cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ask the Experts: Managing depression in multiple sclerosis: prevalence, pathology and progress

Dr Arnett received his PhD in Psychology (Clinical) from the University of Wisconsin – Madison (WI, USA), and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Neuropsychology at the Medical College of Wisconsin. He is currently a psychology professor and Director of Clinical Training at Penn State University (PA, USA). Dr Arnett’s research focuses on clinical neuropsychology, with an emphasis on secondary influences on cognitive functioning in persons with multiple sclerosis and mild traumatic brain injury. He is the director of the Neuropsychology of Sports-Related Concussion and Multiple Sclerosis programs at Penn State University, a fellow of the National Academy of Neuropsychology (NAN), past winner of NAN’s Nelson Butters Award for Research Contributions to Clinical Neuropsychology, and was Program Co-Chair for the 2010 Mid-Year Meeting of the International Neuropsychological Society (INS). He has authored over 90 research articles and book chapters, as well as over 160 conference presentations. He is...
Influence of Fiber Geometry on the Mechanical Properties of Assemblies During Processing Part I : Polyester Fibers in Webs and Slivers

Samples of polyester fibers have been processed on the worsted system from raw stock through the 4th pin-drafting stage. The samples consisted of all combinations of two widely-differing levels of each of the following fiber variables: (a) surface roughness, (b) cross-sectional shape, (c) linear density, (d) crimp, and (e) staple length. Laboratory evaluations were conducted the cohesion, elasticity, and resilience of card webs, and for the static and dynamic cohesion, evenness, and fiber orientation of slivers. In general, the important conclusions were that staple length and crimp are the most highly significant factors controlling the cohesion and related properties of the fiber assemblies; the other variables are statisti cally significant at lower levels.Additionally, three pertinent fiber properties were measured on specimens removed from a number of subsample assemblies. The results of tests on specimens removed from 4th pin-drafting slivers showed that the rough and smooth fibers retain their dist...
Effect of Stimulus Duration on Localization of Direction of Noise Stimuli

Localization of the direction of bursts of thermal noise was measured for both high-frequency and low-frequency bands, as a function of duration of bursts. Durations of 0.3, 1, 2, and 5 sec were us...
Real-time nonphotorealistic rendering

Nonphotorealistic rendering (NPR) can help make comprehensible but simple pictures of complicated objects by employing an economy of line. But current nonphotorealistic rendering is primarily a batch process. This paper presents a real-time nonphotorealistic renderer that deliberately trades accuracy and detail for speed. Our renderer uses a method for determining visible lines and surfaces which is a modification of Appel’s hidden-line algorithm, with improvements which are based on the topology of singular maps of a surface into the plane. The method we describe for determining visibility has the potential to be used in any NPR system that requires a description of visible lines or surfaces in the scene. The major contribution of this paper is thus to describe a tool which can significantly improve the performance of these systems. We demonstrate the system with several nonphotorealistic rendering styles, all of which operate on complex models at interactive frame rates. CR
In situ PCR localization of herpes simplex virus DNA sequences in disseminated neonatal herpes encephalitis

To more precisely define the role of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in development of nervous system disease in neonates with disseminated infection, an in situ polymerase chain reaction (ISPCR) method was used to detect and localize HSV DNA sequences in paraffin sections of neural and non-neural autopsy tissues. In subregions of adjacent sections corresponding to ISPCR-labeled and unlabeled areas, HSV specificity was verified using solution PCR and Southern blots. In serial sections, ISPCR results were compared to lesions, HSV antigen and, in selected samples, to viral sequence detection by in situ hybridization. By ISPCR, HSV-specific labeling was limited to HSV-infected neonates and experimentally infected mouse controls. ISPCR-labeled cells corresponded to regions that were histologically abnormal and contained HSV antigen or in situ hybridization signal in some foci; in others, labeled cells were in areas with no evident lesions or antigen. Results suggest two routes of HSV spread to the CNS: (i) blood-borne infection, with HSV DNA in splenic lymphocytes, circulating cells, meningeal vessel walls and cells in intraventricular hemorrhage, and (ii) neural spread, with HSV detected in brain stem sensory neurons. In the brain of one neonate surviving acute infection, detection of HSV nucleic acid sequences suggests a latent or persistent viral genome. With other methods, this highly sensitive ISPCR technique permits a more complete definition of HSV infection in these infants and provides new insights into disease mechanisms. Fuller understanding of HSV persistence and recurrent neurological disease in survivors will require further studies using these and other techniques in human tissues and in animal models.
Information as a Primary Health Care intervention: The impact of new technology on improving health for all

(1989). Information as a Primary Health Care intervention: The impact of new technology on improving health for all. Information Technology for Development: Vol. 4, No. 4, pp. 741-749.
Effectiveness of an Undergraduate Program in Industrial/Organizational Psychology.

In this article, we report an evaluation of an undergraduate program in industrial/organizational (I/O) psychology 5 years after its implementation. Graduates reported full-time employment predominantly in the business sector, competitive salaries, and a direct relation between academic major and job. Responses to open-ended questions led to several suggestions for revisions to the I/O track.
Methodology for improving subjective R&D estimates

Subjective probability estimates underly many decision techniques and project evaluation methods used in R&D. Recent research efforts of others in the study of subjective probability have resulted in methodological developments that may have useful R&D context. It is suggested that such may improve personal probability assessments, and, under some circumstances, may be useful in evaluating the relative assessment performances of the different assessors.
Ethanol-induced regional and dose-response differences in multiple-unit activity in rabbits.

Multiple-unit activity (MUA), recorded simultaneously from many brain areas, was used to detect the existence and location of ‘target sites’ for ethanol action in rabbits with chronically implanted electrodes in 14 areas. Each of 12 rabbits received intraperitoneal injection of 300, 600, 900, and 1200 mg/kg of 20% ETOH and a saline control injection given in random order with at least a 4-day interval between injections. Large amounts of MUA data, recorded continuously for a 2-min pre-injection control period and a 15-min post-injection period, were quantified by a sensitive and unique technique. MUA changes did not correlate with alcohol-induced changes in the corresponding EEG for the same locus. Whereas visual inspection of the EEG did not disclose any regional differences in response to ethanol, both temporal and topographical differences in ethanol effect on MUA were observed. There were 14 histologically verified brain areas with adequate sample size for statistical evaluation of MUA response. At high doses, all brain areas were affected. Included among the brain areas which were least affected by low doses were the caudate nucleus, septum, fornix, and medial forebrain bundle. Those areas that met the criteria for target sites of responding quickly (<5 min) to low doses (300 mg/kg) were: cerebellar cortex, cerebral cortex, hippocampus, lateral and medial geniculate nuclei, midbrain reticular formation, and pyriform cortex. In conjunction with the preliminary study [Brain Res. 70, 361 (1974)], the data indicate that the most ethanolsensitive tissue is found in the various kinds of cortex, cerebellar and cerebral (both paleocortex and neocortex).
Seasonal Change on Titan Observed with the Hubble Space Telescope WFPC-2

Abstract Recent observations with the Wide-Field Planetary Camera (WFPC-2) on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) show an unexpectedly rapid change in the atmospheric albedo contrast between the north and south hemispheres. In 1994 at blue wavelengths, the north was around 15% brighter than the south, and was expected to fall to about 12% in 1997, but has dropped to only 6% brighter. At some other wavelengths, the contrast has reversed, which was not expected until 2002. The interhemispheric contrast has a time dependence that varies with wavelength; contrast changes in blue lag behind changes in violet and yellow/red. The rapid change and the phase variation with wavelength are consistent with ground-based photometry. A physical model of the transport of high-altitude dark haze by meridional winds is a better description of Titan's behavior than the simple sinusoidal models used to date. Investigation with a radiative transfer model indicates that haze number density changes above 160-km altitude are compatible with the observed hemispheric albedo difference, and require particles >0.1 μm in radius.
Tackling community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in collegiate football players following implementation of an anti-MRSA programme

Competitive football players’ safety has become an important concern at the high school, collegiate and professional level and warrants attention.1–4 From 2003 to 2008, five players at our institution developed clinically significant community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) skin infections requiring hospitalisation and intravenous antibiotics. In 2008, the University of South Carolina team instituted anti-MRSA precautions based on recommendations made by the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) (box 1). In an attempt to understand if guidelines recommended by the CDC resulted in low MRSA colonisation rates, we randomly selected players on a Division I collegiate football programme to evaluate colonisation for MRSA obtained from nares, helmets and shoulder pads. Inclusion criteria were age 18 or older and current team member. Exclusion criteria were presence of skin infection, receiving antibiotics or hospitalisation in the prior month. The study received IRB approval and informed consent was obtained from study participants. A research assistant or team physician obtained specimens from the nares, helmet and shoulder pads with a cotton-tipped swab from …
Semiconductor quantum dot devices

This work was supported by •The Intel Alumni Endowed Chair in Electrical and Computer Engineering •The DARPA University Optoelectronics Centers Program •The National Science Foundation •The Grainger Foundation •The University of Illinois Critical Research Initiative Program
Partial Retro–Inverso, Retro, and Inverso Modifications of Hydrazide Linked Bifunctional Peptides for Opioid and Cholecystokinin (CCK) Receptors

Partially modified retro–inverso, retro, and inverso isomers of hydrazide linked bifunctional peptides were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for bioactivities at δ/μ opioid receptors and CCK-1/CCK-2 receptors. All modifications of the CCK pharmacophore moiety affected bioactivities for the CCK-1 and CCK-2 receptors (up to 180-fold increase in the binding affinity with higher selectivity) and for the δ and μ opioid receptors. The results indicate that the opioid and CCK pharmacophores in one molecule interact with each other to induce topographical changes for both pharmacophores.
Near‐Earth asteroids and the history of planetary formation

The asteroids are remnant planetesimals from the period of planetary formation ∼4.5 Ga ago. Although most probably experienced some thermal evolution during the earliest chapter of solar system history, few have been heated significantly since then, and hence they are “relics” of that era. Gravitational perturbations between Jupiter and the Sun prevented the largest asteroid, 1 Ceres, from becoming a major planet. A belt of planetesimals, ranging in size from 1000 km in diameter down to the limits of detectability, exists between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter (Figure 1). In addition, there are asteroids whose orbits cross those of the inner solar system planets, including Earth, which we collectively call Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs).
Analytical Gradients for Gravity Assist Trajectories Using Constant Specific Impulse Engines

A procedure for calculating the analytical derivatives required to optimize long duration constant specific impulse finite burns and multiple gravity assist trajectories is presented. The analytical derivatives are calculated using the state transition matrix associated with the complete set of the Euler–Lagrange equations of the optimal control problem on each trajectory segment. Another transition matrix maps perturbations across any discontinuities in the state due to a zero sphere of influence patched conic flyby or discontinuities in the equations of motion that occur when the engine turns on or off. As applications, the method is used to find optimal Earth to Saturn trajectories. The state transition matrix derivatives are shown to find optimal trajectories from sets of initial conditions where finite difference derivatives fail to converge.
Standard night vision thermal modeling parameters

The Night Vision ACQUIRE model predicts range performance when provided with parameters describing the atmosphere, a 2-D MRT curve which describes the sensor and three additional parameters. Two of the additional parameters (characteristic dimension and target- background contrast) describe the target. The third additional parameter, a cycle criterion (N50) relates to task difficulty. Characteristic dimension and target-background contrast are measured directly in the field. The third parameter N50 is empirically determined from the measured range performance associated with the task. The purpose of this communication is to define terms, protocols and where possible to give recommended values for parameters used with the ACQUIRE model. The methodology and recommended parameter values given here represent Night Vision's best estimates based on years of laboratory and field experience.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Effect of age on the expression of insulin-like growth factor-I, interleukin-6, and transforming growth factor-β mRNAs in rat femurs following marrow ablation

Abstract The expression of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and transforming growth factor-β 1 (TGF-β 1 ) mRNA in rat femurs was examined following marrow ablation. Northern blot analysis showed multiple transcripts of IGF-I, a major transcript of 1.3 kb and a minor one of 2.4 kb for IL-6 and a single band of 2.5 kb for TGF-β 1 , respectively. Examination of the temporal activation pattern showed IGF-I expression peaked at day 3 (150% over the basal level) after injury and preceded the maximal expression of procollagen α 1 (I, osteopontin, alkaline phosphatase, and osteocalcin mRNAs. This suggests that IGF-I is involved mainly in osteoblast development and bone formation. In contrast, IL-6 expression was elevated between days 3 and 9 (45–60% over the basal level). The sustained elevation of IL-6 expression at day 9 is consistent with the role for this cytokine in the development of osteoclasts and bone resorption. The expression of TGF-β 1 was not altered up to day 9 after marrow ablation. While the temporal expression patterns of IGF-I and IL-6 mRNA did not differ between adult and old rats, the maximal level of IGF-I mRNA at day 3 was 72% higher in adult as compared to old bones. In contrast, the peak level of 1L-6 mRNA at days 6–9 was 45% higher in old as compared to adult bones. Although the level of TGF-β 1 mRNA did not change following marrow ablation, levels of TGF-β 1 were consistently higher in old rats. Our results suggest that the impaired bone formation and elevated bone resorption in aged animals may be due in part to the reduced expression of IGF-I and an overexpression of IL-6 in old bone.
Local heat-transfer coefficients on a uniformly heated cylinder

Local heat-transfer coefficients from a uniformly heated cylinder with water in cross flow are presented and compared with analytical predictions. The influence of channel blockage is investigated and a correction presented for the effect of blockage on both the local and average heat transfer. The variation of viscosity with temperature across the boundary layer is also considered and its effect empirically correlated by means of a viscosity ratio. Reynolds numbers from 2000 to 120 000; Prandtl numbers from 1 to 7; surface-to-bulk temperature differences from 20 to 120 degF; and blockage ratios from 0.208 to 0.415 were used in these tests. Local heat-transfer coefficients were determined by measuring the temperature variation of the tube wall with a thermocouple welded to the inner surface. Analysis of the heat transfer in the laminar boundary layer uses integral methods with the Pohlhausen velocity profile in the momentum boundary layer and a third order temperature profile in the thermal boundary layer. A comparison is made between these results and previously published methods for the case of constant heat flux at the wall.
Computer simulation of shrinkage related defects in metal castings – a review

AbstractSimulation of shrinkage related defects in shape castings has been extensively studied because of its potential contribution to quality improvement of cast products. Although the location of macroshrinkage can be estimated rather easily by present solidification models, it is still difficult to quantify its size. In spite of concentrated efforts and numerous claims of success, microporosity prediction is still a subject looking for a solution. After a succinct analysis of the physics of the problem, this paper reviews the various approaches to modelling macro- and micro-porosity evolution, from simple thermal models and criterion functions, to channel and porous medium models based on hydrogen diffusion, and finally to a most recent model based on oxide entrapment.
An empirical examination of advertising as a signal of product quality

Abstract Using data from the U.S. automobile industry we test for evidence consistent with game-theoretic models of advertising and quality signalling. We find that manufacturers use both price and advertising to signal the quality of their products; when price exceeds the full information case, manufacturers use above average levels of advertising. We also find a positive association between higher future sales and current advertising levels for automobile models. These results are consistent with game-theoretic signalling models and reported management practices.
Polyetherimides. II. High-temperature solution polymerization

The polymerization and characterization of the ether-containing aromatic polyimides of the following general structure are presented. The polymerization was conducted in one step in homogeneous solution of m-cresol at high temperatures. Typical polyeterimides (PEI) were noncrystalline and showed excellent thermal stability. Among 46 polymers synthesized, only two were crystalline. PEI had glass transition temperatures from 178° to 277°C and exhibited excellent processibility. Many PEI were also soluble in dipolar aprotic solvents and chlorinated hydrocarbons.
Determinants of voiding after three types of incontinence surgery: a multivariable analysis.

Abstract Objective: To determine the time to normal voiding in women after various surgical procedures for genuine stress urinary incontinence (GSUI) or urethral hypermobility. Methods: One hundred one women had bladder neck suspensions. Suprapubic catheters were used in 94 women and intermittent self-catheterization in seven to manage urinary retention after surgery. We used a standardized protocol to record days to adequate postoperative voiding. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were used to determine clinical, urodynamic, and surgical factors that independently influenced time to adequate postoperative voiding. Results: Women met the criteria for adequate voiding a mean of 7.1 days after modified open Burch procedures (n = 43), 9.5 days after anterior colporrhaphies with suburethral plication (n = 24), and 19.1 days after vaginal wall sling procedures (n = 34). The type of bladder neck suspension was independently associated with increasing time to void (P = .001). Multivariable regression analysis determined other factors significantly associated with longer time to adequate postoperative voiding: advancing age, previous vaginal bladder neck suspension, increasing volume at first sensation on bladder filling, higher postvoid residual urine volume (preoperative), and postoperative cystitis. Detrusor pressure, abdominal straining on pressure flow voiding study, and other concurrent surgeries were not significantly associated with postoperative voiding time in this model. Conclusions: Time to adequate voiding after bladder neck suspension was influenced by type of surgical procedure, postoperative cystitis, and several demographic and urodynamic factors. This study does not support using pressure flow studies to predict women at risk of voiding dysfunction.
Interaction of methanol with ruthenium

Abstract The interaction of methanol with a clean (110) ruthenium surface has been studied using temperatures programmed desorption methods. Methanol dissociates upon adsorption at 300 K and yields H 2 (g) and chemisorbed CO as the dominant products. Randomization of evolved hydrogen was shown to occur during methanol adsorption and also upon subsequent thermal desorption using isotopically labeled methanol, CH 3 OD. In addition to hydrogen and CO, small amounts of H 2 CO, CH 3 OH, CO 2 , and H 2 O, are also observed upon thermal desorption. In contrast with a previous study of formaldehyde on Ru(110), no detectable CH 4 product is found upon methanol desorption.
A computer model of temperature distribution inside a lossy sphere after microwave radiation

The temperature distribution inside a lossy sphere resulting from the absorption of microwave energy was approximated by successive numerical iterations. of the thermal energy equation. Heat transfer within the sphere by conduction was considered. In the model energy was not dissipated by convection but was contained in the sphere for over 200 seconds. Exposure of a 5-cm sphere to 3,000 MHz at 30 mW/cm2 for 200 seconds was calculated to produce a temperature rise of 0.56 degrees C near the front surface.
Adolescent, Parent, and Observer Perceptions of Parenting: Genetic and Environmental Influences on Shared and Distinct Perceptions

Agreement among reporters on features of family life, whether family members or outside observers, is considered to be low. This study, which involved a national sample of 720 families comprised of identical and fraternal twins, full siblings, half siblings, and biologically unrelated stepsiblings, examined the issue of low interrater agreement by decomposing the common and unique variance among parent, child, and observer reports of parenting behaviors (warmth and negativity) into genetic and environmental factors. Quantitative genetic analyses were employed to decompose the "Social" level of perception (common variance among parents, children, observers), the level of "Family" subculture (common variance only among parents and children), and the unique "Individual" level into genetic and environmental components. It was predicted that genetic factors would account for substantial portions of the variance at the Social and Family levels; nonshared environmental factors were expected to influence variance unique to child reports; and shared environmental factors were expected to influence variance unique to parent reports. A second and related aim of the study was to examine the subjective-objective dimension of genetic effects on measures of the environment. Results of model-fitting analyses generally supported the predictions for parental warmth and negativity at the Family and Individual levels. At the Social level, genetic factors were predominant for parental negativity and shared environmental factors for parental warmth. The findings are discussed in terms of genetically influenced child effects on parenting and methodological difficulties in constructing latent variables.
Generation of transient Rabi sidebands in pulse propagation: A possible source for cone emission

We study the one-dimensional propagation of a laser pulse through an atomic vapor of finite length L. Both the temporal and the time-dependent spectral profiles of the exiting laser pulse are calculated. It is shown that, when the pulse duration is comparable with or shorter than the effective relaxation time of the atomic density matrix, the spectrum of the final pulse exhibits frequency sidebands located in the vicinity of the time-varying generalized Rabi frequency, which can contain up to a few percent of the total laser power. The possible connection between this result and cone emission in the pulsed regime is addressed.
Emotional/Behavioral Disorders A Retrospective Examination of Social Skills, Linguistics, and Student Outcomes

A language-based social skills instruction intervention used to prepare middle and high school students with emotional/behavioral disorders for return to less restrictive public school placements was evaluated. The daily 50-minute intervention focused on repetitive readings, recitations, and role-playing of skill step procedures until students achieved mastery on each required task in five broad dimensions: peer relations, self-management, academic, compliance, and assertion. The students were divided into three groups according to the length of intervention (under 2 years, 2 to 3 years, and more than 3 years). Dependent t tests were used to test the effects of prolonged intervention on past year and final year disruptive behavior totals and response to a self-control question for students in each group. In addition, a chi-square was used to evaluate the frequency of students with four or fewer disruptive behaviors across groups to determine progress toward unsupervised transition. Implications for social...
Consumption spending and output fluctuations: a multi-country study

(1989). Consumption spending and output fluctuations: a multi-country study. Applied Economics: Vol. 21, No. 7, pp. 891-900.
EXPLORING FOR OPTIMAL GEOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENTS FOR CARBON DIOXIDE DISPOSAL IN SALINE AQUIFERS IN THE UNITED STATES

Saline aquifers have been widely recognized as having high potential for very long term (geologic time scale) sequestration of greenhouse gasses, particularly CO2. The same properties that make saline aquifers desirable for sequestration, isolation from the surface and minimal use as a resource, however, make for typically poor characterization. The significant variables affecting the usefulness of an aquifer for CO2 sequestration include porosity, permeability, compartmentalization, aquifer depth, pressure, temperature, thickness, water chemistry, rock mineralogy, and aquifer flow rate. Reservoir characterization and geologic play approaches are used to extend our knowledge from well-known areas (saline aquifers closely associated with hydrocarbon production) to poorly known areas (potentially large-volume, unproductive saline aquifer targets for sequestration) by applying conceptual geologic and hydrologic models. Although reservoir characterization and play approaches are standard techniques for hydrocarbon exploration and development, they require adaptation for use in exploring for optimal hydrogeologic settings for CO2 injection in various geologic environments.
Intrastriatal administration of erythropoietin protects dopaminergic neurons and improves neurobehavioral outcome in a rat model of Parkinson's disease.

Abstract Erythropoietin (EPO), a hematopoietic cytokine, has recently been demonstrated to protect nigral dopaminergic neurons in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease (PD). In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) could protect dopaminergic neurons and improve neurobehavioral outcome in a rat model of PD. rhEPO (20 units in 2 μl of vehicle) was stereotaxically injected into one side of the striatum. 6-Hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) was injected into the same side 1 day later. Another group of rats received rhEPO (5000 u/kg, i.p.) daily for 8 days, and unilateral injection of 6-OHDA in the striatum 3 days after systemic administration of rhEPO. We observed that intrastriatal administration, but not systemic administration of rhEPO significantly reduced the degree of rotational asymmetry. The rhEPO-treated rats also showed an improvement in skilled forelimb use when compared with control rats. The number of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-immunoreactive (IR) neurons in the ipsilateral substantia nigra (SN) was significantly larger in intrastriatal rhEPO-treated rats than that in control rats. TH-IR fibers in the 6-OHDA-lesioned striatum were also increased in the intrastriatal rhEPO-treated rats when compared with control rats. In addition, there were lower levels of expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II antigens and a smaller number of activated microglia in the ipsilateral SN in intrastriatal rhEPO-treated rats than that in control rats at 2 weeks, suggesting that intrastriatal injection of rhEPO attenuated 6-OHDA-induced inflammation in the ipsilateral SN. Our results suggest that intrastriatal administration of rhEPO can protect nigral dopaminergic neurons from cell death induced by 6-OHDA and improve neurobehavioral outcome in a rat model of PD. Anti-inflammation may be one of mechanisms responsible for rhEPO neuroprotection.
Mechanical derivation of functional myotubes from adipose-derived stem cells.

Though reduced serum or myoblast co-culture alone can differentiate adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) into mesenchymal lineages, efficiency is usually not sufficient to restore function in vivo. Often when injected into fibrotic muscle, their differentiation may be misdirected by the now stiffened tissue. Here ASCs are shown to not just simply reflect the qualitative stiffness sensitivity of bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) but to exceed BMSC myogenic capacity, expressing the appropriate temporal sequence of muscle transcriptional regulators on muscle-mimicking extracellular matrix in a tension and focal adhesion-dependent manner. ASCs formed multi-nucleated myotubes with a continuous cytoskeleton that was not due to misdirected cell division; microtubule depolymerization severed myotubes, but after washout, ASCs refused at a rate similar to pre-treated values. BMSCs never underwent stiffness-mediated fusion. ASC-derived myotubes, when replated onto non-permissive stiff matrix, maintained their fused state. Together these data imply enhanced mechanosensitivity for ASCs, making them a better therapeutic cell source for fibrotic muscle.
Putative Role of Prostaglandin Receptor in Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Each year, approximately 795,000 people experience a new or recurrent stroke. Of all strokes, 84% are ischemic, 13% are intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) strokes and 3% are subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) strokes. Despite the decreased incidence of ischemic stroke, there has been no change in the incidence of hemorrhagic stroke in the last decade. ICH is a devastating disease 37-38% of patients between the ages of 45-64 die within 30 days. In an effort to prevent ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes we and others have been studying the role of prostaglandins and their receptors. Prostaglandins are bioactive lipids derived from the metabolism of arachidonic acid. They sustain homeostatic functions and mediate pathogenic mechanisms, including the inflammatory response. Most prostaglandins are produced from specific enzymes and act upon cells via distinct G-protein coupled receptors. The presence of multiple prostaglandin receptor’s cross-reactivity and coupling to different signal transduction pathways allow differentiated cells to respond to prostaglandins in a unique manner. Due to the number of prostaglandin receptors, prostaglandin-dependent signaling can function either to promote neuronal survival or injury following acute excitotoxicity, hypoxia, and stress induced by ICH. To better understand the mechanisms of neuronal survival and neurotoxicity mediated by prostaglandin receptors, it is essential to understand downstream signaling. Several groups including ours have discovered unique roles for prostaglandin receptors in rodent models of ischemic stroke, excitotoxicity, and Alzheimer disease, highlighting the emerging role of prostaglandin receptor signaling in hemorrhagic stroke with a focus on cyclic-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and calcium (Ca2+) signaling. We review current ICH data and discuss future directions notably on prostaglandin receptors, which may lead to the development of unique therapeutic targets against hemorrhagic stroke and brain injuries alike.
Fluctuations in Adelie penguin prey size in the mid to late Holocene, northern Marguerite Bay, Antarctic Peninsula

We investigated temporal changes in Adelie penguin prey size in northern Marguerite Bay, Antarctic Peninsula, through excavations of three abandoned and one active colony at Lagoon (67°35′S, 68°16′W) and Ginger Islands (67°45′S, 68°41′W), respectively, in austral summer 1999/2000. Radiocarbon dates on penguin bones and eggshell fragments collected at each site indicate that Lagoon Island was first occupied after 6000 BP and Ginger Island near 2275 BP. Identifiable non-krill prey remains (otoliths and squid beaks) were recovered from ornithogenic soils at all sites, with Antarctic silverfish (Pleuragramma antarcticum) and squid (Psychroteuthis glacialis) being the most abundant species represented in the deposits. Estimated mean standard lengths and mantle lengths of these two prey taxa, based on regressions with otolith and beak measurements respectively, indicate that Adelie penguins primarily select these prey within a mean size range of 95–117 mm. Prey size also varied significantly across seven occupation periods from 6000 BP to the present, but did not correlate with climate change.
Visuoperceptual speed of karate practitioners at three levels of skill.

The Identical Pictures Test was administered to 50 male and 45 female volunteer karateka who were classified by Fitts' level of learning and karate beltrank color system (kyu-dan) into three groups...
Probing the Function of Bordetella bronchiseptica Adenylate Cyclase Toxin by Manipulating Host Immunity

We have examined the role of adenylate cyclase-hemolysin (CyaA) by constructing an in-frame deletion in the Bordetella bronchiseptica cyaA structural gene and comparing wild-type and cyaA deletion strains in natural host infection models. Both the wild-type strain RB50 and its adenylate cyclase toxin deletion (DeltacyaA) derivative efficiently establish persistent infections in rabbits, rats, and mice following low-dose inoculation. In contrast, an inoculation protocol that seeds the lower respiratory tract revealed significant differences in bacterial numbers and in polymorphonuclear neutrophil recruitment in the lungs from days 5 to 12 postinoculation. We next explored the effects of disarming specific aspects of the immune system on the relative phenotypes of wild-type and DeltacyaA bacteria. SCID, SCID-beige, or RAG-1(-/-) mice succumbed to lethal systemic infection following high- or low-dose intranasal inoculation with the wild-type strain but not the DeltacyaA mutant. Mice rendered neutropenic by treatment with cyclophosphamide or by knockout mutation in the granulocyte colony-stimulating factor locus were highly susceptible to lethal infection by either wild-type or DeltacyaA strains. These results reveal the significant role played by neutrophils early in B. bronchiseptica infection and by acquired immunity at later time points and suggest that phagocytic cells are a primary in vivo target of the Bordetella adenylate cyclase toxin.
Reducing Curing Requirements for Pervious Concrete with a Superabsorbent Polymer for Internal Curing

This paper presents the results of a research project to investigate reducing the need for curing pervious concrete under plastic by incorporating a superabsorbent polymer (SAP) normally intended for internal curing. Pervious concrete samples were produced with and without the SAP along with additional curing water. Compressive strength, unit weight, voids, and permeability testing was performed on hardened cylinders. Shrinkage was determined on beams for total and autogenous deformation with restrained ring testing. Moisture loss was determined with a modified version of the standard used to evaluate curing compounds, followed by rotary cutter surface abrasion. Field test sections were placed and cured under plastic or left open. The results show that mixtures containing the SAP had better workability and were stronger at equal void contents. The mixture containing the SAP had reduced shrinkage, moisture loss, and abrasion. After one winter, the uncured SAP field mixture had performance equal to the cont...
Policy-based multiple access for decentralized low power systems

In this paper, we present an information theoretic study of a decentralized multiple access channel (MAC), where users are allowed to autonomously change their data rates, transmission powers, and channel codes, independently from other users in the system. We introduce a policy-based access mechanism, where each user is allocated a set of code-books, with various data rates and powers. Successful reception of all users is guaranteed, provided that each of the users adheres to its assigned access policy, when selecting its date rate and power. We completely characterize the capacity region for such policy-based access in the low power regime, for both single and multi-antenna (MIMO) systems, and we show that nonorthogonal policies outperform orthogonal ones. We also show that known MIMO capacity scaling laws, which apply in single user systems, carry over into framework of decentralized MAC.
Improvements in Hip Muscle Performance Result in Increased Use of the Hip Extensors and Abductors During a Landing Task

Background:Impaired hip muscle performance has been implicated as a contributing factor to the increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in women.Purpose:To determine the influence of a hip-focused training program on lower extremity biomechanics during a drop-jump task.Study Design:Descriptive laboratory study.Methods:Twenty-one recreationally active women (18-25 years of age) participated in a 4-week training program consisting of hip-focused plyometric and balance perturbation exercises (3 times/wk, 30 min/session). Maximum isometric strength of the hip extensors, hip abductors, and knee extensors was assessed, along with lower extremity biomechanics during a drop-jump task. All assessments were performed within 5 days of initiation and completion of the training program.Results:After training, subjects demonstrated significantly greater maximum isometric strength of the hip extensors (2.87 ± 0.7 vs 3.11 ± 0.7 N·m/kg; P < .01) and hip abductors (2.08 ± 0.7 vs 2.23 ± 0.07 N·m/kg; P = .00...
Ensuring the operational health of droplet-based microelectrofluidic biosensor systems

Recent events have heightened the need for fast, accurate, and reliable biological/chemical sensor systems for critical locations. As droplet-based microelectrofluidic sensor systems become widespread in these safety-critical biomedical applications, reliability emerges as a critical performance parameter. In order to ensure the operational health of such safety-critical systems, they need to be monitored for defects, not only after manufacturing, but also during in-field operation. In this paper, we present a cost-effective concurrent test methodology for droplet-based microelectrofluidic systems. We present a classification of catastrophic and parametric faults in such systems and show how faults can be detected by electrostatically controlling and tracking droplet motion. We then present a fault simulation approach based on tolerance analysis using Monte-Carlo simulation to characterize the impact of parameter variations on system performance. Finally, we present experimental results on a droplet-based microelectrofluidic system for a real-time polymerase chain reaction application.
Two modes of sea‐ice gravity drainage: A parameterization for large‐scale modeling

[1] We present a new one-dimensional parameterization of gravity drainage implemented in an all-new thermodynamic component of the Los Alamos Sea Ice Model (CICE), based on mushy layer theory. We solve a set of coupled, nonlinear equations for sea-ice temperature (enthalpy) and salinity using an implicit Jacobian-free Newton-Krylov method. Time resolved observations of gravity drainage show two modes of desalination during growth. Rapid drainage occurs in a thin region just above the ice/ocean interface, while slower drainage occurs throughout the ice. Parameterizations are designed to represent each of these modes and work simultaneously. Near the interface, desalination occurs primarily via the fast drainage, while slow drainage continues to desalinate ice above the interface. The rapid desalination is convectively driven and is parameterized based on a consideration of flow driven upward within the mush and downward in chimneys, modified by the Rayleigh number. The slow desalination is represented as a simple relaxation of bulk salinity to a value based on a critical porosity for sea-ice permeability. It is shown that these parameterizations can adequately reproduce observational data from laboratory experiments and field measurements.
Etiologies of Schizophrenia

A medical model seems inescapable when considering the biological factors that may contribute to schizophrenia. The question is which medical model is most appropriate. An interactive developmental model provides, we believe, a broad conception of disease that is most adequate for integrating the available facts relevant to the etiologies of schizophrenia. However, genetic and biochemical hypotheses have often been presented within a narrower biomedical model of illness. Such a model has stated or implied that deviations in brain physiology are sufficient to account for schizophrenia without the need to implicate environmental factors. In such a view, psychology and sociology are recognized as relevant to the expression of illness, of course, but etiology is viewed solely in biomedical terms. The presumed brain dysfunction could be conceptualized as structural or functional. In either case, etiology might originate within the brain (e.g., in abnormal limbic system anatomy or function), or the brain could be viewed as the organ of response (e.g., to an abnormal metabolite formed in the gut or liver).
A comparison of auditory brainstem responses and behavioral estimates of hearing sensitivity in Lemur catta and Nycticebus coucang.

Primates depend on acoustic signals and cues to avoid predators, locate food, and share information. Accordingly, the structure and function of acoustic stimuli have long been emphasized in studies of primate behavioral and cognitive ecology. Yet, few studies have addressed how well primates hear such stimuli; indeed, the auditory thresholds of most primate species are unknown. This empirical void is due in part to the logistic and economic challenges attendant on traditional behavioral testing methods. Technological advances have produced a safe and cost-effective alternative—the auditory brainstem response (ABR) method, which can be utilized in field conditions, on virtually any animal species, and without subject training. Here we used the ABR and four methods of threshold determination to construct audiograms for two strepsirrhine primates: the ring-tailed lemur (Lemur catta) and slow loris (Nycticebus coucang). Next, to verify the general efficacy of the ABR method, we compared our results to published behaviorally-derived audiograms. We found that the four ABR threshold detection methods produced similar results, including relatively elevated thresholds but similarly shaped audiograms compared to those derived behaviorally. The ABR and behavioral absolute thresholds were significantly correlated, and the frequencies of best sensitivity and high-frequency limits were comparable. However, at frequencies ≤2 kHz, ABR thresholds were especially elevated, resulting in decreased agreement with behavioral thresholds and, in Lemur, the ABR 10-dB range starting points were more than 2 octaves higher than the behavioral points. Finally, a comparison of ABR- and behaviorally-derived audiograms from various animal taxa demonstrates the widespread efficacy of the ABR for estimating frequency of best sensitivity, but otherwise suggests caution; factors such as stimulus properties and threshold definition affect results. We conclude that the ABR method is a promising technique for estimating primate hearing sensitivity, but that additional data are required to explore its efficacy for estimating low-frequency thresholds. Am. J. Primatol. 72:217–233, 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
New ν-support vector machines and their sequential minimal optimization

Although the ν-Support Vector Machine, ν-SVM, (Scholkopf et al., 2000) has the advantage of using a single parameter ν to control both the number of support vectors and the fraction of margin errors, there are two issues that prevent it from being used in many real world applications. First, unlike the C-SVM that allows asymmetric misclassification cost, ν-SVM uses a symmetric misclassification cost. While lower error rate is promoted by this symmetric misclassification cost, it is not always the preferred measure in many applications. Second, the additional constraint from ν-SVM makes its training more difficult. Sequential Minimal Optimization (SMO) algorithms that are very easy to implement and scalable to very large problems do not exist in a good form for ν-SVM. In this paper, we proposed two new ν-SVM formulations. These formulations introduce means to control the misclassification cost ratio between false positives and false negative, while preserving the intuitive parameter ν. We also propose a SMO algorithm for the ν-SVM classification problem. Experiments show that our new ν-SVM formulation is effective in incorporating asymmetric misclassification cost, and the SMO algorithm for ν-SVM is comparable in speed to that for C-SVM.
Recruitment of Cln3 Cyclin to Promoters Controls Cell Cycle Entry via Histone Deacetylase and Other Targets

In yeast, the G1 cyclin Cln3 promotes cell cycle entry by activating the transcription factor SBF. In mammals, there is a parallel system for cell cycle entry in which cyclin dependent kinase (CDK) activates transcription factor E2F/Dp. Here we show that Cln3 regulates SBF by at least two different pathways, one involving the repressive protein Whi5, and the second involving Stb1. The Rpd3 histone deacetylase complex is also involved. Cln3 binds to SBF at the CLN2 promoter, and removes previously bound Whi5 and histone deacetylase. Adding extra copies of the SBF binding site to the cell delays Start, possibly by titrating Cln3. Since Rpd3 is the yeast ortholog of mammalian HDAC1, there is now a virtually complete analogy between the proteins regulating cell cycle entry in yeast (SBF, Cln3, Whi5 and Stb1, Rpd3) and mammals (E2F, Cyclin D, Rb, HDAC1). The cell may titrate Cln3 molecules against the number of SBF binding sites, and this could be the underlying basis of the size-control mechanism for Start.