cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enabling spatial reading using multimodal system for individuals with blindness

In this research, we investigate technology that gives multimodal access to enable Individuals with Blindness or Severe Visual Impairments (IBSVI) to read text documents by fusing audio, spatial, and haptic information. We use the iPad as an exemplar of modern slate devices that combine computation, touch sensing, and audio capabilities as the platform for our research. The preliminary results of our experiments show the functionality of our system, however interaction problems need to be addressed.
Nf1 mutation expands an EGFR-dependent peripheral nerve progenitor population and confers tumorigenic potential

Jon P. Williams1,4, Jianqiang Wu1,4, Gunnar Johansson1, Tilat A. Rizvi1, Shyra C. Miller1, Hartmut Geiger1, Punam Malik1, Wenling Li2, Yoh-suke Mukouyama2, Jose A. Cancelas1,3, and Nancy Ratner1,* 1Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA 2Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Genetics, and Developmental Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA 3Hoxworth Blood Center, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229-7013, USA
On a Variant of Van Der Waerden's Theorem

Given positive integers n and k, a k-term quasi-progression of diameter n is a sequence (x1, x2, ..., xk) such that d ≤ xj+1−xj ≤ d+n, 1 ≤ j ≤ k−1, for some positive integer d. Thus an arithmetic progression is a quasi-progression of diameter 0. Let Qn(k) denote the least integer for which every coloring of {1, 2, ..., Qn(k)} yields a monochromatic k-term quasi-progression of diameter n. We obtain an exponential lower bound on Q1(k) using probabilistic techniques and linear algebra.
Cumulative environmental risk in substance abusing women: early intervention, parenting stress, child abuse potential and child development

Abstract Objective: To assess the relationship between cumulative environmental risks and early intervention, parenting attitudes, potential for child abuse and child development in substance abusing mothers. Method: We studied 161 substance-abusing women, from a randomized longitudinal study of a home based early intervention, who had custody of their children through 18 months. The intervention group received weekly home visits in the first 6 months and biweekly visits from 6 to 18 months. Parenting stress and child abuse potential were assessed at 6 and 18 months postpartum. Children’s mental and motor development (Bayley MDI and PDI) and language development (REEL) were assessed at 6, 12, and 18 months postpartum. Ten maternal risk factors were assessed: maternal depression, domestic violence, nondomestic violence, family size, incarceration, no significant other in home, negative life events, psychiatric problems, homelessness, and severity of drug use. Level of risk was recoded into four categories (2 or less, 3, 4, and 5 or more), which had adequate cell sizes for repeated measures analysis. Data analysis: Repeated measures analyses were run to examine how level of risk and group (intervention or control) were related to parenting stress, child abuse potential, and children’s mental, motor and language development over time. Results: Parenting stress and child abuse potential were higher for women with five risks or more compared with women who had four or fewer risks; children’s mental, motor, and language development were not related to level of risk. Children in the intervention group had significantly higher scores on the PDI at 6 and 18 months (107.4 vs. 103.6 and 101.1 vs. 97.2) and had marginally better scores on the MDI at 6 and 12 months (107.7 vs. 104.2 and 103.6 vs. 100.1), compared to the control group. Conclusion: Compared to drug-abusing women with fewer than five risks, women with five or more risks found parenting more stressful and indicated greater inclination towards abusive and neglectful behavior, placing their infants at increased risk for poor parenting, abuse and neglect. Early home-based intervention in high-risk families may be beneficial to infant development.
Disrupted bile acid homeostasis reveals an unexpected interaction among nuclear hormone receptors, transporters, and cytochrome P450.

Sister of P-glycoprotein (SPGP) is the major hepatic bile salt export pump (BSEP). BSEP/SPGP expression varies dramatically among human livers. The potency and hierarchy of bile acids as ligands for the farnesyl/bile acid receptor (FXR/BAR) paralleled their ability to induce BSEP in human hepatocyte cultures. FXR:RXR heterodimers bound to IR1 elements and enhanced bile acid transcriptional activation of the mouse and human BSEP/SPGP promoters. In FXR/BAR nullizygous mice, which have dramatically reduced BSEP/SPGP levels, hepatic CYP3A11 and CYP2B10 were strongly but unexpectedly induced. Notably, the rank order of bile acids as CYP3A4 inducers and activators of pregnane X receptor/steroid and xenobiotic receptor (PXR/SXR) closely paralleled each other but was markedly different from their hierarchy and potency as inducers of BSEP in human hepatocytes. Moreover, the hepatoprotective bile acid ursodeoxycholic acid, which reverses hydrophobic bile acid hepatotoxicity, activates PXR and efficaciously induces CYP3A4 (a bile-metabolizing enzyme) in primary human hepatocytes thus providing one mechanism for its hepatoprotection. Because serum and urinary bile acids increased in FXR/BAR −/− mice, we evaluated hepatic transporters for compensatory changes that might circumvent the profound decrease in BSEP/SPGP. We found weak MRP3 up-regulation. In contrast, MRP4 was substantially increased in the FXR/BAR nullizygous mice and was further elevated by cholic acid. Thus, enhanced hepatocellular concentrations of bile acids, due to the down-regulation of BSEP/SPGP-mediated efflux in FXR nullizygous mice, result in an alternate but apparent compensatory up-regulation of CYP3A, CYP2B, and some ABC transporters that is consistent with activation of PXR/SXR by bile acids.
Allocating observations between two normal populations to maximize the half slope of the F-test

Abstract Consider two independent normal populations. Let R denote the ratio of the variances. The usual procedure for testing H 0 : R = 1 vs. H 1 : R = r , where r ≠1, is the F-test. Let θ denote the proportion of observations to be allocated to the first population. Here we find the value of θ that maximizes the rate at which the observed significance level of the F-test converges to zero under H 1 , as measured by the half slope.
Depolarization and a NO-donor stimulate interleukin-1β release from the rat hypothalamus via a mechanism involving caspase 1

Previous in vitro studies showed that rat hypothalamic explants release interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta); such release is significantly increased by several stimuli including 56 mM KCl and NO-donors in 20-min experiments. Here we tested the hypothesis that the above stimuli act via a mechanism involving cleavage of the IL-1beta precursor by interleukin-1beta converting enzyme (ICE, also referred to as caspase-1). A cell-permeable form of the caspase-1 inhibitor I and two different stimuli, 56 mM KCl and sodium nitroprusside (SNP), were used. The inhibitor was able to counteract the increase in IL-1beta release induced by both K+ and SNP, while having no effect on basal release.
A preliminary longitudinal fMRI study of frontal-subcortical circuits in bipolar disorder using a paced motor activation paradigm

Background: Compelling evidence suggests abnormal functioning of frontal-subcortical (FSC) circuits in bipolar disorder, but it is unknown whether these are state or trait abnormalities. Longitudinal functional neuroimaging studies may help clarify this issue. However, studies to date have not determined which activation paradigms may be most useful for this purpose. A paced motor task has the potential to be more reliable than cognitive or emotional activation paradigms. Methods: To evaluate the utility of a paced motor activation task as a longitudinal probe of FSC function, we conducted fMRI scans of 10 subjects with bipolar I disorder when euthymic. We compared activation patterns to the same subjects who had been previously scanned during an episode of depression. Results: The paced motor task resulted in activation in the bilateral striatum which was consistent across mood states as well as greater activation among the subjects when euthymic in the right anterior cingulate and medial frontal gyrus. Limitations: The study sample was small (10 subjects) which limits generalizability of findings. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first longitudinal study of bipolar illness utilizing a paced motor task. These findings suggest that a paced motor task is useful as a longitudinal probe of both state and trait function in bipolar disorder. Further, this study provides preliminary evidence that striatal functional abnormalities may represent a trait characteristic. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Palynological Evidence for Late- and Postglacial Environmental Change in Central Colorado

Abstract A sediment core recovered from Lost Park (39°17′30″N, 105°32′30″W; elevation 3079 m) provides palynological evidence for postglacial vegetational and environmental change in the central Front Range of Colorado. Pine–spruce woodland was the dominant vegetation type throughout the ∼12,000-yr-long record. Nonarboreal taxa, however, showed substantial changes. From 11,800 to 9100 14 C yr B.P., high Artemisia levels suggest steppe vegetation indicative of a climate cooler than that at present with an annual precipitation regime dominated by winter moisture. The pollen spectra of this interval resemble modern spectra at two sites within Colorado and Wyoming; comparisons of modern climatic data suggest that Lost Park may have experienced winter temperatures 3° to 3.5°C colder than those at present and monthly winter precipitation levels 3.5 cm higher than those at present during this late-glacial time. Lower Artemisia, coupled with increases in Poaceae pollen, suggest a shift to warmer conditions dominated by summer (monsoon) precipitation around 9100 14 C yr B.P. Increased charcoal occurrences between ∼6000 and ∼4000 14 C yr B.P. may suggest the onset of drier summer conditions that would be expected with a waning summer monsoon circulation at that time. Since 1800 14 C yr B.P., a resurgence in Artemisia pollen suggests a return to relatively cool and/or dry conditions similar to the present climate.
Track-etched magnetic micropores for immunomagnetic isolation of pathogens.

A microfluidic chip is developed to selectively isolate magnetically tagged cells from heterogeneous suspensions, the track-etched magnetic micropore (TEMPO) filter. The TEMPO consists of an ion track-etched polycarbonate membrane coated with soft magnetic film (Ni20 Fe80 ). In the presence of an applied field, provided by a small external magnet, the filter becomes magnetized and strong magnetic traps are created along the edges of the micro-pores. In contrast to conventional microfluidics, fluid flows vertically through the porous membrane allowing large flow rates while keeping the capture rate high and the chip compact. By utilizing track-etching instead of conventional semiconductor fabrication, TEMPOs can be fabricated with microscale pores over large areas A > 1 cm(2) at little cost ( 500 at a flow rate of Φ = 5 mL h(-1) . Furthermore, the large density of micropores (ρ = 10(6) cm(-2) ) allows the TEMPO to sort E. coli from unprocessed environmental and clinical samples, as the blockage of a few pores does not significantly change the behavior of the device.
Commitment across the Miles: Ideological and Microstructural Sources of Membership Support in a National Antihunger Organization

The national membership organizations that often compose social movements usually find it very difficult to promote and sustain membership commitment. Since their isolated members have relatively little contact with the organization or with each other, they are unlikely to develop strong feelings of support for the national organization. Despite these problems, levels of commitment among members still vary, making it important for theoretical and pragmatic reasons to identify the factors affecting differential support. This study examines the effects of ideological, microstructural, and other sources of commitment in a national antihunger organization. Final remarks address the theoretical and pragmatic implications of the findings.
Study of the I= 12 Kπ scattering amplitude (I). Threshold to 1 GeV mass region☆

Abstract Kπ scattering from threshold to 1 GeV in Kpi; mass is studied by modified Chew-Low extrapolation in the reactions K − p→K − π + n and K + n→K + π − p. Although the cross section and moments of these two reactions differ significantly in the physical region, similar values are found for the Kπ phases in the two processes. The necessary modifications of one pion exchange are sizeable and although they do not agree quantitatively with the poor man's absorption model, they can be understood in a more general absorption framework. The experimental Kπ s-wave scattering length is much larger than naive current algebra predictions but consistent with a straight forward dispersion theory method of extrapolating current algebra to the physical region.
Gender differences in twin-twin transfusion syndrome.

Objective To determine whether there is a gender discrepancy in severe twin-twin transfusion syndrome. Methods All cases of twin-twin transfusion syndrome evaluated between 1989 and 1996 were reviewed retrospectively. The following sonographic criteria were used: a single placenta, a thin membrane, the same gender, a combination of polyhydramnios-oligohydramnios, a stuck twin and an estimated weight discordance exceeding 20%. At least five of six sonographic criteria were required for inclusion in the study. Only severe cases, which were defined as early onset (before 30 weeks' gestation), a combination of polyhydramnios and oligohydramnios, a stuck twin, fetal hydrops, fetal death, or the requirement of medical or invasive treatment, were included. Chorionicity was confirmed by placental examination when available. Results Thirty-seven twin pregnancies met the above criteria, of which 33 (89%) twin pairs were female. The median gestational age at presentation was 19 weeks (range 15–29; standard deviation, 5.6). A single placenta, thin membrane same gender, and polyhydramnios-oligohydramnios were present in every case. A stuck twin was noted in 34 of 37 cases (92%), and a growth discordance exceeding 20% was present in 26 of 36 (72%). Placental pathology, which was available in 31 (84%) cases, confirmed a monochorionic placentation in 29. Twenty-five (68%) cases had reduction amniocentesis, two were treated with indomethacin, one underwent a cord ligation, and in four cases, fetal death occurred before treatment was instituted. Conclusion There is a significant female preponderance in pregnancies complicated by severe twin-twin transfusion syndrome. The reasons for this are unclear, but they may be related to either placental or fetal gender-specific differences affecting a subset of monochorionic twin pregnancies.
Fundamental Properties of Boussinesq-Type Equations for Wave Motion Over a Permeable Bed

This paper presents analyses of the fundamental properties of the fully nonlinear Boussinesq-type equations for waves and currents over a permeable seabed introduced by Chen [2005]. These propertie...
A link-free method for testing the significance of predictors

One important step in regression analysis is to identify significant predictors from a pool of candidates so that a parsimonious model can be obtained using these significant predictors only. However, most of the existing methods assume linear relationships between response and predictors, which may be inappropriate in some applications. In this article, we discuss a link-free method that avoids specifying how the response depends on the predictors. Therefore, this method has no problem of model misspecification, and it is suitable for selecting significant predictors at the preliminary stage of data analysis. A test statistic is suggested and its asymptotic distribution is derived. Examples are used to demonstrate the proposed method.
Self-other differentiation and symbolization in the psychoses

A number of recent studies have been devoted to examining areas of convergence between psychoanalytic and cognitive-developmental theories, specifically with regard to the topics of self-other differentiation and symbol formation. In this paper some of the hypotheses which have emerged are sketched and related to certain sociological and linguistic views of symbolization, and some applications to study of the psychoses reviewed.
Biomechanical force in blood development: Extrinsic physical cues drive pro-hematopoietic signaling☆

The hematopoietic system is dynamic during development and in adulthood, undergoing countless spatial and temporal transitions during the course of one's life. Microenvironmental cues in the many unique hematopoietic niches differ, characterized by distinct soluble molecules, membrane-bound factors, and biophysical features that meet the changing needs of the blood system. Research from the last decade has revealed the importance of substrate elasticity and biomechanical force in determination of stem cell fate. Our understanding of the role of these factors in hematopoiesis is still relatively poor; however, the developmental origin of blood cells from the endothelium provides a model for comparison. Many endothelial mechanical sensors and second messenger systems may also determine hematopoietic stem cell fate, self renewal, and homing behaviors. Further, the intimate contact of hematopoietic cells with mechanosensitive cell types, including osteoblasts, endothelial cells, mesenchymal stem cells, and pericytes, places them in close proximity to paracrine signaling downstream of mechanical signals. The objective of this review is to present an overview of the sensors and intracellular signaling pathways activated by mechanical cues and highlight the role of mechanotransductive pathways in hematopoiesis.
MINERALOCORTICOID RECEPTOR ANTAGONISTS IN DIABETIC PATIENTS HOSPITALIZED WITH HEART FAILURE: INSIGHTS FROM THE EVEREST TRIAL

Despite benefits of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), concerns for adverse events in patients (pts) with diabetes (DM) limit use. The characteristics and outcomes of DM pts receiving MRAs are not well characterized. We analyzed 1,
The Determination of α-Keto Acids and Oxalic Acid in Rain, Fog and Mist by HPLC

Abstract A simple single-step procedure for the determination of α-ketoacids and oxalic acid in rain, fog and mist is reported. The method is based upon the reversed-phase liquid chromatography of the quinoxilinol derivative of the α-ketoacids and the hydroxy-quinoxilinol of oxalic acid. This procedure is sensitive at the submicromolar level and measurements are reproducible to better than ± 10%. Oxalic acid, glyoxylic acid and pyruvic acid concentrations in fog, mist, and rain samples, collected in the Los Angeles area have been determined by the methods described in this study.
Lateral access recontouring blepharoplasty for rejuvenation of the lower lids.

Background:Effective lower eyelid blepharoplasty is possible in a virtually closed fashion without either an anterior subciliary skin incision or a transconjunctival incision, both of which put the patient at risk for lower lid retraction.Methods:Over a 6-year period, the author performed lower lid
Etiology and incidence of rehospitalization after traumatic brain injury: a multicenter analysis.

Abstract Objective: To investigate incidence and etiology of rehospitalizations at 1, 2, and 3 years after traumatic brain injury. Design: Descriptive statistics were computed in a prospective study of etiology and incidence of rehospitalization at years 1, 2, and 3 postinjury. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and χ 2 were used to identify factors relating to rehospitalization; factors included length of stay, admission and discharge functional status, payer source, medical complications, injury severity, and demographics. Setting: Four medical centers in the federally sponsored Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems. In each setting, the continuum of care includes emergency medical services, intensive and acute medical care, inpatient rehabilitation, and a spectrum of community rehabilitation services. Participants: Six hundred sixty-five rehabilitation patients admitted to acute care within 24 hours of traumatic brain injury between 1989 and 1996. Main Outcome Measures: Annual incidence and etiology of rehospitalization. Results: The annual incidence of rehospitalization ranged from 20% to 22.5%. Approximately half the rehospitalizations were for elective reasons. The most common reason for rehospitalization was for orthopedic or reconstructive surgery, followed by infectious disorders and general health maintenance. After the first year, the incidence of readmissions for seizures and psychiatric difficulties increased substantially. ANOVA and χ 2 analyses were performed on data from the first year postinjury. No statistically significant associations were noted between incidence and etiology of rehospitalization and: demographics; injury severity; payer source for rehabilitation; concurrent injuries; acute care and rehabilitation length of stays; discharge Functional Assessment Measure; and discharge residence ( p > .05). Conclusions: There is a relatively stable but high rate of rehospitalization for at least 3 years after injury. The costs of rehospitalization should be considered when evaluating the long-term consequences of injury.
Czochralski growth of single-crystal Mg2SiO4 (forsterite)☆

Abstract Single crystals of Mg 2 SiO 4 up to 8 mm in diameter by 3 cm long were pulled from the melt in air at approximately 1900 °C. A pull rate appropriate for good quality Mg 2 SiO 4 growth is 1.2 cm/hr, with seed rotation at 10–25 rpm. Crystals were grown doped with 2+ , Cr 3+ , or Fe 3+ , with variable effects on color and quality.
Invexity : an updated survey and new results for nonsmooth functions

The purpose of this paper is to introduce two recent developments in optimization theory which have the potential for significant impact when applied to the many optimization problems in mathematical statistics. The needs of optimization theory have served as the catalyst for the introduction and recent development of two important concepts: invexity and generalized differentiability. The former is a significant generalization of the simple yet powerful concept of convexity, while the latter extends the differentiabe calculus to functions that are not differentiabe in any traditional two-sided sense. For the most part these concepts have been developed independently in the literature. In this paper we provide an updated review of many of the results concerning smooth invex functions and merge the two concepts by introducing invexity for nonsmooth functions. For both real-valued and vector-valued nonsmooth functions we present recent results on optimality conditions, duality, and converse duality. No previ...
Evaluation of numerical models of flood and tide propagation in channels

An analysis of the predictive capabilities of cross-section–integrated models of gradually varied, unsteady flow in channels initially highlights the physical characteristics of the conservation equations, with particular emphasis on those aspects that are operationally crucial or potentially challenged in numerical implementation. A sequence of benchmark test problems are introduced with the express purpose of evaluating all potentially important features of expected response patterns. This sequence of problems is designed to exercise the physically and numerically significant response patterns that are expected to be within the predictive capability of numerical models of flood and tide propagation in channels. An extensive and independent review of this nature should be a routine and automatic part of any numerical model study.
Spatiotemporal distribution of Chinavia hilaris (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in corn farmscapes.

The green stink bug, Chinavia hilaris (Say) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is a pest of cotton in the southeastern United States but little is known concerning its spatiotemporal distribution in corn cropping systems. Therefore, the spatiotemporal distribution of C. hilaris in farmscapes, when corn was adjacent to cotton, peanut, or both, was examined weekly. The spatial patterns of C. hilaris counts were analyzed using Spatial Analysis by Distance Indices methodology. Interpolated maps of C. hilaris density were used to visualize abundance and distribution of C. hilaris in crops in corn–peanut–cotton farmscapes. This stink bug was detected in six of seven corn–cotton farmscapes, four of six corn–peanut farmscapes, and in both corn–peanut–cotton farmscapes. The frequency of C. hilaris in cotton (89.47%) was significantly higher than in peanut (7.02%) or corn (3.51%). This stink bug fed on noncrop hosts that grew in field borders adjacent to crops. The spatial distribution of C. hilaris in crops and the capture of C. hilaris adults and nymphs in pheromone-baited traps near noncrop hosts indicated that these hosts were sources of this stink bug dispersing into crops, primarily cotton. Significant aggregated spatial distributions were detected in cotton on some dates within corn–peanut–cotton farmscapes. Maps of local clustering indices depicted small patches of C. hilaris in cotton or cotton–sorghum at the peanut–cotton interface. Factors affecting the spatiotemporal dynamics of C. hilaris in corn farmscapes are discussed.
Plasticity of skeletal muscle phenotype: mechanical consequences.

Muscles are complex biological machines that perform a wide variety of mechanical activities. Over the past 30 to 40 years, a large amount of effort has been devoted to understanding cellular/molecular responses of skeletal muscle to various altered physiological states (e.g., altered loading state induced via immobilization/spaceflight, resistance training). Many cellular/molecular adaptations brought about by such interventions act on underlying processes that regulate activation, force and velocity of shortening/lengthening, and relaxation. In this context, measurements of mechanical properties (e.g., force-velocity relationship) are important, because they can provide insight into the physiological consequences of such adaptations. During the course of the past 10 to 15 years, a number of investigators have employed the work-loop technique to provide a more realistic approach toward understanding muscle function. Additionally, the work-loop technique provides a unique conceptual perspective that integrates: (1) the length-tension relationship, (2) activation kinetics, (3) the force-velocity relationship in the shortening domain, (4) relaxation kinetics, (5) the force-velocity relationship in the lengthening domain, and (6) the compliance of the passive elastic elements. A discussion of those factors (i.e., factors 2-5) that appear to be highly malleable forms the basis of this paper.
Effect of Osteochondral Graft Insertion Forces on Chondrocyte Viability

BackgroundBecause chondrocytes are responsible for articular cartilage matrix synthesis and maintenance, reduced chondrocyte viability could compromise graft survival, healing, and clinical outcome.HypothesisTypical forces used in osteochondral grafting reduce the viability of the chondrocytes in the graft. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.MethodsOsteochondral grafting was performed in 4 fresh-frozen cadaver knees (n = 16 per knee). Impact force was measured during extrusion of the donor graft from the harvester into the recipient site, seating the graft flush with the articular surface of the surrounding cartilage using a tamp, and recessing the graft surface below the recipient articular surface. The magnitudes of forces measured during cadaver surgery (200,400, and 800 N) were reproduced using a drop-tower apparatus on 80 fresh osteochondral grafts harvested from knee blocks provided by tissue banks. Cell viability and glycosaminoglycan release in media were measured at 48 hours after injury.R...
Low temperature studies with colloidal silicic acid

Abstract 1. 1. Silica sols prepared with mineral acids and with ion-exchange resins have been frozen at −15°, −25°, −35°, −45°, −55°, −65°, and −190°C. 2. 2. The effects of hydrogen-ion concentration, rate of thawing, temperature of aging the frozen systems, and presence of electrolytes were investigated. 3. 3. The following factors were found to increase the stability of the systems: (a) low temperature of freezing, (b) low temperature of aging, (c) rapid rate of thawing, and (d) presence of lithium chloride and calcium chloride.
The development of an optimization procedure for the design of intelligent structures

Intelligent structures are structures which can actively react to an unpredictable environmental disturbance in a controlled manner. Piezoelectric materials are an excellent choice for the development of sensors and actuators for these structures due to their special properties. It is important to locate these discrete actuators optimally on the structure in order to achieve the most efficient implementation of their special properties. It is also necessary to design the structure to be controlled for optimum performance. This leads to a combined problem which includes the discrete actuator location problem and the continuous optimization problem involving control and structure interaction. A multiobjective optimization technique is used to formulate the problem. Optimum piezoelectric actuator thicknesses for the static case are determined for the active piezoelectric elements development in this work. An optimization procedure is then presented which includes actuator locations, vibration reduction, power consumption, minimization of dissipated energy and maximization of the natural frequency as design objectives. The procedure is demonstrated through a cantilever beam problem. Results obtained indicate that improved structural and control performance can be obtained with only a few optimally placed actuators.
The diagnosis and management of brain arteriovenous malformations

Although uncommon in the general population, cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) can pose a significant health risk if a rupture occurs. Advances in noninvasive imaging have led to an increase in the identification of unruptured AVMs, presenting new challenges in management, given their poorly understood natural history. Over the past decade, there have been significant developments in the management and treatment of intracranial AVMs. This article discusses the pathophysiology, natural history, clinical presentations, and current treatment options, including multimodal approaches, for these vascular malformations.
REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF CIRCULATING BLOOD DURING SUBMERSION ASPHYXIA IN THE DUCK.

Regional blood flow distribution in ducks was estimated from fractional distribution of Rb86CI. A comparison was made between normally breathing ducks and submerged ducks. The data document that conspicuous changes in regional blood flow take place upon submersion. The skin, skeletal muscle, and organs of the gastrointestinal system showed a marked decrease in activity in the submerged condition down to an average of 3.9 % for the gizzard, 29.4 % for skin excised from the thorax and 11.0 % for gastrocnemius muscle. Surprising exceptions to this were displayed by tissues in the cranial part of the animals. Thus both skin and muscle from the head region showed an increase in activity during submersion. The same was true for the excised eye. The esophagus similarly showed an increased activity in the submerged animals. The myocardium from both atria and ventricles showed a striking increase amounting to 4.1 times higher activity in the left ventricular myocardium in the submerged animals. The change in vasomotor constrictor tone taking place upon submersion is thus highly selective and possibly segmentally oriented giving an increase in peripheral resistance to most organs posterior to the heart while the most cranial tissues seem to be subjected to a general decrease in vasoconstrictor tone with an increased blood flow. Activity in the kidneys was markedly consistent and 9.1 % of the value found in normally breathing animals. The adrenals showed an interesting increase in activity on the average as high as 4.9 times the value in normally breathing animals.
Frequency Distribution of Elements in Rensselaer Graywacke, Troy, New York

Frequency distributions of the major/minor oxides SiO 2 , Al 2 O 3 , Fe 2 O 3 , MgO, MnO, CaO, SrO, BaO, TiO 2 , Na 2 O, K 2 O and the trace elements Ni, V, Cu, Be, Y, Zr, La, Sc and Cr for 119 samples of Rensselaer Graywacke were tested against both normal and log normal distribution models. Based on chi square and moments, the distribution of SiO 2 , Al 2 O 3 , SrO, BaO, Na 2 O. and Sc were compared against the normal distribution model, whereas Fe 2 O 3 , MgO, MnO, CaO, TiO 2 , K 2 O, Ni, V, Cu, Be, Y, Zr, La, and Cr were converted to natural logarithms and their distributions tested against the expected log normal model. Most distributions fail to strictly follow either of the proposed hypothetical distributions; however, SiO 2 , BaO, and Na 2 O closely approximate the normal distribution, whereas Fe 2 O 3 , MgO, K 2 O, Y, Zr, and La are similar to the log normal model. If we accept the “Prior Knowledge Concept,” that is, based on previous information, state that the frequency distributions of elements approximately follow either the normal or log normal law, we may attribute discrepancies from the theorized distribution model to nonrandom sampling of a stratified population or to sampling of more than one population. Alternatively the samples may represent random samples from a non-normal parent population. The Rensselaer, Franciscan (Bailey and others, 1964) and “average” graywacke of Pettijohn (1963) when compared against the “average” arkose, lithic arenite, and quartzite of Pettijohn (1963), are enriched in A1 2 O 3 , total iron, and Na 2 O and have Na 2 O/K 2 O ratios of greater than unity, whereas the other sedimentary rock types have ratios less than 1.0. The present investigation agrees with earlier findings that graywackes have Na 2 O/K 2 O ratios of greater than unity; this appears to be a peculiarity of high-rank graywackes. The concentrations of trace elements Ni, V, Cu, and Cr in the Rensselaer are lower than the crustal abundance, whereas Y, Zr, La, and Sc are higher in concentration. Concentrations greater or less than ten times the crustal abundance, are not apparent. The Graywacke is enriched in La and Sc 60 and 26 times respectively over Pettijohn9s element range for sandstones (1963); all remaining trace elements are in favorable agreement. Hence, in chemistry the Rensselaer Gray-wacke appears to represent closely the composition of the “average” earth9s crust.
Munchausen Syndrome: A Review and New Conceptualization

For more than 40 years, the literature on Munchausen syndrome has primarily focused on presenting cases describing the often intriguing and tragic experiences of individuals who have presented to hospitals with self-inflicted illnesses. Due to the nature of this disorder, many patients are never seen by psychological or psychiatric personnel, and thus, assessment results and preferred treatment options are understandably limited. Despite the paucity of research conducted with patients diagnosed with Munchausen syndrome, etio-logical models for this disorder have been proposed, notably object relations and psychodynamic theories. Although both models present rationales for the development of this disorder, the two theories fail to account for several aspects of the disorder. In this article, an overview of Munchausen syndrome and existing theories is presented. In addition, a diathesis-stress model of Munchausen syndrome is proposed with future directions for research.
Measuring the utility of journals in the crime-psychology field: Beyond the impact factor

A measure of formal journal utility designed to offset some of the more noteworthy limitations of the impact factor (IF)—i.e., short follow-up, citations to items in the numerator that are not included in the denominator, self-citations, and the greater citation rate of review articles—was constructed and applied to 15 crime-psychology journals. This measure, referred to as Citations Per Article (CPA), was correlated with a measure of informal journal utility defined as the frequency with which 58 first authors in the field consulted these 15 crime-psychology journals. Results indicated that the CPA, but not the IF, correlated significantly with informal utility. Two journals (Law and Human Behavior and Criminal Justice and Behavior) displayed consistently high impact across measures of formal and informal utility while several other journals (Journal of Interpersonal Violence; Psychology, Public Policy, and Law; Sexual Abuse: A Journal of Research and Treatment; and Behavioral Sciences and the Law) showed signs of moderate impact when formal and informal measures were combined. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evidence against Calcium as a Mediator of Mitochondrial Dysfunction during Apoptosis Induced by Arachidonic Acid and Other Free Fatty Acids

Apoptosis is often accompanied by activation of phospholipase A 2 , causing release of free fatty acids (FFAs), which in turn are thought to contribute to the loss of mitochondrial transmembrane potential (Δψ m ). In these experiments, we asked whether calcium plays a role as an intermediate in this process. A total of 14 FFAs were compared for their ability to cause loss of Δψ m and for their ability to affect levels of intracellular calcium. Among the FFAs, unsaturated FFAs tended to induce apoptosis while saturated FFAs did not. Arachidonic acid (AA) was most damaging, causing loss of Δψ m and cell death in 8–10 h while linoleic acid, γ-linolenic acid, and docosapentaenoic also strongly induced apoptosis. Effects of the FFAs on levels of intracellular calcium were very different. Many caused strong calcium responses; however, the ability to induce a strong calcium response was not predictive of ability to induce apoptosis, and overall, we did not find a correlation between apoptosis and calcium induction. Also, verapamil and TMB-8 were able to block the calcium response, but these inhibitors did not prevent loss of Δψ m , indicating that the calcium response is not necessary for FFA-induced loss of Δψ m . In contrast, we found that cyclosporine A could inhibit the AA-induced loss of Δψ m with both whole cells and isolated mitochondria, confirming that the antimitochondrial effects of FFA can stem from direct effects on the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Finally, we show that the strong apoptosis-inducing activity of AA may stem from its ability to selectively induce its own release.
Demonstration of All-Optical Multi-Wavelength Message Routing for Silicon Photonic Networks

We demonstrate all-optical switching of 20 wavelength channels simultaneously in a silicon broadband comb switch, and perform single-channel BER measurements through both ports. A statistical characterization of the insertion loss and extinction ratio is included.
High-Resolution Array CGH and Gene Expression Profiling of Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma

Purpose: Alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) is a soft tissue sarcoma with poor prognosis, and little molecular evidence exists for its origin, initiation, and progression. The aim of this study was to elucidate candidate molecular pathways involved in tumor pathogenesis. Experimental Design: We employed high-throughput array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and cDNA-Mediated Annealing, Selection, Ligation, and Extension Assay to profile the genomic and expression signatures of primary and metastatic ASPS from 17 tumors derived from 11 patients. We used an integrative bioinformatics approach to elucidate the molecular pathways associated with ASPS progression. FISH was performed to validate the presence of the t(X;17)(p11.2;q25) ASPL–TFE3 fusion and, hence, confirm the aCGH observations. Results: FISH analysis identified the ASPL–TFE3 fusion in all cases. aCGH revealed a higher number of numerical aberrations in metastatic tumors relative to primaries, but failed to identify consistent alterations in either group. Gene expression analysis highlighted 1,063 genes that were differentially expressed between the two groups. Gene set enrichment analysis identified 16 enriched gene sets ( P PAX6 was upregulated in the primary tumors, along with several genes whose mouse orthologs have previously been implicated in Pax6 DNA binding during neural stem cell differentiation. Conclusion: In addition to suggesting a tentative neural line of differentiation for ASPS, these results implicate transcriptional deregulation from fusion genes in the pathogenesis of ASPS. Clin Cancer Res; 20(6); 1521–30. ©2014 AACR .
Valve-sparing aortic root replacement in Loeys-Dietz syndrome.

Background Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) is a recently recognized aggressive aortic disorder characterized by root aneurysm, arterial tortuosity, hypertelorism, and bifid uvula or cleft palate. The results of prophylactic root replacement using valve-sparing procedures (valve-sparing root replacement [VSRR]) in patients with LDS is not known. Methods We reviewed all patients with clinical and genetic (transforming growth factor-β receptor mutations) evidence of LDS who underwent VSRR at our institution. Echocardiographic and clinical data were obtained from hospital and follow-up clinic records. Results From 2002 to 2009, 31 patients with a firm diagnosis of LDS underwent VSRR for aortic root aneurysm. Mean age was 15 years, and 24 (77%) were children. One (3%) patient had a bicuspid aortic valve. Preoperative sinus diameter was 3.9 ± 0.8 cm ( z score 7.0 ± 2.9) and 2 (6%) had greater than 2+ aortic insufficiency. Thirty patients (97%) underwent reimplantation procedures using a Valsalva graft. There were no operative deaths. Mean follow-up was 3.6 years (range, 0 to 7 years). One patient required late repair of a pseudoaneurysm at the distal aortic anastomosis, and 1 had a conversion to a David reimplantation procedure after a Florida sleeve operation. No patient suffered thromboembolism or endocarditis, and 1 (3%) patient experienced greater than 2+ late aortic insufficiency. No patient required late aortic valve repair or replacement. Conclusions Loeys-Dietz syndrome is an aggressive aortic aneurysm syndrome that can be addressed by prophylactic aortic root replacement with low operative risk. Valve-sparing procedures have encouraging early and midterm results, similar to those in Marfan syndrome, and are an attractive option for young patients.
eIF2α kinases control chalone production in Dictyostelium discoideum.

ABSTRACT Growing Dictyostelium cells secrete CfaD and AprA, two proteins that have been characterized as chalones. They exist within a high-molecular-weight complex that reversibly inhibits cell proliferation, but not growth, via cell surface receptors and a signaling pathway that includes G proteins. How the production of these two proteins is regulated is unknown. Dictyostelium cells possess three GCN2-type eukaryotic initiation factor 2 α subunit (eIF2α) kinases, proteins that phosphorylate the translational initiation factor eIF2α and possess a tRNA binding domain involved in their regulation. The Dictyostelium kinases have been shown to function during development in regulating several processes. We show here that expression of an unregulated, activated kinase domain greatly inhibits cell proliferation. The inhibitory effect on proliferation is not due to a general inhibition of translation. Instead, it is due to enhanced production of a secreted factor(s). Indeed, extracellular CfaD and AprA proteins, but not their mRNAs, are overproduced in cells expressing the activated kinase domain. The inhibition of proliferation is not seen when the activated kinase domain is expressed in cells lacking CfaD or AprA or in cells that contain a nonphosphorylatable eIF2α. We conclude that production of the chalones CfaD and AprA is translationally regulated by eIF2α phosphorylation. Both proteins are upregulated at the culmination of development, and this enhanced production is lacking in a strain that possesses a nonphosphorylatable eIF2α.
On estimation of noise variance in linear dynamic systems by multiple observers

The use of multiple observers as a practical solution to the problem of determining the variances of the noise that excite a dynamic process or are present in observing it is discussed. The method is relatively easy to implement and does not require extraordinary computer resources, and at least in several examples studied by simulation, it can give acceptable performance. The method was tested on data obtained from real gyros. Since the true value of the parameters were, of course, unknown in these cases, it was not possible to determine how well the method works for real data; it was determined, however, that the results obtained by this method were in reasonably good agreement with the results obtained by the standard algorithm embodied in the test equipment. This is further favorable evidence that the method is practical. >
Broadband extreme-ultraviolet survey spectrometer for short-time-scale experiments

A fast and inexpensive spectrometer system has been developed to record extreme-UV impurity spectra in a magnetic-fusion-research device. To simplify the vacuum system, light is passed out of the spectrometer's vacuum to the detector with a sodium-salicylate-coated, fiber-optic coupler. This coupler is positioned so that the focal field is nearly flat over its aperture. The system's detector is a microchannelplate- intensified, linear, self-scanning photodiode array. The 1024-pixel array covers a bandwidth greater than 80 nm and is read out once every millisecond. The readout, which is four times faster than the manufacturer's maximum rating, is fully synchronized to the experiment by a locally designed control circuit.
Decentralized and adaptive control of nonlinear fluid flow networks

In this paper we solve a decentralized nonlinear control problem where actuator valves and flow rate sensors are collocated in individual branches and do not exchange information. This is in contrast to our previous paper where a centralized controller required measurements from all the branches of the network. We solve both regulation (constant references) and tracking (time varying reference signals) problems. To eliminate conservativeness in choosing the gains of the controllers, we employ adaptation. We illustrate the results with an example reminiscent of a blood flow network.
Euler's Pentagonal Number Theorem

(1983). Euler's Pentagonal Number Theorem. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 56, No. 5, pp. 279-284.