cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Die Ausschaltung thorakoabdominaler Aortenaneurysmen

Mangeldurchblutung bzw. Ischamie der Viszeralorgane, des Ruckenmarks und der unteren Extremitaten haben bei der Ausschaltung thorakoabdominaler Aortenaneurysmen (TAA) einen erheblichen Einfluss auf die Morbiditat und Mortalitat. Deshalb ist es von entscheidender Bedeutung, eine Operationsstrategie zu entwickeln, die die Ischamiezeit der lebenswichtigen Organe minimiert. Im Verlauf der Geschichte wurden unterschiedliche Konzepte der extrakorporalen Zirkulation entwickelt, die sich teilweise nur minimal, teilweise aber auch erheblich voneinander unterschieden. Alle Methoden haben jedoch zum Ziel, die Gefahr einer potenziellen Organischamie im Rahmen einer solch komplizierten aortalen Rekonstruktion zu minimieren. Im Vergleich zu anderen Techniken, etwa der traditionellen Clamp-and-Sew-Technik, sind bei der dreilumigen/zweiteiligen Prothesentechnik die viszeralen und renalen Ischamiezeiten bedeutend kurzer. Unsere Erfahrungen mit dieser Methode zeigen, dass auch die kompliziertesten thorakoabdominalen Aortenrekonstruktionen unter kontrollierten Bedingungen mit nur wenigen Hilfsmitteln und einer deutlich reduzierten viszeralen-, renalen-, spinalen- sowie peripheren Ischamiezeit durchgefuhrt werden konnen.
Progressive structural changes of Avicel, bleached softwood, and bacterial cellulose during enzymatic hydrolysis

A comprehensive picture of structural changes of cellulosic biomass during enzymatic hydrolysis is essential for a better understanding of enzymatic actions and development of more efficient enzymes. In this study, a suite of analytical techniques including sum frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopy, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD), and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were employed for lignin-free model biomass samples--Avicel, bleached softwood, and bacterial cellulose--to find correlations between the decrease in hydrolysis rate over time and the structural or chemical changes of biomass during the hydrolysis reaction. The results showed that the decrease in hydrolysis rate over time appears to correlate with the irreversible deposition of non-cellulosic species (either reaction side products or denatured enzymes, or both) on the cellulosic substrate surface. The crystallinity, degree of polymerization, and meso-scale packing of cellulose do not seem to positively correlate with the decrease in hydrolysis rate observed for all three substrates tested in this study. It was also found that the cellulose Iα component of the bacterial cellulose is preferentially hydrolyzed by the enzyme than the cellulose Iβ component.
Epidemiology Survey and Analysis of Echinococcosis Sufferers in Cases County,Sichuan

Objective To understand the characteristics of human echinococcosis in Songpan County,Sichuan Province,and provide the scientific basis for treatment.Methods The blood serum samples from 1029 students under 12 years old in Songpan County and 750 adults were tested by type-B ultrasonic respectively.Results The total serological positive rate of echinococcosis was 13.51 %.The positive rates of type-B ultrasonic was 1.33%.Conclusion The infection rate of echinococcosis in Songpan county was relatively high and should take actions to control it.
Respiratory syncytial virus disease is mediated by age-variable IL-33 and innate lymphoid cells (INC1P.347)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of infant hospitalizations and represents an enormous health burden worldwide. Severe RSV infections are a significant risk factor for childhood asthma, but the pathogenic mechanisms responsible for RSV induced airway disease remain elusive. We and others have shown that age at time of initial infection is a crucial determinant of RSV immunopathogenesis (i.e., Th2 inflammation, eosinophilia, airway hyperresponsiveness, mucus). Using an age-appropriate mouse model of RSV that phenotypically recapitulates severe Th2-biased RSV seen in human infants, we show that this age-related disparity in immunopathogenesis is related to enhanced IL-33 production and increased group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) in lungs of neonatal mice compared to adult mice. In nasal aspirates from RSV-infected human infants, IL-33 was elevated in the youngest of patients which further indicates age-variable regulation in response to RSV infection. These data provide a previously unknown mechanism involving ILC2s and IL-33 in RSV mediated human asthma, and represent the first evidence of differential ILC2/IL-33 regulation with respect to very early age.
Effects of 1,4-DCB on lipid peroxidation and antioxidants in mice

Objective: To evaluate the oxidative stress induced by subacute exposure to 1.4-dichlorobenzene(p-DCB) in mice.Methods: Thirty-six Kunming mice randomly divided into 3 groups, 0(solvent control),450,900 mg p-DCB/kg b.w.p-DCB was administrated via garage,once a day for continuous 7 days.After One week,the level of GSH,SOD,MDA in the liver and kidney of mice were determined. Results: There is no significant difference on body weight among all treatment groups and control group.The kidney/body weight ratios of all treatment groups were increased significantly compared with control group.The activity of SOD in liver and kieney of all treatment groups were not significant compared with control group.The level of GSH in mice kidney in high dosage group decreased significantly compared with that of low dose groups.However there were no significance of the level of GSH in liver of three treatment groups;compared with control and low dose groups,the level of MDA in mice liver and kidney in high dose group were increased significantly and with dose-dependently. Conclusion: Induction of oxidative stress may play a key role in the toxic action of p-DCB.
Neural correlates for roughness choice in monkey second somatosensory cortex (SII).

This experiment explored the relationship between neural firing patterns in second somatosensory cortex (SII) and decisions about roughness of tactile gratings. Neural and behavioral data were acqu...
Major depression and anxiety disorders associated with norplant

Background : Norplant is a relatively new long-acting subdermal implant system that is used widely for contraception. In a recent report, Wagner and Berenson described two cases of Norplant-associated major depression and panic disorder. These were the first reports of severe psychiatric disorders linked to the use of Norplant. Method : Five cases are described of women who developed major depression, two of whom also developed obsessive-compulsive disorder and one of whom also developed agoraphobia, while using the Norplant system. Results : These women who had no prior psychiatric history developed major depression within 1 to 3 months after Norplant insertion. The depression worsened over time and in all cases resolved within 1 to 2 months after Norplant removal. There was no recurrence of depression after 7 to 8 months in four cases available for follow-up. In addition to major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder developed in two women and symptoms of agoraphobia developed in one woman during Norplant treatment, which resolved after Norplant removal. Conclusion : These cases provide further support for the association between Norplant and major depression, as well as a broad spectrum of anxiety disorders. It is important to design prospective studies to carefully examine the incidence of major depression and anxiety disorders in women who use Norplant. Risk factors for these disorders require further clarification.
Dietary saturated fat and monounsaturated fat have reversible effects on brain function and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in young women.

Abstract Background Previous literature suggests that a higher ratio of palmitic acid (PA)/oleic acid (OA) in the diet induces inflammation, which may result in deficient brain insulin signaling, and, secondarily, impaired physical activity, sleep efficiency, and cognitive functioning. Objective We hypothesized that lowering the typical dietary PA/OA would affect the activation of relevant brain networks during a working memory task and would also lower secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Design In 12 female subjects participating in a randomized, cross-over trial comparing 3-week high PA diet (HPA) and low PA and a high OA diet (HOA), we evaluated functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) using an N-back test of working memory, cytokine secretion by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), and plasma cytokine concentrations. Results Brain activation during the HPA diet compared to the HOA diet was increased in regions of the basal ganglia including the caudate and putamen ( p p = 0.04) and IL-1β ( p = 0.05) were higher, and there was a higher secretion of IL-18 ( p = 0.015) and a trend for higher IL-1β secretion ( p = 0.066) from LPS-stimulated PBMCs. Conclusions The HPA diet resulted in increased brain activation in the basal ganglia compared to the HOA diet as well as increased secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These data provide evidence that short-term (2 week) diet interventions impact brain network activation during a working memory task and that these effects are reversible since the order of the study diets was randomized. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that lowering the dietary PA content via substitution with OA also could affect cognition.
Chirurgie der HI

Die chirurgische Therapie der HI kann als organerhaltende oder als Herzersatz-Therapie durchgefuhrt werden. Insbesondere bei den organerhaltenden Eingriffen konnten in den vergangenen Jahren durch die Aneurysma- und Mitralklappen-Chirurgie (s. u.), sowie die Hochrisiko-Bypass-Chirurgie und durch elektrostimulatorische Verfahren (siehe Kapitel 5) erhebliche Fortschritte erzielt werden.
Independent music production: how individuality, technology and creative entrepreneurship influence contemporary music industry practices

ABSTRACTIndependent music production, often viewed as a niche-driven and genre-specific practice restricted to isolated and fragmented communities lacking financial and technological resources, generates a wealth of creative work and opportunities for entrepreneurship. Independent producers, artists and musicians refine their recording and promotion skills through intense dedication, creative marketing and a deep want to connect their personal ideologies with a global audience. The modest project studio, a source of creative inspiration, and cultural study, exert a powerful influence through its accessibility, simple functionality and connectivity to the Internet. The author examines some of the multifaceted cultural, ideological, technical and entrepreneurial factors contributing to a significant evolution in do it yourself (DIY) music production and distribution. The rise of this independent ‘recording class’ anticipates the many changes in the contemporary music industry and offers new production and c...
Introduction to Remodeling and Repair in Respiratory Diseases

T his special issue of CHEST is a compilation of articles provided by the speakers at a recent meeting organized by the Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute. The meeting, which focused on “Remodeling and Repair in Respiratory Diseases,” was held at the historic La Fonda Hotel in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on October 14–17, 2001. Despite concerns about travel resulting from the terrorist acts on September 11, 2001, the meeting was attended by over 150 scientists from 12 countries. Respiratory diseases account for one death in four in the United States. Unlike many other high-impact diseases, such as heart disease and cancer, the incidence of many respiratory diseases, such as asthma and COPD, is increasing. Environmental factors are thought to be involved in many of these diseases, but except for the obvious impact of cigarette smoking, the exact factors and their mechanisms of action are still largely unknown. Although some progress has been made in treating these disorders, therapy is largely still supportive. Little is known about the processes responsible for the remodeling involved in the physiologic changes, nor do we know much about mechanisms that could be stimulated to effect repair of the damage. This meeting focused on the structural changes and their functional consequences as they occur in ARDS, asthma, pulmonary hypertension, fibrosis, neonatal diseases, and COPD. Each session of the symposium featured invited presentations by experts in their respective fields, complemented by poster presentations contributed in response to a call for abstracts. This meeting was the fourth in a series sponsored by Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute. The topic of the 2002 meeting was “Molecular Approaches to the Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Diseases,” held at the same location on October 13–16, 2002. More information is available at the symposium website: www. lovelace-symposium.org. Quantitative Assessment of Airway Remodeling Using High-Resolution CT*
Visualization of atherosclerotic plaques using targeted molecular imaging

1875 Learning Objectives To review characteristics of atherosclerosis at molecular and cellular level To review targeted agents for detecting atherosclerosis at molecular level using different imaging modalities Atherosclerosis is the main cause of mortality and morbidity around the world. This disorder is an inflammatory process that begins with endothelial damage and accumulation of inflammatory cells. After macrophages infiltrate the vessel walls, they start to accumulate lipoproteins and become foam cells. Lymphocytes are other group of inflammatory cells which may be seen in these plaques. In addition to inflammatory cells, atherosclerosis plaques may contain other structures such as micro-vessels, molecules such as fibrins and cells such as fibrous cap, smooth muscles and calcifying cells. Early detection of atherosclerosis lesions is a major challenge in the medicine. Molecular imaging is a developing modality capable of visualizing the atherosclerotic plaques at early stages. In this imaging modality, diagnostic agents attach to plaques and allow early detection of lesions at sub-structural level. This imaging modality helps to diagnose the atherosclerotoc lesions before patients show symptoms and develop problems. In this educational exhibit we will review molecular targets and probes of atherosclerosis detection in different imaging modalities: 1) Molecular and cellular characteristics of atherosclerosis 2) Ultrasound probes for: - Adhesion molecules - Gylcoproteins - Integrins 3) MRI probes for: - Adhesion Molecules - Fibrin - Pro-inflammatory enzymes (myeloperoxidase) - Integrins - Lipoproteins - Apoptosis/Necrosis - Macrophages - CT probes for: - Calcification - Macrophages 4) Nuclear imaging (PET and SPECT) tracers for: - Glucose metabolism - Fatty acid synthesis - Membrane metabolism - Ca2+hydroxyapatite - Integrin αvβ3 receptor - LDL receptors - Natriuretic peptide clearance receptors - VCAM-1 - Macrophages - Platelets 5) Other targeting imaging modalities including: - Bioluminescence Imaging - Photoacoustic Imaging - Fluorescence imaging
The Solving Problems in Everyday Living Model: Toward a Demedicalized, Education-Based Approach to “Mental Health”:

We argue that human existential pain and threat may usefully be helped by a noncoercive educational approach that also resonates with many interpersonally focused psychological approaches, rather t...
Prediction and Prevention of Preterm Birth

Preterm birth is defined as delivery between 20 and 37 weeks gestation. Neonatal mortality and short- and long-term morbidity are significant complications of preterm birth. Preterm birth can be spontaneous or iatrogenic. Gestational ages are the most significant prognostic predictor of fetal outcomes [1].
Scaling Up and Tailoring the "Putting Public Health in Action" Training Curriculum

Despite access to a growing menu of evidence-based interventions, public health practitioners continue to underuse them, in part because practitioners may require new knowledge, skills, and resources to do so. Numerous foundations, universities, governmental agencies, and consultants are providing trainings to address the gaps in practitioners' capacity. To most significantly affect population health, these trainings need to reach practitioners who may have limited access to on-site trainings. Despite the number of organizations offering trainings, little is known about how to scale up trainings to efficiently extend their reach or how to tailor trainings to the needs of different intervention. The Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network and its collaborating centers have developed a training curriculum and delivered it in both in-person and distance formats to a range of audiences. The purpose of this article is to describe the training curriculum and findings from the Network's evaluation of approaches used to scale up delivery of the "Putting Public Health Evidence in Action" curriculum and tailor content for specific evidence-based interventions.
The effects of skeletal asymmetry on interpreting biologic variation and taphonomy in the fossil record

Biologic asymmetry is present in all bilaterally symmetric organisms as a result of normal developmental instability. However, fossilized organisms, which have undergone distortion due to burial, may have additional asymmetry as a result of taphonomic processes. To investigate this issue, we evaluated the magnitude of shape variation resulting from taphonomy on vertebrate bone using a novel application of fluctuating asymmetry. We quantified the amount of total variance attributed to asymmetry in a taphonomically distorted fossil taxon and compared it with that of three extant taxa. The fossil taxon had an average of 27% higher asymmetry than the extant taxa. In spite of the high amount of taphonomic input, the major axes of shape variation were not greatly altered by removal of the asymmetric component of shape variation. This presents the possibility that either underlying biologic trends drive the principal directions of shape change irrespective of asymmetric taphonomic distortion or that the symmetric taphonomic component is large enough that removing only the asymmetric component is inadequate to restore fossil shape. Our study is the first to present quantitative data on the relative magnitude of taphonomic shape change and presents a new method to further explore how taphonomic processes impact our interpretation of the fossil record.
Are We Still Going Through the Empty Ritual of Participation? Inner-City Residents’ and Other Grassroots Stakeholders’ Perceptions of Public Input and Neighborhood Revitalization:

This article revisits Arnstein’s “ladder of citizen participation” focusing on inner-city residents’ perceptions of public input in neighborhood revitalization projects. It draws from data collecte...
Reflections on the Doctrinal and Big-Picture Issues Raised by the Constitutional Challenges to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare)

The challenges to the federal healthcare statute making their way to the Supreme Court appear to suffer from a problematic blend of doctrinal hypertechnicality, theoretical imprecision, and (an understandable but misplaced) fear of an all-powerful Congress. None of this is to say it will be impossible for any of these challenges ultimately to succeed. Instead, it is to say that any such success would either be revolutionary (in the way that Justice Clarence Thomas's desire to return to nineteenth century cases concerning the scope of federal power would, if implemented, completely upend the current constitutional convention), or it would be tailored to reach a particular result on a particular contentious issue (in the way Bush v. Gore is considered by many to be a ruling good for only one day and one election.) In particular, the challengers make a number of untenable moves. They mistake novelty for constitutionality. They also overstate the novelty of the so-called mandate provision of the healthcare law, when it is properly viewed in constitutional context. Importantly, the word "regulate" (used in the Commerce Clause) does not presuppose preexisting activity as it is used elsewhere in the Constitution. Moreover, Congress could easily have satisfied any activity requirement by including a jurisdictional element in the law or styling it in terms of anti-discrimination. Importantly, no practical or theoretical values would be served by making Congress go through these drafting hoops; the claim that an activity requirement is necessary or helpful to protect Tenth Amendment principles does not hold up to close scrutiny. Congress mandated purchase of healthcare for plausible economic reasons and reasons that do not violate any constitutional anti-commandeering/anti-instrumentalization principles. Finally, there is no requirement that Congress label a tax as such to have the power to impose one.
FEAR OF FAILURE AND ENTREPRENEURIAL RISK PERCEPTION: Nefzi, N. (2018). Fear of failure and entrepreneurial risk perception. International Journal of Entrepreneurial Knowledge, 6(2), 45-58. Doi : 10.2478/IJEK-2018-0013

The present study provides an understanding of the role of fear of failure in entrepreneurial decision making by examining the mediating role of appraisal dimensions through the study of the impact of fear (state and trait) on entrepreneurial risk perception and using the cognitive-motivational-relational process and the Appraisal Tendencies Framework as based theories. Using a sample of students, we confirmed that trait fear is significantly related with higher entrepreneurial risk perception and this relation is mediated by cognitive appraisal dimensions especially the certainty theme. The same relationship is not confirmed for the state fear, even the statistical difference between students in entrepreneurial risk perception due to state fear condition.
Loboratory diagnosis and preliminary viral sequence analysis of the first case of human infection with avian influenza A (H5N6) virus in Fujian province

Objective To provide effective reference of laboratory detection and prevention-control in avian influenza epidemic via analyzing the detection result of the first case infected avian influenza H5N6 virus in Fujian province. Methods The viral RNA was extracted from the patient’s throat swab and specimens of surrounding environment, and detected by real-time RT-PCR. The gene sequences of HA and NA gene segments were obtained by RT-PCR and sequencing, the evolution characteristics of the virus were elementarily analyzed by bioinformatics. Results The avian influenza H5N6 virus was confirmed from the patient’s throat swab, termed influenza A/Fujian-Sanyuan/21099/2017(H5N6)virus. The throat swabs of case from 5 different time points were collected and the H5N6 nucleic acid were detected from the first three times collection. Among 43 specimens of surrounding environment, there were 16 H5 virus samples. The HA and NA gene segments of A/Fujian-Sanyuan/21099/2017 were closely related to A/Cygnus atratus/Hubei/2Z2-O/2016(H5N8) and A/chicken/Hubei/ZYSJF16/2016(H5N6), with a similarity of 99.6% and 99.0% respectively. The cleavage site of HA gene contained multiple basic amino acids. Conclusions The suspected case was the first case infected with avian influenza H5N6 virus in Fujian province, and the HA and NA genes of virus were highly similar to those of H5N8 and H5N6 virus respectively. Key words: Human infected avian influenza H5N6 virus; Laboratory detection; Hemagglutinin and neuraminidase; Phylogenetic tree
Microstructure homogenization of concrete used in nuclear power plants

Abstract Nearly all nuclear power plants in the United States are operating past their intended lifetimes or are requesting lifetime extensions. Therefore, understanding changes to the concrete containment structure over time is crucial to evaluate the structure’s continued viability. Concrete materials are heterogeneous particulate composites that exhibit viscoelastic material properties, which can lead to slow deformation over time, causing stress redistribution and the potential for creep cracking. A code to generate random, three dimensional (3D) concrete microstructures has been developed and paired with finite element analysis to predict the long-term viscoelastic properties of concrete. Data from these simulations are used to develop constitutive equations for the viscoelastic behavior of the homogenized concrete. The codes in this work are used to virtualize laboratory experiments, to obtain long-term creep data in a faster, cheaper manner. To validate this work, the simulated creep behavior of concrete is compared to 800 d of experimental data that has been extended to 27 y of data using the Time-Temperature superposition (TTS) principal. Excellent agreement between the simulation results and experimental data is seen.
Sampling Kaczmarz-Motzkin method for linear feasibility problems: generalization and acceleration

Randomized Kaczmarz, Motzkin Method and Sampling Kaczmarz Motzkin (SKM) algorithms are commonly used iterative techniques for solving a system of linear inequalities (i.e., $$Ax \le b$$ ). As linear systems of equations represent a modeling paradigm for solving many optimization problems, these randomized and iterative techniques are gaining popularity among researchers in different domains. In this work, we propose a Generalized Sampling Kaczmarz Motzkin (GSKM) method that unifies the iterative methods into a single framework. In addition to the general framework, we propose a Nesterov-type acceleration scheme in the SKM method called Probably Accelerated Sampling Kaczmarz Motzkin (PASKM). We prove the convergence theorems for both GSKM and PASKM algorithms in the $$L_2$$ norm perspective with respect to the proposed sampling distribution. Furthermore, we prove sub-linear convergence for the Cesaro average of iterates for the proposed GSKM and PASKM algorithms. From the convergence theorem of the GSKM algorithm, we find the convergence results of several well-known algorithms like the Kaczmarz method, Motzkin method and SKM algorithm. We perform thorough numerical experiments using both randomly generated and real-world (classification with support vector machine and Netlib LP) test instances to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed methods. We compare the proposed algorithms with SKM, Interior Point Method and Active Set Method in terms of computation time and solution quality. In the majority of the problem instances, the proposed generalized and accelerated algorithms significantly outperform the state-of-the-art methods.
Retinal Ganglion Cell Transplantation: Approaches for Overcoming Challenges to Functional Integration

As part of the central nervous system, mammalian retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) lack significant regenerative capacity. Glaucoma causes progressive and irreversible vision loss by damaging RGCs and their axons, which compose the optic nerve. To functionally restore vision, lost RGCs must be replaced. Despite tremendous advancements in experimental models of optic neuropathy that have elucidated pathways to induce endogenous RGC neuroprotection and axon regeneration, obstacles to achieving functional visual recovery through exogenous RGC transplantation remain. Key challenges include poor graft survival, low donor neuron localization to the host retina, and inadequate dendritogenesis and synaptogenesis with afferent amacrine and bipolar cells. In this review, we summarize the current state of experimental RGC transplantation, and we propose a set of standard approaches to quantifying and reporting experimental outcomes in order to guide a collective effort to advance the field toward functional RGC replacement and optic nerve regeneration.
Mechanistic investigation of redox processes in Zn–MnO2 battery in mild aqueous electrolytes

Zinc–MnO2 based batteries have acquired attention for grid-level applications, due to impressive theoretical performance, cost effectiveness and intrinsic safety. However, there are still many challenges that remain elusive due to the complex and controversial mechanisms of operation that hinder commercialization. In this work, the detailed redox processes that occur at the cathode during Zn–MnO2 battery operation are elucidated. Using a blend of structural and electrochemical techniques, the redox pairs that occur during operation are mechanistically studied while also showcasing the true impact of the electrolyte additive (0.1 M MnSO4) in a 1 M ZnSO4 electrolyte. An electrochemical quartz-crystal microbalance (EQCM) has been leveraged to reveal the effect of zinc hydroxy sulfate salt (Zn4SO4(OH)6·nH2O) and zinc manganese oxide (ZnxMnyOz) dissolution/deposition, which are believed to be major components during discharge and charge conditions. These results provide insight not currently available, allowing a holistic view of the electrochemical reaction mechanisms during battery operation.
The Civil Engineering Challenge

A brief historical resume of the growth and development of civil engineering is given. Statistical comparisons of civil engineering with engineering generally, other professions in general, the gainfully employed labor force, and the U. S. population for the period 1870-1960 have been made. Certain inferences of vital concern to civil engineering and civil engineers are drawn.
Constructive induction in knowledge-based neural networks

Artificial neural networks have proven to be a successful, general method for inductive learning from examples. However, they have not often been viewed in terms of constructive induction. We describe a method for using a knowledge-based neural network of the kind created by the KBANN algorithm as the basis of a system for constructive induction. After training, we extract two types of rules from a network: modified versions of the rules initially provided to the knowledge-based neural network, and rules which describe newly constructed features. Our experiments show that the extracted rules are more accurate, at classifying novel examples, than the trained network from which the rules are extracted.
Multielement mapping of alpha-SiC by scanning Auger microscopy

Fine second-phase particles, numerous in sintered alpha-SiC, were analyzed by scanning Auger microscopy and conventional techniques. The Auger analysis utilized computer-controlled data acquisition, multielement correlation diagrams, and a high spatial resolution of 100 nm. This procedure enabled construction of false color maps and the detection of fine compositional details within these particles. Carbon, silicon oxide, and boron-rich particles (qualitatively as BN or B4C) predominated. The BN particles, sometimes having a carbon core, are believed to result from reaction between B4C additives and nitrogen sintering atmospheres.
Layered LnBa Co2-xCux O5+δ (0≤x≤1.0) perovskite cathodes for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells

The effects of Cu substitution on the crystal chemistry, thermal and electrical properties, and catalytic activity for the oxygen reduction reaction of the layered LnBaCo 2―x Cu x O 5+δ (Ln = Nd and Gd, and 0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) perovskite have been investigated. The LnBaCo 1.0 Cu 1.0 O 5+δ compositions exhibit thermal expansion coefficients (TEC) of 16.4 × 10 ―6 °C ―1 for Ln = Nd and 14.5 × 10 ―6 °C ―1 for Ln = Gd in the range of 80―900°C. The LnBaCo 2―x Cu x O 5+δ (x = 0.75 for Ln = Nd and x = 1.0 for Ln = Gd) cathodes exhibit low polarization resistance and fuel cell performance comparable to that of the well-known La 1―x Sr x CoO 3―δ perovskite cathodes, but with an important advantage of lower TEC. The better performance of these Cu-substituted samples is partly due to the improved chemical stability with the La 0.8 Sr 0.2 Ga 0.8 Mg 0.2 O 2.8 electrolyte at high temperatures (Ln = Gd) and a better matching of the TEC value with those of the standard electrolytes. With an electrolyte-supported single cell configuration (thickness = 0.50 mm), NdBaCo 1.25 Cu 0.75 O 5+δ and GdBaCo 1.0 Cu 1.0 O 5+δ exhibit higher maximum power densities of, respectively, 772 and 634 mW cm ―2 at 800°C compared to that of the Cu-free (x = 0) sample (658 and 595 mW cm ―2 ).
Dermatan Sulfate Interacts with Dead Cells and Regulates CD5+ B-Cell Fate: Implications for a Key Role in Autoimmunity

CD5 + (B-1a) B cells play pivotal roles in autoimmunity through expression of autoreactive B-cell receptors and production of autoantibodies. The mechanism underlying their positive selection and expansion is currently unknown. This study demonstrates that dermatan sulfate (DS) expands the B-1a cell population and augments the specific antibody response to an antigen when it is in complex with DS. DS displays preferential affinity for apoptotic and dead cells, and DS-stimulated cell cultures produce antibodies to various known autoantigens. The companion article further illustrates that autoantigens can be identified by affinity to DS, suggesting that molecules with affinity to DS have a high propensity to become autoantigens. We thus propose that the association of antigens from dead cells with DS is a possible origin of autoantigens and that autoreactive B-1a cells are positively selected and expanded by DS∙autoantigen complexes. This mechanism may also explain the clonal expansion of B-1a cells in certain B-cell malignancies.
Cumulative Chemical Exposures During Pregnancy and Early Development

Industrial and consumer product chemicals are widely used, leading to ubiquitous human exposure to the most common classes. Because these chemicals may affect developmental milestones, exposures in pregnant women and developing fetuses are of particular interest. In this review, we discuss the prevalence of chemical exposures in pregnant women, the chemical class-specific relationships between maternal and fetal exposures, and the major sources of exposures for six chemical classes of concern: phthalates, phenols, perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), flame retardants, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and organochlorine pesticides (OCs). Additionally, we describe the current efforts to characterize cumulative exposures to synthetic chemicals during pregnancy. We conclude by highlighting gaps in the literature and discussing possible applications of the findings to reduce the prevalence of cumulative exposures during pregnancy.
Effects of site-specific infusions of methionine sulfoximine on the temporal progression of seizures in a rat model of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy

Summary Glutamine synthetase (GS) in astrocytes is critical for metabolism of glutamate and ammonia in the brain, and perturbations in the anatomical distribution and activity of the enzyme are likely to adversely affect synaptic transmission. GS is deficient in discrete regions of the hippocampal formation in patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE), a disorder characterized by brain glutamate excess and recurrent seizures. To investigate the role of site-specific inhibition of GS in MTLE, we chronically infused the GS inhibitor methionine sulfoximine (MSO) into one of the following areas of adult laboratory rats: (1) the angular bundle, n = 6; (2) the deep entorhinal cortex (EC), n = 7; (3) the stratum lacunosum-moleculare of CA1, n = 7; (4) the molecular layer of the subiculum, n = 10; (5) the hilus of the dentate gyrus, n = 6; and (6) the lateral ventricle, n = 6. Twelve animals were infused with phosphate buffered saline (PBS) into the same areas to serve as controls. All infusions were unilateral, and animals were monitored by continuous video-intracranial EEG recordings for 3 weeks to capture seizure activity. All animals infused with MSO into the entorhinal–hippocampal area exhibited recurrent seizures that were particularly frequent during the first 3 days of infusion and that continued to recur for the entire 3 week recording period. Only a fraction of animals infused with MSO into the lateral ventricle had recurrent seizures, which occurred at a lower frequency compared with the other MSO infused group. Infusion of MSO into the hilus of the dentate gyrus resulted in the highest total number of seizures over the 3-week recording period. Infusion of MSO into all brain regions studied, with the exception of the lateral ventricle, led to a change in the composition of seizure severity over time. Low-grade (stages 1–3) seizures were more prevalent early during infusion, while severe (stages 4–5) seizures were more prevalent later. Thus, the site of GS inhibition within the brain determines the pattern and temporal evolution of recurrent seizures in the MSO model of MTLE.
Empowerment theory and long-living women: A feminist and disability perspective

Abstract Empowerment theory is central to social work and to feminist gerontology. Yet an emphasis on increasing power and control over the circumstances of one's life does not neatly “fit” the involuntary bodily realities that figure centrally in the experiences of late age. The project of this article is to argue that the paradox of late life empowerment is that it requires acceptance and affirmation of the weak, suffering, and uncontrollable body.
Acoustic scattering from two parallel soft cylinders

The scattered field due to two parallel circular cylinders illuminated by a plane wave is formulated in terms of outgoing cylindrical waves emanating from each cylinder. Dirichlet boundary conditions are enforced on each cylindrical surface. Graf's addition theorem for cylindrical harmonics makes possible the closed-form evaluation of the coefficients in two infinite, coupled sets of linear equations for the unknown modal coefficients. Resultant far scattered fields in the frequency domain are graphed for several geometries and plane wave incidence angles. The effects of coupling between cylinders are studied via a comparison between far-field scatter computed by this accurate method and a noninteracting sum of the isolated cylinder responses. >
The Hydroxide-Initiated Cleavage of α-Diketone Monothioketals

Abstract Recently we reported a presumed nucleophile induced carbon-carbon bond cleavage of α-diketone monothioketals to give thioketal-carboxylates.1 At the time we envisioned this cleavage reaction as proceeding along the following lines (Scheme I).
A complicated case of aortoduodenal fistula

Aortoduodenal fistula may occur primarily as a complication of abdominal aortic aneurysm or secondarily after reconstructive surgery of the abdominal aorta. The clinical presentation may be occult, with the classic triad of mass, pain, and bleeding inapparent or overshadowed by signs of infection. A high index of clinical suspicion combined with radiographic and endoscopic examinations will establish the diagnosis.
Hfr‐2, a wheat cytolytic toxin‐like gene, is up‐regulated by virulent Hessian fly larval feeding‡

SUMMARY Both yield and grain-quality are dramatically decreased when susceptible wheat (Triticum aestivum) plants are infested by Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor) larvae. Examination of the changes in wheat gene expression during infestation by virulent Hessian fly larvae has identified the up-regulation of a gene, Hessian fly responsive-2 (Hfr-2), which contains regions similar to genes encoding seed-specific agglutinin proteins from Amaranthus. Hfr-2, however, did not accumulate in developing seeds, as do other wheat seed storage proteins. Additionally, a separate region of the HFR-2 predicted amino acid sequence is similar to haemolytic proteins, from both mushroom and bacteria, that are able to form pores in cell membranes of mammalian red blood cells. The involvement of Hfr-2 in interactions with insects was supported by experiments demonstrating its up-regulation by both fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and bird cherry-oat aphid (Rhopalosiphum padi) infestations but not by virus infection. Examination of wheat defence response pathways showed Hfr-2 up-regulation following methyl jasmonate treatment and only slight up-regulation in response to salicylic acid, abscisic acid and wounding treatments. Like related proteins, HFR-2 may normally function in defence against certain insects or pathogens. However, we propose that as virulent Hessian fly larvae manipulate the physiology of the susceptible host, the HFR-2 protein inserts in plant cell membranes at the feeding sites and by forming pores provides water, ions and other small nutritive molecules to the developing larvae.
Neonatal progeroid syndrome: more than one disease?

We report on an infant with the neonatal progeroid syndrome whose clinical course and autopsy findings indicate that this may be a heterogeneous phenotype. The infant had intrauterine growth retardation, absence of subcutaneous fat, and a wizened, aged face, all apparently characteristic of the condition, but also had congenital heart defects and urinary reflux not reported in previous cases. An elevated maternal serum alpha fetoprotein was noted at 16 weeks of gestation and lateonset growth retardation appeared after 31 weeks. Autopsy findings showed normal cerebral myelination, in contrast to findings of sudanophilic leukodystrophy in the one patient with the syndrome previously examined at autopsy. These findings suggest that the neonatal progeroid syndrome may be a phenotype and have more than one cause.
More than meets the eye: Implicit perception in legally blind individuals

Abstract Legally blind participants (uncorrected vision of 20/200+) were able to identify a visual stimulus attribute (clock hand position) in the absence of consciously identifying its presence. Specifically, participants—with their corrective lenses removed—correctly guessed the hour-hand position above chance (8%) on a clockface shown on a computer screen. This occurred both when presented in a 1-clockface display (28%), as well as when shown a display containing 4 clockfaces (21%), in which only 1 face contained a hand. Even more striking, hand identification accuracy in the 4-clockface condition was comparable whether the clockface containing the hand was (21%) or was not (20%) correctly identified. That legally blind individuals are capable of identifying stimulus attributes without conscious awareness provides an additional vehicle for exploring implicit perception. Consistent with previous research, the visualsystem can apparently cope with degraded visual input through information available through a(n unconscious) secondary pathway via the superior colliculi.
The algae raceway integrated design for optimal temperature management

Abstract The Algae Raceway Integrated Design (ARID) minimizes diurnal and seasonal temperature fluctuations and maintains temperature within the optimal range, between 15 and 30 °C, during day and night and during all seasons in Tucson, Arizona. The system regulates temperature by adjusting the water surface area and thus regulates the energy transfer to and from the atmosphere and raceway. A temperature model of the raceway was developed and was based on a standardized energy balance model for agricultural crops. The model includes the Penman–Monteith evapotranspiration equation, long wave radiation, short wave radiation, sensible heat transfer (convection) and soil heat flux. The temperature model predicted minimum daily raceway water temperature within 1–2 °C over a range of atmospheric conditions during a 21 day algae growth experiment. Because the model is based on standard agricultural weather station data, it can be used in any location that is in proximity to an agricultural weather station. The model automatically downloads data from any weather station in Arizona, allows specification of various cover and liner conditions, specifies the timing of circulation, and has a dynamic simulation mode.
A web-based geospatial toolkit for the monitoring of dengue fever

Abstract The rapid propagation of vector-borne diseases, such as dengue fever, poses a threat to vulnerable populations, especially those in tropical regions. Prompt space-time analyses are critical elements for accurate outbreak detection and mitigation purposes. Open access web-based geospatial tools are particularly critical in developing countries lacking GIS software and expertise. Currently, online geospatial tools for the monitoring of surveillance data are confined to the mapping of aggregated data. In this paper, we present a web-based geospatial toolkit with a user-friendly interactive interface for the monitoring of dengue fever outbreaks, in space and time. Our geospatial toolkit is designed around the integration of (1) a spatial data management module in which epidemiologists upload spatio-temporal explicit data, (2) an analytical module running an accelerated Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) to map the outbreaks of dengue fever, (3) a spatial database module to extract pairs of disease events close in space and time and (4) a GIS mapping module to visualize space-time linkages of pairs of disease events. We illustrate our approach on a set of dengue fever cases which occurred in Cali (659 geocoded cases), an urban environment in Colombia. Results indicate that dengue fever cases are significantly clustered, but the degree of intensity varies across the city. The design and implementation of the on-line toolkit underscores the benefits of the approach to monitor vector-borne disease outbreaks in a timely manner and at different scales, facilitating the appropriate allocation of resources. The toolkit is designed collaboratively with health epidemiologists and is portable for other surveillance data at the individual level such as crime or traffic accidents.
Isolation and analysis of trienoic and tetraenoic fatty acids with complementary thin layer and gas-liquid chromatography.

Abstract A recently described procedure for the analysis of fatty acid methyl esters through the complementary use of thin layer and gas-liquid chromatography has been further investigated. Conditions necessary for the complete removal of one unsaturation class from another by TLC of the mercury adducts have been worked out. The imporved methodology has been applied to a study of the trienoic and tetraenoic acids of menhaden oil which were shown to be considerably more complex than was heretofore realized. At least 17 trienoic acids were found, including odd-numbered members, containing from 12 to 24 carbon atoms. A minimum of 15 tetraenoic acids was detected, extending over a chain length range similar to that of the trienoic acids, with C 18 and C 20 acids prominent. Analysis of the cholesteryl ester fraction from human blood plasma revealed a much less complicated group of acids.
A free dendritic growth model accommodating curved phase boundaries and high peclet number conditions

A steady-state free dendrite growth model accommodating nonlocal equilibrium tip conditions and curved liquidus and solidus has been developed. The developed model assumes a dendrite tip of a paraboloid of revolution and is applicable to dendrite growth in dilute binary alloys for all values of P c , and reduces to the BCT model for linear liquidus and solidus. The marginal stability criterion of Trivedi and Kurz is shown to apply even in the presence of kinetic undercooling and curved phase boundaries when used with an appropriate concentration-dependent liquidus slope. The model is applied to Sn-Pb alloys to predict the tip velocity, tip radius, solute trapping, and four components of undercooling in the quasi-solutal, solutal-to-thermal transition and quasi-thermal regions.