cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Elections under authoritarianism: Preliminary lessons from Jordan

This study examines the politics of elections in authoritarian regimes, focusing on Jordan. Specifically, it considers (1) what is the role of elections in authoritarian regimes? (2) How can we understand voter behaviour in authoritarian elections? (3) How and why do candidates participate in elections? (4) How do state elites manage electoral competition? The fundamental contention is that elections under authoritarianism are an important arena for competition, but one over patronage, not policy. This has profound effects on electoral politics. Voters generally cast their ballots for those who can, and will, deliver goods; that is, they vote for candidates who maintain good relations with ruling elites, and with whom the voters have personal ties. Elites are similarly more likely to run in elections if they do not oppose the regime. The result is a pro-regime bias in parliaments, even in the absence of regime manipulation. Consequently, in contrast to conventional wisdom, elections are neither pre-determ...
Boundary behavior of ring Q-homeomorphisms in metric spaces

We investigate the problem of extension of so-called ring Q-homeomorphisms between domains in metric spaces with measures to the boundary. We establish conditions for the function Q(x) and the boundary of the domain under which any ring Q-homeomorphism admits a continuous or a homeomorphic extension to the boundary. The results are applicable, in particular, to Riemannian manifolds, Lowner spaces, and Carnot and Heisenberg groups.
Sources of floral scent variation: Can environment define floral scent phenotype?

Studies of floral scent generally assume that genetic adaptation due to pollinator-mediated natural selection explains a significant amount of phenotypic variance, ignoring the potential for phenotypic plasticity in this trait. In this paper, we assess this latter possibility, looking first at previous studies of floral scent variation in relation to abiotic environmental factors. We then present data from our own research that suggests among-population floral scent variation is determined, in part, by environmental conditions and thus displays phenotypic plasticity. Such an outcome has strong ramifications for the study of floral scent variation; we conclude by presenting some fundamental questions that should lead to greater insight into our understanding of the evolution of this trait, which is important to plant-animal interactions.
The chemistry of 1,2,5-thiadiazoles V. Synthesis of 3,4-diamino-1,2,5-thiadiazole and [1,2,5] thiadiazolo[3,4-b]pyrazines

The o-diamine, 3,4-diamino-1,2,5-thiadiazole (2), was synthesized from 3,4-dichloro-1,2,5-thiadiazole (3) hy three methods. Aqueous glyoxal cyclized 2 into [1,2,5]thiadiazolo[3,4–6]-pyrazine (14). 3,4-Dichloro-1,2,5-thiadiazole 1,1-dioxide (18) reaeted with 2 to give 1,3-dihydro-bis[1,2,5]thiadiazolo[3,4-b:3′,4′-e]pyrazine 2,2-dioxide (19). The reaction of 2 with selenium oxyehloride led to [1,2,5]selenadiazolo[3,4-c] [1,2,5]thiadiazole (12). Ring closure of 2,3-diaminoquinoxaline (4) with thionyl chloride or selenium oxychloride gave [1,2,5]thiadiazolo-[3,4-b]quinoxaline (21) and [1,2,5]selenadiazolo[3,4-b]quinoxaline (22), respectively. Sulfurous acid reduced 21 to the 4,9-dihydro derivative 23, which was reoxidized to 21 with chloranil. Aqueous hase hydrolyzed 21 to 4 via the hydrated intermediate 24. Aqueous glyoxal cyclized 4 to the covalent hydrate of pyrazino[2,3-b]quinoxaline (26), 27, which was dehydrated to 26. Compound 26 underwent rapid addition of two alcohols in a process analogous to covalent hydration.
High throughput materials research and development: a growing effort at NIST

The US private sector has indicated that the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has a role to play in facilitating the implementation of high throughput experimentation, e.g. using combinatorial methods. The Advanced Technology Program (ATP) is currently funding research projects in high throughput discovery of catalysts, electronic materials, and polymer coatings internally and externally to NIST. The NIST Measurement and Standards Laboratories (MSL) is actively pursuing research in electronic materials and organic polymers. This presentation presents details on these efforts at NIST.
Gel electrode imaging of fatigue cracks in steel

Abstract The gel electrode method of imaging small fatigue cracks, originally developed for aluminum alloys, has been modified for steel. Prior to fatigue testing, the surface is anodized to form a thin (30 nm) protective dual-layer oxide/organic film. When the gel electrode is applied, this film inhibits current flow except where it is ruptured by fatigue cracks in the steel. The current to the crack forms an image in the gel which is clearly visible to the eye, and has a spatial resolution of 50 μm. A crack in 1008 steel can be imaged more than twelve times, but steels of higher carbon content yield fewer images. The ultimate inability to obtain an additional image is due to defects in the protective anodic film. These defects are associated with the carbides in the steel.
Rate equation solution for the temporal behavior of a three-level system.

The time behavior of a three-level system has been solved with general assumptions using the rate equation approach and under a pulsed spectral irradiance with rectangular shape. Three different specific cases, corresponding to possible conditions for inorganic atom seeds in atmospheric flame, have been investigated making use of literature values for the collisional and radiative rate constants. Results of these calculations are presented for Tl and Ga atoms when excited via the transitions 1 ? 3, 2 ? 3, and 1 ? 2 under different source spectral irradiances, flame conditions, and the most significant collisional coupling constants between the various levels.
Trends in low-risk lifestyle factors among adults in the United States: Findings from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System 1996–2007

Abstract Objective Our objective was to examine recent trends in low-risk lifestyle factors for chronic diseases (not currently smoking, any exercise during the past 30 days, consuming fruits and vegetables ≥ 5 times per day, and body mass index 2 ) among U.S. adults. Methods We used data from 1,580,220 adults aged ≥ 18 years who participated in one of seven Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System surveys conducted from 1996 to 2007. Results The age-adjusted percentage of adults meeting all four low-risk lifestyle factors was 8.5% in 1996 and 7.7% in 2007 ( p for linear trend 2 were 70.9%, 76.2%, 47.9% and 24.3%, respectively, in 1996 and 77.1%, 80.0%, 37.8%, and 24.5%, respectively, in 2007. Women and whites were more likely than their counterparts to meet all four criteria. Conclusions From 1996 to 2007, the percentage of U.S. adults meeting all four low-risk lifestyle factors decreased slightly.
Atomistic study of edge and screw (c + a) dislocations in magnesium

The gamma surfaces in the pyramidal I {1 -1 0 1} and II {1 1 -2 2} planes for hexagonal close packed Mg have been calculated using two embedded-atom-method potentials and by ab initio methods, and reasonable agreement is obtained for key stacking fault energies. Screw and edge textless c + a textgreater dislocation core structures and Peierls stresses at 0 K and finite temperature have been examined using the embedded-atom-method potentials. Screw textless c + a textgreater dislocations glide in the {1 -1 0 1} pyramidal plane I, and in the prism plane for larger stresses, but not in the {1 1 -2 2} plane as observed in experiments. However, the preference for pyramidal I glide correlates well with the gamma surfaces. New low energy edge textless c + a textgreater dislocation cores were found in addition to the sessile Type I and Type III cores observed in previous simulations while the Type II core was not observed. The lowest energy core is a glissile core that lies in the {1 1 -2 2} plane and has a 3 nm long {1 1 -2 1} twin embryo, rather than the sessile Type III core found in previous simulations. As the temperature increases from 0 to 300 K, the Peierls stresses in compression/tension drop from -80 MPa/+140 MPa and -140 MPa/+220 MPa for the most glissile screw and edge dislocations to -5/+2.5 MPa and -27/+5 MPa, and dislocation glide changes from kink motion to face-centered-cubic-like motion. At 300 K and under an applied stress, almost all the edge cores found at low temperature transform into a glissile core denoted IT, which glides at low stresses. Thus, at 300 K both screw and edge textless c + a textgreater dislocations were found to glide at stresses smaller than the similar to 40 MPa measured experimentally. (C) 2010 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Some notes on fusion of uncertain information

This article attempts to analyze the combination of uncertain pieces of information, particularly, given several pieces of information, each of which is assigned a certainty factor. The problem then is whether it is possible to find the certainty factor associated with the combination result. This problem, even if it has been widely commented on in probability literature from various viewpoints, sounds less analyzed in the framework of possibility or evidence theories. This study investigates various proposals for quantifying certainty qualification and then constructs the certainty assigned for the combination result of initial inputs. First, we shall consider some basic combination modes and then attempt to generalize the result for more general combination modes. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Economic Forces Driving Food Safety Quality in Meat and Poultry

This article examines the impact of regulation and market-driven private actions on food safety performance in the meat and poultry industries. We find that private actions account for about 80% and regulation about 20% of the overall reduction in the share of samples of cattle and hog carcasses, ground beef, and broilers testing positive for Salmonella if all regulation and private actions were increased by identical amounts.
Selective switching: an enabling technology for high-performance ATM switch fabric

As the demand for high-throughput and low-latency communication increases, traditional packet switches with receive-and-forward mode of relaying will have increasing difficulties in meeting users' high traffic volume and high quality-of-service expectation. In this paper we propose a novel packet switch that uses selective switching as its relaying mode, and describe a new optoelectronic LEADER device that supports such an implementation.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Conjugated Polymers via Electrochemical Polymerization of Thieno[3,4-b]thiophene (T34bT) and 3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT)

Herein the electrochemical polymerizations of thieno[3,4-b]thiophene (T34bT) and 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) and the electrochemical copolymerizations of T34bT and EDOT carried out in tetrabutylammonium perchlorate and tetrabutylammonium hexafluorophosphate electrolyte are compared utilizing cyclic voltammetry, chronocoulometry, and chronogravimetry. Simultaneous polymerization of T34bT and EDOT produced a copolymer, as confirmed by vis-NIR spectroscopy. The simultaneous polymerization of T34bT and EDOT exhibits a peak for monomer oxidation intermediate to the monomer oxidation peaks for each of the single component monomer systems. Furthermore, the copolymer exhibited tremendous stability to n-doping in comparison to either of the homopolymers of T34bT or EDOT. Polymerization rates as determined via chronogravimetry were found to be highest for EDOT with the lowest rate being obtained for the copolymerization of T34bT and EDOT. All polymers exhibited high anion dominancy (>80%) with the highest val...
Prenatal Diagnosis of Cor Triatriatum Sinister in Association With Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

Cor triatriatum sinister is a rare congenital heart defect related to incomplete common pulmonary vein resorption into the primitive heart. This lesion usually presents with pulmonary venous obstruction and can occur in association with left-sided obstructive lesions such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). In the context of HLHS, the presence of cor triatriatum sinister carries additional surgical and prognostic implications. Fetal diagnosis can enable appropriate counseling of the family and guide optimal peri- and postnatal management. The reported case represents the first prenatal description of cor triatriatum sinister in association with HLHS.
Building a bridge between AGU and SEG

AGU and the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) complement each other in many ways. SEG is known for strength in applied geophysics and method development, while AGU is known for application of geophysics to broader scientific questions in Earth and atmospheric sciences. These boundaries are of course gray, and there is substantial and complementary overlap of interests, particularly among some disciplines; these include the study of passive and active source seismology, gravity and magnetic anomalies, and electrical and electromagnetic methodologies, as well as interest in the application of these methods to crustal structure, near- surface geophysics, geothermal exploration, and basin analysis. Facilitating communication between members of SEG and those of AGU has a significant impact on the geophysical sciences. The AGU-SEG Collaboration Committee (ASCC) was established as part of the AGUSEG Alliance Agreement, signed in 2010. In the agreement, ASCC was “charged with considering and making recommendations to the respective organizations regarding other areas of cooperation, such as joint workshops or programs and continuing- education courses.” The first committee-wide meeting was held on 11 February 2011. Subsequent meetings are scheduled every 4–6 weeks.
Phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of thymic and splenic lymphokine activated killer cells relative to ornithine sensitivity.

Abstract We have previously reported the selective inhibition of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) by 10 m M ornithine (ORN) relative to natural killer (NK) cell-derived lymphokine activated killer cells (LAK). To determine if this were due to differences in the progenitor cells or the type of stimulus, we used cortisone-resistant thymocytes (CRT) as a source of mature T cells for induction of LAK and CTL, and compared the results with spleen. Thymic and splenic CTL precursors (CTL P ) from C57B1/6 (B6) mice were CD8 + , ASGM1 − , ORN sensitive. Splenic LAK precursors (LAK P ) were CD8 − , ASGM1 + , ORN resistant when assayed against both YAC-1 and P815 tumor targets. In contrast, CRT-derived LAK P were CD8 − , ASGM1 + , ORN resistant against YAC-1, whereas LAK P against P815 were CD8 + , ASGM1 + , ORN sensitive. ORN sensitivity was also observed among CTL and LAK in DBA/2 mice and was associated with CD8 + phenotype. Therefore, our initial observation of differential ORN sensitivity in CTL vs LAK was a function of the progenitor cells; furthermore, CD8 + cytolytic cells are ORN sensitive whether activated by antigen (CTL) or IL-2 (T-LAK).
Grain boundary induced compositional stress in nanocrystalline ceria films

Abstract Oxygen removal from non-stoichiometric oxides produces volume changes that can lead to substantial stresses when these materials are constrained in a thin film or coating. To measure this effect, in situ stress measurements were conducted on ceria films during oxidation–reduction cycling, at temperatures of 470–515 °C. Large reversible stresses approaching 0.5 GPa were observed at these moderate temperatures. These compositional stresses increased with decreasing grain size, and were larger than expected based on literature values for the volume expansion and elastic modulus. These results demonstrate that grain boundary effects dominate compositional stresses in nanocrystalline material. This observation is consistent with the idea that space charge effects near surfaces and interfaces produce substantial stresses. Analysis of the results also demonstrates that the measured grain boundary contribution is only a weak function of temperature, and several possible explanations for this observation are discussed.
On participation and membership in discursive practices

For a view which grounds norms in the practices of a particular group, determining who is in that group will determine the scope of those norms. Such a view requires an account of what it is to be a member of the group subject to that practice. In this article, the author presents the beginnings of such an account, limiting his inquiry to discursive practices; we might characterize such practices as those which require, as a condition of participation, participants both to exchange reasons with one another and to recognize that practice as a common source of reasons. The author argues that membership in such groups is constituted by the conjunction of shared discursive practices, common recognition of the authority of that practice, and commitments between members. In the case of discursive practices, these features of membership are inseparable.
Environmental enrichment ameliorates phencyclidine-induced cognitive deficits

Recent work has suggested that environmental enrichment during development can enhance aspects of learning and memory, however its effects on executive function and cognitive flexibility have not been well studied. The goal of this research was to evaluate whether environmental enrichment (EE) that included wheel running would improve cognitive performance in young male Long Evans rats that received subchronic administration of either phencyclidine (PCP) or saline. We used a sensitive extradimensional/intradimensional (ED/ID) test of cognitive flexibility similar to that used in humans and nonhuman primates for assessing executive function. PCP-treated rats demonstrated a selective impairment on ED shift (EDS) performance without significant impairment on other discrimination problems when compared to saline treated control animals. A separate group of animals that received PCP + EE demonstrated significantly improved performance on EDS and reversal learning problems, whereas the saline + EE group demonstrated a non-selective improvement in overall performance when compared to non-enriched saline controls. The saline + EE group demonstrated greater activity levels as measured by wheel running when compared to the PCP + EE group, but no significant associations were found between wheel running and cognitive performance. Together, these data suggest that EE that features wheel running may have promoted a general cognitive enhancement while also selectively acting upon neurobiological mechanisms that subserve executive function and cognitive flexibility in impaired animals. Development of novel treatment methodologies that target mechanisms underlying the ameliorative effects of EE in this model of cognitive impairment may be a useful tool in the development of new therapeutic strategies for disorders that feature cognitive dysfunction as a key symptom.
Molecular dynamics simulations of cinchonidine-modified platinum in ethanol: comparisons with surface studies

Abstract The interaction of the chiral modifier cinchonidine with Pt(1 1 1) both in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) and in ethanol solvent has been studied using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. In UHV at low coverage (0.0125 molecules/Pt atom) and 298.15 K the cinchonidine was found to adsorb with the quinoline ring oriented largely parallel ( α =6°) to the surface. Cinchonidine surface attachment was found to be through both π bonding of the aromatic group and adsorption of the CC double bond of the vinyl group. The dihedral angles T 1 and T 2 are reduced about 30° and 20°, respectively, with respect to those corresponding to the vacuum free molecule, revealing the strong molecule–surface interaction. A previous UHV experimental study in the literature performed at similar coverage ( θ ≈0.03 molecules/Pt atom) of the related aromatic molecule quinoline shows an aromatic tilt of ≈15°, which is in reasonable agreement with the present MD simulations. The interactions between ethanol solutions of cinchonidine (0.129 and 1.035 M) and the platinum surface were also simulated at 298.15 K. The cinchonidine coverage was found to be 0.0125 molecules/Pt atom for a 0.129 M solution and approximately 0.0375 molecules/Pt for 1.035 M. The results indicate that either the entire quinoline group or at least part of the quinoline group is attached to the platinum surface (via the π system) in all cases. For the less concentrated solution (0.129 M) we found two different equilibrium conformations, one in which only part of the quinoline is attached to the surface, and a slightly more stable conformation that involves the quinoline group being adsorbed parallel to the platinum surface. We found that cinchonidine conformation at the surface was not only affected by the ethanol solvent, but also by the cinchonidine–cinchonidine steric interactions and their competition for surface sites. These MD simulations are compared with recent in situ Raman and infrared studies of this important adsorption system, and show overall good agreement.
Cosmological fluctuations of small wavelength

This paper presents a completely analytic treatment of cosmological fluctuations whose wavelength is small enough to come within the horizon well before the energy densities of matter and radiation become equal. This analysis yields a simple formula for the conventional transfer function T(k) at large wavenumber k, which agrees very well with computer calculations of T(k). It also yields an explicit formula for the microwave background multipole coefficient Cl at very large l.
Exploring aversion in an animal model of pre-motor stage Parkinson's disease

Documentation of several non-motor deficits in Parkinson's disease (PD) years prior to the onset of clinical motor symptoms has facilitated the exploration of several models to better understand the pre-motor features of the disease. Reports of aversion deficits in early stages of PD have led to the current study focused on neural and behavioral responses to aversion in a rat model of pre-motor PD. To gain insight into the pre-motor stage of PD, rats were administered low dosages of 6-hydroxydopamine in a step-wise manner and assessed at three weeks post the final treatment with behavioral and imaging measures. The pre-motor PD rats exhibited lower arousal and less avoidance behavior in the presence of an aversive odor. These results could not be attributed to selective hyposmia since the PD rats did not exhibit any deficit in the exploration of the odor. The imaging studies showed that the PD group had similar blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) activation in the olfactory regions, insular cortex and medial nucleus of amygdala as compared to the control and the sham lesioned groups, and significantly higher BOLD activation in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc). However significantly lower BOLD activation was observed in the basal, lateral and central nucleus of the amygdala in the PD group compared to sham and control animals. Taken together, our results suggest that aversion deficits in the pre-motor stages of the disease maybe a result of inappropriate response generation due to cortico-amygdalar dysfunction.
Discrete element modeling of sand production

Abstract This paper describes the application of Discrete Element Methods (DEM), [5, 14, 11, 12], to model the mechanics of sand production in oil recovery processes. Sand production occurs when a weak sandstone matrix disintegrates due to changes in fluid pressure gradient and/or effective stress. The principal goal of this work is to investigate possible mechanisms contributing to sand production that occur at the microscopic scale. Experimental results indicate that sanding processes are localized in nature, episodic, hysteretic, and depend on the fluid saturation and mobility in the porous matrix, [8, 3]. It is the coupled motion of the fluid and solid phases that we seek to model in this work. The sandstone matrix is modeled as an assemblage of bonded particles, providing a mechanism to simulate the tensile strength in the bulk material, attributable to cementation or capillary forces. A flow model based on Darcy's Law is incorporated in an existing DEM system to investigate the effect of flow rate on the collapse of the matrix.
Sensitivity of regions of chromatin containing hyperacetylated histones to DNase I

Abstract We have used DNase I as a probe for structural changes in regions of chromatin containing highly acetylated histones. The enzyme preferentially digests regions of chromatin that are associated with rapidly or highly acetylated histones, suggesting that nucleosomes in these regions are in a more accessible conformation. This sensitivity to DNase I may be related to the same factors which cause the differential digestion of active genes.
Refractive effects on optical measurement of alveolar volume: A 2-D ray-tracing approach

Lung imaging and assessment of alveoli geometry in the lung tissue is of great importance. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a real-time imaging technique used for this purpose, based on near-infrared interferometry, that can image several layers of distal alveoli in the lung tissue. The OCT measurements use low coherence interferometry, where light reflections from surfaces in the tissue are used to construct 2D images of the tissue. OCT images provide better depth compared to other optical microscopy techniques such as confocal reflectance and two-photon microscopy. Therefore, it is important to detect and verify optical distortions that happens with OCT, including refractive effect at the tissue-air alveoli wall interface which is not taken into account in the OCT imaging model. In this paper, the refractive effect at the tissue-air interface of the alveoli wall is modeled using exact ray tracing and direct implementation of Snell's law, and differences between alveoli area computed from OCT imaging and those measured by exact ray tracing of the OCT signal are analyzed.
Real-time analysis of hyperspectral data sets using NRL's ORASIS algorithm

The covered lantern project was initiated by the central MASINT Technology Coordination Office to demonstrate the tactical use of hyperspectral imagery with real time processing capability. We report on the design and use of the HYCORDER system developed for Covered Lantern that was tested in June 1995. The HYCORDER system consisted of an imaging spectrometer flying in a Pioneer Uncrewed Aeronautical Vehicle and a ground based real time analysis and visualization system. The camera was intensified allowing dawn to dusk operation. The spectral information was downlinked to the analysis system as standard analog video. The analysis system was constructed from 17 Texas Instrument C44 DSPs controlled by a 200 MHz Pentium Pro PC. A real time, parallel version of NRL's optical real-time adaptive spectral identification system algorithm was developed for this system. The system was capable of running continuously, allowing for broad area coverage. The algorithm was adaptive, accommodating changing lighting conditions and terrain. The general architecture of the algorithm will be discussed as well as results from the test.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A compact line replaceable unit laser driver for laser inertial fusion energy

The laser system has predicted performance of 8100-J at 16-Hz with 18% wallplug efficiency. This laser also has broad industrial applications including materials processing, and Chirped-Pulse-Amplification pump/amplifier sources which in turn can produce secondary radiation sources.
Validation of the Jackson Heart Study Physical Activity Survey in African Americans.

Background:Physical inactivity has been consistently linked to cardiovascular disease, yet few instruments have been validated for assessment of physical activity in African Americans, a group particularly vulnerable to heart disease. The current study aimed to establish the psychometric properties of the activity survey used in the Jackson Heart Study (JHS) among African Americans, the JHS Physical Activity Cohort survey (JPAC). Methods:Test-retest reliability over 2 weeks was assessed using a convenience sample of 40 African Americans. Convergent validity with accelerometer and pedometer data were assessed in 2 samples from the JHS (N = 404 and 294, respectively). Results:Test-retest reliability was excellent, with intraclass correlations = .99 for the JPAC total and index scores. Higher JPAC total scores were significantly associated with higher raw accelerometer and pedometer counts. Spearman correlations between JPAC total scores and accelerometer (rho = .24) and pedometer counts (rho = .32) were con...
ANTIBODY MEDIATED SHIFT IN THE PROFILE OF GLYCOPROTEIN A PHENOTYPES OBSERVED IN A MOUSE MODEL OF PNEUMOCYSTIS CARINII PNEUMONIA. † 1017

ANTIBODY MEDIATED SHIFT IN THE PROFILE OF GLYCOPROTEIN A PHENOTYPES OBSERVED IN A MOUSE MODEL OF PNEUMOCYSTIS CARINII PNEUMONIA. † 1017
MRI-guided stereotactic placement of depth electrodes in temporal lobe epilepsy.

Electrodes placed stereotactically in mesial temporal lobe structures may be useful for determining laterality, and extent of the epileptogenic zone in temporal lobe epilepsy. We present and compare our experience with the use of two stereotactic arcs, the Brown-Roberts-Wells (BRW) and Cosman-Roberts-Wells (CRW) for magnetic resonance imaging guided placement of multicontact electrodes in the amygdala, anterior and posterior hippocampus. Out of 101 electrodes, 28 were placed in 6 and 17 patients using the BRW and CRW arcs, respectively. The target-centered design of the CRW arc eliminated the need for trajectory calculations, used uniform ‘depth’ measurements, and allowed greater operative flexibility and a shortened operating time. The use of depth electrode recording allowed 14 of the 23 patients to be selected for temporal lobectomy.
Are associative changes in acquisition and extinction negatively accelerated

Performance to a conditioned stimulus typically shows a negatively accelerated change with Pavlovian conditioning or extinction. This is commonly attributed to negatively accelerated changes in the underlying associative learning. However, the absence of well-specified rules for mapping learning into performance makes it difficult to infer changes in the size of associative changes for stimuli occupying different points on the performance scale. This problem can be addressed by comparing responding to stimulus compounds each consisting of 2 stimuli, 1 of which is poorly conditioned and 1 of which is well conditioned, when either the former or the latter receives a specified amount of additional training. This permits comparison at a common performance level. Two magazine-approach experiments in rats and 2 autoshaping experiments in pigeons used this technique to assess the form of the associative changes in acquisition and extinction.
Use of a Noninvasive Continuous Monitoring Device in the Management of Atrial Fibrillation: A Pilot Study

Background: Outpatient ambulatory cardiac rhythm monitoring is a routine part of the management of patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). Current systems are limited by patient convenience and practicality. Methods: We compared the Zio R � Patch, a single-use, noninvasive waterproof long-term continuous monitoring patch, with a 24-hour Holter monitor in 74 consecutive patients with paroxysmal AF referred for Holter monitoring for detection of arrhythmias. Results: The Zio R � Patch was well tolerated, with a mean monitoring period of 10.8 ± 2.8 days (range 4‐14 days). Over a 24-hour period, there was excellent agreement between the Zio R � Patch and Holter for identifying AF events and estimating AF burden. Although there was no difference in AF burden estimated by the Zio R � Patch and the Holter monitor, AF events were identified in 18 additional individuals, and the documented pattern of AF (persistent or paroxysmal) changed in 21 patients after Zio R � Patch monitoring. Other clinically relevant cardiac events recorded on the Zio R � Patch after the first 24 hours of monitoring, including symptomatic ventricular pauses, prompted referrals for pacemaker placement or changes in medications. As a result of the findings from the Zio R � Patch, 28.4% of patients had a change in their clinical management. Conclusions:The Zio R � Patch was well tolerated, and allowed significantly longer continuous monitoring than a Holter, resulting in an improvement in clinical accuracy, the detection of potentially malignant arrhythmias, and a meaningful change in clinical management. Further studies are necessary to examine the long-term impact of the use of the Zio R � Patch in AF management. (PACE 2013; 36:328‐333)
Positive communication moderates the relationship between corporal punishment and child depressive symptoms

Background: Findings are few and mixed regarding the moderating influence that supportive parenting might have on the link between corporal punishment and child depressive symptoms. Method: A multiple regression model was estimated to examine proposed relationships in a 1-year longitudinal community-recruited sample of 89 children (56% male; 9–12 years). Results: High levels of corporal punishment in tandem with high levels of supportive communication were associated with the highest levels of depressive symptoms. Conclusions: Although supportive parenting behaviors have been shown to be beneficial for child outcomes, when considering a stress-process framework, simultaneous experiences of harsh and positive parenting may yield more negative outcomes.
Building Collaborative Capacity in Community Coalitions: A Review and Integrative Framework

This article presents the results of a qualitative analysis of 80 articles, chapters, and practitioners' guides focused on collaboration and coalition functioning. The purpose of this review was to develop an integrative framework that captures the core competencies and processes needed within collaborative bodies to facilitate their success. The resulting framework for building collaborative capacity is presented. Four critical levels of collaborative capacity—member capacity, relational capacity, organizational capacity, and programmatic capacity—are described and strategies for building each type are provided. The implications of this model for practitioners and scholars are discussed.
Evaluation of Flight Control™ and Mesurol® as repellents to reduce horned lark (Eremophila alpestris) damage to lettuce seedlings

Abstract We conducted enclosure trials near Huron, CA in the San Joaquin Valley from 12 to 23 January 1999 to determine the efficacy of Flight Control™ (50% anthraquinone) and Mesurol ® (75% methiocarb) in preventing horned lark damage to lettuce seedlings. Flight Control™ (FC) and Mesurol ® were evaluated as foliar sprays at application rates of 2.79 and 2.27 kg ha −1 , respectively. Horned lark damage to lettuce seedlings treated with antraquinone was greater ( p =0.015) than for methiocarb ® , 60 versus 20%, respectively, and seedlings in control plots were 100% destroyed. While this level of damage is probably unacceptable to lettuce growers, it should be remembered that the enclosure situation caused an artificially high bird pressure on the crop. Further studies in open fields under a more normal bird pressure are warranted.
Achieving higher dynamic range in flash A/D converters

This paper proposes a robust, fault-tolerant scheme to achieve high spurious free dynamic range (SFDR) in an averaging flash A/D converter using comparator chopping. Chopping of all comparators using a novel array of truly binary random number generators is proposed. Chopping randomizes the residual offset left after averaging, further pushing the dynamic range of the converter. Power consumption and area are reduced because of the relaxed design requirements for the same linearity. The technique has been verified for a 6-bit 1Gsample/s flash ADC under case of process gradients with nonzero mean offsets as high as 60m V and potentially serious spot offset errors as high as 1V for a 2V peak to peak input signal. The proposed technique exhibits an improvement of over 15dB compared to pure averaging flash converters for all cases.
Gravity tectonic removal of cover of Blue Ridge anticlinorium to form Valley and Ridge province

Chiefly on the basis of comparative amounts of foreshortening of the Valley and Ridge and Blue Ridge provinces, it is proposed that the eastern Valley and Ridge strata are the remnants of the former cover of the Blue Ridge anticlinorium. This cover slumped to the northwest (by gravity tectonic denudation) as the western Piedmont-eastern Blue Ridge was tilted gently to the northwest during the Alleghany orogeny, probably during the Permian Period. In a later phase of the Alleghany deformation, the Blue Ridge anticlinorium formed, and throughout much of its length it was thrust over the Valley and Ridge province as a result of continued pressure from the southeast. Arguments are presented that the anticlinorium configuration of the Blue Ridge area did not develop until after deposition of the Paleozoic strata in the Appalachian basin.
Behaviorism and Public Policy: B. F. Skinner's Views on Gambling

The spread, regulation, and social side effects of gambling are major public policy issues. Although not presented systematically, extensive remarks about the nature of gambling appear in the works of B. F. Skinner. These are explicated in two broad categories: Skinner’ s explanation of gambling, and his argument(s) against gambling.
The Impact of the Care Equity Project with Community/Public Health Nursing Students

Objective The purpose of this article is to report on the evaluation process of a multi-disciplinary interactive teaching-learning workshop implemented in a college of nursing baccalaureate program. Design and Sample A 6-hr workshop on cultural humility and care equity was implemented using educational theater to bring clinical situations involved in community/public health practice into the classroom. One hundred and forty-nine students participated in the workshop. Stages of Change (Prochaska and DiClemente [2005] Handbook of psychotherapy integration. New York: Oxford University Press) and the Learning Transfer Barriers Framework (Price, Miller, Rahm, Brace, & Larson [2010] Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions, 30, 237–245.) provided conceptual underpinnings for project evaluation. Measures Nursing students completed a quiz, postworkshop online surveys at 2 and 8 weeks, and a clinical application report (CAR). Survey data provided information on barriers to the transfer of knowledge from theory class to the clinical setting. Qualitative methods were used to audit the CARs. Each CAR was independently reviewed to determine the Stage of Change reflected in the narrative. Results Workshop evaluation outcomes provide evidence that cultural humility skill building has created behavior change in clinical practice for new health care community/public health nursing providers.
Functional Anatomy of the Canine Left Bundle Branch

Abstract To elucidate the architecture of the left bundle branch, activation of Purkinje (P) and myocardial (M) cells of the canine left ventricular endocardial surface was mapped in vitro before and after lesions were placed in the proximal left bundle branch. Close bipolar electrodes or microelectrodes were employed to record P and M potentials by standard techniques. The left bundle branch has conspicuous and straight border fibers that continue as bridging strands to the papillary muscles. In addition, there is a less conspicuous network of serpentine interwoven fibers in the interior of the septal portion of the bundle that has interconnections with the border fibers. Below the mid-septum and over the free wall the P fibers form a densely interwoven network. The interior septal fibers are activated nearly simultaneously with equidistant points on the border fibers. The apparent conduction velocity of the border fibers was 1.8 m/sec as opposed to 1.45 m/sec in the interior network. The bridging strands provide a shortcut across the chamber to upper portions of the free wall and septum. The pattern of activation of M cells is represented by concentric rings with an island of earliest activation (at 15 to 25 msec) in the central septum. The M cells latest to be activated are at the tips of the papillary muscles and the upper septum below the valves. Interruption of one group of border fibers may delay by 5 to 8 msec activation of P and M cells of the upper paraseptal free wall and upper septum. Lesions in the interior network delay by 2 to 4 msec activation of the P and M cells of comparatively small areas of the septum. Activation of the mid-papillary free walls, the bases of the papillary muscles and the lower septum is not affected by proximal lesions partially interrupting the bundle branch. Transection of both groups of border fibers does not produce complete block. The left bundle branch is best represented as a fan-shaped network of interwoven fibers whose diverging border fibers are specialized for rapid, distant transport.
Early debridement for necrotizing pancreatitis: is it worthwhile?

Abstract BACKGROUND: The timing for debridement of necrotizing pancreatitis is controversial. We reviewed our experience with early and delayed surgical debridement in patients with necrotizing pancreatitis. STUDY DESIGN: The records of patients diagnosed with acute necrotizing pancreatitis from January 1993 through June 2000 were reviewed retrospectively. Data were analyzed with respect to Ranson's, APACHE II, and multiple organ failure scores, etiology, presence of infection, overall and ICU length of stay, time to first debridement, number of debridements, fluid requirements, days to enteral feeding, transfusion requirements, complications, and mortality. RESULTS: Twenty-six patients (18 males, 8 females, mean age 51 years) were diagnosed with acute necrotizing pancreatitis. The admission Ranson's score was 4.8, the APACHE II score was 11.7, and multiple organ failure score was 4.2. All but one patient underwent pancreatic debridement (4.3 debridements per patient). Eighteen patients (69%) had infected pancreatic necrosis. The timing of debridement was based on patients' condition and surgeon's preference. The presentation and demographics of patients who underwent early ( 2 weeks) debridement did not differ significantly. Patients debrided early had a trend toward higher mortality (29% versus 18%) and experienced a higher number of major complications (p Candida in the infected necrosis (p CONCLUSIONS: Early debridement for acute necrotizing pancreatitis might not improve survival and might even be associated with increased number of complications. Most patients diagnosed with necrotizing pancreatitis eventually need debridement, but it might be beneficial to delay debridement if the patient's condition allows for it.
A Three-Dimensional Model of the Resin Film Infusion Process

A finite element code, in modular form, has been developed to model the complete three-dimensional resin film infusion (RFI) process. The problem formulation and its analysis incorporate compaction of the anisotropic elastic porous preform, elastic deformations of the tooling components, heat transfer in the resin, flow of resin through the preform, cure kinetics of the resin, and the heat transfer between the tools and the surrounding environment in the autoclave. The inertia effects and the transfer of heat by convection have been neglected. Two techniques, namely the slideline algorithm and a compliant layer interface, are used to model the possible sliding of the tool over the preform at their common interfaces. Weak forms are derived for (a) the initial-boundary-value problem corresponding to the transient thermal problem, (b) the boundary-value problem for the fluid through an elastic porous medium, and (c) the boundary-value problems for the quasistatic deformations of the tooling components and for a partially or fully saturated porous elastic preform. The finite element method is used to solve these equations, and the flow front is located by using a control volume technique. Computed results are presented for a stiffened T-panel and a two-stiffener panel.
Requirements for optically processing information from a phased array

A receiving array antenna has RF information in the response of its elements that may simultaneously cover many targets in the "radio scene" in front of it. To realize this potential requires an enormous amount of data processing. This data processing could be accomplished efficiently with an "optical data processor," provided a reasonable optical replica of the RF field in the antenna aperture could be realized.
Rheological Property Evolution in Concentrated Cement‐Polyelectrolyte Suspensions

We have studied the rheological property evolution and hydration behavior of pure white portland cement (Type I) pastes and concentrated cement-polyelectrolyte suspensions. Polyelectrolyte species have a marked effect on the initial stability, elastic property evolution (G'(t)), and hydration behavior of this cement system. Pure cement pastes exhibited an initial G' value of ∼10 4 Pa and fully reversible G'(t) behavior until the onset of the acceleratory period (t ∼2 h), where the pastes stiffened irreversibly. In contrast, cement-polyelectrolyte suspensions exhibited initial G' values of ∼1 Pa and G'(t) behavior comprised of both reversible and irreversible features. Their initial G' values, measured after disrupting the particle network under high shear conditions, grew exponentially with hydration time, where G i ' = G i,o ' exp(t/τ c ) and τ c corresponds to the characteristic hydration time determined from calorimetry measurements. Our observations of these cement-polyelectrolyte systems suggest that hydration phenomena impact interparticle forces during early stage hydration and, ultimately, lead to initial setting through the formation of solid bridges at the contact points between particles within the gelled network.
Binding of [3H]PD 128907, a Putatively Selective Ligand for the D3 Dopamine Receptor, in Rat Brain: A Receptor Binding and Quantitative Autoradiographic Study

[3H]PD 128907 has been proposed as a selective ligand for the D3 dopamine receptor. This study characterizes the binding of this radioligand in rat brain using in vitro radioligand binding and autoradiographic methods. In radioligand binding studies, [3H]PD 128907 exhibited 0.3 nmol/L affinity for a single, low density site in ventral striatal membranes. The pharmacological profile for [3H]PD 128907 was similar to that of [3H](+)-7-OH-DPAT with the rank order of potency for dopamine agonists being PD 128907 approximately 7-OH-DPAT approximately quinpirole > or = dopamine; for antagonists, spiperone > (+)-butaclamol approximately domperidone > or = haloperidol > SCH 23390. Guanyl nucleotides had no effect on the binding of either ligand. These observations indicate labeling of a dopaminergic site with characteristics consistent with the D3 receptor. In autoradiographic studies, highest densities of [3H]PD 128907-labeled sites were observed in islands of Calleja followed by the nucleus accumbens, nucleus of the horizontal limb of the diagonal band, the molecular layer of cerebellar lobule X, and the ventral caudate/putamen.
Leptin and the control of pharyngeal patency during sleep in severe obesity.

Rationale: Obesity imposes mechanical loads on the upper airway, resulting in flow limitation and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In previous animal models, leptin has been considered to serve as a ...