cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of caffeine-induced arrhythmias in canine cardiac purkinje fibers

The effects of caffeine were studied in canine cardiac Purkinje fibers perfused in vitro. The study revealed that (1) caffeine induces an oscillatory potential (Vos) superimposed on early diastolic depolarization in driven fibers; (2) Vos magnitude increases (within limits) with the concentration of caffeine (0.5 to 3 mM) and as a function of time of exposure; (3) if the drive is interrupted, Vos may attain the threshold and initiate spontaneous repetitive activity; (4) caffeine increases the rate of discharge in spontaneously active fibers, also through a Vos; (5) Vos shows the same characteristics as under other conditions of calcium overload; that is, it disappears after a long pause, increases after a shorter pause, can be suppressed by overdrive and can initiate spontaneous discharge at normal or depolarized levels; (7) Vos is dependent on cellular calcium as it appears at lower caffeine concentrations in fibers that are loaded with calcium by increasing extracellular calcium concentration [Ca]o, by decreasing extracellular sodium concentration [Na]o or by administering strophanthidin; (8) caffeine-induced Vos is made to peak sooner and to initiate fast spontaneous rhythms by norepinephrine; (9) Vos is reduced by low [Ca]o but not by propranolol. It is concluded that caffeine causes an oscillatory potential that is modulated by cellular calcium, and this Vos can induce arrhythmias.
Central hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma of the mandible and the maxilla a clinicopathologic study of two cases with an analysis of the literature

We describe two cases of primary intraosseous hyalinizing clear cell carcinomas of the jaws. One tumor arose in the mandible, the other in the maxilla. Both patients were adult women. Histologically, both tumors were characterized by a population of clear, glycogen-rich cells arranged in solid nests, trabeculae, and occasional single files, surrounded by a markedly hyalinized fibrous stroma. In close admixture with the clear cells, a second component of smaller cells having eosinophilic cytoplasms was also noted. Focal areas of squamous metaplasia were seen in one of the tumors. Neither nuclear pleomorphism nor mitotic activity were conspicuous features. Mucicarmine stains were negative in both tumors. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells expressed cytokeratins and epithelial membrane antigen. Stains for S100 protein, smooth muscle specific actin, and carcinoembryonic antigen were all negative. Both patients are alive and well 14 and 17 months respectively after the diagnosis without evidence of metastasis or recurrence. The major importance of recognizing the existence of this rare form of salivary gland-type adenocarcinoma arising as a primary lesion in the mandible or the maxilla lies in avoiding misdiagnosing it as other primary or metastatic clear cell neoplasms, including various odontogenic clear cell tumors, other primary intraosseous salivary gland tumors, and metastatic clear cell adenocarcinomas from other organs, particularly the kidney.
The Effect of the New Triazole, Voriconazole (UK-109,496), on the Interactions of Candida albicans and Candida krusei with Endothelial Cells

In this study, we investigated how voriconazole affects specific endothelial cell interactions utilizing both fluconazole-susceptibles and resistantR Candida albicans strains (C. albicansS and C. albicansR, respectively) as well as Candida krusei. Our data show that exposing C. albicansS to voriconazole significantly reduced its adherence to endothelial cells (p <0.001). The adherence of C. albicansR to endothelial cells was not affected by treatment with either antifungal agent. Exposure of C. albicans to both agents inhibited germ tube formation; however, voriconazole showed higher ability in inhibiting germination as compared with fluconazole. The effect of antifungals on germination was also tested during co-incubation of yeast cells with endothelial cells. Pretreated C. albicansS cells germinated on endothelial cells in the presence of voriconazole or fluconazole. However, the degree of germination was reduced by 81% and 16%, respectively. Similar results were observed with C. albicansR. Our data demonstrate that voriconazole treatment reduced the median germ tube length of C. albicansS and C. albicansR by approximately 60%, whereas fluconazole reduced the germ tube length of these strains by 27% and 63%, respectively (P < 0.0001 for each comparison). We compared the efficacy of voriconazole and fluconazole in protecting endothelial cells against damage caused by C. albicansS, C. albicansR, and C. krusei. Voriconazole and fluconazole reduced C. albicans-mediated endothelial cell injury by about 90% and 40%, respectively (P < 0.01 for each comparison). Additionally, voriconazole treatment significantly reduced C. krusei-mediated injury to endothelial cells by 69% (P < 0.01), whereas fluconazole did not exhibit significant protection (P < 0.6). These results demonstrate that voriconazole, in addition to its direct inhibitory activity against fungi, may act against Candida spp. by interfering with critical host/parasite interactions, such as adherence and endothelial cell damage, as well as germination. Therefore, this triazole represents a new and promising agent for the treatment of disseminated candidal infections caused by both fluconazole-susceptible and -resistant species.
Correlates of tax evasion

Abstract Tax evasion has increased in the United States. Estimates of evasion indicate that the amount of federal income taxes evaded equals the federal deficit. Thus, controlling tax evasion should be a major concern of future tax policy decisions. This study analyzes the effects of 18 variables that might affect tax evasion. Specifically, the variables were used as independent variables in discriminant analyses to determine their relationship to tax evasion. The results indicated that the variables affect different types of tax evasion differently, and that all variables do not significantly influence tax evasion. Policy implications are presented based on these results.
Comparing Teacher-Directed and Computer-Assisted Instruction of Elementary Geographic Place Vocabulary

Abstract Increased knowledge of geographic place name vocabulary continues to be important to student academic success. Place knowledge is a vital part of students' learning to be responsible citizens by helping them become more conscious of the world around them and preparing them to enter a global workplace. This study compares computer-assisted to teacher-directed instruction for teaching elementary geographic place name vocabulary. Direct instructional methods can improve student performance with clearly identified student objectives, structured content delivery, and monitoring of progress. Instruction provided via computers appears to be a more effective method than traditional direct instruction.
Coexisting Asymmetric and Symmetric Periodic Motions in the Mathieu-Duffing Oscillator

In this paper, periodic motions in the Mathieu-Duffing oscillator are analytically predicted through the harmonic balance method. The approximate, analytical solutions of periodic motions are achieved, and the corresponding stability analyses of the stable and unstable periodic solutions are completed. Numerical simulations are provided for a complete picture of coexisting periodic motions.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
A piston-driven shock in the solar corona

A solar flare that occurred on the west limb at 20:38 UT on Mar. 25, 1981 generated a massive, rapidly expanding optical coronal transient, which moved outward with an approximately constant velocity of 800 km/s. An associated magnetohydrodynamic shock traveled out ahead of the transient with a velocity estimated to be approximately 1000 km/s. The optical and radio data on the transient and shock fit well with general theories concerning piston-driven shocks and with current MHD models for propagation of such shocks through the solar corona.
DNA-Tethered Hoechst Groove-Binding Agents: Duplex Stabilization and Fluorescence Characteristics

Fluorescent Hoechst 33258 analogues have been synthesized in which the terminal phenol moiety is employed as a site for the introduction of a linker to permit covalent attachment of the fluorophores to oligo(deoxynucleotides). Hybridization by the DNA−Hoechst conjugates to target sequences generates the DNA minor groove structure and triggers a binding event by the tethered Hoechst agent. The attendant fluorescence signal reports upon this hybridization event. Conjugation of the Hoechst derivatives to the DNA sequences employs a cystamine linker tethered to an internucleotide phosphorus residue. This mode of conjugation maximizes the versatility of linker placement and minimizes the associated chemistry required to introduce the linker. Two related Hoechst derivatives have been synthesized; both contain a bromoacetamido linker for conjugation to the oligonucleotides. With each Hoechst derivative, two pairs of diastereomeric (Rp and Sp) oligo(deoxynucleotide) conjugates were prepared to provide the tethere...
Temperature dependence of the normal vibrational modes of hcp Zr

Inelastic-neutron-scattering techniques have been used to study the temperature dependence of the normal vibrational modes of hcp Zr. The phonon spectra along the (001), (100), and (110) symmetry directions were determined at 295, 773, and 1007 K. The (001) LO branch and a selected number of phonons of other branches were determined also at 5.5 K. As the temperature decreases we observe a rather large increase in the frequencies of all but the (001) LO branch. The zone-center mode of the (001) LO branch softens appreciably and at 5.5 K this branch exhibits a dip at the zone center reminiscent of the anomalous dispersion of the corresponding branch of technetium at room temperature. The data were used to evaluate the lattice specific heat at constant pressure as a function of temperature. The calculated total specific heat at constant pressure, obtained by taking into account the electronic contribution, was found to be consistent, to within experimental uncertainties, with the results of specific-heat measurements. We propose an explanation for the softening of the zone-center mode of the (001) LO branch and the large increase in the frequencies of the other modes with decreasing temperature which is based on the electronic structure ofmore » Zr.« less
Research and Empoldering of High Strength Weathering Steel S450EW

According to the characteristics of high strength weathering steel, this paper designs to develop anexperimental steel S450EW with yield strength higher than 450MPa.Through the study,it has been found that with decreasing cooling rate, the organizational changed largely, while ferrite and pearlite gradually transformed to martensite and a small amount of ferrite, then finally tomartensite organization.It has also been found that the crystal size decreased, and the experimentalsteel also precipitated a rectangular second phase particles of (NbTi) CN phase and TiC, which were sparsely distributed with the size of 100 ~ 300nm and below 30nm, while some phases were distributedasa number of strips in the grain boundary which mainly are C, Fe, Cr.
A computerized MRI biomarker quantification scheme for a canine model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Purpose Golden retriever muscular dystrophy (GRMD) is a widely used canine model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Recent studies have shown that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to non-invasively detect consistent changes in both DMD and GRMD. In this paper, we propose a semiautomated system to quantify MRI biomarkers of GRMD. Methods Our system was applied to a database of 45 MRI scans from 8 normal and 10 GRMD dogs in a longitudinal natural history study. We first segmented six proximal pelvic limb muscles using a semiautomated full muscle segmentation method. We then performed preprocessing, including intensity inhomogeneity correction, spatial registration of different image sequences, intensity calibration of T2-weighted and T2-weighted fat-suppressed images, and calculation of MRI biomarker maps. Finally, for each of the segmented muscles, we automatically measured MRI biomarkers of muscle volume, intensity statistics over MRI biomarker maps, and statistical image texture features. Results The muscle volume and the mean intensities in T2 value, fat, and water maps showed group differences between normal and GRMD dogs. For the statistical texture biomarkers, both the histogram and run-length matrix features showed obvious group differences between normal and GRMD dogs. The full muscle segmentation showed significantly less error and variability in the proposed biomarkers when compared to the standard, limited muscle range segmentation. Conclusion The experimental results demonstrated that this quantification tool could reliably quantify MRI biomarkers in GRMD dogs, suggesting that it would also be useful for quantifying disease progression and measuring therapeutic effect in DMD patients.
Velocity Control with Gravity Compensation for Magnetic Helical Microswimmers

Magnetic helical microswimmers, which swim using a method inspired by the propulsion of bacterial flagella, are promising for use as untethered micromanipulators and as medical microrobots. Man-made devices are typically heavier than their fluid environment and consequently sink due to their own weight. To date, methods to compensate for gravitational effects have been ad hoc. In this paper, we present an open-loop algorithm for velocity control with gravity compensation for magnetic helical microswimmers that enables a human operator or automated controller to command desired velocity intuitively, rather than directly controlling the microswimmer's orientation and rotation speed. We provide experimental verification of the method.
The Major Neutralizing Antibody Responses to Recombinant Anthrax Lethal and Edema Factors Are Directed to Non-Cross-Reactive Epitopes

Anthrax lethal and edema toxins (LeTx and EdTx, respectively) form by binding of lethal factor (LF) or edema factor (EF) to the pore-forming moiety protective antigen (PA). Immunity to LF and EF protects animals from anthrax spore challenge and neutralizes anthrax toxins. The goal of the present study is to identify linear B-cell epitopes of EF and to determine the relative contributions of cross-reactive antibodies of EF and LF to LeTx and EdTx neutralization. A/J mice were immunized with recombinant LF (rLF) or rEF. Pools of LF or EF immune sera were tested for reactivity to rLF or rEF by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, in vitro neutralization of LeTx and EdTx, and binding to solid-phase LF and EF decapeptides. Cross-reactive antibodies were isolated by column absorption of EF-binding antibodies from LF immune sera and by column absorption of LF-binding antibodies from EF immune sera. The resulting fractions were subjected to the same assays. Major cross-reactive epitopes were identified as EF amino acids (aa) 257 to 268 and LF aa 265 to 274. Whole LF and EF immune sera neutralized LeTx and EdTx, respectively. However, LF sera did not neutralize EdTx, nor did EF sera neutralize LeTx. Purified cross-reactive immunoglobulin G also failed to cross-neutralize. Cross-reactive B-cell epitopes in the PA-binding domains of whole rLF and rEF occur and have been identified; however, the major anthrax toxin-neutralizing humoral responses to these antigens are constituted by non-cross-reactive epitopes. This work increases understanding of the immunogenicity of EF and LF and offers perspective for the development of new strategies for vaccination against anthrax.
The Acute Effects of Long-wave Ultraviolet Radiation on Human Skin

The erythematogenic and melanogenic properties of polychromatic long-wave ultraviolet light (UV-A) has been re-examined. Redness appeared immediately after exposure and persisted for 24 hr with doses of about 50 Joules/cm2. With threshold erythemal doses, about 13 J/cm2, the redness faded after a few minutes. The response was not biphasic. Pigmentation also appeared immediately after exposure and faded rapidly with threshold doses of 4 J/cm2. With larger doses (18 J/cm2) immediate pigmentation gave way without fading to delayed pigmentation (true melanogenesis). Thus, the acute effects of UV-A, unlike other wavelengths within the UV-spectrum, are immediate and appear without latency. The responses are also most intense immediately after exposure.
Calcium ionophore (A23187) increases interleukin 1 (IL-1) production by human peripheral blood monocytes and interacts synergistically with IL-1 to augment Concanavalin A stimulated thymocyte proliferation

Abstract The effects of calcium ionophore, A23187, on production of interleukin 1 (IL-1) by human peripheral blood monocytes (PEMo) and on murine thymocyte proliferation were examined. A23187 induced IL-1 production by human PBMo. The optimal dose was 10 −6 M . Although IL-1 production induced by A23187 was less than that by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or silica, A23187 together with LPS had a synergistic effect on induction of IL-1. A23187 also had a more marked synergistic effect in concert with Concanavalin A and/or IL-1 on murine thymocyte proliferation. The optimal dose was also 10 −6 M . This represents the first report suggesting that monocytes or the monocyte product, IL-1, may contribute to the mitogenic effect of A23187 for thymocytes.
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS: APPLIED LINGUISTICS AT THE JUNCTURE OF MILLENNIA

I am personally delighted to have an opportunity to contribute ‘Concluding Thoughts’ to this volume, prepared as it is at the juncture of millennia, since it provides a similar opportunity for reflection and prediction, and since for one reason or another I have been an active participant in, and observer of, developments in the field of applied linguistics for more than three decades. Indeed my own career path reflects clearly the permeability of traditional departmental or disciplinary boundaries that has at once contributed to the sense of excitement and potential in the field and simultaneously to its lack of rootedness (e.g., I have at various times held academic appointments in departments of psychology, linguistics, and modern languages as well as worked for a private philanthropic foundation and a mission-oriented non-profit organization).
EFFECT OF POUNDING AND RESTRAINERS ON SEISMIC RESPONSE OF MULTIPLE-FRAME BRIDGES

Pounding between adjacent frames in a multiple-frame bridge produces undesirable forces resulting in large displacements, local damage, and possible failure of column bents. In this study, analytical models are used to examine the factors affecting the global response of a multiple-frame bridge due to pounding of adjacent frames. Parameter studies of one-sided and two-sided pounding are conducted to determine the effects of frame stiffness ratio, ground motion characteristics, frame yielding, and restrainers on the pounding response of bridge frames. It is determined that the most important parameters are the frame period ratio and the characteristic period of the ground motion. The amplification in the frame response due to one-sided pounding is most severe for cases with highly out-of-phase frames, in particular for short period structures. Two-sided pounding amplifies the stiff frame response, and reduces the flexible frame response. The addition of restrainers has a minor effect on the one-sided pounding response of highly out-of-phase frames. Current recommendations by Caltrans for limitations in frame period ratios to reduce the effects of pounding are evaluated through an example case.
The Effects of Text-Based and Graphics-Based Software Tools on Planning and Organizing of Stories

This article describes a research study comparing the effects of two computer-based writing tools on the story-writing skills of fourth-through eighth-grade students with language-related learning disabilities. The first tool, the prompted writing feature of FrEdWriter (Rogers, 1985), allowed students to answer story grammar questions, then type stories using those responses as the plan; the second tool, Once Upon a Time (Urban, Rushing, & Star, 1990), allowed students to create graphic scenes, then type stories about those scenes. Nine students attended a series of afterschool writing labs twice weekly for 11 weeks, using each tool for half of the writing sessions. Group results did not clearly favor either tool; however, individual differences suggested that use of planning features should be linked to student needs. Students who had less internal organizational ability benefited from the computer-presented story grammar prompts and wrote less mature stories when using the graphics-based tool. Students ...
College Student Responses to Web and Paper Surveys: Does Mode Matter?.

We examined the responses of 58,288 college students to 8 scales involving 53 items from the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) to gauge whether individuals respond differently to surveys administered via the Web and paper. Multivariate regression analyses indicated that mode effects were generally small. However, students who completed the Web-based survey responded more favorably than paper on all 8 scales. These patterns generally held for both women and men, and younger and older students. Interestingly, the largest effect was found for a scale of items involving computing and information technology.
Using Semiparametric Methods in an Analysis of Earnings Mobility

This paper describes a dynamic random effects econometric model from which inferences on earnings mobility may be made. It answers questions such as, given some initial level of observed earnings, what is the probability that an agent with certain characteristics will remain below a specified level of earnings (for example the poverty level) for a specified number of time periods? Existing research assumes that the distributions of the unobserved permanent and transitory shocks in the model are known up to finitely many parameters. However, predictions of earnings mobility are highly sensitive to assumptions about these distributions. The present paper estimates the distributions of the random effects on parametrically. The results are used to predict the probabilities of remaining in a low state of earnings. The results from the nonparametric distributions are contrasted to those obtained under a normality assumption. Using the nonparametrically estimated distributions gives estimated probabilities that are smaller than those obtained under the normality assumption. Through a Monte Carlo experiment and by examining unconditional predicted earnings distributions, it is demonstrated that the nonparametric method is likely to be considerably more accurate, and that assuming normality may give quite misleading results.
Canonical elastic moduli

Every linear planar anisotropic elastic material is equivalent, under a linear change of coordinates, to an orthotropic material. Consequently, up to linear changes of variables, there are just two “canonical” planar elastic moduli which determine the properties of any linearly elastic material. Extensions to three-dimensional elasticity and applications are indicated.
Differential Responses of Human Regulatory T Cells (Treg) and Effector T Cells to Rapamycin

Background: The immunosuppressive drug rapamycin (RAPA) promotes the expansion of CD4 + CD25 high Foxp3 + regulatory T cells via mechanisms that remain unknown. Here, we studied expansion, IL-2R-c chain signaling, survival pathways and resistance to apoptosis in human Treg responding to RAPA. Methodology/Principal Findings: CD4 + CD25 + and CD4 + CD25 neg T cells were isolated from PBMC of normal controls (n=21) using AutoMACS. These T cell subsets were cultured in the presence of anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies and 1000 IU/mL IL-2 for 3 to 6 weeks. RAPA (1–100 nM) was added to half of the cultures. After harvest, the cell phenotype, signaling via the PI3K/ mTOR and STAT pathways, expression of survival proteins and Annexin V binding were determined and compared to values obtained with freshly-separated CD4 + CD25 high and CD4 + CD25 neg T cells. Suppressor function was tested in co-cultures with autologous CFSE-labeled CD4 + CD25 neg or CD8 + CD25 neg T-cell responders. The frequency and suppressor activity of Treg were increased after culture of CD4 + CD25 + T cells in the presence of 1–100 nM RAPA (p,0.001). RAPA-expanded Treg were largely CD4 + CD25 high Foxp3 + cells and were resistant to apoptosis, while CD4 + CD25 neg T cells were sensitive. Only Treg upregulated anti-apoptotic and down-regulated pro-apoptotic proteins. Treg expressed higher levels of the PTEN protein than CD4 + CD25 neg cells. Activated Treg6RAPA preferentially phosphorylated STAT5 and STAT3 and did not utilize the PI3K/ mTOR pathway. Conclusions/Significance: RAPA favors Treg expansion and survival by differentially regulating signaling, proliferation and sensitivity to apoptosis of human effector T cells and Treg after TCR/IL-2 activation.
Formal semantics of VHDL for verification of circuit designs

Despite of the recent progress on formal verification of circuit designs, there exists a big gap between the hardware designers and the people who conduct formal verification (called verifiers), because of the lack of common specification languages. To solve this problem, we choose VHDL, a standard hardware design language, and enrich it properly so that the designer and the verifier has a unified platform to design and verify circuits. We develop a denotational semantics for (a significant subset of) VHDL, and based on this semantics we implement a prototype translator which automatically translates VHDL into logic formulas. We have used this translator and a theorem prover for formally verifying both combinatorial and sequential (synchronous) circuits written in VHDL. >
Troleandomycin: Effectiveness in steroid-dependent asthma and bronchitis☆☆☆

Abstract The steroid dose-reducing capacity of troleandomycin (Tao), a macrolide antibiotic, was substantiated by a double-blind crossover study of 74 corticosteroid-dependent asthmatic and bronchitic subjects. Fifty were marked responders, 13 probable responders, and 11 nonresponders. Responders also improved in their sputum production, pulmonary function measurements, need for aerosolized bronchodilators, and subjective evaluations. Tao was effective when used concomitantly with methylprednisone. At a dose of up to 16 mg. of methylprednisolone per day, along with 250 to 500 mg. of Tao per day, patients could either retain a normal serum cortisol level or increase this to normal values 24 to 48 hours after the last dose. Hepatic function abnormalities were usually mild and transient but 10 had increased alkaline phosphatase levels, prompting discontinuation in some patients. The mechanism of action is not known, but in 11 of 14 marked responders on Tao, the threshold dose of methacholine required to produce a 20 per cent fall in Fev 1 was substantially increased. The antibiotic property of Tao did not explain improvement.
LDF™ Thermoplastic Composites Technology:

Recent developments of the innovative LDF™ thermoplastic composites technology are reviewed with emphasis on discussion of the technology's fundamental basis and composites' property performance. The proprietary technology employs reinforce ment of long, aligned discontinuous fibers including carbon, Kevlar® or glass. Fabrication processes such as stretch forming and press forming can be employed in fabrication of LDF™ composite parts. The LDF™ composites technology is cost effective for manu facturing complex-shaped parts of aerospace structures. LDF™ composites show ex cellent mechanical properties comparable to that of the continuous fiber reinforced counterpart, since the reinforcing long fibers with thermoplastic matrix are well aligned. Mechanical test results with various LDF™ composites confirm the fundamental theory for non-continuous fiber reinforcement describing critical fiber length necessary to achieve efficient average stress transfer in a composite.The mechanical and other relevant propert...
A Method of Solving Very Large Physical Systems in Easy Stages

Physical systems with a very large number of variables (say with tens of thousands) may be solved with available digital computers by tearing the system apart into a large number of small subdivisions. After solving each subdivision separately, the partial solutions are interconnected by a set of transformations so as to obtain the exact solution of the original system. Among the many advantages of the tearing method is the reduction of the amount of original calculations to a small fraction of about 2/n2, where n is the number of subdivisions. Another advantage is the reduction of the number of nonzero elements in inverse matrices to a fraction smaller than 1/?n. The same labor saving appears also in smaller systems using slide-rule calculations. This paper illustrates the solution of Maxwell two-dimensional field-equations by tearing their electriccircuit models apart into a convenient number of subdivisions.
Using spatiotemporal statistical models to estimate animal abundance and infer ecological dynamics from survey counts

Ecologists often fit models to survey data to estimate and explain variation in animal abundance. Such models typically require that animal density remains constant across the landscape where sampling is being conducted, a potentially problematic assumption for animals inhabiting dynamic landscapes or otherwise exhibiting considerable spatiotemporal variation in density. We review several concepts from the burgeoning literature on spatiotemporal statistical models, including the nature of the temporal structure (i.e., descriptive or dynamical) and strategies for dimension reduction to promote computational tractability. We also review several features as they specifically relate to abundance estimation, including boundary conditions, population closure, choice of link function, and extrapolation of predicted relationships to unsampled areas. We then compare a suite of novel and existing spatiotemporal hierarchical models for animal count data that permit animal density to vary over space and time, including formulations motivated by resource selection and allowing for closed populations. We gauge the relative performance (bias, precision, computational demands) of alternative spatiotemporal models when confronted with simulated and real data sets from dynamic animal populations. For the latter, we analyze spotted seal (Phoca largha) counts from an aerial survey of the Bering Sea where the quantity and quality of suitable habitat (sea ice) changed dramatically while surveys were being conducted. Simulation analyses suggested that multiple types of spatiotemporal models provide reasonable inference (low positive bias, high precision) about animal abundance, but have potential for overestimating precision. Analysis of spotted seal data indicated that several model formulations, including those based on a log-Gaussian Cox process, had a tendency to overestimate abundance. By contrast, a model that included a population closure assumption and a scale prior on total abundance produced estimates that largely conformed to our a priori expectation. Although care must be taken to tailor models to match the study population and survey data available, we argue that hierarchical spatiotemporal statistical models represent a powerful way forward for estimating abundance and explaining variation in the distribution of dynamical populations.
THE EFFECTS OF AGE AND VISUAL CAPABILITY ON PERFORMANCE WITH PLANE AND CONVEX MIRRORS

Reaction times were measured for a detection task and a recognition task when using plane mirrors and when using convex mirrors. Three groups of nine drivers each (Young, Mature-with Bifocals, and Mature-No Glasses) were studied. The detection task consisted of reporting the number of Landolt Rings (0,1,2,3, or 4) that were made to appear in a mirror. The recognition task consisted of reporting the orientation (left, right, up, or down) of the Landolt Ring gaps. On both the detection and recognition tasks differences between types of subjects increased as the convexity of the mirror increased.The largest differences occured when the images were displayed in a 40 inch convex mirror. Here, Mature-No Glasses subjects took .77 seconds longer to report target orientation than Young subjects. On the same task Mature-Bifocaled subjects took only .18 seconds longer than the Young subjects.Since the longer reaction times of Mature-No Glasses subjects appears to be due to their poorer visual acuity it is recommende...
Subcortical and cerebellar atrophy in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy revealed by automatic segmentation.

Summary Purpose: To determine the validity and utility of using automated subcortical segmentation to identify atrophy of the hippocampus and other subcortical and cerebellar structures in patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE). Methods: Volumetric MRIs were obtained on 21 patients with MTLE (11 right, 10 left) and 21 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Labeling of subcortical and cerebellar structures was accomplished using automated reconstruction software (FreeSurfer). Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) was used to explore group differences in intracranial-normalized, age-adjusted volumes and structural asymmetries. Step-wise discriminant function analysis was used to identify the linear combination of volumes that optimized classification of individual subjects. Results: Results revealed the expected reduction in hippocampal volume on the side ipsilateral to the seizure focus, as well as bilateral reductions in thalamic and cerebellar gray matter volume. Analysis of structural asymmetries revealed significant asymmetry in the hippocampus and putamen in patients compared to controls. The discriminant function analysis revealed that patients with right and left MTLE were best distinguished from one another using a combination of subcortical volumes that included the right and left hippocampus and left thalamus (91—100% correct classification using cross-validation). Discussion: Volumetric data obtained with automated segmentation of subcortical and cerebellar structures approximate data from previous studies based on manual tracings. Our data
Single-hole imaging using borehole gravity gradiometry

ABSTRACTWe study the feasibility of imaging density variations away from boreholes using gravity gradient measurements in a single borehole. The objective is to develop numerical interpretation tools and to understand the utility and limitations of borehole gravity gradiometry in anticipation of the development of such instruments for the exploration and production of minerals, oil, and gas. We develop an analytic solution for directly locating discrete off-hole mass anomalies and apply a generalized inverse approach to image anomalous density distribution. In the analytic approach, we solve for the distance and direction angles to a point source using the multiple components of the gravity gradient tensor from a set of observations in a single borehole; and then apply this approach to the scenarios of prismatic sources. In the generalized inverse approach, we invert multiple gradient tensor components to construct 3D density contrast distributions around the borehole. As few as two independent gravity gr...
Stigma, Halo Effects, and Threats to Ideology: Comment on The Fewer the Merrier?

Conley, Moors, Matsick, and Ziegler (2012) explore an increasingly relevant societal issue: whether those in consensual nonmonogamous (CNM) relationships are stigmatized, and whether halo effects surround those in monogamous relationships. Across experimental studies they demonstrated that people tend to have negative perceptions of those participating in CNM relationships relative to the rose-colored views of those participating in monogamous relationships. Although some might expect that the perceptions of those self-reported to be in CNM relationships drastically differ, Conley et al. also found that CNM individuals rated monogamous couples more favorably than CNM couples on a variety of relationship relevant traits. One possible explanation for the latter finding is that CNM individuals, despite being potentially disadvantaged by their non-normative relationship status, may be motivated to defend, rationalize, and even bolster the status quo, consistent with a framework outlined by system justification theory (Jost, Banaji, & Nosek, 2004; Jost & Hunyady, 2005). Although the link between beliefs about relationships and support for the broader sociopolitical system is seemingly distal, recent research has demonstrated that individuals are
Writing Papers in Math Class: A Tool for Encouraging Mathematical Exploration by Preservice Elementary Teachers.

This paper describes the author's attempt to design assignments that engage preservice elementary teachers in original mathematical thinking. In particular, the choice of integer operations as the focus of a structured writing assignment that takes students two weeks to complete is explained and justified. Exemplary student work is quoted.
Effect of Nitrogen Implants on Boron Transient Enhanced Diffusion

The effect of nitrogen implants on boron transient enhanced diffusion was studied for nitrogen-only, boron-only, and boron plus nitrogen implants. A boron buried layer was used as a detector for interstitial supersaturation in the samples. Boron dose ranged from 1×1014 to 1×1015 cm-2 and N2+ dose from 5×1013 and 5×1014 cm-2. The energies were chosen such that the location of the nitrogen and boron peaks matched. After the implants, RTA and low temperature furnace anneals were carried out. The diffusivity enhancements were extracted from the buried layer profiles by simulation. Nitrogen-only implants were found to cause significant enhanced diffusion on the buried boron layer. For lower doses, the enhancement of the nitrogen implant is about half as that of boron whereas the enhancements are equal at higher doses. Nitrogen coimplant with boron increases the transient enhanced diffusion of boron at low boron doses, which implies that nitrogen does not act as a strong sink for excess interstitials unlike carbon. At high boron doses, nitrogen co-implant does not significantly change boron diffusion. Sheet resistance measurements indicate that low nitrogen doses do not affect the activation of boron whereas high nitrogen doses either reduce the activation of boron or the mobility of the holes.
A comparison of the power of the t test, Mann-Kendall and bootstrap tests for trend detection / Une comparaison de la puissance des tests t de Student, de Mann-Kendall et du bootstrap pour la détection de tendance

Abstract Monte Carlo simulation is applied to compare the power of the statistical tests: the parametric t test, the non-parametric Mann-Kendall (MK), bootstrap-based slope (BS-slope), and bootstra...
Using self- and peer-assessments for summative purposes: analysing the relative validity of the AASL (Authentic Assessment for Sustainable Learning) model

The purpose of this paper is to provide a proof of concept of a collaborative peer-, self- and lecturer assessment processes. The research presented here is part of an ongoing study on self- and peer assessments in higher education. The authentic assessment for sustainable learning (AASL) model is evaluated in terms of the correlations between sets of marks. The article provides an explanation of the assessment process, and analyses sets of marks as a means of justifying the validity of the process. The results suggest that students, even those with no prior experience in peer- or self-evaluation, in their first year of tertiary study, under the right conditions, are able to accurately judge their own work and make reasonably accurate judgements of the work of their peers. While previous studies have expounded the benefits of self- and peer assessments in tertiary study, undertaking a prescribed process, such as AASL, has a further implication in allowing others to replicate the process with reasonable as...
Ankle training with a robotic device improves hemiparetic gait after a stroke.

Background. Task-oriented therapies such as treadmill exercise can improve gait velocity after stroke, but slow velocities and abnormal gait patterns often persist, suggesting a need for additional...
k-Strongly Connected m-Dominating and Absorbing Set in Wireless Ad Hoc Networks with Unidirectional Links

Since there is no fixed infrastructure or centralized management in wireless ad hoc networks (WANs), virtual backbone has been proposed as the routing infrastructure to alleviate the broadcasting storm problem. Because the virtual backbone nodes need to carry other node's traffic and subject to failure, it is desirable to construct a fault tolerant virtual backbone. Most recent research has studied this problem in homogeneous networks. In this paper, we propose solutions for efficient construction of a fault-tolerant virtual backbone where the wireless nodes have different transmission ranges. Such a network can be modeled as a disk graph where any link between two nodes is either unidirectional or bidirectional. Since the graph is directed, we formulate the fault tolerant virtual backbone problem as a k- strongly connected m-dominating and absorbing set problem (k-m-SCDAS). We first propose two heuristics, one to construct a 1-m-SCDAS and the other one to obtain a k-1-SCDAS in a directed graph. We next combine these two approaches to develop a general construction of k-m-SCDAS. Through extensive simulations, we compare the performance of these proposed algorithms.
Aggregate formation and collision efficiency in differential settling.

Abstract A new method of application of Stokesian dynamics, which can efficiently simulate movements of up to 500 particles with interparticle interactions in reasonable computational times, has been developed for the purpose of investigating particle–cluster aggregation in aqueous systems. The method is applied to monodisperse non-Brownian spherical particles aggregating in differential settling, while repulsive colloidal interaction is presumed to be negligible, so that a minimum separation distance can represent the attractive van der Waals force. The final aggregates formed by this algorithm, composed of 300 primary particles, have a common fractal dimension of ∼2.0. The computed collision efficiency, defined as the product of a global and a capture efficiency, is about 5.77×10−3. This value is significantly larger than the collision efficiency of primary particles colliding with an impermeable solid sphere of the same size as the aggregate, illustrating the important interplay between the permeability and the formation of aggregates.
The floral hosts and distribution of a supposed creosote bush specialist, Colletes stepheni Timberlake (Hymenoptera: Colletidae)

Colletes stepheni Timberlake, previously thought to be a narrow oligolege of Larrea (creosote bush) of limited distribution in the Sonoran Desert, is found to be a much more widely distributed psammophile of the Sonoran, Mojave and Great Basin Deserts that utilizes two unrelated plant pollen sources, Larrea (Zygophyllaceae) and Psorothamnus (Fabaceae). The geologic history of the region suggests a potential host shift from the more ancient occupant, Psorothamnus , to the Neogene colonizer, Larrea.
Robot-Assisted Partial Atrioventricular Canal Defect Repair and Cryo-Maze Procedure

Atrial septal defect is one of the most common congenital heart anomalies in adults. Patients with partial atrioventricular canal defects, previously known as ostium primum atrial septal defect, usually present at an early age, and only a few reach adulthood without surgical correction. Herein, we describe a young woman who presented with an ostium primum defect and severe symptomatic mitral and tricuspid regurgitation with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. A complex repair was successfully done through a left atrial approach using robot-assistance.
Association Between Early Cardiac Rehabilitation and Long-term Survival in Cardiac Transplant Recipients.

Abstract Objective To determine whether participation in early cardiac rehabilitation (CR) after heart transplant (HTx) affects long-term survival. Patients and Methods A retrospective review was conducted in 201 patients who underwent HTx at Mayo Clinic between June 1, 2000, and July 31, 2013. Patients were excluded with multiorgan transplant, no CR data, and follow-up less than 90 days after HTx. Demographic and exercise data at baseline before HTx were collected. Post-HTx exercise capacity, biopsy, CR data, and medications were collected at 1 through 5 and 10 years. Results Overall survival at 1, 5, and 10 years was 98%, 88%, and 82%, respectively; 29 patients died. Number of CR sessions attended in the first 90 days after HTx predicted survival in multivariate regression, controlling for baseline post-HTx 6-minute walk test (6MWT) results and rejection episodes (hazard ratio, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.82-0.97; P =.007). Additional univariate predictors of survival included pre-HTx 6MWT results, weight at HTx, and body mass index and systolic blood pressure at CR enrollment. Pre-HTx 6MWT results, body mass index, and post-HTx were associated with improvement in peak oxygen consumption. Conclusion This report demonstrates, for the first time, an association between CR and long-term survival in patients after HTx. Further work should clarify the most beneficial aspects of CR.
Evaluation of Inpatient Influenza and Pneumococcal Vaccination Acceptance Rates With Pharmacist Education

Objectives:To detail the implementation of a pharmacist-driven education program targeting patients who originally declined pneumococcal or influenza vaccination upon hospital admission and to evaluate the results.Methods:Patients admitted to a small community hospital who qualified to receive pneumococcal polysaccharide or influenza vaccination but declined upon admission were educated in person by pharmacists or pharmacy interns and reoffered vaccination. Patient education sheets were provided. Data were obtained via pharmacy intervention documentation in the pharmacy order entry system. Staff documented the outcome of counseling for each patient.Results:A total of 214 and 83 patients receiving influenza and pneumococcal vaccination counseling, respectively, were evaluated. As a result, 23.4% (P = .06) and 26.5% (n = 83, P = .18) of patients agreed to receive influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, respectively. An unanticipated subset of patients were undecided after counseling and wanted to consider the ...
The Generalized Intelligent Framework for Tutoring (GIFT) as a Tool for Human Factors Professionals

The Generalized Intelligent Framework for Tutoring (GIFT) is an open-source domain-independent intelligent tutoring system (ITS) framework. It provides the tools and capabilities to design a complete ITS, manage student instruction, and serve as a testbed for experimentation and analysis. GIFT was developed to provide a cost-effective and efficient means for developing ITSs that have interchangeable parts and can be reused. Additionally, GIFT provides the ability for human factors professionals to develop and run complete experiments in a computer-based environment. This demonstration will provide an introduction to GIFT, along with the motivation behind its design. Further, a demonstration of the tools that are useful to human factors practitioners and psychologists will be provided, and examples of courses that have been developed using GIFT will be shown.