cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A criterion for radar resolution enhancement with Burg algorithm

A criterion is established for determining the limit on radar resolution enhancement with Burg algorithm (maximum entropy method (MEM)) by comparing the radar range and Doppler resolution limits of MEM with those obtained by the Fourier transform (FT). Also examined are errors in range and Doppler estimation due to MEM and in Doppler space as contiguous pulses are independently extrapolated to form a new train of pulses prior to Doppler processing. It is found that, for two identical point-scatterers, the MEM (Burg algorithm) has approximately a factor of 2.6 advantage over the FT. Data extrapolation by a factor of 2.6 could thus result in improved range and Doppler resolution; beyond that, the effect is primarily due to the increased size of the data window, with a cosmetic improvement in the appearance of the plotted data. Selection of the filter order is also discussed. A practical technique is proposed to facilitate selection of the filter order when a large number of radar pulses have to be extrapolated pulse-by-pulse, thus ensuring a near-optimum result. The two point-scatterer model is used to characterize performance even as the complexity of the target increases from two point-scatterers to two spheres and to a circular cone and finally to a range-Doppler image of a circular cone. Errors in range and Doppler are also characterized by the two point-scatterer model. Doppler error can cause distortion or even sign change in some cases, as exemplified by a conical target with a small surface scatterer The amplitude and the phase errors for each of the two scatterers are also evaluated as a function of the signal-to-noise (SNR). Both are sensitive to the initial phase of the interfering sinusoid. Thus, for a SNR of less than 15 dB, the amplitude error becomes too large to be acceptable. In addition, spurious artifacts may occur due to large pulse-to-poise phase errors. Despite the potential for errors, the comparison clearly establishes the intrinsic gain in the resolution of up to 2.6/spl times/2.6 for a typical range-Doppler image. It is recommended that the methodology discussed here be applied in order to quantify the relative merits of other algorithms that may be used for resolution enhancement. >
Development of a rapid resistance monitoring bioassay for codling moth larvae.

BACKGROUND: The codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), is one of the most important pests of apple worldwide. Use of insecticides for management of this insect has been extensive and has resulted in resistance development. There are a number of different bioassay methods to monitor for codling moth resistance; however, many are not applicable to new insecticides and most are time consuming. A novel 16-well plasticware bioassay plate containing lyophilized diet was developed for rapid resistance monitoring of codling moth. RESULTS: The contact insecticides acetamiprid and azinphosmethyl were significantly more toxic to neonates than to fourth instars. However, there was no significant difference in LC50 values between neonates and fourth instars to the ingestion insecticides chlorantraniliprole, methoxyfenozide, novaluron and spinetoram. Field colonies of codling moth were significantly more resistant to methoxyfenozide than susceptible populations. A diagnostic dose of 20 µg mL−1 (LC99) was established to monitor for codling moth resistance to methoxyfenozide. CONCLUSIONS: The results presented here demonstrate that a novel and rapid bioassay can be used to monitor for codling moth resistance to methoxyfenozide. The bioassay method is relevant to both ingestion and contact insecticides, but a single diagnostic dose, regardless of larval age, is only relevant to ingestion insecticides. Age-dependent diagnostic doses are likely necessary for contact insecticides. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Faster than real time robot simulation with real time feedback

The integration of operational sensory feedback with the sensed world model database is discussed, with the focus on the development of a database model of the environment which has the following three characteristics: a basic level of intelligence whereby information about individual objects, as well as repair and maintenance steps, is readily accessible; a degree of accuracy which allows for autonomous offline path planning or time-accelerated interactive path planning; and a means of comparing feedback sensor information with the information stored in the database. A rapid comparison is needed so that objects not modeled in the database can be identified in real time. Compatibility between the preplanned model environment and the as-encountered plant environment will significantly aid in the interpretation of sensor data. >
Development of a prototype electronic alternator for DIN/PACS environment and its evaluation

A prototype electronic alternator (EA) has been implemented utilizing an advanced image processing workstation and evaluated for its clinical acceptability as a primary diagnostic workstation. The workstation is based on a PIXAR II image computer and is a node on the University of Washington Digital Imaging Network and Picture Archiving and Communications System (DIN/PACS, hereafter PACS). The goals of this study are to utilize the unique features ofthe workstation (large image memory, a high-speed parallel transfer disk (PTD), and a 2560 x 2048 high-resolution image monitor) to demonstrate the feasibility of a limited model of the EA as a primary diagnostic workstation in the PACS environment, to evaluate its capability in image viewing and diagnosis, and to assess the feasibility of an icon-based user interface to select and rearrange images on the monitor. In this paper, various characteristics of the prototype EA such as image display and processing performance, image storage capacity, and functional specification as well as the results of a clinical evaluation are presented. The main emphasis of the clinical evaluation was on system speed, image quality, and user preference for an icon-based user interface.
Quantification and regulation of the subcellular distribution of bile acid coenzyme A:amino acid N-acyltransferase activity in rat liver

Bile acid coenzyme A:amino acid N-acyltransferase (BAT) is responsible for the amidation of bile acids with the amino acids glycine and taurine. To quantify total BAT activity in liver subcellular organelles, livers from young adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were fractionated into multiple subcellular compartments. In male and female rats, 65-75% of total liver BAT activity was found in the cytosol, 15-17% was found in the peroxisomes, and 5-10% was found in the heavy mitochondrial fraction. After clofibrate treatment, male rats displayed an increase in peroxisomal BAT specific activity and a decrease in cytosolic BAT specific activity, whereas females showed an opposite response. However, there was no overall change in BAT specific activity in whole liver homogenate. Treatment with rosiglitazone or cholestyramine had no effect on BAT activity in any subcellular compartment. These experiments indicate that the majority of BAT activity in the rat liver resides in the cytosol. Approximately 15% of BAT activity is present in the peroxisomal matrix. These data support the novel finding that clofibrate treatment does not directly regulate BAT activity but does alter the subcellular localization of BAT.
A MetaNet architecture for end-to-end quality of service (QoS) over disparate networks

In this work we investigate an architecture for resource provisioning and route selection over multiple disparate networks. We have developed a layered hierarchy of internetworking and intranetworking levels of management called a MetaNet. Management at the internetwork level is conducted in a manner that models each network abstractly. At the intranetwork level management accounts for the detailed implementation and organizational characteristics of each network. The paper explores how to employ these layers to cooperatively satisfy end-to-end requests for connectivity with an associated QoS. In addition, we explore negotiation between the inter- and intranetwork levels of management and brokering of QoS by the internetwork level among the intranetwork level managers.
Peripheral But Crucial: a Hydrophobic Pocket (Tyr**706, Leu**337, and Met**336) for Potent and Selective Inhibition of Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase

Abstract Selective inhibition of the neuronal isoform of nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) over endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) has become a promising strategy for the discovery of new therapeutic agents for neurodegenerative diseases. However, because of the high sequence homology of different isozymes in the substrate binding pocket, developing inhibitors with both potency and excellent isoform selectivity remains a challenging problem. Herein, we report the evaluation of a recently discovered peripheral hydrophobic pocket (Tyr706, Leu337, and Met336) that opens up upon inhibitor binding and its potential in designing potent and selective nNOS inhibitors using three compounds, 2a, 2b, and 3. Crystal structure results show that inhibitors 2a and 3 adopted the same binding mode as lead compound 1. We also found that hydrophobic interactions between the 4-methyl group of the aminopyridine ring of these compounds with the side chain of Met336, as well as the π–π stacking interaction between the pyridinyl motif and the side chain of Tyr706 are important for the high potency and selectivity of these nNOS inhibitors.
The Complexity of the Annihilating Polynomial

Let F be a field and f_1, ..., f_k in F[x_1, ..., x_n] be a set of k polynomials of degree d in n variables over the field F. These polynomials are said to be algebraically dependent if there exists a nonzero k-variate polynomial A(t_1, ..., t_k) in F[t_1, ..., t_k] such that A(f_1, ..., f_k) = 0. A is then called an (f_1, ..., f_k)-annihilating polynomial. Within computer science, the notion of algebraic dependence was used in Dvir, Gabizon and Wigderson to construct explicit deterministic extractors from low-degree polynomial sources. They also observed that given (f_1, ..., f_k) as arithmetic circuits, there exists an efficient randomized algorithm for testing their algebraic independence. The problems of determining good bounds on the degree of the annihilating polynomial and of computing it explicitly were posed as open questions. We solve the two posed problems in the following way: ≫≫ We give closely matching upper and lower bounds for the degree of the annihilating polynomial. ≫≫ We show that it is NP-hard to decide if A(0, .. ,0) equals zero. Indeed the annihilating polynomial A(t_1, .., t_k)$ does not even admit a small circuit representation unless the polynomial hierarchy collapses. This then, to the best of our knowledge, is the only natural computational problem where determining the existence of an object (the annihilating polynomial in our case) can be done efficiently but the actual computation of the object is provably hard.
Spillover Asymmetry and Why It Matters

Although spillovers are a crucial factor in determining the optimal environment for innovation, there is no consensus regarding their impact on firm behavior. One reason for this may be that models differ in their assumptions for the functional form of the spillover pool. In industrial organization and economic geography, for example, the predominant convention is that all innovation within an industry/region contributes to a spillover pool that has a common value for all firms. An alternative convention prevalent in endogenous growth and evolutionary economics is that spillovers have directionality---the size of the relevant pool differs across firms. Knowing the correct functional form may facilitate theoretical consensus, either analytically (by modifying models' assumptions) or empirically (by supporting a critical test of competing theories). We characterize and test the functional form of spillover pools for efficiency-enhancing innovation across 50 markets in the banking industry. Our results in that setting are consistent with expectations for asymmetric spillovers but inconsistent with expectations for pooled spillovers.
In Vitro Model Systems for the Study of Hormonal Control of Mammary Gland Growth and Differentiation

In vivo studies of mammary function in whole animals have contributed greatly to our understanding of multihormonal control and differentiated function. Because of the extreme complexity of the hormone environment in vivo, however, in vitro culture techniques are indispensible if the roles of hormones in mammary cell function are to be fully defined. In particular, animal model systems are very useful for in vitro studies because the hormonal background of the animal can be manipulated prior to culture and sufficient material can be readily obtained. Cultures can be monitored for growth (cell division) similar to that occurring during puberty or pregnancy, the appearance of mRNAs specific for milk proteins, the synthesis and secretion of casein, α-lactalbumin, lactose, and triglycerides that constitute lactation, and the metabolic changes that occur during involution. In this way, mammary development can be examined in its various stages and the effects of purified hormones can be tested. A number of techniques have been devised for the study of these aspects of mammary development in vitro. The advantages of each and the information so far obtained will be discussed.
Resistance to diflubenzuron in the codling moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae).

Codling moth, Cyndia Pomona ella (L.), from pear in the Bedford, Oreg., area showed resistance to the chitin synthesis inhibitor diflubenzuron in laboratory and orchard studies. In the orchard this was shown in 1984 and 1985 as 54.5-63.6% damage at harvest compared with 0.8-2.0% damage occurring in another similarly treated orchard. Concentration-mortality studies later in 1985 and early 1986 showed about a 2-fold difference in susceptibility (LC30= 52.6 and 59.1 mg [All/liter versus 37.9 and 28.2 mg [All/liter) between the two populations based on the response of eggs of the F3. and F4. laboratory-reared generations to residues on the treated fruits. When results from exposure of eggs to a single discriminating concentration of diflubenzuron (112.3 mg [All/liter) were compared, the diflubenzuron-resistant population showed a significantly higher survival (≤29.2-fold). Studies in the same orchard in 1986 again showed a lack of control (35% damage) with a normal concentration. Higher concentrations of 2 times and 4 times normal showed 15% and 8% damage, respectively. This is the first report of resistance to diflubenzuron in the codling moth. This occurrence of resistance is unusual because it appeared the first time this population was exposed to diflubenzuron without previous exposure to related chemicals, whereas the population in another similarly treated orchard retained a high degree of susceptibility after approximately 8 yr of exposure to diflubenzuron. The causes or mechanisms for this develpment of resistance to diflubenzuron in the codling moth remain to be determined.
Picture Me Playing: Increasing Pretend Play Dialogue of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

This study examined the effectiveness of the Picture Me Playing intervention for increasing the play dialogue of preschool children with ASD during pretend play opportunities with typical peers. Picture Me Playing is a pictorially enhanced, script based intervention targeting character role play through a narrative vignette. A single-treatment counterbalanced design was utilized to contrast the performance of intervention and comparison groups, followed by within-subject analysis. Results indicated significant increases in play dialogue represented by both scripted and novel utterances. Results generalized to an unscripted play opportunity with novel toys.
Tissue-type plasminogen activator as a therapeutic target in stroke.

Background: Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and recombinant human tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) is the prominent therapeutic among very few therapeutics used in its treatment. Due to complications attributed to the drug, most notably transformation of ischemia to hemorrhage, tPA is only used in a small number of ischemic stroke cases, albeit significantly more often in specialized stroke centers. Objective: What are the mechanisms of tPA action and side effects in ischemic stroke, and can the knowledge about these mechanisms aid in making tPA a more efficacious and safe therapeutic or in developing alternative therapeutics? Methods: tPA use and alternative/combination therapies in acute ischemic stroke treatment are summarized. The review focuses on literature concerning tPA neurotoxicity and its implications for further development of tPA as a stroke therapeutic. Results/conclusion: Exogenously administered recombinant tPA and endogenous tPA have both tur...
An iconic position estimator for a 2D laser rangefinder

The authors present an iconic approach for estimating the pose of a mobile robot equipped with a radial laser rangefinder that requires minimal structure in the environment. The algorithm uses a connected set of short line segments to approximate the shape of any environment and can easily be constructed by the rangefinder itself. The authors describe techniques for efficiently managing the environment map, matching the sensor data to the map and computing the robot's position. Accuracy and runtime results for the implementation are included. >
Dietary Prevention of Adult Macular Degeneration

Adult macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in those over 55 in the United States (US). Treatment of AMD is not very successful, therefore finding ways to prevent or slow the progression of the disease is important. The development of AMD is described in this chapter. Because the pathogenesis is thought to begin with hardening of the retinal arteries, dietary research has focused on fats and antioxidants that have been shown to be effective in decreasing the risk for cardiovascular disease.
Wastewater treatment in microbial fuel cells – an overview

Environmental issues associated with water sanitation are not confined to developing countries alone but are the most basic human and environmental necessities all over the world. Wastewater sources are major causes for environmental pollution in surface and ground water bodies. Current wastewater treatment technologies are not sustainable to meet the ever growing water sanitation needs due to rapid industrialization and population growth, simply because they are energy- and cost-intensive leaving latitude for development of technologies that are energy-conservative or energy-yielding. For the present and future context, microbial fuel cells technology may present a sustainable and an environmentally friendly route to meet the water sanitation needs. Microbial fuel cell based wastewater systems employ bioelectrochemical catalytic activity of microbes to produce electricity from the oxidation of organic, and in some cases inorganic, substrates present in urban sewage, agricultural, dairy, food and industrial wastewaters. This article presents the potential for energy generation and comprehensive wastewater treatment in microbial fuel cells. The article provides an overview of recent literature with two specific aims. First, it provides an overview of current energy needs for wastewater treatment and potential energy recovery options followed by a comprehensive review of the principles of wastewater treatment, substrate utilization (organic removal), recent process developments, nutrient and metal removal capacities in microbial fuel cells. Several issues related to process performance, organic removal capacities and potential environmental impacts were discussed in detail. From the economic and life cycle assessment point of view, although recent developments in power production are encouraging, important discoveries in electrode materials, innovative and integrated process configurations along with experience in pilot scale studies are urgently required to determine the real potential of the microbial fuel cell technology to provide sustainable and energy-positive wastewater treatment.
Abstract TP113: Arginase-1 and S100a12 are Novel Candidates for the Study of Post Stroke Immune Suppression

Objective: Stroke-induced immune suppression is common and clinically observed by the neutrophil- lymphocyte count ratio (NLR). The NLR can predict stroke recovery. The purpose of this study was to identify the relationships between the NLR and our previously established genomic profile for the characterization of immune pathways affecting stroke recovery. Methods: Patients with imaging confirmed ischemic stroke (IS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA) were recruited from West Virginia University Hospital (WVUH) in Morgantown, WV. White blood cell (WBC) differentials were performed on admission then analyzed as a ratio between the neutrophil and lymphocyte counts. Recovery was determined at 90 days for stroke patients only via the Modified Rankin Scale score (MRS). Peripheral blood samples were collected within 24 hours from symptom onset in Paxgene RNA tubes. Total RNA was extracted, amplified, and the expression of ARG1, CA4, CCR7, CSPG2, IQGAP, LY96, MMP9, ORM1, and S100a12 was quantified via Taqman PCR. The gene expression profile was compared to the NLR and MRS via Spearman rho correlation coefficient. Results: A total of 9 IS and 4 TIA patients were included in this study. The mean age of the IS patients was 72 years and TIA patients 70 years. Expression of ARG1 was significantly correlated with elevated NLR at baseline (r=.93, p=.001) for both IS and TIA and poor 90 day MRS (r=.86, p=.01) following IS. Elevated expression of S100A12 was correlated with higher neutrophil count (r=.67, p=.07) and total WBC (r= .78, p=.02) as well as with ARG1 expression (r=0.72; p=0.008) in both patient cohorts. Conclusion: We have identified a significant correlation between the expression of ARG1, S100a12 and the NLR for IS and TIA patients, as well as with ARG1 and outcome following IS. Elevated ARG1 decreases T-cell proliferation resulting in immune suppression. S100A12 modulates neutrophil activity. Our data suggests that ARG1 and S100A12 are interesting candidates for the study of the immune response following cerebral ischemia. Further studies are required to confirm this relationship when controlling for age, disease severity and comorbid conditions.
X-ray Diffraction for Acid Soaps

A little previous work has been published on X-ray diffraction of acid potassium soaps. Piper reported a paper which gives only the long 'spacings for a series of acid potassium soaps and recently, Dumbleton reported the lattice constant of acid potassium myristate. In this paper, X-ray investigation on acid potassium caprate, laurate, palmitate, stearate are reported. Acid potassium caprate and laurate were grown from ethanol solution in elongated parallelepiped form (Fig.-1·1), and acid potassium palmitate and stearate were in plates (Fig.-1·3). Acid potassium myristate is crystallized from hot alcohol in the elongated parallelepiped form (Fig. -1·2), but by slow precipitation it gives plate form (Fig.-1-3). The X-ray diffraction patterns showed remarkable difference between the elongated parallelepiped forms and the plates (Fig.-3·1). The cell dimensions for parallelepiped form were determined (Table-1). It was concluded that there were two phases in acid soaps, one was elongated parallelepiped form (pseud-orthorhombic), and another was plate form (triclinic). It seemed that the stable phase for laurate and caprate was the former, while that for myristate, palmitate and stearate was the latter.
Effect of Pressure on High-Temperature Water Gas Shift Reaction in Microporous Zeolite Membrane Reactor

A water gas shift (WGS) membrane reactor (MR) has been constructed using a MFI-type zeolite disk membrane packed with a cerium-doped ferrite catalyst. The WGS reaction was performed at high temperatures of 400–550 °C, and the effect of reaction pressure on the MR performance was investigated in a range from 2 to 6 atm with the permeate side swept by nitrogen at atmospheric pressure. Increasing temperature and pressure enhance both the reaction rate and the rate of H2 membrane permeation that in turn significantly enhances the CO conversion. The equilibrium limit of CO conversion can be surpassed in the MR at high pressure and/or high temperature. It has been demonstrated in this study that membranes with moderate H2 selectivity can be effective for enhancing CO conversion at high operation temperature and pressure with the cost of low H2 concentration in the permeate stream. The timely removal of H2 from the catalyst bed dramatically reduced the undesirable methane production because H2 is a reactant for ...
Large Power Frequency Magnetic Field Exposure System for Long Term Animal Experiments

To provide a basis for studying effects of environmental magnetic field on human health,we designed,manufactured,and tested a large power frequency magnetic field exposure system for long-term animal experiments.Based on the computation of magnetic field produced by a pair of current-carrying square coils,the parameters of coils and power sources were chosen to generate specific magnetic field,then 4 exposure systems were fabricated according to these parameters.Each of the finished magnetic field exposure systems was composed of two square coils with a side length of 5 m and a 2 m interval between themselves.According to further calculation and tests,the working area,where the magnetic flux density was within the 90%-110% of the target value,was a square area of 4 m×4 m,which was 56% larger than that produced by Helmholtz coils.Two strands of copper wires with different current directions were winded on the same coil skeleton to form a bifilar choke as control,which successfully eliminated the influence of heat produced by coils and noise generated by power sources between different experiments.Reactive power compensation was used to lower the output voltage of the power source as well as its cost.Results show that the proposed apparatus can be used in studies of health risk under long-term magnetic field exposure.
AFFH Metrics for Affordable Housing Programs: An Approach to Assessing the Spatial Distribution of Housing Subsidies in Large Jurisdictions in the Assessment of Fair Housing

With the 2015 issuance of the final rules for Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH), jurisdictions that receive funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) are now provided with data and tools necessary to conduct the analysis of fair housing issues specific to their area. They have been asked by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to assess their fair housing performance and generate fair housing goals based on their findings from using the tools and data. However, little guidance has been given regarding how a jurisdiction should actually develop quantitative measures or reasonable “metrics and milestones” in order to assess performance and set specific, measureable goals. We use the HUD-provided AFFH data for Gwinnett County, Georgia – a large suburban entitlement community in the Atlanta metropolitan area – to establish some generalizable methods for assessing one aspect of fair housing concern – the neighborhood distribution of affordable housing subsidies. The method can also be used to set fair housing goals in this area.
Electrostatic RF MEMS switch working on 500–750 GHz

This work presents the design, simulation, and fabrication of a 500–750 GHz RF MEMS switch. The switch is designed on a high-resistivity silicon substrate using CPW. Electrostatic force generated by DC bias can actuate the beam to realize conduction or isolation between input and output CPW. HFSS simulations demonstrate that the switch's isolation is 14 dB at 620 GHz and 12 dB at 750 GHz in the OFF state. In the ON state, the insertion loss is approximately 2.5 dB, and at 750 GHz it drops to around 3.5 dB. At the same time, the return loss stays above 15 dB, which presents a good match between the input and output CPW lines. In this paper, low frequency and high frequency switch models are provided. Fabricated device is shown in pictures with details. The fabricated device is currently under measurement and will be presented at the conference.
Chemically Reacting SiO2, H2O, and SiO2 + H2O Systems under High Pressure and Temperature

When we simulate dynamic physical processes with a computer, we must know the equation of state (EOS) for the materials in question. The more accurate the equation of state, the closer the program can simulate the physical reality. This study was undertaken to obtain equation of state expressions for silicon dioxide (SiO2), water (H2O), and SiO2 + H2O mixture. Such expressions are of primary interest to the designers of underground nuclear tests because cavity size, pressure, and other seismic disturbances of the explosion depend on the state properties of rock media. To date, a rather crude EOS expression (such as an ideal-gas law) has been used to satisfy an actual need.
Does Timing of Internal Medicine Residency Interview Affect Likelihood of Matching

Objectives Applicants to our internal medicine (IM) residency program consistently have shared concerns about whether the interview date influences their ability to match via the National Residency Matching Program. We performed a retrospective study to assess whether interview timing was associated with successful matching at our IM program. Methods We identified all of the applicants who interviewed for a first-year position with our IM residency program from 2010 to 2014. Each year's interview dates were totaled and divided equally into three categories: early, middle, or late. Baseline demographics, United States Medical Licensing Examination scores, and type of medical school (American or international) were compared among the interview date groups and between those who did and did not match at our program. Results Of 914 interviewees, 311 interviewed early (October/November), 299 interviewed in the middle (December), and 304 interviewed late (January). The proportion to match at our program was similar in each interview group (12.5%, 18.4%, 15.1%, respectively; P = 0.133). Logistic regression analysis showed that the middle interview group had increased odds to match compared with the early group (odds ratio 1.590; P = 0.044). The late-versus-early group showed no difference (P = 0.362). No significant differences were found with type of medical school or United States Medical Licensing Examination scores. Of all of the interviewees participating in the match, nearly all matched into a program somewhere, with no significant difference based on interview timing. Conclusions When considering all of the interviewees, interview date showed no major influence on matching. Only the middle interview time period showed a slight increased chance of matching to our IM program, but the significance was marginal.
Use of EDTA for palynomorph extraction from evaporites

Presence of palynomorph assemblages that display exquisite preservation in evaporite deposits makes them invaluable as age indicators, as often no other fossils are present. However, such use of palynomorphs has been extremely limited because of complications in extraction from the surrounding rock material. Palynomorphs found in evaporites frequently cannot be removed by conventional uses of hydrofluoric and hydrochloric acids, or by modifications of these techniques (Sittler, 1955; Freudenthal, 1964; and Visscher, 1966), as neither acid is capable of removing significant quantities of sulfate minerals. Inadequate removal of these minerals prevents a good concentration of spores and pollen and hinders the preparation of useful microscope slide mounts.
Abstract # 1844 A high-sensitivity magnetic multiplex assay detects changes in plasma concentrations of interleukin-6 induced by the Trier Social Stress Test

Concern exists about whether or not multiplex assays are sensitive enough to detect subtle yet biologically relevant changes in circulating concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers such as interleukin (IL)-6 in healthy humans. We tested two different multiplex kits (human Magnetic Luminex Performance Assay, RD and human Cytokine/Chemokine Magnetic Bead Panel, Millipore [Billerica, MA]) to detect IL-6 concentration changes versus a high sensitivity (HS)-ELISA (R&D Systems) in plasma collected from eighteen healthy adults (mean age 35.3 [SD = 8.88]) (10 women) before and 90 and 210 min after the start of an acute laboratory psychosocial stressor, the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). Multiplexes were completed per manufacturer instructions and analyzed using a MAGPIX (Luminex, Austin, TX). For the R&D multiplex, IL-6 was detected in all samples and values were associated with concentrations determined by HS-ELISA ( r = 0.81, p p = 0.46). To examine associations between IL-6 responses to the TSST we computed areas under the curve (AUCs) using the trapezoidal method. AUCs were positively correlated between the R&D multiplex and HS-ELISA ( r = 0.83, p = 0.001), but not between the Millipore multiplex and HS-ELISA. These results suggest that certain multiplex assays may be able to detect changes in plasma concentrations of IL-6 as a result of TSST challenge.
2D numerical analysis of energy harvesting in oscillating heat pipe using piezoelectric transducers

Energy Harvesting is a powerful process that deals with exploring different possible ways of converting energy dispersed in the environment into more useful form of energy, essentially electrical energy. Piezoelectric materials are known for their ability of transferring mechanical energy into electrical energy or vice versa. Our work takes advantage of piezoelectric material’s properties to covert thermal energy into electrical energy in an oscillating heat pipe. Specific interest in an oscillating heat pipe has relevance to energy harvesting for low power generation suitable for remote electronics operation as well as low-power heat reclamation for electronic packaging. The aim of this paper is develop a 2D multi-physics design analysis model that aids in predicting electrical power generation inherent to an oscillating heat pipe. The experimental design shows a piezoelectric patch with fixed configuration, attached inside an oscillating heat pipe and its behavior when subjected to the oscillating fluid pressure was observed. Numerical analysis of the model depicting the similar behavior was done using a multiphysics FEA software. The numerical model consists of a threeway physics interaction that takes into account fluid flow, solid mechanics, and electrical response of the harvester circuit.
Auditory Motion Induces Directionally Dependent Receptive Field Shifts in Inferior Colliculus Neurons

Wilson, Willard W. and William E. O'Neill. Auditory motion induces directionally dependent receptive field shifts in inferior colliculus neurons. J. Neurophysiol. 79: 2040–2062, 1998. This research...
Form seeking function: An exploratory content analysis evaluation of the imagery contained in law enforcement agency police officer recruitment brochures

The current exploratory study incorporates conceptual content analysis as a means of examining the imagery contained within a selected sample of police department recruitment brochures. The study e...
Marantic Endocarditis (ME) Markedly Reduces Survival in Cancer Patients with Ischemic Stroke (P07.002)

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether ME reduces survival in cancer patients with ischemic stroke. BACKGROUND: The incidence and outcome of ME in cancer patients is poorly defined. DESIGN/METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of consecutive inpatients with active cancer diagnosed with MRI-proven acute ischemic stroke at Memorial Sloan-Kettering from 2006-2009. Two independent reviewers classified stroke etiologies into prespecified categories, with differences adjudicated by consensus. We defined confirmed ME as echocardiographic or pathologic evidence of cardiac valve vegetation in the absence of positive blood cultures, and suspected ME as an undetermined stroke mechanism with an embolic-appearing radiographic infarct pattern. We compared the survival of patients with confirmed or suspected ME to those with strokes from all other causes using Kaplan-Meier statistics and the log-rank test. Cox proportional hazard analysis was performed to assess ME as a predictor of mortality independent of age, discharge modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, and presence of metastases. RESULTS: Of 213 study patients, 67 (31%) had confirmed (n=9) or suspected (n=58) ME, while large artery atherosclerosis (23%) and atrial fibrillation (18%) were common stroke mechanisms in the non-ME group. Demographics and cancer type were comparable between groups--gastrointestinal and lung accounted for 37% and 34% of primary cancers in the ME group and 22% and 28% in the non-ME group. Patients with ME more commonly had adenocarcinoma histology (75% vs. 53%), metastases (84% vs. 67%), and unfavorable discharge mRS (67% vs. 50%). Survival was significantly lower in patients with ME compared to those without ME (53% vs. 82% at 30 days and 28% vs. 61% at 90 days; p-value CONCLUSIONS: Strokes due to confirmed or suspected ME are associated with markedly reduced survival, independent of cancer extent and neurological disability. Disclosure: Dr. Singer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Stone has nothing to disclose. Dr. Merkler has nothing to disclose. Dr. Cheng has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kamel has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for Journal Watch Neurology. Dr. DeAngelis has received personal compensation for activities with the NFL Players Association as a consultant. Dr. Navi has nothing to disclose.
Introduction – How does one go from bone mineral density measurements to a diagnosis of osteoporosis

Bone mineral content (BMC) is a measure of the mineral found in bone. Bone mineral density (BMD) is a mathematical ratio of the measured mineral content in a de fi ned area of bone. The measured BMD is not a true cubic density. Other densities within and around a bone and the area of bone measured can affect the accuracy of the BMD.
Convention, Necessity, and the Concept of Literature

RECENTLY THE CRITICAL COMMUNITY has rediscovered the rhetorical dimension of critical activity. 1 In part, this is a recovery of what it means to be a community; in part, it is a renewed understanding that criticism is a mode of action; and in part, it is a discovery of the conventionality of the concept of literature. These truths have led to a change in the critical community's understanding of the concept of literature and to an increased awareness of the role of the critic in the constitution of literature as an object. In a rhetorically understood criticism, the critic is no longer simply a discoverer or explicator of a text whose value is somehow internal to it; rather, the text's value is understood as at least partly a product of the critic's values. This understanding of literature returns a responsibility to the critic that was lost when critics considered the text as autonomous. Critics like Terry Eagleton and Frank Lentricchia have begun to explore the social responsibilities that become apparent once criticism is understood to be a rhetorical activity.2 But another aspect of this new responsibility of the critic has not been given sufficient attention. When critics conceive of literature as a conventional concept, can they locate and justify a set of constraints for the activity of interpretation? Is the critic in any way bound to the text before him or her? Does a critic have any responsibilities that follow from the activity of reading when that activity is conceived rhetorically? In what way, if any, does the text, conceived as a product of a communal interpretive effort, limit a critic? Perhaps Stanley Fish, more than anyone else, has raised these questions. The difficulties en-
The physiological and psychological effects of intravenously administered epinephrine and its metabolism in normal and schizophrenic men. II. Psychiatric observations.

Twelve “normal control” volunteers and twelve chronic schizophrenic patients received intravenous of isotopically labelled epinephrine in a complex experimental situation permitting simultaneous study of multiple biological and psychological variables. The major psychological changes accompanying epinephrine infusion were: (a) increased arousal, (b) narrowing of the field of attention, (c) change of direction of attention toward inner body experience, (d) resultant difficulty in communication and concentration and (e) subjective feelings of anxiety. Some “normal control” volunteer subjects distinguished these anxiety feelings from actual life-situation anxiety. There was no qualitative difference in the psychological response of the schizophrenic and the “normal control” groups to epinephrine infusion. In neither “normal control” volunteers, nor schizophrenic patients, did epinephrine cause the appearance or exacerbation of psychotic symptoms. There were two instances of increase of psychotic behavior during or after the epinephrine infusion in schizophrenic patients, but these could not be attributed to the epinephine per se; and seemed more clearly related to situational variables. This result fails to support hypotheses which attribute the origin of schizophrenic symptoms to an abnormality in the metabolism of epinephrine. Quantitative differences between the schizophrenic and “normal control” subjects showed that, as a group, the schizophrenic subjects were much less able to cope with the experimental situation (p = <0·002), showed more anxiety in response to the situation (p = <0·02) but less in response to epinephrine (p = <0·02), and ranked lower on involvement-communication (p = <0·02). It is believed that a major factor in the smaller anxiety response during epinephrine infusion in the schizophrenic patient group, compared to the “normal control” group, was its higher situational anxiety baseline. Differences between schizophrenic and “normal control” subjects in their ability to cope with an experimental situation, and in their resultant situational anxiety, are judged to be widely prevalent in research studies comparing schizophrenic and “normal control” subjects. Such differences must be given careful consideration before concluding that a particular hypothesis being investigated has or has not been validated.
Managing forest disturbances and community responses: lessons from the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska.

Managing forest disturbances can be complicated by diverse human community responses. Interviews and quantitative analysis of mail surveys were used to assess risk perceptions and community actions in response to forest disturbance by spruce bark beetles. Despite high risk perception of immediate threats to personal safety and property, risk perceptions of broader threats to community and ecological well-being were found to be more likely to influence participation in community action. Results imply that increased dialogue between resource managers and local community residents contributes to broader risk assessment and prioritization of risk mitigation strategies. Identifying community risk perceptions, tapping into local capacities for action, and accepting controversy facilitate sound decisionmaking and give voice to local concerns regarding risk mitigation after forest disturbance.
The Role of High-Fidelity Team-Based Simulation in Acute Care Settings: A Systematic Review

Introduction High-fidelity team-based simulation has been identified as an effective way of teaching and evaluating both technical and nontechnical skills. Several studies have described the benefits of this modality in a variety of acute care settings, but a lack of standardized methodologies has resulted in heterogeneous findings. Few studies have characterized high fidelity simulation across a broad range of acute care settings and integrated the latest evidence on its educational and patient impact. Methods The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO databases were searched for empirical studies from the last 10 years, investigating high fidelity team-based simulation in surgical, trauma, and critical care training curricula. Results Seventeen studies were included. Interventions and evaluations were comprehensively characterized for each study and were discussed in the context of four overarching acute care settings: the emergency department/trauma bay, the operating room, the intensive care unit, and inpatient ad hoc resuscitation teams. Conclusions The use of high-fidelity team-based simulation has expanded in acute care and is feasible and effective in a wide variety of specialized acute settings, including the emergency department/trauma bay, the operating room, the intensive care unit, and inpatient ad hoc resuscitation teams. Training programs have evolved to emphasize team-based, multidisciplinary education models and are often conducted in situ to maximize authenticity. In situ simulations have also provided the opportunity for system-level improvement and discussions of complex topics such as social hierarchy. There is limited evidence supporting the impact of simulation on patient outcomes, sustainability of simulation efforts, or cost-effectiveness of training programs. These areas warrant further research now that the scope of utilization across acute care settings has been characterized.
Overall and subgroup prevalence of acne vulgaris among patients with hidradenitis suppurativa.

Background Evidence establishing a link between acne vulgaris (AV) and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is limited, and the burden of AV in adults with HS is unknown. Objective To determine the prevalence of AV among adults with HS and determine the strength of this association. Methods Cross-sectional analysis identifying adults with AV among patients with and without HS by using electronic health record data from a population-based sample of more than 55 million patients. Results The prevalence of AV among adults with HS was 15.2% (7315 of 48,085) compared with 2.9% (497,360 of 16,899,470) for adults without HS (P Limitations Influence of disease severity in HS, or in acne, on the strength of the association could not be assessed. Conclusion Patients with HS may benefit from assessment of acne status and optimization of comanagement strategies.
Management of Tube-Related Hypotony Using Ab Interno Placement of Multifilament Nylon Suture to Reduce Flow.

Abstract Hypotony occurs in 5% of patients following tube-shunt procedures. We conducted in vitro experiments to determine flow resistance conferred by occluding the tube with 3-0 multi-filament nylon suture and report its outcome for 4 patients.
Generation of inactive renin in vitro and in vivo reversible inactivation of the active plasma enzyme in rats

1. Active and total (trypsin treatment) plasma renins were measured in normal Wistar rats and in rats in which the renin-angiotensin system was stimulated by ether anaesthesia. 2. After incubation of normal plasma in vitro in the absence of angiotensinase inhibitors, active renin declined. This decline was shown to be due to the conversion of active renin into an inactive form, which could be re-activated by trypsin. 3. In plasma from renin-stimulated rats, the rate of decline of active renin in vitro was accelerated; however, the relative amount of inactive renin generated was decreased. 4. Ligation of the kidneys of the ether-anaesthetized animal resulted in a build-up in vivo of inactive renin concomitant with the decline of active renin. 5. These data demonstrate the conversion of active into inactive renin in vitro and indicate that inactive renin can also be generated in vivo from the active form of the enzyme. 6. Multiple forms of inactive renin may exist; some may be true ‘prorenins’ (renin zymogens) produced in the kidney, and others may result from post-biosynthetic modifications of the active plasma enzyme.