cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THE COMPARISON OF HARMONICALLY RICH SOUNDS USING SPECTROGRAPHIC CROSS-CORRELATION AND PRINCIPAL COORDINATES ANALYSIS

ABSTRACT We explore the effectiveness of spectrographs cross-correlation (SPCC) combined with principal coordinates (PCO) analysis as a method for sound comparison. We do this using synthetic sounds modeled after the individually-distinctive, harmonically-rich contact calls of wild orange-fronted conures Aratinga canicularis. Calls with acoustic properties similar to Aratinga contact calls are common in other taxa including non-oscine birds, primates and cetaceans. We generated signals with known variations in time-frequency pattern, duration, noise level, harmonic content and harmonic weighting, and applied SPCC-PCO analysis to obtain an ordering of sounds in n-dimensional space. We find that shared time-frequency patterns dominate the positioning of sounds in PCO space. This was true despite high variability in signal-to-noise ratio (from −60 to +40 dB) and duration (150–275 ms). Furthermore, inclusion of naturally-weighted harmonics (versus fundamentals only) enhances, rather than obscures, the separat...
Glycation of mitochondrial proteins from diabetic rat kidney is associated with excess superoxide formation

Chronic hyperglycemia causes structural alterations of proteins through the Maillard reaction. In diabetes, methylglyoxal (MGO)-induced hydroimidazolones are the predominant modification. In contrast to acute hyperglycemia, mitochondrial respiration is depressed in chronic diabetes. To determine whether MGO-derived protein modifications result in abnormalities in mitochondrial bioenergetics and superoxide formation, proteomics and functional studies were performed in renal cortical mitochondria isolated from rats with 2, 6, and 12 mo of streptozotocin-induced diabetes. MGO-modified proteins belonged to the following two pathways: 1) oxidative phosphorylation and 2) fatty acid beta-oxidation. Two of these proteins were identified as components of respiratory complex III, the major site of superoxide production in health and disease. Mitochondria from rats with diabetes exhibited a diminution of oxidative phosphorylation. A decrease in the respiratory complex III activity was significantly correlated with the quantity of MGO-derived hydroimidazolone present on mitochondrial proteins in both diabetic and control animals. In diabetes, isolated renal mitochondria produced significantly increased quantities of superoxide and showed evidence of oxidative damage. Administration of aminoguanidine improved mitochondrial respiration and complex III activity and decreased oxidative damage to mitochondrial proteins. Therefore, posttranslational modifications of mitochondrial proteins by MGO may represent pathogenic events leading to mitochondria-induced oxidative stress in the kidney in chronic diabetes.
Interactive format is favoured in case conference.

BACKGROUND Follow-up case presentation (FCP), a staple of emergency medicine residency conference curricula nationwide, has traditionally been delivered using PowerPoint(TM) (PP). The sole use of the PP lecture format may limit audience participation. In light of existing literature supporting chalkboard and morning report formats, we changed FCP to an interactive chalkboard format with limited PP slides. We hypothesised that this change will enhance the perceived educational impact of FCP on learners. METHODS To examine learners' perceptions regarding the PP-based and 'chalkboard talk' discussion formats, we conducted a time-series investigation with pre- and post-intervention questionnaires using the five-point Likert scale. After obtaining Institutional Review Board exemption, 60 emergency medicine residents (post graduate years 1-4) were recruited through e-mail to complete the pre-intervention questionnaire. The post-intervention questionnaire was administered following a run-in period of nine post-intervention FCPs. The questionnaires were compared using Mantel-Haenszel chi-square tests. RESULTS The pre- and post-intervention questionnaire completion rates were 83.3 per cent (50/60) and 65 per cent (39/60), respectively. The chalkboard format was perceived by learners to be significantly more effective than PP-based FCPs at educating the learner regarding the topics covered (3.5 versus 4.0, pre- versus post-, respectively, p = 0.003), teaching practical knowledge (3.4 versus 3.8, p = 0.014), stimulating self-knowledge assessment (3.4 versus 3.8, p = 0.023), encouraging the generation of broad differential diagnoses (3.4 versus 3.9, p = 0.008), and promoting an interactive learning environment (3.1 versus 4.1, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS The implementation of chalkboard format with interactive discussion is perceived by learners to be the superior didactic educational medium, compared with the exclusive use of PP slides for FCPs. The chalkboard format was perceived by learners to be significantly more effective.
New Approaches to Agricultural Policy

THE AGRICULTURAL PROBLEM is a subject of great concern to both major political parties. However, this concern of late years has found expression in efforts to see who can promise the farmers the most without adequate attention to the economic consequences of making good on these promises. We need to take a new look at the farm problem, one that is free from hysteria and largely divorced from the goal of putting this or that party into power. I
Mortality caused by sepsis in patients with end-stage renal disease compared with the general population

Mortality caused by sepsis in patients with end-stage renal disease compared with the general population. Background In the United States, infection is second to cardiovascular disease as the leading cause of death in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and septicemia accounts for more than 75% of this category. This increased susceptibility to infections is partly due to uremia, old age, and comorbid conditions. Although it is intuitive to believe that mortality caused by sepsis may be higher in patients with ESRD compared with the general population (GP), no such data are currently available. Methods We compared annual mortality rates caused by sepsis in patients with ESRD (U.S. Health Care Financing Administration 2746 death notification form) with those in the GP (death certificate). Data were abstracted from the U.S. Renal Data System (1994 through 1996 Special Data request) and the National Center for Health Statistics. Data were stratified by age, gender, race, and diabetes mellitus (DM). Sensitivity analyses were performed to account for potential limitations of the data sources. Results Overall, the annual percentage mortality secondary to sepsis was approximately 100- to 300-fold higher in dialysis patients and 20-fold higher in renal transplant recipients (RTRs) compared with the GP. Mortality caused by sepsis was higher among diabetic patients across all populations. After stratification for age, differences between groups decreased but retained their magnitude. These findings remained robust despite a wide range of sensitivity analyses. Indeed, mortality secondary to sepsis remained approximately 50-fold higher in dialysis patients compared with the GP, using multiple cause-of-death analyses; was approximately 50-fold higher in diabetic patients with ESRD compared with diabetic patients in the GP, when accounting for underreporting of DM on death certificates in the GP; and was approximately 30-fold higher in RTRs compared with the GP, when accounting for the incomplete ascertainment of cause of death among RTRs. Furthermore, despite assignment of primary cause-of-death to major organ infections in the GP, annual mortality secondary to sepsis remained 30- to 45-fold higher in the dialysis population. Conclusions Patients with ESRD treated by dialysis have higher annual mortality rates caused by sepsis compared with the GP, even after stratification for age, race, and DM. Consequently, this patient population should be considered at high-risk for the development of lethal sepsis.
Incidental intracardiac thromboemboli during liver transplantation: Incidence, risk factors, and management

Even though numerous cases of massive thromboemboli have been reported in the literature, intracardiac thromboemboli (ICTs) incidentally found during orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) have not been examined. In this study, we retrospectively examined the incidence, risk factors, and management of incidental ICTs during OLT. After institutional review board approval, adult patients who underwent OLT between January 2004 and December 2008 at our center were reviewed. ICTs were identified and confirmed by the examination of OLT datasheets, anesthesia records, and recorded transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) clips. The clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of the patients with ICTs were reviewed. Risk factors were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression. During the study period, 426 of the 936 adult OLT patients (45.5%) underwent intraoperative TEE monitoring. Incidental ICTs were identified in 8 of these 426 patients (1.9%). Two ICTs occurred before reperfusion, and 6 ICTs occurred after reperfusion. The treatment was at the discretion of the treating physicians; however, none of the patients received an anticoagulant or thrombolytics. Multivariate analysis identified 2 independent risk factors for intraoperative incidental ICTs: the presence of symptomatic or surgically treated portal hypertension (a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt procedure, or portocaval shunt surgery) before OLT and intraoperative hemodialysis (odds ratios of 4.05 and 7.29, respectively; P < 0.05 for both). In conclusion, incidental ICTs during OLT occurred at a rate of 1.9% and were associated with several preoperative and intraoperative risk factors. The use of TEE allows early identification, which may be important. Our management for incidental ICTs is described; however, no conclusions can be made about the optimal therapy.
Surface-Confined Monomers on Electrode Surfaces. 4. Electrochemical and Spectroscopic Characterization of Undec-10-ene-1-thiol Self-Assembled Monolayers on Au

The synthesis, structure, and reactivity of undec-10-ene-1-thiol monolayers assembled on planar and nanocrystalline (curved) Au is presented. Cyclic voltammetry and infrared spectroscopy are used to probe the structural changes in the monolayers (on planar Au) upon irradiation with y-rays. Oligomerization of the monolayers during the γ-ray exposures is indicated by the observed decrease in the intensities of infrared bands associated with the olefin functionality. From infrared spectra obtained during γ-ray exposures of the undec-10-ene-1-thiol monolayers on planar Au, it is proposed that the oligomerization reaction is controlled by the distance the tethered olefin groups can move. That is to say the reaction is stress limited. Dropcast films of undec-lO-ene- 1-thiol/Au nanoclusters (1.3 and 3.4 nm diameter Au crystals) do not exhibit decreases in the olefin infrared bands after large γ-ray exposures. This decrease in reactivity for the olefin monolayers supported on the Au nanocrystals is suggested to be the result ofinterdigitation of the alkane chains from neighboring alkanethiolate Au clusters that exist in the dropcast films.
Matter radii and wave function admixtures in 2n halo nuclei

In a simple potential model, we have computed matter radii for several 2n halo nuclei. Results are used to estimate wave function admixtures for these nuclei. Comparison is made with experimental and other calculated values. We propose a tighter limit on the binding energy of 19B : $\ensuremath B_{2n}=0.55^{+0.20}_{-0.16}$ MeV, replacing the previous value of 0.5(4)MeV.
Distributed autonomous systems : resource management, planning, and control algorithms

Distributed autonomous systems, i.e., systems that have separated distributed components, each of which, exhibit some degree of autonomy are increasingly providing solutions to naval and other DoD problems. Recently developed control, planning and resource allocation algorithms for two types of distributed autonomous systems will be discussed. The first distributed autonomous system (DAS) to be discussed consists of a collection of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that are under fuzzy logic control. The UAVs fly and conduct meteorological sampling in a coordinated fashion determined by their fuzzy logic controllers to determine the atmospheric index of refraction. Once in flight no human intervention is required. A fuzzy planning algorithm determines the optimal trajectory, sampling rate and pattern for the UAVs and an interferometer platform while taking into account risk, reliability, priority for sampling in certain regions, fuel limitations, mission cost, and related uncertainties. The real-time fuzzy control algorithm running on each UAV will give the UAV limited autonomy allowing it to change course immediately without consulting with any commander, request other UAVs to help it, alter its sampling pattern and rate when observing interesting phenomena, or to terminate the mission and return to base. The algorithms developed will be compared to a resource manager (RM) developed for another DAS problem related to electronic attack (EA). This RM is based on fuzzy logic and optimized by evolutionary algorithms. It allows a group of dissimilar platforms to use EA resources distributed throughout the group. For both DAS types significant theoretical and simulation results will be presented.
PRODUCTION OF STEROID GLYCOALKALOIDS BY PHYTOPHTHORA INFESTANS IN COMPLEX AND CHEMICALLY DEFINED MEDIA

A chemically defined synthetic medium was developed on which Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary strain 1.2.4 grew extensively. The medium consisted of: 90.0 g maltose; 20.0 g L-proline; 20.0 g DL-alanine; 1.0 g KNO3; 0.50 g KH2PO4; 0.25 g MgSO4 7H2O; and 1.0 mg thiamin per liter of distilled water. The average level of growth on this medium was 0.5864 g dry weight mycelium per 50 ml medium. The glycoalkaloids, solanidine and solanine, were produced by P. infestans in this medium at an average concentration of 0.8518 mg total glycoalkaloids per 25 ml medium with a range of 0.0 to 5.9 mg per 25 ml. No glycoalkaloid production was detected when the level of growth of the fungus was below 0.35 g dry weight mycelium/50 ml medium. Glycoalkaloids were synthesized by 5 of 10 cultures grown on chick pea medium and by none of 10 cultures grown on rye seed medium.
Peroral irradiation for limited carcinoma of the oral cavity

Abstract Eighteen patients with limited squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity were irradiated through a peroral cone between 1965 and 1975. All had primary lesions less than 3 cm in greatest dimension, and none had evidence of regional or distant metastasis. The local control rate with a follow-up time of 1–10 years was 100%. Peroral irradiation is recommended for patients who meet the following criteria: primary located in a site accessible to a cone; primary equal to or lesser than 3 cm in greatest dimension; no deep invasion of underlying tissues; no regional or distant metastasis; cooperative patient capable of remaining still during treatment.
Rational Design of a Colorimetric pH Sensor from a Soluble Retinoic Acid Chaperone

Reengineering of cellular retinoic acid binding protein II (CRABPII) to be capable of binding retinal as a protonated Schiff base is described. Through rational alterations of the binding pocket, electrostatic perturbations of the embedded retinylidene chromophore that favor delocalization of the iminium charge lead to exquisite control in the regulation of chromophoric absorption properties, spanning the visible spectrum (474–640 nm). The pKa of the retinylidene protonated Schiff base was modulated from 2.4 to 8.1, giving rise to a set of proteins of varying colors and pH sensitivities. These proteins were used to demonstrate a concentration-independent, ratiometric pH sensor.
Validity of a generalized Nyquist relation

Abstract We assess the validity of a generalized Nyquist relation connecting the imaginary part of the dynamic susceptibility with the fluctuation in the dipole moment. This equation is shown to apply only when the static limit of the dynamic susceptibility is eqaul to the corresponding isothermal susceptibility.
Association of tyrosine hydroxylase with synaptic vesicles in bovine caudate nucleus.

Abstract— The subcellular distribution of tyrosine hydroxylase in the bovine caudate nucleus was investigated, with five other enzymes serving as biochemical markers, and coordinated with electron microscopic observations. Tyrosine hydroxylase is particulate bound and has relatively high specific activities in the synaptosome-enriched subfractions and in the synaptic vesicle fraction. The association of tyrosine hydroxylase with the synaptic vesicles is consistent with the theory of feedback regulation of catecholamine synthesis.
The Structure and Dynamics of Horizontal Roll Vortices in the Planetary Boundary Layer

Abstract The wind and temperature fields of the Planetary boundary layer (PBL) are investigated during periods in which horizontal roll vortices are present. Measurements from a 444 m tower and from inertially-stabilized aircraft indicate the rolls are maintained primarily by 1) production of energy from the cross-roll component of the mean PBL wind spiral (inflectional instability and 2) buoyancy. Complicating a simple picture of two-dimensional rolls are other kilometer-scale eddies whose energy exchanges with the tolls may be important. The importance of inflectional instability is indicated by the similarity of roll structure to that predicted by models based on the formation of the rolls as a result of instability in the cross-wind (V component of the Ekman spiral. Rolls observed are generally oriented from 10° to 20° to the left of the wind at inversion base, with maximum roll vertical velocity at 0.33zi(where zi is inversion height) and maximum lateral velocity at 0.07zi Atmospheric roll magnitude ...
Diagnostic Pathology of Microsporidiosis

Microsporidia are ubiquitous spore-forming parasites that are important worldwide pathogens in the HIV/AIDS pandemic. They are also increasingly being seen in HIV(-) individuals. Infection has been documented in almost every tissue and organ in the body and in a broad spectrum of cell types, including epithelial, mesenchymal, and neural. Microsporidia elicit a wide range of pathology, e.g., inflammation and cell death, and symptoms, e.g., shortness of breath, sinusitis, and diarrhea with wasting. Untreated, microsporidiosis has been documented as a cause of death.
Surfactant era (1990–2002) 2-year outcomes of infants less than 1500 g from a Community Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

To report Bayley scores of 572 twenty-four-month corrected age infants whose birth weights (BWs) were less than 1500 g cared for in a Community Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) between 1990 and 2002 when surfactant was routinely used. Survival, ‘normal’ defined as both Mental Developmental Index (MDI) and Psychomotor Developmental Index (PDI)>84, MDI>69 and MDI>84 were analyzed by gestational age (GA) and BW. Comparisons were made between infants born pre- and post-1996 when high-frequency oscillatory ventilation came into frequent use, Medicaid and non-Medicaid infants, multiples and singletons, outborn and inborn infants, boys and girls and infants with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) and those appropriate for gestational age (AGA). There was a correlation between GA and BW and improving outcomes. Scores do not approach those of normal standardization sample populations (60% for ‘normal’, 68% for MDI>84 and 95% for MDI>69) until 1400 g and 30 weeks. Medicaid, outborn and IUGR infants, and boys did worse in some aspects. There was a correlation between both GA and BW and improving outcomes. Availability of these developmental data on a laminated pocket card can facilitate presentation of outcome experience to families by pediatric and obstetric caregivers.
Review article: transcriptional events controlling the terminal differentiation of intestinal endocrine cells.

Summary Secretin-producing enteroendocrine cells arise from a multipotential endocrine progenitor in the crypts of the small intestine. As these cells migrate up the crypt-villus axis, they produce secretin and stop dividing as they terminally differentiate and die. Transcription of the secretin gene is controlled by a complex enhancer binding to multiple transcription factors. The basic helix-loop-helix protein, BETA2, binds to an E box sequence and associates with the p300 coactivator to activate transcription of the secretin gene. Basic helix-loop-helix proteins appear to play a pivotal role in the control of cellular differentiation. BETA2 induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in addition to activating secretin gene expression. Thus BETA2 may function as a master regulatory gene to coordinate terminal differentiation of secretin cells.
The Use of Time Dependent Models in Inverse Electrocardiography

This study investigates the feasibility of utilizing multiple dipole cardiac generators with time dependent dipole moments to obtain physiologically feasible inverse electrocardiographic solutions.
Hydrocarbon fuels from vegetable oils via hydrolysis and thermo-catalytic decarboxylation

Abstract Conversion of canola oil to normal alkane hydrocarbons was investigated using sequential reactions: continuous thermal hydrolysis and fed-batch thermo-catalytic decarboxylation. The free fatty acid (FFA) intermediate product from hydrolysis was quantified using GC–FID, which showed 99.7% conversion and the following components: palmitic, oleic, linoleic, linolenic, stearic, arachidic and behenic acids. The FFA was saturated then decarboxylated at an average rate of 15.5 mmoles/min using a 5% Pd/C catalyst at 300 °C. Approximately 90% decarboxylation conversion to n-alkanes was achieved within 5 h of the reaction. The resulting mixture of n-alkanes can be readily converted into renewable diesel using isomerization to improve the cold flow properties of the fuel.
Temperature-dependent ultraviolet resonance Raman spectroscopy of the premelting state of dA.dT DNA.

Poly(dA).poly(dT) and DNA duplex with four or more adenine bases in a row exhibits a broad, solid-state structural premelting transition at about 35 degrees C. The low-temperature structure is correlated with the phenomena of "bent DNA." We have conducted temperature-dependent ultraviolet resonance Raman measurements of the structural transition using poly(dA).poly(dT) at physiological salt conditions, and are able to identify, between the high and low temperature limits, changes in the vibrational frequencies associated with the C4 carbonyl stretching mode in the thymine ring and the N6 scissors mode of the amine in the adenine ring of poly(dA).poly(dT). This work supports the model that the oligo-dA tracts' solid-state structural premelting transition is due to a set of cross-stand bifurcated hydrogen bonds between consecutive dA. dT pairs.
Hypoxia-inducible factor 1: Oxygen homeostasis and disease pathophysiology

Abstract Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) activates transcription of genes encoding proteins that mediate adaptive responses to reduced oxygen availability. The HIF-1β subunit is constitutively expressed, whereas the HIF-1α subunit is subject to ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation, a process that is inhibited under hypoxic conditions. Recent data indicate that HIF-1 plays major roles in the prevention of myocardial and cerebral ischemia and in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension and cancer. Modulation of HIF-1 activity by genetic or pharmacological means could provide a novel therapeutic approach to these common causes of mortality.
Simple diagnostic tests to detect toxic alcohol intoxications

Methanol, ethylene glycol, and diethylene glycol intoxications can produce visual disturbances, neurologic disturbances, acute renal failure, pulmonary dysfunction, cardiac dysfunction, metabolic acidosis, and death. Metabolic acidosis and an increased serum osmolality are important clues to their diagnosis. The former reflects the organic acids produced by metabolism of the parent alcohol, whereas the latter is caused by accumulation of the offending alcohol. However, neither the clinical nor the laboratory findings are specific for toxic alcohol ingestions. The definitive diagnosis of the alcohol intoxications is commonly based on detection of the alcohol or its metabolites in blood. Early diagnosis is important, because initiation of appropriate treatment can markedly decrease their rates of morbidity and mortality. Currently, detection of the parent alcohol in body fluids is inferred from its measurement in blood. This measurement is often performed by specialty laboratories using expensive equipment, and a long delay between obtaining the specimen and getting the results is not unusual. In this report, we describe liquid-based tests that detect methanol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, and ethanol in saliva. The tests are sensitive, and they have different specificity for each of the alcohols facilitating distinction among them. The relatively high sensitivity and specificity of the tests as a whole will facilitate the rapid diagnosis of each of these alcohol intoxications.
Decorrelation by resampling in frequency domain for multi-channel acoustic echo cancellation based on residual echo enhancement

An inter-channel decorrelation procedure via resampling in the frequency domain for multi-channel acoustic echo cancellation (MCAEC) based on residual echo enhancement is proposed. The objective is to efficiently alleviate the non-uniqueness problem while introducing minimal distortion to the audio quality and the signal statistics. The effectiveness is illustrated with respect to the standard approach of using a memoryless nonlinearity or additive noise. A combination of the new decorrelation procedure and the residual echo enhancement technique points towards a computationally feasible yet very robust frequency-domain MCAEC system.
A double-sampling approach to deriving training and validation data for remotely-sensed vegetation products

The need for large sample sizes to train, calibrate, and validate remote-sensing products has driven an emphasis towards rapid, and in many cases qualitative, field methods. Double-sampling is an option for calibrating less precise field measurements with data from a more precise method collected at a subset of sampling locations. While applicable to the creation of training and validation datasets for remote-sensing products, double-sampling has rarely been used in this context. Our objective was to compare vegetation indicators developed from a rapid qualitative (i.e. ocular estimation) field protocol with the quantitative field protocol used by the Bureau of Land Management’s Assessment, Inventory and Monitoring (AIM) programme to determine whether double-sampling could be used to adjust the qualitative estimates to improve the relationship between rapidly collected field data and high-resolution satellite imagery. We used beta regression to establish the relationship between the quantitative and quali...
Switching of clearing fields on spark chambers

Abstract A system for applying clearing-field voltage to the plates of a spark chamber without use of an extra wire or connection is described.
World Ocean Assessment: Opportunities for geoscientists

Global environmental assessments have many purposes: to measure changes, advance knowledge, and predict the future to enhance the scientific basis for policy making; to share data and improve management of resources for promotion of economic and social advancement; to strengthen peace, security, and cooperation in international relations; and to verify targets set by the international community on environmental variables and living resources.
THEORETICAL STUDIES OF THE FACTORS CONTROLLING INSERTION BARRIERS FOR OLEFIN POLYMERIZATION BY THE TITANIUM-CHELATING BRIDGED CATALYSTS. A SEARCH FOR MORE ACTIVE NEW CATALYSTS

In search of more active new catalysts, density functional theory was used to predict insertion barriers for ethylene polymerization for a variety of unknown Ti-chelating bridged alkoxide catalysts, [YR‘XR‘Y]TiCH3+, where X, Y = O, S, Se, Te, and R‘ = C6H4, C2H2, C2H4 with and without substituents. The use of ligands having donating and bridging atoms that are capable of donating electron density to the cationic metal center decreases the insertion barriers. For [(C6H4O)X(C6H4O)]TiCH3+, both the olefin coordination energy, X = S(21.4 kcal/mol) > Se(19.2) >Te(16.6), and migratory insertion barrier, X = S(6.4) > Se(5.9) > Te(5.7), decrease with the increasing donating capability of the bridging atom X to the metal center, i.e., via X = S < Se < Te. The oxygen bridge, however, gives the lowest insertion barrier (4.5 kcal/mol) in this group. The role of the phenyl group was explored by replacing it by C2H2 and C2H4 moieties. Having conjugation through the X−CC−Y moiety in these complexes turns out to be very ...
Compact optical transmitters for CubeSat free-space optical communications

United States. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Space Technology Research Fellowship Program)
Effect of Phytate and Other Myo‐inositol Phosphate Esters on α‐Amylase Digestion of Starch

The effects of phytate and other myo-inositol phosphate esters (containing one or more phosphate groups) on α-amylase digestion of soluble potato starch were evaluated by an in vitro procedure. Human salivary or Bacillus subtilisα-amylase was treated with either 2 mM or 5 mM phytate, myo-inositol-2-monophosphate (l–2-MP), or phytate hydrolyzed to various degrees, and then incubated at 37°C with the starch at pH 4.15 or 6.90. Starch digestion varied with degree of phosphorylation of inositol, inositol phosphate ester concentration, pH and enzyme source. At pH 4.15, phytate (2 mM) and I-2-MP (2 mM) reduced starch digestion by salivary α-amylase to 8.5 and 78.3%, respectively, of the control.
Choice of exposure scores for categorical regression in meta-analysis: a case study of a common problem.

Objective: Reporting categorical relative risk estimates for a series of exposure levels versus a common reference category is a widespread practice. In meta-analysis, categorical regression estimates a dose–response trend from such results. This method requires the assignment of a single score to each exposure category. We examined how closely meta-analytical categorical regression approximates the results of analysis based on the individual-level continuous exposure. Methods: The analysis included five studies on tea intake and outcomes related to colorectal cancer. In addition, we derived categorical mean and median values from published distributions of tea consumption in similar populations to assign scores to the categories of tea intake when possible. We examined whether these derived mean and median values well approximate the individual-level results. Results: In meta-analytical categorical regression, using the midrange scores approximated the individual-level continuous analyses reasonably well, if the value assigned to the uppermost, open-ended category was at least as high as the lower bound plus the width of the second-highest category. Categorical mean values derived from the published distributions of regular tea (in the US) and green tea (in Japan) well approximated the slope obtained from individual-level analysis. Conclusion: Publication of both the categorical and the continuous estimates of effect in primary studies, with their standard errors, can enhance the quality of meta-analysis, as well as providing intrinsically valuable information on dose–response.
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in an infant.

A full-term infant girl with history of obstructive sleep apnea, laryngomalacia, and right choanal atresia underwent microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy on day of life 35. She developed frequent apneic episodes with or without fixed gaze and stiffening of her extremities after the procedure. Head computed tomography revealed decreased attenuation involving the temporal lobes, and to a lesser degree the frontal and parietal lobes. Electroencephalograph (EEG) showed multiple focal independent discharges and numerous independent left and right occipital lobe onset seizures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain demonstrated restricted diffusion with hyperintense T2 signal and mild mass effect involving the splenium of the corpus callosum and bilateral posterior temporal and parieto-occipital lobes (Fig A-C). Review of her vital signs revealed perioperative blood pressure liability: mean systolic blood pressure of 52 mm Hg (range 32-106 mm Hg) and mean diastolic blood pressure 28 mm Hg (range 75-15 mm Hg). Blood pressures stabilized with pressure support, and frequent seizures abated with intravenous fosphenytoin and levetiracetam. The patient remained seizure free and continued on levetiracetam alone at hospital dismissal. At 3 month of age, resolution of MRI abnormalityconfirmed posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) (Fig D-F). Ophthalmologic exam showed no evidence of cortical visual impairment, and repeat EEG was normal. She remained seizure free after discontinuation of levetiracetam. PRES is characterized clinically by headache, mental status changes, seizures, and visual disturbance. Predisposing causes include hypertensive crisis, hemolytic uremic syndrome, immunosuppressive agents, and chemotherapy. MRI shows increased T2 signal involving both white and gray matter predominately over the posterior head regions. 1 Contrast enhancement and hemorrhage are seen in rare cases. 2 Restricted diffusion changes
Concentration–distance profiles resulting from the hydrogen-charging of metal lattices under high fugacity conditions

In the hydrogenation of metals under high fugacity conditions (such as electrolytic charging), non-steady state diffusion produces concentration-distance profiles which may not be calculated by assuming simple diffusion behavior. Such profiles have been calculated using finite difference methods by considering specific models for the concentration-perturbation of the appropriate jump activation barriers. The results show that much greater H concentrations are produced for a given penetration distance than would be expected by assuming fickian diffusion.
Geologic effects of hurricanes

Abstract Hurricanes are intense low pressure systems of tropical origin. Hurricane damage results from storm surge, wind, and inland flooding from heavy rainfall. Field observations and remote sensing of recent major hurricanes such as Hugo (1989), Andrew (1992) and Iniki (1992) are providing new insights into the mechanisms producing damage in these major storms. Velocities associated with hurricanes include the counterclockwise vortex winds flowing around the eye and the much slower regional winds that steer hurricane and move it forward. Vectorial addition of theseof these two winds on the higher effective wind speed than on the left side. Coast-parallel hurricane tracks keep the weaker left side of the storm against the coast, whereas coast-normal tracks produce a wide swath of destruction as the more powerful right side of the storm cuts a swath of destruction hundreds of kilometers inland. Storm surge is a function of the wind speed, central pressure, shelf slope, shoreline configuration, and anthropogenic alterations to the shoreline. Maximum surge heights are not under the eye of the hurricane, where the pressure is lowest, but on the right side of the eye at the radius of maximum winds, where the winds are strongest. Flood surge occurs as the hurricane approaches land and drives coastal waters, and superimposed waves, across the shore. Ebb surge occurs when impounded surface water flows seaward as the storm moves inland. Flood and ebb surge damage have been greatly increased in recent hurricanes as a result of anthropogenic changes along the shoreline. Hurricane wind damage occurs on three scales — megascale, mesoscale and microscale. Local wind damage is a function of wind speed, exposure and structural resistance to velocity pressure, wind drag and flying debris. Localized extreme damage is caused by gusts that can locally exceed sustained winds by a factor of two in areas where there is strong convective activity. Geologic changes occuring in hurricanes include beach erosion, dune erosion, inlet formation from flood and ebb surge, landscape changes through tree destruction by wind and nearshore channeling and sedimentation resulting from ebb surge. Multi-decadal wet and dry cycles in West Africa seem to be associated with increases (wet periods) and decreases (dry periods) in the frequency of Atlantic Coast landfalling hurricanes. Coastalzone population and development has increased markedly in a time of low hurricane frequency in the 24 year dry cycle from1970 to the present. However, no previous climatic cycle in this century has exceeded 26 years. We may entering a multi-decadal cycle of greater hurricane activity, placing these highly urbanized shorelines in considerable danger.
Immunoglobulin-A–associated small-vessel vasculitis: A 10-year experience at the Massachusetts General Hospital

Background The main morbidity associated with Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) results from glomerulonephritis and associated renal symptoms; thus early and accurate diagnosis would have follow-up implications. Objective To determine the strength of association of IgA vascular deposition with HSP in a mostly adult and hospital-based population. Methods We retrospectively analyzed patients with a histologic diagnosis of cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LCV) and corresponding direct immunofluorescence (DIF) studies between 2000 and 2010. European League Against Rheumatism criteria were used to diagnose HSP cases clinically. They are purpura or petechiae with lower limb predominance plus at least one of the following: abdominal pain, LCV or proliferative glomerulonephritis with predominant IgA deposit, arthritis/arthralgia, or proteinuria or hematuria. Results IgA positivity was significantly associated with HSP (P = .0001), and yielded sensitivity of 81% and specificity of 83%. Positive predictive value of IgA staining for HSP was 84%, and negative predictive value was 81%. No other histologic features were significantly associated with HSP. Limitations Our sample size was relatively small and mostly an inpatient population (79%). We may have missed cases of HSP and a subset of IgA+ LCV patients who did not have clinical findings of HSP by limiting our series to only cases with DIF studies done. Certain clinical data may be incomplete since they were collected retrospectively. Conclusions Our study confirms a strong association between IgA deposits on DIF and HSP, but also highlights a subset of HSP cases in which vascular IgA deposition in the skin appears to be negative.
Addendum to a new mathematical approach to metabolism of [14C]glucose: the pyruvate carboxylase reaction.

—Previously published equations for analysis of [14C]glucose metabolism assumed that products of glycolysis enter the citric acid cycle only through acetyl-CoA (Larrabee, 1978). These equations are now extended to include entrance into the citric acid cycle through the pyruvate carboxy-lase reaction as well as via acetyl-CoA and are applied to previously reported data from dorsal root ganglia of 15-day-old chicken embryos. The rate of output of labelled CO2 in the presence of [2-14C] glucose could not be accounted for if the flux rate into the citric acid cycle through the pyruvate carboxylase reaction was assumed to be more than about 10–15% of that through acetyl-CoA. It is concluded (1) that the pyruvate carboxylase reaction is a relatively minor source of material for the citric acid cycle in these ganglia and (2) that the previous conclusions about [14C]glucose metabolism, which ignored the pyruvate carboxylase reaction, need not be modified in the light of this reanalysis.
The recovery of the albino rat electroretinogram after partial light adaptation.

— The ERG obtained from albino rats was recorded every 90 sec after the eye was exposed to an adapting white light of known energy. The normalized a-wave regeneration curves for a constant test stimulus obtained from different rats, using different adapting light energies, were identical and superimposable, except that a delay between the time that the adapting light was turned off and the time that the a-wave appeared was observed for the high energy adapting light experiments. This delay increased as the adapting light energy increased.
A palinspastic reconstruction of the Coeur d'Alene mining district based on ore deposits and structural data

Two palinspastic reconstructions of the Coeur d9Alene mining district have generated similar geologic maps. One of the reconstructions is based on the types of ore deposits and movement along the Osburn and Dobson Pass faults. The other is based on a detailed analysis of structural deformation in the district. The studies show that all of the deposits in the district with the exception of the mines located on Pine Creek are localized within a large structure named the Silver synclinorium. Anomalies reported from a previous regional geochemical survey are confined to this structure and numerous fold axes and regional faults parallel the axis of the synclinorium.The different styles of deformation north and south of the Osburn fault are related to movement along the Osburn fault and structural buttressing by the Gem stocks and the Atlas pluton. Complex rotations in the Osburn fault, Placer Creek fault, and Polaris fault system may be responsible for reorienting fold trends south of the Osburn fault.
Making Brain Models

Neuroscience theories are mental models made to explain the meanings of our observations of nervous systems. Neuroscience is founded on the assumption that our models are more or less true representations of some objective reality. Theoretical models of nervous systems have their own internal structure and their own dynamics of restructuring. But theoretical models are not autonomous. They are part of larger social, cultural, and anthropological structures. At a deeper level, our theoretical models are embedded in the evolutionary process as it is expressed in our own neural and mental processes.
New aspects of temporal dispersion in high-resolution Fourier pulse shaping: a quantitative description with virtually imaged phased array pulse shapers

We report new aspects of temporal dispersion in Fourier pulse shapers that contain spectral dispersers with a nonlinear frequency to space mapping. These effects are particularly important in high-resolution operation, since high-resolution dispersers typically exhibit pronounced nonlinear angular dispersion over relatively small bandwidths. In this paper we present a general discussion of the new effects followed by quantitative analysis and experimental verification for pulse shapers, which utilize a virtually imaged phased array (VIPA) as the spectral disperser. Compared to the well-known 4-F configuration, our results demonstrate a substantial modification to the placement of the optical components required to obtain zero temporal dispersion. Furthermore, spectral phase variations associated with nonzero dispersion coupled with contributions from multiple diffraction orders are shown to give rise to a dramatic new spectral interference effect, which can be used to monitor temporal dispersion purely in the spectral domain. We expect the effects we present in this paper to become prominent even for more conventional diffraction-grating-based pulse shapers for bandwidths sufficiently large that nonlinear spectral mapping becomes strong.
Visual Attention, Conceptual Content, and Doing it Right

Reflection on the fine-grained information required for visual guidance of action has suggested that visual content is non-conceptual. I argue that in a common type of visually guided action, namely the use of manipulable artefacts, vision has conceptual content. Specifically, I show that these actions require visual attention and that concepts are involved in directing attention. In acting with artefacts, there is a way of doing it right as determined by the artefact’s conventional use. Attention must reflect our understanding of the function and appropriate ways to use these artefacts, understanding that requires possession of the relevant concept. As a result, we attend to the artefact’s relevant functional properties. In these cases, attention is structured by concepts.
Tongue Strength and Endurance in Different Aged Individuals

Background It is generally accepted that age-related changes occur in voluntary muscle. Studies of hand grip strength and aging demonstrate a decrease in strength with age; however, there are little data regarding tongue function. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of increased age to tongue strength and endurance. Methods A pressure transducer, the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument, was used to measure maximal strength and endurance of both the hand and tongue. Ninety-nine healthy volunteers from the oral physiology component of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging were divided into four age groups, ranging from 21 to 96 years of age. A multivariate analysis of variance was used to determine differences in strength and endurance between age groups and genders. Regression analysis was done to determine the relationship of strength and endurance with age. Results Gender analysis indicated that both tongue and hand strength were greater in males; however, tongue and hand endurance demonstrated no gender differences. The strength in both the tongue and hand decreased with age. Individuals over the age of 79 years showed statistically decreased tongue strength, and individuals over the age of 59 years showed statistically decreased hand strength. There was no significant change in the tongue and hand endurance with age. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that tongue function is gender- and age-dependent and follows the same trends as hand function. Tongue strength is decreased in older individuals and females, while tongue endurance is gender- and age-independent.
WAVEMAP: A geographic information system for wave modelling in coastal areas

WAVEMAP is a software developed for personal computers which combines a state-of-the-art wave refraction-diffraction model with a Geographic Information System (GIS) through a powerful graphic user interface. The wave model is based on a hybrid finite element (FE) representation of the mild slope equation (MSE) that solves wave refraction-diffraction over gently sloping topography and in domains of arbitrary coastline geometry. Interactive functions (e.g., map zooming, distance/bearing, and geographic data visualization toots) and access of geographic databases (e.g., bathymetry, coastline, currents, tide,...) are provided by the GIS. The GIS features simplify defining geographic parameters for the wave model such as coastline, bathymetry, bottom friction, and boundary absorption. Interactive generation of the FE grid and graphic visualization of results permits efficient and optimal designs of harbors, breakwaters, and other coastal structures. Applications of WAVEMAP have accurately reproduced wave refraction-diffraction, reflection, and amplification patterns in both simple and complicated domains. >