cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Universal aspects of curved, flat, and stationary-state Kardar-Parisi-Zhang statistics.

Motivated by the recent exact solution of the stationary-state Kardar-Parisi-Zhang (KPZ) statistics by Imamura and Sasamoto [Phys. Rev. Lett. 108, 190603 (2012)], as well as a precursor experimental signature unearthed by Takeuchi [Phys. Rev. Lett. 110, 210604 (2013)], we establish here the universality of these phenomena, examining scaling behaviors of directed polymers in a random medium, the stochastic heat equation with multiplicative noise, and kinetically roughened KPZ growth models. We emphasize the value of cross KPZ-class universalities, revealing crossover effects of experimental relevance. Finally, we illustrate the great utility of KPZ scaling theory by an optimized numerical analysis of the Ulam problem of random permutations.
Computerized tomographic imaging of cryosurgical iceball formation in brain

Computerized tomography (CT) was used to monitor the exact anatomical location and dimensions of the cryosurgical iceball within the brain. The gross and microscopic appearance of the tissue iceball was examined in both acute and chronic animals. Iceball formation was monitored in the brain of four dogs under a general anesthesia. The radiographic image of the iceball was that of a well-demarcated radiolucent sphere that disappeared upon thawing. The post-thaw contrast-enhanced CT scan revealed a zone of blood-brain barrier breakdown extending no more than 1 mm beyond the maximum diameter that the iceball had attained. Histological examination demonstrated a sharp transition from frankly necrotic brain within the iceball to the normal cytoarchitecture of the surrounding neuropil. The safety and efficacy of a neurosurgical ablative procedure depends on the precision with which it can be generated. The use of CT imaging to monitor the formation of the cryosurgical iceball offers the neurosurgeon a means to precisely control the size of the ablative lesion. Small deeply situated brain tumors can be incorporated into the iceball under direct CT observation, thereby ensuring the completeness of the cryoablation while minimizing damage to the surrounding brain.
Rationalization of Drug Complexation in Aqueous Solution by use of Hückel Frontier Molecular Orbitals

The complexation of certain drug molecules with niacinamide in aqueous solution was explained by the application of Huckel frontier molecular orbital calculations. A linear relationship was observed between the association constants derived from phase solubility studies and the interaction energy predicted by frontier molecular orbital calculations.
Surgical correction of a rectovaginal fistula

Abstract A modification of a transplantation procedure to repair congenital vaginal-anus is described. This procedure may serve as an alternative to a primary closure when the rectum lies above the external sphincter muscle and little tissue is available to build a perineal body.
More power to them--statistically, that is: a commentary on Studdert-Kennedy, Mody, and Brady's criticism of a critique.

The power analysis discussed above establishes that it was most unlikely that Mody et al. (1997) could make a meaningful test of the Tallal hypothesis because of inadequate n and failure to specify the effect size. Note that this is a best-case scenario, because the power analysis assumes that the analysis of variance assumptions were within reasonable boundaries (e.g., as specified by Norton's study). This was clearly not the case. In summary, the Mody et al. study fails to meet minimal scientific criteria and makes no meaningful contribution to the literature.
ADENOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE (ATP) AND RED BLOOD CELL (RBC) GLYCOLYTIC INTERMEDIATES IN PRETERM INFANTS ON THE FIRST DAY OF LIFE

RBC glycolytic intermediates and ATP were evaluated on the first day of life in 47 appropriate for gestational age preterm infants divided into 3 groups, 28-30 wks, 31-33 wks, and 34-36 wks, and compared to prior results in term infants. Mean concentrations of glucose-6-P (G-6-P), triose P (TTP), and ATP were significantly higher than in term infants (G-6-P: 77.3±11.4 vs 53.3±8.6; TTP: 27.7±10.8 vs 19.2±6.9; ATP: 1365±220 vs 1056±144 nmoles/ml RBC, respectively), but were appropriately elevated for the young mean age of the RBC population (G-6-P: 66.5±23.1; TTP: 22.9±5.3; ATP: 1320±231). The concentration of RBC 2,3-DPG was significantly decreased when compared to term infants (4691±383 nmoles/ml RBC) and was lowest at 28-30 wks (3567±618). An increase in 3-phosphoglycerate was noted in preterm infants and was inappropriately elevated for RBC age at 28-30 wks (68.0±10.2 vs 55.5±7.5 nmoles/ml RBC in young RBC's). This pattern of glycolytic intermediates suggests a young RBC population metabolizing at increased glycolytic rate with increased flow through the phosphoglycerate kinase reaction rather than the 2,3-DPG bypass in "normal" preterm infants. In 2 infants 28-30 wks with low intracellular pH (6.866; 7.010), there was a marked decrease in 2,3-DPG (2281; 1882 nmoles/ml RBC), ATP (650; 750 nmoles/ml RBC), and all intermediates distal to the phosphofructokinase (PFK) step, indicating a crossover at PFK secondary to acidosis. These studies show normal preterm infants have RBC's that are at a metabolic disadvantage that increases with hypoxia and/or acidosis.
Pharmacodynamics of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Protease Inhibitors

Many factors are involved in the success or failure of antiretroviral therapy. Recent data suggest that there are significant differences in drug absorption and disposition for the protease inhibitor class of antiretroviral drugs, and relationships between plasma concentrations and their antiviral effect have been described. Consequently, the issue of whether therapeutic drug monitoring should be employed for patients receiving treatment with these drugs has arisen. Several criteria must be met before a drug is considered a candidate for therapeutic drug monitoring. These criteria include pharmacological, clinical, and analytic components. Although not all the necessary criteria have yet been met, some of these components have been defined, and additional data are being generated. However, prospectively designed clinical trials must be completed to determine if monitoring protease inhibitor plasma concentrations provides additional clinical benefit to the patient.
A combinatorial approach to surface contacts in solid phase reactions

Abstract Macro-kinetic models for solid phase reactions require information about the contact area between reactants. A classical probability is presented to calculate the expectancy value for contact between two specified species when three different solid phases are present in the system. Consider the generic reaction a A(s)+ b B(s)→ c C(s,g) (if C is volatile the two-phase problem results). The expectancy value depends on the surface area densities σ i = N i v where N i denotes the particle density of species i and v i is the volume per particle—instead of using distributions, the analysis is based on average particle sizes. To include the important role of particle geometry, the reactants are modeled as rectangular rhombi. The differences in reaction rate are investigated for cubes (quasi-spheres), platelets and needles by adjusting the aspect ratios. As the reaction proceeds reactants are consumed and products form that change the probabilities for reactant contacts. The evolution of particle sizes must be tracked and mechanisms that affect particle sizes must be included in the model. The dimensions change with reaction, compression and fracture. Fracture is described by the Hiramatsu–Oko equation that relates bed pressure with an equilibrium dimension. The particle size of the (solid) product depends specifically on the reaction mechanism. To illustrate the combinatorial approach, it is applied to a mechanism where C desorbs from the A/B interface, but then it either nucleates to form C particles or adsorbs on existing C particles. Factors that influence the reaction rate are initial particle sizes, aspect ratios, fracture criteria and stoichiometry.
Inaccessible hydroxyl groups on silica are accessible in supercritical CO2.

The three main types of hydroxyl groups on a silica surface are classified as isolated, hydrogen bonded, and inaccessible. The isolated and hydrogen bonded groups are the most important as these readily exchange with D2O and thus are exposed to reactant molecules. However, it has generally been accepted that the inaccessible groups do not participate in surface reactions as only a small fraction of these groups exchange with D2O. It is shown that the inaccessible hydroxyl groups on nonporous fumed silica and mesoporous MCM-48 silica powders and films fully exchange with D2O and are reactive with octadecylydimethylchlorosilane when supercritical CO2 is used as the solvent. Furthermore, it is found that the CO2 penetrating the regions containing the inaccessible groups is not removed by simple evacuation but rather slowly diffuses from the silica over periods of months.
Energy redistribution path tracing

We present Energy Redistribution (ER) sampling as an unbiased method to solve correlated integral problems. ER sampling is a hybrid algorithm that uses Metropolis sampling-like mutation strategies in a standard Monte Carlo integration setting, rather than resorting to an intermediate probability distribution step. In the context of global illumination, we present Energy Redistribution Path Tracing (ERPT). Beginning with an inital set of light samples taken from a path tracer, ERPT uses path mutations to redistribute the energy of the samples over the image plane to reduce variance. The result is a global illumination algorithm that is conceptually simpler than Metropolis Light Transport (MLT) while retaining its most powerful feature, path mutation. We compare images generated with the new technique to standard path tracing and MLT.
Dreaming of Justice: Critical Service-Learning and the Need to Wake Up.

I examine and question whether the goal, or dream, of service-learning has been actualized in practice. I raise the possibility that what educators dream of—a critical service-learning able to ameliorate persistent real-world inequities—may be a case of their dreaming being fulfilled, rather than their dreams. More specifically, I argue that although the dream of critical service-learning has been incredibly successful at driving research and practice in higher education, it has not fulfilled the goal of impacting the very people and communities educators purport to serve. Thus, the groups most wishing for the success of critical service-learning are those whose dreams are most fulfilled. I offer a set of tenets that, I hope, will encourage educators to dream different dreams.
Association of ATP citrate lyase with mitochondria

Abstract (1) The association of ATP citrate lyase with mitochondria was studied with isolated rat hepatocytes and mitochondria. (2) When hepatocytes were treated with digitonin, about 25% of the lyase activity was released like a mitochondrial enzyme. (3) The effect of temperature on release of lyase from hepatocytes was different from that on the release of other cytosolic or mitochondrial enzymes. (4) The fraction of total hepatic lyase in mitochondrial preparations made with exogenous MgCl 2 was 30 times greater than that for a cytosolic marker enzyme, phosphoglycerate kinase. (5) Lyase substrates enhanced the release of the enzyme both from hepatocytes and from isolated mitochondria. (6) The metabolic significance of association of ATP citrate lyase with mitochondria is discussed. (7) Data obtained in the course of these experiments indicate that less than 3% of adenylate kinase is cytosolic.
IN VITRO TEST SYSTEMS FOR CANCER CHEMOTHERAPY. II. CORRELATION OF IN VITRO INHIBITION OF DEHYDROGENASE AND GROWTH WITH IN VIVO INHIBITION OF EHRLICH ASCITES TUMOR.

SummaryChemotherapeutic compounds of clinical values as well as those of wide effectiveness in animal tumor systems are shown to give varying responses in vitro. The extent of inhibition caused by any one compound in vitro ranges from none to significant, depending upon the exact in vitro conditions. The dehydrogenase enzyme inhibition test was the most successful on the basis of correlation with extension of survival time of mice bearing the same tumor used in the in vitro studies.
Liquid-Phase Hydrogenation of Cyclohexene over Pt Foil Catalysts

A liquid-phase reaction cell, coupled to an ultrahigh-vacuum surface analysis chamber, was built to study liquid-phase hydrogenation reactions on small area model catalyst surfaces. The hydrogenation of cyclohexene to cyclohexane was studied at about 1.5 atm total pressure of H{sub 2} and as a function of temperature in the 313-333 K range in liquid cyclohexene. The hydrogenation rate of cyclohexene on a clean Pt surface increased with the increasing circulation velocity of the liquid, indicating that the reaction rate was controlled by hydrogen diffusion to the surface. When the surface reaction rate was reduced by the deposition of hydrocarbon fragments on the platinum surface, the rate of cyclohexene hydrogenation became independent of hydrogen diffusion and became controlled by the kinetics of the surface reaction. The estimated activation energy of the reaction is 6 kcal/mol for cyclohexene hydrogenation on a platinum foil that was partly covered with carbonaceous deposits. 10 refs., 5 figs., 1 tab.
Gas-Phase Organolanthanide (Ln) Chemistry: Formation of Ln+−{Benzene} and Ln+−{Benzyne} Complexes by Reactions of Laser-Ablated Ln+ with Cyclic Hydrocarbons

Nascent laser-ablated lanthanide metal ions, Ln+, were reacted with cyclohexacarbons, C6H6+2n (n = 0, 1, 2, or 3), and the resulting organometallic complex ions, {Ln+}−{CpHq}, were identified by time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Cyclohexane and cyclohexadiene were especially reactive, primarily undergoing one or more dehydrogenations to produce adduct ions corresponding to the benzene and benzyne complexes, {Ln+}−{C6H6} and {Ln+}−{C6H4}. Also identified as minor products were the “sandwich” complexes, {C6H6}−{Ln+}−{C6H6}. Carbon−carbon bond activation was generally an unimportant reaction channel, with small yields of {Ln+}−{CpHq} for p ≤ 5. Significant differences were observed in product yields and distributions between the several Ln+ studied, providing the following comparative reactivities: Ce+ ≳ Tb+ ≳ Gd+ ≈ Pr+ ≳ Ho+ ≳ Dy+ ≳ Lu+ > [Sm+/Tm+/Eu+/Yb+ unreactive]. These differences are explained by the metal ion ground state electronic configurations (typically 4fn-1 6s1) and promotion energies (PE) fo...
Sexual Dysfunction in Male Veterans with Epilepsy

Abstract Much has been written about sexual dysfunction in men with epilepsy. We wanted to determine the frequency and nature of sexual disorders in our highly selected population of male veterans. Charts of the 184 men with epilepsy followed in the Neurodiagnostic Clinic, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC were reviewed to determine reports of sexual dysfunction. Demographics, type of epilepsy, localization, and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) at the time of complaints were noted. These patients were compared to 20 men with epilepsy without reported sexual dysfunction (control group). Forty-one (22%) patients complained of sexual dysfunction (impotence 56%, decreased libido 37%, difficulty maintaining erection 22%, and other disorders 15%). Mean age at evaluation was 48.3 years for patients and 44.8 years for controls. Mean age of onset of seizures was 34.0 and 29.3 years for patients and controls, respectively. 93% of patients and 95% of controls had partial seizures. The AEDs (phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproate, phenobarbital, and primadone) were used with approximately equal frequency in both groups. Fifty-nine percent of patients and 65% of controls were on monotherapy, 34% and 25% on dual therapy, 5% each on triple therapy, and 2% and 5% on no medication. Sexual dysfunction is a common problem in our population of veteran men with epilepsy. Age of onset and type of seizures and the medications used were comparable in patients and controls.
Dynamic Parallel Memories

Say that a parallel algorithm that uses p processors and N (>p) shared memory locations is given. The problem of simulating this algorithm by p processors and only p shared memory locations without increasing the running time by more than a constant factor is considered. A solution for a family of such parallel algorithms is given. The solution utilizes the idea of dynamically changing locations of the addresses of the algorithm throughout the simulation.
Technology and applications for encapsulated spermatozoa.

Abstract A technique for microencapsulation of bovine spermatozoa has been developed with minimal spermatozoal injury and thus, a potential use in artificial insemination (AI). Membranes made of the following polymers have proven best: poly-l-lysine, polyarginine, polyvinylamine, and protamine sulfate. Successful encapsulation has been achieved for capsules ranging in size from 0.75 to 1.5 mm, and sperm concentrations from 45 to 180 × 106 cells/ml. Successful buffers include Cornell University Extender and egg yolk citrate - glycerol (maximum 10% v/v egg yolk for normal capsular shape). Capsule fragility (ability to rupture under aging and physical stress) was negatively related to membrane thickness which ranges from 1.92 μm to 5.32 μm (controlled by polymer concentration, molecular weight, and exposure time) and positively to concentration of sperm encapsulated. On delivery to the porcine reproductive tract, the capsule constructed of poly-l-lysine membranes ruptured between 12 and 24 hr after insemination. Heterospermic studies have shown that encapsulated sperm are capable of fertilization in vivo, but are at a disadvantage to unencapsulated sperm when AI is at conventional times following detection of estrus.
Operant photic evoked potential control, unmediated by selective orientation

Abstract Four rats were operantly conditioned to increase late negative components of photic evoked potentials. The expected positive relation between component size and light intensity assuming trivial mediation via selective orientation was ruled out both experimentally and correlatively.
Extending partial isomorphisms of graphs

Let X be a finite graph. Then there exists a finite graph Z containing X as an induced subgraphs, such that every isomorphism between induced subgraphs of X extends to an automorphism of Z.
Automated intraoperative EMG testing during percutaneous pedicle screw placement.

Abstract Background EMG screw testing has been shown to be sensitive and reliable in open spinal instrumentation cases. However, there is little evidence to show its applicability to percutaneous screw placement. Purpose To demonstrate the utility of EMG testing in percutaneous techniques, where lack of direct visualization poses an added risk to nerve injury. Study design Summary of intraoperative EMG results during percutaneous pedicle screw placement. Methods Percutaneous pedicle screws were placed in twenty patients (22 levels, 88 pedicles). The initial fluoroscopically-guided k-wires and the subsequent taps were insulated and stimulated via an automated EMG system. Low threshold values prompted repositioning of the pedicle trajectory. Results Four (5%) k-wires induced EMG thresholds less than 10mA, prompting repositioning. One was repositioned without improvement, but with improvement upon tapping. One k-wire with very low threshold (3mA) was repositioned with an improved result (13mA). In 78 pedicles (89%) the tap threshold was greater than the k-wire. Conclusions EMG testing helps to identify suboptimal screw trajectories, allowing for early adjustment and confirmation of improved placement. Tapping often improved thresholds, perhaps by compressing the bone and creating a denser, more insulative pedicle wall. EMG testing may improve the safety of percutaneous screw techniques, where the pedicle cannot be visually inspected.
Self-consistent, non-“muffin-tin” k·p-APW method

Abstract A hybrid k·p -augmented plane wave method is proposed for the rapid computation of self-consistent energy bands and density-of-states functions, using k·p interpolation from the Brillouin zone center. Non-“muffin-tin” corrections are readily included.
Using Models of Carbon Isotope Fractionation during Photosynthesis to Understand the Natural Fractionation Ratio

The fractionation correction b is used to correct for the fractionation of 14 C by using information from 13 C in samples. This value is assumed to have a value of 2, where the 14 C/ 12 C ratio is double that of the 13 C/ 12 C ratio. While natural and laboratory fractionation are usually not considered separately, this article explores the differential fractionation of 14 C and 13 C during the process of photosynthesis. Values of δ 13 C p can be used to calculate Δ 13 C p values, which in turn can be used to calculate Δ 14 C p , the discrimination against 14 CO 2 during photosynthesis. Models can then be built of Δ 14 C p /Δ 13 C p , an approximation for the natural fractionation ratio. This approximation suggests that for C 3 plants the ratio is ~1.90 and for C 4 plants the ratio is more variable. While error introduced by the natural fractionation is small, it is also possibly systematic, as b = 2.0 does not seem physiologically possible following these models of carbon fractionation during photosynthesis. The central aim of this study is to illustrate that b derives not from a natural constant, but rather from a variable natural process. DOI: 10.2458/56.16155
Observations on the efficiency of sub-irrigation in heavy soils

The interest in sub-irrigation has lately been revived because of its successful application in a number of sandy soils, peats, and some heavy soils in the Netherlands. In heavy soils the difficulty is encountered that water extraction by roots tends to exceed moisture replenishment from a water table. This is related to the slow capillary movement in heavy soils and to the fact that the rate of this movement declines progressively as the soil-moisture content is further depleted by the roots. The rate can be maintained where the soil is kept moist by occasional rain storms during the period of sub-irrigation. This point is illustrated by experimental work at Rukuhia. Measurement of pasture production at various depths of water table and under varying climatic conditions showed that sub-irrigation can be quite successful if supplemented by rain; in the absence of rain sub-irrigation was quite inefficient. Some observations have been referred to which show that substantial amounts of water can be derived from a water table, even in heavy soils, where active roots penetrate close to it, but an undue rise in the level of the water table should be averted in that case.
The plasmon puzzle in perturbative thermal QCD

Abstract An appealing explanation for the diverse non-perturbative phenomena that exist in the deconfined phase of high-temperature quantum chromodynamics is the hypothesis that the perturbative vacuum is unstable on a large scale. Colour plasma oscillations about such a false vacuum should display a negative decay rate. However, various calculations of this rate disagree as to both magnitude and sign. Here, these calculations are examined critically, their discrepancies resolved and a viable non-Abelian linear-response formalism identified. It is shown that a physically meaningful calculation of the plasmon decay rate must necessarily include non-perturbative information, which could make the stability issue undecidable in perturbation theory.
Calligraphic poling of Lithium Niobate.

We demonstrate a novel technique for instituting complex and arbitrary shaped micron-scale domain patterns in LiNbO3 at room temperature. Fabrication of continuous domains as narrow as 2 µm across and hexagonal patterns of the same order accompanied by real time visualization of the poling process are presented.
The significance of personal and family characteristics in occupational outcome by sex

Which personal and family characteristics best separate women in nontraditional professions from women in traditional professions? Do these same characteristics also distinguish between men in traditional and nontraditional professions? These questions are addressed through a discriminant analysis of professional respondents to the General Social Surveys from 1972 through 1985. Of the 12 personal and family characteristics considered in the study, seven significantly discriminated between women in traditional and nontraditional professions, while five significantly discriminated between men in traditional and nontraditional professions. Only father's occupational prestige and respondent's age significantly discriminated for both women and men. As a group the variables selected for study discriminated almost as well for men as for women. This challenges the sexist assumption of the gender model of work which alleges that personal and family characteristics are important considerations for women workers only.
Steady-state imaging for visualization of endovascular interventions.

Steady-state imaging techniques offer the potential to couple high spatial and temporal resolution with good signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which makes them ideally suited for fluoroscopic applications. However, disturbance of the steady state can result in artifacts and substantially reduced signal levels. In this study the use of steady-state imaging techniques was investigated as a means of guiding endovascular interventions with fluoroscopic MRI. Devices containing localized susceptibility defects were shown to disturb the steady-state signal of spins that pass through the magnetic field disturbances. It was demonstrated that these effects are appreciable and can make delineation of interventional devices difficult in the presence of flow. T(1)-shortening contrast agents were shown to dramatically reduce these effects by reducing the time taken to achieve steady state. The addition of a blood pool agent in an in vivo model was found to be necessary for adequate visualization of a dysprosium-marked catheter.
Lost Bird Of Wounded Knee: Spirit Of The Lakota

* A Spirit Journey Home * The Massacre at Wounded Knee * The Lost Bird * A Trophy of War * The Suffrage Mother * The Lion of the Party * Kicking Bears Prayer * The Heart Wound * Back Alleys * Scandal * Whites Only * Cuba Libre! * The Trip Abroad * The Missing Bond * My Hearts Blood
Associations between Parental Psychological and Behavioral Control and Youth Internalized and Externalized Behaviors

In this study, psychological control of children was conceptually and empirically distinguished from behavioral control. Further, it was demonstrated as hypothesized that psychological control was more predictive of adolescent internalized problems, and that behavioral control was more predictive of externalized problems. Subjects were 473 fifth-, eighth-, and tenth-grade males and females from a Southern suburb. Control was measured by the Child Report of Parent Behavior Inventory and the Colorado Self-Report of Family Functioning Inventory. Problem behaviors were measured with the Child Behavior Checklist. First- and second-order factor analyses discriminated psychological and behavioral control, and structural equation analyses demonstrated the differential prediction of internalized and externalized problems. These last analyses were conducted using youth-reported data and validated using a subsample of 227 mother-youth pairs.
Two-dimensional delay-line anode detector for astronomical imaging

Progress is reported in the development and testing of a microchannel-plate anode detector for a satellite-based all-sky survey in the FUV. A preliminary FWHM-resolution value of 6- microns and a linearity of 15 microns have been achieved. Optimization of the electronics should improve the resolution by a factor of four and improve the linearity to 10 microns over the entire field. It should be possible to increase the detector format to hundreds of sq cm with no degradation of resolution or increase in complexity.
Confirmation and consequences of a reduced pion-nucleon coupling constant

We address some misconceptions concerning the low values of \ensuremath{\pi}NN coupling constant recently extracted from pp and \ensuremath{\pi}N scattering data. We discuss the effect of this lower coupling on other systems. Suggestions are made for future investigations.
Defining appropriate professional behavior for faculty and university students on social networking websites

The vast majority of university students have profiles on social networking sites (e.g., Myspace, Facebook) (Salaway et al. 2008). However, it is yet to be determined what role this rapidly evolving method of communication will play in an academic setting. Data for the current study was collected from 459 university students and 159 university faculty members. Participants’ opinions regarding faculty/student interaction on social networking sties (SNSs) were analyzed. Over one-third of the students and a quarter of the faculty participants reported that it is inappropriate for faculty members to have accounts on SNSs. Significant disagreement existed between the faculty and students, as well as among the faculty and among the students regarding what constitutes appropriate professional professor/student interaction on SNSs.
Circadian rhythms of locomotor activity in naked mole-rats (Heterocephalus glaber)

A wide variety of organisms exhibit various circadian rhythms in their behavior and physiology. Circadian rhythms are regulated by internal clocks that are generally entrained primarily by the environmental light:dark (L:D) cycle. There have been few studies of circadian rhythms in fossorial species that inhabit an environment where day-night variations are minimal and where exposure to light occurs infrequently. In this study, circadian patterns of wheel-running activity were examined in naked mole-rats (Heterocephalus glaber). Naked mole-rats are fossorial and eusocial, living in colonies of 60-70 animals with only one breeding female. Most individual mole-rats that ran on wheels (65%) exhibited robust circadian rhythms of locomotor activity, entrained to various L:D cycles, and free-ran in constant darkness (DD) with taus averaging 23.5 h. The remainder of the animals either free-ran or were arrhythmic under the various L:D cycles. Mole-rats generally failed to entrain to non-24-h T-cycles with period lengths ranging from T=23 h to T=25 h. There was considerable inter-individual variation in the circadian patterns of locomotor activity in naked mole-rats as is observed in other subterranean mammals that have been studied. In contrast to the results obtained when mole-rats were individually housed with access to running wheels, circadian rhythms of general locomotor activity were typically not observed for animals monitored while they were housed in a colony setting. However, clear nocturnal rhythms of general locomotor activity were displayed by four males while residing in their home colonies. Two of these males exhibited the physical appearance of a disperser morph - subordinate individuals that are believed to leave their home colonies to achieve reproductive opportunities elsewhere. All four of these males were among the largest males in their respective colonies. These results demonstrate that although naked mole-rats are not frequently exposed to light, the species has retained the capacity to exhibit locomotor patterns of circadian rhythmicity and has the ability to entrain to 24-h L:D cycles. The possible adaptive function of this circadian capacity is discussed.
Use of perioperative hydroxyethyl starch 6% and albumin 5% in elective joint arthroplasty and association with adverse outcomes: a retrospective population based analysis

Objective To determine whether the perioperative use of hydroxyethyl starch 6% and albumin 5% in elective joint arthroplasties are associated with an increased risk for perioperative complications. Design Retrospective cohort study of population based data between 2006 and 2013. Setting Data from 510 different hospitals across the United States participating in the Premier Perspective database. Participants 1 051 441 patients undergoing elective total hip and knee arthroplasties. Exposures Perioperative fluid resuscitation with hydroxyethyl starch 6% or albumin 5%, or neither. Main outcome measures Acute renal failure and thromboembolic, cardiac, and pulmonary complications. Results Compared with patients who received neither colloid, perioperative fluid resuscitation with hydroxyethyl starch 6% or albumin 5% was associated with an increased risk of acute renal failure (odds ratios 1.23 (95% confidence interval 1.13 to 1.34) and 1.56 (1.36 to 1.78), respectively) and most other complications. A recent decrease in hydroxyethyl starch 6% use was noted, whereas that of albumin 5% increased. Conclusions Similar to studies in critically ill patients, we showed that use of hydroxyethyl starch 6% was associated with an increased risk of acute renal failure and other complications in the elective perioperative orthopedic setting. This increased risk also applied to albumin 5%. These findings raise questions regarding the widespread use of these colloids in elective joint arthroplasty procedures.
Fiber optic configurations supporting confidentiality in passive DQDB systems

A method is proposed to support confidentiality in broadcast fiber-optic LAN/MAN (local/metropolitan area network) systems. This approach, which is different from the conventional approach, is based on a fundamental property of fiber optics, viz., optical bidirectionality. That is, two distinct transmissions in opposite directions can occur simultaneously on the same channel. This property can be used to arrive at network structures to support privacy in a broadcast environment. The basic idea is that when two stations are engaged in a private conversation, they can effectively jam (or blank out) the reception at all other stations. In this sense, security close to that of point to point links is achieved in a broadcast environment. It is shown that this concept can be successfully applied to LAN/MAN systems, specifically, in the context of DQDB, to the proposed IEEE 802.6 MAN standard. Performance issues in terms of throughput are also discussed. >
An automated environment for optimizing fault-tolerant systems designs

A description is given of the computer-aided Markov evaluation (CAME) program, a computer-aided engineering (CAE) tool that automatically generates Markov models directly from a system description, providing an environment for quickly evaluating probabilistic measures of a fault tolerant system's performance. The CAME program provides an automated environment that aids a design in systematically optimizing a fault tolerant system design and, in the process, gaining insight and intuition about why the design behaves as it does. The overall processes incorporated in the CAME program are discussed with particular emphasis on its automated model reduction capabilities. An example is shown where the CAME program is used to optimize the design of a fault-tolerant, integrated navigation system. >
RESPONSES TO NORADRENALINE OF PORTAL VEIN STRIPS FROM NORMOTENSIVE AND SPONTANEOUSLY HYPERTENSIVE RATS

1 Responses to noradrenaline of isolated portal vein strips from 5–7 week and 15–17 week Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) have been examined. 2 15–17 week SHR tissues exhibited a greater sensitivity (lower ED50) to noradrenaline but only at reduced Ca2+EXT levels. 3 pA2 values for the α-adrenoreceptor antagonists WB 4101 and prazosin were significantly lower in 5–7 week SHR consistent with some change at the adrenoreceptor level. 4 Veins from SHR relaxed more rapidly in Ca2+-free saline following removal of noradrenaline than did veins from WKY. 5 D600 is a competitive antagonist of the Ca2+EXT-dependent component of the noradrenaline response but K1 values were not significantly different in SHR and WKY.
Market-Based Loss Mitigation Practices for Troubled Mortgages Following the Financial Crisis

The meltdown in residential real-estate prices that commenced in 2006 resulted in unprecedented mortgage delinquency rates. Until mid-2009, lenders and servicers pursued their own individual loss mitigation practices without being significantly influenced by government intervention. Using a unique dataset that precisely identifies loss mitigation actions, we study these methods—liquidation, repayment plans, loan modification, and refinancing— and analyze their effectiveness. We show that the majority of delinquent mortgages do not enter any loss mitigation program or become a part of foreclosure proceedings within 6 months of becoming distressed. We also find that it takes longer to complete foreclosures over time, potentially due to congestion. We further document large heterogeneity in practices across servicers, which is not accounted for by differences in borrower population. Consistent with the idea that securitization induces agency conflicts, we confirm that the likelihood of modification of securitized loans is up to 70% lower relative to portfolio loans. Finally, we find evidence that affordability (as opposed to strategic default due to negative equity) is the prime reason for redefault following modifications. While modification terms are more favorable for weaker borrowers, greater reductions in mortgage payments and/or interest rates are associated with lower redefault rates. Our regression estimates suggest that a 1 percentage point decline in mortgage interest rate is associated with a nearly 4 percentage point decline in default probability. This finding is consistent with the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) focus on improving mortgage affordability.
Rewriting Family Stories During Successful Transition From an Alternative School: One Student's Story of “Violent Female” to “Phenomenal Woman”

The case described in this article reflects a young woman's story of her personal struggle to stay in school and to participate in her family. Experiences of the student, reflecting serious personal and family problems, were limiting her ability to attend school and creating educational barriers. As a result, she was assigned to the alternative school where she re-scripted her story to make sense and give meaning to the assignment and her own identity and worth. Through interviews, family meetings, personal writings, poetry, and literature, she created a portfolio of school work, letters, and poems that told her story, past and present. With the help of the school social worker using the process of questioning in the narrative approach, the student was able to rewrite her story of violence and abuse and transform it into school and personal success. A year later, she found herself reflected in the mirror of Maya Angelou's poem “Phenomenal Woman.”
Solid-phase peptide synthesis and biological activity of bovine thymopoietin II (bTP–11)

Bovine thymopoietin (bTP), a 49 amino acid polypeptide, was synthesized using Merrifield's solid-phase peptide synthesis methodology. The polypeptide was purified using anion-exchange chromatography and reversed-phase HPLC and characterized by mass spectrometry and amino acid analysis of the full-length peptide and of products derived from digestion with Staphylococcus aureus V8 protease. The biological activity of the synthesized product was tested in several assay systems. Synthetic bTP was found to induce the expression of Thy 1.2 antigen on T-lymphocytes from athymic mice, in agreement with previous studies on the biological activity of endogenous bTP. Biological activity at skeletal muscle and neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor sites, as reported by others for bTP, could not be confirmed in our studies. The absence of biological activity at nicotinic receptor sites may be related to the results of a recent report demonstrating the presence of a cobratoxin-like molecule in preparations of natural bTP. These data indicate that synthetic peptides have an important role for the evaluation of the specificity of the biological activity of polypeptides.
Summary of: An intriguing association between dental and mental pathology in addicted and control subjects: a cross-sectional survey

Summary of: An intriguing association between dental and mental pathology in addicted and control subjects: a cross-sectional survey
Efficient distributed algorithms for data fusion and node localization in mobile ad-hoc networks

Efficient distributed algorithms are an important enabling technology for large-scale ad-hoc wireless sensor and communications networks. In this paper, optimal Bayesian data fusion under the assumption of linear Gaussian state and measurement models is presented. Within this framework, an efficient algorithm for distributed state estimation in ad-hoc networks is developed. Approximate algorithms are then developed for further improvements in network resource efficiency. These include a parameterizable tradeoff of improved communications efficiency for increased latency in the rate at which information propagates through the network. It is also shown that the algorithms are well-suited for use with non-linear measurements. Finally, for distributed node position estimation in a mobile ad-hoc network, simulation results show that accurate, efficient node localization is achieved
Dematin exhibits a natively unfolded core domain and an independently folded headpiece domain

Dematin is an actin-binding protein originally identified in the junctional complex of the erythrocyte plasma membrane, and is present in many nonerythroid cells. Dematin headpiece knockout mice display a spherical red cell phenotype and develop a compensated anemia. Dematin has two domains: a 315-residue, proline-rich “core” domain and a 68-residue carboxyl-terminal villin-type “headpiece” domain. Expression of full-length dematin in E. coli as a GST recombinant protein results in truncation within a proline, glutamic acid, serine, threonine rich region (PEST). Therefore, we designed a mutant construct that replaces the PEST sequence. The modified dematin has high actin binding activity as determined by actin sedimentation assays. Negative stain electron microscopy demonstrates that the modified dematin also exhibits actin bundling activity like that of native dematin. Circular dichroism (CD) and NMR spectral analysis, however, show little secondary structure in the modified dematin. The lack of secondary structure is also observed in native dematin purified from human red blood cells. 15N-HSQC NMR spectra of modified dematin indicate that the headpiece domain is fully folded whereas the core region is primarily unfolded. Our finding suggests that the core is natively unfolded and may serve as a scaffold to organize the components of the junctional complex.
Modeling and experimental analysis of the hyperelastic thin film nitinol

Many flexible electronic devices or endovascular biomedical devices require large deformation; however, potential materials produce limited elastic response, that is, 10% when 400% is required. In this article, a finite element model is used to design a hyperelastic thin film nitinol structure containing geometric fenestrations. The hyperelastic response is dependent upon geometric factors that produce buckling. Parametric studies provide the influence-specific parameters have on buckling load. These results are used to select three designs to manufacture and test. Experimental results indicate that elongations greater than 700% are possible.
Adaptive videogame platform for interactive upper extremity rehabilitation

Virtual reality (VR) technology is a popular application for physical rehabilitation but there is a constant need for more accessible and affordable systems. This recreational rehabilitation VR game platform can be used as an independent therapy supplement without bulky laboratory equipment and is inexpensive, motivating, and adaptable. The system can run in any lit room and the interactive features and simulations can be easily modified or imported. A real-time method of capturing hand movements with a webcam using programmed color detection mechanisms is implemented. Based on specific pixel value green and blue color markers are tracked and simultaneously given coordinates in the simulated virtual environment (VE). The player sees representations of their hands, allowing them to move and interact within the VEs. After repetition and involvement in the games, mobility of the upper extremities may improve. The platform that implements these VEs is built in Simrobot, a public domain Matlab toolbox package for autonomous robot simulation. The toolbox is expanded and optimized to create a viable platform for videogames. Alterations to the function of Simrobot include modifications to the base inputs and algorithms allowing camera initiation, color detection, and position sensor data and analysis. Objects and algorithms for movements and interactions can easily be imported thus providing the adaptable need in VR rehabilitation.
Stochastic Dominance Analysis of Soil and Water Conservation in Subsistence Crop Production in the Eastern Ethiopian Highlands: The Case of the Hunde-Lafto Area

The aim of this paper is to analyze whether investment in soil and water conservation results in a higher yield and income and/or mitigate variability in yield and income to subsistence farm households in the Hunde-Lafto area. Net returns from crop production with and without soil and water conservation (SWC) are compared based on stochastic dominance (SD) criteria. A non-parametric first order SD and normalized second order are used for data analysis. Analysis is based on the Soil Conservation Research Program (SCRP) database for the Hunde-Lafto research unit. The results of the analysis suggest that adopting a conservation strategy results in higher grain yield and net return than in not adopting. The normalized second order SD analysis results do not support the hypothesis that conservation strategy is unambiguously better than a noconservation strategy in reducing variability in yield and net return to farmers. However, conservation strategy has shown second order dominance at lower levels of yield and income that often correspond to unfavorable rainfall conditions. This makes it a preferred strategy to cope with the most prevalent risk factor of moisture shortage. Therefore, appropriate policies to help and encourage farmers to adopt SWC structures will contribute to improving the welfare of subsistence farm households in the study area and in other similar settings in the country. Designing and implementing SWC techniques that may result in unambiguous second order SD dominance will further improve the desirability and adoption of conservation measures.
Diffractive and binary optics for laser systems

Diffractive optics provides optical system designers with new and exciting degrees of freedom, which can be used to optimize laser system performance and create new optical components and systems. In this talk, the operational features, fabrication methods, and applications of diffractive optics technology will be emphasized. Applications include: aberration-correction for both monochromatic and broadband optical systems (UV to IR), laser-line-scan systems, head-mounted and head-up displays, optical-disk readout heads, null optics for optical testing, subwavelength structured surfaces for anti-reflection and polarization control, and many others. >
Teaching Software Evolution in Open Source

Most software engineering courses require students to develop small programs from scratch, but professional engineers typically work on the evolution of large software systems. Using open source software and a software change process model can narrow this gap without imposing excessive demands on students or instructors.