cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Imprecise Knowledge of the Selection Channel on Steganalysis

It has recently been shown that steganalysis of content-adaptive steganography can be improved when the Warden incorporates in her detector the knowledge of the selection channel -- the probabilities with which the individual cover elements were modified during embedding. Such attacks implicitly assume that the Warden knows at least approximately the payload size. In this paper, we study the loss of detection accuracy when the Warden uses a selection channel that was imprecisely determined either due to lack of information or the stego changes themselves. The loss is investigated for two types of qualitatively different detectors -- binary classifiers equipped with selection-channel-aware rich models and optimal detectors derived using the theory of hypothesis testing from a cover model. Two different embedding paradigms are addressed -- steganography based on minimizing distortion and embedding that minimizes the detectability of an optimal detector within a chosen cover model. Remarkably, the experimental and theoretical evidence are qualitatively in agreement across different embedding methods, and both point out that inaccuracies in the selection channel do not have a strong effect on steganalysis detection errors. It pays off to use imprecise selection channel rather than none. Our findings validate the use of selection-channel-aware detectors in practice.
Multistate survey of primary care physician and midlevel provider attitudes toward community pharmacists.

Objectives To assess and compare the attitudes of primary care physicians and midlevel providers toward community pharmacists by surveying the frequency and perceived helpfulness of practitioner-pharmacist interactions, as well as attitudes toward traditional and expanded functions. Methods A sample of primary care physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners (n = 3,851) in eight western states was mailed a survey. The survey used 5-point Likert-type scales to assess the frequency and helpfulness of interactions with community pharmacists, as well as level of agreement with specific statements relating to pharmacists' current and possible expanded roles. Responses ranged from +2 (very frequently/very helpful/strongly agree) to −2 (very infrequently/not helpful at all/strongly disagree). Results 799 analyzable questionnaires were received. On average, midlevel providers interacted with pharmacists more frequently (median −0.23 and −0.51 for midlevels and physicians, respectively, P P P Conclusion Most primary care physicians and midlevel providers support the current role of community pharmacists. Midlevel providers appeared to interact more frequently with pharmacists and indicated higher average helpfulness ratings for pharmacists. For pharmaceutical care to be realized in the community setting, a concerted effort by the pharmacy profession will be necessary to further demonstrate its benefits and feasibility. Midlevel providers may be helpful in facilitating this process.
Antenatal hydronephrosis current evaluation and management

Use of antenatal ultrasound for evaluation of congenital anomalies in early pregnancy has become a common practice. Hydronephrosis is the most common anomaly observed. Urologists are being referred such cases more frequently. Prenatal intervention is experimental and being done in advanced centers. Though there are defined criteria of intervention, it is still not clear as to who will benefit. Majority of patients develop urinary insufficiency postnatally. This review was undertaken to discuss the issues in evaluation, diagnosis and management of neonates born with hydronephrosis diagnosed on prenatal ultrasound. Most patients will have relatively benign course, however identification of those who will have potentially serious postnatal problems, permits early intervention.
Disturbance Tracking Control and Blade Load Mitigation for Variable-Speed Wind Turbines

A composite linear state-space controller was developed for a multi-objective problem in the variable-speed operation of wind turbines. Disturbance Tracking Control theory was applied to the design of a torque controller to optimize energy capture under the influence of persistent wind disturbances. A limitation in the theory for common multi-state models is described; this led to the design of a complementary pitch controller The goal of the independent blade pitch design was to minimize blade root fatigue loads. A SymDyn model of a two-bladed, 600-kW machine was used for the simulation studies. Results indicate a 24% reduction in blade fatigue damage using the proposed controllers, compared to a conventional torque-only design. However, energy capture was not improved as much as expected, partly due to nonlinearity effects degrading the performance of the state-space estimator design. Tower base fatigue damage was shown to decrease significantly using active pitch.
Can goal-based advance planning guide medical care in the nursing home?

Objective To determine whether a goal-based system of advance planning, which allows patients to choose among five “pathways of care” (longevous, ameliorative/comprehensive, ameliorative/basic, palliative/comfort, or palliative/hospice), enables physicians to select treatment options in specified clinical situations. Design A pencil and paper test was administered in which clinicians were presented five common clinical scenarios and were asked which of four possible treatment options they would recommend, given a predetermined “pathway of care.” Setting A 725-bed teaching nursing home and affiliated continuing care retirement community. Measurements The proportion of correct answers was measured for each clinician, for each clinical scenario, and for each pathway. Results Of the test answers, 78% coincided with the reference answers. The greatest rate of correct answers was found for the ameliorative/comprehensive pathway and the palliative/hospice pathway. Conclusion Establishing pathways of care by asking nursing home residents to prioritize their goals of care may help clinicians narrow the range of appropriate options when facing an acute medical problem.
Thermal modeling and analysis of structurally complex spacecraft using the IDEAS system

Large antenna satellites of unprecedented sizes are needed for a number of applications. Antenna diameters on the order of 50 meters and upward are required. Such antennas involve the use of large expanses of lattice structures with hundreds or thousands of individual connecting members. In connection with the design of such structures, the consideration of thermal effects represents a crucial factor. Software capabilities have emerged which are coded to include major first order thermal effects and to purposely ignore, in the interest of computational efficiency, the secondary effects. The Interactive Design and Evaluation of Advanced Spacecraft (IDEAS) is one such system. It has been developed for an employment in connection with thermal-structural interaction analyses related to the design of large structurally complex classes of future spacecraft. An IDEAS overview is presented. Attention is given to a typical antenna analysis using IDEAS, the thermal and loading analyses of a tetrahedral truss spacecraft, and ecliptic and polar orbit analyses.
Blood viscosity and hematology of American bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana) at low temperature

(1) The purpose of this study was to evaluate hematological properties and blood viscosity in bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana) submerged and exposed to prolonged low temperature. (2) Blood was collected from bullfrogs submerged in aerated water for 0, 20 or 50 days at 5°C, and those kept at 25°C. (3) No significant differences were found in hematocrit, hemoglobin, red blood cell count (RBCC), mean cell volume, apparent viscosity, plasma viscosity, or relative viscosity. (4) Plasma osmolality significantly decreased (P<0.001) in 5°C groups relative to the 25°C group. (5) Bullfrogs maintained a constant hematocrit, RBCC, and hemoglobin concentrations despite potential hemodilution, suggesting that bullfrogs could maintain a constant hematocrit during hibernation.
Sternal plating for the treatment of sternal nonunion

Background. Sternal nonunion, defined as sternal pain with clicking, instability, or both for more than 6 months in the absence of infection, is an uncommon complication of median sternotomy. Nonunion is frequently complicated by the presence of multiple transverse fractures, which make simple rewiring inadequate. Methods. Six patients with debilitating pain secondary to sternal nonunion were treated with the technique of sternal plating between 1989 and 1995. Results. Sternal plating corrected sternal instability and provided excellent pain relief in all 6 patients. All patients reported an improved quality of life and were able to resume recreational activities. Two patients have had plate removal for late bursa formation. Sternal healing was complete in both instances. Conclusions. Sternal plating, which is based on the tension-band principle, is an effective treatment of sternal nonunion. The technique is applicable to both simple and complex nonunions. The stainless steel plates resist bending stresses, and the cortical bone resists compressive forces. The technique requires minimal dissection of the posterior sternal border, is not circumferential, and provides secure sternal approximation.
Comparison of intraprostatic ethanol diffusion using a microporous hollow fiber catheter versus a standard needle.

Purpose: Transurethral intraprostatic ethanol chemoablation of the prostate has shown promising preliminary clinical results for benign prostatic hyperplasia with some variability in clinical outcome. This is likely due to the uneven prostate diffusion caused by varying resistance of the tissue type in which the tip of the needle is embedded. We examined whether the distribution of the injectable in the canine prostate could be improved using a microporous hollow fiber catheter (Twin Star Medical, Minneapolis, Minnesota).Materials and Methods: The prostate was exposed in 9 mongrel dogs. A single injection of 98% ethanol was delivered in each lobe using a microporous hollow fiber catheter and a standard needle. Prostates were harvested and fixed in 10% formalin. After injection 2.5 mm step sections were obtained and scanned. The ethanol induced tissue lesions were traced on hematoxylin and eosin sections. Three-dimensional reconstructions were created and the volume of each prostate lesion was calculated u...
A social systems approach to improve mental health collaboration and ethnic relations in Cyprus

Systems scientists can play an important role in analyzing ethnic tensions and designing innovative approaches to sustaining peaceful relationships between groups with a history of inter-ethnic violence. A social systems approach was applied in a feasibility study sponsored by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The purpose of the humanitarian project was to improve ethnic relations and collaboration between Greek and Turkish Cypriots in Cyprus, and to determine the feasibility of establishing a bicommunal mental health unit. The project consultants conducted a mental health needs assessment of both communities and analyzed information from multiple sources and different perspectives. A follow-up workshop with a bicommunal team was held in the USA to facilitate development of the mental health unit. The study provided useful knowledge on systems-oriented action research to improve ethnic relations in a complex social and political environment. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ethical Issues in Genetic Therapy

Ethical issues in genetic therapy involve the use of genetic science for human good and the avoidance of preventable harms. Immediate issues are the control and confidentiality of results of genetic testing, possible discrimination against those found to have genetic diseases, and the just allocation of beneficial genetic therapies. Less practical, but possibly more significant, dilemmas involve the use of genetic science in ways that go beyond prevention and cure of disease. Such use as trait enhancement and "neo-eugenics" raise troubling ethical concerns.
Profile of an inpatient population with a history of illicit drug use.

Using a data retrieval system, information was obtained from the records of all patients discharged over a three-year period with a primary or secondary diagnosis of illicit drug use. From 1987–1989, the number of patients and number of hospital days for patients with such diagnoses increased steadily. Seventy four percent of inpatients identified as users of illicit drugs were less than 35 years of age; this percentage was greatly influenced by the percentage (44–48%) of obstetrical patients in the population. Hospital charges for the major source of payment for the identified group exceeded $5 million in 1989. Medicaid was the major source of payment for the hospital care; the average length of hospital stay for that portion of the patients increased about 1.4 days over the three-year period. The number of hospitalized patients identified as users of illicit drugs increased over the period of study, and the population depended heavily on government sources for payment of inpatient services.
The health benefits of eating salmon.

The recent Report by R. A. Hites et al. about toxic contaminants in salmon (“Global assessment of organic contaminants in farmed salmon,” 9 Jan., p. [226][1]) may have unintended negative consequences on human health. Yes, the source of toxic contaminants in farmed fish should be investigated
Salmonella java colitis mimiking Crohn's disease exacerbation

Purpose: Case: A 40 year old African-American female was admitted to the hospital with 2 days history of crampy, non-radiating, periumbilical pain, nausea, bilious vomiting, large volume non-bloody diarrhea, fever, and chills. Patient had had terminal ilectomy for Crohn's ileitis approximately 20 years ago. However, patient had been in clinical remission without any maintenance therapy. Patient had been shopping for iguanas five days prior to onset of her sickness. No other family members had similar symptoms. She had a fever of 104|[deg]| F, hypotension (BP of 80|[sol]|60 mmHg), dry mucous membrane, diffuse abdominal tenderness mainly in RLQ, hyperactive bowel sounds, and no peritoneal signs. Rest of physical examination was otherwise normal.
Persistent North-South Alignment of the Solar Supergranulation

We have found evidence of an alignment of the solar supergranulation in the direction parallel to the Sun's rotation axis. Signatures of the alignment are apparent in both time-averaged images and in three-dimensional power spectra. The north-south organization is persistent in time, extending over many supergranular lifetimes. It occurs over a wide latitudinal extent, to ±60°, and shows variation on a 10°-30° scale. These properties, as well as the rotation rate of the pattern, suggest a underlying larger scale dynamical cause. We examine a mechanism by which giant cell motions may contribute to such alignment.
Ocular effects of radiofrequency energy.

Radiofrequency (RF) energy has been reported to cause a variety of ocular effects, primarily cataracts but also effects on the retina, cornea, and other ocular systems. Cataracts have been observed in experimental animals when one eye was exposed to a localized, very high RF field and the other eye was the unexposed control. The results show that 2450 MHz exposures for ≥30 min at power densities causing extremely high dose rates (≥150 W/kg) and temperatures (≥41°C) in or near the lens caused cataracts in the rabbit eye. However, cataracts were not observed in the monkey eye exposed to similar exposure conditions, reflecting the different patterns of energy absorption (SAR, specific absorption rate) distribution, due to their different facial structure. Since the monkey head is similar in structure to the human head, the nonhuman primate study showed that the incident power density levels causing cataracts in rabbits and other laboratory animals cannot be directly extrapolated to primates, including human beings. It is reasonable to assume that an SAR that would induce temperatures ≥41°C in or near the lens in the human eye would produce cataracts by the same mechanism (heating) that caused cataracts in the rabbit lens; however, such an exposure would greatly exceed the currently allowable limits for human exposure and would be expected to cause unacceptable effects in other parts of the eye and face. Other ocular effects including corneal lesions, retinal effects, and changes in vascular permeability, have been observed after localized exposure of the eye of laboratory animals to both continuous wave (CW) and pulsed wave (PW) exposures, but the inconsistencies in these results, the failure to independently confirm corneal lesions after CW exposure, the failure to independently confirm retinal effects after PW exposure, and the absence of functional changes in vision are reasons why these ocular effects are not useful in defining an adverse effect level for RF exposure. While cataracts develop after localized exposure of the eye at SARs ≥ 150 W/kg, whole body exposure at much lower levels (14–42 W/kg) is lethal to rabbits. Two studies reported cataracts in this animal after 30 daily exposures at SARs at the upper end of the lethal range, e.g., 38–42 W/kg; however, long term exposure of rabbits (23 h/day, 6 months) at 1.5 W/kg (17 W/kg in the rabbit head) did not cause cataracts or other ocular effects. A long term (1–4 years) investigation of monkeys exposed at high SARs (20 and 40 W/kg to the monkey face) found no cataracts or other ocular effects or change in visual capability. The results of these long term studies support the conclusion that clinically significant ocular effects, including cataracts, have not been confirmed in human populations exposed for long periods of time to low level RF energy. The results of four recent human studies show that there is no clear evidence of an association between RF exposure and ocular cancer. Bioelectromagnetics Supplement 6:S148–S161, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
“Money illusion” and migration decisions: An international comparison of the United States and Canadian experiences

Cebula R. J. (1981) “Money illusion” and migration decisions: an international comparison of the United States and Canadian experiences, Reg. Studies 15, 241–246. This paper argues that migrant behaviour should be, in the absence of “money illusion”, sensitive to geographic living-cost differentials. The empirical findings of this paper strongly imply that, in the United States and Canada, the cost of living is an important determinant of migration patterns and that omission of the living-cost variable from the migration regression constitutes a specification error. Thus, failure to account for living-cost differentials will likely result in a misspecified model and in questionable empirical results.
Evidence for involvement of superantigens in human periodontal diseases: skewed expression of T cell receptor variable regions by gingival T cells

Immunomodulation by periodontopathic bacteria has been implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory periodontal diseases. A novel class of microbial-derived T cell mitogens, referred to as superantigens, has recently been described. Superantigens are unique in that they induce a tremendous activation and expansion of specific subsets of T cells in an antigen-independent manner, thereby causing immune dysfunction. Subsets of superantigen-expanded T cells can be identified with reagents that discriminate among different families of the variable domains of the T cell antigen receptor beta-chain (V beta). Since superantigens expand one or a few of these T cell antigen receptor V beta families, T cell subsets that have been expanded by superantigens have restricted expression of one or a few V beta families. In the present study, we investigated the presence of putative superantigen-stimulated T cells in periodontitis sites, utilizing a panel monoclonal antibodies to T cell antigen receptor V beta families. Leukocytes were isolated from gingival tissues obtained from 8 periodontitis and 4 non-periodontitis patients by collagenase digestion. Three-color flow cytometric analysis of these gingival cells demonstrated that in most periodontitis patients examined, patterns of V beta expression among T cells are characteristic of superantigen stimulation, i.e., there is an elevation in the proportion of one or a few V beta families. Specifically, these analyses revealed that T cell subsets expressing V beta 5a and V beta 5b, V beta 6, V beta 8 and V beta 12 were each elevated greater than 2 standard deviations in at least one periodontitis patient compared with the mean of the non-periodontitis subjects. In some periodontitis patients, a less marked elevation of T cells that express V beta 3, V beta 5a, V beta 5b, V beta 6, V beta 8, V beta 12, and V beta 13 was noted (greater than 1 standard deviation higher than the mean of the V beta families in non-periodontics subjects). Interestingly, V beta 8+ T cells were elevated to some degree in all periodontitis patients examined. In contrast, T cells expressing V beta 2, V beta 17 and V beta 19 were not significantly different in any of the subjects studied. In most periodontitis but not non-periodontitis patients, up to 50% of all gingival T cells expressed one or a few T cell antigen receptor V beta families, suggesting that superantigens constitute a major pathway of T cell activation and expansion. Hence, our data support the hypothesis that a large proportion of T cells in periodontitis sites have been stimulated and expanded by superantigens, presumably produced by periodontitis-associated bacteria.
Effects of Chlorhexidine on Human Taste Perception

Chlorhexidine, a bis-cationic biguanide antiseptic, greatly reduces the perceived intensity of the salty prototype sodium chloride and may prove to be an important probe of mechanisms that underlie the human salty taste quality. Chlorhexidine, which tastes bitter, also reduces quinine hydrochloride taste intensity, but neither sweet sucrose nor sour citric acid is affected. Perceptual intensity rating and quality identification were measured for human subjects before and for 30 min following treatment with 1.34 mM chlorhexidine gluconate. In one experiment, test stimuli were the taste-quality prototypes; in a second experiment, stimuli were series of sodium, halide and sulfate salts. Experiment 1 showed a single 3-min chlorhexidine treatment resulted in reductions in taste intensity that persisted for at least 30 min. Experiment 2 showed a single 2-min chlorhexidine treatment reduced perceptual intensities of halide and sulfate salts except those with divalent cations. Chlorhexidine impaired identification of the salty quality and produced a bitter quality in nonbitter salts and impaired identification of the bitter quality of quinine, but not bitter salts. The specific effect of chlorhexidine on the bitterness of quinine suggests it may bind to the same receptor as quinine. The ability of chlorhexidine to specifically disrupt saltiness of a wide range of salts is consistent with proposed peripheral transduction mechanisms for the salty quality that involve transepithelial ion transport.
(3He, α) reactions on actinide elements

Abstract The [743ů] Nilsson configuration in 237U is identified by a study of the 238U(3He, α)237U reaction. An intense l=7 transition to the 15 2 − level of this band is observed.
Comparison of Extensive Thermal Cycling Effects on Microstructure Development in Micro-alloyed Sn-Ag-Cu Solder Joints

Pb-free solder alloys based on the Sn-Ag-Cu (SAC) ternary eutectic have promise for widespread adoption across assembly conditions and operating environments, but enhanced microstructural control is needed. Micro-alloying with elements such as Zn was demonstrated for promoting a preferred solidification path and joint microstructure earlier in simple (Cu/Cu) solder joints studies for different cooling rates. This beneficial behavior now has been verified in reworked ball grid array (BGA) joints, using dissimilar SAC305 (Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu, wt.%) solder paste. After industrial assembly, BGA components joined with Sn-3.5Ag-0.74Cu-0.21Zn solder were tested in thermal cycling (−55°C/+125°C) along with baseline SAC305 BGA joints beyond 3000 cycles with continuous failure monitoring. Weibull analysis of the results demonstrated that BGA components joined with SAC + Zn/SAC305 have less joint integrity than SAC305 joints, but their lifetime is sufficient for severe applications in consumer, defense, and avionics electronic product field environments. Failure analysis of the BGA joints revealed that cracking did not deviate from the typical top area (BGA component side) of each joint, in spite of different Ag3Sn blade content. Thus, SAC + Zn solder has not shown any advantage over SAC305 solder in these thermal cycling trials, but other characteristics of SAC + Zn solder may make it more attractive for use across the full range of harsh conditions of avionics or defense applications.
Influence of extracellular matrix proteins on membrane potentials and excitability in NG108-15 cells

Previous studies have demonstrated that components of the extracellular matrix can induce neurite extension and cell adhesion in the neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid cell line, NG108-15. Using standard intracellular recording techniques, we examined the resting membrane potential (RMP) and membrane excitability of NG108-15 cells differentiated under serum-free media with representative extracellular matrix (ECM) protein components as the substrate. Surfaces coated with collagen IV and a laminin-1 synthetic peptide induced a significantly (P or =8 days in culture NG108-15 cells plated on polystyrene exhibited a RMP of -33.2+/-0.8 mV (mean+/-SEM, n=158 cells) whereas cells cultured on the laminin-1 peptide C16 and collagen IV showed a RMP of -37.6+/-0.7 mV (n=157) and -37.5+/-1.5 mV (n=68), respectively. Furthermore, the proportions of cells on ECM substrates showing membrane excitability, i.e. evoked action potentials (APs) and the capability for regular firing, were significantly greater compared to those cells cultured on polystyrene. Among excitable cells cultured on the different substrates, characteristics of the action potentials, such as AP duration, amplitude, and the maximum rate of rise, dV/dtMAX, were examined in detail. While little or no differences were observed between polystyrene and the laminin-1 peptide groups, significant differences in the AP parameters were apparent for collagen IV. For example, dV/dtMAX for polystyrene and the laminin-1 peptide C16 were only 71.7+/-24.5 V/s (n=11) and 59.0+/-8.9 V/s (n=9), respectively, whereas cells cultured on collagen IV surfaces exhibited a dV/dtMAX reaching 156.1+/-22.0 V/s (n=7). These data support a role for ECM components in the maintenance of the RMP and membrane excitability in NG108-15 cells.
A model for the effect of the progression of irradiation-induced recrystallization from initiation to completion on swelling of UO2 and U-10Mo nuclear fuels

Abstract Analytical expressions are derived for the progression of recrystallization from initiation to completion, and for the swelling due to fission-gas. It is demonstrated that these phenomena can be simulated in both UO2 and in U–xMo with the same theory, albeit with various property differences. Results of the calculations are compared with available data.
A preliminary analysis of the suppressive effects of denatonium saccharide

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the aversive effects of denatonium saccharide. In Experiment 1, four concentrations of denatonium saccharide were employed in a single-bottle testing procedure that allowed rat subjects access to fluids once daily. Transient suppression effects were shown only by the most potent concentrations. In Experiment 2, the addition of an alternate source of water administered 2 h after experimental testing resulted in strong, lasting suppressive effects under single- and two-bottle testing procedures. The results of these experiments suggest that denatonium saccharide has excellent potential as a deterrent.
Fibrosis in systemic sclerosis: Emerging concepts and implications for targeted therapy

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex and incompletely understood disease associated with fibrosis in multiple organs. Recent findings identify transforming growth factor-s (TGF-s), Wnt ligands, toll-like receptor-mediated signaling, hypoxia, type I interferon, type 2 immune responses and mechanical stress as extracellular cues that modulate fibroblast function and differentiation, and as potential targets for therapy. Moreover, fibrillin-1 has a major role in storing and regulating the bioavailability of TGF-s and other cytokines, and fibrillin-1 mutations are implicated in a congenital form of scleroderma called stiff skin syndrome. Fibrosis is due not only to the activation of tissue-resident fibroblasts and their transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts, but also the differentiation of bone marrow-derived fibrocytes, and transition of endothelial and epithelial cells, pericytes and adipocytes into activated mesenchymal cells. These responses are modulated by signaling mediators and microRNAs that amplify or inhibit TGF-s and Wnt signaling. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function abnormalities of these mediators may account for the characteristic activated phenotype of SSc fibroblasts. The nuclear orphan receptor PPAR-γ plays a particularly important role in limiting the duration and intensity of fibroblast activation and differentiation, and impaired PPAR-γ expression or function in SSc may underlie the uncontrolled progression of fibrosis. Identifying the perturbations in signaling pathways, mediators and differentiation programs that are responsible for SSc tissue damage allows their selective targeting. This in turn opens the door for therapies utilizing novel compounds, or drug repurposing by innovative uses of already-approved drugs. In view of the heterogeneous clinical presentation and unpredictable course of SSc, as well as its complex pathogenesis, only robust clinical trials incorporating the judicious application of biomarkers will be able to clarify the clinical utility of these innovative approaches.
Gustav Landgren: Hermann Hesses Roßhalde, Klingsors letzter Sommer und Steppenwolf im Kontext von Kunstkritik, Künstlerkrise und Intermedialität, Acta Universitatis Upsaliensis. Studia Germanistica Upsaliensia 56. Dissertation Uppsala, 2011

Trotz oder vielleicht gerade wegen seiner anhaltenden, weltweiten Popularitat scheint das Werk Hermann Hesses sich neuen methodischen Ansatzen gegenuber zu verweigern. Dies mag daher kommen, dass s...
Teratogenic evaluation of 1,1,3,3-tetrabutylurea in the rat following dermal exposure

Abstract The teratogenic potential of 1,1,3,3-tetrabutylurea (TBU) was evaluated in the Crl:CD(SD)BR rat. Doses of 25, 50 or 100 mg TBU/rat/day in 0.5 ml dimethyl phthalate were applied to the shaven dorsal skin on days 6–15 of gestation, the day on which a sperm-positive vaginal smear was present being designated day 1. The rats were killed 1 day before natural delivery and the foetuses were examined for external development, structure and integrity of internal tissues and organs, and skeletal development. No maternal effects were seen in rats exposed to 25 mg TBU, but skin irritation and a reduction in maternal body-weight gains were seen in rats treated with either 50 or 100 mg/day, the effects being more pronounced in the 100-mg/day group. In the latter group, the number of pregnancies maintained was reduced and the number of resorptions per litter, calculated only on the litters with resorptions, was increased. Foetuses derived from the females treated with 100 mg/day were slightly smaller than the controls but were structurally normal. The outcome of pregnancy was unaltered in rats given either 25 or 50 mg TBU/day. No increase in malformed foetuses was observed in any of the test groups. Under the conditions of this study, TBU was not teratogenic when applied dermally to rats at doses up to 100 mg/day.
Arachidonic acid inhibits electrically induced intracellular calcium transients in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes

Abstract Calcium transients in single rat cardiomyocytes were inhibited by arachidonic acid (AA) exposure in a concentration-dependent (25–100 μM) and reversible manner.
Long-term deficits in quadriceps strength and activation following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Abstract Objective Even some time after a ruptured ACL has been reconstructed thigh musculature atrophy, voluntary activation, and knee-extensor strength deficits may be encountered. The purpose of this study was to evaluate bilateral knee-extension strength, voluntary activation of the quadriceps, and thigh circumference in males and females with ACL reconstruction (ACLR). Design and participants Within-subject and between-subject designs were used to evaluate 24 unilateral ACLR individuals and 23 controls. Main outcome measures Isokinetic knee-extension strength was assessed in ACLR participants while central activation ratio (CAR) and thigh circumference measures were obtained from both groups. Results Knee-extensor strength deficits ( p p = .047). Extensor strength was greater in males ( p p = .086). No difference in voluntary activation was revealed among the ACLR limb, uninvolved limb, and control limb when compared as independent groups ( p = .460). The strength deficits found in the ACLR limb are partly attributable to lower voluntary activation compared to the uninvolved leg, given that no difference was found in thigh circumference between legs. Conclusion Clinicians should consider the deficits in muscle function when returning patients to pre-injury activity levels.
A Mathematical Model for Simple Learning

A mathematical model for simple learning is presented. Changes in the probability of occurrence of a response in a small time h are described with the aid of mathematical operators. The parameters which appear in the operator equations are related to experimental variables such as the amount of reward and work. Relations between the probability and empirical measures of rate of responding and latent time are defined. Acquisition and extinction of behavior habits are discussed for the simple runway and for the Skinner box. Equations of mean latent time as a function of trial number are derived for the runway problem; equations for the mean rate of responding and cumulative numbers of responses versus time are derived for the Skinner box experiments. An attempt is made to analyze the learning process with various schedules of partial reinforcement in the Skinner type experiment. Wherever possible, the correspondence between the present model and the work of Estes [2] is pointed out.
Efflux and hydrolysis of phosphorylethanolamine and phosphorylcholine in stressed cultured rat lenses

Phosphorylcholine (P-choline), and phosphorylethanolamine (P-ethanolamine) are among the organic phosphate compounds that decrease in concentration in some cataracts and in lenses that have been subjected to cataractogenic osmotic or oxidative stresses. Decreases in the lenticular concentrations of these compounds could be caused by decreased synthesis, increased utilization or hydrolysis, or increased efflux, or by a combination of these mechanisms. To distinguish between these possibilities, the P-choline and P-ethanolamine pools of intact cultured rat lenses were radiolabeled with [3H]choline or [3H]ethanolamine, and the lenses were then subjected to oxidative or osmotic stress. The efflux and hydrolysis of P-[3H]choline and P-[3H]ethanolamine were then followed for up to 48 hr. Osmotic stress induced by incubation with 30 mM xylose caused increased P-choline and P-ethanolamine efflux from the lenses, but had little effect on the rate of hydrolysis of these compounds. For example, xylose-treated lenses lost 26% of their initial P-[3H]ethanolamine content into the medium during a 24 hr incubation, compared with only 6% for control lenses. Oxidative stress from singlet oxygen (generated by rose bengal and light) also increased lenticular P-choline efflux three to four-fold, with minimal effects on hydrolysis, and the increased efflux was accompanied by a decrease in the P-choline concentration. Permeability increases also were observed in lenses oxidatively stressed by H2O2 or by riboflavin and light. These results show that a variety of cataractogenic stresses, both oxidative and osmotic, cause increased permeability of rat lenses to organic phosphate compounds, including P-choline and P-ethanolamine.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Influence of pressure on the microstructural evolution of Ta during shear deformation

The effect of high pressure on the mechanical behavior and accompanying microstructural evolution in Ta has been investigated. Thin-foil Ta samples were deformed while being subjected to pressures in the 1–5 GPa range in a modified opposed-anvil Bridgman apparatus. Examination of deformed microstructures revealed similar changes in texture in all samples, independent of pressure. However, dislocation structures are observed to change from entanglements to well-developed dislocation cells with increasing pressure. Dislocation dynamics simulations are used to explain the experimental results.
Response of contrasting vegetable-cowpea cultivars to plant density and harvesting of young green pods. I. Pod production.

Abstract Optimal planting densities have not been established for vegetable cowpeas [ Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] with different bush-type growth habits. The dynamics of pod production and snap-pod yields of contrasting bush-type vegetable-cowpea cultivars were investigated under different plant densities during the summers of 1985 and 1986 at the University of California, Riverside. A split-split plot experimental design was used, with cultivars as mainplots and plant densities as subplots. In 1985 three cultivars, UCR193, UCR206, and Snapea were used, while in 1986 only UCR193 and UCR206 were used. In both years the cultivars were planted at densities of 100, 133, 200 and 400 thousand plants ha −1 ( tph ), achieved by varying row width from 100 to 25 cm, with a constant spacing between plants in the rows of 10 cm. Total yields of fresh pods by UCR193 progressively increased with increasing plant density up to 400 tph , whereas pod yield of UCR206 was not influenced by plant density. Pod yields were significantly greater for UCR193 than UCR206 at the highest density of 400 tph , but were similar at the lowest density of 100 tph . UCR193 is more compact, and has a more open canopy and began flowering earlier than UCR206. Average pod yield of the current U.S. cultivar, Snapea, which had a more viney canopy, was 84 and 71% less than UCR193 or UCR206, respectively. Picking pods at the ‘snap’ stage delayed plant senescence and stimulated pod production in UCR193, but suppressed pod production in UCR206. This was attributed to picking-induced damage of raceme growth and pod-set processes in UCR206, but not in UCR193. High levels of pod production by vegetable cowpeas were achieved by using extremely high plant densities and a bush-type variety that is adapted to high densities. Also, this cultivar had the physiological capacity to tolerate the physical injury and disturbance of sink/source balance associated with frequent harvesting of snap pods.
Seizure-alert dogs: a review and preliminary study

Abstract Purpose: Gather data on incidence of canine alerting/responding behavior with a defined patient population. Research development and use of purported alerting dogs. Methods: Review of the literature was performed. A qualitative questionnaire was completed by epilepsy patients. Service dog trainers were identified. Results: Of 63 patients, 29 owned pet dogs. Nine reported their dog responded to seizures, three also were reported to alert to seizure onset. There was no significant evidence of correlation between alerting/responding behavior and the patients' demographics, health, or attitude/opinion of pets. Seizure-alerting/responding behavior of the dog did not appear to depend on its age, gender or breed. A literature review revealed psychological and practical benefits of service dogs are well documented. Fifteen trainers of seizure-assist dogs were identified and interviewed. Conclusions: Findings suggest some dogs have innate ability to alert and/or respond to seizures. Suggests a trend in type of seizure/auras a dog may alert to. Success of these dogs depends largely on the handler's awareness and response to the dog's alerting behavior. Warrants further research to aid in the selection of patients who may benefit from seizure-assist dogs, for identification and further training of these dogs and possibly the development of seizure-alerting devices.
Expression and function of CCL2/CCR2 in rat micturition reflexes and somatic sensitivity with urinary bladder inflammation

Chemokines are proinflammatory mediators of the immune response, and there is growing evidence for chemokine/receptor signaling involvement in pronociception. Bladder pain syndrome (BPS)/interstiti...
Online Learning of Non-stationary Sequences

We consider an online learning scenario in which the learner can make predictions on the basis of a fixed set of experts. We derive upper and lower relative loss bounds for a class of universal learning algorithms involving a switching dynamics over the choice of the experts. On the basis of the performance bounds we provide the optimal a priori discretization for learning the parameter that governs the switching dynamics. We demonstrate the new algorithm in the context of wireless networks.
Dielectric study of the denaturation process in albumin-urea solutions

The dielectric relaxation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) aqueous solution was studied in various stages of urea denaturation, by means of the Thermally Stimulated Depolarization Currents (TSDC) technique. A large variation of urea concentration was utilized (0 to 4 M). Special attention was given to concentrations 0.006 and 0.046 M which are comparable to the ones measured in normal and uremic human serum. Three spectral bands were recorded in the temperature range 77 to 300 K which are attributed to the reorientation mechanisms of bulk and hydration water and protein macromolecules. The activation energies for all three mechanisms appear to be dependent on urea concentration and this result is discussed in terms of the conformational changes of albumin upon denaturation.
Diversity of Interferon Antagonist Activities Mediated by NSP1 Proteins of Different Rotavirus Strains

Studies involving limited numbers of rotavirus (RV) strains have shown that the viral gene 5 product, NSP1, can antagonize beta interferon (IFN-β) expression by inducing the degradation of IFN-regulatory factors (IRFs) (IRF3, IRF5, and IRF7) or a component of the E3 ubiquitin ligase complex responsible for activating NF-κB (β-transducin repeat-containing protein [β-TrCP]). To gain a broader perspective of NSP1 activities, we examined various RV strains for the ability to inhibit IFN-β expression in human cells. We found that all strains encoding wild-type NSP1 impeded IFN-β expression but not always through IRF3 degradation. To identify other degradation targets involved in suppressing IFN-β expression, we used transient expression vectors to test the abilities of a diverse collection of NSP1 proteins to target IRF3, IRF5, IRF7, and β-TrCP for degradation. The results indicated that human RVs rely predominantly on the NSP1-induced degradation of IRF5 and IRF7 to suppress IFN signaling, whereas NSP1 proteins of animal RVs tended to target IRF3, IRF5, and IRF7, allowing the animal viruses a broader attack on the IFN-β signaling pathway. The results also suggested that the NSP1-induced degradation of β-TrCP is an uncommon mechanism of subverting IFN-β signaling but is one that can be shared with NSP1 proteins that induce IRF degradation. Our analysis reveals that the activities of NSP1 proteins are diverse, with no obvious correlations between degradations of pairs of target proteins. Thus, RVs have evolved functionally distinct approaches for subverting the host antiviral response, a property consistent with the immense sequence variation noted for NSP1 proteins.
Feedback linearization control for the air & charging system in a diesel engine

The air and charge subsystem of a diesel engine is a quite complex system with strong couplings, actuator constraints, and fast dynamics. MIMO model based control strategies are essential to deal with such a process. Furthermore, the air-path process is highly nonlinear, based on thermodynamical phenomena. Therefore, classical linear MIMO approaches are difficult to be applied and require system linearization over equilibrium operating points. Conversely, feedback linearization control can be applied smoothly. In this paper, an air and charging model-based multivariable control approach is described, which has been developed for a single-stage turbocharged diesel architecture, enabling an improved trade-off of NOx and PM (particulate matter) emissions and better transient performances. The developed approach uses a nonlinear physics-based model of the air and charging system, and the control architecture is based on the feedback linearization technique that decouples interactions and compensates nonlinearities. The nonlinear control is then coupled with PI controllers in order to guarantee the transient performances and robustness. Test-bench results show the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Use of a Single Serum Sample for Diagnosis of Acute Toxoplasmosis in Pregnant Women and Other Adults

Using a single serum sample for testing for immunoglobulin G (IgG) Toxoplasma antibodies, differences in sensitivity of the dye test (which measures primarily IgG antibodies) and an IgG enzyme immunoassay were found useful for very early diagnosis of acute Toxoplasma gondii infection.
A study of radiative properties of fractal soot aggregates using the superposition T-matrix method

We employ the numerically exact superposition T-matrix method to perform extensive computations of scattering and absorption properties of soot aggregates with varying state of compactness and size. The fractal dimension, Df, is used to quantify the geometrical mass dispersion of the clusters. The optical properties of soot aggregates for a given fractal dimension are complex functions of the refractive index of the material m, the number of monomers NS, and the monomer radius a. It is shown that for smaller values of a, the absorption cross section tends to be relatively constant when Dfo2 but increases rapidly when Df42. However, a systematic reduction in light absorption with Df is observed for clusters with sufficiently large NS, m, and a. The scattering cross section and single-scattering albedo increase monotonically as fractals evolve from chain-like to more densely packed morphologies, which is a strong manifestation of the increasing importance of scattering interaction among spherules. Overall, the results for soot fractals differ profoundly from those calculated for the respective volume-equivalent soot spheres as well as for the respective external mixtures of soot monomers under the assumption that there are no electromagnetic interactions between the monomers. The climate-research implications of our results are discussed.