cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Une cause inhabituelle de sténose après dilatation carotidienne

La dilatation carotidienne (DC) est devenue une alternative a l'endarteriectomie, en particulier chez les patients ayant des antecedents de chirurgie ou de radiotherapie cervicale pour cancer. La restenose apres DC reste une complication peu frequente, qui est causee principalement par l'hyperplasie myointimale et qui survient dans les deux ans qui suivent la mise en place du stent. Nous presentons un cas inhabituel de restenose carotidienne survenue a 18 mois, cause par une recidive tumorale locale et qui fut traitee par la mise en place d'un nouveau stent.
T2KK, a Mton water Cherenkov detector in the line of the T2K beam

These proceedings describe the proposed Tokai to Kamioka and Korea (T2KK) experiment, and its sensitivity to CP violation and mass hierarchy as a function of the off-axis angle of the Korean detector. I also describe the different kinds of background present in such an experiment and my method to simulate them.
First Time in the Sim Lab: Designing and Implementing Effective Scenarios for the Novice Student

and you have troublegetting out of the room when you answer the light. You struggle with the assignment becauseyou feel you are neglecting the patient who is acutely ill. Progressive care nurses work in areas of high acuity and learn time management and clinical judgment during their orientation. They are taught a multitude of safety skills to enhance their patient care. Although the classroom serves as an excellent background for education, some skills cannot be learned there. We sought to provide an opportunity for experiential learning in: the management of an acute patient situation, communication with members of the healthcare team, and managing multiple patients without comprising patient safety. Simulation provides a safe opportunity for new nurses to manage a patient in crisis. Simulation can provide all of these opportunities in a single session. We designed a scenario which begins with a brief handoff, giving them the experience of uncertainty in caring for patients without comprehensive knowledge of their situation. They are ‘‘assigned’’ to two patients. One patient is more acutely ill, and they worsen during the scenario. This provides the opportunity to notice change, assess the problem, provide appropriate interventions and evaluate results: all elements of clinical judgment. The other patient in their ‘‘assignment’’ is less physically ill, but has anxiety that distracts the nurse, and gives the nurse an opportunity to learn to provide adequate reassurance and still disengage in a timely manner. The scenario requires prioritization, problem solving and delegation. Participants who are not involved in the scenario observe from the debrief room via cameras. Each scenario is followed by a debriefing session to allow for reflective learning, exploration of feelings and clarification of clinical information. Debriefing follows the advocacy-inquiry model to encourage reflective learning. Key concepts in the debriefing include personal accountability, communication, prioritization, safety, and information management. A component of the debriefing is handoff communication and new participants take over the care as the scenario develops. The simulation experience provides a safe environment to apply new concepts and skills. Our participants value this opportunity to take risks without harm to patients, problem solve in a group, and take away new ideas from colleagues to enhance their patient care. This presentation will discuss the organization and flow of learning objectives and activities, as well as key elements of the debriefing sessions.
Limitations of Maximum Likelihood Estimation Procedures When a Majority of the Observations Are Below the Limit of Detection

We evaluated the performance of maximum likelihood estimation procedures to estimate the population mean and standard deviation (SD) of log-transformed data sets containing serum or urinary analytical measurements with 50-80% of observations below the limit of detection (LOD). We found that maximum likelihood procedures are limited in their ability to accurately estimate the population mean and SD when the percent of censored data was large and sample size was small. The means were more likely to be underestimated and the SDs were more likely to be overestimated using these procedures. When the sample size, N, was or=70%, the procedure without imputations performed better than those with imputations. However, the procedure with multiple imputations performed better than or was comparable to other procedures when N was at least 100. This finding was consistent with the improved estimates of the mean and SD in a data set ( N = 113) of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations using multiple imputations. We recommend the use of maximum likelihood procedures with multiple imputation when N >or= 100 and P or= 70%. However, it should be the expected that biases for both mean and SD in these circumstances may be unacceptably high.
Optokinetic thresholds in the normal monkey

Abstract Lower and upper optokinetic frequency thresholds were determined in 5 lightadapted monkeys ( Macaca mulatto ) at luminances between 7,73 and 0,82 log ft-L. Eye movements were recorded by R.C. electrooculography. The potentials were digitized, counted and statistically evaluated by a specially programmed computer. The occurrence of optokinetic responses was indicated by a significant asymmetry in the number of eye movements to the right and to the left as evaluated by the binomial test. Mean lower thresholds ranged between 0,12–0,27 cps and were not significantly influenced by luminance. Mean upper thresholds varied significantly with luminance from 4·88 to 10·14 cps and exhibited a double contour with the discontinuity close to 2 log ft-L. A consistent increase in sensitivity was found at this level which may be the reflection of a brightness enhancement phenomenon. The estimated absolute luminance threshold lay approximately at 6·35 log ft-L.
Extrahepatic immunologic features of chronic viral hepatitis.

Patients with chronic viral hepatitis commonly have immunologic manifestations, including autoantibodies and concurrent immune diseases. These immunologic findings may resemble those of autoimmune hep
Complex-I-ty in aging

The role of mitochondrial complex I in aging has been studied in both C. elegans and Drosophila, where RNAi knock down of specific complex I subunits has been shown to extend lifespan. More recently, studies in Drosophila have shown that an increase in mitochondrial activity, including complex I-like activity, can also slow aging. In this review, we discuss this apparent paradox. Improved maintenance of mitochondrial activity, mitochondrial homeostasis, may be responsible for lifespan extension in both cases. Decreased electron transport chain activity caused by reducing complex I subunit expression prompts an increase in stress response signaling that leads to enhanced mitochondrial homeostasis during aging. Increased complex I activity, as well as mitochondrial biogenesis, is expected to both directly counteract the decline in mitochondrial health that occurs during aging and may also increase cellular NAD(+) levels, which have been linked to mitochondrial homeostatic mechanisms through activation of sirtuins. We suggest that manipulations that increase or decrease complex I activity both converge on improved mitochondrial homeostasis during aging, resulting in prolonged lifespan.
Synthesis and characterization of antiseptic-based poly(anhydride-esters).

Poly(anhydride-esters) were prepared from catechol, fenticlor and hexachlorophene. The molecular weights (Mw) of the polymers were typically >10,000 Da with glass transition temperatures (Tg) ranging from 23 to 84 °C. The thermal characteristics of the polymers paralleled the melting temperatures of the chemically incorporated antiseptic molecules. The in vitro release of the chemically incorporated antiseptic molecules were monitored over a 12 week period. For comparison, the in vitro release of physically admixed antiseptic molecules were also observed. After 12 weeks, the polymers were not completely degraded with drug release ranging from less than 1 to 55%. Sessile-drop contact angles indicated that the polymers were relatively hydrophobic, contributing to the slow polymer degradation rates.
MOLECULAR EVOLUTION OF GPCRS: Melanocortin/melanocortin receptors

The melanocortin receptors (MCRs) are a family of G protein-coupled receptors that are activated by melanocortin ligands derived from the proprotein, proopiomelanocortin (POMC). During the radiation of the gnathostomes, the five receptors have become functionally segregated (i.e. melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), pigmentation regulation; MC2R, glucocorticoid synthesis; MC3R and MC4R, energy homeostasis; and MC5R, exocrine gland physiology). A focus of this review is the role that ligand selectivity plays in the hypothalamus/pituitary/adrenal-interrenal (HPA-I) axis of teleosts and tetrapods as a result of the exclusive ligand selectivity of MC2R for the ligand ACTH. A second focal point of this review is the roles that the accessory proteins melanocortin 2 receptor accessory protein 1 (MRAP1) and MRAP2 are playing in, respectively, the HPA-I axis (MC2R) and the regulation of energy homeostasis by neurons in the hypothalamus (MC4R) of teleosts and tetrapods. In addition, observations are presented on trends in the ligand selectivity parameters of cartilaginous fish, teleost, and tetrapod MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R paralogs, and the modeling of the HFRW motif of ACTH(1-24) when compared with α-MSH. The radiation of the MCRs during the evolution of the gnathostomes provides examples of how the physiology of endocrine and neuronal circuits can be shaped by ligand selectivity, the intersession of reverse agonists (agouti-related peptides (AGRPs)), and interactions with accessory proteins (MRAPs).
Conversational robots: building blocks for grounding word meaning

How can we build robots that engage in fluid spoken conversations with people, moving beyond canned responses to words and towards actually understanding? As a step towards addressing this question, we introduce a robotic architecture that provides a basis for grounding word meanings. The architecture provides perceptual, procedural, and affordance representations for grounding words. A perceptually-coupled on-line simulator enables sensory-motor representations that can shift points of view. Held together, we show that this architecture provides a rich set of data structures and procedures that provide the foundations for grounding the meaning of certain classes of words.
Economic Development and Strikes: A Comparative Analysis*

Theorists of class conflict have debated the nature of the relationship between economic development and the incidence of strikes. The liberal perspective contends that such developments as the growth in size of corporations and the separation of ownership from control enable modern management to institutionalize industrial conflict in the form of collective bargaining. In contrast, writers in the radical perspective argue that conflict will increase in late industrialization owing to such forces as the bi-polarization of classes and an increase in union strength. The present paper tests these structuralist theories by using data from a sampling of seventy-one nations representing a wide range in economic development. A polynomial regression analysis indicates that strike volume, a chief measure of overall strike activity, follows a parabolic curve—increasing until a GNP per capita of about $4,700 is reached and then declining. No support is found for the radical thesis of an upswing in strike activity at high levels of economic development. The findings on control variables indicate that the inflation rate and mass-media development have significantly positive effects on strike activity. Finally, a democratic political climate tends to lower strike volume.
A generic framework for mobility prediction and resource utilization in wireless networks

User mobility influences the performance seen by a mobile device in a wireless network. Knowledge of mobility patterns can be exploited to properly allocate network resources and enhance the performance and quality of service experienced by a mobile device for applications and services. Hence, mobility prediction plays an important role in the efficient operation of wireless networks such as WANs and WLANs. Access to mobility related information such as user movement provides an opportunity for networks to efficiently manage resources to satisfy user needs. Towards this goal, a generic methodology based on a control theoretic framework is proposed. The effectiveness of the approach using a prediction engine based on Hidden Markov Model (HMM) is illustrated. Incorporation of this engine in a control theoretic framework with feedback from an adaptive controller permits the efficient allocation of network resources to applications. The above framework is quite general and the HMM based engine can be replaced by other suitable models such as neural networks or ARMA. Simulation results for the HMM based model illustrate the effectiveness of the approach.
Analysis of fecal sterols by gas chromatography

Abstract A method has been described which permits the quantitative analysis of cholesterol and coprostanol in feces by gas chromatography. The data have been compared with those of column chromatography and the technique appears useful in the measurement of these substances in sterol balance studies.
Rapid identification of T helper and T cytotoxic/suppressor lymphocytes with an oxazine dye.

Peripheral blood lymphocytes displayed a plurality of sues and colors when exposed first to a methanolic solution of C.I. basic blue 141, then to an aqueous alkaline solution of the Same dye and Msed in a neutral HEPES buffer containing trace amounts of various salts. As confirmed with purified lymphocyte subpopula-tions obtained with a cell sorter, T helper cells (CD4) were small and their nuclei and cytoplasm stained deep blue. T cytotoxic/suppressor cells (CD 8) were larger than T helper cells, their nuclei stained pale green or blue green and their cytoplasm contained a cluster of magenta colored granules. From start to finish, the stain takes 15 min to perform. Used in the manner described, basic blue 141 holds promise as a rapid means of identifying and differentiating CD4 and CD8 cells under the ordinary light microscope without using monoclonal antibodies or fluorescence.
Racial Justice, Hegemony, and Bias Incidents in U.S. Higher Education

Formal administrative protocols for responding to bias incidents are now the norm in higher education. In considering these developments, the author of this article poses critical questions about racial justice work on campus, identifies key features of an under-acknowledged institutional racism, and contributes to discussions about ways that diversity and social justice efforts often reproduce rather than challenge systemic inequities.
Simple Two-Color Base-Calling Schemes for DNA Sequencing Based on Standard Four-Label Sanger Chemistry:

Two base-calling schemes for DNA sequencing are evaluated. Both are based on data collected from two broad-band emission channels derived from either one- or two-excitation channels. Standard four-dye Sanger reaction products are used in conjunction with capillary electrophoretic separation in a polymer matrix. Data acquisition is compatible with high light-throughput imaging and minimal data storage. In one scheme, commercial chromatographic software provides peak recognition and peak heights. The peak-height ratios from the two channels provide base-calling accuracies of 99.3% and 97.1% through 330 bp and 350 bp, respectively. In another scheme, ratiograms are derived from the two channels. The resulting step-like functions permit the calling of bases even when successive peaks are not resolved. The base-calling accuracy is 99% through 340 bp. Because of simplicity in implementation, either scheme should be readily applicable to high-speed, high-throughput DNA sequencing in capillary arrays.
Left atrial strain measured by two-dimensional speckle tracking represents a new tool to evaluate left atrial function.

Background Left atrial (LA) strain (e) and e rate (SR) analysis by two-dimensional speckle tracking can represent a new tool to evaluate LA function. To assess its potential value, the authors addressed whether LA e and SR measured in normal subjects correlates with other Doppler echocardiographic parameters that evaluate LA function and left ventricular function. Methods Sixty-four healthy subjects were studied. LA e and SR were calculated with the reference point set at the P wave, which enabled the recognition of peak negative e (e neg peak ), peak positive e (e pos peak ), and the sum of those values, total LA e (e tot ), corresponding to LA contractile, conduit, and reservoir function, respectively. Similarly, peak negative SR (LA SR late neg peak ) during LA contraction, peak positive SR (LA SR pos peak ) at the beginning of LV systole, and peak negative SR (LA SR early neg peak ) at the beginning of LV diastole were identified. Results Global LA e pos peak , e neg peak , and e tot were 23.2 ± 6.7%, −14.6 ± 3.5%, and 37.9 ± 7.6%, respectively. Global LA SR pos peak , SR early neg peak , and SR late neg peak were 2.0 ± 0.6 s −1 , −2.0 ± 0.6 s −1 , and −2.3 ± 0.5 s −1 , respectively. The above-described variables derived from analysis of global LA e and LA SR correlated significantly with Doppler echocardiographic indexes that evaluated the same phase of the cardiac cycle or the same component of the LA function, including indexes derived from mitral inflow, pulmonary vein velocities, tissue Doppler, and LA volumes. Global LA e pos peak , LA e tot , and LA SR early neg peak also correlated significantly with age or body mass index. Global LA SR late neg peak also correlated significantly with age. Conclusions LA e analysis is a new tool that can be used to evaluate LA function. Further studies are warranted to determine the utility of LA e in disease states.
Relationship of plasma sex steroids to the mating season of copperheads at the north‐eastern extreme of their range

A multi-year radio-telemetric study of the copperhead Agkistrodon contortrix (Serpentes: Viperidae) was conducted at the north-eastern extreme of its range to determine the relationship of plasma sex steroids of males to the mating season. Blood samples were collected in situ approximately every 2 weeks (repeat-test group) from radio-telemetered males during the 7-month active season (April–October) from 2001 to 2003 and assayed for concentrations of testosterone (T) and progesterone (P4). Blood samples were also obtained from a large number of incidental males (single-test group) for the analysis of seasonal levels of T and P4. The profiles of T and P4 showed a peak in August–September that corresponded to the single mating season (late July to late September). Both T and P4 had similar seasonal profiles, but absolute levels of these steroids were significantly different, with concentrations of T four- to fivefold greater. The mating season of the population we investigated differs from other (e.g. southern) populations, which show two mating seasons (late summer/early fall and spring) before the period of ovulation in mid- to late spring. When a mating season is absent in spring, inseminated females are obligated to store sperm over winter until ovulation in the spring. In studies of A. contortrix that document two mating seasons, peak levels of T in males are coincident with both of these periods. In contrast, we found that peak levels of T and P4 in males coincided with the occurrence of the single mating season, and levels were basal in spring. These results further support the idea that plasma sex steroids influence the expression of sexual behaviour in A. contortrix and other snakes. Nonetheless, confirmation of this view awaits experimental studies.
Measuring Self-Efficacy expectations for Social Skills: A methodological inquiry

This study offers one set of solutions to the conceptual and methodological problems that arise from extending Bandura's concept of self-efficacy to the area of social skills. A sample of 115 undergraduate psychology students completed the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire for Social Skills (SEQSS), developed for this study, the Beck Depression Inventory, the Social Avoidance and Distress (SAD) scale, and a questionnaire developed by Bandura for assessing efficacy expectations for being in groups. Half the subjects were retested in 1 week. The other half of the subjects were used to demonstrate predictive validity. Good internal consistency (coefficient alpha) and test-retest reliability were found. Significant predictive validity was found. Some construct validity for the questionnaire developed was provided by significant correlations with “Bandura's questionnaire” and with the SAD. Some relationships were found between depression and efficacy expectations; however, they seem primarily mediated by social anxiety. While the questionnaire developed needs more validity data, it is acceptable for basic research on social skills. It may also prove helpful in developing social skills training programs.
Interaction of mercury with human erythrocytes.

The binding of mercury to red blood cells was measured in terms of Hg203 uptake and desorption. The significant features of the binding are: ( a ) rapid achievement of equilibrium (3 to 5 minutes); ( b ) release of a Hg-complexing material from the red cells themselves which distorts the binding curves at low concentrations of metal (2.5 x 10-7 to 5.0 x 10-6 M); ( c ) prevention of binding by cysteine, glutathione, penicillamine, and EDTA but not by imidazole or histidine; ( d ) binding of mercury in amounts up to 7 times the reduced glutathione concentration of the cells before combination with glutathione itself; ( e ) binding primarily to sulfhydryl groups of hemoglobin and to a small number of stromal sulfhydryl groups, but also to other non-sulfhydryl cellular ligands after saturation of the sulfhydryl groups. Associated with the binding is inhibition of glucose uptake, induction of loss of K+, and decrease in osmotic fragility. These effects increase over the range of concentrations (1 x 10-17 to 1 x 10-15 moles of Hg/RBC) well below those that result in saturation of the cellular binding sites; above 1 x 10-15 moles/RBC, the effects decrease as the cells become saturated.
Vitamin D, Hypertension, Left Ventricular Hypertrophy, and Diastolic Dysfunction

The extra-skeletal effects of vitamin D have been increasingly recognized in the recent years and its effects on blood pressure and cardiac function are areas of active investigation. This article reviews the current state of knowledge about vitamin D with respect to blood pressure and left ventricular hypertrophy. Potential biological mechanisms implicated in linking vitamin D deficiency with hypertension and cardiac dysfunction are outlined along with data from both observational and randomized controlled trials on this topic.
The relationship between data and the precision of parameter estimates of hydrologic models

This paper presents a discussion of the relationship between data used for hydrologic model calibration and the precision of model parameter estimates. The analysis is conducted within the framework of the maximum likelihood approach to model selection. The concept of “information” is discussed and the relationship between information and parameter uncertainty is examined. This analysis provides some interesting insights into the role that the quantity and quality of the data used play in the identification procedure. Based on this, a method for selecting data sets suitable for model calibration is suggested. The ideas discussed are illustrated by means of simulation studies using a conceptual-type rainfall-runoff model.
SpiceRDb: an integrated knowledgebase of "spice-disease" remedies

SpiceRDb knowledgebase is a unique attempt to elucidate the science behind the action of spices on various disease pathways, using text mining and molecular modeling tools. These spice-remedies have been demonstrated to mediate therapeutic benefits for wide spectra of diseases ranging from multiple sclerosis to colorectal cancer. Furthermore, the docking studies identified curcumin, a component of turmeric, to be a potential disease biomarker for colorectal neoplasm. Thus, the usefulness of the SpiceRDb knowledgebase motivates us to make it available to the public community in order to benefit from the vast knowledge available about alternative medicine projects and the recent scientific evidences supporting the benefits of spice-remedies.
Theory of the fractional quantum Hall effect: The two-phase model.

A phenomenological theory of the quantum Hall effect in a large homogeneous sample based on the local-conductivity approach is proposed. We argue that a correlated electron system in the vicinity of a diagonal resistivity peak represents a random mixture of two phases: the quasielectron and the quasihole phase originating from two neighboring points of incompressibility. The two phases have different values of the local Hall conductivity which are quantized at low temperatures due to localization of quasiparticles by disorder. The effective diagonal resistivity of this system is found to be small everywhere except in a narrow interval of filling factors near the percolation threshold where the crossover between plateaus in the Hall resistivity takes place. Using an exact symmetry transformation, we show that both components of the resistivity tensor are related by a universal dependence which represents a semicircle. At low temperatures, the maximum value of the diagonal resistivity is finite and is determined by the heights of adjacent plateaus only.
Insecticides applied as low-volume and conventional sprays to control larvae of the house fly in poultry houses.

Small, compact spraying equipment was developed for applying low-volume and conventional insecticidal sprays by using carbon dioxide (CO2) as the propellent against larvae of Musca domestica L. Field tests were made with various formulations and concentrations of 6 insecticides. With conventional sprays applied at 2 g/m2, CIBA C-9491 ( O -(2,5-dichloro-4-iodophenyl) O,O -dimethyl phosphorothioate) wettable powder suspension, emulsions of dimethoate-dichlorvos mixture, and Monsanto CP-51543 (1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis ( p -ethoxyphenyl) cyclopropane) were the most effective; control lasted 11 days. Low-volume sprays of dimethoate and formothion at 2 or 4 g/m2 controlled the larvae 7 days.
A computer-based, automated, telephonic system to monitor patient progress in the home setting

In this report we describe an automated, telephonic system to monitor the progress of patients convalescing at home. The system includes a computerized central station that is capable of automated voice communication over the telephone, using voice reproduction, and touch-tone recognition. Peripheral hardware in multiple monitored homes need include only a touch-tone telephone, but may also be augmented by inexpensive, rudimentary diagnostic aids, such as a scale for body weight, a thermometer, or a blood pressure cuff and manometer. Current central hardware includes a NeXT computer, a fax modem, and a specialized telecommunications modem developed specifically for voice telecommunication using the NeXT. The central station acts like a robotic nurse in that it asks patients a series of questions and records the responses. The subjective questions to be asked are patient individualized and pre-selected by the physician from a question menu including items targeted specifically for the patient's disease or condition. In addition, clinical data such as body weight, blood pressure, and body temperature obtained from in-home diagnostic aids may be transmitted to the central station over the telephone using touch tones. The time-of-day and frequency of calling are pre-selectable, according to the patient's preference and clinical status. Data obtained by the central station can be easily accessed by the duty nurse via menu driven software. Reports depicting significant responses as a function of time are generated in graphical format to facilitate rapid identification of adverse trends. Hard copy reports can be dispersed directly by fax. Results from a pilot study show patients with cardiac disease readily use the system without difficulty or complaints. In one patient a five pound increase in body weight was detected, which prompted the patient's cardiologist to adjust his medication. In this way automated telephone follow-up can provide early detection of complications before they become severe, making the home environment safer and more secure for convalescence and contributing to reduced health-care costs.
Acute Psychosis in a Woman with a Prolactinoma

Changes in dopaminergic activity were inferred in a woman with a known prolactinoma several months prior to an acute psychotic episode. Serum prolactin levels reflected central dopaminergic activity, since both the endocrinologic regulation of prolactinomas and the pathophysiology of acute psychosis have been linked to alterations in dopaminergic activity. Serum prolactin levels fell approximately four months prior to onset of the psychotic episode and thus may have provided a predictive indicator of changing dopamine activity ir both the tubero-infundibular and the mesolimbic-mesocortical dopaminergic systems.
Formation of optically-active, metal silicides using ion implantation and/or oxidation

Abstract While Si-based integrated circuits dominate the microelectronics marketplace, they cannot be fabricated with optical functionality since Si is indirect. Alternative materials have been used in such applications but the ability to integrate an optically active material directly onto a silicon substrate to co-opt the advances in Si technology and processing capabilities is the better solution. Many of the transition metals form silicides that are direct band gap semiconductors and, as such, may be integrated with Si to achieve the desired optical properties. Ion implantation of the transition metal into Si was used to form the desired silicide phase by reaction of the metal with the Si substrate. Depending upon the fluence the resulting implanted layer can consist of a two-phase region in which the silicide phase forms as isolated precipitates randomly oriented within a heavily dislocated Si matrix. Rutherford backscattering/ion channeling spectrometry was used to monitor this process as a function of temperature and time. A unique method for orienting the silicide precipitates to align them crystallographically with the Si substrate and eliminate the ion-induced dislocations that form during the initial implant is discussed. This method involves oxidation of the implanted region to segregate the silicide phase at the oxide interface. Initial results of Os − ions implanted into Si(1 0 0) are presented.
From the desk of the guest editor: volume overview.

This issue of the International Journal of Telerehabilitation (IJT) contains original research evaluating the efficacy of telerehabilitation, viewpoint articles, a letter to the editor, a committee report from a working group within the American Telemedicine Association’s Telerehabilitation Special Interest Group, and an announcement from the American Telemedicine Association. It is important to note that legislation, regulation, and policy related to telerehabilitation continues to evolve. Therefore, the information presented in this issue of the IJT is current as of the time of its publication and reflects the most recent developments in the field.
Random Aggregation and Random-Walking Center of Mass

Two random aggregation models are used in demonstrating the properties of the random displacements r{sub i} of the center of mass of aggregating particles. It is found that {vert bar}r{sub i}{vert bar} is a randomly decreasing sequence that scales with the cluster size (steps) s and {Sigma}{sub i=1}{sup s} {vert bar}r{sub i}{vert bar} {proportional to} s{sup 1/D}, where D is the fractal dimension. The center-of-mass random walk is a consistent representation of the dynamics of aggregation.
Historical perspectives of The American Association for Thoracic Surgery: W. Gerald Austen

William Gerald Austen, ‘‘Jerry’’ or ‘‘WGA,’’ the 69th president of The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS), was born on January 20, 1930, in Akron, Ohio. When he graduated from high school at the age of 17 years, Austen moved to Boston, which he has since called home. Dr Austen received his Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Doctor of Medicine from Harvard Medical School. He started his internship at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in July 1955. Shortly thereafter, using his background in engineering, Dr Austen worked with MGH faculty Robert Shaw to develop the first cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) machine at MGH. The standard resident schedule at that time was 36 hours on, 12 hours off. Dr Austen, noting specifically that he was single at the time regaled, ‘‘On my night off, I actually spent about 4 or 5 hours doing research in either the basement of the MGH or Bob Shaw’s house. It was wonderful.’’ Austen and Shaw initially tested the CPB machine on dogs with J. Gordon Scannell, 58th AATS president, as cardiac surgeon. Austen admits, ‘‘We never had a dog that lived,’’ but the CPB machine, which initially cost approximately $400 to build, seemed to function well. The first 10 patients they tested in 1956 all had been chosen because it was determined by the medical staff that they had end-stage disease with ‘‘less than 30 days to live.’’ With Austen and Shaw behind the pump, 5 of their first 10 patients who were at the end of life lived and made a full recovery. It was the beginning of cardiac surgery at MGH. ‘‘When I look at it now, compared to what everyone is doing in science today, I guess I would say that it was pretty rudimentary. But it needed to be done because none of these things were known. It was just the right thing for an engineer to be involved in.’’ Austen published 15 peer-reviewed articles by the end of his residency, a formidable task for someone on call every other night. Dr Austen did additional training in general surgery at King College Hospital in London and cardiothoracic surgery at the General Infirmary in Leeds, which was a busy
Defining attitude for science educators

A distinct and complex definition of attitude is evolving within the literature. A mental readiness to respond and a correlational consistency between attitude and behavior—although controversial and in need of further study and analysis—remain viable subcomponents within the definition. Most agree that evaluation is the heartbeat of attitude. The impact of social influence on attitudes is becoming increasingly important. Attitudes are learned and not inherited.
Sparse Diagonal Forms for Translation Operators for the Helmholtz Equation in Two Dimensions

Abstract In the design of fast multipole methods (FMM) for the numerical solution of scattering problems, a crucial step is the diagonalization of translation operators for the Helmholtz equation. These operators have analytically simple, physically transparent, and numerically stable diagonal forms. It has been observed by several researchers that for any given precision ϵ, diagonal forms for the translation operators for the Helmholtz equation are not unique, and that some choices lead to more efficient FMM schemes than others. As is well known, original single-stage FMM algorithms for the Helmholtz equation have asymptotic CPU time requirements of order O ( n 3/2 ), where n is the number of nodes in the discretization of the boundary of the scatterer; two-stage versions have CPU time estimates of order O ( n 4/3 ); generally, k -stage versions have CPU time estimates of order O ( n ( k+ 2)/( k+ 1) ). However, there exist choices of diagonal forms leading to single-stage FMM algorithms with CPU time requirements of order O ( n 4/3 ), two-stage schemes with CPU time requirements O ( n 5/4 ), etc. In this paper, we construct such diagonal forms in two dimensions. While the construction of this paper is in no sense optimal, it is rigorous and straightforward. Our numerical experiments indicate that it is within a factor of two of being optimal, in terms of the number of nodes required to discretize the translation operator to a specified precision ϵ. The procedure is illustrated with several numerical examples.
The Historical Development of Corporate Criminal Liability

The application of criminal liability to corporations grew out of a minor common law doctrine that masters were criminally liable if their servants created a public nuisance by throwing something out of the house onto the street. The expansion of that doctrine to full corporate criminal liability was primarily the result of judicial interpretation of common law and existing statutory laws, rather than the result of any-deliberate legislative action Civil law countries, lacking the tradition of judicial interpretation, have never developed the concept of corporate criminality. Corporate criminal liability will probably continue to expand in common law countries, regardless of its merits.
Novel glial‐neuronal signalling by coactivation of metabotropic glutamate and beta‐adrenergic receptors in rat hippocampus.

1. We have previously reported that activation of group II-like metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) in rat hippocampus results in a potentiation of the accumulation of cAMP elicited by activation of G-protein Gs-coupled receptors. This large increase in cAMP levels results in release of cAMP or a cAMP metabolite and depression of synaptic transmission at the Schaffer collateral-CA1 pyramidal cell synapse through activation of A1 adenosine receptors. 2. Consistent with these studies, we report that antagonists of group II mGluRs block both the potentiation of cAMP accumulation elicited by activation of mGluRs and the depression of synaptic transmission induced by coactivation of mGluRs and beta-adrenergic receptors. 3. In situ hybridization studies suggest that of the cloned group II mGluRs only mGluR-3 mRNA is present in area CA1. Interestingly, mGluR-3 appears to be present predominantly in glia in this region. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that mGluRs coupled to potentiation of cAMP accumulation were present on glia rather than neurons in area CA1. 4. The selective group II mGluR agonist 2S,1'R,2'R,3'R-2(2,3-dicarboxycyclo-propyl)glycine (DCG-IV) failed to enhance cAMP-mediated electrophysiological responses to the beta-adrenergic receptor agonist isoprenaline (Iso) in CA1 pyramidal cells, suggesting that mGluRs coupled to potentiation of cAMP accumulation may not be present in these cells. 5. Pre-incubation of hippocampal slices with either of the selective glial toxins L-alpha-aminoadipic acid (L-AA) or fluorocitrate (FC) blocked mGluR-mediated potentiation of cAMP accumulation. However, L-AA and FC had no discernible effects on viability of CA1 pyramidal cells, or cAMP-mediated electrophysiological effects in these neurons. 6. Pre-incubation of hippocampal slices with the neurotoxin kainate resulted in disruption of neuronal transmission and degeneration of neurons in area CA1, but had no effect on mGluR-mediated potentiation of cAMP accumulation. 7. Pre-incubation of hippocampal slices with the cAMP/cAMP metabolite transport blocker probenicid blocked the depression of synaptic transmission elicited by coapplication of Iso and DCG-IV, while having no significant effect on cAMP accumulation elicited by these agonists. 8. Taken together, these data suggest that mGluRs coupled to potentiation of cAMP accumulation are present on glia rather than neurons in area CA1 of hippocampus. This suggests that a novel form of glial-neuronal communication may exist, since activation of these mGluRs in concert with beta-adrenergic receptors results in depression of synaptic transmission.
Immunoassay of thyroxine in unextracted human serum.

ABSTRACT A method for the immunoassay of thyroxine (T4) in unextracted human serum is presented. Thyroxine-binding antibody was obtained by immunization of a rabbit with bovine thyroglobulin. Sodium salicylate is used to block the binding of both labeled and unlabeled T4 to serum thyroxine-binding proteins. Bound and free labeled hormone are separated by adsorption to dextran-coated charcoal. The method is sufficiently sensitive to allow duplicate determinations at two dilutions using 20 μ1 of serum. The precision of the method is comparable to the competitive protein binding assay and there is excellent correlation between the estimation of T4 by these two methods (correlation coefficient, 0.97) in all clinical states.
On k-pairable graphs

Motivated by a 1994 result of Graham et al. (Amer. Math. Monthly 101(7) (1994) 664) about spanning trees of the graphs with an antipodal isomorphism, we introduce the concept of k-pairable graphs and extend the result in Graham et al. (Amer. Math. Monthly 101(7) (1994) 664) to this larger class of graphs. We then define a new graph parameter p(G), called the pair length of graph G. This parameter measures the maximum distance, in some sense, between a subgraph induced by half the vertices of G with the isomorphic subgraph induced by the other half of V(G). An upper bound for the parameter p(G) is given. Some properties of the k-pairable graphs and their product graphs are studied. We also post some problems for further research.
Quadrant interlocking factorization: A form of block L-U factorization

A new factorization technique, known as Quadrant Interlocking Factorization (QIF), has recently been shown to exhibit a degree of inherent parallelism which is superior to that of L-U factorization. It is shown here that the QIF method may be derived more simply using block L-U factorization (BLUF) techniques.
Leapfrog estimation of a fixed-effects model with unknown transformation of the dependent variable

Abstract This paper considers a fixed-effects panel version of the linear transformation model, in which the dependent variable is h(yt) for an unspecified, strictly monotonic h. Examples of the model include the multiple-spell proportional hazards model and dependent-variable transformation models (e.g., the Box–Cox model) with fixed effects. A semiparametric estimator, called the leapfrog estimator, is introduced and shown to be n -consistent and asymptotically normal. The leapfrog estimator allows for h to vary over time and for heteroskedasticity across observational units. Related semiparametric estimators are considered, and a general covariance result for estimators based on second-order U-processes is presented.
Kappa Opioid Receptor Activation in the Nucleus Accumbens Inhibits Glutamate and GABA Release Through Different Mechanisms

Through their actions in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), kappa opioid (KOP) receptors and their endogenous ligand, dynorphin, modify behaviors associated with the administration of drugs of abuse and are regulated by exposure to such drugs. Despite their demonstrated behavioral significance, the synaptic actions of KOP receptor ligands in the NAc are not clearly understood. Using whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings of NAc medium spiny neurons, we have found that, in addition to suppressing glutamate release, the KOP receptor agonist also inhibits GABA release. Interestingly, the mechanism of inhibition of the release of glutamate differs from that controlling GABA. reduces the frequency of Ca(2+)-independent miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents, but not miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents. Furthermore, while the inhibition of GABAergic transmission is blocked by the N-type Ca(2+) channel blocker omega-CgTx, the inhibition of excitatory glutamatergic transmission by is unaffected by N-type Ca(2+) channel blockade. These results indicate that KOP receptor activation inhibits GABA release by reducing Ca(2+) influx, but inhibits glutamate release at a step downstream of Ca(2+) entry.
Health Effects of Expressive Letter Writing.

Abstract This study is the first to experimentally examine the potential health benefits of expressive letter writing. College students (N= 108) were randomly assigned to one of three letter–writing tasks. Experimental participants wrote a letter to a socially significant other who either helped or hurt them, whereas control participants wrote a letter to a school official regarding an impersonal relational topic. At follow–up, experimental participants reported greater sleep duration and fewer days of illness–related activity restriction compared to controls. In addition, participants who wrote a letter to an offending individual reported better sleep quality relative to controls. Psychosocial outcomes did not vary according to group assignment. Findings point to the potential sleep–related health benefits of expressive writing.
Attenuation of ultrasound in normal liver and diffuse liver disease in vivo

Preliminary results of in vivo attenuation measurements of the liver have been obtained in 39 normal patients and in 35 patients with diffuse liver disease. A modified real-time sector scanner incorporating an online attenuation measurement method was used. The value of attenuation in normal liver was estimated as 0.52 +/- 0.03 dB/cm/MHz, measured at 3 MHz. Significantly higher attenuation values were obtained from patients with alcoholic and cardiac cirrhosis, and following hepatic artery infusion with chemotherapeutic agents. Lower values were obtained from patients with biliary cirrhosis, chronic active hepatitis, and diffuse infiltration by lymphoma or leukemia. Fatty infiltrated livers showed a wide range of values of 0.37-0.66 dB/cm/MHz. The results suggest that estimates of attenuation coefficients are useful in detecting the presence of diffuse liver disease.
Age and gender but not common chronic illnesses predict odor identification in older African Americans.

Objectives Loss of smell accompanies specific neurodegenerative diseases and may facilitate the early detection of these. Smell deficiency also engenders safety risks in the elderly. The Brief Smell Identification Test (BSIT), though clinically practical, is accompanied by limited normative data, and none for minority subjects. We sought to improve the clinical utility of the BSIT by determining the relationship between test score, demographics, and chronic illnesses in a minority cohort. Design We evaluated BSIT performance in a cohort of cognitively healthy older African Americans and compared our findings with all existing data for the test. Setting General community. Participants African Americans (N = 288) age 55–87 years living independently. Main Outcome Measure BSIT score stratified by demographic predictors. Results Age and gender were predictive of score, but education, global cognition, hypertension, diabetes, and thyroid disorder were not significantly related to performance within this cognitively healthy sample. Comparison of our findings with international studies suggests reasonably consistent performance levels across diverse samples. Conclusions The lack of a significant relationship between common chronic conditions, or sociocultural factors, with the BSIT score underscores the value of this test in screening for odor identification deficiencies in older subjects.