cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Yohimbine Anxiogenesis in the Elevated Plus Maze is Disrupted by Bilaterally Disconnecting the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis from the Central Nucleus of the Amygdala

The α2 adrenergic receptor antagonist yohimbine (YO) is a sympathomimetic drug that crosses the blood-brain barrier after systemic administration. YO promotes increased transmitter release from noradrenergic (NA) axon terminals in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CEA), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST), hypothalamus, and other brain regions implicated in physiological and behavioral responses to stressful and threatening stimuli. YO is potently anxiogenic in humans and experimental animals, including rats. To determine whether direct connections between the CEA and anterolateral group of BST nuclei (algBST) are necessary for YO anxiogenesis in rats, neurotoxic ibotenate lesions of the CEA in one hemisphere and the ipsi- or contralateral algBST were conducted to disrupt CEA-algBST communication uni- or bilaterally. Sham-lesioned controls received microinjections of vehicle into the CEA and algBST. Two weeks later, behavior was assessed in the elevated plus maze (EPMZ) in rats after i.p. saline or YO (1.0mg/kg). Central ibotenate lesion placement and extent was assessed post-mortem in NeuN-immunolabeled tissue sections. The ability of YO to increase anxiety-like behavior in the EPMZ was similarly robust in rats with sham lesions or ipsilateral CEA-algBST lesions. Conversely, YO anxiogenesis in the EPMZ was disrupted in rats with asymmetric lesions designed to bilaterally disconnect the CEA and algBST, whereas neither unilateral nor bilateral disconnecting lesions altered EPMZ behavior in rats after i.p. saline. We conclude that the anxiogenic effects of increased NA signaling in rats after YO require direct CEA-algBST interactions that do not shape EPMZ behavior under baseline conditions.
An empirical comparison of two subject-specific approaches to dominant heights modeling: The dummy variable method and the mixed model method

Abstract The varying (local) parameter(s) in site index models can be treated as fixed or random. Two primary subject-specific approaches to height modeling, the dummy variable method (fixed individual effects) and the mixed model method (random individual effects), were compared using Chapman–Richards type models fitted to second-rotation loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) data from a designed experiment. For height prediction of new growth series, tested on our validation subset data, the mixed model provides a new (local) parameter prediction method (termed as mixed predictor), which generally performed better than the traditional method of recovering local parameters (the least squares (LS) predictor we used). However, using the LS predictor, both the dummy variable estimation method and mixed model estimation showed almost identical prediction results. With multiple pairs of height–age measurements, no big difference was found in empirical site index prediction between the LS and mixed predictor. Theoretically, one main advantage of the mixed model approach is the ability of its mixed predictor to predict several local parameters using a single height–age pair. However, our empirical results failed to support this point.
Cryptosteady-Flow Energy Separation

Abstract : The mechanism of cryptosteady-flow energy separation is described and analyzed in its most general form, with full consideration of the effects of bearing friction or other rotor torque, and of such asymmetries as unequal discharge pressures, peripheral velocities, flow losses, prerotation velocities, and discharge angles. Equations are also developed for the proportioning of rotor nozzles in accordance with performance specifications.
A materials research paradigm driven by computation

Computational approaches in materials science and engineering have progressed significantly in recent decades and are shifting the materials research paradigm to the integration of computation, processing, and characterization. This paper presents a brief overview of the state-of-the-art of computational approaches and their power in enhancing research and development of commercial materials.
Fluorescence-enhanced absorption imaging using frequency-domain photon migration: tolerance to measurement error

Enhanced contrast of frequency-domain photon migration (FDPM) measurements for successful biomedical optical imaging may be theoretically achieved with exogenous fluorescence contrast agents. However in practice, the reduced fluorescence signals de- tected at the air-tissue interface possess significant noise when com- pared to the signals collected at the incident wavelength. In this study, we experimentally assess signal to noise ratios (SNRs) for FDPM mea- surements in homogeneous tissue-like scattering media which absorb and fluorescence. At 100 MHz, the SNR for our single-pixel FDPM signals at the incident wavelength is approximately constant at 55 dB while the corresponding fluorescence signal SNR is variable with sig- nal power and is approximately 35 dB. Using these SNR values to guide our studies on the tolerance of absorption and fluorescence- enhanced absorption imaging, we show that the noise tolerance of a Born iterative method for reconstruction of absorption from FDPM measurements at the incident wavelength cannot handle the reduced SNR that is tolerated by a Born iterative type approach for reconstruc- tion of absorption from measurements at the emission wavelength.
The Alpha-fetoprotein Promoter Is the Target of Afr1-Mediated Postnatal Repression

The α-fetoprotein (AFP) gene is transcribed at high levels in the fetal liver and is repressed at birth, leading to low but detectable levels of AFP mRNA in the adult liver. This repression is regulated, in part, by a locus that is unlinked to AFP called Alpha-fetoprotein regulator 1 (Afr1). Previous studies showed that Afr1 regulation is independent of the AFP enhancers but requires the 1-kb AFP promoter/repressor region. Here, we demonstrate that a transgene with the 250-bp AFP promoter region linked to AFP enhancer element EII is expressed in the fetal liver and is postnatally repressed. In addition, this transgene is regulated by Afr1. These data indicate that the promoter is involved in postnatal AFP repression. Furthermore, we provide a high-resolution map of the Afr1 locus on mouse chromosome 15.
A process sequence for manufacture of ultra-thin, light-trapping silicon solar cells

Abstract Extremely thin silicon solar cells are of interest for space applications. Performance models show that a surface-passivated, light-trapping silicon solar cell can have optimum thicknesses as thin as 5 μm, and maintain high efficiency down to thicknesses of under 2 μm. Such cells have specific power and extremely good radiation damage tolerance, as well as high efficiency. New methods of fabricating and handling such thin-light-trapping cells using epitaxial growth on a removable substrate are discussed. The substrate provides mechanical support to reduce breakage. When the substrate is removed, a transparent glass superstrate provides the mechanical support. By using a process technology in which a sacrificial lattice-matched CaF2 is used, it is possible to re-use the single-crystal substrate.
The repositioning of Ex-Im bank

Abstract In recent years, U.S. government policy has shifted in favor of government export support similar to that provided by other G-7 nations. In a major initiative in 1993, the Clinton administration devised a national strategy to reposition Ex-Im Bank to respond to the long-standing needs of U.S. exporters. Today, there are several hundred million dollars at Ex-Im Bank's disposal to meet or match the subsidies offered by U.S. trade rivals, and there is a determination to use such resources to help U.S. exporters compete. Yet attempts by Congress during 1995 to trim Ex-Im Bank's capacity in the name of budget cutting have reawakened the debate over export subsidies. The author asks whether it is possible that Washington will forget the adverse consequences of the two-decade failure to keep Ex-Im Bank's loan program competitive with support agencies in Japan and Europe? The article uses the 1992 OECD arrangement, with its restrictions on foreign loan programs tied to the purchase of donor exports, to examine the United States' recurring confrontations with foreign export-subsidy programs and the prospects for U.S. government export support in coming years.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Savings Vehicles

The third in a series of articles on the interaction between tax and investment issues, this article starts with a simple example: projecting constant annual after-tax retirement incomes for each of four representative investors. Each investor can save in any five savings vehicles. This analysis also considers projected retirement incomes for low-cost and average-cost annuities and three investors who differ in how quickly they realize capital gains in the taxable account. The author then uses these retirement income projections to answer nine frequently asked questions related to savings vehicles. He concludes that deductible pensions and Roth IRAs are the best saving vehicles for bonds and for stocks, for all four hypothetical investors, and for all investment horizons, and offers several broad asset location rules.
The Effect of Performing Ensemble Participation on the Ability to Perform and Perceive Expression in Music.

This study compared collegiate subjects who had participated in high school performing ensembles (participants) with subjects who had not (non-participants) on their ability to perform expressively and to perceive expression in music. In Phase I, subjects (N = 56) were asked to perform three song selections, expressively and unexpressively, using a keyboard device that required minimal skill. A panel of experts rated recorded performances for expression and accuracy. In Phase II, subjects (N = 129) listened to 54 randomly selected performances from Phase I and rated each for expression and accuracy. Results indicated that participants performed with significant ( p < .05) differentiation between expressive and unexpressive renderings in Phase I. In Phase II, participants demonstrated a significant difference ( p < .05) between their ratings of expressive and unexpressive performances. No significant difference was found between non-participants’ ratings of performances. Findings suggest that school performing ensemble participation positively influences the performance and perception of musical expression.
Comparison of hydroxyethyl starch with plasma and dextrans in severe haemodilution

A long-term comparison of hydroxyethyl starch with the commonly used blood substitutes, dextran 75, dextran 40, and buffered, homologous plasma was performed, using a haemodilution technique which clinically simulates the correction of haemorrhage. All animals receiving dextran 75, and three of four animals receiving either dextran 40 or hydroxyethyl starch survived for at least eight days. Only one animal that received buffered plasma survived more than 24 hours. Possible causes of death were discussed. The mechanisms of adaptation to the acute reduction of arterial oxygen content were similar in all groups. Whereas the mean cardiac index and coefficient of oxygen extraction rose, mean arterial blood pressure, oxygen consumption, and venous oxygen saturation declined moderately. Since no evidence of anaerobic metabolism was observed, apparently oxygen delivery to tissues was well maintained. One week following haemodilution most parameters had returned to normal values, although haemoglobin content remained less than 50 per cent of control. Hydroxyethyl starch was as adequate a colloidal substitute as dextran 40 and dextran 75 in its ability to sustain circulatory and metabolic parameters.
Controlled-release matrix tablets of ibuprofen using cellulose ethers and carrageenans: effect of formulation factors on dissolution rates.

Abstract The study was conducted to investigate the effects of carrageenans, and cellulose ethers on the drug release rates of ibuprofen controlled-release tablet matrices prepared by direct compression. Polymer blends containing carrageenans or cellulose ethers were used for the formulation and the effect of varying the polymer concentration on the release of the drug was studied. Other factors such as changes in surface topography of the matrices due to hydration were observed using a cryogenic scanning electron microscopy technique. Multiple regression analysis was used to predict the time for 50% release (t50) as a function of the concentration of the polymers used. Most of the formulations showed linear release profiles (r2≥0.96–0.99) and sustained the release of ibuprofen over 12–16 h. The highest t50 (9.3 h) was for the formulation that contained a blend of 1:2 ratio of Viscarin and HPMC, while the lowest (3 h) was for the matrices that contained a 2:1 ratio of methylcellulose and Gelcarin. The majority of the matrix tablets that contained 10% polymer disintegrated prematurely. Of all the polymer blends that were investigated, the combination of Viscarin and HPMC gave almost linear release profiles over the entire range of concentration that was studied. The least effective combination was methylcellulose in combination with HPMC. Most of the formulations released ibuprofen by an anomalous (non-Fickian) transport mechanism, except those matrices that contained methylcellulose and Gelcarin (in a 1:1 and 1:2 ratio), which showed zero-order release.
Lacan's double battlefront in the 1957–58 seminar: Constructing the graph of desire

The primary aim of this article is to clarify Lacan’s understanding of the graph of desire through a close reading of Seminar V, in which a double debate with Klein and Marx is engaged. With this clarification, I contest Žižek’s view that identifies the lower level of the graph with the symbolic, and the upper level with the symbolic shot through by the real. According to him, while at the lower level the “alienation” of the subject in the symbolic transpires, at the upper level the “separation” of the subject from the symbolic itself becomes conceivable as the dimension of the real is introduced. Against this construal, I identify the lower level with the imaginary, and the upper level with the symbolic. Žižek’s misapprehension results from neglecting the distinction Lacan makes between the symbolic that arrives in advance in the imaginary phase itself and the symbolic proper. In the concluding section, I attempt to draw out some of the main implications that this clarification has for the Lacanian critique of ideology.
Strategic Alliance Success Factors

SUMMARY There is recognition that competition is shifting from a “firm versus firm perspective” to a “supply chain versus supply chain perspective.” In response to this shift, firms seeking competitive advantage are participating in cooperative supply chain arrangements, such as strategic alliances, which combine their individual strengths and unique resources. Buyer-supplier sourcing relationships are a primary focus of alliance improvement efforts. While interest in such arrangements remains strong, it is well accepted that creating, developing, and maintaining a successful alliance is a very daunting task. This research addresses several critical issues regarding that challenge. First, what factors contribute most to long-term alliance success? Second, what conditions define the presence of those success factors? Third, do buyers and suppliers in an alliance agree on those success factors and defining conditions? The research results demonstrate a remarkably consistent perspective among alliance partners regarding key success factors, despite the acknowledgment that the resultant success is based on a relatively even, but not equal, exchange of benefits and resources. Additionally, within an alliance's intended “win-win” foundation, suppliers must recognize their innate dependence on customers. Finally, significant opportunities for improvement exist with respect to alliance goal clarification, communication, and performance evaluation.
Human immunodeficiency virus seroprevalence in female intravenous drug users: the puzzle of black women's risk.

This study of 155 female i.v. drug users found that black women had higher HIV seroprevalence than white women (21% compared to 7%, respectively, odds ratio = 3.59, 95% CI 1.28-9.98). To attempt to explain why black female i.v. drug users were more likely to test HIV antibody positive, the ethnic distribution of a series of risk factors associated with HIV seropositivity, such as needle sharing, high risk sexual behavior and history of sexually transmitted disease, was examined. Either there was no significant difference between the two groups or white i.v. drug users were more likely than blacks to engage in specific risk behaviors. Although this study failed to identify risk factors associated with higher HIV seropositivity in black female i.v. drug users, it did uncover important trends in the data. These trends are analyzed in terms of observed or possible social and cultural differences between black and white women. It is suggested that these underlying social and cultural differences may hold the key to black female i.v. drug users' greater risk of HIV infection.
Io: Are vapor explosions responsible for the 5-μm outbursts?

It is proposed that a vapor explosion of a submerged pool of liquid sulfur will remove the crust overlying an area of about 50-km diam. Thermal radiation from the exposed liquid sulfur pool with a surface temperature of 600 K is then presumed to be responsible for the 5-micron outbursts that have been observed. The explosive volcanoes are expected to leave black sulfur calderas, which are, indeed, found on the surface. The 5-micron outburst observed by Sinton (1980), on June 11, 1979 (UT), is identified with a new caldera found on Voyager 2 photographs but which had not been present on Voyager 1 pictures.
A behaviorally-based methodology for modeling system specifications

The Behaviorally-Based Methodology (BBM), a methodology for modeling behaviorally-complex system requirements specifications, is introduced in this paper. The BBM provides guidelines for a Behaviorally-Based decomposition beginning at the first stage of system development, while placing the emphasis on system behavior and providing notations to represent this behavior. In Behaviorally-Based system modeling, all active services and system behavior at each instant are presented in one place (the relevant system state). Hence, problem domain information is more easily carried through the analysis phase allowing for a clear separation between system analysis and system design. In addition, inconsistencies in describing system behavior can be avoided more easily; where such problems occur they are detected and resolved with greater facility.The BBM is compared to more functional approaches, such as Hatley and Pirbhai's approach [1], highlighting the BBM's advantages. An experiment conducted in a graduate software engineering class is described. The experiment has shown that system modeling performance was significantly improved, in both accuracy and speed, when following the BBM. These design benefits of the BBM are then discussed and illustrated.
On rheology of cross-linked polymers: 1. Slippage of polymer chains and its macroscopic modeling

Abstract A model is proposed to describe the rheologic behavior of cross-linked polymers. It is based on hypotheses of the micromechanical origin of the time-dependent behavior. Starting from the dynamics of one polymer chain, a complete thermodynamic description and a closed system of equations governing the deformation of polymers and polymer foams is constructed. The first paper of the two-paper series is concerned with the theory, while the second describes the experimental results on creep and stress relaxation in polymethacrylimide foams and compares the results with theoretical predictions.
Emotional labour demands, wages and gender: A within-person, between-jobs study

Although research suggests the important role of gender in emotional labour, its effect on the relationship between emotional labour demands and wages has not been examined explicitly. The current study investigates this relationship by testing hypotheses derived from theories of vocational choice and labour market supply and demand. Hypotheses are tested using a unique within-person, between-jobs longitudinal dataset with information on two jobs for each worker in a national sample of U.S. workers (N = 5,488). After controlling for relevant variables related to wages, results suggest men incur wage penalties of approximately 6% when moving to occupations with higher emotional labour demands. Women do not experience statistically significant wage effects from moving to an occupation with higher emotional labour demands. These findings are discussed and interpreted based on the theoretical frameworks.
Origin of emission energy blue shift in a 1.3 /spl mu/m GaAsSb type-II quantum well

Summary form only given. Vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) gain structures that can be epitaxially grown on GaAs substrates are of particular interest. One such system is the type-II GaAsSb/GaInAs/GaAs quantum well structure. For this gain structure, experiments found significant increase in the optical emission peak energy with increasing excitation. This blue shift is a serious concern because it is detrimental to long wavelength operation.This paper describes experimental and theoretical investigations of the significant blue shift of the emission peak with increasing injection current in a type-II quantum well. We find the blue shift to depend on the interplay of the competing effects of type-II quantum confinement, and the resulting Coulomb attraction and band distortion.
Transconjunctival anterior retinal cryotherapy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Abstract Transconjunctival anterior retinal cryotherapy (ARC) for proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) in 408 eyes was reviewed retrospectively. Of 266 eyes available for analysis for treatment effect on neovascularization,138 (52%) had reduced neovascularization at 6 months. Eighty (30%) had no change in neovascularization, and 48 (18%) had increased neovascularization at 6 months. Factors having a significant effect on reduction of neovascularization were duration of diabetes and severity of retinopathy. Of 238 eyes available for analysis for treatment effect on vitreous hemorrhage at 6 months, 118 (50%) had reduced vitreous hemorrhage, 80 (33%) had no change, and 40 (17%) had increased vitreous hemorrhage. Severity of vitreous hemorrhage significantly affected the outcome in the subgroup of eyes with both neovascularization and vitreous hemorrhage. Of the total 408 eyes in this series, at 6 months, 172 (44%) had improved visual acuity, 89 (23%) had no change, and 126 (33%) had decreased visual acuity. Retinal detachments developed in 17 eyes (4%) posttreatment, 68 eyes (17%) had significant recurrent vitreous hemorrhage, and 61 eyes (15%) eventually underwent vitrectomy.
Self-Optimization of Task Execution in Pervasive Computing Environments

Pervasive computing environments feature massively distributed systems containing a large number of devices, services and applications that help end-users perform various kinds of tasks. However, these systems are very complex to configure and manage. They are highly dynamic and fault-prone. Another challenge is that since these environments are rich in devices and services, they offer different ways of performing the same task; hence, it is sometimes difficult to choose the "best" resources and strategies to use at any point of time. In this paper, we describe a framework that allows the development of autonomic programs for pervasive computing environments in the form of high-level, parameterized tasks. Each task is associated with various parameters, the values of which may be either provided by the end-user or automatically inferred by the framework based on the current state of the environment, context-sensitive policies, and learned user preferences. A novel multidimensional utility function that uses both quantifiable and non-quantifiable metrics is used to pick the optimal way of executing the task. This framework allows these environments to be self-configuring, self-repairing and adaptive, and to require minimal user intervention. We have developed and used a prototype task execution framework within our pervasive computing system, Gaia (Roman et al., 2002)
External cavity tunable quantum cascade lasers and their applications to trace gas monitoring

Since the first quantum cascade laser (QCL) was demonstrated approximately 16 years ago, we have witnessed an explosion of interesting developments in QCL technology and QCL-based trace gas sensors. QCLs operate in the mid-IR region (3–24 μm) and can directly access the rotational vibrational bands of most molecular species and, therefore, are ideally suited for trace gas detection with high specificity and sensitivity. These sensors have applications in a wide range of fields, including environmental monitoring, atmospheric chemistry, medical diagnostics, homeland security, detection of explosive compounds, and industrial process control, to name a few. Tunable external cavity (EC)-QCLs in particular offer narrow linewidths, wide ranges of tunability, and stable power outputs, which open up new possibilities for sensor development. These features allow for the simultaneous detection of multiple species and the study of large molecules, free radicals, ions, and reaction kinetics. In this article, we review the current status of EC-QCLs and sensor developments based on them and speculate on possible future developments.
A Leader's Toolbelt

ABSTRACTLeaders need a variety of tools to be effective in their management, communication, and leadership. These tools should be used for specific jobs and are operational in working with some personalities but not all. Leaders can develop these tools and over time, learn when and how to effectively use them. Such tools will enhance the leader's ability to address a variety of situations and issues drawing upon expertise gained through experience.
An Afterword: The Utility of Cognitive Models for the Field of Psychopathology

Cognitive models of psychopathology provide opportunities and challenges for both the research psychopathologist and the clinician concerned with practical applications to individuals. Heterogeneity of individual pathology within diagnostic categories, heterogeneity of content within symptom categories, undue reliance on judgment-based ratings, and frequent emphasis on deficit rather than the overt behavior of the patients are some of the major issues. Others include the complex interaction between cognitive and affective processes and the fact that input-output functions are often nonlinear and marked by critical threshold values for the appearance of overt pathology. An important feature of models is the discipline that they introduce into theorizing about psychopathology plus the focus on precise quantification.
Stratigraphic Control of Flow and Transport Characteristics

Ground water flow and travel time are dependent on stratigraphic architecture, which is governed by competing processes that control the spatial and temporal distribution of accommodation and sediment supply. Accommodation is the amount of space in which sediment may accumulate as defined by the difference between the energy gradient and the topographic surface. The temporal and spatial distribution of accommodation is affected by processes that change the distribution of energy (e.g., sea level or subsidence). Fluvial stratigraphic units, generated by FLUVSIM (a stratigraphic simulator based on accommodation and sediment supply), with varying magnitudes and causes of accommodation, were incorporated into a hydraulic regime using MODFLOW (a ground water flow simulator), and particles were tracked using MODPATH (a particle-tracking algorithm). These experiments illustrate that the dominant type of accommodation process influences the degree of continuity of stratigraphic units and thus affects ground water flow and transport. When the hydraulic gradient is parallel to the axis of the fluvial system in the depositional environment, shorter travel times occur in low-total accommodation environments and longer travel times in high-total accommodation environments. Given the same total accommodation, travel times are longer when sea-level change is the dominant process than those in systems dominated by subsidence.
Sexual Dysfunction among Older Adults: Prevalence and Risk Factors from a Nationally Representative U.S. Probability Sample of Men and Women 57–85 Years of Age

Introduction Despite increasing demand for clinical interventions into sexual problems in an aging population, epidemiological data on the subject are scarce.
A Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Cascade in the CA1/CA2 Subfield of the Dorsal Hippocampus Is Essential for Long-Term Spatial Memory

Behavioral, biophysical, and pharmacological studies have implicated the hippocampus in the formation and storage of spatial memory. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying long-term spatial memory are poorly understood. In this study, we show that mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK, also called ERK) is activated in the dorsal, but not the ventral, hippocampus of rats after training in a spatial memory task, the Morris water maze. The activation was expressed as enhanced phosphorylation of MAPK in the pyramidal neurons of the CA1/CA2 subfield. In contrast, no increase in the percentage of phospho-MAPK-positive cells was detected in either the CA3 subfield or the dentate gyrus. The enhanced phosphorylation was observed only after multiple training trials but not after a single trial or after multiple trials in which the location of the target platform was randomly changed between each trial. Inhibition of the MAPK/ERK cascade in dorsal hippocampi did not impair acquisition, but blocked the formation of long-term spatial memory. In contrast, intrahippocampal infusion of SB203580, a specific inhibitor of the stress-activated MAPK (p38 MAPK), did not interfere with memory storage. These results demonstrate a MAPK-mediated cellular event in the CA1/CA2 subfields of the dorsal hippocampus that is critical for long-term spatial memory.
Business graphics: Making computers work for management

Computers have not become a more important part of the decision making process because they often present a bewildering array of numbers that must be interpreted. Computer graphics help make computers a powerful management tool by presenting the data in a form that can be quickly understood. Computer graphics aid managers in forecasting trends, analyzing and presenting data, and increasing the decision-support system interaction. Uses of such systems are culminating in sophisticated board room graphics applications which aid top-level management in making decisions.
Gibbs artifact reduction by nonnegativity constraint.

UNLABELLED This paper proposes a 2-step image reconstruction method in which the nonnegativity constraint in the iterative maximum-likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM) algorithm is used to effectively reduce Gibbs ringing artifacts. METHODS Gibbs artifacts are difficult to control during imaging reconstruction. The proposed method uses the postprocessing strategy to suppress Gibbs artifacts. In the first step, a raw image is reconstructed from projections without correction for point spread function (PSF). The attenuation correction can be performed in the first step by using, for example, the iterative MLEM or ordered-subsets expectation maximization (OS-EM) algorithm. The second step is a postprocessing procedure that corrects for the PSF blurring effect. If the target features (e.g., hot lesions) have a positive background, removing the background before application of the postprocessing filter significantly helps with target deblurring and Gibbs artifact suppression. This postprocessing filter is the image-domain MLEM algorithm. The background activity is attached back to the foreground after lesion sharpening. RESULTS Computer simulations and PET phantom studies were performed using the proposed 2-step method. The background removal strategy significantly reduced Gibbs artifacts. CONCLUSION Gibbs ringing artifacts generated during image reconstruction are difficult to avoid if compensation for the PSF of the system is needed. The strategy of separating image reconstruction from PSF compensation has been shown effective in removal of Gibbs ringing artifacts.
Prevention, evaluation, and treatment of leaks after gastrointestinal surgery : prevention of leaks after pancreatic surgery.

Pancreatic fistula remains a frequent and serious complication following pancreatic surgery. The incidence ranges from 10–20% in most series, with pancreatic texture being the most common predictor of the complication. There is little level 1 evidence to support any potential measures to reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula.
Recursive digital filter structures using new high speed convolution algorithms

This paper applies some of the new high speed convolution algorithms that are based on factoring polynomials to recursive filters by using block structures. Various schemes that use a minimum number of multiplications are considered. It is found that it is always possible to reduce the required multiplies below that required by a canonical realization and the new algorithms are better than the FFT for orders below about 100.
Sleep apnea in heart transplant recipients: type, symptoms, risk factors, and response to nasal continuous positive airway pressure.

Abstract Background We determined the type, symptoms, and risk factors for sleep apnea in heart transplant recipients and the response to nasal continuous positive airway pressure. Methods A retrospective study on heart transplant recipients with sleep apnea was conducted in a tertiary care medical center with follow-up telephone interviews. Between February 1988 and August 1998, 147 patients underwent orthotopic heart transplantation at our institution. Seventeen patients (11.6%) who were suspected of having sleep apnea underwent polysomnography at a mean interval of 17.5 months after transplantation. Results All were diagnosed with sleep apnea: 13 had obstructive sleep apnea and 4 had mixed sleep apnea. Mean age at polysomnography was 50.8 years (range, 24–67 years). The patients presented with snoring (100%), excessive daytime somnolence (65%), witnessed apneas (53%), and morning fatigue (53%). Sixteen (94%) had a mean weight gain of 10.4 kg after transplantation, and 1 patient lost 14.6 kg. In the 11 patients with obstructive sleep apnea who underwent nasal continuous positive airway pressure titration, significant improvements occurred in the apnea-hypopnea index (decreased from 37.6 to 10.4; p = 0.01) and mean arousal index (decreased from 44.5 to 19.4; p = 0.01). Only 2 of the 8 patients with sleep apnea for whom nasal continuous positive airway pressure was recommended continued to use it at the time of telephone follow-up. Conclusions Sleep apnea, especially obstructive sleep apnea, occurs frequently in heart transplant recipients. Obstructive sleep apnea appears to present in the typical manner, and although a positive response to nasal continuous positive airway pressure can be documented by polysomnography, long-term use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure may be low.
RESPIRATORY RATE AND DEPTH OF OCCURRENCE OF MIDWATER ANIMALS1

Studies on 12 species of pelagic crustaceans and fishes show that deeper-living species have lower rates of oxygen consumption than do shallower-living species under comparable conditions. Thus, zooplankton may make a rather small contribution to the total oxygen consumption at greater depths in the oceans.
Neutrino clustering in cold dark matter halos: Implications for ultrahigh energy cosmic rays

We develop a method based on the collisionless Boltzmann equation to calculate the gravitational clustering of relic neutrinos in realistic cosmological models dominated by cold dark matter (CDM) and the cosmological constant. This method can be used to estimate the phase-space distribution of any light particles in CDM halos. We find that neutrinos with masses $\ensuremath{\gtrsim}0.3\mathrm{eV}$ cluster appreciably in dark matter halos above the galactic size. The resulting neutrino overdensity above the cosmic mean neutrino density increases with both the neutrino mass and the halo mass, ranging from $\ensuremath{\sim}10$ for 0.3 eV neutrinos in $\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{13}{M}_{\ensuremath{\bigodot}}$ halos to $\ensuremath{\sim}1500$ for 1.8 eV neutrinos in $\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{15}{M}_{\ensuremath{\bigodot}}$ halos. We examine the implications of neutrino clustering for the Z-burst model of ultrahigh energy cosmic rays (UHECR), which interprets the observed events at $Eg4\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{19}\mathrm{eV}$ as decay products of Z bosons from the resonant scattering between relic and high energy neutrinos and antineutrinos. We estimate the UHECR energy spectrum for various neutrino masses towards five of the most massive clusters in the local universe (within 100 Mpc): Virgo, Perseus-Pisces, Hydra, Centaurus, and Coma. The UHECR flux in the Z-burst model is expected to be significantly higher towards these clusters if ${m}_{\ensuremath{\nu}}\ensuremath{\gtrsim}0.3\mathrm{eV}$ and nearly isotropic otherwise.
A statistical approach to retrieval under user-dependent uncertainty in query-by-humming systems

Robustly addressing uncertainty in query formulation and search is one of the most challenging problems in multimedia information retrieval (MIR) systems. In this paper, a statistical approach to the problem of retrieval under the effect of uncertainty in Query by Humming (QBH) systems is presented. Direct transcription of audio to pitch and duration symbols is performed. From the transcribed data vector, finger prints that carry a fixed length of information from characteristic local points of the hummed melody are extracted. Instead of employing the humming input as a whole, extracted characteristic information packages are used for search through the database. The distance for each finger print to the original melodies in the database is calculated and converted to probabilistic similarity measures. Melodies with the highest similarity measures are returned to the user as the most likely query result. This algorithm is tested with manually annotated data comprising 250 humming samples in conjunction with a database of 200 pre-processed midi files. Retrieval accuracy of 94 percent is demonstrated for the samples of subjects that have some musical training/background compared to 72 percent accuracy achieved for the samples of non-trained subjects. Results also show that extracting finger prints with respect to characteristic local points of the hummed tune is an effective and robust way for search and retrieval under the effect of uncertainty
Analyzing and Improving a BitTorrent Networks Performance Mechanisms

In recent years, BitTorrent has emerged as a very scalable peer-to-peer file distribution mechanism. While early measurement and analytical studies have verified BitTorrent’s performance, they have also raised questions about various metrics (upload utilization, fairness, etc.), particularly in settings other than those measured. In this paper, we present a simulationbased study of BitTorrent. Our goal is to deconstruct the system and evaluate the impact of its core mechanisms, both individually and in combination, on overall system performance under a variety of workloads. Our evaluation focuses on several important metrics, including peer link utilization, file download time, and fairness amongst peers in terms of volume of content served. Our results confirm that BitTorrent performs near-optimally in terms of uplink bandwidth utilization, and download time except under certain extreme conditions. We also show that low bandwidth peers can download more than they upload to the network when high bandwidth peers are present. We find that the rate-based tit-for-tat policy is not effective in preventing unfairness. We show how simple changes to the tracker and a stricter, block-based tit-for-tat policy, greatly improves fairness.
Leadership conceptual ambiguities

The authors propose a postmodern critique of modernist leadership traits research and offer a robust theoretical and methodological alternative to overcome the ambiguous conceptual use of transformational and charismatic leadership traits. A content analysis of leadership studies from 1999 to 2008 in peer-reviewed journals and management texts was conducted to identify those salient characteristics often associated with leadership traits. Given the evasive nature of the researched phenomenon and the lack of typical quantitative rigor, our quasi-meta-analysis revealed 10 distinctive intrapersonal and interpersonal referents or social perceptions used by researchers when describing leadership traits and the effects of those traits on workers in general. Based on the 10 organizational and social icons deduced from the content analysis, the authors offered a postmodern leadership evaluation matrix as a substitute performance metric in an organizational setting, thus eliminating modernist conceptual ambiguities tied to the leader–worker dyadic in varying organizational contexts. The findings suggest that leadership researchers should consider complex behavioral decision-making processes that result in emergent group performances instead of focusing on a leader's ephemeral behavioral traits.
How should educational neuroscience conceptualise the relation between cognition and brain function? Mathematical reasoning as a network process

Background: There is increasing interest in applying neuroscience findings to topics in education. Purpose: This application requires a proper conceptualisation of the relation between cognition and brain function. This paper considers two such conceptualisations. The area focus understands each cognitive competency as the product of one (and only one) brain area. The network focus explains each cognitive competency as the product of collaborative processing among multiple brain areas. Sources of evidence: We first review neuroscience studies of mathematical reasoning–specifically arithmetic problem-solving and magnitude comparison–that exemplify the area focus and network focus. We then review neuroscience findings that illustrate the potential of the network focus for informing three topics in mathematics education: the development of mathematical reasoning, the effects of practice and instruction, and the derailment of mathematical reasoning in dyscalculia. Main argument: Although the area focus has hi...
Using Neutral Singular Vectors to Study Low-Frequency Atmospheric Variability

Abstract The authors explore the use of the “neutral vectors” of a linearized version of a global quasigeostrophic atmospheric model with realistic mean flow in the study of the nonlinear model's low-frequency variability. Neutral vectors are the (right) singular vectors of the linearized model's tendency matrix that have the smallest eigenvalues; they are also the patterns that exhibit the largest response to forcing perturbations in the linear model. A striking similarity is found between neutral vectors and the dominant patterns of variability (EOFs) observed in both the full nonlinear model and in the real world. The authors discuss the physical and mathematical connection between neutral vectors and EOFs. Investigation of the “optimal forcing patterns”—the left singular vectors—proves to be less fruitful. The neutral modes have equivalent barotropic vertical structure, but their optimal forcing patterns are baroclinic and seem to be associated with low-level heating. But the horizontal patterns of th...
Naturally Occurring, Iatrogenic and Transgenic Models of Atherosclerotic Disease

Atherosclerosis in humans is a complex, multifactorial process usually occurring in large conduit arteries over prolonged periods of time. It is a chronic inflammatory disease, the result of interaction between atherogenic stimuli and the response of the arterial wall. Immune responses play a major role. There are predisposing genetic factors and a number of risk factors involved including hyperlipidemia, hypertension, obesity, smoking, and type-1 (insulin-dependent) and type-2 (noninsulin-dependent) diabetes.
Modeling Homo Socialis: A Reply to Critics

The comments on Dirk Helbing and my paper âHomo Socialis: An Analytical Core for Sociological Theoryâ have provided many insightful suggestions. Several, such as Siegwart Lindenbergâs (2015) proposal to include flexible activation to the core and David Wolpertâs (2015) persona model, I take to be interesting complements to our suggestions. Others, such as Michael Macyâs (2015), include admirable interpretations of our argument. I will here address a subset of issues where commentators have questioned some aspects of our proposal. I thank the commentators for helping me think more carefully about some key issues.
Flexor Tendon Repair With Looped Suture: 1 Versus 2 Knots

Purpose To assess the strength of flexor tendon repair with looped suture. We hypothesized that, after passing the intact looped suture in the desired repair configuration, splitting the loop and tying 2 independent knots would increase the strength of flexor tendon repair. Methods Thirty-two flexor tendons were harvested and were sharply transected in zone II. The tendons were repaired with a 4-strand core suture repair using 3-0 looped nonabsorbable nylon suture. The harvested tendons were randomly assigned and repaired with either a 1- or a 2-knot construct. The repaired flexor tendons were fixed in a servohydraulic material testing system and were loaded to failure either with uniaxial tension or cyclically. Results The average force at failure was 43 N for the 1-knot repair and 28 N for the 2-knot repair. The mode of failure of 15 of the flexor tendon repairs that were cyclically loaded to failure was suture pull-out. The average number of cycles and force in cyclic testing that caused failure of flexor tendon repairs was 134 cycles and 31 N for tendons repaired with looped 3-0 suture tied with 1 knot and 94 cycles and 33 N for tendons repaired with looped 3-0 suture tied with 2 knots. Conclusions Our hypothesis was disproved by the results of this study. Clinical relevance This study suggests that, when using looped suture, tying 2 independent knots instead of tying a single knot does not increase the strength of the flexor tendon repair.
Does a Race-Gender-Age Crossover Effect Exist in Current Cigarette Smoking Between Non-Hispanic Blacks and Non-Hispanic Whites? United States, 2001-2013.

INTRODUCTION For years, national US surveys have found a lower prevalence of cigarette smoking among non-Hispanic (NH) black adolescents and young adults than their NH white counterparts while finding either similar or higher prevalence in NH blacks among older adults. We present results from four US surveys, including one supplemented by cotinine data, to determine if a race-gender-age crossover effect exists between NH black and NH white current cigarette smokers. METHODS We present NH black and NH white current cigarette smoking estimates in the National Youth Tobacco Survey (2004-2013), National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2002-2013), National Health Interview Survey (2001-2013), and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2001-2012). RESULTS All surveys consistently found that NH black females aged 12-25 years had a lower smoking prevalence than NH white females of the same age while NH black males aged 26 years or older had a higher smoking prevalence than NH white males of the same age. Results were inconsistent between surveys for current smoking estimates for males 12-25 years and females aged 26 years or older. CONCLUSION Our results are inconclusive in consistently detecting the existence of a race-gender-age crossover effect for current cigarette smoking between NH blacks and NH whites. National birth cohort studies are better suited to detect a race-gender-age crossover effect in smoking prevalence between these two racial groups.