cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Downsampling of Signals on Graphs Via Maximum Spanning Trees

Downsampling of signals living on a general weighted graph is not as trivial as of regular signals where we can simply keep every other samples. In this paper we propose a simple, yet effective downsampling scheme in which the underlying graph is approximated by a maximum spanning tree (MST) that naturally defines a graph multiresolution. This MST-based method significantly outperforms the two previous downsampling schemes, coloring-based and SVD-based, on both random and specific graphs in terms of computations and partition efficiency quantified by the graph cuts. The benefit of using MST-based downsampling for recently developed critical-sampling graph wavelet transforms in compression of graph signals is demonstrated.
Competency Assessment in Simulated Response to Rescue Events

Abstract Background Reliable and valid instruments are needed to assess patient safety competencies, specifically nursing students' ability to appropriately respond to simulated rescue events. Methods This was an instrument development study conducted with 152 senior nursing students in 2 phases. Results Student groups performed poorly during the simulation scenario, with mean scores on the Heart Failure Simulation Competency Evaluation Tool ranging from 46% to 56%. Interrater reliability increased to .839 after item revision during Phase 2 of the study. Discussion This simulation competency assessment package is ready to be tested with more diverse student groups and novice nurses in the practice setting.
Multivesicular body formation and function in the light-adapted crayfish retina: a new interpretation

Quantitative TEM refutes the hypothesis of multivesicular body formation at dawn via the degradation of photoreceptor. No significant relationship exists between multivesicular bodies and rhabdom diameter or between multivesicular bodies and coated vesicles. The density of multivesicular bodies is related to the vesicle-producing Golgi bodies. A new theory concerning the formation and possible function of multivesicular bodies is discussed.
Performance on preventive cancer screening tests in the ambulatory setting by internal medicine resident physicians.

Background: Limited information exists about the quality and determinants of ambulatory care by resident physicians. Description: This study investigated whether year of training and primary care versus traditional categorical status for internal medicine residents influenced preventive cancer screening rates. Ambulatory patients cared for by 143 internal medicine residents in one program over a 1-year period were assessed. Patients eligible for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening were identified and test completion status was assessed. Patients who had not yet completed screening and had a visit with the resident physician were prospectively followed for subsequent test completion. Cancer screening rates, overall and among those overdue, were compared controlling for baseline patient characteristics. Evaluation: Among 3, 729 patients, overall test completion rates for breast (72%), cervical (75%), and colorectal cancer screening (56%) did not differ by year of training or type of training (...
Study of a molybdenum dithiocarboxylato complex. Chemical characterization, crystal and molecular structure of tetrakis(α-dithionaphthoato) molybdenum(IV)

The complex Mo(α-C10H7CS2)4 has been prepared from several starting materials: [Mo(NNHPh)2(butane-2,3-diolate)2] · H2NNHPh, [MoCl(NNMe2)2(PPh3)2]+Cl−, [MoO2 (MeCHOCHOHMe)2] · 2MeCHOHCHOHMe or [(C4H9)4N]6Mo7O24, reacted withα-C10H7CS2H. The complex Mo(α-C10H7CS2)4 crystallizes from CH2Cl2-Et2O in the orthorhombic space group Pbca,a=13.655(3)A,b=21.707(5)A,c= 26.365(2)A, V=7814.81A3, Z=8; 5075 reflections collected, 2723 used in solution to give R=0.0517, Rw=0.0564. The molybdenum is eight coordinate with geometry approximating to aD2d dodecahedron. The average Mo-S bond lengths are 2.526(3)A and 2.479(3)A for the dodecahedrala andb sites, respectively.
Solution Polarizability Dependence of Lipid Bilayer Interactions

Neutral lipid bilayers attract each other due to van der Waals (vdW) forces. These forces depend on the electrical polarizability of the aqueous medium in which lipid bilayers are formed. Because attractive vdW forces are balanced by repulsive forces, lipid bilayers form multilamellar vesicles. The equilibrium repeat spacing of multilamellar lipid bilayers is therefore a sensitive and accurate indicator of the force balance between membranes. We present a series of small angle x-ray scattering measurements in which vdW forces are controlled by the nature and electrical polarizabilities of aqueous solutes. We then discuss the interplay of vdW and electrostatic interactions inherent in these systems and heighlight their relevance to biological membranes.
Multiple effects of ryanodine on intracellular free Ca2+ in smooth muscle cells from bovine and porcine coronary artery: modulation of sarcoplasmic reticulum function

1. The effects of ryanodine and caffeine on intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) were studied by use of fura-2 microfluorometry in single smooth muscle cells freshly dispersed from bovine and porcine coronary artery. 2. Bovine and porcine cells demonstrated similar sensitivities to 10 min of exposure to ryanodine in physiological salt solution (PSS), as determined by comparable dose-dependent decreases in the subsequent [Ca2+]i transient induced by 5 mM caffeine. 3. Ryanodine (10 microM) caused a significant increase in [Ca2+]i to a plateau level 27 +/- 3% and 38 +/- 4% above baseline [Ca2+]i (baseline [Ca2+]i = [Ca2+]i at 0 min) in porcine and bovine cells, respectively, when bathed in PSS. In bovine cells the time required to reach 1/2 the plateau level was only 3 min versus 6 min for porcine cells. 4. The ryanodine-induced plateau increase in [Ca2+]i was 35 +/- 5% above baseline for bovine cells bathed in 0 Ca PSS (PSS including 10 microM EGTA with no added Ca2+), but only 7 +/- 3% above baseline in porcine cells during 10 min exposure to 10 microM ryanodine. In bovine cells [Ca2+]i showed proportional increases when extracellular Ca2+ was increased from the normal 2 mM Ca2+ PSS to 5 and 10 mM. 5. Cells pretreated with caffeine in 0 Ca PSS, which depleted the caffeine-sensitive sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ store, showed no increase in [Ca2+]i when challenged with 10 microM ryanodine. The ryanodine-associated increase in [Ca2+]i, which was sustained in 0 Ca PSS during the 10 min ryanodine exposure in cells not pretreated with caffeine, suggests that ryanodine releases Ca2+ from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, but also inhibits Ca2+ efflux.6. Intracellular free Ba2+ ([Ba24],) was measured with fura-2 microfluorometry to define further the Ca2" efflux pathway inhibited by ryanodine; specifically, Ba2+ is not transported by the Ca2" pump, but will substitute for Ca2" in Na+-Ca24 exchange. In porcine cells pretreated with caffeine in 0 Ca PSS to deplete the caffeine-sensitive sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ store, depolarization with 80 mM K4 in 2 mM external Ba24 caused a 100 +/- 6% increase in fura-2 fluorescence ([Ba2+]j). During the 17.5 min 0 Ca PSS recovery from depolarization, exposure to 10 microM ryanodine inhibited the removal of [Ba24]i by 69 + 3% when compared with control (0 Ca PSS without ryanodine).7. It was concluded that in bovine and porcine smooth muscle cells: (a) ryanodine (> 10 microM) releases Ca24 from the sarcoplasmic reticulum; (b) ryanodine ( 10O microM) decreases Ca24 efflux, probably by inhibition of Na+-Ca2+ exchange; (c) the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca24 store may be larger in bovine than in porcine smooth muscle cells; thus, porcine cells have a relatively greater reliance on Ca24 influx to increase [Ca2+]i.
WMD terrorism and US intelligence collection

Many analysts argue that better intelligence collection is necessary to improve the United States’ ability to prevent, deter and defeat WMD terrorism, but few give any concrete analysis of exactly what various types of intelligence can contribute to better understanding the WMD terrorist threat. This study outlines the emerging WMD terrorist threat and discusses the respective contributions that technical, human and open source intelligence can make in assessing the various stages of a WMD terrorist act. According to this analysis, neither imagery nor traditional human collection is capable of providing the critical information needed by policy makers. Rather, information collected by case officers working under unofficial cover and by clandestine means offer the best chance of identifying groups interested in producing and using WMD.
Electro-chromic effects in alkali metal bronze crystals

Abstract Electric field induced switching between two distinct color states has been observed on the surfaces of some alkali metal bronze crystals. Both color states are permanent and require no sustaining voltage. Color reversal is accomplished by reversing the polarity of the applied pulse. Typically, a 50 msec switching speed is achieved with less than 5V and current densities of the order of mA.s/cm2. These electrochromic effects are visually dramatic enough to make them potentially useful for a variety of reflective display applications.
High-brightness displays in integrated weapon sight systems

In the past several years Kopin has demonstrated the ability to provide ultra-high brightness, low power display solutions in VGA, SVGA, SXGA and 2k x 2k display formats. This paper will review various approaches for integrating high brightness overlay displays with existing direct view rifle sights and augmenting their precision aiming and targeting capability. Examples of overlay display systems solutions will be presented and discussed. This paper will review significant capability enhancements that are possible when augmenting the real-world as seen through a rifle sight with other soldier system equipment including laser range finders, ballistic computers and sensor systems.
Recursive and nonextendible functions over the reals; filter foundation for recursive analysis.II

Abstract In this paper we continue our work of Kalantari and Welch (1998). There we introduced machinery to produce a point-free approach to points and functions on topological spaces and found conditions for both which lend themselves to effectivization. While we studied recursive points in that paper, here, we present two useful classes of recursive functions on topological spaces, apply them to the reals, and find precise accounting for the nature of the properties of some examples that exist in the literature. We end with a construction of a recursive function on a small subset of the unit interval which is strongly nonextendible.
Antigen‐specific immunotherapy of cervical and ovarian cancer

We contrast the efforts to treat ovarian cancer and cervical cancer through vaccination because of their different pathobiology. A plethora of approaches have been developed for therapeutic vaccination against cancer, many of which target defined tumor-associated antigens (TAAs). Persistent infection with oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) types causes cervical cancer. Furthermore, cervical cancer patients frequently mount both humoral and T-cell immune responses to the HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins, whose expression is required for the transformed phenotype. Numerous vaccine studies target these viral TAAs, including recent trials that may enhance clearance of pre-malignant disease. By contrast, little is known about the etiology of epithelial ovarian cancer. Although it is clear that p53 mutation or loss is a critical early event in the development of epithelial ovarian cancer, no precursor lesion has been described for the most common serous histotype, and even the location of its origin is debated. These issues have complicated the selection of appropriate ovarian TAAs and the design of vaccines. Here we focus on mesothelin as a promising ovarian TAA, because it is overexpressed and immunogenic at high frequency in patients, is displayed on the cell surface, and potentially contributes to ovarian cancer biology.
Identity Style, Parental Authority, and Identity Commitment.

The role that parental authority patterns and social-cognitive identity styles may play in establishing identity commitments was investigated. The results indicated that family authority and identity style variables combined accounted for 50% of the variation in strength of identity commitment. As hypothesized, the relationship between parental authority and identity commitment was mediated by identity style. The findings are consistent with the view that family authority patterns may contribute to the way in which late adolescents negotiate the task of constructing a sense of identity. Alternative explanations of the findings are considered.
Thermal cyclization of bar|N-nnicotinoylalkyl indoles

Abstract An unusual thermal cyclization of N -nicotinoylalkylindoles using Grignard reagent is described.
Daily energy requirements in heart failure patients

Abstract Diminished body cell mass in heart failure patients contributes to poor prognosis and decreased quality of life. The level of daily energy intake needed to maintain body cell mass and optimal physiological function in heart failure patients is unknown. Thus, we examined daily energy expenditure in free-living heart failure patients to estimate daily energy requirements. Daily energy expenditure (doubly labeled water) and its components (resting and physical activity energy expenditures) were measured in 26 heart failure patients (25 men and one woman aged 69 ± 7 years) and 50 healthy controls (48 men and two women aged 69 ± 6 years). Resting energy expenditure was measured by indirect calorimetry; physical activity energy expenditure from the difference between daily and resting energy expenditure; body composition by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry; leisure time physical activity from a questionnaire; and peak oxygen consumption ([peak Vo2] = 16 heart failure patients) from a treadmill test to exhaustion. Plasma markers of nutritional status were also considered. Daily energy expenditure was 17% lower (2,110 ± 500 v 2,543 ± 449 kcal/d) and physical activity energy expenditure 54% lower (333 ± 345 v 728 ± 374 kcal/d) in heart failure patients compared with healthy controls. Daily energy expenditure was related to physical activity energy expenditure (r = .79, P
Karyotype analysis of Meloidogyne hapla by 3-D reconstruction of synaptonemal complexes from electron microscopy of serial sections

Meloidogyne hapla Race A (meiotic, n=17) females have 17 synaptonemal complexes (SC). The karyotype length is constant throughout pachytene, although nuclear volume increases as pachytene progresses. Each SC has at least one region in which two pairs of lateral elements run parallel to each other for a distance of 1–2 μm, thus forming a “double SC” (dSC). Decondensed chromatin regions (DCR) occur along some SCs and represent 5% of the length of the karyotype. The DCRs may be the location of the sex-determining chromatin. Spermatocytes from males of the same meiotic parthenogenetic race (A) have SCs and cylindrical granular complexes (CGC) while males and females from a mitotic (3n=45) parthenogenetic race (B) lack such structures. The CGCs may contribute precursors necessary for the formation of SCs.
Applying computer vision techniques to perform semi-automated analytical photogrammetry

The purpose of this research is to show how common computer vision techniques can be implemented in such a way that it is possible to automate the process of analytical photogram-metry. This work develops a workflow that generates a sparse three-dimensional point cloud from a bundle of images using SIFT, RANSAC, and a sparse bundle adjustment along with basic photogrammetric methods. It then goes on to show how the output of the sparse reconstruction method can be used to generate denser three-dimensional point clouds that can be facetized and turned into high resolution three-dimensional models. This workflow was successfully tested on a five image dataset taken with RIT's WASP imaging sensor over the Van Lare wastewater treatment plant in Rochester, NY.
What we are watching--five top global infectious disease threats, 2012: a perspective from CDC's Global Disease Detection Operations Center.

Disease outbreaks of international public health importance continue to occur regularly; detecting and tracking significant new public health threats in countries that cannot or might not report such events to the global health community is a challenge. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Global Disease Detection (GDD) Operations Center, established in early 2007, monitors infectious and noninfectious public health events to identify new or unexplained global public health threats and better position CDC to respond, if public health assistance is requested or required. At any one time, the GDD Operations Center actively monitors approximately 30-40 such public health threats; here we provide our perspective on five of the top global infectious disease threats that we were watching in 2012: (1) avian influenza A (H5N1), (2) cholera, (3) wild poliovirus, (4) enterovirus-71, and (5) extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis. Keywords: epidemic intelligence; disease detection; epidemiology; global health; emergency response; CDC (Published: 3 July 2013) Citation: Emerg Health Threats J 2013, 6 : 20632 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/ehtj.v6i0.20632
A comparative study of the effect of oxidative stress on the cytoskeleton in human cortical neurons.

Cytoskeleton disruption is a process by which oxidative stress disrupts cellular function. This study compares and contrasts the effect of oxidative stress on the three major cytoskeleton filaments, microfilaments (MFs), microtubule (MT), and vimentin in human cortical neuronal cell line (HCN2). HCN2 cells were treated with 100 μM tertiary butylhydroperoxide (t-BuOOH), a free radical generating neurotoxin for 1, 3, or 6 h. Cell viability studies demonstrated significant cell death although the morphology studies showed that there was a substantial loss in neurites of neurons treated with t-BuOOH for 6 h. Because the cytoskeleton plays a role in neurite outgrowth, the effect of oxidative stress on the cytoskeletal was studied. In neurons subjected to oxidative stress for 30 min or 1 h, there were no major changes in microfilament distribution though there was altered distribution of microtubule and vimentin filaments as compared to controls. However, loss and disruption of all the three cytoskeletal filaments was observed at later times (3 and 6 h), which was confirmed by Western Blot analysis. Further studies were done to measure the gene expression levels of actin, tubulin, and vimentin. Results indicated that the overall loss of the cytoskeletal proteins in neurons treated with free radical generating toxin might not be a direct result of the downregulation of the cytoskeletal genes. This study shows that free radical generation in human neurons leads to the disruption of the cytoskeleton, though there may be a difference in the susceptibility to oxidative stress among the individual components of the cytoskeletal filaments.
Density and temperature-dependent melanization of fifth-instar Melanoplus sanguinipes: interpopulation comparisons

Abstract Behavioral thermoregulation, by basking in sunlight, is very common in acridids. The resulting increased body temperatures may be beneficial by accelerating feeding and developmental rates and by enhancing disease resistance. The absorption of solar energy is affected by the degree of cuticular melanization. In this paper, we quantify differences in color and thermoregulation between subarctic and temperate populations of Melanoplus sanguinipes. We also quantify effects of rearing temperatures and density on melanization of 5th instars. Alaskan grasshoppers tended to be darker than those from Idaho when reared under the same conditions and Alaskan grasshoppers also responded to cooler rearing temperatures by increased pigmentation. Density-dependent melanization was evident in both populations. Increased pigmentation enhanced the ability to thermoregulate. Absorption of wavelengths in the near infrared region was similar to that in the visible range, confirming that visible color is a reliable me...
REPRODUCTIVE PHENOLOGIES IN LOBELIA INFLATA (LOBELIACEAE) AND THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL.

Flowering and fruiting phenologies of individual plants and flowers of Lobelia inflata, a North American summer annual, were studied in the field and greenhouse to determine whether onset of flowering and fruit maturation were correlated, and the degree to which these reproductive phenologies were influenced by the environment. Within each of two field populations, larger plants flowered earlier and produced more flowers than smaller plants. Onset of flowering was positively correlated with onset of fruit maturation but not perfectly so. Two factors decreased the intensity of this correlation. First, at the flower level, the earlier a flower bloomed, the longer the resulting fruit took to develop. Second, fruit development times varied significantly among individual plants. In the greenhouse, individuals watered more frequently attained greater size and flowered earlier than individuals watered less frequently. Nutrient additions did not affect plant size or onset of flowering. These results indicate that for the summer annual Lobelia inflata, reproductive phenologies are phenotypically correlated, and that timing of reproduction is resource and size dependent, as it is for other monocarpic plant species.
Fabrication methods for compact atomic spectroscopy

Atomic spectroscopy relies on photons to probe the energy states of atoms, typically in a gas state. In addition to providing fundamental scientific information, this technique can be applied to a number of photonic devices including atomic clocks, laser stabilization references, slow light elements, and eventually quantum communications components. Atomic spectroscopy has classically been done using bulk optics and evacuated transparent vapor cells. Recently, a number of methods have been introduced to dramatically decrease the size of atomic spectroscopy systems by integrating optical functionality. We review three of these techniques including: 1) photonic crystal fiber based experiments, 2) wafer bonded mini-cells containing atomic vapors and integrated with lasers and detectors, and 3) hollow waveguides containing atomic vapors fabricated on silicon substrates. In the context of silicon photonics, we will emphasize the hollow waveguide platform. At the heart of these devices is the anti-resonant reflecting optical waveguide (ARROW). ARROW fabrication techniques will be described for both hollow and solid core designs. Solid-core waveguides are necessary to direct light on and off the silicon chip while confining atomic vapors to hollow-core waveguides. We will also discuss the methods and challenges of attaching rubidium vapor reservoirs to the chip. Experimental results for optical spectroscopy of rubidium atoms on a chip will be presented.
Novel 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors: a patent review.

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death worldwide and hypercholesterolemia, or elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), is a key risk factor. The standard of care for treating hypercholesterolemia is the use of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, also known as statins, which block the rate-limiting step of cholesterol biosynthesis. In widespread clinical use, statins have proven safe and effective for both primary prevention of coronary heart disease and secondary prevention of coronary events. Areas covered: This review summarizes the patent literature and advances in the discovery and development of new HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors from 2000 to 2010. Expert opinion: The discovery of statins has had significant impact on reducing the worldwide burden of cardiovascular disease; nevertheless, the fact that heart disease remains a leading cause of death indicates that additional efforts are still needed. Using current statins, most patients at low and moderate risk of C...
Predictors of Nurse Practitioners' Autonomy: Effects of Organizational, Ethical, and Market Characteristics

Purpose To identify the predictors of autonomy of nurse practitioners (NPs) affiliated directly and/or indirectly with managed-care systems (e.g., HMOs). Data Sources A mailed survey sent to a stratified random sample of 254 NPs certified and licensed to practice in the state of Maryland. The measures consisted of selected organizational char-acteristics; market factors of HMO penetration and percentage of client population enrolled in managed care; and factors of ethical concern, such as ethical ideology, ethics education, and autonomy. The County Surveyor Database was used to assess market penetration in the state. Conclusions Although NPs were ethically concerned about their autonomy in a managed-care environment (70.2%), actual autonomy scores were high. The higher the percentage of HMO penetration, percentage of client population enrolled in managed care, and perceived ethi-cal concern, the lower the perceived autonomy of NPs. Implications for Practice Findings may be used for future research to address the complexity of variables that influence the autonomous practice of NPs.
Acquisition of four-component response chains after pretraining with each response link

Two pigeons each learned two separate four-link response chains on a nine-key intelligence panel. In Phase 1, each bird was taught four separate discriminations; that is, the bird pecked a particular key depending on which of four colors was present. Later, the four discriminations were linked together as a chain. Each bird made between 600 and 1,800 errors acquiring the chain. In Phase 2, four additional discriminations were learned. They were then presented in a multiple schedule and were linked together as a chain. Pretraining with the multiple schedule yielded fewer chaining errors in Phase 2 relative to Phase 1.
Ontogeny of prohormone convertases in rat prenatal development

It has been well established that peptide precursors usually undergo limited proteolysis at pairs or single basic amino acids during their biosynthetic process. This posttranslational modification paradigm is common for numerous membrane-spanning and secreted proteins, neuropeptides, and peptide hormones of physiological significance, in which endoproteolytic cleavage is invariably essential for the accurate biosynthesis and full activity of the mature products. Establishment of an effective peptide profile is dependent on not only the presence of peptide precursor, but also the presence and the enzymatic specificities of cleavage enzymes. We have, therefore, characterized the spatial and temporal patterns of six subtilisin-like serine endoproteases known to be involved in proprotein processing, including furin, PC1, PC2, PC4, PC5, and PACE4, in rat prenatal development and related the results to the expression patterns of several peptide precursors. We have observed largely distinct and sometimes complementary expression patterns of individual PCs in various embryonic structures, suggesting PCs may be functionally distinct in processing different sets of proprotein substrates in development. From these studies, numerous tentative enzyme-substrate relationships in various embryonic structures have been proposed and should encourage more studies to test the in vitro cleavage potentialities of individual PCs toward these precursors. In the future, knowledge gained from these studies, when combined with insights gained from in vivo perturbation and genetic ablation studies, should lead to final comprehensive understanding of specific precursors cleaved by specific enzymes at specific cleavage sites in known spatial and temporal expression patterns during development.
Monte Carlo based method for fluorescence tomographic imaging with lifetime multiplexing using time gates

Time-resolved fluorescence optical tomography allows 3-dimensional localization of multiple fluorophores based on lifetime contrast while providing a unique data set for improved resolution. However, to employ the full fluorescence time measurements, a light propagation model that accurately simulates weakly diffused and multiple scattered photons is required. In this article, we derive a computationally efficient Monte Carlo based method to compute time-gated fluorescence Jacobians for the simultaneous imaging of two fluorophores with lifetime contrast. The Monte Carlo based formulation is validated on a synthetic murine model simulating the uptake in the kidneys of two distinct fluorophores with lifetime contrast. Experimentally, the method is validated using capillaries filled with 2.5nmol of ICG and IRDye™800CW respectively embedded in a diffuse media mimicking the average optical properties of mice. Combining multiple time gates in one inverse problem allows the simultaneous reconstruction of multiple fluorophores with increased resolution and minimal crosstalk using the proposed formulation.
Application of Genetic Algorithm to Chemical Kinetics: Systematic Determination of Reaction Mechanism and Rate Coefficients for a Complex Reaction Network

We develop a systematic computational approach, which includes the genetic algorithm (GA) search method, to the minimal bromate reaction system, to automate the determination of its reaction mechanism and rate coefficients. We take the 10 species of the system as given, and then determine all possible bimolecular elementary reaction steps and all possible combinations of these steps that fulfill the given overall reaction. The optimization criteria used in the GA are chosen to be the following: The reaction mechanism must have an unstable focus, or must have oscillations; has specified ranges of periods of oscillations; and has specified ranges of inflow conditions. With rate coefficients given by Field, Koros, and Noyes1, we find reaction mechanisms with four and five elementary reaction steps that show oscillations but do not fit well the experimental [Br-]0 - [BrO3-]0 oscillation domain. We then determine, by GA, a set of rate coefficients in one particular five-step reaction mechanism that gives very...
Hydraulic Model of the Cerebrovascular Bed: An Aid to Understanding the Volume-Pressure Test

A hydraulic model of the cerebrovascular bed is presented. The model consists of a Starling resistor in series with an upstream resistance. Volume-pressure tests were performed on the model by injecting fluid into the rigid shell of the Starling resistor. An exponential pressure response to the incr
Model-Free Stochastic Localization of CBRN Releases

We present a novel two-stage methodology for locating a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, or Nuclear (CBRN) source in an urban area using a network of sensors. In contrast to earlier work, our approach does not solve an inverse dispersion problem but relies on data obtained from a simulation of the CBRN dispersion to obtain probabilistic descriptors of sensor measurements under a variety of CBRN release scenarios. At its first stage, subsequent sensor observations under nominal, CBRN event-free conditions are assumed to be independent and identically distributed and we rely on the method of types to detect a CBRN event. Conditional on such an event, subsequent sensor observations are assumed to follow a Markov process. Using composite hypothesis testing we map sensor measurements to a source location chosen out of a discrete set of possible locations. We leverage large deviation techniques to obtain a bound on the localization probability of error and propose several methodologies for fusing sensor data to arrive at a localization decision, including a distributed one. We also address the problem of optimally placing sensors to minimize the localization probability of error. Our techniques are validated numerically using two different CBRN release simulators.
Software Requirements for Statistical Quality Control

Abstract The use of statistical control techniques to improve product quality is recognized in industry today as a key factor in maintaining a competitive position. Widespread, effective use of these techniques requires that they be automated. This paper describes statistical quality control methodology and examines issues central to developing software for its implementation. Cumulative Sum (CUSUM) control methodology is emphasized. Requirements for diagnostic CUSUM plots, CUSUM control programs, and integrated on-line CUSUM control are presented.
Repressed Fear of Inexistence and its Hypnotic Recovery in Religious Students.

When college students were hypnotized and instructed to rate their “subconscious” fears of death, they expressed greater fear, of inexistence than when they were awake. At the same time, hypnotized students expressed no greater fear of death-related possibilities other than the possibility of inexistence. The hypnotically elicited fear of inexistence was marginally associated with a stronger belief in an afterlife and was significantly associated with greater hypnotic responsiveness. Such findings contradict the orthodox religious position: that death anxiety is truly eradicated, not merely repressed, by belief in an afterlife. Such findings also contradict the orthodox psychoanalytic position: that conscious death anxiety is secondarily derived from the libidinous deprivations of a subconscious mind that cannot fear its own death. Instead, the present findings suggest that the subconscious fear of inexistence is a primary-not a derived-phenomenon, from which religious and other death-denying behaviors ma...
Calcium-dependent regulation of potassium permeability in the glial perineurium (blood-brain barrier) of the crayfish

Abstract The physiological basis of the high selective potassium permeability of the crayfish glial perineurium was studied. The transient spike-like perineurial potential generated in high external [K + ] was used as a measure of barrier K + permeability. The medial giant axon membrane potential was used to monitor interstitial [K + ]. Perineurial current-voltage relations of the perineurium were used to measure electrical resistance and to determine changes in K + conductance of the perineurial barrier. Of a range of cations studied only Rb + , in addition to K + generated a large transient sheath potential. In some experiments “regenerative” multiple spikes were observed during the continued exposure of the perineurium to high [Rb + ] 0 . This degree of ion selectivity is typical of glial cell membranes and K channels. Barrier conductance increased only very briefly in Rb + ; the potential falling rapidly to a steady 5–10 mV. The P Cl /P Rb , and the P Cl /P k ratios at the peak transient potential were similar suggesting the permeability site for these cations was the same. The permeability of Rb + in the plateau phase was significantly lower than K + suggesting that high [Rb + ] 0 may act to block K + channels. The K + -selective permeability was reversibly blocked by extracellular Ba 2+ at both the peak and the plateau phase, in a concentration-dependent manner. Other K-channel blocking agents, tetraethylammonium ions (10 mM), caesium ions (20 mM), and 3,4-diaminopyridine (0.5 mM) were ineffective. The effect of Ba 2+ on the peak potential was similar to the removal of external Ca 2+ or exposure to the Ca 2+ -channel blockers, verapamil (10 −4 M) or La 3+ (5 mM). The time- and concentration-dependent reversible block of the K + permeability of the perineurium was consistent with the known action of these agents on voltage-gated Ca 2+ channels in nerve and glia. La 3+ caused an irreversible decrease in perineurial conductance and K + influx. Lanthanum titration of the negative charges of glial membranes and mucopolysaccharide matrix of the intercellular space suggest they may be important factors in determining the magnitude of the perineurial leak and paracellular K + permeability. Electron microscopic examination of La 3+ distribution demonstrated a diffusion barrier at the outer layer of perineurial glia. The binding of La 3+ at the basolateral membranes of the glial barrier suggested this was the site at which La 3+ had its physiological actions. The results suggest that the increase in glial membrane K + conductance in high [K + ] 0 was most likely due to voltage-gated Ca 2+ and K + channels and Ca 2+ -activated K + channels of the membranes of perineurial glia.
The effect of hydrostatic pressure on the Fermi surfaces of rubidium and cesium

The anisotropy and absolute values of the pressure coefficients for the Fermi surfaces of rubidium and cesium in the 25-bar pressure range at 1 K have been measured. In both cases the area pressure coefficient anisotropy is considerably greater than the dimensional anisotropy, about 4.7 times in Rb and 5.6 times in Cs. The mean values, at 2.133±0.005×10−2 kbar−1 for Rb and 2.874±0.01×10−2 kbar−1 for Cs, are in fair agreement with those derived from ultrasonic measurements of the bulk modulus, but are several percent lower than the corresponding piston-displacement figures.
Genetic Manipulation of Cell Death and Neuroplasticity Pathways in Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) initiates a complex cascade of secondary neurodegenerative mechanisms contributing to cell dysfunction and necrotic and apoptotic cell death. The injured brain responds by activating endogenous reparative processes to counter the neurodegeneration or remodel the brain to enhance functional recovery. A vast array of genetically altered mice provide a unique opportunity to target single genes or proteins to better understand their role in cell death and endogenous repair after TBI. Among the earliest targets for transgenic and knockout studies in TBI have been programmed cell death mediators, such as the Bcl-2 family of proteins, caspases, and caspase-independent pathways. In addition, the role of cell cycle regulatory elements in the posttraumatic cell death pathway has been explored in mouse models. As interest grows in neuroplasticity in TBI, the use of transgenic and knockout mice in studies focused on gliogenesis, neurogenesis, and the balance of growth-promoting and growth-inhibiting molecules has increased in recent years. With proper consideration of potential effects of constitutive gene alteration, traditional transgenic and knockout models can provide valuable insights into TBI pathobiology. Through increasing sophistication of conditional and cell-type specific genetic manipulations, TBI studies in genetically altered mice will be increasingly useful for identification and validation of novel therapeutic targets.
Effect of SiC and graphite particulates on the damping behavior of metal matrix composites

Abstract The effect of SiC and graphite (Gr) particulates on the resultant damping behavior of 6061 A1 metal matrix composites (MMCs) was investigated in an effort to develop a high damping material. The MMCs were processed by a spray atomization and deposition technique and the damping characterization was conducted on a dynamic mechanical thermal analyzer. The damping capacity, as well as the dynamic modulus, was measured at frequencies of 0.1, 1, 10 and 30 Hz over a 30 to 250°C temperature range. The microstructural analysis was performed using scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy and image analysis. The damping capacity of the 6061 Al/SiC and 6061 Al/Gr MMCs, with two different volume fractions of reinforcements, were compared with that of as-received 6061-T6 Al and spray deposited 6061 Al. It was shown that the damping capacity of 6061 Al could be significantly improved by the addition of either SiC or graphite particulates through spray deposition processing. Finally, the operative damping mechanisms were discussed in light of the data obtained from characterization of microstructure and damping capacity.
Inhibition by 1-β-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine of the incorporation of N-Acetylneuraminic acid into glycolipids and glycoproteins of hamster embryo cells

Abstract 1-β-D-Arabinofuranosylcytosine which interferes with DNA synthesis in bacteria and mammalian cells and brings about transformation of hamster embryo fibroblasts, has been found to inhibit the incorporation of N-Acetylneuraminic acid into glycolipids and glycoproteins of both normal and transformed hamster embryo cells in tissue culture. Three hours after commencement of treatment (10−3M ara-C), incorporation of [14C] thymidine into DNA was inhibited by 95 per cent, while incorporation of [3H] D-glycosamine (precursor of sialic acid) into glycolipids and glycoproteins was inhibited by 85 per cent. At 24 hours, the inhibition of incorporation of the two labelled components was 83 and 80 per cent respectively. In homogenates of both cell types, incorporation of [14C] N-acetylneuraminic acid was competitively inhibited by ara-CMP. Ara-C was found to have no effect on the incorporation of [14C] choline into phospholipids of cells grown in tissue culture. These results suggest that interference with DNA synthesis by ara-C may not be the only factor involved in cell transformation by this substance.
Tandem mass spectrometry of organophosphate and carbamate pesticides

We present tandem quadrupole mass spectrometric data for 26 organophosphate and 16 carbamate pesticides. These data are of use in developing methods for screening samples for specific compounds (by selected reaction monitoring) or specific classes of compounds (by parent scans and neutral loss scans). Optimization of tandem mass spectrometry conditions for maximum sensitivity is also described.
A simple algebraic cancer equation: calculating how cancers may arise with normal mutation rates

The purpose of this article is to present a relatively easy to understand cancer model where transformation occurs when the first cell, among many at risk within a colon, accumulates a set of driver mutations. The analysis of this model yields a simple algebraic equation, which takes as inputs the number of stem cells, mutation and division rates, and the number of driver mutations, and makes predictions about cancer epidemiology. The equation [p = 1 - (1 - (1 - (1 - u) d ) k ) Nm ] calculates the probability of cancer (p) and contains five parameters: the number of divisions (d), the number of stem cells (N × m), the number of critical rate-limiting pathway driver mutations (k), and the mutation rate (u). In this model progression to cancer "starts" at conception and mutations accumulate with cell division. Transformation occurs when a critical number of rate-limiting pathway mutations first accumulates within a single stem cell. When applied to several colorectal cancer data sets, parameter values consistent with crypt stem cell biology and normal mutation rates were able to match the increase in cancer with aging, and the mutation frequencies found in cancer genomes. The equation can help explain how cancer risks may vary with age, height, germline mutations, and aspirin use. APC mutations may shorten pathways to cancer by effectively increasing the numbers of stem cells at risk. The equation illustrates that age-related increases in cancer frequencies may result from relatively normal division and mutation rates. Although this equation does not encompass all of the known complexity of cancer, it may be useful, especially in a teaching setting, to help illustrate relationships between small and large cancer features.
Malolactic fermentation by Streptococcus mutans

Streptococcus mutans and certain other oral lactic-acid bacteria were found to have the ability to carry out malolactic fermentation involving decarboxylation of l-malate to yield l-lactic acid and concomitant reduction in acidity. The activity was inducible by l-malate in S. mutans UA159 growing in suspensions or biofilms. The optimal pH for the fermentation was c. 4.0 for both suspensions and biofilms, although the pH optimum for malolactic enzyme in permeabilized cells of S. mutans UA159 was close to 5.5. Although malate did not serve as a catabolite for growth of S. mutans, it did serve to protect the organism against acid killing and to maintain ATP pool levels during starvation. Alkalinization associated with malolactic fermentation resulted in pH rise or increased need to add standardized HCl solution to maintain a set pH value in pH-stat experiments. The net conclusion is that malate has the potential to be effective for alkalinization of dental plaque, although the fermentation is sensitive to fluoride and triclosan, which are commonly added to oral care products.
Spatio-temporal dynamics of online memes: a study of geo-tagged tweets

We conduct a study of the spatio-temporal dynamics of Twitter hashtags through a sample of 2 billion geo-tagged tweets. In our analysis, we (i) examine the impact of location, time, and distance on the adoption of hashtags, which is important for understanding meme diffusion and information propagation; (ii) examine the spatial propagation of hashtags through their focus, entropy, and spread; and (iii) present two methods that leverage the spatio-temporal propagation of hashtags to characterize locations. Based on this study, we find that although hashtags are a global phenomenon, the physical distance between locations is a strong constraint on the adoption of hashtags, both in terms of the hashtags shared between locations and in the timing of when these hashtags are adopted. We find both spatial and temporal locality as most hashtags spread over small geographical areas but at high speeds. We also find that hashtags are mostly a local phenomenon with long-tailed life spans. These (and other) findings have important implications for a variety of systems and applications, including targeted advertising, location-based services, social media search, and content delivery networks.
Emergency department visits by older adults for motor vehicle collisions.

Results: From 2003–2007, there were an average of 237,000 annual ED visits by older adults for MVCs. The annual ED visit rate for MVCs was 6.4 (95% CI 4.6-8.3) visits per 1,000 for older adults and 16.4 (95% CI 14.0-18.8) visits per 1,000 for younger adults. Compared to younger MVC patients, after adjustment for gender, race and ethnicity, older MVC patients were more likely to have at least one imaging study performed (OR 3.69, 95% CI 1.46-9.36). Older MVC patients were not significantly more likely to arrive by ambulance (OR 1.47; 95% CI 0.76–2.86), have a high triage acuity (OR 1.56; 95% CI 0.77-3.14), or to have a diagnosis of a head, spinal cord or torso injury (OR 0.97; 95% CI 0.42-2.23) as compared to younger MVC patients after adjustment for gender, race and ethnicity. Overall, 14.5% (95% CI 9.8-19.2) of older MVC patients and 6.1% (95% CI 4.8-7.5) of younger MVC patients were admitted to the hospital. There was also a nonstatistically significant trend toward hospital admission for older versus younger MVC patients (OR 1.78; 95% CI 0.71-4.43), and admission to the ICU if hospitalized (OR 6.9, 95% CI 0.9-51.9), after adjustment for gender, race, ethnicity, and injury acuity. Markers of injury acuity studied included EMS arrival, high triage acuity category, ED imaging, and diagnosis of a head, spinal cord or internal injury. Conclusion: Although ED visits after MVC for older adults are less common per capita, older adults are more commonly admitted to the hospital and ICU. Older MVC victims require significant ED resources in terms of diagnostic imaging as compared to younger MVC patients. As the U.S.