cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ultrastructural analysis of ventrolateral periaqueductal gray projections to the A7 catecholamine cell group.

Abstract Stimulation of neurons in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray produces antinociception that is mediated in part by pontine noradrenergic neurons. Previous light microscopic analysis provided suggestive evidence for a direct projection from neurons in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray to noradrenergic neurons in the A7 cell group that innervate the spinal cord dorsal horn. Therefore, the present ultrastructural study used anterograde tracing combined with tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity to provide definitive evidence that neurons in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray form synapses with the somata and dendrites of noradrenergic neurons of the A7 cell group. Injections of the anterograde tracers biotinylated dextran amine or Phaseolus vulgaris leucoagglutinin into the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray of Sasco Sprague–Dawley rats yielded a dense innervation in the region of the lateral pons containing the A7 cell group. Electron microscopic analysis of anterogradely labeled terminals ( n =401) in the region of the A7 cell group indicated that approximately 10% of these formed plasmalemmal appositions to tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive dendrites with no intervening astrocytic processes. About 23% of these were asymmetric synapses, 10% were symmetric synapses, and 67% did not exhibit clearly differentiated synaptic specializations. The majority of anterogradely labeled terminals (60%) formed plasmalemmal appositions with dendrites and somata that lacked detectable tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity. About 35% of these were symmetric synapses, 9% were asymmetric synapses and 56% did not form synaptic specializations. Approximately 30% of all anterogradely labeled terminals displayed features characteristic of axo-axonic synapses. The present results provide direct ultrastructural evidence to support the hypothesis that the analgesia produced by stimulation of neurons in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray is mediated, in part, by activation of spinally projecting noradrenergic neurons in the A7 catecholamine cell group.
A terahertz detector and optical parametric generator for remote sensing applications

Terahertz remote-sensing applications require high sensitivity detectors and high-power terahertz sources. The reason for this is that terahertz signals can be quickly attenuated by water molecules present in the target, as well as in the environment between the source and the target. Of the many terahertz source technologies available, the one based on the optical parametric generation technique seems to be the most promising, as it is portable and can produce a relatively high-power terahertz beam. At present we are developing a terahertz source based on an optical parametric technique. We have used a Nd:YAG Q-switched laser as the pump source, and a LiNbO 3 crystal as the optical parametric medium. With LiNbO 3 our generator could produce a terahertz beam over the frequency range of 100 GHz through 3 THz. The output power was highly dependent on the properties of the material. For terahertz detection we have used a Si-bolometer or an electro-optic (EO) detector, which was specifically developed to detect CW terahertz signals. In addition to the EO sensor, we are presently developing a new detector based on a quantum-dot structure, whose noise equivalent power (NEP) is expected to be about 10 -21 W/(Hz) 1/2 . This is several orders of magnitude better than the sensitivity of our bolometer (10- 13 W/(Hz) 1/2 ) at 4.2 K, or our EO detector (10 -12 W/(Hz) 1/2 ) at room temperature.
Seeing is believing: the importance of video laryngoscopy in teaching and in managing the difficult airway

Of the several million patients who undergo surgery in North America annually, a large proportion undergo intubation of the trachea. In approximately 90% of these patients, the endotracheal tube is introduced using a traditional laryngoscope with a battery in the handle and a small bulb near the tip of the blade. This bulb provides a limited and often dim view of the glottic structures. In about 10% of cases, the patient is intubated using a flexible fiberoptic intubating scope. The authors have developed a video laryngoscope that preserves the standard blade configuration with a modified handle. A 3-mm image light guide is built into the blade, replacing the bulb. A small TV camera with an incorporated light bundle is inserted into the handle. A wide-angle panoramic view of the upper airway anatomy is displayed on a TV screen, which can be positioned at a convenient working distance. The use of a TV monitor is a well-accepted standard during minimally invasive surgical procedures.
Vacuum outgassing from diffuse-absorptive baffle materials

Quantitative measurements of outgassing for Martin black and a variety of metallic, diffuse absorptive baffle materials under development for stray light management are reported here. Outgassing measurements were made during pumpdown from atmosphere at room temperature. Mass scans indicate water was the major outgassing species for all materials tested. Calibrated measurements of water vapor outgassing as a function of time were also made for each baffle material. Most baffle materials exhibited total water vapor outgassed during pumpdown of between 1 x 10 exp -5 and 4 x 10 exp -5 moles/sq cm. Plasma sprayed beryllium, currently under development exhibited approximately an order of magnitude lower total water vapor outgassed during pumpdown.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The Influence of Soil Wetness on Near-Surface Atmospheric Variability

Abstract The influence of land surface processes on near-surface atmospheric variability on seasonal and interannual time scales is studied using output from two integrations of a general circulation model. In the first experiment of 50 years duration, soil moisture is predicted, thereby taking into consideration interactions between the surface moisture budget and the atmosphere. In the second experiment, of 25 years duration, the seasonal cycle of soil moisture is prescribed at each grid point based upon the results of the first integration, thereby suppressing thew interactions. The same seasonal cycle of soil moisture is prescribed for each year of the second integration. Differences in atmospheric variability between the two integrations are due to interactions between the surface moisture budget and the atmosphere. Analyses of monthly data indicate that the surface moisture budget interacts with the atmosphere in such a way as to lengthen the time scales of fluctuations of near-surface relative humi...
Towards an automated ocean feature detection, extraction and classification scheme for SAR imagery

Spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) observation is an important tool for monitoring and studying changes in various geophysical elements in and above world oceans. Because of SAR's ideal imaging capability and high resolution, the collection of SAR data will likely extend well into the 21st century. As the data become increasingly abundant and computers faster and more affordable, it naturally leads to an increasing need for an automated procedure to replace the labour-intensive manual screening process. In this paper, an integrated scheme for detection, extraction and classification of linear ocean features in SAR imagery is attempted for the purpose of automated screening. The methodology consists of feature detection based on greyscale histogram screening, feature extraction based on two-dimensional wavelet analysis and feature classification based on texture analysis. Using these algorithms on SAR data, several case studies of linear ocean features, including fronts, ice edges and a polar low, a...
MOVPE grown InGaAs/GaAsSb type II quantum well photodiode for SWIR focal plane array

Infrared sensors with type II quantum well structure have gained great attention and have shown advanced progress. InGaAs/GaAsSb type II quantum well structures are considered as an attractive material system for realizing low dark current PDs owing to lattice-matching to InP substrate. In this report, we describe successful operation of PIN-PDs with InGaAs/GaAsSb quantum wells grown by metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE). MOVPE method is well-known to have good uniformity which leads to mass-production of focal plane array. Planer type pin-PDs were adopted. The p-n junction was formed in the absorption layer by the selective diffusion of zinc. Electrical and optical characteristics of pin-PDs such as well number dependence of responsivity, were investigated. Dark current was 9.0 μA/cm 2 at 233 K, which has better uniformity compared to those of MBE sample, and responsivity of 0.8 A/W in SWIR region were obtained. This result indicates that planer photodiode using MOVPE grown InGaAs/GaAsSb type II quantum wells is a promising candidate for consumer applications.
Accuracy of automated community pharmacy–based blood pressure devices

Abstract Objectives To estimate accuracy and reliability of pharmacy-based fixed-location automated blood pressure devices (ABPDs) and to test the hypothesis that an ABPD is less accurate with more variable results than a home blood pressure device (HBPD). Methods Randomized study comparing 99 ABPDs with an Omron Digital HBPD in Indiana pharmacies. Each site was visited by one of five study investigators. A questionnaire was used to collect information about ABPDs. To test the ABPD against the HBPD, investigators measured their own blood pressure with each device three times in random order. Results No significant differences were observed between HBPD and ABPD diastolic readings, whereas a statistically significant difference between HBPD and ABPD systolic readings was found. ABPD measurements are as reliable as HBPD measurements when comparing single measurements from each, but reliability differs with more than one reading. Conclusion Compared with a valid HBPD, the ABPD produces inaccurate systolic blood pressure values but similar reliability. Regular blood pressure measurement by health professionals remains optimal for managing hypertensive individuals.
Artificial liver support: state of the art

Severe liver disease is very often life-threatening and dramatically diminishes quality of life. Liver support systems based on detoxification alone have proven ineffective because they cannot correct biochemical disorders. An effective artificial liver support system should be capable of carrying out the liver's essential processes such as synthetic and metabolic functions, detoxification, and excretion. It should be capable of sustaining patients with fulminant hepatic failure, preparing patients for liver transplantation when a donor liver is not readily available (i.e., bridge to transplantation), and improving the survival and quality of life for patients for whom transplantation is not a therapeutic option. Recent advances in cell biology, tissue culture techniques, and biotechnology have led the way for the potential use of isolated hepatocytes in treating an array of liver disorders. Isolated hepatocytes may be transplanted to replace liver-specific deficiencies or as an important element of an auxiliary hybrid, bioartificial extracorporeal liver support device, which are important therapeutic applications for treating severe liver disease. Although several hepatocyte-based liver support systems have been proposed, there is no current consensus on its eventual design configuration. Furthermore, application of tissue engineering technology, based on cell-surface interaction studies proposed by our group and others, has enhanced interest in the development of highly efficient hybrid, bioartificial, liver support devices.
Age‐related intrinsic changes in human bone‐marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells and their differentiation to osteoblasts

Summary In vivo and in vitro studies indicate that a subpopulation of human marrow-derived stromal cells (MSCs, also known as mesenchymal stem cells) has potential to differentiate into multiple cell types, including osteoblasts. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that there are intrinsic effects of age in human MSCs (17–90 years). We tested the effect of age on senescence-associated β-galactosidase, proliferation, apoptosis, p53 pathway genes, and osteoblast differentiation in confluent monolayers by alkaline phosphatase activity and osteoblast gene expression analysis. There were fourfold more human bone MSCs (hMSCs) positive for senescence-associated β-galactosidase in samples from older than younger subjects (P < 0.001; n = 17). Doubling time of hMSCs was 1.7-fold longer in cells from the older than the younger subjects, and was positively correlated with age (P = 0.002; n = 19). Novel age-related changes were identified. With age, more cells were apoptotic (P = 0.016; n = 10). Further, there were age-related increases in expression of p53 and its pathway genes, p21 and BAX. Consistent with other experiments, there was a significant age-related decrease in generation of osteoblasts both in the STRO-1+ cells (P = 0.047; n = 8) and in adherent MSCs (P < 0.001; n = 10). In sum, there is an age-dependent decrease in proliferation and osteoblast differentiation, and an increase in senescence-associated β-galactosidase-positive cells and apoptosis in hMSCs. Up-regulation of the p53 pathway with age may have a critical role in mediating the reduction in both proliferation and osteoblastogenesis of hMSCs. These findings support the view that there are intrinsic alterations in human MSCs with aging that may contribute to the process of skeletal aging in humans.
Conversion of bovine growth hormone cysteine residues to serine affects secretion by cultured cells and growth rates in transgenic mice.

GHs have been found to possess two disulfide bonds. We set out to determine the importance of bovine (b) GH's disulfide bonds relative to the ability of the hormone to be secreted by cultured cells in vitro and to promote growth in transgenic mice. We have generated six mutated bGH genes that encode serine (Ser) substitutions for cysteines (Cys). These mutated genes were used to generate bGH analogs in which either one or both disulfide bonds are destroyed. When the small loop of bGH was destroyed (Cys181-Ser or Cys189-Ser), the bGH analogs were found to be secreted by mouse L-cells at levels comparable to those of wild-type bGH. However, secretion was drastically reduced when the large loop was abolished (Cys53-Ser or Cys164-Ser). An immunofluorescence study of these bGH analogs revealed two distinct patterns of subcellular localization. Bovine GH analogs with mutations in the small loop demonstrated a perinuclear distribution similar to that of wild-type bGH, but analogs containing a disrupted large loo...
Statistical Sources in Business and Economics

“Where do I find the Consumer Price Index?” “What was last year's unemployment rate?” “How do I locate data on the number of 1979 cars sold?” The above questions are among a multitude that a reference librarian might be asked concerning business statistics. To find the answers to these questions, the librarian may use a variety of sources.
A comparison of localization effects in one-dimensional disordered photonic bandgap structures

This paper presents a comparison of one-dimensional optical localization effects for both a disordered quarter-wave stack and disordered non-quarter-wave stack. Optical localization in these one-dimensional photonic bandgap structures is studied using the transfer matrix formalism, where each matrix is a function of one or more random variables. As the random matrix product model tends to infinity, Furstenberg's theorem on products of random matrices tells us that the upper (and positive) Lyapunov exponent exists and is deterministic. This Lyapunov exponent is clearly identified as the localization factor (inverse localization length) for the disordered photonic bandgap structure. The Lyapunov exponent can be calculated via the Wolf algorithm which tracks the growth of a vector propagated by the long chain of random matrices. Numerical results of the localization factor are provided using the Wolf algorithm. In the randomized models, layer thicknesses are randomized, being drawn from both a uniform probability density function and a binary probability mass function. Significant notches are noted for a number of the results. The Lyapunov exponent can also be found from Furstenberg's integral formula, which involves integration with respect to the probability distribution of the elements of the random matrices, and the so-called invariant probability measure of the direction of the vector propagated by the long chain of random matrices. This invariant measure can be determined numerically from a bin counting technique similar to the Wolf algorithm. Invariant measure plots based on the bin counting method are shown at selected frequencies.
Upstream stimulatory factor, a basic-helix-loop-helix-zipper protein, regulates the activity of the alpha-glycoprotein hormone subunit gene in pituitary cells.

In an effort to determine whether basic-helix-loop-helix (bHLH) proteins are important in pituitary-specific expression of the alpha-glycoprotein hormone subunit gene, we examined the effect of the dominant negative HLH protein, Id, on the activity of the alpha-subunit gene promoter in pituitary cells. Id over-expression reduces the expression of alpha-subunit reporter genes in either alpha T3-1 gonadotrope-derived or alpha TSH thyrotrope-derived cells. A deletion fragment containing nucleotides from -131 to +44 of the human alpha-subunit promoter is inhibited to a similar degree as a -244 to +44 fragment in alpha T3-1 cells. Nuclear proteins in alpha T3-1 cells bind two potential bHLH protein binding sites (E-boxes, alpha EB1 and alpha EB2) present in this fragment but not to mutations that specifically alter only these sequences. An antibody-specific for upstream stimulatory factor, a widely expressed bHLH-leucine zipper protein, is able to inhibit factor binding to the alpha EB2 sequences but not the a...
A 1-D elastic-plastic sea-ice model solved with an implicit Eulerian-Lagrangian method

Abstract A physical model for an elastic–plastic rheology is developed and implemented in a numerical sea-ice model. The rheology describes sea ice as behaving as an elastic material for relatively small deformations and as a plastic material for larger ones. The model equations are solved using an Eulerian–Lagrangian method in which the displacement of granular aggregates from an original Eulerian grid is computed in a Lagrangian sense and the resulting mass distribution is mapped back onto the Eulerian grid. The equations are integrated in time using Krylov solvers in a fully-implicit framework. The model distinguishes itself from previous sea-ice models in a combination of attributes: the absence of a viscous dependence within the rheology, the employment of an Eulerian–Lagrangian grid, and in the use of a fully-implicit time-stepping scheme that allows for a large time-step. Model results and efficiency are presented from a one-dimensional simulation; plans for extension of the physics and numerics to two-dimensions are outlined.
Model of a novel pressurized solid oxide fuel cell gas turbine hybrid engine

Solid oxide fuel cell gas turbine (SOFC-GT) hybrid systems for producing electricity have received much attention due to high-predicted efficiencies, low pollution and availability of natural gas. Due to the higher value of peak power, a system able to meet fluctuating power demands while retaining high efficiencies is strongly preferable to base load operation. SOFC systems and hybrid variants designed to date have had narrow operating ranges due largely to the necessity of heat management within the fuel cell. Such systems have a single degree of freedom controlled and limited by the fuel cell. This study will introduce a new SOFC-GT hybrid configuration designed to operate over a 5:1 turndown ratio, while maintaining the SOFC stack exit temperature at a constant 1000 °C. The proposed system introduces two new degrees of freedom through the use of a variable-geometry nozzle turbine to directly influence system airflow, and an auxiliary combustor to control the thermal and power needs of the turbomachinery.
Groundwater response to snowmelt in a mountainous watershed: testing of a conceptual model

Abstract Snowmelt recharge to shallow (less than 25 m) groundwater systems is the primary source of streamflow in many mountainous watersheds, but characteristics of these systems are not well understood. Response time between snowmelt, piezometers and streamflow in the Upper Sheep Creek Watershed within the Reynolds Creek Experimental Watershed differs drastically from year to year depending on the extent of recharge from snowmelt. This is believed to be caused by groundwater flow becoming confined during years with normal or above normal snowmelt recharge. A two-dimensional, variably saturated, groundwater model was applied to 3 years of data to validate the computer model and to test the conceptual model of the basin. Groundwater response measured in piezometers was simulated quite accurately when a confining layer (observed in drilling logs) was included, but not when the confining layer was omitted. Simulation results give credence to the variably saturated groundwater model, support the conceptual model of the basin, and improve our understanding of the shallow groundwater system in this mountainous watershed.
Patient complexity: more than comorbidity. the vector model of complexity.

BACKGROUND The conceptualization of patient complexity is just beginning in clinical medicine.
An analysis of the in-plane acceleration sensitivity of ST cut quartz surface wave resonators with interior rectangular supports

The in-plane acceleration sensitivity of ST-cut quartz surface-wave resonators with the substrate extending beyond interior rectangular supports is analyzed. In the treatment the variational principle with all conditions appearing as natural conditions is extended in such a way as to permit interior surfaces of discontinuity with spring supports at which the approximating solution functions need not satisfy the constraint-type conditions. The resulting extensional biasing state is used in the existing perturbation integral along with the proper continuous representation of the acoustic surface wave mode shape to calculate the in-plane acceleration sensitivity for this support configuration. Results are presented as a function of planar aspect ratio for a number of overhand configurations. >
The Self-Fulfillment of the Self-Fulfilling Prophecy:

Few ideas have influenced educational research and practice as much as the notion of the self-fulfilling prophecy. Yet despite the impact of the "educational self-fulfilling prophecy," the empirical status of the construct, as applied to the effect of teacher expectations on student IQ, remains equivocal. Lack of evidence was apparent even in the now-classic "Pygmalion Study" (Rosenthal & Jacobson, 1968), which claimed to show that teachers" expectations affect student intelligence. Despite criticism of the study and failure to replicate the effect in different settings, Pygmalion became one of the most cited studies in education. What made the educational self-fulfilling prophecy so durable when many other ideas in education have a fleeting half-life? How was research that was much contested in scholarly circles used by the courts and portrayed in the media? This paper examines these questions.
Utilidad de la broncoscopia flexible en la evaluación de infiltrados pulmonares en la población con trasplante de células madre hemopoyéticas: experiencia de 14años en un solo centro

Resumen Introduccion Los infiltrados pulmonares son frecuentes en la poblacion con trasplante de celulas madre hemopoyeticas (TCMH) y, lamentablemente, comportan un aumento de la mortalidad. La broncoscopia se emplea con frecuencia como metodo diagnostico inicial, pero la literatura que respalda su utilidad diagnostica y su efecto sobre el tratamiento clinico presenta discrepancias significativas. El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar la capacidad diagnostica de la broncoscopia flexible (BF) en la evaluacion de los infiltrados pulmonares en una poblacion amplia de pacientes con TCMH. Pacientes y metodos Revision retrospectiva de todos los pacientes a los que se practico una BF despues de un TCMH en la unidad de trasplantes de medula osea entre 1996 y 2009. Resultados Se llevo a cabo una BF en 162 ocasiones en 144 pacientes con infiltrados pulmonares y se obtuvieron resultados positivos en el 52,5% de los casos. Los resultados positivos mas frecuentes fueron la neumonia bacteriana (31%), la neumonia fungica (15%) y la hemorragia alveolar (11%). Tras la BF se introdujeron modificaciones en el tratamiento del 44% de los pacientes. Los cambios del tratamiento consistieron en una modificacion de la medicacion antibiotica (59%), adicion de corticosteroides (21%), modificacion de la medicacion antifungica (12%) y modificacion de la medicacion antiviral (7%). La tasa global de complicaciones asociadas a la BF fue del 30%, si bien el 84% de estas complicaciones se consideraron de caracter menor. Conclusiones La BF en los pacientes que presentan infiltrados pulmonares despues de un TCMH debe continuar considerandose un instrumento util en la evaluacion y el tratamiento de los infiltrados pulmonares en la poblacion tratada con TCMH. Seran necesarios nuevos estudios prospectivos, multicentricos y aleatorizados para evaluar las repercusiones clinicas globales que tienen los resultados de la broncoscopia y las modificaciones del tratamiento en esta poblacion especifica.
Towards an information theoretic framework for object recognition

We propose a model for rate-constrained pattern recognition problems, and present single-letter information bounds governing the conditions under which asymptotically error-free recognition is possible. The bounds depend on the statistics of the training and testing data, the number of pattern classes, and the rates of the codes used by the recognition system to internalize the data.
A quantitatively‐based methodology for the evaluation of chemical hormesis

Abstract The recent creation of a chemical hormesis database revealed approximately 350 studies qualitatively judged to show high, moderate, or low evidence of hormesis. A quantitative methodology was subsequently developed to more rigorously evaluate an experiment's capacity to demonstrate hormesis. Criteria were established and assigned point values based on: 1) the number of experimental doses below the high NOEL (i.e., within the hormetic zone); 2) experimental determination or estimation of the high NOEL; 3) the statistical significance of the stimulatory response; 4) the magnitude (percentage of control value) of the stimulatory response; and 5) the reproducibility of data by other studies. Evidence of hormesis was assessed by comparing the summation of point values to point ranges established for six evidence categories: high, moderate‐high, moderate, low‐moderate, low, and no‐low. Due to the emphasis on rigorous study design and statistical analysis criteria, 53% of the experiments received total ...
A Nonlinear Viscoelastic Model for Describing the Deformation Behavior of Braided Fiber Seals

A nonlinear viscoelastic model has been proposed to describe the time-dependent deformation behavior of a fiber assembly including braided fiber seals. The model is based on the standard solid model, but modified to contain three nonlinear spring and damper elements. For a fiber assembly under a compressive load, the deformation status can be characterized by the fiber volume fraction Vf. The elastic spring and viscous damper elements in the proposed model are assumed to be nonlinear functions of Vf. General deformation solutions in the cases of creep and stress relaxation are obtained, as are nonlinear functional forms of the spring and damper elements versus V f through a series of stress relaxation experiments on the fiber seals. The results are then used to analyze the deformation behavior of the fiber seals in the case of creep, and in other cases with ramp pressure or ramp displacement conditions.
On nudging and informed consent--four key undefended premises.

In his article “Nudging and Informed Consent,” Shlomo Cohen (2013) argues, among other things, that 1) “to the extent that the nudge-influenced decision making is rational—in whatever sense,” there...
Density functional theory for chemical engineering: From capillarity to soft materials

Understanding the microscopic structure and macroscopic properties of condensed matter from a molecular perspective is important for both traditional and modern chemical engineering. A cornerstone of such understanding is provided by statistical mechanics, which bridges the gap between molecular events and the structural and physiochemical properties of macro- and mesoscopic systems. With ever-increasing computer power, molecular simulations and ab initio quantum mechanics are promising to provide a nearly exact route to accomplishing the full potential of statistical mechanics. However, in light of their versatility for solving problems involving multiple length and timescales that are yet unreachable by direct simulations, phenomenological and semiempirical methods remain relevant for chemical engineering applications in the foreseeable future. Classical density functional theory offers a compromise: on the one hand, it is able to retain the theoretical rigor of statistical mechanics and, on the other hand, similar to a phenomenological method, it demands only modest computational cost for modeling the properties of uniform and inhomogeneous systems. Recent advances are summarized of classical density functional theory with emphasis on applications to quantitative modeling of the phase and interfacial behavior of condensed fluids and soft materials, including colloids, polymer solutions, nanocomposites, liquid crystals, and biological systems. Attention is also given to some potential applications of density functional theory to material fabrications and biomolecular engineering. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2006
Photosynthetic characteristics of dwarf and fringe Rhizophora mangle L. in a Belizean mangrove

Twin Cays (Belize) is a highly oligotrophic mangrove archipelago dominated by Rhizophora mangle L. Ocean-fringing trees are 3-7 m tall with a leaf area index (LAI) of 2.3, whereas in the interior, dwarf zone, trees are 1.5 m or less, and the LAI is 0.7. P-fertilization of dwarf trees dramatically increases growth. As a partial explanation of these characteristics, it was hypothesized that differences in stature and growth rates would reflect differences in leaf photosynthetic capacity, as determined by the photochemical and biochemical characteristics at the chloroplast level. Gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence were used to compare photosynthesis of dwarf, fringe and fertilized trees. Regardless of zonation or treatment, net CO2 exchange (A) and photosynthetic electron transport were light saturated at less than 500 mumol photons m(-2) s(-1), and low-light quantum efficiencies were typical for healthy C-3 plants. On the other hand, light-saturated A was linearly related to stomatal conductance g(s). with seasonal, zonal and treatment differences in photosynthesis corresponding linearly to differences in the mean gs. Overall, photosynthetic capacity appeared to be co-regulated with stomatal conductance, minimizing the variability of C-i at ambient CO2 (and hence, C-i/C-a). Based on the results of in vitro assays, regulation of photosynthesis in R. mangle appeared to be accomplished, at least in part, by regulation of Rubisco activity.
Absolute pitch and planum temporale

An increased leftward asymmetry of the planum temporale (PT) in absolute-pitch (AP) musicians has been previously reported, with speculation that early exposure to music influences the degree of PT asymmetry. To test this hypothesis and to determine whether a larger left PT or a smaller right PT actually accounts for the increased overall PT asymmetry in AP musicians, anatomical magnetic resonance images were taken from a right-handed group of 27 AP musicians, 27 nonmusicians, and 22 non-AP musicians. A significantly greater leftward PT asymmetry and a significantly smaller right absolute PT size for the AP musicians compared to the two control groups was found, while the left PT was only marginally larger in the AP group. The absolute size of the right PT and not the left PT was a better predictor of music group membership, possibly indicating “pruning” of the right PT rather than expansion of the left underlying the increased PT asymmetry in AP musicians. Although early exposure to music may be a prerequisite for acquiring AP, the increased PT asymmetry in AP musicians may be determined in utero, implicating possible genetic influences on PT asymmetry. This may explain why the increased PT asymmetry of AP musicians was not seen in the group of early beginning non-AP musicians. © 2001 Academic Press
Advancing videometry through applications: quantification of neonatal seizures from video recordings

This paper presents some recent advances in videometry that resulted from the development of video processing and analysis procedures designed to facilitate the quantification of neonatal seizures. This paper presents two automated procedures developed to extract temporal information from video recordings of neonatal seizures in the form of temporal motion strength and motor activity signals. These signals constitute an effective representation of videotaped clinical events and can be used in the development of an intelligent system for seizure recognition and characterization.
Microstructural Studies of IAD and PVD Cr Coatings by Cross Section Transmission Electron Microscopy

Cross section transmission electron microscopy was used to study the microstructure and interface structure of Cr films deposited by ion-assisted deposition as a function of the incident ion energy. High-energy ion bombardment (1 keV) was found to enhance the adhesion of the deposited film owing to the formation of an intermixed layer, whereas deposition with lowenergy ions (100 eV) was found to reduce or eliminate grain boundary porosity. A tailored Cr film with excellent adhesion and no grain boundary porosity was deposited by combining highand low-energy ion bombardment.
A `Show' of Agency is Enough:

Descartes and Cartesians such as Harwood Fisher (1995) claim that human agency is only known to us as such intellectually, through supposed linguistically indifferent concepts or ideas of agency ce...
Analysis of multipath Routing-Part I: the effect on the packet delivery ratio

In this paper, we develop an analytical framework for evaluating multipath routing in mobile ad hoc networks. The instability of the topology (e.g., failure of links) in this type of network due to nodal mobility and changes in wireless propagation conditions makes transmission of time-sensitive information a challenging problem. To combat the inherent unreliability of these networks, we propose a routing scheme that uses multiple paths simultaneously by splitting the information between a multitude of paths, so as to increase the probability that the essential portion of the information is received at the destination without incurring excessive delay. Our scheme works by adding an overhead to each packet, which is calculated as a linear function of the original packet bits. The resulting packet (information and overhead) is fragmented into smaller blocks and distributed over the available paths. The probability of reconstructing the original information at the destination is derived in an analytical form and its behavior is studied for some special cases. It is shown that, under certain constraints, the packet dropping probability decreases as the number of used paths is increased.
Stress Mapping Near Simulated Defects in Thin Film Wiring Using X-ray Microbeam Diffraction

The stress distribution about a series of deliberately fabricated defects in a Cu/Ni/Au/Cr redundant metal stack deposited on a Cr/Cu/Cr serpentine has been studied via x-ray microbeam diffraction using the sin2 ψ, technique. Strong directional anisotropies in the stress were found for both the second level nickel and copper. The extent of nickel stress relaxation from the edge of a defect far exceeded that predicted by a simple metal on substrate model. The size of the defect did not appear to significantly influence the stress distribution in the second level metal; however, the data suggest that the linewidth may influence the magnitude of the stress along the length of a line when near a defect or other sharp discontinuity.
A Phased Approach to Increase Airport Capacity through Safe Reduction of Existing Wake Turbulence Constraints

This paper outlines the operational issues involved in using knowledge of wake turbulence behavior to develop candidate terminal approach procedures that would increase arrival capacity at a variety of United States airports. Later procedures build incrementally on the experience that would be gained with these initial procedures. The process by which the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and The MITRE Corporation’s Center for Advanced Aviation System Development (MITRE/CAASD) have been analyzing these candidate procedures will be discussed. This process is part of the broader effort to implement an FAA/National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Wake Turbulence Research Management Plan (RMP). Two candidate procedures, and their operational variations, are described in detail, along with expected capacity benefits at selected airports. The analysis methodology is described. The first procedure is a near-term proposed change to the 2500 foot separation minimum for dependent approaches to two parallel runways. The second procedure is a mid-term proposed change to reduce wake constraints for departures from parallel runways spaced closer than 2500 feet using a shor t-term prognosis of crosswinds at and near the area of aircraft rotation. Activities, such as additional wake data collection at a field site, that are planned during the current year to advance towards the specific design and implementation of the procedures are also briefly outlined.
Dynamic analysis of loads and stresses in connecting rods

AbstractAutomobile internal combustion engine connecting rod is a high volume production component subjected to complex loading. Proper optimization of this component, which is critical to the engine fuel efficiency and more vigorously pursued by the automotive industry in recent years, necessitates a detailed understanding of the applied loads and resulting stresses under in-service conditions. In this study, detailed load analysis under service loading conditions was performed for a typical connecting rod, followed by quasi-dynamic finite element analysis (FEA) to capture stress variations over a cycle of operation. On the basis of the resulting stress-time histories, variation of stress ratio, presence of mean and bending stresses, and multi-axiality of stress states in various locations of the connecting rod under service operating conditions were investigated. It was found that even though connecting rods are typically tested and analyzed under axial loading and stress state, bending stresses are sig...
Effect of wind-generated bubbles on OFDM power loading for time-varying shallow water acoustic channels with limited feedback

Wind blowing over the sea surface generates many dramatic effects. One of the most important effects is bubbles generated by breaking waves, which has major effects on high frequency acoustic propagation, sound speed profile and ambient noise due to the sound scattering and absorption properties of a thin layer of bubbles. In this paper, on one hand, we analyze several important properties of bubbles and their effects on acoustic propagation and sound speed profile; on the other hand, we propose an optimization model aiming at maximizing system capacity with the constraint of the total transmission power in a symbol. It is achieved by adopting the Lloyd algorithm based limited feedback procedure. Simulation results reveal underwater acoustic (UWA) channel impulse responses both with and without the effect of bubbles, and the limited feedback based system capacities comparison in terms of obtained channel impulse responses will be demonstrated.
The Neighborhood Library as an Information and Referral Center

Most neighborhoods have an informal network that transmits information within the neighborhood. The traditional network consists of the people in the neighborhood: (1) the residents themselves; (2) those—such as the druggist, the apartment house superintendent, the retail store proprietor, or the locally elected government official—whose neighborhood roles bring them into frequent contact with many of the residents; and (3) local institutions such as the settlement house, the church, and the school, whose primary activities are neighborhood oriented.
Function of the nucleus accumbens within the context of the larger striatal system

There is accumulating evidence that the nucleus accumbens plays an important role in spatial navigation, and it has been suggested that the accumbens functions to integrate spatial and reward information to affect behavioral performance (e.g., Lavoie & Mizumori, 1994). Here, a hypothesis is proposed that more specifically takes into consideration the nature of the contribution of the accumbens. Specifically, it is argued that the accumbens operates in conjunction with the caudate-putamen to provide organisms with a response reference system whereby the success of current behavioral strategies can be evaluated. The accumbens is postulated to carry out this function with respect to current changes in the sensory (spatial) environment, whereas the caudate-putamen evaluates the effectiveness of current responses, relative to response efficacy predicted by past experience. The striatum as a whole, then, endows the navigation system with a response-based mechanism by which memory representations and current environmental information (from the neocortex) can guide future spatial behaviors.
Stable Nitrogen Isotopes of Plankton and Benthos Reflect a Landscape-level Influence on Great Lakes Coastal Ecosystems

ABSTRACT As populations and human activities increase in coastal watersheds, an understanding of the connections of aquatic ecosystems to the adjacent terrestrial landscape is necessary to identify, monitor, and protect vulnerable coastal habitats. This study investigates the relationships between land-use patterns and δ15N values of aquatic organisms in coastal ecosystems, across a defined watershed gradient for the U.S. portion of the Great Lakes shoreline. δ15N measured in plankton and benthic invertebrates reflects a range of basin wide land-use gradients and demonstrates a strong connection between watershed-based anthropogenic activities and exposure in aquatic biota. For example, benthos δ15N values range over 12‰ across sites in our study, but regression analyses suggest that over 50% of the variability is explained by the regional landscape. Further, multiple taxa at comparable trophic position showed similar patterns in relation to watershed-scale land use. Our results suggest that within the co...
Dyspnoea as a predictor of cause-specific heart/lung disease mortality in Bangladesh: a prospective cohort study

Background The spectrum of mortality outcomes by cause in populations with/without dyspnoea has not been determined. The study aimed to evaluate whether dyspnoea, a symptom, predicts cause-specific mortality differences between groups. The hypothesis was that diseases that result in chronic dyspnoea, those originating from the heart and lungs, would preferentially result in heart and lung disease mortality in those with baseline dyspnoea (relative to no dyspnoea) when followed over time. Methods A population-based sample of 11 533 Bangladeshis was recruited and followed for 11–12 years and cause-specific mortality evaluated in those with and without baseline dyspnoea. Dyspnoea was ascertained by trained physicians. The cause of death was determined by verbal autopsy. Kaplan-Meier survival curves, the Fine-Gray competing risk hazards model and logistic regression models were used to determine group differences in cause-specific mortality. Results Compared to those not reporting dyspnoea at baseline, the adjusted HRs were 6.4 (3.8 to 10.7), 9.3 (3.9 to 22.3), 1.8 (1.2 to 2.8), 2.2 (1.0 to 5.1) and 2.8 (1.3 to 6.2) for greater risk of dying from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, heart disease, tuberculosis and lung cancer, respectively. In contrast, there was a similar risk of dying from stroke, cancer (excluding lung), liver disease, accidents and other (miscellaneous causes) between the dyspnoeic and non-dyspnoeic groups. In addition, the HR was 2.1 (1.7 to 2.5) for greater all-cause mortality in those with baseline dyspnoea versus no dyspnoea. Conclusions Dyspnoea, ascertained by a single question with binary response, predicts heart and lung disease mortality. Individuals reporting dyspnoea were twofold to ninefold more likely to die of diseases that involve the heart and/or lungs relative to the non-dyspnoeic individuals. Therefore, in those with chronic dyspnoea, workup to look for the five common dyspnoeic diseases resulting in increased mortality (COPD, asthma, heart disease, tuberculosis and lung cancer), all treatable, should reduce mortality and improve the public health.
Abstract 3637: Repressive histone marks in breast cancer in relation to molecular phenotype: results from the Nurses’ Health Study.

Repressive histone tail modifications have been previously characterized in breast cancer, but the relationship between these marks, tumor features and breast cancer molecular subtypes has not been studied in depth. We have tissue microarray data with marker information on 971 incident breast cancers that developed from 1976-2000 in women enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Study. Tissue microarray sections were stained for repressive H3K9 trimethylation (H3K9me3) and H3K27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) marks, and tumors with 50% or more positively stained cells were scored as histone mark positive. We found that 73.3% of tumors were H3K9me3 positive, and 84.9% of tumors were H3K27me3 positive. The relationships between histone marks and tumor features (tumor size, grade, stage, nodal involvement and hormone receptor status) were analyzed. While we found no association between H3K9me3 and tumor features, age-adjusted analyses suggested that H3K27me3 was associated with lower grade tumors (OR=5.51, 95% CI 2.64-11.50), p Citation Format: Megan A. Healey, Andrew H. Beck, Stuart J. Schnitt, Rulla M. Tamimi, Aditi Hazra. Repressive histone marks in breast cancer in relation to molecular phenotype: results from the Nurses’ Health Study. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3637. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-3637