cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Reaction between Nitrite and Oxyhemoglobin: A MECHANISTIC STUDY*

The nitrite anion (NO–2) has recently received much attention as an endogenous nitric oxide source that has the potential to be supplemented for therapeutic benefit. One major mechanism of nitrite reduction is the direct reaction between this anion and the ferrous heme group of deoxygenated hemoglobin. However, the reaction of nitrite with oxyhemoglobin (oxyHb) is well established and generates nitrate and methemoglobin (metHb). Several mechanisms have been proposed that involve the intermediacy of protein-free radicals, ferryl heme, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in an autocatalytic free radical chain reaction, which could potentially limit the usefulness of nitrite therapy. In this study we show that none of the previously published mechanisms is sufficient to fully explain the kinetics of the reaction of nitrite with oxyHb. Based on experimental data and kinetic simulation, we have modified previous models for this reaction mechanism and show that the new model proposed here is consistent with experimental data. The important feature of this model is that, whereas previously both H2O2 and NO2 were thought to be integral to both the initiation and propagation steps, H2O2 now only plays a role as an initiator species, and NO2 only plays a role as an autocatalytic propagatory species. The consequences of uncoupling the roles of H2O2 and NO2 in the reaction mechanism for the in vivo reactivity of nitrite are discussed.
Electrical and contractile behavior of large intestinal musculature of piebald mouse model for Hirschsprung's disease.

These studies were directed toward better characterization of the abnormalities of motor function in the large intestine of mutant mice with congenital aganglionosis and megacolon. Analysis of pressure-volume relations in the megacolon and aganglionic terminal segment showed increased intestinal wall compliance in the dilated colon and reduced wall compliance in the aganglionic region as compared to normal littermates. Migrating contractile complexes occurred spontaneously in ganglionated regions of the large intestine of both normal and mutant mice, but never propagated into the aganglionic segment of the abnormal bowel. Tetrodotoxin eliminated the migrating complexes and increased random spontaneous contractions in all areas except the aganglionic region. Circular muscle tension was reduced by electrical field stimulation, and poststimulus rebound contractions occurred in all ganglionated regions of the intestine of both normal and mutant mice. No responses to electrical stimulation occurred in the aganglionic segments of the preparations from mutant mice. The poststimulus responses “fatigued” at a faster rate in the megacolonic region of the abnormal bowel than in the equivalent region of the normal bowel, when evoked repetitively over prolonged time periods. There were no differences between the intestines of normal and mutant mice in latency, amplitude, duration, or area under the contractile curves of the poststimulus responses. Intracellular electrical recording from circular muscle fibers revealed slow depolarizing potentials with action potentials at the crests in all regions of the large bowel from both normal and abnormal mice. It also showed excitatory and inhibitory junction potentials in response to electrical stimulation. Inhibitory junction potentials summated during repetitive stimulation and postinhibitory rebound excitation occurred after offset of the stimulation. Stimulus-evoked junction potentials were recorded in all regions of the large intestine except in the aganglionic segment of the mutant mice. We concluded that most of the electrical and mechanical behavior of the aganglionic terminal segment reflected the absence of inhibitory innervation of the musculature in this region.
Validation of Modified Family and Interparental Conflict Scales for Use with Young Adults from Divorced and Non-Divorced Families

Abstract This study investigates the reliability and validity of two modified family conflict scales, one assessing interparental conflict and the other overall family conflict. Each scale was revised in order to ease administration, improve response accuracy, and provide uniform instructions for participants from divorced and non-divorced families. The Children's Perceptions of Interparental Conflict Scale (Grych, Seid, & Fincham, 1992) was reduced from 49 to 13 items to include only those items assessing conflict intensity and frequency. For the Conflict Subscale of the Family Environment Scale (Moos & Moos, 1994), a family member checklist was added. In addition to adding uniform instructions for individuals from divorced and non-divorced families, a 6-point response format was added to both scales. Participants (N = 375) completed the revised and original scales as well as validation measures. Findings support the reliability and validity of the revised scales in assessing young adults' perceptions of...
Euler and Navier-Stokes solutions for the leeside flow over delta wings at supersonic speeds

Distinctly different types of leeside flowfields over highly swept sharp leading edge delta wings in supersonic flow were numerically simulated using Euler and Navier-Stokes solvers. The Euler code was seen to be adequate only in predicting primary flow structures (leading edge vortex and cross flow shock) whereas the Navier-Stokes code was capable of predicting secondary flow structures (i.e., secondary vortex). A comparison of laminar and turbulent Navier-Stokes solutions indicated that the turbulent boundary layer model is more accurate in predicting the effect of the boundary layer model on the flowfield. Also, the Navier-Stokes code indicated detailed flow structures not observed in the qualitative experimental data available (i.e., vapor screen photographs) indicating a need for quantitative flow field data.
Reactivity of Diazoalkanes with Tantalum(V) Complexes of a Tridentate Amido-Bis(phenolate) Ligand

While a dimethyltantalum(V) complex of the [ONOcat]3− ligand ([ONOcat]H3 = N,N-bis(3,5-di-tert-butyl-2-phenol)amine) reacted with diazoalkane to afford products of insertion into the Ta−Me bond, th...
Course-embedded research in software development courses

In this paper we describe our initiative to incorporate research, professional practice and methodologies into two undergraduate software engineering courses. As part of the Undergraduate Research Experience (URE) initiative on our campus, we modified two of our core software engineering courses. In our Software Development II (junior level) and Software Development Project (senior level) courses we integrated research projects, corporate visits and research talks to develop a deeper understanding of software engineering research and practice amongst our students.
Paliperidone Overdose With Delayed Onset of Toxicity

Paliperidone, or 9-hydroxy risperidone, is the newest atypical antipsychotic agent to be approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration. Despite being the primary active metabolite of risperidone, paliperidone differs in several ways from risperidone. The most notable difference is that paliperidone is formulated as an extended-release product. We present a case of a 14-year-old, 59-kg girl with a history of psychosis and major depressive disorder who developed toxicity after an ingestion of 180 mg (3.1 mg/kg) of paliperidone. This case is not only one of the first cases of paliperidone overdose described in the literature but also is unique in that it describes delayed onset of toxicity, as well as extended duration of symptoms.
Pressured Into Deception: Using General Strain Theory As a Framework for Testing the Validity of Self-Reported Drug Use of Respondents in Jail

Determining the accuracy and predictors of self-reported drug use is important for researchers who examine drug-related issues and for criminal justice professionals so that they are better able to...
Productive international faculty exchange: one Columbia University to Gothenburg University example

This article describes the preparation, implementation and outcomes of a visiting professor exchange experience from the United States to Sweden, and provides recommendations for other faculty who may be asked to enact a similar international role. The major goals of the visit were to coalesce the themes of the earlier administrative contacts into specific projects, and to model a scholarly faculty role consistent with the Columbia University School of Nursing mission as a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for International Nursing Development. Professional nursing activities during the exchange visit were comprised of three main categories: teaching, consultation, and socialization. Strategies are described that enhanced the bilingual lectures for the Swedish students. The relationships that developed from consulting at the college and on site at various clinical locations culminated in the mutual identification of collaborative research projects and plans for the cross-cultural adaptation of the author’s parent education model. Recommendations are made concerning the range of philosophical, institutional, professional and personal resources needed for international exchanges.
Electron-phonon coupling dynamics in very small (between 2 and 8 nm diameter) Au nanoparticles

Ultrafast laser experiments were used to study electron-phonon coupling in Au nanoparticles in the 2.5 to 8 nm size range in aqueous solution. The electron-phonon coupling constants for these samples were found to be independent of the particle size. This is attributed to a weak interaction between the electron gas and the surface phonon modes in Au. Calculations were performed which show that the coupling between the hot electrons and the surface accounts for less than 10% of the total electron energy losses for these particles. Thus, bulk electron-phonon coupling dominates the relaxation of excited electrons in Au particles, for particles as small as several hundred atoms.
Smoothness Properties and Gradient Analysis Under Spatial Dirichlet Process Models

When analyzing point-referenced spatial data, interest will be in the first order or global behavior of associated surfaces. However, in order to better understand these surfaces, we may also be interested in second order or local behavior, e.g., in the rate of change of a spatial surface at a given location in a given direction. In a Bayesian parametric setting, such smoothness analysis has been pursued by Banerjee and Gelfand (2003) and Banerjee et al. (2003). We study continuity and differentiability of random surfaces in the Bayesian nonparametric setting proposed by Gelfand et al. (2005), which is based on the formulation of a spatial Dirichlet process (SDP). We provide conditions under which the random surfaces sampled from a SDP are smooth. We also obtain complete distributional theory for the directional finite difference and derivative processes associated with those random surfaces. We present inference under a Bayesian framework and illustrate our methodology with a simulated dataset.
Permeability of municipal solid waste in bioreactor landfill with degradation

Bioreactor landfills are operated for rapid stabilization of waste, increased landfill gas generation for cost-effective energy recovery, gain in landfill space, enhanced leachate treatment, and reduced post closure maintenance period. The fundamental process of waste stabilization in bioreactor landfill is recirculation of generated leachate back into the landfills. This creates a favorable environment for rapid microbial decomposition of the biodegradable solid waste. In order to better estimate the generated leachate and design of leachate recirculation system, clear understanding of the permeability of the Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) with degradation and the factors influencing the permeability is necessary. The objective of the paper is to determine the changes in hydraulic properties of MSW in bioreactor landfill with time and decomposition. Four small-scale bioreactor landfills were built in laboratory and samples were prepared to represent each phase of decomposition. Then, the changes in hydraulic properties of MSW in bioreactor landfill with time and decomposition were determined. A series of constant head permeability tests were performed on the samples generated in laboratory scale bioreactor landfills to determine variation of permeability of MSW with degradation. The test results indicated that the permeability of MSW in bioreactor landfills decreases with decomposition. Based on the test results, the permeability of MSW at the first phase of degradation was estimated as 0.0088 cm/s at density 700 kg/m3. However, with degradation, permeability decreased to 0.0013 cm/s at the same density, for MSW at Phase IV.
Chromatin Signatures in Multipotent Human Hematopoietic Stem Cells Indicate the Fate of Bivalent Genes during Differentiation

Histone modifications have been implicated in stem cell maintenance and differentiation. We have analyzed genome-wide changes in gene expression and histone modifications during differentiation of multipotent human primary hematopoietic stem cells/progenitor cells (HSCs/HPCs) into erythrocyte precursors. Our data indicate that H3K4me1, H3K9me1, and H3K27me1 associate with enhancers of differentiation genes prior to their activation and correlate with basal expression, suggesting that these monomethylations are involved in the maintenance of activation potential required for differentiation. In addition, although the majority of genes associated with both H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 in HSCs/HPCs become silent and lose H3K4me3 after differentiation, those that lose H3K27me3 and become activated after differentiation are associated with increased levels of H2A.Z, H3K4me1, H3K9me1, H4K20me1, and RNA polymerase II in HSCs/HPCs. Thus, our data suggest that gene expression changes during differentiation are programmed by chromatin modifications present at the HSC/HPC stage and provide a resource for enhancer and promoter identification.
On the assimilation-discrimination relationship in American English adults' French vowel learning

A quantitative “cross-language assimilation overlap” method for testing predictions of the Perceptual Assimilation Model (PAM) was implemented to compare results of a discrimination experiment with the listeners’ previously reported assimilation data. The experiment examined discrimination of Parisian French (PF) front rounded vowels /y/ and /œ/. Three groups of American English listeners differing in their French experience (no experience [NoExp], formal experience [ModExp], and extensive formal-plus-immersion experience [HiExp]) performed discrimination of PF /y-u/, /y-o/, /œ-o/, /œ-u/, /y-i/, /y-ɛ/, /œ-ɛ/, /œ-i/, /y-œ/, /u-i/, and /a-ɛ/. Vowels were in bilabial /rabVp/ and alveolar /radVt/ contexts. More errors were found for PF front vs back rounded vowel pairs (16%) than for PF front unrounded vs rounded pairs (2%). Overall, ModExp listeners did not perform more accurately (11% errors) than NoExp listeners (13% errors). Extensive immersion experience, however, was associated with fewer errors (3%) than formal experience alone, although discrimination of PF /y-u/ remained relatively poor (12% errors) for HiExp listeners. More errors occurred on pairs involving front vs back rounded vowels in alveolar context (20% errors) than in bilabial (11% errors). Significant correlations were revealed between listeners’ assimilation overlap scores and their discrimination errors, suggesting that the PAM may be extended to second-language (L2) vowel learning.
The spectrum of mesenteric infarction.

Abstract Over the last ten years, 140 cases of mesenteric infarction were treated at the King County Hospital. In half of these cases no anatomic vascular obstruction was demonstrated. In the other half, atheroma, thrombus, or embolus obstructed a major mesenteric artery. In only a few cases could infarction be attributed to isolated venous thrombosis. A comparison of the clinical and autopsy data revealed only a few significant differences between those patients with functional and those with anatomic obstructions. Of possible importance was the finding that significantly more of the patients with functional obstruction were taking digitalis. Over 90 per cent of the patients in both groups had significant cardiac disease and many had congestive failure. It is very likely that low cardiac output is one of the most important etiologic factors in both groups. Splanchnic vasoconstriction in response to low cardiac output further diminishes mesenteric flow. Intimal proliferation of the vasa recta may have been present in some of those who were assumed to have no anatomic obstruction. Mesenteric ischemia should be suspected in all elderly cardiac patients with unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms. Improved medical management may prevent some cases of infarction. Mesenteric arteriography will reveal atherosclerotic lesions in certain cases and infarction may be prevented in some of these by endarterectomy or bypass procedures. When pain becomes constant and progressively intense, prompt celiotomy is recommended. All questionably involved bowel must be resected and every effort made to improve blood flow to the remaining areas.
Antagonism of colistin-sulphonamide synergism by para-aminobenzoic acid.

RUSSELL1 reported an in vitro synergism between colistin methane sulphonate and sulphonamide drugs using a number of Proteus isolates. He found that the combinations were bactericidal at therapeutic levels, that the ratios of the drugs were not critical, and that the effect was present over a wide range of hydrogen ion concentration. The observations were extended to polymyxin B sulphate and sulphonamides with similar results.
Perception of Orientation of Motion as Affected by Change in Divergence of Texture, Change in Size, and in Velocity

When there is relative motion between an observer and a textured surface such as the ground, motion-related visual information is available about the orientation of the surface through vergence of the paths of the elements of the texture, change in their sizes and in their velocities. This experiment determined the perceptual effectiveness of each variable in foveal and peripheral viewing for producing perceptions of three-dimensional motion. The three variables were electronically separated and displayed singly, in all possible pairs, and all together. Subjects communicated their perceptions of degree of perceived surface tilt at the top, bottom, and middle of the display for the eight different combinations of variables because, during pilot work perceived surface bendings were frequently noted where top, bottom, and middle appeared tilted to different extents. All three variables can lead to relatively reliable perceptions of perceived orientation of the plane of motion, with change in velocity being the most powerful determiner. Change in size was the weakest. Certain combinations can lead to perceptions of extreme warping and should be avoided in motion displays. Subjects consistently underestimate the amount of simulated tilt. Foveal viewing was more accurate than peripheral viewing but peripheral performance was adequately consistent as an input channel for some orientation tasks.
SENSITIZING PARENT EDUCATION PROGRAMS TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CONCERNS: The Perspective of the New York State Parent Education Advisory Board

Education programs for divorcing and separating parents are a valuable vehicle for providing to parents the awareness, knowledge, and skills that can lead to a smoother transition and healthier outcomes for their children. Attention to safety concerns in referral guidelines, administrative protocols, and curriculum content is integral to the efficacious and responsible delivery of parent education. This article examines the recent experience of New York State in developing guidelines for safety and quality assurance in parent education programs.
Characterizing the viscosity–temperature dependence of lubricants by molecular simulation

An understanding of the relationship between chemical structure and lubricant performance is highly desirable from both a fundamental and a practical perspective, such knowledge being vital to improve the performance of mineral oils and to guide the design of future synthetic lubricants. The rheological properties of alkanes of intermediate molecular size (C20–C40) are of particular interest as they form the main constituents of lubricant basestocks. In this work, we determine the viscosity number (VN) for a number of alkanes in the mass range of interest by molecular simulation. Quantitative agreement with experimental data for all systems studied is achieved, further illustrating the value of molecular simulation in predicting lubricant properties and its potential for providing guidance in the design of synthetic lubricants with desired properties. © 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Large Trench-Parallel Gravity Variations Predict Seismogenic Behavior in Subduction Zones

We demonstrate that great earthquakes occur predominantly in regions with a strongly negative trench-parallel gravity anomaly (TPGA), whereas regions with strongly positive TPGA are relatively aseismic. These observations suggest that, over time scales up to at least 1 million years, spatial variations of seismogenic behavior within a given subduction zone are stationary and linked to the geological structure of the fore-arc. The correlations we observe are consistent with a model in which spatial variations in frictional properties on the plate interface control trench-parellel variations in fore-arc topography, gravity, and seismogenic behavior.
Valuing the flexibility of flexible manufacturing systems

The author studies the topical issue of flexible manufacturing system (FMS) justification. He contends that current evaluation methods fall short of capturing a key advantage of an FMS: the value of flexibility. He identifies various benefits of FMS that arise from the ability to switch between modes of production, and in particular, he models the value derived from the ability to better cope with uncertainty. A model to capture this value must solve for the value of flexibility together with the dynamic operating schedule of the production process. He presents a stochastic dynamic programming model that captures the essential elements of this problem. A numerical example further demonstrates the optimal mode switching decision rules. >
Extraction Not Creation: The History of Offshore Petroleum in the Gulf of Mexico

Offshore development is one of the most important but least analyzed chapters in the history of the petroleum industry, and the Gulf of Mexico is themost explored, drilled, and developed offshore petroleum province in the world. This essay examines offshore oil and gas development in the Gulf of Mexico, highlighting the importance of access and how the unique geology and geography of the Gulf shaped both access and technology. Interactions between technology, capital, geology, and the political structure of access in the Gulf of Mexico generated a functionally and regionally complex extractive industry that repeatedly resolved the material and economic contradictions of expanding into deeper water. This was not achieved, however, simply through technological miracles or increased mastery over the environment, as industry experts and popular accounts often imply. The industry moved deeper only by more profoundly adapting to the environment, not by transcending its limits. This essay diverges from celebratory narratives about offshore development and from interpretations that emphasize the social construction of the environment. It challenges the storyline of market-driven technology and its miraculous ability to expand and create petroleum abundance in the Gulf.
Up-regulation of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide in urinary bladder pathways after chronic cystitis.

These studies examined changes in the expression of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) in micturition reflex pathways after chronic cystitis induced by cyclophosphamide (CYP). In control Wistar rats, PACAP immunoreactivity was expressed in fibers in the superficial dorsal horn at all segmental levels examined (L1, L2, and L4-S1). Bladder afferent cells (40-45%) in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG; L1, L2, L6, and S1) from control animals also exhibited PACAP immunoreactivity. After chronic, CYP-induced cystitis, PACAP immunoreactivity increased dramatically in spinal segments and DRG (L1, L2, L6, and S1) involved in micturition reflexes. The density of PACAP immunoreactivity was increased in the superficial laminae (I-II) of the L1, L2, L6, and S1 spinal segments. No changes in PACAP immunoreactivity were observed in the L4-L5 segments. Staining also increased dramatically in a fiber bundle extending ventrally from Lissauer's tract in lamina I along the lateral edge of the dorsal horn to the sacral parasympathetic nucleus in the L6-S1 spinal segments (lateral collateral pathway of Lissauer). After chronic cystitis, PACAP immunoreactivity in cells in the L1, L2, L6, and S1 DRG increased significantly (P </= 0.0001), and the percentage of bladder afferent cells expressing PACAP immunoreactivity also increased significantly (P </= 0.0001; 70-85%). No changes were observed in the L3-L5 DRG. These studies suggest that the neuropeptide, PACAP, may play a role in urinary bladder afferent pathways after visceral (urinary bladder) inflammation. Changes in PACAP expression after cystitis may play a role in altered visceral sensation (allodynia) and/or urinary bladder hyperreflexia in the clinical syndrome, interstitial cystitis.
Effects of age, sex, prior experience, and intraspecific food variation on diet composition of a tropical folivore (Phasmatodea: Phasmatidae)

Recent attention in ecology has focused on factors that influence the foraging behavior of herbivores. We evaluated responses to different arrays of food plants exhibited by an abundant folivore within the tabonuco forest of Puerto Rico. Previous work indicates that the walkingstick Lamponius portoricensis Rehn forages on a limited array of plant species and selects habitats that contain high densities of Piper treleaseanum Britton Wilson. We designed three separate experiments to evaluate (1) if walkingsticks of different ages or of different sex have different food preferences, (2) if previous exposure to only one food type affects subsequent diet composition, and (3) if walkingsticks distinguish among leaves of different quality from the same plant. Four plants [Dendropanax arboreus (L.) Decne Planch, Piper hispidum Sw., P. treleaseanum, and Urera baccifera (L.) Gaud.] known to be forage for this insect were used in food choice experiments. Multi- variate analyses revealed that, at different ages, males and females exhibit different patterns of consumption. Likewise, preexposure to only one food influences subsequent diet differently depending upon preexposure regime and sex. In addition, preferences are shown for different qualities of leaves within single forage species. In particular, lower (older) leaves of P. treleaseanum are preferred, whereasmore » leaves of D. arboreus and U. baccifera are eaten indiscriminately. These results are consistent with the contention that herbivores forage within nutritional constraints. In addition, walkingsticks distinguish between plant species, recognize differences in leaf quality associated with age or position, and modify their diet to reflect past experience.« less
p53 Rescue through HDM2 Antagonism Suppresses Melanoma Growth and Potentiates MEK Inhibition

Oncogenesis reflects an orchestrated interaction between misguided growth signals. Although much effort has been launched to pharmacologically disable activated oncogenes, one sidelined approach is the restoration of tumor suppressive signals. As TP53 is often structurally preserved, but functionally crippled, by CDKN2A/ARF loss in melanoma, rescue of p53 function represents an attractive point of vulnerability in melanoma. In this study, we showed that both p53 protein and activity levels in melanoma cells were strongly induced by nutlin-3, a canonical HDM2 antagonist. Among a test panel of 51 cell lines, there was a marked reduction in melanoma viability that was directly linked to TP53 status. Moreover, we also found that the melanoma growth suppression mediated by mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase inhibition was potentiated by HDM2 antagonism. These results provide fundamental insights into the intact p53 circuitry, which can be restored through small molecule inhibitors and potentially deployed for therapeutic gain.
Analytical and numerical modeling of an ultrasonic stepping motor using standing waves

Piezoelectric motors (usually called ultrasonic) show interesting characteristics. Not only do they deliver high torques at low speeds but their structure confers to them a braking torque without energy supply. This paper first presents a list of possible solutions for this type of motor. Thereafter, the most promising solution is chosen and developed more in detail. Finite element simulations of the vibration modes of the motor are carried out with the aim of determining the resonance frequency of the system for the selected mode. A theoretical modeling of the operating principle of the motor is established in order to be able to characterize the position, speed and torque according to the selected parameters. Lastly, the feasibility and the characteristics of such a motor are discussed.
Predicting Positive Well-Being in Older Men and Women.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of background, psychological, and social variables on older adults' well-being, and how this may differ for men and women. Participants included 800 adults from the 2002 Health and Retirement Study (HRS), aged 60 to 101 years old (M = 71.22, SD = 8.46), who completed the optional positive well-being module. Gender-based regression models revealed that for men, marital status, self-rated health, and depression were significant predictors and accounted for 32% of the variability in positive well-being. Similar to men, self-rated health and depression were significant predictors of well-being for women. Additional significant predictors for women included age, the importance of religion, and volunteer work. Combined, these variables explained 35% of the variance in women's positive well-being. These results can help us understand which variables are important to target when developing interventions to improve the well-being of older men and women.
Detecting Emotions and Dangerous Actions for Better Human-System Team Working

As situations change very often and extensively today, design is moving toward user-centric because designers cannot foresee the operating conditions and it is a user who knows the situations. Thus, what is called for in a system is to help a user understand the situation better and to help him or her to respond better. Thus, human characteristics must be considered more in a system design. But recent brain studies reveal that in an unexpected situation, humanpsilas brain capability decreases considerably, down to the level of about 30% of the normal state because a human becomes emotionally unstable. Therefore, it will be very important in our future system design to keep a user emotionally stable. We carried out a series of experiments and developed several methods to detect emotions from face, from voice and from body motion and to detect dangerous actions from body motion. Our immediate goal is to apply these techniques to realize safer driving.
Watch and Learn? Infants Privilege Efficiency over Pedagogy during Imitative Learning.

This experiment tested how 18-month-old infants' prior experience with an object affects their imitation. Specifically, we asked whether infants would imitate an adult who used her head to illuminate a light-box if they had earlier discovered that the light could be illuminated with their hands. In the Self-Discovery condition, infants had the opportunity to freely explore the light-box; all infants used their hands to activate the light-box at least once during this period. The experimenter then entered the room and, while providing explicit pedagogical cues, demonstrated illuminating the light-box using her forehead. In the Demonstration Only condition, infants just viewed the experimenter's demonstration. During a subsequent testing phase, infants in the Demonstration Only condition were more likely to use their foreheads to activate the light-box. Conversely, infants in the Self-Discovery condition were more likely to use their hands, suggesting that efficiency can "trump" pedagogy in some observational learning contexts.
Climatic Changes in Southern Connecticut Recorded by Pollen Deposition at Rogers Lake

Rates of deposition of pollen grains throughout late— and postglacial time were determined from the pollen concentration in radiocarbon—dated sediment. Changes by a factor of 5 or more for all except rate pollen types from one level to the next were considered significant indication of changes in the pollen input to the lake, reflecting changes in the pollen productivity of the surrounding vegetation. Low pollen deposition rates in the oldest sediments reflect the prevalence of tundra vegetation between 14,000 and 12,000 years ago. An increase in the rate for tree pollen occurred 12,000 years ago, when boreal woodland became established. The rates continued to increase until a sudden sharp rise for white pine, hemlock, poplar, oak, and maple pollen 9,000 years ago marked the establishment of forest, similar perhaps to modern forests of the northern Great Lakes region. Pine pollen rates decline 8,000 years ago, and deciduous tree pollen became dominant. Ragweed pollen was deposited at relatively high rates...
An analytic solution to SIMOX oxygen implant profiles using joined half-Gaussian distributions

The authors describe the results of an analytic investigation of SIMOX (separation by implanted oxygen) oxide/silicon profiles using a joined half-Gaussian approximation to the instantaneous oxygen implant distribution. The advantage of this approach over computer-generated solutions is that it provides an easy way to see the effects of variations in the physical parameters of the implant process on variations in the features of the resulting SIMOX materials. These results can then be used to relate variations in SIMOX fabrication parameters to resulting variations in final device performance. It is shown that a dimensionless parameter which can be used to gauge several significant features of the implant process is the product of the extension of the silicon surface due to volume expansion from the implanted oxygen and the saturation value of oxygen in the resulting buried oxide. >
Ultra-wideband slot-loaded antipodal Vivaldi antenna array

A slot loading exploited as a novel termination of conventional Vivaldi antennas is introduced. This named slot-loaded Vivaldi antenna has been demonstrated to have the impedance bandwidth of over 25∶1. In addition, an 1×4 H-plane phased array is constructed to demonstrate maximum 30 degree scan angle operated at the ultra-wide bandwidth of 4–16 GHz.
Automatic language identification using Gaussian mixture and hidden Markov models

Ergodic, continuous-observation, hidden Markov models (HMMs) were used to perform automatic language classification and detection of speech messages. State observation probability densities were modeled as tied Gaussian mixtures. The algorithm was evaluated on four multilanguage speech databases: a three language subset of the Spoken Language Library, a three language subset of a five-language Rome Laboratory database, the 20-language CCITT database, and the ten-language OGI (Oregon Graduate Institute) telephone speech database. In general, the performance of a single state HMM (i.e., a static Gaussian mixture classifier) was comparable with that of the multistate HMMs, indicating that the sequential modeling capabilities of HMMs were not exploited. >
Impact on Hospital Policy: Yale Experience

To limit patients who may be at risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis from exposure to gadolinium-based magnetic resonance contrast agents, new policies and procedures have been implemented at Yale-New Haven Hospital. These changes include screening patients for low estimated glomerular filtration rates and risk factors for chronic kidney disease, giving increased attention to the types and doses of contrast agent administered, agreement on alternative imaging algorithms, and education at all levels of the medical community. The rationale for these changes is discussed.
Overcoming barriers and uncertainties in the adoption of residential solar PV

Abstract In recent years decreasing hardware costs have driven down the installed price of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and spurred adoption. However, system cost is not the only barrier faced by solar adopters. Potential adopters also face various informational barriers, leading to high indirect costs during the information search process. There is a significant gap in the literature for empirical work on solar adoption linking how the information context (installer marketing; neighbors with solar, i.e., peer effects; etc.) interacts with a potential adopter's motivations to impact decision outcomes. To address this gap we present results of a new survey on the decision-making process of residential PV adopters in northern California. The main aspects of our analysis include: salient motivating factors, information gathering process, peer effects, role of installers, and factors driving the choice of outright purchase versus third-party ownership (e.g., leasing) modes of adoption. We find that installers and neighbors play important, but often supplementary, roles throughout the decision-making process and have influence on both the decision to adopt as well as on the mode of adoption. Furthermore, expected financial returns and concerns about operations and maintenance are the main determining factors for the mode of adoption.
Abstract 2542: Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Dantrolene for the Prevention and Treatment of Cerebral Vasospasm After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage - Interim Analysis

Introduction: Cerebral vasospasm (cVSP) after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a major cause of disability and death. Dantrolene blocks ryanodine receptor-mediated intracellular calcium release from the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum. It is neuroprotective in animal models and may attenuate cerebral vasoconstriction. Safety and feasibility of a single dose with aSAH has recently been demonstrated in humans. We present the interim safety analysis of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial using repeated doses. Methods: In this single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase II trial, 30 patients with aSAH are being enrolled comparing intravenous dantrolene 1.25 mg IV every 6 hours x 7 days to placebo. The primary endpoint is incidence and degree of hyponatremia (sNa ≤ 134 mEq/L) and liver toxicity (proportion of patients who develop liver function tests ALT, AST and AlkPhos >5x upper limit of normal). Secondary safety endpoints include tolerability, systemic hypotension, and intracranial hypertension. Efficacy assessments include occurrence of clinical and angiographic cVSP, and three-month clinical outcome. This pre-planned interim safety analysis was conducted after 16 patients. Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric tests due to the small n. Longitudinal data were analyzed using Generalized Estimating Equation. Results: Randomization resulted in equal n=8 per group. No group imbalances were noted except that three patients in the placebo had dropped out: two due to nausea/vomiting, one due to headache. Hyponatremia occurred in n=7/8 (87.5%) in the placebo, and n=5/8 (62.5%) in the dantrolene group (χ 2 ; p=0.285). Mean sNa decreased in both groups, with a maximal Δ -5±4.8 mEq/L in the placebo and -3.9±2.3 mEq/L in the dantrolene group (GEE; p=0.8333). To treat hyponatremia, 444±430 mEq of Na was used in the placebo vs. 303±380 mEq in the dantrolene group (Wilcoxon; p=0.47). No patient developed liver toxicity. Systemic hypotension occurred never in the placebo vs. once in the dantrolene group. No intracranial hypertension occurred. There were 3 adverse events reported in the placebo, vs. 9 in the dantrolene group (of which only vein irritation/infiltration were attributed to drug). There was one death in each group, both unrelated to the study. Conclusions: This interim analysis shows that there are no major safety concerns thus far. The DSMB has recommended the continuation of the study. Due to the small n, an efficacy analysis will be performed with the final study analysis.
Symplectic critical models in 6 + ϵ dimensions

Abstract We consider nontrivial critical models in d = 6 + ϵ spacetime dimensions with anticommuting scalars transforming under the symplectic group Sp ( N ) . These models are nonunitary, but the couplings are real and all operator dimensions are positive. At large N we can take ϵ → 1 consistently with the loop expansion and thus provide evidence that these theories may be used to define critical models in d = 7 . The relation of these theories to critical Sp ( N ) theories, defined similarly to the well-known critical O ( N ) theories, is examined, and some similarities are pointed out.
Modelling and experimental validation of the displacement of a check valve in a hydraulic piston pump

AbstractA variety of methods have previously been applied to modelling hydraulic check valves. While the theoretical framework has been established, robust experimental validation of check valve models is lacking. When present, validation methods typically rely on measurements of pressure differential or flow rates, from which check valve dynamics are inferred. In this paper, a lumped parameter model is constructed for a disc style check valve used to control the inlet and outlet flow of a piston pump. Pressure, spring, contact, stiction, and flow forces are investigated to determine which have a significant effect on the check valve dynamics. An experimental pump circuit is constructed and an acrylic sight glass is installed on the check valve manifolds. A method of directly measuring the check valve position during operation using a Laser Triangulation Sensor (LTS) is developed by applying Snell’s law to the air-acrylic and acrylic-oil interfaces and calculating laser refraction to obtain a relationship...
Pancreatic duct glands (PDG), a progenitor stem cell niche responsible for pancreatic epithelial renewal and repair in response to inflammatory injury

University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA Background: There is growing concern over rising healthcare costs, which are primarily driven by hospital (re)admissions. The cost of pancreatitis care in the US was $3.7 billion in 2004. We recently reported on the absolute risk of readmission after initial hospitalization for AP and CP in Allegheny County, PA. Aim: To evaluate the overall burden and pattern of readmissions in these cohorts. Methods: We identified all unique White or Black Allegheny County residents with first hospital admission for AP or CP from 1996-2005 using Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) dataset. Final study population consisted of patients (AP: 6010; CP: 868) who survived index admission and had follow up data available. Etiology was determined using associated diagnosis (Dx) codes. We analyzed pancreatitis related readmission data (type, number, patterns) until 3rd quarter 2007 (median follow up w40 months). Results: Readmission with Primary AP or CP (PriAPCP) or any pancreatitis (AnyPanc) Dx was noted in 24% and 33% in AP; 45% and 58% in CP cohort respectively. In patients with readmissions, total (average) number of readmissions with PriAPCP and AnyPanc Dx were 3757 (2.7) and 6543 (3.4) in AP; 1836 (4.7) and 3485 (6.9) in CP cohort respectively. Readmission burden was disproportionately high due to alcohol (etiology in 20% AP and 32% CP cohorts respectively which accounted for a readmission burden of w40-50%). Readmission patterns during follow up differed by etiology (more frequent and wider distribution in alcoholic; less frequent, occurring closer to index admission in non-alcoholic etiologies); type of pancreatitis (readmissions related to CP and in CP patients more frequent than AP) and age (more frequent and wider distribution in patients aged <65 yrs). Conclusions: Our study provides important insights into the burden and factors influencing pancreatitis readmissions. Focused evaluation of the reasons for readmissions and appropriate strategies to address them may decrease hospitalizations and reduce overall healthcare costs for pancreatitis.
Mortality of Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Eggs in Cotton as a Function of Oviposition Sites, Predator Species, and Desiccation

Predation rates of Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) eggs on cotton plants were determined by placing 32P-labeled moth eggs on different types of plant structures throughout the vertical strata of cotton plants. There was a slight trend for predation rates to be greater toward the top of the plants. Egg predation rates were higher on mainstem and fruiting branch terminals, and on blooms than on other plant parts. Similar predation rates (=75%) were observed on abaxial and adaxial leaf surfaces. Seasonal predation rates averaged 81.7 and 81.4 in 1982 and 1983, respectively. Rates began high each year (81.8–100%) and slowly decreased toward the end of the growing season when rates ranged from 55 to 80%. Predation by sucking predators ranged from 14.2–37.0% Orius tristicolor (White), O. insidiosus (Say), Geocoris punctipes (Say), and Pseudatomoscelis seriatus (Reuter) were the most important. Chewing predators accounted for 0.8–22.9% of the predation. Solenopsis invicta (Buren) was observed removing more eggs from plants than any other predator species. Ground based predators added significantly to egg predation. Mortality rates of eggs dislodged to the soil surface were also investigated. Nearly 90% of eggs placed on the soil surface were predated in <48h. Eggs that escaped predation but that were exposed to high midday soil temperatures (e.g., 45.5°C) died of exposure. Larvae safely eclosed from eggs placed in shaded locations near the plant bases.
Combination chemotherapy of cancer: potentiation of carcinostatic activity of 8-azaguanine by 6-formylpteridine.

Summary1. 2-Amino-4-hydroxy-6-formyl pteridine (6-formylpteridine), although non-carcinostatic by itself, augmented the carcinostatic action of 8-azaguanine against a mammary adenocarcinoma. This effect was found to be dependent upon a time interval between the injection of 6-formylpteridine and 8-azaguanine. 2. 6-Formylpteridine inhibited the in vitro deamination of 8-azaguanine by tumor extracts. Pre-incubation of enzyme with inhibitor was found to be essential for maximal inhibition. 3. It was postulated that the enhanced carcinostatic effect observed in vivo could be due to inhibition of 8-azaguanine deamination by 6-formylpteridine, since the deaminated product (8-azaxanthine) is non-carcinostatic.We wish to express our appreciation to Dr. J. M. Ruegsegger of the Lederle Laboratories, Pearl River, N. Y., for supplies of 8-azaguanine, and to Drs. R. O. Roblin, Jr., and J. M. Smith, Jr., of the American Cyanamid Co., Stamford, Conn., and Bound Brook, N. J., for 6-formylpteridine.We wish to acknowledge ...