cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Some effects of duration on vowel recognition

This study was designed to examine the role of duration in vowel perception by testing listeners on the identification of CVC syllables generated at different durations. Test signals consisted of synthesized versions of 300 utterances selected from a large, multitalker database of /hVd/ syllables [Hillenbrand et al., J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 97, 3099–3111 (1995)]. Four versions of each utterance were synthesized: (1) an original duration set (vowel duration matched to the original utterance), (2) a neutral duration set (duration fixed at 272 ms, the grand mean across all vowels), (3) a short duration set (duration fixed at 144 ms, two standard deviations below the mean), and (4) a long duration set (duration fixed at 400 ms, two standard deviations above the mean). Experiment 1 used a formant synthesizer, while a second experiment was an exact replication using a sinusoidal synthesis method that represented the original vowel spectrum more precisely than the formant synthesizer. Findings included (1) duration ...
THE PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN AND THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH SKIN DISORDERS

Scientific advances have altered the nature of primary care medicine. Primary care providers are increasingly asked to care for a broad spectrum of common maladies, including cutaneous disease. We review studies that have compared primary care physicians with dermatologists with respect to the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders. Though primary care providers play a crucial role in the delivery of health care, the judicious and appropriate use of dermatology consultation should be encouraged.
Reform, Tradition, and Synthesis

(1999). Reform, Tradition, and Synthesis. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 106, No. 10, pp. 910-914.
Dissociation of responses to phytohaemagglutinin and adult allogeneic lymphocytes in human foetal lymphoid tissues.

IN vitro reactivity to phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) and to allogeneic lymphocytes in the one way mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) is associated with lymphocytes which are thymus derived1–4 and usually correlates well with cell mediated immune competence in vivo5–8. That these responses may be the property of separate cell populations has been suggested by observations that (a) a fraction of rat thymocytes separated on an albumin density gradient reacted in an MLR but not to PHA, while other fractions were responsive in both tests9; (b) human lymphocytes treated with trypsin and Vibrio cholera extract react in an MLR but have a depressed response to PHA10; and (c) rare reports of PHA-responsive MLR-nonresponsive lymphocytes in immune deficient states11. We wished to determine whether MLR and PHA responses are possessed by the same or different populations of lymphoid cells during human foetal development. Results indicate that the MLR is acquired earlier in development and is independent of the PHA response and that foetal liver is the site of MLR-responsive PHA-nonresponsive cells.
Identification of Confirmatory Factor Analysis Models of Arbitrary Complexity: The Side-by-Side Rule

All statistical models must be identified if the estimates are to be meaningful. Determining the identification status of the measurement portion of a structural equation model can be difficult because the resulting system of covariance equations is nonlinear. The recent literature on identification rules for the measurement portion of a structural equation model has concentrated on models of factor complexity 1, that is, models in which each observed variable loads on one and only one factor. Building on the existing literature, the authors consider models of arbitrary complexity. A method is presented, called model decomposition, which permits factor complexity 1 identification rules to be applied to models of arbitrary factor complexity. In addition, a rule is presented, called the side-by-side rule, which determines the identification status of almost all models of higher complexity that appear in the literature (an exception being the multitrait-multimethod model). Examples from the literature are given.
Joggers May Live Longer...

The universal admiration for athletic excellence, exemplified in the Olympics, caps an attitude about the value of physical exercise that is almost as pervasive. Unfortunately the evidence that physical exercise does more than make us feel better has been hard to come by. And for some, such as the anonymous author of the quote "Joggers don't live longer, it just seems like it," the benefits of physical exercise are not only unproved but unobtainable by most ordinary people. The article by Blair et al 1 in this issue ofThe Journalprovides some very suggestive evidence that physical fitness provides protection against the development of hypertension during the next one to 12 years. Those with low levels of physical fitness at the initial examination had a 1.52 greater relative risk for the development of hypertension than did those with higher levels of physical fitness, after appropriate adjustment for age, sex,
Class III Correction Using Biocreative Therapy (C-Therapy)

This article reviews several clinical applications of the C-type temporary skeletal anchorage devices, such as a C-Implant, C-Tube Mini-Plate, or C-palatal Mini-Plate that are used for camouflaging mild-to-moderate Class III skeletal malocclusions. The treatment strategy was established following the principles of biocreative C-therapy.
Cell cycle-specific effects of lovastatin.

Abstract Lovastatin (LOV), the drug recently introduced to treat hypercholesteremia, inhibits the synthesis of mevalonic acid. The effects of LOV on the cell cycle progression of the human bladder carcinoma T24 cell line expressing activated p21ras were investigated. At a concentration of 2-10 microM, LOV arrested cells in G1 and also prolonged--or arrested a minor fraction of cells in--the G2 phase of the cell cycle; at a concentration of 50 microM, LOV was cytotoxic. The cytostatic effects were reversed by addition of exogenous mevalonate. Cells arrested in the cycle by LOV were viable for up to 72 hr and did not show any changes in RNA or protein content or chromatin condensation, which would be typical of either unbalanced growth or deep quiescence. The expression of the proliferation-associated nuclear proteins Ki-67 and p105 in these cells was reduced by up to 72% and 74%, respectively, compared with exponentially growing control cells. After removal of LOV, the cells resumed progression through the cycle; they entered S phase asynchronously after a lag of approximately 6 hr. Because mevalonate is essential for the posttranslational modification (isoprenylation) of p21ras, which in turn allows this protein to become attached to the cell membrane, the data suggest that the LOV-induced G1 arrest may be a consequence of the loss of the signal transduction capacity of p21ras. Indeed, while exposure of cells to LOV had no effect on the cellular content of p21ras (detected immunocytochemically), it altered the intracellular location of this protein, causing its dissociation from the cell membrane and translocation toward the cytoplasm and nucleus. However, it is also possible that inhibition of isoprenylation of proteins other than p21ras (e.g., nuclear lamins) by LOV may be responsible for the observed suppression of growth of T24 cells.
Market responsiveness, top management risk taking, and the role of strategic learning as determinants of market pioneering

Abstract This study investigates managerial and organizational factors associated with engaging in a market pioneering strategy. Specifically, top management risk taking and the firm-level capability of market responsiveness are hypothesized to be associated with market pioneering. Additionally, strategic learning self efficacy is hypothesized to moderate the effects of top management risk taking and market responsiveness on market pioneering. Moderated regression analysis based on data collected from 111 manufacturing firms supports the hypotheses. Top management risk taking and market responsiveness positively predict the use of a pioneering strategy. Strategic learning self efficacy makes market pioneering more palatable to risk-averse top managers who might not otherwise engage in pioneering. Finally, strategic learning self efficacy strengthens the relationship between market responsiveness and market pioneering. Implications for future theory, practice, and research are discussed.
Modeling of ignition and CO oxidation in the boundary layer of a single char particle

A model is developed for CO oxidation in the boundary layer of a single char particle. The model includes char oxidation and a 56 reaction gas phase kinetic scheme which is coupled with the diffusive properties of the 12 species involved in the CO oxidation. The model is compared with the experimental data of Tognotti and co-workers. The temperature reached on ignition, the resulting CO 2 /CO ratio, and the effect of changing water vapor concentrations are well described. Studies on the effect of water concentration show that significant CO oxidation at low temperatures requires a high surrounding water concentration. The presence of water vapor or hydrogen is found to be necessary to obtain a high degree of CO oxidation at low temperatures; however, there is a minimum temperature below which significant CO oxidation in the boundary layer does not occur irrespective of how high the water concentration is. In addition, CO oxidation is negligible even at a surface temperature as high as 2500 K when water and hydrogen are absent. The model has also been applied to predict the effects of changing parameters. Catalytic acceleration of the rate of carbon oxidation, for example by the addition of calcium, leads to both a high particle temperature overshoot and a significant increase in CO oxidation over the particle surface.
Watching the neuromuscular junction

To understand how synapses form, it is important to be able to watch them as they form. Transgenic mice in which motor axons are indelibly labeled with the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) or one of its spectral variants (XFPs) provide a new way to image motor nerve terminals; when combined with contrasting stains for the postsynaptic membrane, both pre- and postsynaptic elements can be viewed in live animals. The development, maturation, stability, remodeling and regeneration of neuromuscular junctions and motor units can then be assessed over intervals ranging from seconds to months.
Parallel iterative solution for h and p approximations of the shallow water equations

A p finite element scheme and parallel iterative solver are introduced for a modified form of the shallow water equations. The governing equations are the three-dimensional shallow water equations. After a harmonic decomposition in time and rearrangement, the resulting equations are a complex Helmholz problem for surface elevation, and a complex momentum equation for the horizontal velocity. Both equations are nonlinear and the resulting system is solved using the Picard iteration combined with a preconditioned biconjugate gradient (PBCG) method for the linearized subproblems. A subdomain-based parallel preconditioner is developed which uses incomplete LU factorization with thresholding (ILUT) methods within subdomains, overlapping ILUT factorizations for subdomain boundaries and under-relaxed iteration for the resulting block system. The method builds on techniques successfully applied to linear elements by introducing ordering and condensation techniques to handle uniform p refinement. The combined methods show good performance for a range of p (element order), h (element size), and N (number of processors). Performance and scalability results are presented for a field scale problem where up to 512 processors are used.
Neural basis of affect and emotion

Research on affect and emotion has recently been informed by novel methods and theories in cognitive neuroscience. This perspective, known as affective neuroscience, has the potential to dramatically improve our understanding of fundamental processes of emotion. In this article, we review the major neural systems involved in emotion and consider the computational properties of these regions. Specifically, we consider affect systems associated with the representation of predicted and experienced affective states, the cortical re-representation of body states, and the role of reflection in generating and maintaining emotional episodes. WIREs Cogni Sci 2011 2 656-665 DOI: 10.1002/wcs.145 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Chronic ethanol exposure increases peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptors in brain.

The effect of chronic ethanol exposure, withdrawal from chronic exposure and short-term ethanol exposure on mouse brain peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptors (PBR) and on PBR from selected peripheral tissues was studied. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed an ethanol-containing liquid diet for 7.75 or 9 days under conditions which produced physical dependence. Control mice received the diet with isocaloric carbohydrates substituted for ethanol. The binding of [3H]Ro5-4864 to PBR was increased in brain membranes, but not heart or kidney membranes, of mice exposed to ethanol for 7.75 days. Scatchard plot analysis indicated that the increase was due to an increase in the apparent number of binding sites and not to a change in receptor affinity. The same results were obtained in ethanol-dependent mice that were withdrawn from the ethanol for 12 h prior to binding determinations. The binding of [3H]PK-11195 to brain PBR was likewise increased in mice made physically dependent on ethanol after 9 days exposure. In contrast to the effects of chronic exposure using the liquid diet, repeated short-term exposure to ethanol following a procedure known to cause functional tolerance (3.6 g/kg i.p. once daily for 4 days) did not significantly affect the binding of [3H]Ro5-4864 to brain when compared to saline-injected and naive control mice. The results are consistent with previous findings and suggest that ethanol exposure causes time-dependent changes in brain PBR that may be linked to the development of physical dependence. However, further studies are necessary to determine whether the increase in brain PBR sites of alcohol-dependent mice is causally related to the development of alcohol dependence.
The view from two worlds: The convergence of social network reports between mental health clients and their ties☆

Traditionally, concerns with the similarities and discrepancies between the reports of persons (or focal respondents) and their collaterals (or network ties/respondents) about the former's social support network is framed as a methodological concern. As individuals experience the devastating effects of illness, and especially as their cognitive capabilities or social perceptions may be impaired by mental health problems, these listings are seen as potentially problematic. While we share this concern, we expand the investigation of the comparison of network ties from focal and network respondents to consider the nature of differences. Using data from Wave I of the Indianapolis Network Mental Health Study, we target the "health matters" network of individuals making their first major contact with the city's largest public and voluntary facilities. Overall, we find that the networks on which "first timers" rely to discuss health matters are small, with both focal and network respondents mentioning four individuals on average. The overlap in ties mentioned is just over 2 people (or 56 percent), on average, and differ with regard to the number of friends and health care professionals mentioned. Ironically, listings are more accurate for focal respondents who have more serious mental illnesses or larger networks. The extent of overlap is lower for women focal respondents than men. In sum, while convergence is in a range considered acceptable in network studies, the substantive nature of discrepancies have interesting and important theoretical and clinical implications.
Fred Spilhaus Receives 2010 Waldo E. Smith Medal

[1] Fred Spilhaus was awarded the 2010 Waldo E. Smith Medal at the AGU Fall Meeting Honors Ceremony, held on 15 December 2010 in San Francisco, Calif. The medal is for “extraordinary service to geophysics.”
DiscFinder: a data-intensive scalable cluster finder for astrophysics

DiscFinder is a scalable approach for identifying large-scale astronomical structures, such as galaxy clusters, in massive observation and simulation astrophysics datasets. It is designed to operate on datasets with tens of billions of astronomical objects, even in the case when the dataset is much larger than the aggregate memory of compute cluster used for the processing.
Perfluoro-n-propylbromine(V) tetrafluoride

Abstract Perfluoro- n -propylbromine(V) tetrafluoride has been prepared by fluorination of perfluoro- n -propyl bromide at 0°C with elemental fluorine. It has been characterized by 19FNMR, mass spectroscopy and elemental analysis.
Structural Vibration Reduction Using Fuzzy Control of Magnetorheological Dampers

Control devices can be used in civil structures to dissipate energy from earthquakes, reduce structural damage and prevent failure. Semi-active control devices have been shown to be more energy-efficient than active devices and more effective in reducing seismic structural vibrations than passive devices. A type of semi-active control device, the magnetorheological (MR) damper, consists of a hydraulic cylinder containing micron-sized, magnetically polarizable particles suspended in a liquid such as water, glycol, mineral or synthetic oil. The damping capabilities of this device can be quickly varied by changing the viscosity of the MR fluid from viscous to semi-solid through the introduction of a magnetic field. The objective of this research is to develop a fuzzy controller to regulate the damping properties of the MR damper. Because fuzzy control uses expert knowledge instead of differential equations, it allows for the development of simple algorithms. It does not require accurate information on structural and vibration characteristics of the system and is therefore an attractive alternative for complex and/or nonlinear systems.
Evaluating uses of data mining techniques in propensity score estimation: a simulation study†

Background In propensity score modeling, it is a standard practice to optimize the prediction of exposure status based on the covariate information. In a simulation study, we examined in what situations analyses based on various types of exposure propensity score (EPS) models using data mining techniques such as recursive partitioning (RP) and neural networks (NN) produce unbiased and/or efficient results. Method We simulated data for a hypothetical cohort study (n = 2000) with a binary exposure/outcome and 10 binary/continuous covariates with seven scenarios differing by non-linear and/or non-additive associations between exposure and covariates. EPS models used logistic regression (LR) (all possible main effects), RP1 (without pruning), RP2 (with pruning), and NN. We calculated c-statistics (C), standard errors (SE), and bias of exposure-effect estimates from outcome models for the PS-matched dataset. Results Data mining techniques yielded higher C than LR (mean: NN, 0.86; RPI, 0.79; RP2, 0.72; and LR, 0.76). SE tended to be greater in models with higher C. Overall bias was small for each strategy, although NN estimates tended to be the least biased. C was not correlated with the magnitude of bias (correlation coefficient [COR] = −0.3, p = 0.1) but increased SE (COR = 0.7, p < 0.001). Conclusions Effect estimates from EPS models by simple LR were generally robust. NN models generally provided the least numerically biased estimates. C was not associated with the magnitude of bias but was with the increased SE. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polyamine-like effects of cobalt(III) hexaammine on various cyclic nucleotide-independent protein phosphokinase reactions

The chemically inert trivalent ion cobalt(III) hexaammine, Co3+(NH3)6, was found to exert polyamine-like effects in enhancing certain cyclic nucleotide-independent protein kinase reactions catalyzed by nuclear enzyme preparations from rat ventral prostate or liver. At 1 mM, Co3+(NH3)6 stimulated chromatin- and also non-histone-protein-associated kinase activities with partially dephosphorylated phosvitin as substrate by 38% and 72% respectively, whereas chromatin-associated kinase-catalyzed phosphorylation of lysine-rich histones was not affected under the same conditions. 32P incorporation (from γ-32P-ATP) into endogenous protein substrates of chromatin or non-histone protein fractions catalyzed by their erdogencus kinase activity was increased by 47% and 153%, respectively. These effects of Co3+(NH3)6 were similar to those produced by 1mM spermine. Autoradiographic analysis of endogenous 32P-labelled nonhistone proteins revealed similar enhancements of the phosphorylation of several of the same proteins, induced by 1mM spermine or 1 mM Co3+(NH3)6 or 2mM spermidine. The stimulatory actions of polyamines or Co3+(NH3)6 were not mimicked by raising the ionic strength by addition of comparable concentrations of NaCl. The effects of 1 mM spermine and of 1 mM Co3+(NH3)6 tested separately were not additive. Phosphorylation of lysine-rich histones by beef heart cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase was not affected by polyamines or Co3+(NH3)6 Various findings hint that the enhancement of cyclic nucleotide-independent kinase-catalyzed phosphorylation of certain protein substrates by spermidine, spermine and Co3+(NH3)6 is primarily due to interaction of these cations with appropriate protein substrates affecting their conformational status. Further, these effects of polyamines may be a reflection of their cationic charge properties rather than being dependent on any particular conformations assumed by the polyamines.
Effort Thrombosis: Effective treatment with vascular stent after unrelieved venous stenosis following a surgical release procedure

Acute symptomatic effort thrombosis in a 33-year-old male necessitated an aggressive approach consisting of thrombolysis, angioplasty, and surgical thoracic outlet release. The patient required postoperative placement of a Wallstent and was placed on anticoagulation. He has remained symptom free for the past 10 months, both clinically and sonographically.
Solitary and multiple plasma-cell tumors of the jaws and oral cavity

S olitary plasma-cell tumors are rare lesions which may occur in bone or soft tissue. Primary soft-tissue plasma-cell tumors ca,n occur in many tissues and organs, but they are more commonly found in the upper air passages and the oral cavity.4p 6, 9, lo, I6 Extramedullary plasmacytomas may have a variety of clinical appearances, but they are usually described as pedunculated or sessile, red or gray-red masses on the mucosa. The relationship between solitary plasma-cell tumors and multiple myeloma is rather confusing. Multiple myeloma is usually a fatal disease that runs its course in about 2 years.l, I3 It is a malignant neoplasm of bone marrow which is thought to arise from reticuloendothelial cells* and to be multifocal in origin, rather than a metastasis from a primary lesion.5, 6 Clinically, symptoms usually include severe pain and occasional pathologic fracture due to bone destruction. A high percentage of persons affected with this condition exhibit hyperglobulinemia with reversal of the albumin-globulin ratio, anemia, and Bence-Jones protein in the urine. Histologically, multiple myeloma may consist of sheets of densely packed cells which are uniform in size and closely resemble plasma cells. In some instances, the microscopic picture reveals cells which tend to be larger than the normal plasma cells, with multinucleated cell forms a,nd numerous mitoses. The solitary plasma-cell tumor is usually histologically indistinguishable from the multiple plasma-cell myeloma. 7 However, the solitary plasma-cell tumors have a much better prognosis, and most cases do not show the hematologic, chemical, and radiographic changes associated with mult.iple myeloma. Some documented cases however, have been followed for many years and have sub-
One- and two-photon ionization cross sections of the laser-excited 6s6p1 P1 state of barium

Stimulated by a recent measurement of coherent control in photoionization of atomic barium, we have calculated one- and two-photon ionization cross sections of the aligned 6s6p^1P_1 state of barium in the energy range between the 5d_{3/2} and 5d_{5/2} states of Ba^+. We have also measured these photionization spectra in the same energy region, driving the one- or two-photon processes with the second or first harmonic of a tunable dye laser, respectively. Our calculations employ the eigenchannel R-matrix method and multichannel quantum defect theory to calculate the rich array of autoionizing resonances in this energy range. The non-resonant two-photon process is described using lowest-order perturbation theory for the photon-atom interactions, with a discretized intermediate state one-electron continuum. The calculations provide an absolute normalization for the experiment, and they accurately reproduce the rich resonance structures in both the one and two-photon cross sections, and confirm other aspects of experimental observations. These results demonstrate the ability of these computationally inexpensive methods to reproduce the experimental observables in one- and two-photon ionization of heavy alkaline earths, and they lay the groundwork for future studies of the phase-controlled interference between one-photon and two-photon ionization processes.
Estimating Prevalence, False-Positive Rate, and False-Negative Rate with Use of Repeated Testing When True Responses Are Unknown

This work was supported by the University of Pittsburgh and by National Eye Institute grant R01EY009859 (to Dr. Michael B. Gorin of the University of California–Los Angeles).
Cell cycle dependence of thyroid hormone nuclear receptors in cultured GC cells: relationship to nuclear matrix.

The DNA synthesis (S) phase of cultured GC cells, a clonal rat pituitary tumor cell line, is characterized by increases in nuclear receptors for T3 and glucocorticoid (G) hormones. However, this increased receptor abundance appears functionally dissociated from the GH gene since GH messenger RNA (mRNA) synthesis is decreased in S-phase cells. We have now examined a putative structural correlate of this dissociation by measuring the abundance of T3 and G receptors and the GH gene in the nuclear matrix (NM)/scaffold fraction. NM of control and S-phase cultures both contained 30–50% of G receptors. Thirty to 50% of T3 receptors were also localized to NM of asynchronous cultures, but T3 receptor abundance (femtomoles per 100 μg of protein) was significantly decreased in NM of Sphase cultures: Exp 1 (control, 140 ± 6.2; S-phase, 56.5 ± 0.8; Exp 2 (control, 170 ± 12; S-phase, 105 ± 2.4). Nuclear scaffolds were digested with restriction enzymes to solubilize DNA loop structures and probed with GH complementary D...
Marketing Strategy and the Optimal Production Schedule

Incorporation of marketing strategy in production planning can reduce overall costs and significantly increase profits. In this paper a solution procedure similar to the traditional Holt, Modigliani, Muth, and Simon production smoothing model is used to find a combined marketing and production plan in which advertising promotion is utilised to avoid peak-load production costs by shifting seasonal demand for a product. The solution procedure is applicable to a wide variety of market characterizations, and the technique may also be readily adapted to analyse impacts of various aspects of market behavior on the optimal production schedule.
Analysis of intersubject variations in intracochlear and middle ear surface anatomy for cochlear implantation.

Hypothesis We hypothesize that surface landmarks surrounding the round window typically used to guide electrode placement during cochlear implantation (CI) exhibit substantial variability with respect to intracochlear anatomy.
Lessons for low-income regions following the reduction in hypertension-related maternal mortality in high-income countries.

Abstract Objectives To evaluate pre-eclampsia/eclampsia-associated maternal mortality in high-income countries to understand better the potential improvements in pre-eclampsia/eclampsia-related mortality in low-income countries. Methods We searched Medline, PubMed, and the Cochrane Database (1900–2010) using relevant search terms. Studies of the incidence of pre-eclampsia/eclampsia and case fatality rates in various geographic regions were included. The incidence of pre-eclampsia/eclampsia and the pre-eclampsia/eclampsia-associated case fatality rates are presented by location and year. Results Most declines in maternal mortality associated with pre-eclampsia/eclampsia in high-income countries occurred between 1940 and 1970 and were associated with a 90% reduction in the incidence of eclampsia and a 90% reduction in the case fatality rate in women with eclampsia. The most important interventions were widespread use of prenatal care with blood pressure and urine protein measurement, and increased access to hospital care for timely induction of labor or cesarean delivery for women with severe pre-eclampsia or seizures. Conclusions A substantial reduction in pre-eclampsia/eclampsia-related mortality could be made in low-income countries by widespread hypertension and proteinuria screening and early delivery of women with severe disease. Magnesium sulfate may reduce mortality, but should not be the cornerstone of maternal mortality reduction programs.
Evaluation of thermal degradation on carbon fiber/cyanate ester composites

A fundamental problem of advanced airplane composite systems is the lack of understanding of the aging process and how it affects the material properties associated with degradation. A cyanate ester resin/carbon fiber composite system was subjected to an accelerated aging environment to investigate the deterioration and degradation process. The change in viscoelastic properties of cured laminates in the range of the glass transition temperature was studied. Thermo-mechanical property changes were evaluated by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) through time-temperature equivalence. Master curves were constructed to compare the aging effect between specimens and a model was developed that described the degradation phenomena. During the aging process, a swelling phenomenon of cured laminates was detected as a result of matrix degradation. Collectively, a modeling methodology was developed that quantitatively provides an understanding of the aging process of fiber reinforced composites in isothermal environments.
Calcium uptake by isolated nerve endings: Evidence for a rapid component mediated by the breakdown of phosphatidylinositol

Abstract Several physiological stimuli, including neuronal depolarization, increase the production of phosphatidate (PA) from phosphatidylinositol (PI) and increase calcium fluxes across cell membranes. To determine if breakdown of PI is required for neuronal calcium uptake, we tested inhibitors of PI-specific phospholipase C on depolarization- dependent uptake of calcium by isolated brain synaptosomes. At a concentration of 0.1 mM these inhibitors reduced calcium uptake produced by depolarization for 1 to 3 sec, but did not affect uptake due to more prolonged depolarization. Exogenous PA also stimulated calcium accumulation by synaptosomes and this uptake was not reduced by the enzyme inhibitors. These results suggest that the rapid calcium influx produced by neuronal depolarization may be mediated by the breakdown of PI.
Harold N. Fisk: a luminescent man

Abstract The publication of the “Geological Investigation of the Alluvial Valley of the Lower Mississippi River” (Fisk, 1944) was the greatest achievement of Harold N. Fisk's remarkable career. Its creative rigor and vision marked a great leap forward in understanding the alluvial and sedimentological processes of the Mississippi Valley and the fundamental value of these insights to river engineering strategies and techniques. Fisk's monumental effort shares many common elements with great strides in other disciplines made during this era. The period from the 1920s to the 1940s was marked by breakthroughs in fields such as hydraulics, medicine, chemistry, and small-particle physics that featured grand vistas of discovery. Fisk's triumph, as in other cases, can be attributed to factors that supplemented and complemented his personal scientific brilliance. He displayed less tangible elements of personality, shrewdness, and leadership that enabled him to attract interest and support for his undertakings, build a highly devoted team of associates, maintain the confidence of sponsors, and “market” his discoveries through clever media relations. This remarkable and in some respects enigmatic man was able to make the most of his opportunities in much the same way as his stellar contemporaries. Doggedness, vision, insight, personal qualities, and the availability of Federal needs and generous funding were all synergetic, crucial elements in the preparation and acceptance of the “Fisk Report.”
Bladder Dysfunction Secondary to Spinal Cord Amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is a disease process in which extracellular fibrils deposit at 1 or more sites in the body. Etiology and pathogenesis are unclear but different clinical forms exist.’ We report a case of familial amyloidosis with significant urinary and bowel involvement. CASE REPORT A 35-year-old woman (para 0) was referred to the urology department during neurosurgical evaluation for back pain with a 4-year history of straining to urinate, post-void fullness, frequency and occasional stress urinary incontinence. She also had frequent urinary tract infections and constipation. Family history was significant for amyloidosis, including the mother, uncle and siblings, although disease extent was unclear. Neurological evaluation revealed signs of S2 to S4 dysfunction, including decreased sensation in the S2 to S3 dermatomes, and a history of bladder and bowel problems. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a large cyst in the sacrum. Urodynamics demonstrated an areflexic bladder with 232 cc capacity and voiding by straining only (see figure). Uroflowmetry showed peak and average flows of 11 and 6 cc per second, respectively, and 110 cc residual urine. Electromyography was normal. Maximal urethral pressure was 34 cm. water. The patient was taught to perform clean intermittent catheterization 4 times daily. Partial resection of the sacral mass was performed and amyloid deposition was diagnosed. Postoperatively there were cerebrospinal fluid leakage, migraines, cervical pain and changes in neurological evaluation of the cervical area. Magnetic resonance imaging of the neck was negative. The patient also complained of increased stress urinary incontinence postoperatively that necessitated 2 to 3 pads daily despite clean intermittent catheterization. Repeat urodynamics again revealed an areflexic bladder with no improvement and Valsalva leak point pressure less than 75 cm. water. Examination demonstrated no evidence of urethral hypermobility, and the diagnosis was intrinsic sphincter deficiency. Collagen injection was performed. Incontinence improved to 0 to 1 pad daily and Valsalva leak point pressure increased to 83 cm. water.
An Independent Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Differential Ability Scales

This study investigated the structure of the Differential Ability Scales (DAS; Elliott, 1990a) using confirmatory factor analysis with 130 normal school-aged children. Maximum likelihood estimation, using the six Core subtests, found an extremely good fit with the data and supported the DAS model proposed by Elliott (1990a). In addition, the six Core subtests were found to be strong measures of g, supporting their contribution to the General Conceptual Ability. Replication of Keith's (1990) final model, which included the six Core subtests and three Diagnostic subtests, was also conducted. This model was based on the same theoretical framework against which Keith (1990) tested his models. This theoretical framework was derived from a logical analysis of the nature of the subtests in light of prior research. The present study found a reasonably good fit for the data when the model included both the Core and Diagnostic subtests.
Fluorescence corralation spectroscopy.

Identifying submicroscopic corrals in the plasma membrane has been of interest since the classic Sheetz barnyard model of confinement of proteins by the erythrocyte membrane skeleton (1). In this issue, Wawrezinieck et al. (2) present a novel fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) method to identify corrals.
RABL6A, a novel RAB-like protein, controls centrosome amplification and chromosome instability in primary fibroblasts.

RABL6A (RAB-like 6 isoform A) is a novel protein that was originally identified based on its association with the Alternative Reading Frame (ARF) tumor suppressor. ARF acts through multiple p53-dependent and p53-independent pathways to prevent cancer. How RABL6A functions, to what extent it depends on ARF and p53 activity, and its importance in normal cell biology are entirely unknown. We examined the biological consequences of RABL6A silencing in primary mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs) that express or lack ARF, p53 or both proteins. We found that RABL6A depletion caused centrosome amplification, aneuploidy and multinucleation in MEFs regardless of ARF and p53 status. The centrosome amplification in RABL6A depleted p53−/− MEFs resulted from centrosome reduplication via Cdk2-mediated hyperphosphorylation of nucleophosmin (NPM) at threonine-199. Thus, RABL6A prevents centrosome amplification through an ARF/p53-independent mechanism that restricts NPM-T199 phosphorylation. These findings demonstrate an essential role for RABL6A in centrosome regulation and maintenance of chromosome stability in non-transformed cells, key processes that ensure genomic integrity and prevent tumorigenesis.
Error Analysis of Certain Floating-Point On-Line Algorithms

The properties of redundant number system in significand (mantissa) representation are studied and the range of redundant significand is derived. From the range of the redundant significand and the absolute error of on-line operations, the MRRE (maximum relative representation error) is defined and analyzed for floating-point on-line addition and multiplication.
5-hydroxytryptamine levels in peripheral organs of immunosympathectomized rats.

Abstract Littermate Sprague-Dawley rats were immunosympathectomized by the daily injection of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)-antiserum for 6 days after birth. The 5-hydroxytryptamine concentrations of peripheral tissues, spinal cord and brain stem (medulla, pons, mesencephalon and diencephalon) were measured spectrophotofluorometrically by the method of Bogdanski etal. ‡ In immunosympathectomized rats the 5-hydroxytryptamine levels of the submaxillary glands, hearts and cecum were significantly increased. Statistically nonsignificant elevations were also noted in the lungs, upper intestinal tract, liver and uterus. The submaxillary glands of immunosympathectomized rats were significantly smaller than those of control littermates. The administration of JB-516 (Catron, β-phenylisopropylhydrazine) or 5-hydroxytryptophan did not present evidence to explain the elevated 5-hydroxytryptamine levels in some of the peripheral tissues from immunosympathectomized rats. It is not known whether the rise of the 5-hydroxytryptamine levels in some peripheral tissues from immunosympathectomized rats was a direct result of the NGF-antiserum administration or whether it was due to the fact that these tissues are largely devoid of sympathetic innervation. The most marked and consistent elevation of 5-hydroxytryptamine occurred in those tissues (submaxillary glands and heart) which are nearly completely sympathectomized by the NGF-antiserum administration.
Erratum to: Live coral cover in the fossil record: an example from Holocene reefs of the Dominican Republic

D. Hubbard Department of Geology, Oberlin College, Oberlin, OH, USA Fig. 11 Percent live coral cover (y-axis) in the ancient reef, as defined as the sum of line transects of corals with taphogrades 1 and 2. a High live coral cover (around 80%) at 25-m intervals in the massive zone along the event bed is well above modern Caribbean reef levels and reflects a strict paleo-reef surface. b Nonevent transects suggest lower live coral (±60%) in the massive and other reef zones. This lower cover probably reflect time averaging along the horizontal transects that were not strict time horizons and local variation within the reef tract. Error bars in b are 95% confidence intervals
Radiation efficiency of a microstrip antenna with height discontinuity (MAHD)

Radiation efficiency of a microstrip antenna with a height discontinuity (MAHD) is evaluated based on a cavity model. The radiation efficiency of an MAHD is shown to be better than that of a comparable standard microstrip antenna. The field distributions are given to explain how such better efficiency is possible. The numerical results are relatively in good agreement with the simulation results of HFSS.
A High-Performance Image Matching and Recognition System for Multimedia Applications

This paper presents a high-performance image matching and recognition system for rapid and robust detection, matching and recognition of scene imagery and objects in varied backgrounds. Advanced image processing and pattern recognition technologies provide the system with object distinctiveness, robustness to occlusions, and invariance to scale and geometric distortions. Extensive experiments and several commercial applications have demonstrated the system's value and utility for multimedia applications.
ADJUVANT RADIATION THERAPY FOR ADENOCARCINOMA OF THE RECTUM

Pelvic radiation has several potential benefits as adjuvant therapy for rectal cancer. First, improved locoregional control can lower the incidence of disastrous complications associated with advanced recurrent disease. The presence of occult tumor within lymph nodes or soft tissue, even after apparently adequate surgical therapy, may result in unresectable recurrence of disease. This may cause pain due to extension of tumor into nerve plexi, bladder, pelvic floor, and proximal muscles of the lower extremities or cause obstruction of the distal urinary tract and gastrointestinal (GI) tract within the pelvis. Second, improved resectability of large, bulky tumors may be achieved after radiation has induced tumor shrinkage, released tumor fixation to surrounding structures, and provided potentially negative margins during a curative resection. Lastly, although controversial, the ultimate goal is improved long-term survival; although it is not clear that radiation alone achieves this, it may improve the quality of life even for an individual who ultimately succumbs to established extrapelvic disease. For these reasons, the surgeon and the radiation oncologist must become a team that individualizes treatment for each patient with rectal cancer.
Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) vs placebo in patients with moderately advanced IgA nephropathy: a double-blind randomized controlled trial

Background. IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common form of glomerulonephritis worldwide. Up to 40% progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) over 10–20 years. Currently, treatment is limited. We studied the use of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) vs placebo in a group of North American IgAN patients at high risk for progressive disease. Methods. Included were 32 patients aged 18–75 years from multiple centres who had their biopsies read at Columbia and who had at least 1 g of proteinuria per day plus at least two of the following risk factors: (i) male sex; (ii) hypertension >150/90 mmHg or requiring antihypertensive medications; (iii) creatinine clearance, measured by 24 h urine collection, 20 ml/min at time of enrolment; and (iv) presence of glomerulosclerosis or tubulointerstitial atrophy and fibrosis on renal biopsy. Patients were randomized to either 1 year of MMF, titrated up to a dose of 1000 mg bid, or placebo. Total follow-up was 2 years. All patients received angiotensin inhibition medication. The primary outcome was a 50% increase in baseline serum creatinine (SCr). Secondary outcomes were an increase of 0.5 mg/dl SCr, ESRD and a 50% reduction in proteinuria. Results. The mean baseline SCr was 2.4 mg/dl. No statistically significant differences were observed for any outcome. Five of 17 who received MMF vs two of 15 patients in the placebo group reached a 50% increase in SCr (P ¼ 0.4). In both groups, all patients who reached the primary outcome also reached ESRD. Ten who received MMF vs seven who received placebo had a 0.5 mg/dl increase in SCr (P ¼ 0.7) Only three MMF and two placebo patients had a 50% reduction in 24 h proteinuria. No serious adverse events occurred in either group. Conclusion. No benefit was seen in patients who received MMF in this high risk group, probably reflecting the relatively advanced stage of disease of our population. We conclude that MMF is probably not effective in patients with IgAN who already have moderate renal insufficiency.
Clinical Reasoning: A middle-aged man with episodes of gait imbalance and a newly found genetic mutation

A 47-year-old right-handed man, with no history of alcohol use, presented with episodic unsteadiness that began in his early 20s. During the episodes, which last several hours, he is unable to walk steadily and has poor control of his limbs. These attacks are often brought on by emotional stress and occurred 1 to 2 times per month into his 30s. There is no association with headache or head movement, no diplopia, tinnitus, or hearing loss. His earlier evaluation included a brain MRI and routine EEG, which were normal. Though his diagnosis was unknown, he was given a trial of acetazolamide at age 38, and became attack-free on the medication. ### Questions for consideration: 1. What is the differential diagnosis for paroxysmal episodes of neurologic dysfunction based on the time course and age at onset? 2. How can medication responsiveness and examination findings be helpful? GO TO SECTION 2 In this patient, the likely etiologies for paroxysmal neurologic events are seizures, migraine, vestibular syndromes, and paroxysmal movement disorders. Pure ataxia as seizure semiology has not been described: cerebellar cortex is not known to be epileptogenic. Vertiginous partial seizures may be localized to the posterior part of superior temporal neocortex, are rare, and typically seen in conjunction with other temporal lobe localizing symptoms (auditory, olfactory). Postictal state of complex partial or generalized seizures can result in gait unsteadiness associated with fatigue and confusion and gradual improvement. In migraine, paroxysmal neurologic symptoms may occur without headache. Classified as typical aura without headache, the aura must include visual or sensory symptoms, and last less than …
Profiles of mature job seekers: Connecting needs and desires to work characteristics

The number of mature job seekers actively pursuing employment is increasing, and it is critical to recognize the variety of needs and desires they want from employment. We hypothesized that mature job seekers would be grouped into meaningful clusters based on their desires for work and that these groups would differ regarding the work features they were looking for in a new job. Using survey data from a sample of 173 mature job seekers over age forty, we identified three clusters: Those who work primarily for monetary and family reasons (which we labeled satisficers), those who seek personal satisfaction and learning opportunities from employment (free agents), and those who seek employment for a broad variety of reasons (maximizers). These three groups differed in their preferences for work schedule, availability of benefits, and developmental opportunities. We conclude by discussing potential individual-level interventions and organizational recruitment and staffing strategies for different groups of mature job seekers. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.