cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deposition of diamond onto aluminum by electron cyclotron resonance microwave plasma-assisted CVD

Diamond crystallites and thin films have been deposited onto polycrystalline aluminum substrates utilizing an electron cyclotron resonance microwave plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition (ECR-PACVD) method. For all depositions, the substrates were biased to +40 V dc with respect to ground and their temperature was maintained at 500 °C. Similar deposits were obtained from two different feedgas systems at a total pressure of 1.33 Pa (10 mTorr). The first system consisted of a carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2) mixture (CO:H2 = 20:80), and the second was a methane (CH4), oxygen (O2), and hydrogen (H2) mixture (CH4:O2:H2 = 21:10:69). The deposits were subsequently characterized by scanning electron microscopy, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and x-ray diffraction. The results of these analyses indicate that polycrystalline diamond was deposited onto aluminum substrates, as both individual crystallites and continuous films.
A MODEL FOR SWITCHING DISPATCHING RULES IN REAL TIME IN A FLEXIBLE MANUFACTURING CELL

We model choice of dispatching rules in real time (system state dependent) as a pattern rec- ognition problem, using a modified version of Data Envelopment Analysis. A data base of system state and performance values is created from extensive simulation, and this data base is used to train the pattern-recognition model. Our results show that the model is very effective in choosing a mix of dispatching rules over a period of time, varying the mix with system objectives, and performing better than the strategy of using fixed rules. We show how “If-Then” decision rules can be created from the model and portrayed in a decision-tree-like diagram. Since such decision rules are based on rigorous mathematical foundations, optimization will be ensured in our ap- proach. (DYNAMIC RULE SELECTION; PATTERN RECOGNITION; DEA POSTULATES; NESTED RULES; SIMULATION; DECISION TREE; SYSTEM OPTIMIZATION)
Electrical and structural characterization of silicon ribbons produced through capillary action shaping

Abstract Silicon ribbons grown as wide as 50 mm by the Capillary Action Shaping Technique (CAST) are classified according to perfection and electrical performance. The defect state in the crystal is correlated with minority carrier lifetime and related to solar cell efficiency. Four crystal quality groups are established for CAST ribbons. In these groups solar cell efficiency decreases from 5–8% in class I to less than 1% in class IV. Such degradation in solar cell efficiency is caused by dislocations (I) high order twin boundaries (II), low angle grain boundaries (III) and, silicon carbide dendrites (IV). The electrical activity of such defects varies from low activity to strong activity. Solar cell efficiency depends on the number of “electrically active defects” and not on the total defect content of the ribbon.
A traffic for MPEG-coded VBR streams

Compression of digital video is the only viable means to transport real-time full-motion video over BISDN/ATM networks. Traffic streams generated by video compressors exhibit complicated patterns which vary from one compression scheme to another. In this paper we investigate the traffic characteristics of video streams which are compressed based on the MPEG standard. Our study is based on 23 minutes of video obtained from an entertainment movie. A particular significance of our data is that it contains all types of coded frames, namely: Intra-coded (I), Prediction (P), and Bidirectional (B) MPEG frames. We describe the statistical behavior of the VBR stream using histograms and autocorrelation functions. A procedure is developed to determine the instants of a scene change based on the changes in the size of successive I frames. It is found that the length of a scene can be modeled by a geometric distribution.A model for an MPEG traffic source is developed in which frames are generated according to the compression pattern of the captured video stream. For each frame type, the number of cells per frame is fitted by a lognormal distribution whose parameters are determined by the frame type. The appropriateness and limitations of the model are examined by studying the multiplexing performance of MPEG streams. Simulations of an ATM multiplexer are conducted, in which traffic sources are derived from the measured VBR trace as well as the proposed model. The queueing performance in both cases is found to be relatively close.
Characteristics of a Non-Treatment Sample of Heavy Cocaine Users Volunteering for Studies Involving Cocaine Administration in Baltimore (Usa)

Demographic data and drug-use histories were collected from 191 non-treatment seeking applicants, obtained via chain referral, to research projects involving cocaine administration. The typical applicant was an unemployed, single, African-American male, 34 years of age with 11 years of education and a history of incarceration. Applicants reported using i.v. and smoked cocaine alone, and in combination with heroin (72%), marijuana (47%), alcohol (58%) and tobacco cigarettes (86%). Most applicants (79%) preferred i.v. cocaine, with 15% preferring smoked cocaine. Applicants reported spending $327/wk on cocaine and $184/wk on heroin. Seventy-seven percent of applicants reported having been arrested, with those who went to jail reporting an average jail-time of 29 months. Eighty-five percent of applicants were unemployed and 32% gave no address. Although most applicants (75%) received medical care, mostly in emergency rooms, in the past year, the majority (75%) had never received any treatment for their drug a...
Spectroscopic ellipsometry and reflectometry from gratings (Scatterometry) for critical dimension measurement and in situ, real-time process monitoring

Abstract Spectroscopic, specular reflected light measurements (both ellipsometry-SE, and reflectometry-SR) of grating structures have relatively and recently been shown to yield very accurate information on the critical dimensions, wall-angles and detailed wall shape of deep submicron features. The technique is often called ‘scatterometry’ or optical critical dimension (OCD) measurement. This technique has been moved rapidly from initial demonstrations to significant industrial application. In this paper, we will review the development of this technique and ex situ applications. When applied in situ, this technique opens up exciting new opportunities for studying the evolution of topography in semiconductor fabrication processes and for applying real-time control methods for nanometer level feature size accuracy. We will briefly comment on limitations and challenges for this measurement technique.
The effect of tetrahydrofuran as solvent on matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization and electrospray ionization mass spectra of functional polystyrenes.

It is demonstrated that tetrahydrofuran (THF) should be used with caution as a solvent in polymer sample preparation for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) analyses. The presence of peroxides in THF may cause the oxidation of chemically active groups. This effect is illustrated in the case of S-containing polystyrene derivatives. The oxidation of the trithiocarbonate group resulted in the formation of poly(styrene)sulfonic acids, R(CH 2 CHPh) n SO 3 H, which was detected in negative mode by MALDI and electrospray ionization (ESI) methods after the samples remained in THF for several hours.
Bayesian inference in auditory scenes

The cocktail party problem is a multi-faceted challenge which encompasses various aspects of auditory perception. Its processes underlie the brain's ability to detect, identify and classify sound objects; to robustly represent and maintain speech intelligibility amidst severe distortions; and to guide actions and behaviors in line with complex goals and shifting acoustic soundscapes. Here, we present a perspective that considers the powerful Bayesian inference as a unifying framework to integrate the role of sensory cues as well as stimulus-driven priors and top-down schemas including attention.
Necropsy Findings and Environmental Contaminants in Common Loons from New York

Diagnostic and analytical findings are presented for 105 common loons (Gavia immer) found dead or debilitated in New York (USA) from 1972–99. Aspergillosis (23% of cases) and ingestion of lead fishing weights (21%) were the most common pathologies encountered. Stranding on land, shooting, other trauma, gill nets, air sacculitis and peritonitis, and emaciation of uncertain etiology accounted for most of the remaining causes of disease or death. Analysis for total mercury in the liver of 83 loons yielded a geometric mean (gm) of 10.3 mg/kg (wet basis) and range of 0.07 to 371 mg/kg, with emaciated birds generally showing higher levels. Organochlorine contaminant levels in brain were generally low, principally consisting of PCB's (gm = 2.02 mg/kg) and DDE (0.47 mg/kg).
3-D Object Identification using 2-D Projections

A three-dimensional object identification methodology based on rigid geometrical constraints and cross-correlation is discussed, and experimental results are given. Comparable results from a nearest-neighbor classifier using simple feature vectors extracted from the object and model projections are also given. Comments concerning advantages of model-driven recognition methodologies are then made.
A Wearable Device for Real-Time Motion Error Detection and Vibrotactile Instructional Cuing

We have developed a mobile instrument for motion instruction and correction (MIMIC) that enables an expert (i.e., physical therapist) to map his/her movements to a trainee (i.e., patient) in a hands-free fashion. MIMIC comprises an expert module (EM) and a trainee module (TM). Both the EM and TM are composed of six-degree-of-freedom inertial measurement units, microcontrollers, and batteries. The TM also has an array of actuators that provide the user with vibrotactile instructional cues. The expert wears the EM, and his/her relevant body position is computed by an algorithm based on an extended Kalman filter that provides asymptotic state estimation. The captured expert body motion information is transmitted wirelessly to the trainee, and based on the computed difference between the expert and trainee motion, directional instructions are displayed via vibrotactile stimulation to the skin. The trainee is instructed to move in the direction of the vibration sensation until the vibration is eliminated. Two proof-of-concept studies involving young, healthy subjects were conducted using a simplified version of the MIMIC system (pre-specified target trajectories representing ideal expert movements and only two actuators) during anterior-posterior trunk movements. The first study was designed to investigate the effects of changing the expert-trainee error thresholds (0.5°, 1.0°, and 1.5°) and varying the nature of the control signal (proportional, proportional plus derivative). Expert-subject cross-correlation values were maximized (0.99) and average position errors (0.33°) and time delays (0.2 s) were minimized when the controller used a 0.5° error threshold and proportional plus derivative feedback control signal. The second study used the best performing activation threshold and control signal determined from the first study to investigate subject performance when the motion task complexity and speed were varied. Subject performance decreased as motion speed and complexity increased.
Zygotic Lethal Mutations With Maternal Effect Phenotypes in Drosophila melanogaster . II. Loci on the Second and Third Chromosomes Identified by P -Element-Induced Mutations

Screens for zygotic lethal mutations that are associated with specific maternal effect lethal phenotypes have only been conducted for the Xchromosome. To identify loci on the autosomes, which represent four-fifths of the Drosophila genome, we have used the autosomal “FLP-DFS” technique to screen a collection of 496 Pelement-induced mutations established by the Berkeley Drosophila Genome Project. We have identified 64 new loci whose gene products are required for proper egg formation or normal embryonic development.
Clinical reasoning: a 50-year-old woman with deep stabbing ear pain.

A 50-year-old woman presented with deep ear pain on the right that started 3 days prior. She described the pain as aching with superimposed severe stabbing. This pain was associated with hyperacusis, but she otherwise denied any hearing loss, muffled hearing, tinnitus, diplopia, dysphagia, facial weakness, numbness, or rash. The authors thank John Hagen, Mayo medical illustrator, for creating the figure.
Psychiatric Diagnosis: Lessons from the DSM-IV Past and Cautions for the DSM-5 Future

The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders provides the authoritative list of what are considered to be mental disorders. This list has a tremendous impact on research, funding, and treatment, as well as a variety of civil and forensic decisions. The development of this diagnostic manual is an enormous responsibility. Provided herein are lessons learned during the course of the development of the fourth edition. Noted in particular is the importance of obtaining and publishing critical reviews, restraining the unbridled creativity of experts, conducting field trials that address key issues and concerns, and conducting forthright risk-benefit analyses. It is suggested that future editions of the diagnostic manual be developed under the auspices of the Institute of Medicine. The goal would be broad representation, an evidence-based approach, disinterested recommendations, and a careful attention to the risks and benefits of each suggestion for change to the ...
Number as a cognitive technology: evidence from Pirahã language and cognition.

Does speaking a language without number words change the way speakers of that language perceive exact quantities? The Piraha are an Amazonian tribe who have been previously studied for their limited numerical system [Gordon, P. (2004). Numerical cognition without words: Evidence from Amazonia. Science 306, 496-499]. We show that the Piraha have no linguistic method whatsoever for expressing exact quantity, not even "one." Despite this lack, when retested on the matching tasks used by Gordon, Piraha speakers were able to perform exact matches with large numbers of objects perfectly but, as previously reported, they were inaccurate on matching tasks involving memory. These results suggest that language for exact number is a cultural invention rather than a linguistic universal, and that number words do not change our underlying representations of number but instead are a cognitive technology for keeping track of the cardinality of large sets across time, space, and changes in modality.
Minding the gaps that link intrinsic circadian clock within the heart to its intrinsic ultradian pacemaker clocks. Focus on "The cardiomyocyte molecular clock, regulation of Scn5a, and arrhythmia susceptibility".

### Life Emerges From Functions of a System of Synchronized Clocks A hierarchical system of clocks within cells throughout the body creates and synchronizes rhythmic functions from which life emerges. Biological circadian rhythms, linked to light and darkness in an organism's environment, are
Role of glucose in enhancing the temperature-dependent growth inhibition of Escherichia coli O157:H7 ATCC 43895 by a Pseudomonas sp.

Growth of Escherichia coli O157:H7 strain ATCC 43895 was monitored at 5, 10, 15, and 25°C in both pure and mixed (1:1) cultures with a gluconate-producing Pseudomonas sp. found in meat to evaluate the effect of the absence and presence of 1% glucose in broth on temperature-dependent competition. The number of colonies of the Pseudomonas strain exceeded 9 log CFU/ml under all conditions tested. The pathogen grew better as the temperature increased from 10 to 15 and 25°C and grew better in pure culture than in mixed cultures. Pseudomonas sp. inhibited E. coli O157:H7 in cocultures with glucose at 10°C, while at 15°C the pathogen exhibited a biphasic pattern of growth with an intermediate inactivation period. Pathogen inhibition was much weaker in cocultures grown without glucose at 10 to 15°C and, irrespective of glucose, at 25°C. These results indicate that glucose enhances the growth inhibition of E. coli O157:H7 by some Pseudomonas spp., potentially due to its rapid uptake and conversion to gluconate, at low (≤15°C) temperatures.
Cysteinyl leukotriene interactions with other mediators and with glucocorticosteroids during airway inflammation

Abstract Unexpected aspects of the antiasthmatic efficacy of leukotriene modifiers and glucocorticosteroids have been observed. For both classes, the observed effects may be partially explainable on the basis of underrecognized interactions involving leukotrienes. This review examines the interactions between leukotrienes and other mediators of asthma. It details the effects of glucocorticosteroids on leukotriene synthesis and on leukocyte populations in asthmatic airways. Unexpected controller effects of the leukotriene modifiers may reflect the fact that leukotrienes and other mediators of asthma, such as T H 2 cytokines, positively influence each other's generation. The ability of the leukotriene modifiers to disrupt such extensive interactions means that other relevant mediators are targeted indirectly by leukotriene blockade. Among asthma therapies, the glucocorticosteroids have numerous anti-inflammatory activities, but their effects may be unpredictable. Many processes involved in inflammation appear to escape modulation by glucocorticosteroids, including leukotriene synthesis, and leukotriene generation is among them. Understanding whether glucocorticosteroids reduce cysteinyl leukotriene levels in the airway is important in determining the clinical value of combining glucocorticosteroid therapy with leukotriene modifier therapy. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 2003;111:S37–48.)
Episodes of late Holocene aridity recorded by stalagmites from Devil's Icebox Cave, central Missouri, USA

Two stalagmites from Devil's Icebox Cave, central Missouri, display similar δ13C and δ18O values and trends during the late Holocene. Positive δ13C excursions at 3.5–2.6 ka and 1.2–0.9 ka are interpreted to reflect drier conditions. These elevated stalagmite δ13C values could have plausibly been driven by increasing C4 plant abundances over the cave or an increased contribution of bedrock carbon, both of which could reflect decreased effective moisture. A lack of corresponding oxygen isotopic anomalies during these intervals suggests that neither mean annual temperature nor the seasonality of precipitation changed concomitantly with dryness. Both of the δ13C excursions identified in our stalagmite record are roughly coincident with dry intervals from a number of sites located across the Great Plains.
The female reproductive cycle is an important variable in the response to trauma-hemorrhage

Although immune functions in proestrus females are maintained after hemorrhage as opposed to decreased responses in males, it remains unknown whether such a sexual dimorphism also exists with regard to cardiovascular and hepatocellular functions under those conditions. To study this, male and female (estrus and proestrus) rats underwent a 5-cm midline laparotomy and were bled to and maintained at a mean blood pressure of 40 mmHg until 40% of the maximal bleed-out volume was returned in the form of Ringer lactate (RL). Rats were then resuscitated with four times the shed blood volume with RL. At 24 h thereafter, cardiac index; heart performance; hepatocellular function; and plasma estradiol, testosterone, and prolactin levels were measured. Cardiovascular and hepatocellular functions were depressed in males and estrus females (P < 0.05) but were not depressed in proestrus females after resuscitation. Plasma estradiol and prolactin levels were highest in proestrus females (P < 0.05), whereas males had high testosterone and the lowest estradiol levels (P < 0.05). Thus the female reproductive cycle is an important variable in the response to hemorrhage. Because low testosterone and high estradiol and prolactin levels appear to be beneficial for organ functions after trauma-hemorrhage, antagonism of testosterone receptors and/or increases in estradiol and prolactin levels in males and estrus females, respectively, may be novel approaches for improving organ functions under such conditions.
MUSIC and pencil-based sinusoidal estimation methods using fourth order cumulants

A new approach for using slices of higher order cumulants for estimating the parameters of complex sinusoids using signal and noise subspaces are developed. Properties of Hankel and Toeplitz matrices formed from sample cumulants are studied and new approaches for the estimation of the parameters of complex sinusoids corrupted with colored Gaussian noise are presented. The signal frequencies are estimated using MUSIC-like, matrix pencil-based and ESPRIT-like methods.
Simulation of surface ship dynamics

We present a summary of the three-year Challenge Project (C68), begun in 2001, with the objective of demonstrating a capability to simulate time-dependent six-degree-of-freedom motions of ships in waves and the associated near-field flow using unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) codes. The efforts involved a team of researchers using two state-of-the-art unsteady RANS codes for a progression of building-block simulations at both model- and full-scales and for practical configurations including detailed resolution of propulsors and appendages. The two RANS codes used for this project are UNCLE, developed at the Mississippi State University, and CFDSHIP-IOWA, developed at the University of Iowa. The three-year efforts have successfully demonstrated a capability to simulate coupled pitch/heave motions, coupled pitch/heave/roll motions, maneuvers in the horizontal plane, and near-field wake, including propeller and viscous effects. The predictive capability demonstrated in this project has clearly paved the way for more challenging computations that involve large-amplitude motions in high sea states for a new generation of naval ships, including surface combatant and other future hull forms.
MultiContrast Delayed Enhancement (MCODE) improves detection of subendocardial myocardial infarction by late gadolinium enhancement cardiovascular magnetic resonance: a clinical validation study

Myocardial infarction (MI) documented by late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) has clinical and prognostic importance, but its detection is sometimes compromised by poor contrast between blood and MI. MultiContrast Delayed Enhancement (MCODE) is a technique that helps discriminate subendocardial MI from blood pool by simultaneously providing a T2-weighted image with a PSIR (phase sensitive inversion recovery) LGE image. In this clinical validation study, our goal was to prospectively compare standard LGE imaging to MCODE in the detection of MI. Imaging was performed on a 1.5 T scanner on patients referred for CMR including a LGE study. Prospective comparisons between MCODE and standard PSIR LGE imaging were done by targeted, repeat imaging of slice locations. Clinical data were used to determine MI status. Images at each of multiple time points were read on separate days and categorized as to whether or not MI was present and whether an infarction was transmural or subendocardial. The extent of infarction was scored on a sector-by-sector basis. Seventy-three patients were imaged with the specified protocol. The majority were referred for vasodilator perfusion exams and viability assessment (37 ischemia assessment, 12 acute MI, 10 chronic MI, 12 other diagnoses). Forty-six patients had a final diagnosis of MI (30 subendocardial and 16 transmural). MCODE had similar specificity compared to LGE at all time points but demonstrated better sensitivity compared to LGE performed early and immediately before and after the MCODE (p = 0.008 and 0.02 respectively). Conventional LGE only missed cases of subendocardial MI. Both LGE and MCODE identified all transmural MI. Based on clinical determination of MI, MCODE had three false positive MI’s; LGE had two false positive MI’s including two of the three MCODE false positives. On a per sector basis, MCODE identified more infarcted sectors compared to LGE performed immediately prior to MCODE (p < 0.001). While both PSIR LGE and MCODE were good in identifying MI, MCODE demonstrated more subendocardial MI’s than LGE and identified a larger number of infarcted sectors. The simultaneous acquisition of T1 and T2-weighted images improved differentiation of blood pool from enhanced subendocardial MI.
Spectrum of urodynamic abnormalities and renal function changes in adult men with non‐neurogenic urinary retention

2000 that included men/women aged 75 years living in a well-defined area in Vienna. The main purpose of the VITA study was to identify risk factors for incident Alzheimer’s disease. All study participants alive in 2010 were contacted by mail to complete a detailed questionnaire on various aspects of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and urinary incontinence (UI). Results: The response rate was 68%, resulting in a total of 262 questionnaires available for analysis (men n 96; women n 166). All study participants were 85 years of age. Urinary incontinence defined as any involuntary loss during the past 4 weeks was reported by 24% of men and 35% of women (P 0.04). Stress UI was more frequent in women (39%) than in men (14%, P 0.01), the difference for urge UI (women 35%, men 25%) was on the border of statistical significance (P 0.05). Only four individuals (1.5%) needed permanent catheterization. Urgency (women 56%, men 54%) and daytime frequency (women 70%, men 74%) were equally distributed (P 0.05). Nocturia more often than twice was more prevalent in men (69%) than in women (49%) (P 0.02). Overactive bladder, according to International Continence Society criteria, was present in 55% of women and 50% of men. No difference regarding quality of life impairment as the result of LUTS and UI was noticed between sexes. A few co-morbidities were identified to correlate with UI and storage symptoms. Conclusions: These data provide insights into the prevalence and severity of LUTS and UI in individuals in their eighties, to our knowledge the largest population-based study in this age group. Demographic changes in upcoming decades underline the importance of a thorough understanding of lower urinary tract dysfunction in a geriatric population. Editorial Comment: Life expectancy continues to gradually increase in most developed countries, which has led to a sharp increase in the elderly population in many countries. In fact, patients older than 85 years represent the fastest growing segment of the United States population. Similar trends have been described across Europe and Asia. This study examined LUTS and UI symptoms in a cohort of 85-year-old patients living in the Vienna metropolitan area in Austria. Patients had initially been enrolled in a longitudinal health study starting at age 75. Mailed surveys were used and the response rate was good, at 68%. The point prevalence of urinary incontinence was 24% in men and 35% in women. As noted, the authors found significant differences between men and women regarding type of incontinence and voiding symptoms. It was interesting that 54% of the men and 51% of the women in this study reported that they felt LUTS did not affect their quality of life. Nocturia was reported to be the most bothersome symptom by 29.7% of men and 28.5% of women. Clinically this may be one of the most important as well as most challenging symptoms to treat in the geriatric patient population.
Enterprise Systems Education through Supply Chain Management

ABSTRACT The U.S. and other developed nations are experiencing competitiveness in offering higher educational degree programs. Due to the rise of more private and online educational institutions, existing traditional class room teaching institutions are facing the impact of intensifying competition in recruitment and graduation. This created the so-called “Enterprise Systems Education” at large. Many strategies are designed and developed internally to attain competitiveness. One should consider adopting the systems concept of close collaboration and integration efforts with the industries which the commercial enterprises have deployed successfully for decades to attain competitiveness. This paper describes the use of Supply Chain Management (SCM) principles as an effective strategy to attain competitiveness for these so-called “Enterprise Systems Education” institutions. Keywords: Supply Chain Management Competitiveness Enterprise Systems
Oral atorvastatin therapy increases nitric oxide-dependent cutaneous vasodilation in humans by decreasing ascorbate-sensitive oxidants

Elevated low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are associated with cutaneous microvascular dysfunction partially mediated by increased arginase activity, which is decreased following a systemic atorvastatin therapy. We hypothesized that increased ascorbate-sensitive oxidant stress, partially mediated through uncoupled nitric oxide synthase (NOS) induced by upregulated arginase, contributes to cutaneous microvascular dysfunction in hypercholesterolemic (HC) humans. Four microdialysis fibers were placed in the skin of nine HC (LDL = 177 ± 6 mg/dl) men and women before and after 3 mo of a systemic atorvastatin intervention and at baseline in nine normocholesterolemic (NC) (LDL = 95 ± 4 mg/dl) subjects. Sites served as control, NOS inhibited, L-ascorbate, and arginase-inhibited+L-ascorbate. Skin blood flow was measured while local skin heating (42°C) induced NO-dependent vasodilation. After the established plateau in all sites, 20 mM ≪ngname≫ was infused to quantify NO-dependent vasodilation. Data were normalized to maximum cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC) (sodium nitroprusside + 43°C). The plateau in vasodilation during local heating (HC: 78 ± 4 vs. NC: 96 ± 2% CVCmax, P 0.05). After the atorvastatin intervention NO-dependent vasodilation was augmented in the HC group (HC postatorvastatin: 64 ± 4% CVCmax, P 0.05) or combined with arginase inhibition (67 ± 4% CVCmax, P > 0.05). Increased ascorbate-sensitive oxidants contribute to hypercholesteromic associated cutaneous microvascular dysfunction which is partially reversed with atorvastatin therapy.
Tracheobronchial Stenosis: Causes and Advances in Management

Tracheobronchial stenosis, narrowing of the airways by neoplastic or nonneoplastic processes, may be focal, as occurs with postintubation tracheal stenosis or a focal narrowing from a tumor, or more diffuse, such as those caused by inflammatory diseases. Symptoms develop when the narrowing impedes flow and increases resistance within the airways. Computed tomography defines the extent and severity of disease; endoscopy facilitates understanding of the cause so that an algorithm for treatment can be devised. Bronchoscopic interventions include balloons, ablative treatment, and stenting to provide symptomatic relief. Surgical resection may be curative and a multidisciplinary approach to tracheobronchial stenosis is required.
Memory for Childhood Sexual Abuse Can Be Shaped by Social Conversations: A Commentary on Fagin, Cyr, and Hirst

Summary Conversations can affect memory, including victims' memories of childhood sexual abuse. As reviewed by Fagin, Cyr, and Hirst, victims disclose different types of information to different audiences. This in turn affects their memory of the abuse; the discussed details are reinforced and the related, but not discussed, details are forgotten. The current commentary extends these arguments in three ways. First, it is important to note that not all victims disclose their abuse, and thus, not all victims are subject to conversational influences. Second, when victims disclose their abuse they may also experience verbal overshadowing effects, exhibiting impaired recall for the discussed perceptual details. Finally, when disclosing their abuse victims sometimes have conversational goals other than accuracy. Depending upon the audience victims may exaggerate details or focus on how they emotionally responded. These decisions also have memorial consequences; people remember and believe what they said rather than what they experienced.Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and Evaluation of High-Resolution Climate Simulations over the Mountainous Northeastern United States

The mountain regions of the northeastern United States are a critical socioeconomic resource for Vermont, New York State, New Hampshire, Maine, and southern Quebec. While global climate models (GCMs) are important tools for climate change risk assessment at regional scales, even the increased spatial resolution of statistically downscaled GCMs (commonly approximately 1/ 8 deg) is not sufficient for hydrologic, ecologic, and land-use modeling of small watersheds within the mountainous Northeast. To address this limitation, an ensemble of topographically downscaled, high-resolution (30"), daily 2-m maximum air temperature; 2-m minimum air temperature; and precipitation simulations are developed for the mountainous Northeast by applying an additional level of downscaling to intermediately downscaled (1/ 8 deg) data using high-resolution topography and station observations. First, observed relationships between 2-m air temperature and elevation and between precipitation and elevation are derived. Then, these relationships are combined with spatial interpolation to enhance the resolution of intermediately downscaled GCM simulations. The resulting topographically downscaled dataset is analyzed for its ability to reproduce station observations. Topographic downscaling adds value to intermediately downscaled maximum and minimum 2-m air temperature at high-elevation stations, as well as moderately improves domain-averaged maximum and minimum 2-m air temperature. Topographic downscaling also improves mean precipitation but not daily probability distributions of precipitation. Overall, the utility of topographic downscaling is dependent on the initial bias of the intermediately downscaled product and the magnitude of the elevation adjustment. As the initial bias or elevation adjustment increases, more value is added to the topographically downscaled product.
Management of Citrus Rust Mite (Acari: Eriophyidae) Resistance to Dicofol in Florida Citrus

Cage and field studies of the dynamics of the citrus rust mite, Phyllocoptruta oleivora (Ashmead), resistance to dicofol appeared to be unstable; the frequency of resistance declined quickly in the absence of selection pressure, Different regimes for dicofol (twice per year, once per year, dicofol after 2 yr of its relaxation, and untreated control) were evaluated in Florida in 2 commercial citrus groves during 1990, 1991, and 1992 seasons, We detected a positive relationship between the number of dicofol applications made per year and the frequency of resistance to dicofol. Differences in the frequencies of dicofol-resistant mites in bioassays reflected differences in the neld performance of dicofol. Use of dicofol twice per year was not appropriate because of an increased trend in the frequency of resistance from one year to the next. However, using dicofol once per year, the frequency of resistance to dicofol returned to a level equal to or less than the frequency before selection after ≈ 12 mo of dicofol application, We recommend resistance management program for dicofol for Florida citrus.
Oxidation and phosphorylation in live mitochondria from alloxan and steptozotocin diabetic rats

SummaryRespiratory activities were determined for liver mitochondria from rats with chronic alloxan and streptozotocin diabetes. Only those rats with blood glucose levels above 300 mg %, 30 days after injection of the diabetogenic substances were used. Both alloxan and streptozotocin diabetic mitochondria showed increased rates of respiration with a-oxoglutarate and L-malate + pyruvate as substrates but the P:O ratios were not altered. Administration of alloxan (200 mg/kg) to chronically diabetic rats 60 hr prior to killing did not cause further alterations in mitochondrial function which would have been indicative of direct mitochondrial poisoning by alloxan.It can be concluded that altered efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation in the liver mitochondria is not a primary lesion in the biochemistry of chronic diabetes. Poisoning of liver mitochondria by the direct action of alloxan is not an acceptable explanation for the altered mitochondrial functions previously seen with diabetic liver mitochondria wh...
Epidemiological Investigation and Analysis on 4 Outbreaks of Influenza A(H1N1) in Primary Schools

[Objective] To understand the epidemiolgical characteristics of influenza A(H1N1) outbreak in primary schools of Mawei district in Fuzhou city,analyze the causes and control measures,and provide a scientific basis for making control measures of influenza A(H1N1) outbreak in schools.[Methods]The epidemiolgical characteristics of influenza A(H1N1) outbreak in 4 schools of Mawei district in Fuzhou city were analyzed with field epidemiological investigation.The throat swab specimens were collected from patients,and nucleic acid of influenza A(H1N1) was detected by real-time RT-PCR.[Results]There were 146 influenza-like cases in 4 schools,and the attack rate was 33.56‰.The duration of the outbreak was 3~6 days,male to female ratio was 1∶1,and the main clinical symptoms were fever and cough.[Conclusion]There was no obvious source of infection and the transmission chain among 4 outbreaks of influenza A(H1N1),which suggested that there were the spread of community-level.With the comprehensive measures of separate therapy,strict morning and noon check and registration of sick leave,strengthening ventilation of classroom and health education,the epidemic situation of influenza A(H1N1) was controlled in time.
Progress of Researches on Biotechnology of Rice in Jilin Province

The status and progress on researches of tissue culture,cell culture,molecular marker and genetic engineering of rice in Jilin Province were mainly summarized in the paper.Furthermore,problems of the biotechnology researches of rice and the key research area were pointed out.
Detection of Dementia

Nearly six million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders (AD), many with co-morbid medical conditions and depression. Recent healthcare reform has placed a greater emphasis on preventive services, cognitive screening, and quality measures for clinical care with a particular focus of addressing AD. Thus an accountable way to improve dementia detection, care, and patient- and family-centered outcomes is greatly needed. Early detection as a core element, coupled with treatments or preventative actions to reduce the burden of disease and provide benefits to the patient and family. Dementia detection may identify individuals in whom a disease has already begun and who may be experiencing mild clinical symptoms but have not yet sought out medical care. Here we review assessment methods and use of currently available biomarkers to improve detection of dementia.
35 Postural stability tests that identify high school athletes with chronic ankle instability

Background Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is characterised by repeated ankle sprains with subsequent symptoms of pain, weakness and giving way. It is important to appropriately identify individuals in the high school setting that suffer from CAI and could benefit from rehabilitation. Objective The purpose of this study was to determine specific cutoff scores that identify high-school patients with CAI. Design Case-control study. Setting High school. Patients (or participants) A total of twenty-six participants were used for the study. CAI group: (n = 13, height = 172.23 ± 8.34 cm, body mass = 79.69 ± 22.63 kg, age = 16.69 ± 1.03 years). Healthy group: (n = 13, height = 174.00 ± 6.88 cm, body mass = 62.78 ± 5.15 kg, age = 16.31 ± 1.18 years). Interventions Four balance tests were used. Static measures included the time in balance test and the foot-lift test, and dynamic measures included the Star Excursion Balance Test (antero-medial, medial and postero-medial reach directions) and the side-hop test. Main outcome measurements Balance was measured utilising the following: time in balance measured length of time balancing (sec), foot-lift measured number (score) of foot lifts, SEBT measured distance reached (cm) and side-hop measured time to complete (sec). We calculated area-under-the-curve values and cutoff scores and used a 1-tailed fisher exact test to determine if participants with and without CAI could be characterised using the cut-off scores. Results We found significant area under the curve values for time in balance, foot lift, Star Excursion Balance Test (antero-medial) and side hop. Significant cutoff scores were noted for time in balance (≤ 23.5 sec), foot-lift (≥4 lifts), SEBT: antero-medial direction (≤ 0.87), medial direction (≤ 0.86) and side-hop (≥ 9.81 sec). Conclusions These cutoff scores can assist clinicians in identifying individuals that suffer from CAI and could benefit from rehabilitation to decrease their symptoms and improve balance.
Coevolutionary Fitness Landscapes

Abstract Coevolution plays a key role in shaping the biodiversity on Earth. Coevolution is commonly defined as reciprocal evolutionary changes brought about by interactions between species, implying that interacting species impose selection on each other. The covariance between fitness and trait value determines the strength of natural selection. Thus, to understand coevolution, it is necessary to understand fitness both within and between species. A large amount of research has focused on fitness consequences resulting from interacting with other species (e.g., antagonisms, mutualisms). The geographic mosaic theory places coevolutionary fitness outcomes in a broader landscape of both spatial and environmental variability.
Four-factor prothrombin complex concentrate for life-threatening bleeds or emergent surgery: A retrospective evaluation

Abstract Purpose Previous trials investigating usage of four-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4F-PCC) excluded patients with various thrombotic risk factors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of 4F-PCC in a real-world setting based on an institutional protocol that does not have strict exclusion criteria. Methods This was a retrospective study of adult patients who received 4F-PCC. The primary outcome was a confirmed thromboembolism within 14 days after 4F-PCC administration. Secondary outcomes included international normalized ratio (INR) correction to Results Ninety-three patients received 4F-PCC. Sixty-three (67.7%) were reversed for bleeding and 30 (32.3%) for surgery. Eleven patients (11.8%) developed a thromboembolism within 14 days. The median (interquartile range) time to event was 5 (2-7) days. Significant risk factors were heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (P= .01) and major surgery within 14 days (P= .02), as well as the presence of >6 thrombotic risk factors (P= .01). For patients post-warfarin reversal, 45/63 (71.4%) achieved INR correction at first draw, 55/63 (87.3%) achieved INR correction within 24 hours, and 14/55 (25.5%) experienced INR rebound. Of these 14 patients, 8 (57.1%) did not receive concomitant vitamin K. Conclusions 4F-PCC was associated with a notable thromboembolic risk. All patient-specific risk factors should be considered prior to administration. 4F-PCC remains a useful agent for warfarin reversal. Lack of concomitant vitamin K may contribute to INR rebound.
A Marketing Analysis of Housing and Neighborhood Dimensions Among Black Consumers: A Case Study

The focus of this study is to develop a marketing plan to increase the amount of home ownership in the Church Hill area of Richmond by middle-class black consumers. Focus group interviews and a telephone survey were employed to determine the target markets’ attitudes, priorities, and intentions regarding housing and neighborhood factors.
Survival of the Fittest: How Bacterial Pathogens Utilize Bile To Enhance Infection

Bacterial pathogens have coevolved with humans in order to efficiently infect, replicate within, and be transmitted to new hosts to ensure survival and a continual infection cycle. For enteric pathogens, the ability to adapt to numerous host factors under the harsh conditions of the gastrointestinal tract is critical for establishing infection. One such host factor readily encountered by enteric bacteria is bile, an innately antimicrobial detergent-like compound essential for digestion and nutrient absorption. Not only have enteric pathogens evolved to resist the bactericidal conditions of bile, but these bacteria also utilize bile as a signal to enhance virulence regulation for efficient infection. This review provides a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of bile-related research with enteric pathogens. From common responses to the unique expression of specific virulence factors, each pathogen has overcome significant challenges to establish infection in the gastrointestinal tract. Utilization of bile as a signal to modulate virulence factor expression has led to important insights for our understanding of virulence mechanisms for many pathogens. Further research on enteric pathogens exposed to this in vivo signal will benefit therapeutic and vaccine development and ultimately enhance our success at combating such elite pathogens.
Catching Social Media Advertisers with Strategy Analysis

Advertisers worldwide spent $24 billion to reach consumers on social media in 2015. While such a new way of advertising has successfully turn the social media into generous profits, the strategies behind it is still mystery to users, advertisers and many businesses. In this paper, we uncover the underlying mechanisms of the social media advertising. Specifically, we compare them with the old-school advertising strategies that have been widely used since the early 1900s. The advertising on the high tech does not achieve beyond the wisdom of the elders but run faster at a unprecedented scale. We define a series of novel features from the strategies we discover. We further propose a classification method called SocAdDet based on the SVMs. Experiments on a real social dataset show that SocAdDet can accurately identify different advertising strategies and detect the social promoters. The high accuracy demonstrates that the social media advertising is stronger but not smarter.