cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deep-learning convolutional neural network: Inner and outer bladder wall segmentation in CT urography

Purpose We are developing a computerized segmentation tool for the inner and outer bladder wall as a part of an image analysis pipeline for CT urography (CTU). Materials and methods A data set of 172 CTU cases was collected retrospectively with Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval. The data set was randomly split into two independent sets of training (81 cases) and testing (92 cases) which were manually outlined for both the inner and outer wall. We trained a deep-learning convolutional neural network (DL-CNN) to distinguish the bladder wall from the inside and outside of the bladder using neighborhood information. Approximately, 240 000 regions of interest (ROIs) of 16 × 16 pixels in size were extracted from regions in the training cases identified by the manually outlined inner and outer bladder walls to form a training set for the DL-CNN; half of the ROIs were selected to include the bladder wall and the other half were selected to exclude the bladder wall with some of these ROIs being inside the bladder and the rest outside the bladder entirely. The DL-CNN trained on these ROIs was applied to the cases in the test set slice-by-slice to generate a bladder wall likelihood map where the gray level of a given pixel represents the likelihood that a given pixel would belong to the bladder wall. We then used the DL-CNN likelihood map as an energy term in the energy equation of a cascaded level sets method to segment the inner and outer bladder wall. The DL-CNN segmentation with level sets was compared to the three-dimensional (3D) hand-segmented contours as a reference standard. Results For the inner wall contour, the training set achieved the average volume intersection, average volume error, average absolute volume error, and average distance of 90.0 ± 8.7%, -4.2 ± 18.4%, 12.9 ± 13.9%, and 3.0 ± 1.6 mm, respectively. The corresponding values for the test set were 86.9 ± 9.6%, -8.3 ± 37.7%, 18.4 ± 33.8%, and 3.4 ± 1.8 mm, respectively. For the outer wall contour, the training set achieved the values of 93.7 ± 3.9%, -7.8 ± 11.4%, 10.3 ± 9.3%, and 3.0 ± 1.2 mm, respectively. The corresponding values for the test set were 87.5 ± 9.9%, -1.2 ± 20.8%, 11.9 ± 17.0%, and 3.5 ± 2.3 mm, respectively. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that DL-CNN-assisted level sets can effectively segment bladder walls from the inner bladder and outer structures despite a lack of consistent distinctions along the inner wall. However, even with the addition of level sets, the inner and outer walls may still be over-segmented and the DL-CNN-assisted level sets may incorrectly segment parts of the prostate that overlap with the outer bladder wall. The outer wall segmentation was improved compared to our previous method and the DL-CNN-assisted level sets were also able to segment the inner bladder wall with similar performance. This study shows the DL-CNN-assisted level set segmentation tool can effectively segment the inner and outer wall of the bladder.
New Strategy for Weigh-in-Motion Measurement Based on Vibration Sensors

Vibration-based technique has been utilized in various research fields such as measurement and monitoring. Recently, measuring vibration with accelerometers has been employed in weigh-in-motion (WIM)system to deal with the weight evaluation issue and to grantee the traffic safety. However, investigations on weight measurement using vibration sensors are still in its infancy and research phase. To achieve a more accurate measurement, in this paper, firstly the relationship between vibrational quantities and adding loads is demonstrated and an approximate linear result is obtained. Thereafter, in order to overcome the limitations, i.e., low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)of the conventional methods, an enforceable and effective strategy named Periodic Impulse Measurement (PIM)is proposed. Once PIM is implemented, the mature and effective signal processing techniques can be delivered to handle the inevitable noise. Consequently, more accurate measurement results can be achieved.
My Son Is a Night Owl. Can You Help

This case is that of a 14-year-old male who presented to the sleep clinic with daytime somnolence and sleep-onset insomnia which were hindering the child’s day-to-day functioning and performance. Further studies delineated the problem to be delayed sleep phase, after sleep apnea was ruled out. Actigraphy confirmed the diagnosis. Treatment strategies and differential diagnoses are discussed. Namely, treatment involves behavioral modification and keeping consistent schedules, and low-dose melatonin can also be tried. Additionally, the role of light therapy has been discussed. The challenges in correctly identifying and treating this disorder because it is present in adolescents are also touched upon. In summary, this care highlights the common clinical components present in a case of delayed sleep phase. Sleep study helps rule out sleep apnea, an important overlapping disorder which should not be overlooked. Actigraphy objectively confirms the delayed sleep schedule. The treatment which is a combination of behavioral and medical interventions improves adolescent functioning. Delayed sleep phase is mostly prevalent in the adolescent population.
Monitoring, Modeling, and Protecting Against Insulation Failures in the NSTX-U TF Outer Legs

The purpose of the effort described here is to model and monitor the insulation shear bonds between the three conductors of the toroidal field (TF) outer legs. Mechanical failure of the insulation could be a precursor to an electrical failure that could damage the TF inner leg central column, which is more difficult to repair. The shear stress in these bonded layers is proportional to the TF outer-leg out-of-plane (OOP) bending. This is a part of a larger program at National Spherical Tokamak Upgrade to instrument and monitor the structural performance of the machine. Components of the instrumentation plan are shown in this study. Bending of the outer leg due to out-of-plane loads is supported partly by shear in the bond between the three conductors that are bonded together to form the outer leg. Bending stress in the outer conductors provides an indication of the integrity of the shear bond. As a part of the orderly planned increase in operational parameters to 0.8 T (as of Feb 2016 it was at 0.61 T). Ten new FISO gauges were purchased and installed in March 2016. They yielded useful data prior to the forced shut-down due to the failure of PF1aUpper coil. The analytic process used to split out the thermal, in-plane and out-of-plane bending strains is described and compared with the measured results. The measured results provide reasonable benchmarks for the analysis. Ultimately, the main purpose of the instrumentation is to compare coil-to-coil behavior, to watch for consistency. If a coil starts to deviate from the others, the coil can be inspected for possible debonding between the three conductors that make up the outer leg. To properly monitor the full TF system, more channels are needed than Fabry–Perot systems can provide. The planned fiber-Bragg grating (FBG) system is introduced in this paper. Monitoring and evaluation of the TF outer leg strains are also related to computed quantities that are monitored and protected by the digital coil protection system. Currently, the bending strain is expected to be adequately represented by upper–outer leg global moment sums. This relationship is discussed in this paper.
Use of femoral compression device for neck compression in carotid blowout as a temporizing measure to achieve coil sacrifice.

Carotid blowout syndrome (CBS) is a rare complication following resection of head and neck cancers, especially after re-irradiation for a recurrent tumor, and is associated with very high mortality (15–100%).1 Our patient with squamous cell cancer of the tongue had undergone glossectomy and left radical neck dissection, followed by radiation. Six months after radiation, the patient had radiation necrosis of the overlying myofascial muscle flap. The carotid artery did not have any healthy …
Correspondencias sumergidas: latinoamericanismo, performance y archivo en Manuel Ugarte

By focusing on Argentine writer Manuel Ugarte’s 1911-1913 lecture tour, this article explores the reconversion of Latin Americanism from a spiritualist and literature discourse to a performative and spectacular practice, articulated by a militant intellectual for a multitude that listens and watches. In particular, it focuses on the role Ugarte gives to the telegram, a product of undersea cable communication technologies, in the organization of student and worker collectives, meant to reconstitute the idea of Latin America through activism. El destino de un continente (1923), the book in which Ugarte narrates his tour, is read here as a performative archive that allows to formulate an alternative genealogy of Latin Americanism rooted in notions of the body, technology, and affect.
Human antibody immune responses are personalized by selective removal of MHC-II peptide epitopes [preprint]

Summary Human antibody responses are established by the generation of combinatorial sequence diversity in antibody variable domains, followed by iterative rounds of mutation and selection via T cell recognition of antigen peptides presented on MHC-II. Here, we report that MHC-II peptide epitope deletion from B cell receptors (BCRs) correlates with antibody development in vivo. Large-scale antibody sequence analysis and experimental validation of peptide binding revealed that MHC-II epitope removal from BCRs is linked to genetic signatures of T cell help, and donor-specific antibody repertoire modeling demonstrated that somatic hypermutation selectively targets the personalized MHC-II epitopes in antibody variable regions. Mining of class-switched sequences and serum proteomic data revealed that MHC-II epitope deletion is associated with antibody class switching and long-term secretion into serum. These data suggest that the MHC-II peptide epitope content of a BCR is an important determinant of antibody maturation that shapes the composition and durability of humoral immunity. Highlights Antibody somatic hypermutation selectively removes MHC-II peptide epitopes from B cell receptors. Antibodies with lower MHC-II epitope content show evidence of greater T cell help, including class-switching. MHC-II peptide epitope removal from a BCR is linked to long-term antibody secretion in serum. MHC-II genotype provides a personalized selection pressure on human antibody development.
Continuous CDFs and ANOVA with NNS

The following document provides a hands-on tutorial on discrete and continuous CDFs using partial moments and an extension to ANOVA analysis.
The Development of Nanoclay-Epoxy Composite for Application in Ballistic Protection (2009-01-0920)

The objective of this research is to develop protection from high velocity projectile and blast load for commercial passenger automobiles such as VIP cars and the Armored Trucks which collect Cash from Banks and shops. Nano-material reinforced composites offer a good opportunity for developing a high velocity impact and blast protection to the commercial cars and trucks from projectiles and blast loads. These methods can be used for homeland security vehicles also. At first, a modeling, simulation, and design tool for nanocomposites was developed to predict, with accepted fidelity, nano-composite behaviors. Using a unit cell model created for nanoclay-epoxy composites, the effect of nanoparticle distribution on the maximum stress developed in epoxy resin was investigated with the Meshfree Particle Method. The ensemble average of mechanical property for nanoclay-epoxy composite was studied. The increase in the me1chanical property for nanoclay-reinforced epoxy was evidenced from the simulations. It is found that statistical analysis is crucial to predict the performance of nanoparticle reinforced composite. In the second stage, several composite plate samples were fabricated with optimal nanoclayepoxy reinforcement. High velocity impact tests were conducted on the nano-clay-epoxy reinforced plates. It was shown that the plate with nano-composite reinforcement has better impact protection than regular plate. A numerical simulation was conducted to investigate the effect of nano-clay reinforcement on the pure epoxy plates. Efforts have been made to reproduce similar impact protection behavior using the simulation tool in comparing with the actual test results. It was found that higher mechanical properties, such as modulus and strength, will help to improve the performances of composite plate system.
Pulsar Observations and Neutron Star Models

Information about the physical parameters of neutron stars is obtained from pulsar observations. The energy balance of the Crab Nebula and the Vela X remnant allows one to derive limits for the masses of the Crab and Vela pulsars. Glitch observations provide further clues on the masses of these two pulsars. The degree of confidence with which one should believe the derived numbers is pointed out. The possibility of observing neutron stars in binary systems as pulsating X-ray sources is discussed. Finally, the importance of observing redshifted gamma ray lines from the surface of neutron stars, and thus directly measuring either individual or statistical properties of these objects, is pointed out.
Machine Learning for Detection of Trade in Strategic Goods: An Approach to Support Future Customs Enforcement and Outreach

Customs authorities have a critical role in identifying trade in strategic goods that could have an adverse impact on international security. This study proposes a method of using data resampling and the Random Forest machine learning algorithm to model common patterns and characteristics that separate transactions involving strategic goods from broader international trade flows. By embracing advances in machine learning and computing power, customs authorities can leverage existing data to improve enforcement and outreach efforts related to strategic goods subject to international export control regulations.
Managing mood-related symptoms utilizing diet, targeted nutrient supplementation, and lifestyle changes: A case series.

Abstract Background The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion reports that mental health disorders are one of the most “common causes of disability,” affecting 18.1% of adults in the United States. This case series examines the use of diet, targeted nutrient supplementation with a focus on amino acids, and lifestyle interventions for the management of mood-related symptoms as a treatment option. Case Presentations The three cases included a personalized amino acid therapy protocol, nutrient cofactor supplementation, and diet and lifestyle recommendations. Clinical assessment questionnaires completed by the clients at intervals during care were used to determine proper amino acid dosing. The first client is a 65-year-old Caucasian male presenting with increased stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. A marked decrease in symptoms was experienced three months. The second client is a 24-year-old Caucasian male presenting with concentration and memory impairment, anxiety and depression, food cravings leading to binge eating of carbohydrates, low sleep quality, and unsustainable energy. A substantial decrease in symptoms was achieved in under four months. The third client is a 23-year-old Caucasian male presenting with depression, easy agitation while ruminating on negative thoughts, difficulty focusing and making decisions, poor memory, concentration, and sleep quality, gaming addiction, and low energy and motivation. The client experienced considerable relief from all symptoms in under six months. Conclusion The case series demonstrated marked improvement in mood-related symptoms in as little as 3–6 months for three individuals utilizing amino acid therapy along with dietary, targeted nutrient supplementation, and lifestyle choices.
Neuropharmacologic and behavioral actions of clonidine: interactions with central neurotransmitters.

Publisher Summary The discovery of the antipsychotic action of chlorpromazine in the early 1950s and its usage in the treatment of schizophrenia heralded the beginning of modern psychopharmacology. Inquiries into the mechanism of action of this important compound led to the dopamine hypothesis of schizophrenia, a tenet that continues to provide one of the few durable models of brain dysfunction. This chapter focuses on the mechanism(s) by which clonidine produces its prominent pharmacological actions. Clonidine and related drugs may continue to be examined for potential antidementia effects. Despite the disappointing initial results in Alzheimer's patients, clonidine may exhibit beneficial actions in certain categories of human dementia. The possibility that combined treatment with clonidine and physostigmine may produce an added benefit fits with the observation of multiple neurotransmitter alterations in Alzheimer's disease. Several studies indicate that clonidine can inhibit many of the pharmacological effects produced by cholinesterase inhibitors, but this does not imply incompatibility for their use in dementia. A combination of physostigmine and clonidine is required to restore the beneficial effects of central cholinergic stimulation in the lesioned animals.
Electrophysiological Properties of the Mouse Na+/Cl-- Dependent Taurine Transporter (mTauT-1): Steady-State Kinetics

Taurine, one of the most abundant free amino acids found in many cells, is found in millimolar concentrations in the brain, heart, eye and liver1,2. Among the many postulated roles of taurine (such as a neurotransmitter, a cytoprotector and an essential nutrient for the fetal and neonatal brain development), the best understood role is as an osmolyte in the kidney and brain1,2. Na+ and Cl- -dependent transport of taurine have been described in a variety of tissues including kidney, heart, retina, brain and choroid plexus2. Over the last several years, the cDNA encoding the Na+/Cl--dependent taurine transporter has been cloned from rat brain3, mouse brain4, dog MDCK epithelial cells5, human thyroid6, human placental JAR cells7, mouse retina8 and bovine aortic endothelial cells9. The proteins encoded by these clones show high degree of sequence homology at the amino acid level9. The Na+/Cl--dependent taurine transporter belongs to the Na+/Cl-GABA cotransporter family of proteins10. The hallmark of this family of proteins is that they all predicted to contain twelve transmembrane helices crossing the membrane in a zigzag fashion, and both the N- and C-terminal ends are predicted to face the cytoplasm milieu.
Darcy's law predicts widespread forest mortality under climate warming

A hydraulic corollary to Darcy’s law is used to predict the characteristics of plants that will survive during drought in a warmer climate. This indicates that forest trees will need to be shorter and more drought-tolerant to survive in the future.
Jaczko to resign as chair of Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Gregory Jaczko, chair of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), announced on 21 May that he will resign once his successor is appointed. His resignation will end a stormy 3-year chairmanship during which he was accused of bullying NRC staff, lying to Congress, and being too close to the political process. Jaczko formerly served as science advisor to Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.). As NRC chair, Jaczko halted the commission's license application review for storing nuclear waste at Nevada's Yucca Mountain. In addition, during his NRC tenure the commission focused on identifying and implementing lessons from Japan's Fukushima Daiichi reactors damaged by the 2011 tsunami.
Estimation of Illuminant Direction and Intensity of Multiple Light Sources

This paper presents a novel scheme for locating multiple light sources and estimating their intensities from a pair of stereo images of a sphere. No prior knowledge of the location and radius of the sphere is necessary. The sphere surface is not assumed to be a pure Lambertian surface, instead, it has both Lambertian and specular properties. The light source locating algorithm is based on the fact that the Lambertian intensity is not dependent on the direction of viewp oint, while the specular intensity is highly dependent on the direction of the view point. From this fact, we can use a pair of stereo images whose view point changes can be utilized to separate the image of the sphere into two images, one with Lambertian intensities, and the other with specular intensities. The specular image is used to find the directions of the light sources, and then Lambertian image model is used to find the intensities of the light sources. Experiments on both synthetic and real images show that the scheme is successful and robust in finding the directions of the light sources accurately with accurate intensity estimation.
Nonmarket Economic Valuation for Irrigation Water Policy Decisions: Some Methodological Issues

Nonmarket economic valuation can be defined as the analysis of actual and hypothetical human behavior to derive estimates of the economic value (called accounting or shadow prices) of goods and services in situations where market prices are absent or distorted. Due to the prevailing lack of markets for water-related goods and services, accounting prices are an essential component of economic assessment of public water allocation and other policy choices. Both the theory and methods developed by economists for nonmarket valuation have been greatly expanded and improved over the last several decades, and refinement in the field continues. The progress has occurred with the usual scholarly practice of confronting conceptual models with empirical evidence, and revising the former when it conflicts with the latter. Most of the effort towards a nonmarket economic valuation has focused on households’ valuation of environmental public good uses of water, but producers’ uses of water is another important field. For this interdisciplinary audience, my intent here is to discuss some issues regarding nonmarket economic valuation in the context of one of my major professional interests: irrigation water policies (see Young 2005).
Commentary on Bayesian coincidence assessment (cross-matching)

This paper is an invited commentary on Tamas Budavari's pr esentation, "On statistical cross-identification in astronomy," for the Statistical Challenges in Modern Astronomy V conference held at Pennsylvania State University in June 20 11. I begin with a brief review of previous work on probabilistic (Bayesian) assessment ofdirectional and spatio-temporal coincidences in astronomy (e.g., cross-matching or cross- identification of objects across multiple catalogs). Then I discuss an open issue in the recen t innovative work of Budavari and his colleagues on large-scale probabilistic cross-ide ntification: how to assign prior probabilities that play an important role in the analysis. W ith a simple toy problem, I show how Bayesian multilevel modeling (hierarchical Bayes) pro vides a principled framework that justifies and generalizes pragmatic rules of thumb thathave been successfully used by Budavari's team to assign priors. Budavari's paper reviews the key concepts of a recent body o f research by him and his colleagues on Bayesian cross-matching of astronomical object catalogs. When object directions have quantified uncertainties (e.g. , error circles with con- fidence levels), this approach offers significant advantage s over more conventional approaches that attempt to assess directional coincidences using ad hoc statistics (e.g., nearest neighbor angles, counts in cones, χ 2 -based statistics, likelihood ratios) and p-values. In the mid-1990s gamma-ray burst (GRB) astronomers developed es- sentially the same approach for assessing evidence for repetition of GRBs (8, 4, 6), and for association of GRBs with unusual supernovae (5). This work pre-dates the discovery of GRB X-ray afterglows; the available GRB data provided direction es- timates with large uncertainties (5 ◦ to 25 ◦ error circles for directions from BATSE data; many-arc-minute error boxes for interplanetary network direction estimates). Budavari seeks to cross-match optical and UV catalogs that are much larger in size than GRB catalogs, and with much more accurate directions. This is a comple- mentary regime, raising unique challenges for Bayesian cross-matching—especially computational challenges—that Budavari's team is addres sing with innovative tech- niques just briefly touched on in his paper (e.g., see (3, 2, 1, 7)).
Vibrational Circular Dichroism Measurement in the Frequency Range of 800 to 650 cm−1

The development of dispersive instrumentation for the measurement of vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) with a lower frequency limit of ∼650 cm−1 is reported. VCD spectra of 3-methylcyclohexanone, α-pinene, and 3-bromocamphor in the frequency range of 800 to 650 cm−1 are presented to illustrate instrumental performance. The spectra obtained are superior to earlier spectra obtained with the use of a Fourier transform spectrometer.
Backstepping vehicle steering controller using integral and robust control based on dynamic state estimation

One of the concerns in vehicle steering controls regards how to manipulate a vehicle to follow a designated path accurately. Generally, this issue is usually solved by linear or nonlinear control techniques based exclusively on vehicle kinematics or on a solution that partially combines dynamics. In this paper, an integral robust multi-tiered model-based vehicle steering control strategy is proposed in order to consider both kinematics and dynamics simultaneously. In this strategy, the kinematic controller provides yaw rate commands to converge the vehicle to a designated path by tuning an embedded sliding surface based on vehicle capability. To minimize steady-state errors caused by path curvature discontinuity, integral control is also applied. A robust dynamic controller is designed to reject modeling errors and disturbances caused by side slip angle from robust observer estimations. Steering rate is implemented to consider steering actuator capabilities and to smooth steering commands. Simulations and experiments validate control performance with a full-size passenger vehicle.
Deformation of the normal monkey optic nerve head connective tissue after acute IOP elevation within 3-D histomorphometric reconstructions.

Purpose To characterize optic nerve head (ONH) connective tissue deformation after acute (15 or 30 minutes) intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation in six adult normal monkeys using three-dimensional (3-D) histomorphometry. Methods Trephined ONH and peripapillary sclera from both eyes of six monkeys, each perfusion fixed with one eye at IOP 10 mm Hg (IOP-10) and the other at IOP 30 or 45 mm Hg (IOP-30 or IOP-45, by anterior chamber manometer), were serially sectioned, 3-D reconstructed, 3-D delineated, and quantified according to standard parameters. For each monkey, intereye differences (high-IOP eye minus IOP-10) for each parameter were calculated and compared by ANOVA and EPIDmax both overall and regionally. EPIDmax deformations for each parameter were defined to be those statistically significant differences that exceeded the maximum physiologic intereye difference within six bilaterally normal monkeys in a previous report. Results Regional EPIDmax laminar thinning, posterior bowing of the peripapillary sclera, and thinning and expansion of the scleral canal were present in most high-IOP eyes and were colocalized in those demonstrating the most deformation. Laminar deformation was minimal, not only posteriorly but in some cases anteriorly in the high-IOP eyes. No increase in deformation was seen in the IOP-45 versus the IOP-30 eyes. Conclusions ONH connective tissue alterations after acute IOP elevation involve regional thinning, stretching, and deformation of the lamina cribrosa and peripapillary sclera that are minimal to modest in magnitude. The time-dependent character of these alterations and their compressive, expansile, and shear effects on the axons, the astrocytes, and the laminar and posterior ciliary circulations remain to be determined.
Spanish–English speech perception in children and adults: Developmental trends

This study explored the developmental trends and phonetic category formation in bilingual children and adults. Participants included 30 fluent Spanish-English bilingual children, aged 8-11, and bilingual adults, aged 18-40. All completed gating tasks that incorporated code-mixed Spanish-English stimuli. There were significant differences in performance according to phonotactic construction of the stimuli, with fastest word recognition on words with voiceless initial consonants. Analysis of developmental trends revealed significant differences in children's performance by grade level and fastest recognition on English voiceless initial consonants than Spanish voiceless initial consonants. Differences in voice onset time between English and Spanish may have contributed to quicker recognition of English voiceless consonants than Spanish voiceless consonants. It is also possible that increased exposure to both spoken and written English may account for faster recognition of English voiceless words than Spanish voiceless words. In conclusion, multiple factors may influence perception of a second language.
Is social anxiety associated with impairment in close relationships? A preliminary investigation.

We examined the association between social anxiety and interpersonal functioning. Unlike prior research, we focused specifically on close relationships, given the growing evidence of dysfunction in these relationships among people with psychopathology. We proposed that social anxiety would be associated with specific interpersonal styles. One hundred sixty-eight young adults with a range of social anxiety symptoms were interviewed regarding symptom severity, interpersonal styles, and chronic interpersonal stress. Results indicated that higher levels of social anxiety were associated with interpersonal styles reflecting less assertion, more conflict avoidance, more avoidance of expressing emotion, and greater interpersonal dependency. Moreover, lack of assertion and overreliance on others mediated the association between social anxiety and interpersonal stress. Associations held controlling for depressive symptoms. Implications of these findings for interpersonally oriented conceptualizations of social anxiety disorder are discussed.
Focal Adhesions and Cell-Matrix Interactions

Focal adhesions are areas of cell surfaces where specializations of cytoskeletal, membrane and extracellular components combine to produce stable cell-matrix interactions. The morphology of these adhesions and the components identified in them are discussed together with possible mechanisms of their formation.
Superoxide Reacts with Nitric Oxide to Nitrate Tyrosine at Physiological pH via Peroxynitrite

Tyrosine nitration is a widely used marker of peroxynitrite (ONOO−) produced from the reaction of nitric oxide with superoxide. Pfeiffer and Mayer (Pfeiffer, S., and Mayer, B. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 273, 27280–27285) reported that superoxide produced from hypoxanthine plus xanthine oxidase in combination with nitric oxide produced from spermine NONOate did not nitrate tyrosine at neutral pH. They suggested that nitric oxide and superoxide at neutral pH form a less reactive intermediate distinct from preformed alkaline peroxynitrite that does not nitrate tyrosine. Using a stopped-flow spectrophotometer to rapidly mix potassium superoxide with nitric oxide at pH 7.4, we report that an intermediate spectrally and kinetically identical to preformed alkalinecis-peroxynitrite was formed in 100% yield. Furthermore, this intermediate nitrated tyrosine in the same yield and at the same rate as preformed peroxynitrite. Equivalent concentrations of nitric oxide under aerobic conditions in the absence of superoxide did not produce detectable concentrations of nitrotyrosine. Carbon dioxide increased the efficiency of nitration by nitric oxide plus superoxide to the same extent as peroxynitrite. In experiments using xanthine oxidase as a source of superoxide, tyrosine nitration was substantially inhibited by urate formed from hypoxanthine oxidation, which was sufficient to account for the lack of tyrosine nitration previously reported. We conclude that peroxynitrite formed from the reaction of nitric oxide with superoxide at physiological pH remains an important species responsible for tyrosine nitration in vivo.
Women and abortion: the past reaches into the present.

Aim. This paper reports a study of women's responses to abortion over an extended time. Background. Most studies of postabortion responses do not portray what women experience over an extended time period, since many only use a 24 month follow-up period. Results from previous studies indicate that women have thoughts about their abortion that they suppress or find intrusive. Method. Sixteen women who had chosen to terminate a pregnancy for non-medical reasons at least 15 years previously were interviewed during the years 1999–2001. This phenomenological study revealed their responses to and thoughts about their abortion(s). Findings. Each of the women spoke about thinking of their abortion(s) at varied times. The abortion(s) was/were not a time-limited event; instead thoughts, emotions, and insights about the meaning of these experiences were on-going, as life events unfolded. The past reached into the present in varied ways and at unplanned times. Difficulties with subsequent pregnancies, life milestones, and mundane occurrences involving friends' children were common triggers for recurring thoughts about past abortions. These recurrent thoughts had characteristics of avoidance or suppression and intrusion. Conclusion. When taking an obstetric history, nurses and midwives should be sensitive when inquiring about discrepancies between the number of times a woman has been pregnant and the number of living children. Opportunity should be given for a woman to discuss in a safe, non-judgmental environment any emotions or thoughts she may express. Providers of women's healthcare services must reflect about ways to reassure women of the common nature of recurrent thoughts and the spectrum of emotional responses that, even years later, is normal.
An initial depression of respiration of a cell suspension by L-thyroxine.

Abstract Cell suspensions were prepared from rat kidney by passing minced tissue through a 35 mesh stainless steel screen. The cells were viable and respiration was linear with time. L-thyroxine at a concentration of 10 −5 molar depressed respiration with an hour. The degree of response was directly related to the dose of thyroxine used. Triiodothyronine and D-thyroxine had a similar effect. Potassium iodide, diiodotyrosine or thyronine did not alter respiration. Albumin or serum appeared to block the action of thyroxine.
Task Scheduling on Flow Networks with Temporal Uncertainty

This study was motivated by the large-scale evacuations and aftermath relief efforts caused by hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. During large-scale natural disasters, both demands and uncertainties on transportation networks can be pushed to the extreme. The objective of this study is to optimally schedule tasks on a flow network that has temporal uncertainty modeled with interval valued time costs. We apply a fuzzy partial order relation for intervals to extend the Edmonds-Karp max-flow min-cost algorithm in this paper. Then, using the greedy approach, we propose task optimal schedule algorithms on a flow network with temporal uncertainties by utilizing its full capacity with the least possibility of delay in terms of the fuzzy partial order relations of intervals. In addition to the task scheduling algorithms, simple case studies are also provided in this paper
Hearing the other: Social change and individual growth in the women’s, men’s, and eco-spirituality movements

The mythopoetic men’s movement has been criticized for its self-absorption and uninvolvement in social action. This article argues that social change begins with the kind of individual quest that allows one to operate from a place of peace and justice within oneself, and that the mythopoetic men’s movement offers some the encouragement to do this. The purpose of the mythopoetic movement is not to strengthen men’s identification with traditional masculinities but rather to encourage them to descend beneath the trappings of cultural engendering to find, as women are also committed to finding, their own voices.
Long-range surface magnetoplasmons in thin nickel films

We present the results of a theoretical and experimental investigation of long-range surface magnetoplasmons in thin, magnetic metal films. With a transversely applied magnetic field, the reflectance modulation measurements from prism-coupled modes in nickel films are in agreement with the theory. The reflectance modulation is the same order of magnitude for prism-coupled long-range and single-interface magnetoplasmons.
Heat-transfer problems solved by the method of non-linear mechanics

Abstract The heat-transfer problem studied by Schmidt and Beckmann involving three partial differential equations with dependent variables u, v, and T (absolute temperature) and independent variables x and y can be transformed into two ordinary non-linear differential equations (following Pohlhausen): w′″ + 3w w″ − 2(w′) 2 + z = 0 z″ + 3P w z′ = 0 where P is a constant (3P = 2.2 for air). The new dependent variables are w and z (which is related to temperature), and the new independent variable is η = Cy x 1 4 . The boundary conditions are: w(0) = 0, w′(0) = 0, w″(0) = a. z(0) = 1, z′(0) = b, w′(∞) = 0, and z(∞) = 0. The Pohlhausen equations are solved by the phase-space method. Projections of the 5-dimensional phase trajectory are given in Figs. 1–5. The solution curves are given in Figs. 6–9 showing the agreement between numerical solution and the analog computer results. By changing the value of w″(0), three sets of projections are shown in Figs. 10 and 11, and their corresponding solution curves are shown in Figs. 12–16.
Protective effect of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) on glomerular protein permeability barrier.

Protective effect of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) on glomerular protein permeability barrier. Background Proteinuria is a significant problem in medicine today, although glomerular events underlying it are unknown. Products of cytochrome P450 (CYP450) pathway of arachidonic acid metabolism are increasingly recognized as playing major roles in renal function. We used in vitro albumin permeability (P alb ) as a measure of injury and puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) as an injurious agent to test the hypothesis that 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) protects the glomerular filtration barrier from increased P alb . Methods We determined P alb in the following experimental groups: ( 1 ) isolated rat glomeruli incubated with PAN (5μg/mL) for 5, 15, 30 or 60 minutes; ( 2 ) isolated glomeruli preincubated with 20-HETE (1.0 nmol/L to 100 nmol/L) for 15 minutes followed by additional incubation with PAN (5μg/mL) for 15 minutes; ( 3 ) isolated glomeruli from rats treated with the CYP450 4A inducer clofibrate, and incubated with PAN (5μg/mL) for 15 minutes; and ( 4 ) appropriate controls for each group. CYP450 4A levels were measured in glomeruli isolated from rats treated with clofibrate or vehicle. Results PAN increased P alb of isolated glomeruli as early as 5 minutes (P alb 0.33 ± 0.21, P alb 0.75 ± 0.16, P alb caused by PAN (P alb 0.05 ± 0.13). Likewise, glomeruli isolated from rats treated with clofibrate were protected from PAN-induced increase in P alb (P alb 0.19 ± 0.03). Treatment with clofibrate significantly increased glomerular CYP450 4A expression. Conclusion PAN directly and immediately affects the glomerular permeability barrier. Furthermore, exogenous 20-HETE or clofibrate treatment protects glomeruli from increased P alb caused by PAN. Relative lack of 20-HETE may be a general characteristic of proteinuric states. Conversely, measures used to treat and/or prevent proteinuria may act to restore or increase glomerular 20-HETE levels.
Racial Threat, Direct Legislation, and Social Trust Taking Tyranny Seriously in Studies of the Ballot Initiative

Current research has argued that direct legislation makes democracies better by helping to encourage better democratic citizenship. In this study, the author tests whether these effects are conditional on the diversity of the electorate. Theoretically, he argues that policy making by majority rule will create conflict because of the perceived threat of large numerical minorities by majority groups. The author hypothesizes that in areas of greater diversity, democratic citizenship socialization effects can be mitigated, especially as it relates to trusting strangers. Using pooled data from the American National Election Study, the author demonstrates the diversity conditional effects of ballot initiative context on generalized trust.
Superhyperfine structure in the ESR spectra of C02− and CO33− molecule-ions in single-crystal calcite

Additional multiplicity has been observed in the ESR spectra of CO2− and C03−3 molecule-ions trapped in single-crystal calcite. For both cases, this multiplicity is interpreted as superhyperfine structure arising from the isotopic substitution of naturally occurring 13C for 12C in neighboring carbonate ions. An analysis of the spectra based upon relative absorption line intensity ratios as well as considerations of symmetry suggest that the CO2− molecule-ion interacts primarily with but a single next-nearest-neighbor carbonate ion located in the plane of CO2−. For the case of CO33− molecule-ions, the spectral data suggest interaction with both the nearest-neighbor and next-nearest-neighbor carbonate ions. Details relating to the disposition of the interacting carbonate ions as well as the function of spin density transferred to these ligands are discussed.
The pathobiology of human neuromas: An electron microscopic and biochemical study

The formation of neuroma scar after trauma or neurorrhaphy is believed to be mediated by the response of collagen forming fibroblasts. In this study of twenty human neuromas, myofibroblasts were identified as a component of the scar. These cells occurred singly or as aggregates. There was a qualitative increase of myofibroblasts during the period from two to six months post-injury. From six months to one and one-half years post-injury, numbers and aggregations of myofibroblasts diminished, concurrent with collagen proliferation. Ultrastructural alcian blue staining and biochemical analyses revealed a glucosamine--glycosaminoglycan matrix within neuromas when compared to control nerves. Myofibroblasts appear to play a part in the pathobiology of human neuromas.
The comparative study of nationalism: Six pivotal themes from the Baltic states

(1992). The comparative study of nationalism: Six pivotal themes from the Baltic states. Journal of Baltic Studies: Vol. 23, Baltic Nationalisms in Comparative Perspective, pp. 95-104.
Simulation of imaging and stray light effects in immersion lithography

Immersion lithography is a viable method for continuing the reduction in critical dimension. Much of the improvement in image quality in immersion lithography centers around high-NA vector imaging effects and in particular the roles of the resist coupling and polarization properties. Electromagnetic scattering from local inhomogenities is considered yet emphasis is placed on the importance of accounting for high-NA, vector, immersion and resist standing wave effects. A new vector TCC formulation is introduced in SPLAT 6.0. The formulation is tested against a new theoretical formula for the Strehl ratio in air at high-NA and imaging 2D contact patterns at high NA in the resist stack.
Survival with good outcome after traversing brainstem injury: case report.

OBJECTIVE: A penetrating injury to the brainstem is usually a fatal injury. The number of cases in which the brainstem is traversed during the injury and the patient survives is exceedingly small. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: We report a case of an automobile collision in which blunt injury to the face of a 22-year-old man resulted in a fragment of the clivus being impacted posteriorly traversing through the pons in a left-sided through-and-through manner. The striking radiographic images demonstrate a potentially devastating brainstem injury. Surprisingly, the patient was able to follow commands and move his left side on arrival at the hospital. INTERVENTION: The patient required a temporary tracheostomy and underwent surgical repair of his facial fractures. His hospital course was complicated by meningitis, and he required a long stay on the rehabilitation service. The patient made a remarkable recovery and became able to converse and walk with assistance. He has been able to live independently. CONCLUSION: The striking radiographic images of this rare case illustrate an unusual pathology with an even more unusual outcome.
Mechanistic and Kinetic Details of Catalysis of Thiol-Disulfide Exchange by Glutaredoxins and Potential Mechanisms of Regulation

Abstract Glutaredoxins are small, heat-stable proteins that exhibit a characteristic thioredoxin fold and a CXXC/S active-site motif. A variety of glutathione (GSH)-dependent catalytic activities have been attributed to the glutaredoxins, including reduction of ribonucleotide reductase, arsenate, and dehydroascorbate; assembly of iron sulfur cluster complexes; and protein glutathionylation and deglutathionylation. Catalysis of reversible protein glutathionylation by glutaredoxins has been implicated in regulation of redox signal transduction and sulfhydryl homeostasis in numerous contexts in health and disease. This forum review is presented in two parts. Part I is focused primarily on the mechanism of the deglutathionylation reaction catalyzed by prototypical dithiol glutaredoxins, especially human Grx1 and Grx2. Grx-catalyzed protein deglutathionylation proceeds by a nucleophilic, double-displacement mechanism in which rate enhancement is attributed to special reactivity of the low pKa cysteine at its a...
Technology Insight: noninvasive brain stimulation in neurology—perspectives on the therapeutic potential of rTMS and tDCS

The use of brain stimulation for the treatment of neurological diseases such as chronic pain, Parkinson's disease, stroke and epilepsy has attracted growing attention. In this article, Fregni and Pascual-Leone review the recent literature regarding the use of two noninvasive brain stimulation techniques: repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation. The authors discuss the underlying principles and present examples illustrating the therapeutic potential of these two techniques. In neurology, as in all branches of medicine, symptoms of disease and the resulting burden of illness and disability are not simply the consequence of the injury, inflammation or dysfunction of a given organ; they also reflect the consequences of the nervous system's attempt to adapt to the insult. This plastic response includes compensatory changes that prove adaptive for the individual, as well as changes that contribute to functional disability and are, therefore, maladaptive. In this context, brain stimulation techniques tailored to modulate individual plastic changes associated with neurological diseases might enhance clinical benefits and minimize adverse effects. In this Review, we discuss the use of two noninvasive brain stimulation techniques—repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation—to modulate activity in the targeted cortex or in a dysfunctional network, to restore an adaptive equilibrium in a disrupted network for best behavioral outcome, and to suppress plastic changes for functional advantage. We review randomized controlled studies, in focal epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, recovery from stroke, and chronic pain, to illustrate these principles, and we present evidence for the clinical effects of these two techniques.