cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exploring the use of natural language systems for fact identification: Towards the automatic construction of healthcare portals

In prior work we observed that expert searchers follow well-defined search procedures in order to obtain comprehensive information on the Web. Motivated by that observation, we developed a prototype domain portal called the Strategy Hub that provides expert search procedures to benefit novice searchers. The search procedures in the prototype were entirely handcrafted by search experts, making further expansion of the Strategy Hub cost-prohibitive. However, a recent study on the distribution of healthcare information on the web suggested that search procedures can be automatically generated from pages that have been rated based on the extent to which they cover facts relevant to a topic. This paper presents the results of experiments designed to automate the process of rating the extent to which a page covers relevant facts. To automatically generate these ratings, we used two natural language systems, Latent Semantic Analysis and MEAD, to compute the similarity between sentences on the page and each fact. We then used an algorithm to convert these similarity scores to a single rating that represents the extent to which the page covered each fact. These automatic ratings are compared with manual ratings using inter-rater reliability statistics. Analysis of these statistics reveals the strengths and weaknesses of each tool, and suggests avenues for improvement.
University patenting and the pace of industrial innovation

Universities, traditionally sources of basic science and research knowledge for industrial researchers, have responded to recent public policy changes by increasingly patenting research results produced by academic researchers. While proponents of strong intellectual property protection argue the benefits of strong rights to promote innovation and facilitate markets for knowledge exchange, critics express concerns over restrictions on diffusion and use of upstream knowledge. Results of an analysis of industrial innovation suggest that increasing university patenting is associated with a slowing pace of knowledge exploitation, especially in technology areas that rely more heavily on science as an input to innovation. This new evidence suggests that university patenting may indeed be hindering or at least slowing industrial innovation. Copyright 2007 , Oxford University Press.
Cellular localization of cannabinoid receptors and activated G-proteins in rat anterior cingulate cortex

Abstract Cannabinoid receptors are found in moderate density throughout the cerebral cortex. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is of particular interest due its high level of cannabinoid receptors and role in behaviors known to be modulated by cannabinoids. These studies were conducted to determine the cellular localization of cannabinoid receptors and to compare the level of cannabinoid receptor binding with receptor-mediated G-protein activity in the rat ACC. Either ibotenic acid or undercut lesions were made in ACC, and brains were processed for [ 3 H]WIN 55,212-2 and WIN 55,212-2-stimulated [ 35 S]GTPγS autoradiography. Both cannabinoid receptors and receptor-activated G-proteins were highest in laminae I and VI of ACC in control tissue. Although similar levels of receptor binding were found in these laminae, significantly higher levels of receptor-activated G-proteins were found in lamina VI. Ibotenic acid lesions that destroyed ACC neurons decreased [ 3 H]WIN 55,212-2 binding by 60–70% and eliminated WIN 55,212-2-stimulated [ 35 S]GTPγS binding. In contrast, deafferentation of the ACC with undercut lesions had no significant effect on cannabinoid receptor binding or G-protein activation. These results indicate that cannabinoid receptors in laminae I and VI of the ACC are located on somatodendritic elements or axons intrinsic to the ACC. In addition, differences in the relative levels of cannabinoid binding sites and activated G-proteins between cortical laminae indicate that the efficiency of cannabinoid receptors for G-protein activation may vary within a specific brain region.
Little Book, Big Book: Before and After Little Science, Big Science: A Review Article, Part II

Since its publication in 1963, Derek Price’s Little science, big science (LSBS) has achieved ‘citation classic’ status. Examination of the genesis of LSBS and the state of the discipline of the history of science in the UK and the USA in the late 1950s demonstrates that Price’s ideas were formulated during a pivotal period in the development of socio-historical studies of science. Price’s talent for innovation and synthesis at an unsettled but highly charged time, and his appreciation of the pioneering work in science studies of the crystallographer J.D. Bernal, are reflected in the uniquely profound and wide-ranging respects in which LSBS has contributed to the development of scientometric and sociological theory.
Segmentation of medical ultrasonic image using fractal

Image segmentation is one of the most difficult problems in multidimensional reconstruction of medical ultrasonic images. A new method for segmentation of medical ultrasonic images based on fractal dimension Lacunarity is presented in this paper. As fractal features have drawbacks of less number and great redundancy, we developed a method to extend the features combining with micromasks. Experimental results show that our method can enhance the description ability of fractal features and segment the images efficiently.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The Relevance of Nonlinear Energy Localization in RNA Self‐Splicing

We implement a ϕ4-model to analyze the localization of energy in collective modes along the sugar-phosphate backbone of RNA strands. We focus on the relevance of soliton-like excitations in the site-specificity of intramolecular nucleophilic attacks leading to transesterifications in the sugar-phosphate backbone. We provide evidence supporting the view that hot spots for transesterification of catalytic RNA are caused by a combination of two factors: nonlinear energy transfer and intra-chain folding. In particular, our results might help understanding the physics of covalent cyclization and cycle-reopening in the catalytic intervening sequence (IVS) of ribosomal RNA from Tetrahymena and also they might help identifying the nucleophilic agents and cosubstrate in IVS RNA excision from rRNA.
The Formal Total Synthesis of (±)-Strychnine via a Cobalt-Mediated [2 + 2 + 2]Cycloaddition

A short, highly convergent total synthesis of racemic isostrychnine, and thus strychnine, has been completed. The route involves 14 steps in the longest linear sequence and is highlighted by a cobalt-mediated [2 + 2 + 2]cycloaddition of an alkynylindole nucleus to acetylene.
Individual and Combined Effects of Attention Deficits and Learning Disabilities on Computerized ADHD Assessment

The widespread use of computerized assessments in the diagnosis of attention deficit disorders (ADD/ADD-H) necessitates identification of factors that influence performance on these instruments. The individual and combined influence of two factors, attention deficits (determined by DSM-III) and learning disabilities (LD), on computerized ADHD assessment was evaluated in a clinic population of 253 children referred because of problems with attention or concentration, high activity levels, or poor academic achievement. Intelligence scores, levels of academic achievement, DSM-III diagnoses, parent and teacher rating scale data, and the presence of LDs were recorded. In ADD subjects, 66% also had one or more identified LD. In children without ADD, 64% were diagnosed as LD. Analyses of both summary scores (age-adjusted percentiles) and separate trial (raw) scores of a computerized assessment device indicated main effects for ADD/ADD-H on the continuous performance task (CPT) number correct and number of commis...
Method for enhancement of the rolling maneuver of a flexible wing

A technique for augmenting the aileron to increase the roll rates of a high-performance aircraft at high dynamic pressures for enhancement of the rolling maneuver is examined. Antisymmetric twist and camber distribution on a realistic flexible wing is determined to counteract the detrimental twisting moment of the aileron rotation to achieve recovery of the lost roll rates at high dynamic pressures. A method for prescribing the antisymmetric wing twist and camber distribution by reversing the twist and camber resulting from use of the aileron only is described. The retwisting and recambering of the wing is achieved by providing control forces obtained from a technique referred to as fictitious control surfaces. The technique of retwisting and recambering a flexible wing demonstrates a full recovery of roll rate at all dynamic pressures. Here, a full-scale realistic wing is considered for the assessment of strain energy as a measure of necessary control energy required to produce the antisymmetric twist and camber deformation on the aileron-twisted wing to recover the lost roll performance.
Fault-tolerant heterarchical control of heterogeneous manufacturing system entities

Abstract This paper describes a new control architecture and a set of undelying design principles for developing and implementing fault-tolerant manufacturing systems consisting of Processing machines, robots, control computers and human operators. Significant innovations in the approach include the concept of “intelligent manufactured parts”, the use of a “flat” heterarchical architecture as opposed to the widely used hierarchical architecture, unification of simulation and control in system development and operation, integration of human as “colleagues” of other entities rather than “masters”, and achievement of implicit modifiability and fault-tolerance. An experimental heterarchically controlled manufacturing system has been developed in which robotic cells manipulat and manufacture parts. The system is comprised of independent robot, part processing, manufactured part, and human entities that cooperatively control the system through messages exchanged on a communication network. Successful design and implementation of the experimental system has shown that the approach presented in this paper has attractive properties that should be considered in future system designs, addressing a need for new system architectures and design philosophies that result in reduced complexity, higher fault tolerance, shorter development times, and lower development costs.
Gas-phase thermal-grating contributions to four-wave mixing

The nature of optical scattering from laser-induced thermal gratings created in the gas phase is investigated. Thermal gratings are produced with the illumination geometry used to perform degenerate four-wave mixing (DFWM) measurements. Such scattering from thermal gratings can act as a phase-matched interference signal. A solution to the linearized hydrodynamic equations is developed to model the dynamics of the thermal grating. Predictions of this model that uses realistic gas properties are shown to compare favorably with laboratory measurements. The model includes the effects of finite-rate energy deposition, damping by viscosity and thermal conduction, mass diffusion of the excited-state grating, and electrostrictive compression.
EXTENDED THEORY OF EARLY-LATE CODE TRACKING FOR A BANDLIMITED GPS RECEIVER

Code-tracking accuracy, an important attribute of GPS receivers, depends both on characteristics of the signal being tracked and on the design of the receiver. A simple expression has been available to predict code-tracking accuracy for early-late processing of signals with sinc-squared spectra in white noise for an infinite front-end bandwidth receiver. However, the literature has not indicated when this approximation holds. This paper provides a more exact analysis of code-tracking accuracy for early-late discriminators processing conven-tional binary phase shift keyed signals in white noise. New analytical expressions apply for various front-end bandwidths, discriminator spacings, and code-tracking loop bandwidths, while using linear models based on a small-error assumption. A theoretical lower bound is also supplied, indicating inherent limits on accuracy for given conditions. While evaluation of the exact expressions requires numerical integrations, new algebraic approximations are also provided. Numerical results compare the various expressions and approximations.
Computer detection and classification of three citrus infestations

Abstract Color information digitized from aerial color infrared transparencies is used by a computer software system to detect the presence of citrus mealybug (Pseudococcus citri Risso), brown soft scale (Coccus hesperidum L.), and Rio Grande gummosis in individual citrus trees. The color coordinates at each spatial point and color differences at adjacent points are used to locate the trees and to detect the infestations, while compensation is made for the variation in color characteristics between different transparencies. With each transparency the system requires four items of information: an indication of the presence of heavy shadows in the image, nominal size and spacing of the citrus trees, and an indication of the season of the year when the transparency was taken. An index of recognition, Iq, is defined and used as a measure of recognition effectiveness. Applying the system to a set of test transparencies yields an Iq ranging from 43 to 81%, with nominal values of 60 to 80% for all three infestations.
Pyridoxal 5′-Phosphate and the Regulation of Ornithine Decarboxylase Activity and Stability

There are two forms of ornithine decarboxylase with respect to pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (pyridoxal-P) affinity in exponentially-growing Swiss 3T3 mouse fibroblasts: form I (Km∼ 10 μM) accounts for 30% of the total activity, and form II (Km∼ 0.4 μM) the remainder. Each form of the enzyme is in rapid equilibrium with ornithine and pyridoxal-P; neither form recognizes the Schiff base between ornithine and pyridoxal-P as a substrtate. Total pyridoxal-P concentrations indicate that both forms may normally be at least partially active in vivo. Upon stimulation of 3T3 cells by pituitary growth factors, form I becomes undetectable within 4 h. As total activity increases over 10-fold during this time and continues to increase thereafter, a possible conversion of form I to form II could account for this increase only if the Km change reflects other changes in preexisting enzyme. The rates of cofactor dissociation are apparently the same for each form and neither rate changes with the growth state. Since rapid equilibrium kinetics apply, the forms apparently differ in their rate of cofactor association. The half-lives of the two forms in vivo are the same in unstimulated cells when measured concurrently. Also, the half-life of total activity decreases markedly upon stimulation as form II becomes dominant. These and other observations are not consistent with pyridoxal-P serving a major protective function for the enzyme in vivo.
Osteoporosis: Current approaches and future prospects in diagnosis, pathogenesis, and management

This review summarizes some of the major advances in our understanding and management of osteoporosis. Bone densitometry is the key to diagnosis but has limitations. Ultrasound and peripheral densitometry may provide new, rapid screening tools. Biochemical markers may provide an assessment of fracture risk as well as the response to therapy. Studies of the genetics of ostoporosis may also provide new approaches to diagnosis. The interactions between local and systemic factors, particularly between estrogen, cytokines, and prostaglandins, have suggested a mechanism for bone loss in rodent models. Nutritional deficits of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin K may play a role in pathogenesis. Therapy is largely based on fracture prevention with calcium, vitamin D, and exercise programs, coupled with antiresorptive therapy. New approaches involving anabolic agents are under development. Our goal must be to increase our understanding of pathogenesis and to develop new cost-effective therapeutic agents as rapidly as possible so as to prevent an epidemic of osteoporotic fractures throughout the world in the next millennium.
NO and NO2 formation in a turbulent hydrocarbon/air diffusion flame

Experimental results are presented for turbulent diffusion flames of a round jet of propane in a coflowing midly swirled, S=0.3, stream of air. The jet diameter was 8.7 mm and the total flow was confined in a 58 mm diameter combustion tunnel. Buoyancy effects were found to be negligible. Measurements were made at air stream to fuel stream velocity ratios of 45, 61, and 75 to 1 for initial reactant temperatures of 300°, 440°, and 550°K. Measurements include the spatial distribution of nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, and temperature as well as the major stable species: propane, nitrogen, oxygen, water vapor, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide. Substantial concentrations of nitrogen dioxide were measured and nitrogen dioxide appears to peak slightly on the fuel rich side of the nitric oxide maxima. No completely satisfactory explanation for the existence and peaking behavior of the nitrogen dioxide was found. Nitrogen dioxide formation mechanisms are examined and discussed. It appears that the formation of nitrogen dioxide occurs through the rapid oxidation of nitric oxide by radicals found in superequilibrium concentrations.
The Modulation of Cellular Susceptibility to Oxidative Stress: Protective and Destructive Actions of Cu,Zn-Superoxide Dismutase

Alterations in the activity of Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1), an enzyme that converts superoxide (O·−2) to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) plus O2, have been found to affect cellular susceptibility to oxidative stress and have been invoked as a pathogenetic mechanism in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases. In apparent contradiction, some investigators have found overexpression of SOD1 to be protective whereas others have reported it to be destructive. Furthermore, there has been an ongoing controversy as to whether or not increases in SOD1 activity can in fact lead to an increase in cellular H2O2 levels, one of the mechanisms proposed to explain how SOD1 overexpression may lead to cellular toxicity. Using cells from transgenic mice that express different levels of SOD1, we found that the level of cellular H2O2, determined by fluorescence activated cell sorting in the presence of an H2O2-sensitive fluorescent dye, increased in parallel with the level of SOD1 activity. Furthermore, we found that this effect was inhibited by overexpression of catalase in these cells, confirming that the increase in fluorescence was indeed due to increases in steady-state H2O2 levels. Increased SOD1 activity was also associated with decreases in cellular O·−2 levels concomitant with the increase in H2O2. Based upon these results, we present a model of cellular susceptibility to oxidative stress as a function of SOD1 activity that suggests a biphasic response. Very low levels of activity can render cells susceptible to oxidative stress because of insufficient metabolism of O·−2. Increasing SOD1 activity from this point is thus expected to be protective. However, as the SOD1 activity increased further, this protective action is lost and actually can lead to cellular injury by overproduction of H2O2, a process that is discussed in terms of recent findings of superoxide reductase activities of this enzyme. This biphasic model may explain how the effects of increases in SOD1 activity depend on the redox state of the cell, and may resolve the apparently paradoxical reports in the literature.
An optimum method for the introduction or removal of permeable cryoprotectants: Isolated cells

Abstract On the basis of a nonequilibrium model for the transport of water and permeable solute across cell membranes, an optimum method has been devised for the introduction and the removal of a permeable cryoprotectant from single, isolated cells so that potentially lethal drastic alterations in cellular volume are minimized. The method involves the simultaneous variation of both the permeable (an initial step change, followed by a linear variation with time which overshoots the terminal value, and a final step change to the terminal value) and impermeable (an initial step change in the opposite direction of the permeable solute concentration change, followed by a period where the concentration remains constant, and a final step change back to the initial value) extracellular solute concentrations in a prescribed manner such that both the cellular water content and the intracellular electrolyte concentration remain constant as the intracellular permeable solute (CPA) concentration is either raised or lowered. The results of our theoretical analysis indicate that the osmotic stresses and strains usually imposed upon cells during the introduction and the removal of permeable cryoprotectants can be minimized and that the resulting protocols are clinically the most efficient.
Exact results for itinerant ferromagnetism in multiorbital systems on square and cubic lattices

We study itinerant ferromagnetism in multiorbital Hubbard models in certain two-dimensional square and three-dimensional cubic lattices. In the strong coupling limit where doubly occupied orbitals are not allowed, we prove that the fully spin-polarized states are the unique ground states, apart from the trivial spin degeneracies, for a large region of filling factors. Possible applications to $p$-orbital bands with ultracold fermions in optical lattices, and electronic $3d$-orbital bands in transition-metal oxides, are discussed.
Nonlinear programming based detectors for multiuser systems

Maximum likelihood (ML) detection problems for several multiuser systems result in nonlinear optimization problems with unacceptably high complexity. One way of achieving near-optimum performance without the complexity associated with the ML detector is using nonlinear programming relaxations to approximate the solution of the ML detection problem at hand. Using this approach, new detectors are formulated and it is observed that some popular suboptimum receivers correspond to relaxations of the ML detectors. We concentrate on two types of systems to demonstrate this concept and evaluate the performance of the resulting detectors.
Identification and characterization of a novel outer membrane protein receptor required for hemin utilization in Vibrio vulnificus

Vibrio vulnificus, the cause of septicemia and serious wound infection in humans and fishes, require iron for its pathogenesis. Hemin uptake through the outer membrane receptor, HupA, is one of its many mechanisms by which it acquires iron. We report here the identification of an additional TonB-dependent hemin receptor HvtA, that is needed in conjunction with the HupA protein for optimal hemin utilization. The HvtA protein is significantly homologous to other outer membrane hemin receptors and its expression in trans restored the uptake of hemin and hemoglobin, the latter to a weaker extent, in a mutant strain that was defective in both receptors. Quantitative RT-PCR suggested that transcription of the hvtA gene was iron regulated. The operon containing the hvtA gene is homologous to the operon in V. cholerae containing the hemin receptor gene hutR suggesting a vertical transmission of the hvtA cluster from V. cholerae to V. vulnificus.
Subordination-preserving integral operators

Let β and l be complex numbers and let H be the space of functions regular in the unit disc. Subordination of functions f,g, e H is denoted by f<g. Let K⊆H and let the operator A: K→H be defined by F=A(f), where $$F(z) = {\left( {\frac{1}{{{z^\delta }}}\int_0^z {{f^\beta }(t) {t^{\delta - 1}} dt} } \right)^{{\raise0.5ex\hbox{$\scriptstyle 1$} \kern-0.1em/\kern-0.15em \lower0.25ex\hbox{$\scriptstyle \beta $}}}}.$$ The authors determine conditions under which $$f < g \Rightarrow A(f) < A(g)$$ and they present some applications of this result.
Comments on the interpretation of instantaneous frequency

Instantaneous frequency, taken as the derivative of the phase of the signal, is interpreted in the time-frequency literature as the average frequency of the signal at each time. We point out some difficulties with this interpretation, and show that for a generic two-component AM-FM signal, the interpretation holds only when the components are of equal strength. We conclude that instantaneous frequency and the average frequency at each time are generally two different quantities. One possible interpretation of the difference between these two quantities is suggested.
Why Do People Let Their Long-term Care Insurance Lapse? Evidence from the Health and Retirement Study

This paper empirically analyzes how often and why individuals drop their long-term care insurance (LTCI) coverage, using data from the 2002-2008 Health and Retirement Study. It finds that over a two-year period 13% of LTCI policies lapse. It also finds that the probability of an LTCI lapse increases with a lack of consumer knowledge about their policy's benefit provisions, with prior encounters with the long-term care system, with less expensive policies, and with less generous policies. These findings raise the possibility that some policyholders may not understand their coverage limitations, and learn about them only after actually using long-term care services. Greater consumer awareness of LTCI policy features and limitations may help reduce lapse rates and increase the stability of the LTCI market. Copyright 2012, Oxford University Press.
Decentralized and dynamic bandwidth allocation in networked control systems

In this paper, we propose a bandwidth allocation scheme for networked control systems that have their control loops closed over a geographically distributed network. We first formulate the bandwidth allocation as a convex optimization problem. We then present an allocation scheme that solves this optimization problem in a fully distributed manner. In addition to being fully distributed, the proposed scheme is asynchronous, scalable, dynamic and flexible. We further discuss mechanisms to enhance the performance of the allocation scheme. We present analytical and simulation results.
Outcomes of stepping down asthma medications in a guideline-based pediatric asthma management program

Abstract Background Little is known about outcomes after stepping down asthma medications within an asthma management program. Objective To determine outcomes of stepping down asthma medications in a pediatric asthma management program. Methods We performed a retrospective study of 5- to 18-year-old children with asthma in an integrated primary care practice in the United States. Data were included on participants from March 1, 2009, until December 31, 2011. We first determined whether a child was eligible for step down and next recorded whether a step-down attempt was made and if the attempt was successful. In addition to descriptive statistics for the sample demographics and the outcomes of stepping down, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine predictors of successful asthma medication step-down attempts. Results Of the 477 children sampled for this study, 264 (55.3%) had a guideline-eligible opportunity to step down asthma medications. An attempted step down occurred in only 89 (33.7%) of children who had guideline-eligible opportunities. A total of 166 children (34.8%) attempted a step down of asthma medication at least once (including those guideline ineligible to step down). Of children with follow-up, 96 (71.6%) of step-down attempts were successful. Time of year (any season except fall) when the step down was attempted predicted successful step down in univariate and multivariate analysis (odds ratio = 3.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.23-11.85; P = .02). Being guideline eligible for step down predicted successful step down in univariate analysis only (odds ratio = 2.51; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-5.43; P = .02). Conclusion Our findings from this sample of children participating in an asthma management program suggest that stepping down asthma medication based on National Asthma Education and Prevention Program 3 guidelines is frequently successful.
Rotational analysis of the Ã2Π-X̃2Σ+ transition of calcium monoacetylide, CaCCH

Abstract The 0-0 band of the A 2 Π - X 2 Σ + transition of the CaCCH molecule was rotationally analyzed by dye laser excitation spectroscopy with narrow band fluorescence detection. The rotational constants extracted from the line positions enabled us to estimate the Ca-C bondlength to be 2.25 A in the ground electronic state. This work represents the first high-resolution analysis of a metal acetylide molecule.
Enterprise knowledge security architecture for military experimentation

A current initiative in fleet experimentation addresses systems integration of enterprise knowledge resources. The combined resources must synthesize, structure and archive quantitative and qualitative results and present findings in a manner appropriate for different levels of users. Security classifications and need-to-know criteria determine the types of information presented to a given user or user group. This paper advances a methodology currently in development to structure information around ontology with security assigned to specific vocabulary. The objective is to enable a more ready exchange of secured information within distributed environments. The referenced knowledge system currently supports a wide range of naval, joint forces, and coalition enterprise applications and information resources.
Performance of trellis coded modulation with 8PSK through TDRSS

The need to increase data-rate capabilities of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) has prompted NASA to investigate bandwidth-efficient modulation schemes. Based upon current technology the most promising scheme is Trellis-Coded Modulation (TCM) operating with Octal Phase Shift Keying (8 PSK). In conjunction with NASA, New Mexico State University's Manuel Lujan Jr. Center for Space Telemetering and Telecommunications Systems has constructed a system to test this new candidate TDRSS modulation scheme, TCM 8 PSK. This system was tested through the TDRSS channel to demonstrate that this coding scheme operates as well over the actual channel as it has in lab experiments and simulations. Two interchangeable codecs, implementing separate TCM techniques, were tested. The results of this experiment and subsequent data analysis are presented in this paper. >
Comparison of Efficiency Measures for Academic Interventions Based on Acquisition and Maintenance.

Previous research has demonstrated the importance of examining the instructional efficiency of academic interventions and has defined efficiency as the number of items learned per instructional minute. Maintenance of the skill is also an important instructional goal, however. Therefore, the current study compared efficiency metrics using initial learning and maintenance with 25 fourth-grade students. Each student was taught the pronunciation and English translation of 12 words from the Esperanto international language with two instructional conditions (six words for each condition). The first condition was traditional drill (TD) rehearsal with all unknown words, and the second was incremental rehearsal (IR) with one unknown and eight known words. Results indicated that, although the IR condition led to significantly more words being retained, TD was significantly more efficient using initial learning. The two conditions were equally efficient, however, when maintenance data were used. Therefore, evaluating the efficiency of instructional interventions should consider maintenance data as well. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A New Genetic Vaccine Platform Based on an Adeno-Associated Virus Isolated from a Rhesus Macaque

We created a hybrid adeno-associated virus (AAV) from two related rhesus macaque isolates, called AAVrh32.33, and evaluated it as a vaccine carrier for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and type A influenza virus antigens. The goal was to overcome the limitations of vaccines based on other AAVs, which generate dysfunctional T-cell responses and are inhibited by antibodies found in human sera. Injection of a Gag-expressing AAVrh32.33 vector into mice resulted in a high-quality CD8(+) T-cell response. The resulting Gag-specific T cells express multiple cytokines at high levels, including interleukin-2, with many having memory phenotypes; a subsequent boost with an adenovirus vector yielded a brisk expansion of Gag-specific T cells. A priming dose of AAVrh32.33 led to high levels of Gag antibodies, which exceed levels found after injection of adenovirus vectors. Importantly, passive transfer of pooled human immunoglobulin into mice does not interfere with the efficacy of AAVrh32.33 expressing nucleoproteins from influenza virus, as measured by protection to a lethal dose of influenza virus, which is consistent with the very low seroprevalence to this virus in humans. Studies of macaques with vectors expressing gp140 from HIV-1 (i.e., with AAVrh32.33 as the prime and simian adenovirus type 24 as the boost) demonstrated results similar to those for mice with high-level and high-quality CD8(+) T-cell responses to gp140 and high-titered neutralizing antibodies to homologous HIV-1. The biology of this novel AAV hybrid suggests that it should be a preferred genetic vaccine carrier, capable of generating robust T- and B-cell responses.
Resilient behavior through controller self-diagnosis, adaptation and recovery

We explore robot behavior recovery through a process akin to self-reflection. A robot contains two controllers: A primary "innate" reactive controller, and a secondary "reflective" controller that can observe, model and control the primary controller. The reflective controller adapts the innate controller without access to the innate controller's internal state or architecture. Instead, the reflective controller models the innate controller and then synthesizes input/output filters that adapt the innate controller's existing capabilities to new situations. The innate controller is subjected to a variety of sensory, motor, and internal control damage scenarios. The reflective controller diagnoses the level of failure using a self-model and the observed sensorimotor time-series data and is able to recover performance.
Personalized third-trimester fetal growth evaluation: comparisons of individualized growth assessment, percentile line and conditional probability methods.

AbstractObjective: To compare third-trimester size trajectory prediction errors (average transformed percent deviations) for three individualized fetal growth assessment methods.Methods: This study utilized longitudinal measurements of nine directly measured size parameters in 118 fetuses with normal neonatal growth outcomes. Expected value (EV) function coefficients and variance components were obtained using two-level random coefficient modeling. Growth models (IGA) or EV coefficients and variance components (PLM and CPM) were used to calculate predicted values at ∼400 third-trimester time points. Percent deviations (%Dev) calculated at these time points using all three methods were expressed as percentages of IGA MA-specific reference ranges [transformed percent deviations (T%Dev)]. Third-trimester T%Dev values were averaged (aT%Dev) for each parameter. Mean ± standard deviation’s for sets of aT%Dev values derived from each method (IGA, PLM and CPM) were calculated and compared.Results: Mean aT%Dev val...
Role of freezing and fear in avoidance decrements following mammillothalamic tractotomy in cat: I. Two-way avoidance behavior

In experiment 1, six cats were trained in a two-way conditioned avoidance response (CAR) and then received lesions aimed at the mammillothalamic tracts (MTT). Avoidance decrements following MTT lesions were not related to changes in freezing behavior. In experiment 2, four cats were trained in the CAR and then given intensive fear conditioning (pairing of buzzer and unavoidable foot shock). On subsequent CAR test sessions, avoidance latencies for trials on which the buzzer was added were significantly (p <.01) shorter than on trials without the buzzer. Thus, a stimulus (the buzzer) capable of eliciting fear and freezing much stronger than that seen following MTT lesions actually facilitated the CAR (reduced avoidance latencies). This and the results of experiment 1 do not support the hypothesis that avoidance decrements following MTT lesions are attributable to increased fear or freezing.
The After-Tax Returns from Different Savings Vehicles

When saving for retirement, investors' most important decision will probably be the choice of savings vehicles, that is, whether the funds are subject to the tax structure facing personal accounts, deferred annuities, or pensions. The pension tax structure has an overwhelming long-run advantage over the other two forms. A bond or stock fund held in a pension can expect to earn at least 2.5 percentage points a year more after taxes than the same fund held in a personal account. For the 1984–93 period, no bond fund could beat a bond index fund by 2.5 percentage points a year, and few stock funds could beat a stock index fund by 2.5 points a year. Thus, the choice of savings vehicles is more important to the long-run investor than the choice of bond and stock funds.
Characterization of a 10B-doped liquid scintillator as a capture-gated neutron spectrometer

Abstract We use a 250 MHz digitizer to characterize the pulse shape discrimination of a BC-523A 10B-doped liquid scintillator with capture-gating capabilities. Our results are compared to recent work claiming pulse shape discrimination between fast and thermal neutron signals. The capture event is identified, and we explain the origin of signals that are often misinterpreted. We use the time-of-flight method to measure the detector energy resolution for fast incident monoenergetic neutrons and the intrinsic neutron detection efficiency. Monte Carlo simulations are performed and we find agreement between measured and simulated results. These steps are important for understanding 10B-doped capture-gated spectroscopy in mixed radiation environments, as efficiencies using capture-gating are rarely reported in the literature.
"The lion, the witch and the wardrobe": impact on sibs of individuals with AAT deficiency.

Alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency is a genetic disorder that may cause serious pulmonary or liver impairment in children or adults. Although genetic sequencing of the AAT gene has only been available for 20 years, analysis of the amount and electrophoretic mobility of the AAT protein has allowed clinical phenotyping for more than 40 years. There have been no studies assessing the psychological impact of having a sib affected by AAT deficiency. Twenty-five participants drawn from the Alpha-1 Research Registry completed a questionnaire and semi-structured interview. Respondents were supportive of testing prior to adulthood for AAT status; 18 thought it was a good idea to test a child, three did not know, and four said children should not be tested, primarily citing insurance concerns. Of those 18 who stated it was a good idea, 14 would test at birth. Knowledge of genetics of AAT deficiency was limited; only 44% of respondents understood the inheritance pattern. We recommend: (1) parents and sibs need help in mourning the loss of children with AAT deficiency; young sibs are at risk for trauma and long-term developmental problems. (2) Teams evaluating donors for liver transplantation should be aggressive in ruling out AAT deficiency prior to invasive testing. (3) Testing should be offered to individuals with a family history of AAT deficiency to obtain the health benefits of lifestyle modification and limit the burden of disease discovery in symptomatic relatives. (4) Awareness of liver disease from AAT deficiency should be increased. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Fault diagnostics in smart micro-grids: A survey

Abstract Due to rising awareness on environmental protection and for maintenance of clean habitable communities, current and next generation micro-grids are desired to have significant penetration of renewable and clean energy sources. However, a critical issue is the growth of faults in various components of micro-grids, which comprise the underlying energy generation and distribution infrastructure. Moreover, faults can manifest through different failure modes in the same component. If timely diagnostics and maintenance actions are not undertaken, then these faults can cause instabilities, inefficient power generation, and other losses. Therefore, it is important not only to understand the various failure modes, and their root causes and effects, but also to develop real-time automated diagnostics tools that can capture the early signatures of fault evolution for mitigating actions. In this respect, this paper presents a review of different failure modes occurring in various micro-grid components including both clean and conventional energy generation systems. Subsequently, the paper also provides a review on the state-of-the-art of various fault diagnosis approaches available in technical literature. Since multiple approaches can be implemented utilizing the model-based or data-driven methods given the system monitoring and communication infrastructures, the paper has presented the material in a systematic manner for easy understanding. The information presented in this paper will benefit not only the diagnostic engineers but also the control engineers who aim to develop control methodologies for fault-tolerance, mitigation, and equipment life extension based on the tools of early diagnostics.
Discrimination learning and extinction in the black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis)

A series of three studies support the possibility of working with large nonlaboratory animals in a zoo setting. Position responses were quite strong and performance curves tended to produce straight lines.
Alternating current scanning electrochemical microscopy with simultaneous fast-scan cyclic voltammetry.

Fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) is combined with alternating current scanning electrochemical microscopy (AC-SECM) for simultaneous measurements of impedance and faradaic current. Scan rates of 10–1000 V s–1 were used for voltammetry, while a high-frequency (100 kHz), low-amplitude (10 mV rms) sine wave was added to the voltammetric waveform for the ac measurement. Both a lock-in amplifier and an analog circuit were used to measure the amplitude of the resultant ac signal. The effect of the added sine wave on the voltammetry at a carbon fiber electrode was investigated and found to have negligible effect. The combined FSCV and ac measurements were used to provide simultaneous chemical and topographical information about a substrate using a single carbon fiber probe. The technique is demonstrated in living cell culture, where cellular respiration and topography were simultaneously imaged without the addition of a redox mediator. This approach promises to be useful for the topographical and multidimensi...
Communicating Health at Work: Organizational Wellness Programs as Identity Bridges

With the growth in workplace health promotion (WHP) initiatives, organizations are asking employees to enact their personal health identities at work. To understand this prominent yet poorly understood phenomenon, we surveyed 204 employees at a company with a WHP program and found that participation in the wellness program mediated personal health and organizational identities. Results fill a gap in communication literature by demonstrating the effect of individual identity enactment on organizational identification and contribute to recent research stressing the relationship between identity and health behaviors. In addition, findings illuminate the role of situated activity in identity negotiation, suggesting that certain activities in organizations, like wellness programs, serve as identity bridges between personal and work-related identity targets.
The influence of sacred beliefs in environmental risk perception and attitudes

Elements of the natural world, such as mountains, rivers, and forests, are often seen as sacred in many cultural traditions. Recent conservation movements have even begun to draw on spiritual and religious beliefs to promote issues of environmental sustainability. The straightforward assumption in these cases is that sacred beliefs (compared with secular ones) will hold greater sway in alerting people to various environmental perils. However, environmental risk perception is a complex process, and we find that, in some cases, viewing natural resources as sacred may lead to a diminished perception of environmental risks such as pollution. Across three studies, we show that sacred beliefs may inure participants to the harmful effects of pollution in the Ganges River. Implications of these sacred value–based risk perceptions for conservation movements are discussed.
Atrial Natriuretic Peptide in Patients with Obstructive Uropathy

AbstractRenal response to release of bilateral ureteral obstruction resembles that to intravenous administration of atrial natriuretic peptide. In a prospective study we measured plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels before and serially after relief of obstruction in 9 patients (mean age 65 ± 2 years old) with bilateral ureteral obstruction and azotemia. Obstruction was documented by renal ultrasonography. Before relief of obstruction blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels were 85 ± 18 (mean ± standard error) and 8.2 ± 1.3mg. per dl., respectively, accompanied by metabolic acidosis but not hyperkalemia. Mean plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (measured by radioimmunoassay) was 129 ± 28, which was markedly elevated compared to 46 ± 7pg. per ml. in 7 age-matched control subjects (p less than 0.01). After relief of obstruction, prominent post-obstructive diuresis and natriuresis ensued; the plasma atrial natriuretic peptide level progressively decreased to that noted in the control group, accompan...
Affordable supercomputing using open source software

Big data and machine learning require powerful centralized computing systems. Small research groups cannot afford to support large, expensive computing infrastructure. Cloud computing options, such as renting cycles from Amazon AWS, can often end up costing more than hosting hardware locally, and pose challenges when attempting to move big data resources across the network (or staging them remotely on the server). Open source projects are enabling the development of low cost scalable clusters and are significantly lowering the barrier for administrating and maintaining these clusters. In this poster, we explore the tradeoffs a small research group faces in constructing a cost-effective cluster. We present an affordable approach to cluster computing that uses commodity processors and open source software. Though the overall system is not novel, we believe the lessons learned in this project can be a valuable guide for small research groups interested in building such clusters.
Tumor sidedness, adjuvant chemotherapy (AC), and other factors affecting survival in patients with stage II colon cancer (CC-II).

768Background: The role of AC in CC-II is not well defined due to lack of conclusive randomized trial data. This updated analysis using National Cancer Database (NCDB) addresses the overall survival (OS) benefit from AC in CC-II using more refined and case appropriate population cohort. Methods: NCDB was queried for patients diagnosed with CC-II from 2004-2008 with survival information through 2013. Only those patients with pathologically confirmed CC diagnosis were included. Patients undergoing any surgical procedure less than a partial colectomy were excluded. Pearson Chi-square test, Kaplan Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazards model were used for statistical analysis. Results: A cohort of 36,630 patients was identified for analysis. Elderly patients received less frequent AC (p < 0.0001) and AC was associated with an improved 5-year OS with no difference noted in outcomes from single or multi-agent regimens. AC was an independent predictor of OS regardless of age, gender, race, comorbidit...