cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exact methods for determining the kinematics of a stewart platform using additional displacement sensors

The Stewart platform (SP) is a parallel closed-kinematic chain robotic mechanism that is capable of providing high structural and positional rigidity. Because of its unique capability, the platforms have been employed in many control engineering applications such as simulator shakers, robotic manipulators, etc. However, a main problem often found in the implementation of a real-time controller for the platform is the lack of an efficient algorithm for solving its highly nonlinear forward kinematic transformation (FKT), where one seeks to find the translational and orientational altitudes of the moveable platform from knowing the lengths of the platform linkages. This article describes two new direct and exact methods for computing the translational and rotational displacements of an SP by employing extra transnational displacement sensors (TDSs), in addition to the existing TDSs for the six links of the SP. The key for the approach lies in knowing where to employ the TDSs for determining positional vectors of strategic platform locations. By taking advantage of a tetrahedral geometry, closed-form solutions for the FKT can then be derived and directly evaluated. The new methods produce accurate solutions with only minimal computation necessary. The advantages and disadvantages of the proposed methods are discussed and compared to an existing method. The exact methods are being investigated for an on-line implementation of a nonlinear adaptive control system and redundancy scheme for a 25-ton Stewart platform-based Crew Station/Turret Motion Base Simulator (CS/TMBS) at the U.S. Army Tank-Automotive Command (TACOM).
New Technology and Clinical Applications of Nanomedicine

Nanomedicine is the medical diagnosis, monitoring and applying treatment at the level of single molecules or molecular assemblies that provide structure, control, signals, homeostasis, and motility in living cells. Quantum dots (QDs) are nanometer-sized fluorescent probes suitable for advanced biological imaging. The nanotechnology will be very useful for the drug delivery and diagnostic approach. The development of a cancer therapy monitoring/diagnostic platform device such a device is intended to provide near real time monitoring of patient blood for cancer cells, cell derived nanoparticulates, such as high molecular weight DNA fragments.
CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS ON HIGH- ELEVATION HYDROPOWER GENERATION IN CALIFORNIA'S SIERRA NEVADA: A CASE STUDY IN THE UPPER AMERICAN RIVER

Climate change is likely to affect the generation of energy from California’s high-elevation hydropower systems. To investigate these impacts, this study formulates a linear programming model of an 11-reservoir hydroelectric system operated by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District in the Upper American River basin. Four sets of hydrologic scenarios are developed using the Variable Infiltration Capacity model combined with climatic output from two general circulation models under two greenhouse-gas emissions scenarios. Power generation and revenues fall under two of the four climate change scenarios, as a consequence of drier hydrologic conditions. Energy generation is primarily limited by annual volume of streamflow, and is affected more than revenues, reflecting the ability of the system to store water when energy prices are low for use when prices are high (July through September). Power generation and revenues increase for two of the scenarios, which predict wetter hydrologic conditions. In this case, power generation increases more than revenues indicating that the system is using most of its available capacity under current hydrologic conditions. Hydroelectric systems located in basins with hydrograph centroids occuring close to summer months (July through September) are likely to be affected by the changes in hydrologic timing associated with climate change (e.g., earlier snowmelts and streamflows) if the systems lack sufficient storage capacity. High Sierra hydroelectric systems with sufficiently large storage capacity should not be affected by climate-induced changes in hydrologic timing.
Eliminating mutual views in fusion of ranging and RGB-D data from robot teams operating in confined areas

We address the problem of fusing laser and RGB-Data from multiple robots operating in close proximity to one another. By having a team of robots working together, a large area can be scanned quickly, or a smaller area scanned in greater detail. However, a key aspect of this problem is the elimination of the spurious readings due to the robots operating in close proximity. While there is an extensive literature on the mapping and localization aspect of this problem, our problem differs from the dynamic map problem in that it involves at one kind of transient map feature, robots viewing other robots, and we know that we wish to completely eliminate all such mutual views. In prior work, we investigated the problem of fusing laser data from multiple robots in such a manner as to reject this spurious data from other robots. This work showed that a combination of local robot-based direction filtering and global map-based visibility filtering at a central map server removed 91% of the spurious data and resulted in a 98% quality improvement. In this paper we additionally consider the problem of fusing RGB-D data generated by a stereo-camera sensor. An approach based on a model of human visual attention is presented and compared with our prior work and with other related work. This approach is an order of magnitude faster than the prior work and yet rejects 73% of the spurious data producing a 55% quality improvement. Results are shown for this approach for two experiments with a two robot team operating in a confined indoor environment (4m x 4m).
Question of why metastable muonic helium is not quenched

The ion-clustering mechanism which is the explanation usually invoked for the long collisional lifetime of metastable muonic helium is examined. Based on current knowledge of similar clusters, this mechanism does not work.
Emerging Definitions of Boutique and Lifestyle Hotels: A Delphi Study

ABSTRACT Despite growing interest in the boutique and lifestyle sector of the lodging industry, there is not an accepted definition of either “boutique hotel” or “lifestyle hotel.” Boutique and lifestyle hotel strategies provide hotel companies with important points of differentiation in an increasingly competitive marketplace. The current study determined definitions using a Delphi analysis of responses from a diverse group of experts from the lodging industry. Forty-one panel members were involved in the process that was undertaken with three rounds of questions. The study determined that boutique hotels are best characterized as small, stylish hotels that offer high levels of service. Lifestyle hotels are described as innovative and provide more of a personal experience than so-called “branded” hotels.
Designing therapies for the treatment of AIDS

Abstract The human immunodeficiency virus has been shown to be the causative agent of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and related disorders. Many thousands have already died of AIDS and the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta have estimated that as many as 1.5 million people in the United States alone are infected with HIV. Consequently, there has been a tremendous effort, both in academia and industry, towards uncovering the structural features of viral particles, the interaction of host cellular factors involved in HIV gene expression, and the molecular mechanisms of viral replication. These efforts should provide a better understanding of AIDS pathogenesis and enable the design of effective pharmaceuticals for the treatment of HIV infection. This article reviews the current knowledge of the virus and the possible approaches towards inhibiting its replication.
Influence of Stent Edge Angle on Endothelialization in An In Vitro Model

PURPOSE To investigate the influence of topographic features in the path of migrating endothelial cells, specifically the effect of edge angle of intravascular metallic material on endothelialization. MATERIALS AND METHODS Flat 1-cm × 1-cm 316-L pieces of stainless steel were placed on confluent monolayers of human aortic endothelial cells. The thickness of each metal piece was ground to achieve an edge angle of 35°, 70°, 90°, or 140° ( n = 6 each) in relation to the endothelial surface. Migration distance and density of endothelial cell coverage on the metal pieces were measured in groups of six each under static conditions at 4, 7, and 11 days and flow conditions (16 dynes/cm 2 ) at 4 days. RESULTS Endothelial cell migration distance along the surface of the pieces with edge angles of 35° was significantly greater than that with those with larger angles ( P CONCLUSIONS The edge angle of intravascular metallic material has an influence on the rate of endothelialization. A smaller edge angle facilitates endothelialization over metallic material when compared to a larger angle. These results demonstrate the importance of metallic stent profile on endothelialization rate.
Minimally Invasive Operation for Esophageal Diverticula

Background Mid and lower esophageal diverticula are rare entities usually managed by open operation. Morbidity can be significant with these complex procedures. This study evaluates our results of minimally invasive surgery for esophageal diverticula. Methods Over a 5-year period, 20 patients underwent operation for esophageal diverticula. Median age was 70.5 years. There were 16 epiphrenic and 4 midesophageal diverticula with a median size of 7.5 cm (range, 2-11 cm). Symptoms included dysphagia (14), regurgitation (12), weight loss (8), heartburn (4), aspiration pneumonia (3), chest pain (2), and vomiting (2). Dysphagia scores (1 = none, 5=severe) were recorded before and after operation. Results Surgical approaches were laparoscopy (10), video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) (7), laparoscopic/VATS (2), and laparoscopic/thoracotomy (1). The most common operation performed was a diverticulectomy, myotomy, and partial fundoplication (12). Complications occurred in 9 (45%) patients and included 4 (20%) esophageal leaks. Three leak patients had successful outcomes; the fourth patient died 61 days after operation. Median hospital stay was 5.0 (1–61) days. Detailed follow-up was available in 18 patients at a median of 15 (1–70) months. Dysphagia scores improved significantly ( p Conclusions Minimally invasive operations for esophageal diverticula are feasible but also challenging. The potential for morbidity is significant. Patients should be selected and evaluated carefully before undertaking repair. Open surgery should remain the standard except in centers experienced with minimally invasive esophageal surgery.
Opioid-Based Multimodal Care of Patients with Chronic Pain: Improving Effectiveness and Mitigating Risks

Chronic pain, pain that persists beyond the normal tissue healing time, is a complex neurobiologic condition requiring multimodal treatment [1]. By definition a subjectively unpleasant experience, pain is an untestable hypothesis that requires predefined functional goals against which to objectively measure progress and treatment success [2,3]. Comprehensive assessment of chronic pain is necessarily multidimensional, requiring attention across multiple biological, psychological, and social domains [4,5]. First, characterizing patient complaints and functional impairment helps define realistic treatment goals. Second, identifying objective signs, patient-reported symptoms, and phenomenology of the syndrome, from which pathophysiology may be inferred, can shape mechanism-based therapies. Third, examining psychosocial and medical comorbidities can further optimize individualized therapy. Although pain may be initiated by acute tissue damage and adaptive nociceptive signaling, it is deep in the cortical areas of the brain where chronic and maladaptive pain signals are interpreted, assigned affective meaning, and ultimately perceived [6]. Treatment, especially with opioids, requires a vigilant and transparent relationship between clinician and patient, so that each understands the challenges and responsibilities inherent in treating a complex and often debilitating condition [7]. Only by integrating this information may we, as clinicians, tailor therapy consistent with the pain profile, goals of therapy, and with the level of risk. In this series of articles, clinicians across the continuum of care—pain specialists, primary care clinicians, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and psychologists—share their best practices and contribute important insights into pain management. Together, we hope they provide a practical framework within which clinicians may improve their diagnostic skills and opioid-based multimodal treatment of chronic pain syndromes. It is generally accepted that chronic pain is not a unitary phenomenon; rather, clinical and laboratory studies have shown that the pain experience is governed by multiple pathophysiologic mechanisms. Normal sensation requires an appropriate balance among inhibitory and …
Charity without Borders: Alms-Giving in New Spain for Captives in North Africa

During the fifteenth to eighteenth centuries, the plight of Spaniards kidnapped into Muslim slavery in North Africa weighed heavily upon their countrymen's minds, but it was also a matter of concer...
Gamma-ray irradiation effects on InAs/GaSb-based nBn IR detector

IR detectors operated in a space environment are subjected to a variety of radiation effects while required to have very low noise performance. When properly passivated, conventional mercury cadmium telluride (MCT)-based infrared detectors have been shown to perform well in space environments. However, the inherent manufacturing difficulties associated with the growth of MCT has resulted in a research thrust into alternative detector technologies, specifically type-II Strained Layer Superlattice (SLS) infrared detectors. Theory predicts that SLS-based detector technologies have the potential of offering several advantages over MCT detectors including lower dark currents and higher operating temperatures. Experimentally, however, it has been found that both p-on-n and n-on-p SLS detectors have larger dark current densities than MCT-based detectors. An emerging detector architecture, complementary to SLS-technology and hence forth referred to here as nBn, mitigates this issue via a uni-polar barrier design which effectively blocks majority carrier conduction thereby reducing dark current to more acceptable levels. Little work has been done to characterize nBn IR detectors tolerance to radiation effects. Here, the effects of gamma-ray radiation on an nBn SLS detector are considered. The nBn IR detector under test was grown by solid source molecular beam epitaxy and is composed of an InAs/GaSb SLS absorber (n) and contact (n) and an AlxGa1-xSb barrier (B). The radiation effects on the detector are characterized by dark current density measurements as a function of bias, device perimeter-to-area ratio and total ionizing dose (TID).
Internal and tape sorting using the replacement-selection technique

A general technique for sequencing unsorted records is presented. The technique is shown to be applicable for the first stage of a generalized sort program (the formation of initial strings) as well as for sorting records within a memory storage (an internal sort). It is shown that given N records in memory storage, records are sequenced using 1+log2N tests per record, that initial string lengths will average 2N for random input records, and that reading, writing and processing can be accomplished simultaneously if the computer permits such overlap.
T-cell costimulation blockade in immunologic diseases: role of CD28 family members.

The destruction of many immune-mediated diseases is a result of T-cell responses against usually harmless antigens. Extensive research has been conducted to discover new mechanisms to specifically modulate harmful effector T cells while leaving normal immune responses intact. Since proteins of the CD28 family members are expressed on T cells, blockade of these proteins has become a possible target for potential therapies. The CD28 family contains proteins that have the ability to both enhance and diminish T-cell responses. Therefore, blockade of targets that enhance T-cell signaling may reduce destructive autoimmune responses, while blockade of targets that diminish T-cell signaling may enhance antitumor responses. In this article, the function of these proteins will be reviewed and a sample of clinical trials highlighting the potential efficacy and drawbacks of their use in humans will be described briefly. Finally, inducible costimulator and programmed death-1, two future targets of T-cell therapies, wi...
Effects of Heat Treatment and Subsequent Storage on the Concentration of Ionized Calcium in Skimmilk

Abstract Raw skimmilk, with and without bactericide, was sealed in 150 ml sterile cans. Each group was divided into five subgroups. One received no further treatment whereas the remaining four were heated in water baths for one hour at 60, 72, 83, and 94 C, cooled in ice water, then stored at 2 C. Samples from each treatment were analyzed daily up to 10 days for ionized calcium. Hydrogen peroxide and 2-phenoxyethanol were the bactericides. A decrease in ionized calcium resulted in heated milk. In most cases, the more intense the heat treatment, the greater the decrease in ionized calcium. Effect of heat treatments on the milk appeared to be irreversible even after 10 days at 2 C.
Effects of nicotine abstinence and menstrual phase on task performance

Both menstrual phase and nicotine have been shown to affect task performance. Though conflicting results have been reported, at least one well-controlled study has demonstrated that women at midluteal phase show superior performance on speech articulation and speeded motor coordination tests, but poorer performance on perceptual-spatial tests, than during menses. Smokers have demonstrated superior performance on numerous tasks following nicotine than following placebo. To explore the separate and combined influence of these factors, we studied 13 regularly-menstruating smokers using a two (smoking vs. 12 hours' abstinence) by two (menstrual vs. midluteal phase) factorial design. During each session, subjects completed a test battery including two speeded motor coordination tasks, a computerized reaction time test, and the Stroop (1935) color/word test. Subjects completed the Stroop color and color-word tasks significantly faster after ad lib smoking than after overnight abstinence. No other significant differences emerged. Our findings replicate, in an all-female sample, previous reports that speed of cognitive processing is reduced by nicotine abstinence (or enhanced by nicotine administration). Our failure to observe menstrual cycle effects raises the possibility that the anti-estrogenic effects of smoking may attenuate phase differences in performance.
The nuclear hormone receptor DAF-12 has opposing effects on Caenorhabditis elegans lifespan and regulates genes repressed in multiple long-lived worms.

Summary The orphan nuclear hormone receptor gene daf-12 in Caenorhabditis elegans plays a key role in the regulation of development and determination of adult longevity. To understand the effects of daf-12 on aging we characterized the lifespan of loss-of-function and gain-of-function daf-12 alleles that have been identified on the basis of their effects on dauer development. We find that these mutations have opposing effects on longevity and resistance to oxidative and thermal stress which makes daf-12 the first gene with alleles that can extend or shorten lifespan. We find that the shortened lifespan of the loss-of-function mutation is due to accelerated aging in young adulthood rather than an adverse effect of the mutation on development. Microarray analysis of worms carrying the two alleles revealed a relatively small number of genes differentially expressed between the two genotypes. Comparison of the expression profiles with the profiles associated with dauer formation and long-lived daf-2 mutants revealed that while the profiles are largely different, there is significant overlap among the genes down-regulated, but not up-regulated, in all profiles. Several of these genes down-regulated in multiple long-lived worms have known effects on lifespan, and many of the genes belong to a family of poorly characterized genes that are strongly down-regulated in dauers, daf-2 mutants, and long-lived daf-12 mutants. Our results point to daf-12 modulating aging and stress responses in part through the repression of specific genes, and emphasize the role that the repression of genes that curtail maximal lifespan plays in lifespan determination.
Partial Purification and Characterization of a Putative Prohormone-Processing Enzyme Complex from Bovine Pituitary

A putative prohormone-processing enzyme complex with specificity toward basic residues was partially purified from whole bovine pituitary glands. The complex is basic, binding to S-Sepharose at pH 8.2. The pH optimum of the enzyme is around 8.0. The enzyme is capable of cleaving proenkephalin and is present in at least three forms with relative molecular masses of about 36,000, 58,000, and 90,000 Da. The proteinase complex is inhibited by soybean trypsin inhibitor, limabean trypsin inhibitor, and aprotinin, but not by inhibitors of thiol proteinases or metal chelators. Our results indicate that this proteinase is a trypsin-like serine esterase with properties appropriate to that of a prohormone-processing enzyme.
Status of vehicular mounted mine detection (VMMD) program

The U.S. Army has launched a developmental program called Vehicular Mounted Mine Detector (VMMD) to improve upon the labor intensive, high risk, hand-held process. This Vehicular Mounted Mine Detector programs goal is to develop a vehicular mounted mine detection capability for the mounted military soldier. This VMMD system will be comprised of active and passive sensor technology. Sensor fusion and automatic target recognition (ATR) algorithms will be key assets used to improve the detection capabilities and reducing the false-alarm problem. All of the sensors will be employed in a downward-looking (close-in) configuration and mounted onto an existing military vehicle for demonstration. The current status of the VMMD system is discussed in this paper along with the sensing technologies, processing capabilities, test issues and sites and preliminary results.
Seefahrt in der Antike: Das Schiffs- und Seewesen bei Herodot - by Arvid Göttlicher

Seefahrt in der Antike: Das Schiffs‐ und Seewesen bei Herodot ARVID Gottlicher 192 pp., 30 b&w illustrations WGB, Hindenburgstrasse 40, 64295 Darmstadt, Germany, 2006, €44.90 (hbk), ISBN 3‐534‐183...
Evolution and success of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate.

Aims : The purpose of this article is to review the development of instruments, current technique, and expected outcomes for holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP). Materials and Methods : A review of published, peer-reviewed articles focusing on HoLEP was performed using the MEDLINE database. Results : Historically, the gold-standard management for symptomatic obstructing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) has been transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). With the development of new laser technology minimally invasive surgical procedures have been introduced in an attempt to decrease the morbidity experienced with standard TURP. Laser treatment of BPH has evolved from coagulation to complete adenoma enucleation. The holmium laser was initially utilized for prostate ablation and soon evolved into holmium laser tissue resection, but was limited by difficulties with extracting the prostate tissue from the bladder. With the development of a compatible tissue morcellator whole prostate lobes could be enucleated similar to an open prostate enucleation and the HoLEP procedure was developed. Currently HoLEP is the only procedure to demonstrate superior outcomes to TURP on urodynamic studies and long-term studies demonstrate its durability up to 7 years post procedure. Changes in enucleation technique have also increased the efficiency of the HoLEP procedure, such that any sized prostate can be treated. Conclusions : HoLEP is a safe and effective surgical treatment for symptomatic BPH, dependent on a high powered laser and morcellation system. The procedure continues to gain acceptance due to excellent short and long-term results, its wide application, and further simplification of technique.
Uplift-based limits to the thickness of ice in the Lake Agassiz basin of North Dakota during the Late Wisconsinan

Abstract Upper and lower limits to ice thickness in the southern Lake Agassiz basin (northeast North Dakota) during the Late Wisconsinan have been calculated. The oldest well-preserved tilted strandline of glacial Lake Agassiz, the Herman, was used to determine how much the basin was depressed by the ice sheet and, from that, how much ice was necessary to cause the given depression. Based upon the difference in elevation between the southernmost part of the strandline near Dumont, MN, and where it crosses the US–Canadian border, the absolute minimum rebound (and thus, earlier depression) in the southern Lake Agassiz basin is 54.5 m. The rebound that occurred over the 300 years between deglaciation and the Herman level of Lake Agassiz was added, yielding a total initial depression of 70 m. The added effects of about 46 m of accumulated lake sediments has caused an unrecovered crustal depression of approximately 23 m. Total minimum depression, therefore, was about 93 m. Assuming that up to 73% of rebound was “restrained”, the initial depression may have been as much as 340 m. These values (93 to 340 m) were used to calculate minimum and maximum ice thicknesses in the basin of 250 to 920 m, respectively. These thicknesses correspond to basal shear stress values of 0.32 to 4.4 kPa, respectively.
Comparative metabolism of benzo[f]quinoline by liver microsomes from brown bullheads and rats.

Abstract 1. Liver microsomes from rats were considerably more active in metabolizing benzo[ƒ]quinoline (B ƒ Q) than those from brown bullheads ( Ictalurus nebulosus ). 2. The main B ƒ Q metabolites formed by both rat and brown bullhead liver microsomes were qualitatively similar and included B ƒ Q-7,8-dihydrodiol, B ƒ Q-9,10-dihydrodiol, B ƒ Q-N-oxide, 7-hydroxy B ƒ Q, and 9-hydroxy B ƒ Q. 3. The liver microsomes from control brown bullheads and rats metabolized B ƒ Q primarily at the 7,8-and 9,10-positions, respectively, whereas in the case of microsomes from 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MC)-treated rats or brown bullheads, the major site of metabolic attack was the 7,8-position. 4. A 3-MC-type of cytochrome P-450 appears to be primarily responsible for the oxidation of B ƒ Q by control brown bullhead liver microsomes, whereas a phenobarbital-inducible type of cytochrome P-450 seems to be involved in the metabolism of B ƒ Q by control rat liver microsomes.
Temporary Arterial Obstruction: Effect on Perilymph Oxygen and Microphonics

The principal source of oxygen to the cochlea is the arterial blood supply. When blood flow (oxygen delivery) is stopped the reserves of oxygen in the cochlea are very limited and begin to fall in a few seconds. The oxygen reserves drop in a linear fashion and are exhausted in about 100 seconds. The oxygen reserve in the cochlea can maintain normal cochlear function (microphonic output) for only a few seconds after blood flow stops. After this cochlear function drops reaching a 50% level in 40 seconds. With return of blood flow cochlear oxygen tension recovers in a linear manner while cochlear function recovers more rapidly. Full recovery of normal blood flow, normal oxygen reserves and cochlear function can be obtained even after 6 minutes of obstruction of the internal auditory artery. When blood flow resumes the initial velocity may be two to three times normal. In a short period (i.e. 100 seconds) depending on the duration of the obstruction, blood flow velocity returns to normal. This is an indicatio...
Neurotransmitters and neuromodulators during early human development

Background: Neurotransmitters such as monoamines appear in the embryo before the neurones are differentiated. They may have other functions than neurotransmission during embryogenesis such as differentiation and neuronal growth. For example, serotonin may act as a morphogen. A number of neuropeptides are expressed during ontogenesis, but their function has been difficult to establish. Maybe some of them remain as evolutionary residues. Fast-switching neurotransmitters like the excitatory amino acids and the more ionotropic receptors dominate in the human brain, but appear probably later during evolution as well as during ontogeny. Methods: The distribution of catecholamines during development has been analysed with a fluorescense method, while most of the other neuortransmitters have been mapped with immunohistochemical methods. The classical method to determine the physiological role of a neurotransmitter or modulator is to study the physiological effect of its antagonist, blocking the endogenous activity. By transgenic technique, the genes encoding for enzymes involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters can be knocked-out. Major findings: Pharmacological blocking of endogenous activity has, for example, demonstrated that adenosine suppresses fetal respiration. Knocking out the dopamine beta-hydroxylase gene results in fetal death, suggesting that noradrenaline is essential for survival. Some neurotransmitters change their effect during embryogenesis, e.g. GABA which is excitatory in the embryo, but inhibitory after birth due to a switch from a high to low chloride content in the nerve cells. It is possible that this is of importance for the wiring of neuronal network in early life. NMDA receptors dominate in the foetus, while kainate and AMPA receptors appear later. At birth, there is a surge of neurotransmitters such as catecholamines, which may be of importance for the neonatal adaptation. Conclusions: Neurotransmitters and modulators are not only important for the neural trafficking in the embryo, but also for the development of the neuronal circuits. Prenatal or neonatal stress (hypoxia), as well as various drugs, may disturb the wiring and cause long-term behavioural effects (fetal and neonatal programming).
Complex contagion and the weakness of long ties in social networks: revisited

Diseases, information and rumors could spread fast in social networks exhibiting the small world property. In the diffusion of these 'simple contagions', which can spread through a single contact, a small network diameter and the existence of weak ties in the network play important roles. Recent studies by sociologists [Centola and Macy 2007] have also explored 'complex contagions' in which multiple contacts are required for the spread of contagion. [Centola and Macy 2007] and [Romero et al. 2011] have shown that complex contagions exhibit different diffusion patterns than simple ones. In this paper, we study three small world models and provide rigorous analysis on the diffusion speed of a k-complex contagion, in which a node becomes active only when at least k of its neighbors are active. Diffusion of a complex contagion starts from a constant number of initial active nodes. We provide upper and lower bounds on the number of rounds it takes for the entire network to be activated. Our results show that compared to simple contagions, weak ties are not as effective in spreading complex contagions due to the lack of simultaneous active contacts; and the diffusion speed depends heavily on the the way weak ties are distributed in a network.We show that in Newman-Watts model with Ө(n) random edges added on top of a ring structure, the diffusion speed of a 2-complex contagion is Ω(3√n and O(5√n4logn) with high probability. In Kleinberg's small world model (in which Ө(n) random edges are added with a spatial distribution inversely proportional to the grid distance to the power of 2, on top of a 2-dimensional grid structure), the diffusion speed of a 2-complex contagion is O(log3.5n) and Ω (log n/log logn) with high probability. We also show a similar result for Kleinberg's hierarchical network model, in which random edges are added with a spatial distribution on their distance in a tree hierarchy. In this model the diffusion is fast with high probability bounded by O(logn) and Ω(logn/log logn), when the number of random edges issued by each node is Ө(log2n). We also generalize these results to k-complex contagions.
Secure verification of location claims with simultaneous distance modification

We investigate the problem of verifying location claims of mobile devices, and propose a new property called simultaneous distance modification (SDM). In localization protocols satisfying the SDM property, a malicious device can lie about its distance from the verifiers, but all distances can only be altered by the same amount. We demonstrate that the SDM property guarantees secure verification of location claims with a small number of verifiers even if some of them maliciously collude with the device. We also present several lightweight localization protocols that satisfy the SDM property.
A comparison of the effects of equine luteinizing hormone (eLH), equine growth hormone (eGH) and human recombinant insulin-like growth factor (hrIGF-I) on steroid production in cultured equine Leydig cells during sexual maturation

There are several hormones and local testicular factors involved in the initiation and control of steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis during puberty. GH and its mediator, IGF-I, increase substantially during puberty, and in addition to LH, these growth-promoting hormones can have direct effects upon testicular function. The objective of this work was to investigate the effects of eLH, eGH and hrIGF-I upon Leydig cells derived from testes of colts and stallions representing different stages of development. Testes were obtained from 48 light horse colts and stallions at the time of routine castration, horses were categorized according to age group (prepubertal, pubertal and postpubertal) and a Leydig cell enriched preparation was utilized for cell culture. Cells derived from all 48 horses were treated with doses of eLH, and a subset of 21 horses received doses of eGH and hrIGF-I. Cells were plated at a concentration of 1 x 10(6) cells/ml and incubated for 24 h at 32 degrees C. Production of testosterone and estradiol was measured by validated RIA. Leydig cells from prepubertal colts secreted greater basal amounts of testosterone but lesser basal amounts of estradiol compared with the other age groups (p < 0.001). Pubertal stallions exhibited the greatest relative response to eLH (p < 0.05). Neither eGH nor hrIGF-I elicited a steroidogenic response over baseline concentrations in any of the three age groups.
Nonlinear analysis via global–local mixed finite element approach

A computational algorithm, based on the combined use of mixed finite elements and classical Rayleigh–Ritz approximation, is presented for predicting the nonlinear static response of structures; The fundamental unknowns consist of nodal displacements and forces (or stresses) and the governing nonlinear finite element equations consist of both the constitutive relations and equilibrium equations of the discretized structure. The vector of nodal displacements and forces (or stresses) is expressed as a linear combination of a small number of global approximation functions (or basis vectors), and a Rayleigh–Ritz technique is used to approximate the finite element equations by a reduced system of nonlinear equations. The global approximation functions (or basis vectors) are chosen to be those commonly used in static perturbation technique; namely a nonlinear solution and a number of its path derivatives. These global functions are generated by using the finite element equations of the discretized structure. The potential of the global–local mixed approach and its advantages over global–local displacement finite element methods are discussed. Also, the high accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed approach are demonstrated by means of numerical examples.
Shared data management needs adaptive methods

Object-based client caching allows clients to keep more frequently accessed objects while discarding colder objects that reside on the same page. However, when these objects are modified and sent to the server, it may need to read the corresponding page from disk to install the update. These 'installation reads' are not required with a page-based cache because whole pages are sent to the server. The relative effectiveness of the two cache techniques depends crucially on the application workload and on the object layout on pages. In a large system, when many applications share data objects, customizing cache management to either an object-based or a page-based configuration may not be optimal to any of the applications. We describe a hybrid system that permits clients to cache objects and pages. The system uses a simple cache design that combines the best of object caching and page caching. The client increases its cache hit ratio as in object-based caching. The client avoids some installation reads by sending pages to the server when possible. Using simulated workloads, we explore the performance of our design and show that it can offer a significant performance improvement over both pure object caching and pure page caching on a range of workloads.
Secondary Psychiatric Schools: Characteristics and Approaches to Curriculum

This study focused on approaches to curriculum, as well as school, principal, and student characteristics in secondary day treatment and residential psychiatric schools. A national random sample of 148 principals responded to a survey. No statistically significant differences existed between respondent and nonrespondent schools with regard to region, public versus nonpublic, enrollment, or locale. More than 80% of schools were accredited by their state department of education. The primary role of day treatment and residential schools was to help youth obtain a high school diploma. The most common basis for curriculum was the use of state curriculum or individual education programs. Math and reading curriculum, instructional materials, and professional development were rarely reported to align to a great extent with state assessments. The authors provide additional results and implications.
Promoting Normal Physiologic Birth through Partnership with Consumers, Providers, and Hospitals

Poster Presentation Purpose for the Program Increasing access to care that promotes and supports physiologic birth is a major national strategy for achieving high‐quality, high‐value, maternity care. The multidisciplinary Normal Birth Task Force works to engage consumers and professionals in efforts to promote full‐term physiologic childbirth. Proposed Change Quality improvement efforts that aim to reduce cesarean births and improve overall birth outcomes will require participation from various disciplines: nurses, nurse–midwives, physicians, doulas, hospital administration, and quality managers. The Normal Birth Task Force was created in response to the need for strategies to increase access to normal, physiologic childbirth. The Normal Birth Task force created a three‐stage approach to expanding implementation of evidence‐based maternity care. Implementation, Outcomes, and Evaluation Collective public interest in high quality, safe, and effective health care has drawn attention to the procedure‐intensive birth culture in the United States. The American College of Nurse–Midwives (ACNM) Normal Birth Task Force was created in 2012 in response to the need for strategies to increase women's access to normal, physiologic childbirth and to support evidence‐based maternity care. The group evaluated data, created implementation plans, and communicated processes to consumers, providers, and hospital systems. The task force created a consumer education and engagement document, a policy and quality focused document aimed at facility‐level decision makers and a toolkit that allowed health care providers to access materials to support change, increase implementation, and gather quality metrics that support normal, physiologic birth through implementation of evidence‐based maternity care. Implementation of these strategies is in effect at various facilities across the United States. Quality and safety reporting indicators have been implemented for perinatal care. Obstetric interventions are overused and misused in many settings, whereas beneficial practices that promote optimal maternal and newborn health are often underused. The Joint Commission's Perinatal Core Measures are amenable to improvement by implementing physiologic care with demonstrable results. Implications for Nursing Practice The Normal Birth Task Force created tools for the implementation of various strategies aimed at achieving tangible outcomes for consumers, professionals, and facilities. These tools can be implemented immediately by nurses to increase the support of evidence‐based maternity care at their facilities.
Peripheral myelin protein-22 is expressed in CNS myelin

Myelin abnormalities exist in schizophrenia leading to the hypothesis that oligodendrocyte dysfunction plays a role in the pathophysiology of the disease. The expression of the mRNA for the peripheral myelin protein-22 (PMP-22) is decreased in schizophrenia and recent genetic evidence suggests a link between PMP-22 and schizophrenia. While PMP-22 mRNA is found in both rodent and human brain it has been generally thought that no protein expression occurs. Here we show that PMP-22 protein is present in myelin isolated from adult mouse and human brain. These results suggest that PMP-22 protein likely plays a role in the maintenance and function of central nervous system (CNS) myelin and provide an explanation for why altered PMP-22 expression may be pathophysiologically relevant in a CNS disorder such as schizophrenia.
Behavioral interventions may prolong remission in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs) are chronic, relapsing and remitting gastrointestinal conditions with no known cure. Previous studies have linked behavioral factors, including stress and medication adherence, to relapse. Purpose We sought to determine the effect of participation in a behavioral self-management program on incidence of flare within 12 months following behavioral intervention when compared to the natural history of flare incidence prior to program participation. Results Results from a 2-level regression model indicated that those participants in the treatment group were 57% less likely to flare in the following 12 months (compared to 18% in the control group). The decline in “flare odds” was about 2 times greater in treatment versus controls (OR = 0.52, t (34) = 2.07, p p Conclusions We have demonstrated 1) a statistical model estimating the likelihood of flare rates in the 12 months following a behavioral intervention for IBD (compared to a control condition), and 2) that the introduction of a behavioral intervention can alter the natural course of a chronic, relapsing and remitting gastrointestinal condition such as IBD.
The Stretch-Resistant Flames of Seshadri and Peters

Abstract The recent demonstration that radicals make a flame resistant to stretch has greatly enhanced our understanding of laminar flame behavior. Using chain-branchingJchain-breaking kinetics, proposed by Zeldovich and discussed by Linan, Seshadri and Peters have shown that (except in certain limits) the burning rate of the flame changes only in proportion to the (weak)stretch caused by slight flow divergence. Here we explore more fully the implications of their analysis showing, in particular, that the stretch decelerates the flame in all practical cases, as Karlovitz predicted.
Hybrid rule engine for operational policy management

Rule set is used in many rule engines as the rule model structure. Such kind of model is insufficient in describing some operation logic with explicit sequence. This paper aims to categorize the business rules from three dimensions including rule sequence, context object and condition fragility. And the impact of these characteristic to rule model, language and algorithm is discussed. A hybrid rule flow structure is proposed to meet all of these requirements. Air cargo loading is adopted as the case study to show the hybrid rule engine technology.
Preparation of cationic nanogels for nucleic acid delivery.

Cationic nanogels with site-selected functionality were designed for the delivery of nucleic acid payloads targeting numerous therapeutic applications. Functional cationic nanogels containing quaternized 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate and a cross-linker with reducible disulfide moieties (qNG) were prepared by activators generated by electron transfer (AGET) atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) in an inverse miniemulsion. Polyplex formation between the qNG and nucleic acid exemplified by plasmid DNA (pDNA) and short interfering RNA (siRNA duplexes) were evaluated. The delivery of polyplexes was optimized for the delivery of pDNA and siRNA to the Drosophila Schneider 2 (S2) cell-line. The qNG/nucleic acid (i.e., siRNA and pDNA) polyplexes were found to be highly effective in their capabilities to deliver their respective payloads.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use Among Adults With Migraines/Severe Headaches

(Headache 2011;51:1087-1097) Objective.— Our objective was to determine patterns, reasons for, and correlates of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use by US adults with migraines/severe headaches. Background.— While many patients with chronic conditions use CAM, little is known about CAM use by adults with migraines/severe headaches. Methods.— We compared CAM use between adults with and without self-reported migraines/severe headaches using the 2007 National Health Interview Survey (n = 23,393), a national cross-sectional survey. Results.— Adults with migraines/severe headaches used CAM more frequently than those without (49.5% vs 33.9%, P < .0001); differences persisted after adjustment (adjusted odds ratio = 1.29, 95% confidence interval [1.15, 1.45]). Mind–body therapies (eg, deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga) were used most commonly. More than 50% of adults with migraines/severe headaches reporting CAM use had not discussed it with their health care provider. Nonetheless, those with migraines/severe headaches used CAM more often than those without because of provider recommendation and because conventional treatments were perceived as ineffective or too costly. Correlates of CAM use among adults with migraines/severe headaches included anxiety, joint or low back pain, alcohol use, higher education, and living in the western USA. Only 4.5% of adults with migraines/severe headaches reported using CAM to specifically treat their migraines/severe headaches. Conclusions.— CAM is used more often among adults with migraines/severe headaches than those without. However, few report using CAM to specifically treat migraines/severe headaches. Mind–body therapies are used most frequently. Further research is needed to understand the effectiveness and mechanisms of CAM treatments in adults with migraines/severe headaches.