cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A decoding algorithm with reduced complexity for non-binary LDPC codes over large fields

Non-binary low-density parity-check (NB-LDPC) codes outperform their binary counterparts in some cases, but their high decoding complexity is a significant hurdle to their applications. In this paper, we propose a decoding algorithm with reduced computational complexities and smaller memory requirements for NB-LDPC codes over large fields. First, a simplified algorithm is proposed to reduce the computational complexity of variable node processing. To reduce memory requirements, existing NB-LDPC decoders often truncate the message vectors to a limited number nm of values. However, the memory requirements of these decoders remain high when the field size is large, since nm needs to be large enough to alleviate error performance degradation. In this paper, an improved trellised based check node processing algorithm is proposed to significantly reduce the memory requirement. The number of elements in a variable-to-check message is reduced to nv (nv <; nm). The sorted log likelihood ratio (LLR) vector of a check-to-variable message is approximated using a piece-wise linear function. Thus, only few LLRs are stored and other LLRs are computed on-the-fly when needed. For each a priori message, most LLRs are approximated with a linear function. Our numerical results demonstrate that the proposed decoding algorithm outperforms existing algorithms. Two LLR generation units (LGUs) are proposed to compute LLR vectors for check-to-variable messages, and the two LGUs require only a fraction of the area needed to store nm LLRs.
Environmental enrichment protects against the effects of chronic stress on cognitive and morphological measures of hippocampal integrity.

Chronic stress has detrimental effects on hippocampal integrity, while environmental enrichment (EE) has beneficial effects when initiated early in development. In this study, we investigated whether EE initiated in adulthood would mitigate chronic stress effects on cognitive function and hippocampal neuronal architecture, when EE started one week before chronic stress began, or two weeks after chronic stress onset. Adult male Sprague Dawley rats were chronically restrained (6 h/d) or assigned as non-stressed controls and subdivided into EE or non-EE housing. After restraint ended, rats were tested on a radial arm water maze (RAWM) for 2-d to assess spatial learning and memory. The first study showed that when EE began prior to 3-weeks of chronic stress, EE attenuated chronic stress-induced impairments in acquisition, which corresponded with the prevention of chronic stress-induced reductions in CA3 apical dendritic length. A second study showed that when EE began 2-weeks after the onset of a 5-week stress regimen, EE blocked chronic stress-induced impairments in acquisition and retention at 1-h and 24-h delays. RAWM performance corresponded with CA3 apical dendritic complexity. Moreover, rats in EE housing (control or stress) exhibited similar corticosterone profiles across weeks, which differed from the muted corticosterone response to restraint by the chronically stressed pair-housed rats. These data support the interpretation that chronic stress and EE may act on similar mechanisms within the hippocampus, and that manipulation of these factors may yield new directions for optimizing brain integrity and resilience under chronic stress or stress related neuropsychological disorders in the adult.
Preparation and characterization of monodisperse polymer microspheroids

Abstract An original scheme for producing monodisperse polymer microspheroids of precise size and shape was developed. Graft-copolymer-stabilized poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microspheres with diameters of 0.5 to 1.4 μm were prepared by dispersion polymerization. The microspheres were embedded in a matrix of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) normally containing 1 to 10% PMMA particles. The matrix was subsequently crosslinked. The composite elastic material was deformed under uniaxial extension, at a temperature well above the glass transition temperature Tg of the particles, to produce prolate microspheroids with aspect ratios up to 8. The microspheroids were physically set by cooling below Tg and were then recovered after selective chemical degradation of the PDMS matrix. The particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and by a previously developed method of transmission electron microscopy with metallic double shadow casting (Keville et al., J. Microsc. 142, 327 (1986)). Deviations in the dimensions and aspect ratios were typically less than 5%. Uniaxial deformation of properly synthesized materials produced a smooth prolate shape when the particles were less stiff than the matrix, even when they were uncrosslinked. Stable dispersions of spheroids were prepared in alkanes and PDMS. These novel dispersions of model particles are well suited for elucidating the effects of shape and orientation on various properties of colloidal dispersions.
Endangered Species Recovery Criteria: Reconciling Conflicting Views

Recovery criteria (RC) serve the important purpose of determining when an endangered species can be delisted, or removed from protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Although delisting is the ultimate goal for recovering all threatened species, it has been a controversial process, because delisted species may lose some protection provided by the ESA, making them susceptible to the same causes of decline that resulted in their initial listing. RC are designated by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in the recovery plan of an endangered species, and the ESA mandates that RC should be based on “objective, measurable criteria.” How to designate RC has been a thorny problem since the ESA was enacted in 1972. In this issue of BioScience, we find conflicting views of how RC should be determined offered by Doak and colleagues and by Wolf and colleagues. The authors of both articles champion the application of quantitative RC in place of the heterogeneous approach currently used. But here the similarities end. Doak and colleagues argue that RC should be based on “demographic criteria,” emphasizing estimates of the risk of extinction from a population viability analysis (PVA) that projects population size for decades to 100 years (or more) into the future. Under this approach, recovery plans would be required to include RC tied to the probability of meeting specific extinction risk or demographic thresholds from models. In contrast, Wolf and colleagues espouse a less data-intensive and broader set of methods, based on the ecological principles of representation, resiliency, and redundancy (the “3Rs”). The 3Rs would be evaluated quantitatively or qualitatively using multiple approaches for setting recovery targets, such as the percentage of historic range, population size, the number and spatial distribution of populations, and the risk of extinction from a PVA when adequate data are available. Both articles provide important insights into the shortcomings of past efforts to delineate RC and discussion of the concepts for delineating RC. But both run head on into the same knotty problems of developing quantitative criteria for RC that relate to population viability and the absence of risk standards.
Immunization roulette: influenza occurrence in five nursing homes.

Abstract Immunization with A/Bangkok 1 79 (H3N2) vaccine appeared to be protective for immunized nursing home residents during an influenza outbreak in 1983. All thirteen deaths during the 4-month period of the study were among residents of two of five nursing homes where influenza immunization was low or nonexistent. Death certificates included a diagnosis of I-ILI for only six of the 13 decedents, showing that I-ILI may be greatly underreported as a cause of death, and skewing statistical evaluation of the impact of influenza in nursing home populations. The cost of protection is only a small fraction of the cost to society of caring for seriously ill nursing home residents with I-ILI who must be admitted to a hospital.
3-D Reconstruction Of Vessels With Stenoses And Aneurysms From Dual Bi-Plane Angiograms

Parametric model-based approaches to 3-D reconstruction of vessels overcome the inherent problem of underdeterminancy in reconstruction from limited views by incorporating a priori knowledge about the structure of vessels and about the measurement statistics. In this paper, we describe two extensions to the parametric approach. First, we consider the problem of reconstruction from a pair of bi-plane angiograms that are acquired at different projection angles. Since bi-plane angiography systems are widely available, this is a practical measurement geometry. The patient may move between acquisitions, so we have extended our model to allow for object translation between the first and second pair of projections. Second, we describe how to accurately estimate the dimensions of a aneurysm from the dual-biplane angiogram. We applied the new algorithm to four synthetic angiograms (projection angles 0°, 20°, 90°, and 110°) of a vessel with a small aneurysm and an eccentric stenosis. The angiograms were corrupted by additive noise and background structure. Except near the top and bottom of the aneurysm, the estimated cross sections of the aneurysm and stenosis agree very well with the true cross sections.
A novel IL-1 family cytokine, IL-33, potently activates human eosinophils.

Background Eosinophils are likely key cells involved in the pathogenesis of asthma and allergic diseases; however, the mechanisms that regulate eosinophil dynamics and functions in mucosal tissues are incompletely understood. IL-33, which is produced by mucosal cells, is a new member of the IL-1 cytokine family. Mice injected with IL-33 display profound mucosal eosinophilia with associated pathologic changes. Although mast cells and T H 2 cells express the IL-33 receptor, ST2, the roles of IL-33 and ST2 in eosinophil biology are unknown. Objectives We investigated the effects of IL-33 on human eosinophils in vitro . Methods Eosinophils and neutrophils were isolated from blood of normal individuals and mildly atopic patients. Real-time RT-PCR and flow cytometry were used to detect ST2. Granulocyte responses to IL-33 were monitored by superoxide anion production and by degranulation; IL-5, IL-1β, and TNF-α served as controls. Eosinophil survival and cytokine production were assessed by flow cytometry and ELISA, respectively. Results ST2 mRNA and protein were detected on eosinophils. IL-33 induced eosinophil superoxide anion production and degranulation as potently as IL-5. IL-33 also increased eosinophil survival and induced production of IL-8. Anti-ST2 inhibited eosinophil responses to IL-33. Neutrophils did not express ST2, nor did they respond to IL-33. Conclusion IL-33 and its receptor, ST2, may play important roles in eosinophil-mediated inflammation; they may provide new therapeutic targets for controlling mucosal eosinophilic inflammation.
Metabolism of sulfatides. I. The effect of galactocerebrosides on the synthesis of sulfatides

Abstract Sulfatides, the 3′-sulfate esters of galactocerebrosides, are components of the mammalian myelin sheath. The synthesis of these lipids can be followed by measuring the incorporation of S35-sulfate into the lipid fraction of brain ( Davison and Gregson, 1962 ). In the rat cerebrum, the period of active synthesis of sulfatides in vivo ( Davison and Gregson, 1962 ) and in vitro ( McKhann, et al, 1965 ) coincides with the onset of the histological appearance of myelin. Despite the close chemical similarity of galactocerebrosides and sulfatides, their metabolic relationships have not been established. The studies reported in this paper indicate that galactocerebrosides are sulfated by a soluble enzyme obtained from the microsomal fraction of rat brain.
The Determination of All Detectable Elements in the Aquatic Plants of Linsley Pond and Cedar Lake (North Branford, Connecticut) by X-ray Emission and Optical Emission Spectroscopy

A method, employing optical and x-ray emission, is described for the determination of all detectable elements in aquatic plants growing in the littoral zone of two lakes in Connecticut. The pondweed and the hornwort accumulate As. Comparative data are presented for the determination of this element by atomic absorption and x-ray emission. The chemical composition of some plants is shown as well as the distribution of the rare earths in various portions of the yellow water lily.
The He–CO2 isotope and relative abundance characteristics of geothermal fluids in El Salvador and Honduras: New constraints on volatile mass balance of the Central American Volcanic Arc

Abstract We report helium and carbon isotope and relative abundance data of fumaroles, hot springs, water springs, mud-pots and geothermal wells from El Salvador and Honduras to investigate both along and across-arc controls on the release of CO2 from the subducted slab. El Salvador localities show typical volcanic front volcanic gas signatures, with 3He/4He ratios of 5.2–7.6 RA, δ13C values of − 3.6‰ to − 1.3‰ and CO2/3He ratios of 8–25 × 109. In Honduras, we find similar values only for volatiles collected in the Sula Graben region located ∼ 200 km behind the volcanic front. All other areas in Honduras show significantly lower 3He/4He ratios (0.7–3.5 RA), lower δ13C values ( The provenance of CO2 released along the volcanic front is dominated by subducted marine carbonates (L = 76 ± 4%) and organic sediments (S = 14 ± 3%), with the mantle wedge (M) contributing 10 ± 3% to the total carbon flux. The L/S ratio of the El Salvador volatiles (average = 5.6) is comparable to volcanic front localities in Costa Rica and Nicaragua [A.M. Shaw, D.R. Hilton, T.P. Fischer, L.A. Walker, G.E. Alvarado, Contrasting He–C relationships in Nicaragua and Costa Rica: insights into C cycling through subduction zones. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 214 (2003) 499–513] but is approximately one-half the input value of sediments at the trench (L. Li, G.E. Bebout, Carbon and nitrogen geochemistry of sediments in the Central American convergent margin: Insights regarding subduction input fluxes, diagenesis, and paleoproductivity, J. Geophys. Res. 110 (2005), doi: 10.1029/2004JB003276). We use the L/S ratio of El Salvador geothermal fluids, together with estimates of the CO2 output flux from the arc, to constrain the amount and composition of subducted sediments involved in the supply of CO2 to the arc. For the El Salvador segment of the volcanic front, a ∼ 180 m continuous section of the incoming sedimentary pile — with the uppermost ∼ 42 m removed by under-plating, is required. Significantly, there is no need for oceanic basaltic basement to supply CO2 to El Salvador — or any other part of the volcanic front. This new approach, combining provenance characteristics of CO2 from the slab (L/S ratio) and CO2 flux estimates of the volcanic output, allows a more realistic estimate of the recycling efficiency of slab-derived sedimentary CO2 through the Central American Volcanic Arc to the atmosphere. Furthermore, the low L/S ratio (4.8) of Sula Graben samples from behind the front in Honduras is inconsistent with continued supply of slab-derived sedimentary CO2 following volatile loss at sub-arc depths, thereby pointing to ancient enrichment and/or lateral entrainment processes controlling CO2 in the mantle wedge below Honduras.
Cellular Domains That Contribute to Ca2+ Entry Events

Stimulation of cell surface receptors that increase phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) hydrolysis leads to intracellular Ca2+ release and activation of plasma membrane Ca2+ entry channels. Ca2+ entry via these channels regulates a wide array of physiological functions. The molecular composition of these channels and the mechanisms that activate or inactivate them have not yet been elucidated. Members of the TRPC subfamily of the TRP (transient receptor potential) family of proteins have been recently suggested as molecular components of these channels. In addition, Ca2+ signaling proteins and the signals they generate are compartmentalized and spatiotemporally regulated. Thus, the mechanisms involved in the assembly and trafficking of Ca2+ signaling proteins, including TRPC channels, will determine the regulation of Ca2+ entry and its effect on cellular function.
P4-17: Recent advances on electrical contact resistance: Theory and experiment

This paper discusses recent advances on the electrical contact resistance. The basic theory of the contact resistance is vastly extended to higher dimensions, including dissimilar materials in the main current channels and in the connecting bridge joining them. Recent experiments and simulations were also performed to validate our theory.
Age-related changes in left ventricular diastolic performance

Previous studies show that the radionuclide-derived indices of left ventricular (LV) diastolic performance are abnormal at rest in many patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), even in those with normal resting ejection fraction (EF) and no prior myocardial infarction. This study examined the age-related changes in LV peak filling rate and time to peak filling rate in 65 subjects between the ages of 20 and 75 years with a low likelihood of CAD. All subjects had normal resting EF (≥ 50%), and none had prior infarction. There was a significant age-related decline in resting peak filling rate (r = −0.47, p < 0.001) and exercise peak filling rate (r = −0.52, p < 0.001), but no age-related effect in the time to peak filling rate. Of the 29 subjects <50 years of age, 26 (90%) had resting peak filling rate ≥2.5 EDV/sec (3.1 ± 0.6, mean ± SD) compared to 17 of 36 subjects (47%) ≥50 years of age (2.6 ± 0.6) (p = 0.002). In a subgroup of 28 subjects with a history of hypertension, the age-related effect was more marked than in the remaining 37 subjects without such a history (r = −0.66 vs −0.33). Thus, the peak filling rate at rest and during exercise decreases with advancing age; the high frequency of observed abnormality in the peak filling rate at rest in patients with CAD may conceivably be related in part to age differences between patients with CAD and the control group.
CT appearance of the Syed-Neblett device for interstitial brachytherapy of gynecologic malignancies

Radiation therapy is an important adjuvant treatment for gynecological malignancies. However, the maximum amount of radiation treatment is limited by the side effects to the normal local tissue. We present a brief summary of the use and appearance of the Syed-Neblett intracavitary device. This device allows delivery of radioactive implants to a local tumor resulting in maximum dosage to tumor tissue, but limiting dosage to the surrounding normal tissue.
Fabrication of an ellipsoidal mirror for use in a threshold gas Čerenkov counter

Abstract A method of fabricating an ellipsoidal mirror from epoxy-fibreglass for use in a threshold gas Cerenkov counter is described.
The Role of Mitochondria in Reactive Oxygen Species Metabolism and Signaling

Oxidative stress is considered a major contributor to the etiology of both "normal" senescence and severe pathologies with serious public health implications. Several cellular sources, including mitochondria, are known to produce significant amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that may contribute to intracellular oxidative stress. Mitochondria possess at least 10 known sites that are capable of generating ROS, but they also feature a sophisticated multilayered ROS defense system that is much less studied. This review summarizes the current knowledge about major components involved in mitochondrial ROS metabolism and factors that regulate ROS generation and removal at the level of mitochondria. An integrative systemic approach is applied to analysis of mitochondrial ROS metabolism, which is "dissected" into ROS generation, ROS emission, and ROS scavenging. The in vitro ROS-producing capacity of several mitochondrial sites is compared in the metabolic context and the role of mitochondria in ROS-dependent intracellular signaling is discussed.
Radioimmunoassay of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) without extraction and dialysis using solid-phase antibody.

Abstract A modified radioimmunoasay has been developed for plasma CEA levels. This procedure uses immobilized, solid-state antibodies, does not require perchloric acid extraction of the plasma samples and purification of the extract by dialysis. The accuracy, sensitivity and precision are equal to those of the most widely used procedure and the laboratory effort is greatly reduced.
In-vivo assessment of perfusion: methods and pitfalls

Imaging methods that have relatively high scan repetition rates can be used to generate indicator dilution curves in spatially defined regions of interest. This image-based analysis of indicator dilution processes has several potential advantages over catheter sampled indicator curve analysis. These include the fact that sampling can be performed in many locations within the vascular system where sampling catheters cannot be placed. Moreover, the multitudes of simultaneous sampling sites that can be accessed with CT would be prohibitively invasive if performed by multiple sampling catheters. Image—based indicator dilution curve analysis does have several limitations and/or special considerations that must be acknowledged and dealt with. It is the purpose of this workshop to highlight some of these special issues and to explore solutions to them. These issues indicate that use of these techniques requires consideration of the application as well as the imaging method.
Diagnosis of hemoglobinopathies: electrophoresis vs. HPLC.

Abstract Background : Alkaline cellulose acetate and acidic citrate agar electrophoreses are the most widely utilized methods for hemoglobin analysis. However, due to their limited resolution, incorrect or unresolved diagnosis of common hemoglobinopathies are sometimes encountered. Methods : Isoelectric focusing provides excellent resolution but is labor intensive and lacks accurate quantitation. High-performance liquid chromatographic methods have been developed for either screening or confirmation of hemoglobinopathies with relatively high sensitivity or specificity. Through the years, we have developed, refined and optimized an HPLC procedure using a porous silica coated with polyaspartic acid to improve the elution time of hemoglobin analysis while maintaining the high sensitivity and resolution necessary for both screening and confirmatory purposes. Results : The method is capable of separating more than 45 commonly encountered hemoglobin variants within 12 min. These include Barts, H, A 1C , Raleigh, Hope, I, F, Camden, N-Baltimore, I-High Wycombe, I-Paris, J-Baltimore, N-Seattle, Grade, Fannin-Lubbock, Malmo, South Florida, A, Chicago, G-Georgia, Lepore-Baltimore, P-Galveston, G-Coushatta, Lepore-Boston, E, Zurich, Osu Christiansborg, A 2 , G-Philadelphia, Korle Bu, Russ, E-Saskatoon, Richmond, D-Punjab, Deer Lodge, Koln, Montgomery, S, Q-Thailand, G-San Jose, A 2 ′, Hasharon, Q-India, Tampa, Constant Spring, SG-hybrid, C-Harlem, O-Arab, British Columbia, and C. The method provides not only the identification of the aforementioned hemoglobin and variants but also an accurate quantitation of their concentrations, particularly Hb F and A 2 , which are useful for the diagnosis of HPFH and β-thalassemia, respectively. Conclusions : The simplicity of the sample preparation, superior resolution of the method, and accurate quantitation of hemoglobin concentration, combined with complete automation, make this an ideal methodology for the routine diagnosis of hemoglobin disorders in a clinical laboratory.
Structure, energetics, and molecular- to atomic-ordering transitions in hydrogen thin films.

One, two, and three layers of hydrogen display a rich variety of features, some intrinsic to ultrathin films, others essentially manifestations of crystalline H behavior. We present calculations, in the framework of local-density-functional theory, of the structure-energy behavior of 22 molecular and atomiclike H films in a variety of hexagonal, square, and rectangular symmetries. The equilibrium phases are molecular in character, subject to some modifications to account for the two-dimensional space group. Thus, the energetically flavored three-layer configuration (the low aspect ratio, c/a1, hexagonal system) does not break up-down symmetry (one short and one long interlayer spacing, analogous with a possible linear ${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$ geometry) because relaxation to this configuration is incompatible with the drastically different equilibrium intraplanar lattice spacings of the two possible component dilayers. Within the space groups and stackings considered, even the most energetically favored three-layer configuration (hexagonal with overhead stacking) is unbound with respect to the most-bound two-layer and one-layer configurations, an indication that layer-by-layer buildup of crystalline H will involve an intricate sequence of symmetries rather than simple epitaxy. The insulator-metal transition and two versions of the atomic-molecular ordering transition are investigated. For the monolayer transition from (molecular, square) to [monatomic, fcc (100)] ordering, the lattice constants change smoothly, whereas for the dilayer transition from molecularlike (c/a1) to atomiclike ordering (c/ag1) the lattice constants change discontinuously.
Nonpharmacological Interventions to use with Children in Pain

Children's pain is often poorly managed, and interventions other than medications are rarely used. Yet many nonpharmacological interventions are helpful in managing children's pain. These techniques are reviewed, and the physiological mechanisms underlying them are briefly addressed. A discussion of the three major classifications (sensory, cognitive, and cognitive-behavioral) of interventions follows. Factors that influence the use of nonpharmacological techniques, including type of pain and developmental level, are discussed.
Pulse polymerized polypyrrole electrodes for high energy density electrochemical supercapacitor

Abstract A novel method of pulsed polymerization for pyrrole exhibiting highest capacitance and very high energy density polypyrrole supercapacitor is reported. Stable polypyrrole films with good electrochemical reversibility and high doping degree were obtained by applying ultra short on time current pulse for polymerization. Pulse on time plays an important role in controlling chain size and chain defects whereas pulse off time contributes in polymer conjugation and orientation. A regime of pulse on time is identified to yield highly capacitive and stable films for supercapacitor application. Very high specific capacitance of 400 F/g and an unexpectedly high energy density of 250 Wh/kg were obtained form pulsed polymerized ordered polypyrrole structures in acidic electrolyte. Stability tests performed on pulsed polymerized pPy electrode yield long cycling life up to 10,000 cycles at charge/discharge current density of 5 mA/cm2.
Malt, Milton, and MSS.

Adams gives a lively description of the Library's fine lot of first editions and manuscripts of modern authors.Â They are from the collection of Robert Kriendler, the co-owner of the famous Club 21 in New York City, a haunt of modern American writers.Â Especially well represented is John O'Hara's sixty-six typescripts of stories and sketches printed by the New York. Other authors included in the collection are Somerset Maugham, Stephen Vincent Benet, Edna Ferber, Zona Gale, Alexander Woollcott and many others.
Anti-estrogens and plasma proteins. II. Contraceptive drugs and gestagens.

The effects of the oral contraceptives Ovral® and Norlestrin® and the gestagen dydrogesterone on plasma proteins in humans, as well as the effects of norgestrel, Δ1-chlormadinone and cyproterone acetates on plasma proteins in green monkeys are reported. Effects upon thyroxine- binding globulin (TBG), serum thyroxine, thyroxine-binding prealbumin (TBPA), cortisolbinding globulin (CBG), serum cortisol, plasminogen, fibrinogen, haptoglobin, total proteins and transferrin were studied. Ovral, which contains the anti-estrogen norgestrel, resulted in plasma protein changes somewhat different from the ones seen with Norlestrin. Unlike the latter, Ovral produced an elevation of haptoglobin and had less influence on TBG than Norlestrin. Neither of the contraceptive drugs changed transferrin concentration. In monkeys, norgestrel blocked partially or completely the estrogen effects on TBG, CBG and haptoglobin. Norgestrel alone did not produce significant changes in plasma proteins.
Chemistry and clinical uses of the protein components involved in blood clotting

Recent advances in the chemistry of the clotting process include: 1) The preparation of highly purified prothrombin and thrombin from beef blood by Seegers and his associates. 2) The preparation of highly purified thromboplastic lipoprotein from beef lung by Chargaff. 3) The preparation of purified fibrinogen by Ware and Seegers, and by Morrison, Edsall and Miller. 4) The recognition of a new factor — the Ac-globulin or factor V — which is an essential component in the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin and has been studied by several authors. 5) A deeper knowledge of the nature of the fibrin clot, and of the extraordinary variations in structure of which it is capable, has been achieved by Ferry and Morrison, who have utilized the mechanical and optical properties of these clots. Electron microscope studies have confirmed these findings and revealed new aspects of the fine structure of fibrin.
An Interview with Marcia McCaffrey about the Core Arts Standards: Implications for Arts Teacher Evaluation.

Marcia McCaffrey currently serves in a variety of roles important to arts education. She is the state arts consultant for the New Hampshire Department of Education and is also current president of ...
Serum carboxy terminal propeptide of type I procollagen to amino terminal propeptide of type III procollagen ratio is a better indicator than each single propeptide and 7S domain type IV collagen for progressive fibrogenesis in chronic viral liver diseases

Twenty chronic viral hepatitis patients, mainly with hepatitis B related with progression to liver cirrhosis were included for an assay of serum collagen markers: PICP (carboxy terminal propeptide of type I procollagen), PIIINP (amino terminal propeptide of type III procollagen), and 7S-IV (7S-domain type IV collagen). PICP is increased in 20% of chronic hepatitis patients with a mean of 190.3 ng/ml, which is not different from that of the follow-up concentration in liver cirrhosis, where 35% of cases were abnormal with a mean of 220.5 ng/ml. The serum level and percent of abnormality of PIIICP in chronic hepatitis and in liver cirrhosis are 23.5 ng/ml vs 14.8 ng/ml and 90% vs 100%, respectively (P>0.05). PICP/PIIINP is significantly higher during liver cirrhosis (15.11 vs 10.08,P<0.05). PICP during chronic hepatitis is not related to serum biochemical changes, while PICP during liver cirrhosis and PIIINP are correlated with hepatic enzymes. 7S-IV in chronic hepatitis and in liver cirrhosis is 14.0 ng/ml vs 10.9 ng/ml, respectively; both were positively correlated with hepatic enzymes. These results suggest that PICP/PIIINP is a better indicator of hepatic fibrogenesis than either PICP or PIIINP alone in viral hepatitis. A ratio of more than 12 is suggestive of liver cirrhosis.
Hypotheses derived from morphological data: when and how they are useful

SYNOPSIS. This paper discusses the validity of hypotheses based on morphological data,and distinguishes between hypotheses, which are testable, and speculation, which is not. Specific examples from the mammalian auditory system are examined: a recently evolved, highly derived character (enlarged middle ears in desert rodents); and an older, more general character (the inner and outer hair cells of the mammalian organ of Corti). It is concluded that morphologically-based hypotheses are powerful and important when accompanied by experimental data.
Volume predictability of historical eruptions at Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes

Abstract Cumulative volumes of eruptions at the Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes in Hawaii appear to fit a volume-predictable model (i.e., the volume of an eruption episode is approximately proportional to the time since the previous episode) for many larger episodes during long periods of time (decades). This observation suggests that the magmatic pressure of each volcano tends to drop to a common level at the end of these episodes during each such period.
Factors associated with caregiver burden in heart failure family caregivers

Fifty caregivers and 41 heart failure patients participated in a study examining the association of caregiver characteristics and the caregiving environment on caregiver burden. Using a cross-sectional design, caregivers were interviewed face-to-face using a caregiver characteristic/demographic tool designed for this study, the Centers for Epidemiological Studies Short Depression Scale, the Caregiver Reaction Assessment questionnaire, and the New York Heart Association Functional Classification Guide to obtain the caregiver's perception of patient disease severity. Patient medical records were assessed following caregiver interviews for patient demographics, comorbidities, and ejection fraction percentages. Significantly higher levels of burden were found among Caucasian caregivers, those caring for other relatives besides the patient, unemployed caregivers, and single- versus two-family caregivers (respite caregiving). Fifty-one percent of the variance in caregiver burden was accounted for by the variables caregiver advanced age, higher caregiver hours, more caregiver physical health problems, higher levels of caregiver depressive symptoms, and more patient comorbidities. This article concludes with implications for nursing practice and future research.
Towards salvaging the social sciences and humanities through indigenisation in South Africa.

This essay advances the thesis that given the history and role of the social sciences and humanities in the colonisation of Africa in general and South Africa as a specific case, the only way in which such disciplines can be salvaged from their crises so that they can thrive and add value is through their indigenisation. Following the independence of many African countries not much changed in the orientation of the academy in Africa as a result the social sciences and humanities still suffer from the coloniality of knowledge. In this respect, there is a need to recognise the historical, institutional and normative baggage of the disciplines so as to explore their appropriation, localisation and grounding in an emancipatory and transformative agenda. The West has made the particular the universal and that is the intellectual project which African intellectuals have been deconstructing. 1 That colonialism marked a turning point in the social, cultural, economic, and political fortunes of Africa (Magubane, 1986) is no longer in dispute given the mounting evidence to that effect. In this regard, the impact of colonialism on Africa has been critically dissected, interrogated and unpacked by a range of thinkers and theorists. Among these could be included Fanon in Black Skin, White Masks (Fanon, 1970) and The Wretched of the Earth (Fanon, 1968); Memmi (1963) in his Coloniser and Colonised and Rodney (1972) in How Europe Underdeveloped Africa. Other scholars such as Ngugi (1986) focused specifically on the problems of colonisation of the African minds, while others such as Ake (1982) revealed how social science itself constituted a form of imperialism and Mafeje (1976) looked at how the disciplines entrenched capitalist modes. Read together, these writings poignantly point to what Williams describes as the destruction of Black civilisation (Williams, 1971) in light of the comparison of the political and social systems of Europe and Africa from antiquity to the formation of modern states (Diop, 1988). Their combined deconstruction of colonialism has settled the colonial legacy as negative and destructive to Africa.
Analysis and testing of programs with exception handling constructs

Analysis techniques, such as control flow, data flow, and control dependence, are used for a variety of software engineering tasks, including structural and regression testing, dynamic execution profiling, static and dynamic slicing, and program understanding. To be applicable to programs in languages such as Java and C++, these analysis techniques must account for the effects of exception occurrences and exception handling constructs; failure to do so can cause the analysis techniques to compute incorrect results and, thus, limit the usefulness of the applications that use them. This paper discusses the effects of exception handling constructs on several analysis techniques. The paper presents techniques to construct representations for programs with explicit exception occurrences-exceptions that are raised explicitly through throw statements-and exception handling constructs. The paper presents algorithms that use these representations to perform the desired analyses. The paper also discusses several software engineering applications that use these analyses. Finally, the paper describes empirical results pertaining to the occurrence of exception handling constructs in Java programs and their effect on some analysis tasks.
Chest X-ray and electrocardiographic abnormality after permanent pacemaker insertion.

Abstract An 80-year-old man with past evidence of myocardial ischemia, peripheral vascular disease and atrial fibrillation was admitted for a clotted left lower extremity vascular graft. Four months earlier, he had a permanent pacemaker inserted for acquired complete heart block. The chest x-ray and 12-lead electrocardiogram obtained are shown in Figures 1 and 2. The patient had a persistent left superior vena cava (SVC). The chest x-ray showed pacemaker wires entering the right atrium through the persistent left SVC and not the common SVC as expected. The electrocardiogram showed a right bundle branch block, which is unusual as the ventricular lead of the pacemaker is in the right ventricular apex. This right bundle branch block pattern in the electrocardiogram occurred because of a preexisting right bundle branch block (Figure 3) and not as a result of the persistent left SVC.
Introduction to MeeGo

The paper discusses the MeeGo operating system. The Moblin operating system, or MeeGo, encompasses a Linux operating system reference stack for Intel x86 and ARM-based devices in a traditionally embedded market.
Breakdown properties of epoxy nanodielectric

Recent developments in polymeric dielectric nanocomposites have shown that these novel materials can improve design of high voltage (hv) components and systems. Some of the improvements can be listed as reduction in size (compact hv systems), better reliability, high energy density, voltage endurance, and multifunctionality. Nanodielectric systems demonstrated specific improvements that have been published in the literature by different groups working with electrical insulation materials. In this paper we focus on the influence of in-situ synthesized titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles on the dielectric breakdown characteristics of an epoxy-based nanocomposite system. The in-situ synthesis of the particles creates small nanoparticles on the order of 10 nm with narrow size distribution and uniform particle dispersion in the matrix. The breakdown strength of the nanocomposite was studied as a function of TiO 2 concentration at cryogenic temperatures. It was observed that between 2 and 6wt% yields high breakdown values for the nanodielectric.
A Potential Role for Dendritic Cell/Macrophage-Expressing DPP4 in Obesity-Induced Visceral Inflammation

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DDP4) inhibitors target the enzymatic degradation of incretin peptides and represent a major advance in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. DPP4 has a number of nonenzymatic functions that involve its interaction with adenosine deaminase (ADA) and other extracellular matrix proteins. Here, we assessed the nonenzymatic role of DPP4 in regulating dendritic cell (DC)/macrophage–mediated adipose inflammation in obesity. Both obese humans and rodents demonstrated increased levels of DPP4 expression in DC/macrophage cell populations from visceral adipose tissue (VAT). The DPP4 expression increased during monocyte differentiation to DC/macrophages and with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced activation of DC/macrophages. The DPP4 colocalized with membrane-bound ADA on human DCs and enhanced the ability of the latter to stimulate T-cell proliferation. The DPP4 interaction with ADA in human DC/macrophages was competitively inhibited by the addition of exogenous soluble DPP4. Knockdown of DPP4 in human DCs, but not pharmacologic inhibition of their enzymatic function, significantly attenuated the ability to activate T cells without influencing its capacity to secrete proinflammatory cytokines. The nonenzymatic function of DPP4 on DC may play a role in potentiation of inflammation in obesity by interacting with ADA. These findings suggest a novel role for the paracrine regulation of inflammation in adipose tissue by DPP4.
Matrix elements in configuration interaction calculations

A method is proposed for the calculation of matrix elements among various states of atoms. A set of tensor operators is the only entity in the formalism, and all formulas involve merely the vacuum expectation values of these tensor operators and the recoupling transformation coefficients. Some numerical examples are given for the Coulomb interaction matrix elements.
Equatorial current sheet in the magnetosphere

The delta B distribution deduced from the Ogo 3 and 5 satellites shows large field depressions in the equatorial region inside the plasmasphere. On the basis of the delta B distribution, it is shown that what is usually considered the quiet-time ring current is an equatorial sheet current that is an extension of the neutral sheet current in the magnetospheric tail. The primary source of the large field reductions inside the plasmasphere is a population of protons with energies of 0.1-1 Mev initially detected by Davis and Williamson (1963) and Davis (1965) on Explorer 12, 14, and 15. Low-energy protons extensively measured on Ogo 3 by Frank (1967, 1971) are primarily responsible for the current near and outside the plasmapause.
Geomagnetic activity for northward interplanetary magnetic fields: AM index response

The Am index is used to study the response of the magnetosphere to northward IMF. It is shown that most of the observed increase in activity can be explained by a correlation of the solar wind dynamic pressure with the IMF field strength such that the Am index varies only slightly with northward IMF strength when the solar wind dynamic pressure is held constant. There remains a smaller response of Am to solar wind velocity, which is usually attributed to a viscous interaction of the solar wind with the magnetosphere such as through the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability. The diurnal variation of Am during northward fields is also examined. A model invoking the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability on the flanks of the magnetopause have been used to predict the annual behavior of this diurnal variation. The predicted annual behavior is not found for northward IMF. The difference in diurnal variation from summer months to winter months, suggested to be caused solely by the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability, appears only for southward fields. Thus, while the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability may play some role in energy transfer into the magnetosphere and the resultant geomagnetic activity, this role is much less than that of dynamic pressure fluctuations and we find no evidence that it by itself plays any role in the annual variation of the diurnal variation of geomagnetic activity.
Effect of trait and state approach motivation on aggressive inclinations

Abstract Research has suggested that individual differences in behavioral approach sensitivity (BAS) are related to state and trait anger [Carver, C. S. (2004). Negative affects deriving from the behavioral approach system. Emotion, 4 , 3–22; Harmon-Jones, E. (2003a). Clarifying the emotive functions of asymmetrical frontal cortical activity. Psychophysiology, 40 , 838–848; Harmon-Jones, E. (2003b). Anger and the behavioural approach system. Personality and Individual Differences, 35 , 995–1005]. The present research sought to extend this past work by testing whether individual differences in BAS would relate to aggressive inclinations, particularly when approach motivation was situationally primed. Results supported predictions, and thus suggest, contrary to several perspectives (e.g., [Gray, J. A. (1990). Brain systems that mediate both emotion and cognition. Cognition & Emotion, 4 (3), 269–288; Watson, D. (2000). Mood and temperament . New York: Guilford Press]), that BAS is involved in more than just positive emotional experiences and behaviors.
On the Cost of Knowledge of Mobility in Dynamic Networks: An Information-Theoretic Approach

In this paper, we extend an information-theoretic approach for characterizing the minimum cost of tracking the motion state information, such as locations and velocities, of nodes in dynamic networks. A rate-distortion formulation is proposed to solve this minimum-cost motion-tracking problem, where the minimum cost is the minimum information rate required to identify the network state at a sequence of tracking time instants within a certain distortion bound. The formulation is applicable to various mobility models, distortion criteria, and stochastic sequences of tracking time instants and hence is general. Under Brownian motion and Gauss-Markov mobility models, we evaluate lower bounds on the information rate of tracking the motion state information of nodes, where the motion state of a node is 1) the node's locations only, or 2) both its locations and velocities. We apply the obtained results to analyze the geographic routing overhead in mobile ad hoc networks. We present the minimum overhead incurred by maintaining the geographic information of nodes in terms of node mobility, packet arrival process, and distortion bounds. This leads to precise characterizations of the observation that given certain state-distortion allowance, protocols aimed at tracking motion state information may not scale beyond a certain level of node mobility.
African American Undergraduate Students’ Wisdom and Ego-Identity Development: Effects of Age, Gender, Self-Esteem, and Resilience

The present study provides valuable insight into African American youths’ ego-identity and wisdom development. The study examines the relationship between wisdom dimensions (cognitive, affective, and reflective) and ego-identity statuses (achievement, moratorium, foreclosure, and diffusion), and age and gender differences among 198 African American college students (age 18-25 years). The study also examines how self-esteem and resilience are related to wisdom and ego-identity. The results show that (a) age contributes to reflective and affective dimensions of wisdom, (b) there is no association between identity achievement and wisdom, (c) moratorium, foreclosure, and diffusion are negatively associated with wisdom, (d) gender does not predict wisdom, but does affect foreclosure and diffusion, (e) reflective and affective wisdom are related to resilience and self-esteem, and (f) both resilience and self-esteem are related to identity achievement. This study provides insight into the importance of fostering...