cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pregnancy-related steroids are potential negative regulators of B lymphopoiesis

B lymphopoiesis is selectively suppressed in normal pregnant mice, suggesting that fluctuations in systemic hormone levels might influence local events within bone marrow. This has now been tested by sustained experimental elevation of sex steroids by hormone-containing pellet implants. We found that while numbers of total nucleated cells declined after treatment with estrone, beta-estradiol, or estriol, there was preferential suppression of B-lymphocyte lineage precursors. Progesterone pellets had no effect when used alone, but mice exposed to progesterone were sensitive to several-logarithm lower concentrations of estrogen. Changes in subpopulations of B-lymphocyte lineage cells with hormone pellets were similar to those previously recorded in pregnancy. B-lymphocyte lineage precursors in male and female mice were sensitive to these sex hormones. Acute treatment with single injections of water-soluble beta-estradiol allowed temporal effects on B-lineage cells to be documented. With this protocol, total numbers of nucleated cells and myeloid progenitor cells remained unchanged. Interleukin 7-responsive precursors dramatically declined within 1 day of injection, suggesting that estrogen influences that stage in the B-lymphocyte lineage. There was a subsequent sharp drop in small pre-B cells 4 days after this transient elevation in estrogen. These experiments demonstrate that B lymphopoiesis is sensitive to negative regulation by sex steroids. They extend findings made with pregnant animals and parallel previous studies of the thymus. Sex steroids might contribute to control of steady-state lymphopoiesis, and fluctuations in their levels could have implications for human disease.
A sub-threshold voltage ladder rectifier for orthogonal current-reuse neural amplifier

We demonstrate an inductively powered, orthogonal current-reuse multi-channel amplifier for power-efficient neural recording. The power rectifier uses the input swing as a self-synchronous charge pump, making it a fully passive, full-wave ladder rectifier. The rectifier supplies 10.37μW at 1.224V to the multi-channel amplifier, which includes bias generation. The prototype device is fabricated in a TSMC 65nm CMOS process, with an active area of 0.107mm2. The maximum measured power conversion efficiency (PCE) is 16.58% with a 184mV input amplitude.
Synaptogenesis Regulates Axotomy-Induced Activation of c-Jun–Activator Protein-1 Transcription

The activator protein-1 (AP1) transcription complex remains active for long periods after axotomy, but its activity diminishes during target contact. This raises the possibility that the function of this complex is regulated by the synaptic connections. Using Aplysia californica , we found that crushing peripheral nerves in vivo enhanced AP1 binding in the sensory neurons that lasted for weeks and then declined as regeneration was completed. The AP1 complex in Aplysia is a c-Jun homodimer. Its activation, after axotomy, is mediated by Aplysia c-Jun–N-terminal kinase (apJNK), which enters the nucleus of sensory neurons and phosphorylates c-Jun at Ser-73 (p73-c-Jun). Active AP1 in the sensory neurons did not mediate apoptosis and was not involved in the appearance of the long-term hyperexcitability that develops in these cells after axotomy, and blocking the activation of apJNK in vitro did not influence neurite outgrowth. In contrast, the levels of activated apJNK and p73-c-Jun declined markedly when sensory neurons formed synapses with motor neuron L7 in vitro . Furthermore, inhibiting the pathway accelerated synaptogenesis between sensory neurons and L7. These data suggest that positive and negative modulation of the JNK–c-Jun–AP1 pathway functions in alerting the nucleus to the loss and gain of synapses, respectively.
Inverted pendulum systems: rotary and arm-driven: a mechatronic system design case study

The inverted pendulum, a popular mechatronic application, exists in many different forms. The common thread among these systems is to balance a link on end using feedback control. Two challenging inverted pendulum systems are the rotational and arm-driven systems. The system described in this paper can be transformed from the rotational to the arm-driven configuration by replacing the links and setting the base on its side. It was designed and built by students as part of the course Mechatronic System Design at Rensselaer. This paper presents a summary of a mechatronic system design case study for the rotary inverted pendulum system.
Scalar Debye Potentials for Electromagnetic Fields in Spherical Gravity and Spherical Media. I

Modified scalar Debye potentials for electromagnetic (EM) waves in spherical gravity and spherical media are found. These potentials decompose the EM waves into two completely independent electric and magnetic radial modes and achieve scalarization and boundary fitting. Their equations, being different in a vacuum medium from ${{\ensuremath{\Phi}}^{;\ensuremath{\mu}}}_{;\ensuremath{\mu}}=0$ of a scalar field, are reduced to one-dimensional Helmholtz equations under a separability condition, and can have their gravity effect "nullified" by a particular medium. Also the reflection coefficient ${R}_{l}$ for an $l$ spherical wave satisfies a Ricatti equation, and the phase shifts ${\ensuremath{\delta}}_{l}$ and scattering cross sections are related to ${R}_{l}$. For an incident plane EM wave, the nonforward differential scattering cross section is expressed in terms of the ${R}_{l}$ for the case where the medium and/or gravity tapers off slower than ${(\mathrm{radius})}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ and ${R}_{l}$, ${\ensuremath{\delta}}_{l}$ themselves diverge.
REVISION OF FAILED TOTAL SHOULDER ARTHROPLASTY

The complexity of revision shoulder surgery remains a supreme challenge for the experienced shoulder surgeon. The difficulty of surgery is often accompanied by unpredictable patient cooperation during the postoperative rehabilitation program. Recognition of the problems associated with the failed shoulder arthroplasty is necessary for successful revision surgery. Numerous reconstructive techniques are necessary for restoration of soft tissue and bony deficiencies. Component revision is often necessary in treating component loosening or glenohumeral instability. Glenoid component removal may be necessary in the presence of severe rotator cuff insufficiency or marked glenoid bone deficiency. Humeral revision is most predictably treated with methylmethacrylate fixation. Humeral fractures associated with humeral arthroplasty are most successfully treated surgically, except in those instances where a long oblique or spiral fracture is not associated with prosthetic loosening. Deep infection is most predictably treated by extensive debridement, parenteral antibiotics, and delayed exchange of the components. The success of revision shoulder arthroplasty is often unpredictable, with 60% of revisions offering satisfactory pain relief and restoration of function. Critical to the success of revision arthroplasty is the status of the soft tissues, particularly the anterior deltoid and rotator cuff.
Calbindin-D 28K Localization in Rat Molars During Odontogenesis:

Specific antiserum raised against Calbindin-D28 kappa, a vitamin D-dependent calcium-binding protein (CaBP) isolated from chick intestine, was used for localization of the protein in developing rat molars. Previously, CaBP had been localized in specific cells associated with the continuously erupting rat incisor: late pre-secretory ameloblasts, secretory and maturation zone ameloblasts, stratum intermedium cells adjacent to ameloblasts in the late zone of enamel secretion, and papillary cells underlying maturation zone ameloblasts. In this study, the peroxidase anti-peroxidase technique was used for localization of the peroxidase anti-peroxidase technique was used for localization of CaBP in histological sections of rat mandibles from 18-day-old rat embryos through 20-day-old neonates. CaBP was not detected in any cells of the enamel organ, dental papilla, or dental sac during early odontogenesis from the dental lamina stage through the advanced bell stage. The protein first appeared in secretory ameloblasts which were situated opposite odontoblasts with newly secreted dentin. CaBP was present in the cytoplasm of more mature ameloblasts, but not in less mature ameloblasts. Some stratum intermedium cells subjacent to well-developed secretory and maturation zone ameloblasts also contained CaBP. The protein was not detected in odontoblasts, pulp cells, or other cells associated with the developing molars. It was also absent from the demineralized enamel and dentin matrix. In developing rat molars, the time-course of appearance of CaBP, a protein dependent for its synthesis on the vitamin D endocrine system in other organ systems, suggests a potential direct role of this hormonal system in enamel mineralization.
Photoconductivity and optical stability of intrinsic μc-Si films formed by remote plasma-enhanced chemical-vapor deposition, remote pecvd

μc-Si deposited by RPECVD is n-type with a room temperature dark conductivity of ∼6×10 −4 S/cm and an activation energy of ∼0.3 eV, due to native donor-like defects . We report conductivity and photoconductivity in B-doped μc-Si, emphasizing doping levels that are used to exactly compensate the native defects, and produce a high resistivity, highly photoconductive form of μc-Si.
Timing of definitive treatment of femoral shaft fractures in patients with multiple injuries: a systematic review of randomized and nonrandomized trials.

Background Optimal timing of definitive treatment of femoral shaft fractures in patients with multiple injuries remains controversial. This study aimed to determine the impact of timing of definitive treatment (early, delayed, or damage-control orthopedics [DCO]) of femoral shaft fractures on the incidence of adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), mortality rate, and hospital length of stay (LOS) in patients with multiple injuries. Methods A systematic review of published English-language reports using MEDLINE (1946-2011), Embase (1947-2011), and Cochrane Library. Search terms included femoral fractures, multiple trauma, fracture fixation, and time factors. This study reviewed randomized and nonrandomized studies that (1) compared early and delayed treatment or early treatment and DCO and (2) reported the incidence of ARDS, mortality rate, or LOS. Extraction of articles was performed by one of the authors using predefined data fields. Results Thirty-eight studies met our inclusion criteria. Studies were grouped into heterogeneous injuries with early versus delayed treatment (17 studies), heterogeneous injuries with early versus DCO (8 studies), head injury (13 studies), and chest injury (7 studies). Most of the studies (≥ 50%) reporting ARDS and mortality rate showed no difference in each of these groups. However, 6 of 7 and 2 of 3 studies reporting LOS in the heterogeneous injuries with early versus delayed and heterogeneous injuries with early versus DCO, respectively, showed shorter stay for early treatment. Pooled analyses were not conducted owing to changes in critical care delivery during the study period and variations in definitions of early treatment, ARDS, and multiple injuries. Thirty-five reports were based on nonrandomized trials and were subject to biases inherent in retrospective studies. The review process was limited by language and publication status. Conclusion The literature suggests that early definitive treatment may be used safely for most patients with multiple injuries. However, a subgroup of patients with multiple injuries may benefit from DCO [corrected]. Level of evidence Systematic review, level III.
Nanofountain Probes for direct-write nanomanufacturing and in vitro single cell studies

We present a broadly-applicable nanodeposition tool, the Nanofountain Probe, for direct-write fabrication of functional nanostructures using liquid molecular “inks”. Examples of nanopatterning of biomolecules, catalysts for subsequent nanostructure growth, and functional nanoparticle arrays for nanosystems fabrication and single cell studies will be presented. Recent developments in the use of the Nanofountain Probe as an in vitro single cell injection tool are also discussed.
The contact problem of two coaxial cylindrical shells

Abstract The contact problem of two coaxial cylindrical shells is investigated. A shear deformation theory is used in setting up the governing differential equations. The inner shell is subjected to a constant pressure, and a prescribed initial separation between the inner and outer shells is allowed. Subsequently, the redistribution of tractions and the nature of variation of contact pressure are discussed for different shell parameters and boundary conditions. A possible limitation of the shear deformation theory is discussed.
Total sulfur amino acid requirement and cysteine replacement value for juvenile hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis × M. chrysops)

Abstract Graded levels of l -methionine and l -cysteine were fed to juvenile hybrid striped bass ( Morone saxatilis × M. chrysops ) to determine the requirement for total sulfur amino acids and the ability of cysteine to spare the requirement. Reproducible mortality occurred in fish fed 0.4% sulfur amino acids (0.37% methionine + 0.03% cysteine), but not in other treatment groups in the same experimental system. Based on weight gain, feed efficiency, and serum methionine concentrations, the minimum requirement appeared to be between 0.68 and 0.73% of the dry diet. Dietary cysteine spared up to 40% of the total sulfur amino acid requirement. Histopathological evaluations did not reveal the causes of mortality in fish fed 0.4% sulfur amino acids. This requirement estimate is on the low end of the established ranges for fish. The ability of cysteine to spare the sulfur amino acid requirement is similar to other fish.
Experimental investigation of heat transfer at an air-Earth interface

This paper is concerned with the instrumentation for, and the results from, an experimental investigation of heat transfer over a smooth dry-lake. The original data are on file in the Department of Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles. Heat-transfer rates into the ground were measured with thermopile heat meters; the net radiant exchange at the Earth's surface was measured with a net exchange radiometer. A continuous 48-hour record of these quantities, together with vertical convective heat-transfer rates determined from heat balances at the surface, is presented. Unit convective conductances (heat-transfer coefficient's) are calculated from the convective transfer rates and differences between the surface temperature and the air temperature at a height of two meters. An empirical expression for the convective conductance, which agrees within ten per cent with the experimentally determined values, is presented. A series of small thermocouples was used to measure the air-temperature distribution very close to the surface. Vertical convective heat-transfer rates calculated from these measured temperature gradients compare favorably with those from the heat balances. These measurements indicate the probable existence of a laminar sublayer, though further data are necessary for conclusive affirmation.
Integrin-mediated signalling through the MAP-kinase pathway

The mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase cascade, leading to extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK) activation, is a key regulator of cell growth and proliferation. The effects of ERK are mediated by differences in ERK signalling dynamics, including magnitude and duration. In vivo, ERK signalling is stimulated by both growth factors and adhesion signals. A model for adhesion-mediated ERK activation is presented. Outputs of the model such as ERK and FAK activation, as well as responses to different ligand densities, are compared with published experimental data. The model then serves as a basis for understanding how adhesion may contribute to ERK signalling through changes in the dynamics of focal adhesion kinase activation. The main parameters influencing ERK are determined through screening analyses and parameter variation. With these parameters, key points in the pathway that give rise to changes in downstream signalling dynamics are identified. In particular, oncogenic Raf and Ras promote cell growth by increasing the magnitude and duration, respectively, of ERK activity.
PCB 126 and Other Dioxin-Like PCBs Specifically Suppress Hepatic PEPCK Expression via the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor

Dioxins and dioxin-like compounds encompass a group of structurally related heterocyclic compounds that bind to and activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). The prototypical dioxin is 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a highly toxic industrial byproduct that incites numerous adverse physiological effects. Global commercial production of the structurally similar polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), however, commenced early in the 20(th) century and continued for decades; dioxin-like PCBs therefore contribute significantly to total dioxin-associated toxicity. In this study, PCB 126, the most potent dioxin-like PCB, was evaluated with respect to its direct effects on hepatic glucose metabolism using primary mouse hepatocytes. Overnight treatment with PCB 126 reduced hepatic glycogen stores in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, PCB 126 suppressed forskolin-stimulated gluconeogenesis from lactate. These effects were independent of acute toxicity, as PCB 126 did not increase lactate dehydrogenase release nor affect lipid metabolism or total intracellular ATP. Interestingly, provision of cells with glycerol instead of lactate as the carbon source completely restored hepatic glucose production, indicating specific impairment in the distal arm of gluconeogenesis. In concordance with this finding, PCB 126 blunted the forskolin-stimulated increase in phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) mRNA levels without affecting glucose-6-phosphatase expression. Myricetin, a putative competitive AhR antagonist, reversed the suppression of PEPCK induction by PCB 126. Furthermore, other dioxin-like PCBs demonstrated similar effects on PEPCK expression in parallel with their ability to activate AhR. It therefore appears that AhR activation mediates the suppression of PEPCK expression by dioxin-like PCBs, suggesting a role for these pollutants as disruptors of energy metabolism.
The Response of Glaciers and Ice-Sheets to Seasonal and Climatic Changes

A glacier is treated as an essentially one-dimensional flow system, which is, continuously along its length, either gaining new material by snowfall or losing it by melting and evaporation. The flow at each point, i. e. the volume passing a given point per unit time, is assumed to be a function of the thickness and surface slope. It is then shown that a region of uniform longitudinal compressive strain-rate is temporarily unstable. Lighthill & Whitham’s theory of kinematic waves is applied to study the response of a simple model to a sudden change in rate of accumulation (snowfall). All parts of the glacier thicken, but the lower parts thicken unstably until a kinematic wave arrives to restore stability. The thickening of the lower parts, and the advance of the glacier, can be very great for only a small change in accumulation; the analysis thus explains why glaciers are such sensitive indicators of climate. The velocity and diffusion of kinematic waves is discussed; they travel at 2 to 5 times the surface speed of the ice. Any part of a glacier or ice-sheet has a characteristic response time to changes in accumulation—about 5000 yr for the Antarctic ice-sheet as a whole, and 3 to 30 yr for a typical glacier. The amplitude and phase of the response of a simple glacier to high frequency (seasonal) and low-frequency (climatic) periodic changes in accumulation is calculated. (The periodic changes in accumulation are the Fourier components of the complicated variation that actually occurs.) The upper part behaves in a simple way; the lower part, on the other hand, shows not only a direct response, but also a delayed response due to the arrival of kinematic waves from the upper part. The two components interfere and give wide scope for variation in behaviour from one glacier to another. A further instability, discussed by Bodvarsson, which arises from an increase of accumulation with altitude, is included in the theory. It is also shown how the theory is to be applied in a valley of changing width to calculate the development of any disturbance produced by climatic change. Thus the theory enables one to calculate, in principle, the response of any glacier to any climatic change.
Daily rhythms in tryptophan and serotonin content in mouse brain: the apparent independence of these parameters from daily changes in food intake and from plasma tryptophan content.

Abstract AJAX mice were given food for only 4 hours daily between 1000 and 1400 during the light phase of a 12:12 LD lighting regime (lights on 0900–2100). Control mice were given food ad libitum . These mice normally consume nearly 80 per cent of their food during the dark phase (2100-0900). The daily peak in plasma tryptophan content was correlated with the time of greater food consumption in both control and experimental animals. The daily rhythms in tryptophan and serotonin content in the brains of the experimental mice did not differ appreciably from similar rhythms in control mice. Some decrease in brain serotonin content was observed in the experimental mice but at only certain hours of the day. These results suggest that the daily rhythms in tryptophan and serotonin content in the mouse brain may be relatively independent of daily variations in food intake or plasma tryptophan content. A close correlation between the phasing of the daily rhythms in brain tryptophan and serotonin in both the experimental and control animals suggests an important interrelationship between these 2 parameters.
The dosimetric effect of inhomogeneity correction in dynamic conformal arc stereotactic body radiation therapy for lung tumors.

ABSTRACT: For patients treated with lung stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) using dynamic conformal arcs, the influence of inhomogeneity correction (IC) on normal tissue and tumor dosimetry was studied. For the same numbers of monitor units, the planning target volume equivalent uniform doses calculated without path-length IC were lower than those calculated with IC (mean difference 18%, range 1-34%; p < 0.0001). Normal lung dose differences were of the same magnitude in opposite direction. In reports of SBRT, it will be helpful to maintain clear communication about the type of IC used to avoid future uncertainties about true normal tissue tolerance and tumor dose-response relationships.
Reactions of alkoxysilanes on metal oxide surfaces: decomposition of tetraethoxysilane on MgO(100) and Al2O3(0001)

Abstract The thermal decomposition of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) on MgO(100) and Al 2 O 3 (0001) surfaces was investigated using temperature-programmed desorption (TPD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and high-resolution electron energy-loss spectroscopy (HREELS). TEOS was found to dissociate on both MgO(100) and Al 2 O 3 (0001) to form ethoxysilane species, Si(OCH 2 CH 3 ) n , n =2, 3. The ethoxysilanes are stable to a temperature of 600 K at which point they decompose, liberating ethanol, ethylene and ethyl radicals and depositing SiO 2 .
Multipath Routing Techniques in Wireless Sensor Networks: A Survey

Multipath routing is an efficient technique to route data in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) because it can provide reliability, security and load balance, which are especially critical in the resource constrained system such as WSNs. In this paper we provide a survey of the state-of-the-art of proposed multipath routing protocols for WSNs, which are classified into three categories, infrastructure based, non-infrastructure based and coding based, based on the special techniques used in building multiple paths and delivering sensing data. For each category, we study the design of protocols, analyze the tradeoff of each design, and overview several representing protocols. In addition, we give a summery of design goals, challenges, and evaluation metrics for multipath routing protocols in resource constrained systems in general.
A New Discrete Exponential Family of Distributions: Properties and Application to Power Series Distributions

SYNOPTIC ABSTRACTThis paper introduces a discrete exponential family distribution which includes the important classes of series distributions - generalized power series distributions, modified power series distributions, and power series distributions associated with the Lagrange expansion. This provides a unified approach for the study of these three classes of power series distributions. After discussing moments, recurrsion relations, and maximum likelihood estimation for the discrete exponential family, the results are applied to certain well-known discrete distributions like the generalized Poisson, negative binomial and logarithmic series distributions, and the lost games distribution. A new discrete distribution termed linear function binomial distribution is introduced and its properties studied.
Intraoperative Ultrasound and Tissue Elastography Measurements Do Not Predict the Size of Hepatic Microwave Ablations

Rationale and Objectives Image-guided thermal ablation is used to treat primary and secondary liver cancers. Evaluating completeness of ablation is difficult with standard intraoperative B-mode ultrasound. This study evaluates the ability of B-mode ultrasound (US) and tissue elastography to adequately measure the extent of ablation compared to pathologic assessment. Materials and Methods An in vivo porcine model was used to compare B-mode ultrasonography and elastography to pathologic assessment of the microwave ablation zone area. In parallel, intraoperative ablations in patients were used to assess the ability of B-mode US and elastographic measures of tissue strain immediately after ablation to predict ablation size, compared to postprocedural computed tomography (CT). Results In the animal model, ablation zones appeared to decrease in size when monitored with ultrasound over a 10-minute span with both B-mode US and elastography. Both techniques estimated smaller zones than gross pathology, however, the differences did not reach statistical significance. Biopsies from the edges of the ablation zone, as assessed by US, contained viable tissue in 75% of the cases. In the human model, B-mode US and elastography estimated similar ablation sizes; however, they underestimate the final size of the ablation defect as measured on postprocedure CT scan (median area [interquartile range]: CT, 7.3 cm 2 [5.2–9.5] vs. US 3.6 cm 2 [1.7–6.3] and elastography 4.1 cm 2 [1.4–5.1]; P = .005). Conclusions Ultrasound and elastography provide an accurate gross estimation of ablation zone size but are unable to predict the degree of cellular injury and significantly underestimate the ultimate size of the ablation
Regulation of hepcidin and ferroportin expression by lipopolysaccharide in splenic macrophages

Acute and chronic inflammatory states are associated with many changes in intracellular iron metabolism including sequestration of iron in the mononuclear-phagocyte system (MPS) and a decline in serum iron. Previous work in rodent models of acute inflammation has demonstrated inflammation-induced downregulation of intestinal and MPS iron exporter, ferroportin 1, mRNA and protein. In addition, these models have also demonstrated hepatic induction of mRNA of the small 25 amino acid peptide hepcidin. Hepcidin has been hypothesized to be the mediator of iron- and inflammation-induced changes in iron metabolism. The molecular details of the connection between iron metabolism, hepcidin and inflammation have become clearer with the recent finding of hepcidin-induced internalization and degradation of FPN1. The work presented here demonstrates that the lipopolysaccharide-induced splenic macrophage FPN1 mRNA downregulation is not dependent upon the action of a single cytokine such as IL-6, IL-1 or TNF-alpha because mice deficient in these pathways downregulate FPN1 normally. Furthermore, hepcidin is also synthesized in the spleen of normal mice and induced by lipopolysaccharide. Additionally, in vitro, splenic adherent cells produce hepcidin in response to lipopolysaccharide in an IL-6-dependent manner. There appear to be both probable transcriptional and post-transcriptional control of FPN1 expression by lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation. The former effect is on mRNA expression and is independent of hepcidin, whereas the latter is IL-6- and hepcidin-dependent.
Application of spatial frequency response as a criterion for evaluating thermal imaging camera performance

Police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel are examples of first responders that are utilizing thermal imaging cameras in a very practical way every day. However, few performance metrics have been developed to assist first responders in evaluating the performance of thermal imaging technology. This paper describes one possible metric for evaluating spatial resolution using an application of Spatial Frequency Response (SFR) calculations for thermal imaging. According to ISO 12233, the SFR is defined as the integrated area below the Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) curve derived from the discrete Fourier transform of a camera image representing a knife-edge target. This concept is modified slightly for use as a quantitative analysis of the camera's performance by integrating the area between the MTF curve and the camera's characteristic nonuniformity, or noise floor, determined at room temperature. The resulting value, which is termed the Effective SFR, can then be compared with a spatial resolution value obtained from human perception testing of task specific situations to determine the acceptability of the performance of thermal imaging cameras. The testing procedures described herein are being developed as part of a suite of tests for possible inclusion into a performance standard on thermal imaging cameras for first responders.
Dissections into 1:2 rectangles

Abstract Suppose a square or a 1:2 rectangle is dissected into 1:2 rectangular elements of different sizes. What orders (i.e., numbers of elements) are possible? We show: There are dissections of squares of all orders ⩾ 9. There are dissections of 1: 2 rectangles of all orders ⩾ 8. There are no dissections of smaller order.
Under-reporting of alcohol and substance use versus other psychiatric symptoms in individuals living with HIV

Substance use is known to negatively impact outcomes in patients living with HIV by decreasing adherence to and effectiveness of antiretroviral therapies. Alcohol and other drug abuse and dependence are widespread among HIV-positive individuals, though reported rates vary greatly by study, suggesting the possibility of under-reporting. The extent to which patients minimize symptoms and the factors that influence reporting remain to be determined. The present study sought to gauge the degree to which substance use is under-reported in a primary care HIV clinic by evaluating the influence of anonymity versus confidentiality of self-report on endorsement rates. Patients (n = 55) currently receiving medical treatment completed a confidential questionnaire assessing the presence of alcohol abuse, other drug misuse, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Another group of 55 patients completed a comparable survey, but did so anonymously. The two groups were similar in terms of demographic characteristics, but self-report of substance use differed depending on how symptoms were assessed, with anonymous questionnaires yielding significantly (p<0.05) higher rates, compared to confidential surveys. Under-reporting appeared specific to alcohol and substance use, with no statistically significant differences between anonymous and confidential surveys in the proportion of patients endorsing symptoms of GAD. The fact that the screener specifically designed to identify patients in need of further evaluation produced lower rates of reported alcohol and drug use suggests that more work is needed to identify appropriate tools for accurately assessing substance use in HIV-positive patients so that adequate referrals and services can be offered to those in need.
An equivalent generator representation of measured intracavitary potentials

The objective of this study was to determine the accuracy of an equivalent generator model in representing measured intracavitary potentials. A cylindrical probe (45 × 10 mm) was placed in the left ventricular cavity of six canines. Potentials were recorded from 40 unipolar electrodes evenly dispersed on the probe's surface. For a given intracavitary potential distribution, an iterative procedure was developed to calculate the optimum location of the equivalent source generator based on a moving dipole-moving quadrupole model. The results indicated that dipole terms alone account for approximately 76% and 59% of the measured intracavitary potentials at the midpoint of the QRS complex and at the midpoint ST-T segment, respectively. With the addition of the quadrupole terms, the accuracy increases to 97% and 88%, respectively. Despite the fact that an equivalent generator model is not a physiologic representation but rather a mathematical representation of electrical sources, the results indicate that a high degree of accuracy is obtainable. Thus, this method of representing intracavitary potential distributions could provide important diagnostic information to physicians and scientists.
Physical bases of the electrohysterogram.

INTERPRETATION of the electrical activity associated with the uterine contractions of labour has been beset with many difficulties. For the most part, the studies have concentrated on certain fast components1, and did not readily lend themselves to physiological interpretation. In this laboratory a uterine electrical complex bearing a one-to-one relationship to the uterine contractions of labour has been demonstrated, and the techniques described2.
Seasonal drift and feeding periodicity during summer of the amphipod, Gammarus psuedolimnaeus

Downstream drift of aquatic invertebrates is an important ecological process that varies temporally. Seasonal patterns of diel drift and diel feeding periodicity during summer of the amphipod Gammarus pseudolimnaeus were examined in a small stream in central New York. Seasonal trends in drift were similar with peak drift occurring from 2000 to 0400 h. Very little drift occurred during the day. Feeding intensity of G. pseudolimnaeus was greatest from 2000 to 0400 h and was significantly greater than at 0400 to 0800 h and 0800 to 1200 h. Previous research on feeding periodicity of this species found no evidence of periods of increased food consumption. Conflicting results between this study and earlier studies may be due to sampling drifting versus non-drifting amphipods.
BET Protein Antagonist JQ1 Is Synergistically Lethal with FLT3 Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) and Overcomes Resistance to FLT3-TKI in AML Cells Expressing FLT-ITD

Recently, treatment with BET (bromodomain and extraterminal) protein antagonist (BA) such as JQ1 has been shown to inhibit growth and induce apoptosis of human AML cells, including those expressing FLT3-ITD. Here, we demonstrate that co-treatment with JQ1 and the FLT3 tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) ponatinib or AC220 synergistically induce apoptosis of cultured and primary CD34+ human AML blast progenitor cells (BPCs) expressing FLT3-ITD. Concomitantly, as compared to each agent alone, co-treatment with JQ1 and the FLT3-TKI caused greater attenuation of c-MYC, BCL2 and CDK4/6. Simultaneously, co-treatment with JQ1 and the FLT3-TKI increased the levels of p21, BIM and cleaved PARP, as well as mediated marked attenuation of p-STAT5, p-AKT and p-ERK1/2 levels in AML BPCs. Conversely, co-treatment with JQ1 and FLT3-TKI was significantly less active against CD34+ normal bone marrow progenitor cells. Knockdown of BRD4 by shRNA also sensitized AML cells to FLT3-TKI. JQ1 treatment induced apoptosis of mouse Ba/F3 cells ectopically expressing FLT3-ITD with or without FLT3-TKI resistant mutations F691L and D835V. Compared to the parental human AML FLT3-ITD-expressing MOLM13, MOLM13-TKIR cells resistant to AC220 were markedly more sensitive to JQ1-induced apoptosis. Further, co-treatment with JQ1 and the pan-histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDI) panobinostat synergistically induced apoptosis of FLT3-TKI resistant MOLM13-TKIR and MV4-11-TKIR cells. Collectively, these findings support the rationale for determining the in vivo activity of combined therapy with BA and FLT3-TKI against human AML cells expressing FLT3-ITD or with BA and HDI against AML cells resistant to FLT3-TKI.
Consumption demand of juvenile pink salmon in Prince William Sound and the coastal Gulf of Alaska in relation to prey biomass

Abstract Prince William Sound hatcheries release over 600 million pink salmon ( Oncorhynchus gorbuscha ) fry each year. The effect of the additional consumption demand by hatchery fish on prey biomass in Prince William Sound and the coastal Gulf of Alaska is unknown. The objectives of this study were to: (1) use bioenergetics models to compare spatial and temporal variation in the consumption demand and growth efficiency of hatchery and wild juvenile pink salmon in Prince William Sound and the coastal Gulf of Alaska between May and October 2001; and (2) compare localized population-level consumption in each region to the standing stock biomass of coexisting prey. In order to achieve observed growth, juvenile pink salmon consumed at 64–107% of their theoretical maximum consumption rate. Individual juvenile pink salmon consumed an average of 366.5 g of prey from marine entry through October of their first growing season. Growth efficiency ranged from 18.9% to 33.8% over the model simulation period. Juvenile salmon that migrated to the Gulf of Alaska grew more efficiently than those that remained in Prince William Sound until August, but after August juvenile salmon in Prince William Sound grew more efficiently than those in the Gulf of Alaska due to differences in prey quality between regions. Temperatures did not vary much between regions; thus differences in the thermal experience of juvenile pink salmon did not affect growth, consumption, and growth efficiency as much as the effects of different prey quality. Consumption demand by juvenile pink salmon exceeded the average standing stock biomass of key prey (large copepods, pteropods, hyperiid amphipods, and larvaceans) during some months. Our results are consistent with advection and production of these prey replenishing the forage base, or the reliance of individual pink salmon on high-density prey patches that occur at finer temporal scales than we were capable of sampling.
Ellen Stewart: La Mama of Us All

Since 1961, theatre producer and director Ellen Stewart, aka La Mama, has supported and presented hundreds of performing artists. What, finally, is the "whole" story, the Ellen Stewart and La Mama Experimental Theatre Club we never knew? This is the first major overview of the work of the legendary Off-Off-Broadway matriarch and the companies and theatres that share her name.
Soap-based detergent formulations: XX. The physical and chemical nature of lime soap dispersions

Blends of soap and surfactants that possess good lime soap dispersing properties were dispersed in hard water. The turbidity of such dispersions varied depending on the type of dispersant used and also on the soap:dispersant ratio. Differences in coarseness of various dispersions could be measured empirically by filtration through a membrane of intermediate (1.2 µm) porosity. For determinations of the chemical composition of the dispersions a somewhat finer membrane (0.8 µm or less) was chosen, which retained most of the dispersed solids. Filter residues and filtrates were analyzed for sodium, calcium, magnesium and lime soap dispersing agents (LSDA). All of the calcium remained on the filter, whereas sodium was found primarily in the filtrate. Magnesium was held completely on the filter only if sufficient soap was present to tie up all Ca++ and Mg++. Analysis of the organic portion of the residues indicated that the soap:LSDA ratio found was the same as that used in the preparation of the original dispersion. On filtration through a fine membrane (0.05 µm) virtually all dispersed material was retained on the membrane. The filtrate possessed only slight activity in terms of surface tension and detergency, whereas the resuspended solids possessed high surface activity similar to the unfiltered dispersion. This indicates that the dispersed solids are the major source of surface activity.
Analysis of the Fourier transform and diode laser spectra of the ν3 fundamental of PuF6

Abstract A detailed analysis of the ν 3 band of PuF 6 is presented. The P , Q , and R branches of the fundamental transition and of several hot bands have been observed for a cooled gas sample of PuF 6 at very low pressure in a long path length cell. Both a Fourier transform spectrometer (resolution 6 × 10 −3 cm −1 ) and a diode laser (resolution 4 × 10 −4 cm −1 ) have been used. Wavenumbers of the rotational transitions, measured on the diode spectra, have led to accurate values for the band origin and the rotational line spacing constant. Octahedral fine-structure manifolds in the P and R branches, for low to moderate values of J , have yielded a value of the splitting parameter. However, in the high- J manifolds and throughout the entire Q branch, the fine structure deviates substantially from theory. These discrepancies are apparently the result of accidental resonances with rotational levels of one or two neighboring vibrational states.
Urban-change detection systems: Remote-sensing inputs

Abstract This paper explores the application of remote-sensing technology to provide inputs to systems for urban-change detection and as such focuses primarily on the urban data user environment. Urban-change detection refers to the general problem of monitoring the urban system and discerning changes that are occurring within that system that are of use to urban planners, managers, and researchers. Conventional aerial photography and, more recently, color-infrared imagery have proved extremely useful in providing inventories of changes in various urban subsystems at more frequent time intervals than conventionally collected data. The problem addressed here is to integrate remote-sensing data with conventionally collected data in a system that describes and reports urban change. As research continues into the utility of remote sensing for the acquisition of data concerning specific urban phenomenon an increasing proportion of the data requirements of urban-change detection systems can be supplied by remote-sensing technology. However, the cost parameters related to these elements in some cases are unknown. Remote-sensing technology must be considered within the context of user needs, which determines the appropriate imagery scale, size of aerial unit of obsevation, any necessary classification schemes, and the need for appropriate data items. This paper attempts to define the general environment which remote-sensing data inputs in an urban context must operate. In the final analysis the utility of remote sensing in this area rests on stark economic conditions in the trade-off between costs and data-delivery-time requirements.
Seismic Reliability Assessment of Bridges with User-Defined System Failure Events

Bridge-level failure event definitions per limit state have evolved from failure of one key bridge component as representative of the whole bridge system to failure of at least one of multiple components. However, an entire set of bridge failure event possibilities exists between these two extremes in the same limit state, such as failure of any two, any three, or any desired subset of bridge components. This paper proposes a closed-form combinatorial method to evaluate all possible ways in which bridge components can fail within and across limit states. It also highlights bridge component importance measures as key by-products of the closed-form solution. Calculations are illustrated with a particular yet illustrative system failure event, called the augmented event, which incorporates failures of at least one component in a given limit state and joint failures of multiple important components in a previous limit state. Bridges in as-built and retrofitted conditions are used to illustrate the augmentation calculation under seismic loads and the application of the proposed system reliability method. The results reveal an increase in median system fragility at the moderate limit states in the range of 4–20% relative to traditional approaches that neglect augmentation. This methodology to connect bridge components to bridge system reliability can readily support infrastructure stakeholder decision making and risk management through an efficient approach that can adapt to evolving system failure event definitions.
Mindful Attention and Awareness Predict Self-Reported Food Safety Practices in the Food Service Industry

We examine relationships between dispositional mindfulness, food safety knowledge, and self-reported food safety practices in the food service industry. Mindfulness refers to the state of being attentive to and aware of what is taking place in the present. Mindfulness is relevant to food service work because employees often work in hectic environments that can detract attention and awareness away from threats to food safety and protocols that help manage such threats. Food service workers (N = 428) from a wide variety of establishments were surveyed to gather their dispositional mindfulness as well as food safety knowledge and practices. Analyses reveal that mindfulness explains variance in self-reported food safety practices beyond that of food safety knowledge, with stronger relationships for workers having lower levels of food safety knowledge. Implications are considered within the context of an emerging literature that emphasizes the relationship between psychological constructs and food safety practices.
Release of vasopressin by the fetal lamb during premature parturition induced with corticotropin.

Release of Vasopressin by the Fetal Lamb during Premature Parturition Induced with Corticotropin
In vivo near-infrared spectral detection of pressure-induced changes in breast tissue

A diffuse near-infrared tomography system was used to measure dynamic changes in the absolute optical properties of the human breast that were induced through pressure applied to the tissue surface. Results from five subjects show that absorption and scattering coefficients changed measurably when pressure was increased and that these relative changes correlated with the subjects' body-mass index, indicating that the effect depends on tissue composition. Fitting the absolute absorption and scattering coefficients at six wavelengths to the molar absorption spectra of the three predominant chromophores revealed that both the average total hemoglobin and oxygen saturation increased by 10%, while water concentration decreased by more than 12%. These changes indicate that the pressure-induced variation is likely due to water displacement and vascular volume increase in the region being imaged, for mild application of pressure to the breast. These results suggest that the pressure applied during optical measurements of tissue may alter the tissue physiology, and care should be taken to factor this effect into the design of optical medical instrumentation. In addition, the technique provides a unique approach to measuring tissue elastic changes in vivo in the female breast and may offer a new method for dynamic contrast imaging based on elasto-optical measurements.