cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Masked FFT registration

Registration is a ubiquitous task for image analysis applications. Generally, the requirements of registration algorithms include fast computation and large capture range. For these purposes, registration in the Fourier domain using normalized cross correlation is well suited and has been extensively studied in the literature. Another common requirement is masking, which is necessary for applications where certain regions of the image that would adversely affect the registration result should be ignored. To address these requirements, we have derived a mathematical model that describes an exact form for embedding the masking step fully into the Fourier domain. We also provide an extension of this masked registration approach from simple translation to also include rotation and scale. We demonstrate the computational efficiency of our algorithm and validate its correctness on several synthetic images and real ultrasound images. Our framework enables fast, global, parameter-free registration of images with masked regions.
Docosahexaenoic acid confers enduring neuroprotection in experimental stroke

Recently we demonstrated that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is highly neuroprotective when animals were allowed to survive during one week. This study was conducted to establish whether the neuroprotection induced by DHA persists with chronic survival. Sprague-Dawley rats underwent 2h of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) and treated with DHA or saline at 3h after MCAo. Animals received neurobehavioral examination (composite neuroscore, rota-rod, beam walking and Y maze tests) followed by ex vivo magnetic resonance imaging and histopathology at 3 weeks. DHA improved composite neurologic score beginning on day 1 by 20%, which persisted throughout weeks 1-3 by 24-41% compared to the saline-treated group. DHA prolonged the latency in rota-rod on weeks 2-3 by 162-178%, enhanced balance performance in the beam walking test on weeks 1 and 2 by 42-51%, and decreased the number of entries in the Y maze test by 51% and spontaneous alteration by 53% on week 2 compared to the saline-treated group. DHA treatment reduced tissue loss (computed from T2-weighted images) by 24% and total and cortical infarct volumes by 46% and 54% compared to the saline-treated group. These results show that DHA confers enduring ischemic neuroprotection.
Collective surface plasmon resonance coupling in silver nanoshell arrays

Collective surface plasmon resonance (SPR) excitations in an ordered array of silver nanoshells have been theoretically studied using generalized Mie theory. Near- and far-field radiative coupling between the nanoshells in the array result in a non-monotonic shift of the collective SPR band. When the distance between the shells in the array approaches that of the collective SPR wavelength, we observe narrowing of the collective SPR band due to constructive interference between the scattered electric field from the particles in the array. Further increase of the distance between the nanoshells in the array leads to destructive interference and broadening of the collective SPR band.
The Socioecology of Hunter-gatherer Territory Size

Abstract This paper contributes to understanding the socioecology of hunter–gatherer territorial dynamics. We develop and evaluate three hypotheses for the effects of corporate territorial ownership and the storage of food on the territory size of hunter–gatherer societies. We seek to initiate a more nuanced understanding of how social and technological organization cause and constrain the size of hunter–gatherer territories, in addition to the factors of population size and the productivity of ecosystems documented among primates and mammals in general. Our analysis suggests that the storage of food fundamentally alters population–territory size dynamics in hunter–gatherer societies. When societies store food, territory size is a sub-linear function of population. When societies do not store food, the function is approximately linear. The sub-linear scaling of population and territory size indicates that when societies store food, the social units that comprise ethno-linguistic groups produce more food per unit of area and share ever more over-lapping subsistence ranges in response to population growth. This non-linear population–territory size relationship signals that coevolutionary processes initiated by different ways of constructing a niche generate diversity in hunter–gatherer societies. We speculate that the storage of food, initiated to cope with the short-term risk of a short-fall of food, has long-term consequences on the trajectory of hunter–gatherer evolution in general.
Terahertz spectroscopy used to distinguish breast epithelial cell lines

THz spectroscopy has the potential to be used in identifying and characterizing cell types. In this study, normal 184A1 and metastatic MDA-MB-231 breast epithelial cell lines were characterized using transmission mode of THz Time-Domain Spectroscopy as they transitioned from their active to inactive state. A frequency domain scan was performed at set time intervals on both cell lines and the result showed that there is a time domain variation between the scans of the two cell lines that can be used to identify each cell type.
ASSAY OF CITRATE PRODUCTION IN BONE SLICES.

Abstract A method for the assay of citrate production in bone slices is described which is based on the incorporation of 2-C14-acetate into citrate, and the recovery of this activity as pentabromoacetone-1,3-C14 in the normal chemical assay for citric acid. In addition to an indication of citrate production, a measure of the activity in the total organic acids can be obtained by this method.
The design and control of a robot finger for tactile sensing

This article describes the design and control of a lightweight robot finger intended for tactile sensing research. The finger is a three-link planar chain with the joints actuated through cables by two motors. Kinematic coupling of the three joints provides two degrees of freedom for finger tip manipulation, and a curling action of the finger for enclosing an object. Hall effect sensors in each joint provide position feedback, and strain gage sensors on each cable provide tension information. To minimize weight and power consumption, a high speed low torque motor together with a 172:1 speed reducer is used as the actuator. A force control loop around the motor speed reducer system reduces the effect of the friction inherent in the speed reducer. Flat mounting plates are provided on each link for special purpose grasping surfaces and sensors.
Female preferences for dorsal fin and body size in Xiphophorus helleri: further investigation of the LPA bias in Poeciliid fishes

Female preference for male fin elaborations in the family Poeciliidae may be driven by a perceptual preference for increased lateral projection area (LPA). Our research with sailfin and shortfin mollies suggests that increased LPA is more stimulating to females whether manifest as larger dorsal fin or body size. Like mollies, male Xiphophorus helleri possess a fin elaboration (sword) that even females of related but unsworded species find attractive. We hypothesize that the sword preference, like the sailfin preference in Poecilia , is the result of a bias for greater LPA. We addressed this hypothesis by testing female preferences for male body and dorsal fin size in X. helleri. Females preferred males of greater LPA when the fin:body size ratio was held constant. However, females showed no preference for enlarged dorsal fins when body size was held constant, instead favoring the dummy whose fin:body size ratio matched that of a typical male in the population. Therefore, although females preferred males with greater LPA, the LPA preference in X. helleri appears less permissive than that which favored the evolution of enlarged dorsal fins in mollies; constrained in X. helleri by an additional preference for a species-specific fin:body size ratio.
Water-only pores and peritoneal dialysis

The article by Ni et al. solidifies the important role of aquaporin-1 in the process of fluid removal from anephric patients treated with peritoneal dialysis. The presence of the water-only channel in the subperitoneal endothelia provides the mechanism for solute-free ultrafiltrate observed early in dialysis and accounts for approximately half of all the filtration observed in dialysis.
Nonequilibrium in an arc constrictor

Nonequilibrium flow adjacent to cooling tube wall confining cascade arc plasma electrical discharge
Effects of age on myosin and creatine kinase isoforms in left ventricles of Fischer 344 rats.

Abstract Left ventricles of hearts from male Fischer 344 rats of 2, 8 and 23 months of age were analyzed to determine if aging results in significant alterations in the isoform distribution of myosin and creatine kinase protein and mRNAs. Left ventricles of maturing (2-month) rats contained almost exclusively α-myosin heavy chain (MHC) mRNA and protein. In adults (8 months) there was a 5-fold increase in β-MHC (fetal isoform) and an approximate 10% decrease in α-MHC mRNA levels, relative to 2 months. By 23 months (senescence), β-MHC mRNA levels had increased by 11-fold and α-MHC mRNA levels had decreased by about 30%. These changes corresponded to an increase in the relative proportion of β-MHC protein, from undetectable levels at 2 months, to about 40% by 8 months and to about 60% by 23 months. Increased levels of β-MHC and its mRNA in older rats correlated with decreased serum thyroid hormone levels. The specific activity of creatine kinase in crude homogenates decreased with age, as has been reported previously. Relative to 2-month controls, the specific activity of creatine kinase had decreased by 21% at 8 months and by 37% at 23 months. Analysis of creatine kinase activity showed no large increase in levels of the fetal (B) isoform with age, as was found for myosin. Levels of mRNAs encoding the B and M isoforms of creatine kinase were significantly reduced in senescent rats. Thus, the decreased levels of creatine kinase in aging rats is correlated with decreased levels of mRNA encoding the BCK and MCK isoforms but not an isoform shift.
The structure of DNA dictates purine atom site selectivity in alkylation by primary diazonium ions.

The 1-propanediazonium ion, generated from N‘-nitro-N-nitroso-N-propylguanidine in aqueous solutions, was reacted with the purine nucleosides dGuo and dAdo or single-stranded or double-stranded DNA. After nucleobase liberation by acid hydrolysis, the percent yields of products were determined by LC/MS using either isotopically distinct internal standards in the case of the nucleoside reactions or an internal standard and the ratios of response factors of all other products that were separately determined in the case of the reactions with DNA. In the reactions of nucleosides, products of both n-propylation and iso-propylation at all of the heroatoms were observed. For these reactions, the yields of the three most abundant n-propyl adducts of Gua are in the order O6 > N7 > N2, in the ratio of 9.0/6.4/1, while for Ade, the order of the yields of N-propyl products is N1 > N7 > N3 > N6 in the ratio 2.5/1.8/1.1/1. The ratios of n-propylated to iso-propylated products at each site, Pn/Pi, generally a measure of ...
In vitro comparison of feline bone marrow-derived and adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells:

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are increasingly being proposed as a therapeutic option for a variety of different diseases in human and veterinary medicine. At present, MSC are most often collected from bone marrow (BM) or adipose tissue (AT) and enriched and expanded in vitro before being transferred into recipients. However, little is known regarding the culture characteristics of feline BM-derived (BM-MSC) versus AT-derived MSC (AT-MSC). We compared BM-MSC and AT-MSC from healthy cats with respect to in vitro growth and cell surface phenotype. Mesenchymal stem cells isolated from AT proliferated significantly faster than BM-MSC. Phenotypic differences between BM-MSC and AT-MSC were not present in the surface markers assessed. We conclude that BM-MSC and AT-MSC are similar phenotypically but that cultures of AT-MSC are easier to generate because of their higher intrinsic proliferative rate. Thus, AT-MSC may be the preferred MSC for clinical applications where rapid and efficient generation of MSC is important.
Synthesis of Camptothecin Melantotransferrin (p97) Conjugate Through a Carbamate Bond

Abstract Through its 20‐hydroxy group and a carbamate bond, 20(S)‐camptothecin (1) is chemically linked to melanotransferrin (p97). The key step to modify the steric hindered hydroxy group of camptothecin is achieved by using triphosgene/DMAP in DMF and immediately reacting with tert‐butyl 6‐aminohexanoate (8). The novel camptothecin conjugate 4 is a potential agent for chemotherapy of brain tumor.
The epidemiologic pathology of carcinomas of the large bowel.

From the End Results Group file over 60,000 cases of histologically confirmed bowel cancers were analyzed by histologic type. Adenocarcinomas were the standard against which cancers with other diagnoses were compared. Colloid carcinomas occurred relatively frequently in blacks and in young persons, especially young men. In the left colon they had a worse prognosis than other cancers. Papillary carcinomas had a better than average prognosis while polypoid carcinomas had the best prognosis of any type of carcinoma. Adenosquamous and squamous cell carcinomas in the rectum closely resembled anal cancers; elsewhere in the bowel they behaved like aggressive adenocarcinomas. Malignant carcinoids of the appendix resembled benign carcinoids of that organ; elsewhere they were quite aggressive. Rectal carcinoids were unusually common in blacks. Grade appeared to be an independent prognostic parameter, although low grade of malignancy also implied an early stage. The differences in behavior by histology point up the importance of specificity of histologic diagnosis of cancers of the bowel. Comparisons of these observations with some other series are drawn, and the advantages and difficulties of this kind of analysis are discussed.
CELL CULTURE STUDIES ON CLASSIC AND VARIANT FORMS OF TYPE II GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE (GSD)

Studies have been carried out on acid α-1,4 glucosidase (α-glu) activity, glycogen content, and uptake of exogenous partially purified α-glu from placenta and urine by fibroblast cultures from skin of patients with infantile (classic) and adult (variant) forms of type II GSD. Using 4-methylumbelIiferyl α-D-glucoside as substrate, about 10% of normal activity was observed in cell extracts from 2 adults, whereas no activity was demonstrable in cells from infantile type II GSD. No evidence was obtained for complementation following cell fusion and formation of heterokaryons using Sendai virus, increase in glycogen content was observed in confluent cultures, but there was no consistent difference between normal and mutant cell strains. For enzyme incorporation studies, human α-glu was partially purified from urine or placenta by NH4SO4 precipitation and isoelectric focusing. Incubation of mutant cells in medium containing partially purified α-glu resulted in restoration of normal cell enzyme activity. The kinetics of increase and persistence of cellular α-glu activity following removal of exogenous enzyme suggests that cells are capable of incorporating enzyme. Cell cultures may provide a useful model for an approach to in vivo enzyme replacement therapy.
Model for predicting the acrosswind response of buildings

Abstract A model is presented for predicting the acrosswind response of isolated square cross-section buildings to typical atmospheric boundary layers, over different terrains. Closed-form expression for the auto- and cospectra of the acrosswind force fluctuations are formulated, based on wind tunnel measurements. A statistical integration scheme is used to develop a mode-generalized acrosswind spectrum for any desired approach flow condition, i.e. open country, suburban and urban. A simplified expression based on random vibration analysis is used to compute the modal response. The model provides flexibility in the selection of appropriate input parameters, broadening the scope of its application and serving as a useful tool for tailoring the preliminary design of tall buildings.
Does Dynamics Determine the Pion Pion Low-Energy Constants?

Abstract Restrictions on low-energy s-wave behavior of pion-pion scattering are studied using the N / D method and the dynamical assumption of no Castillejo-Dalitz-Dyson poles. Within the context of a model corresponding to rather well determined phenomenology, we find rather tight restrictions on the low-energy constants.
Enhancement of Si-donor incorporation by Ga adatoms in Si delta-doped GaAs grown by molecular beam epitaxy

We report on the realization of a modified delta doping technique to obtain doping profiles in MBE grown GaAs, measured by capacitance-voltage (C-V) methods with full-widths at half-maximum (FWHM)s of 25 ± 5A and peak concentrations of up to 1.1 × 1019 cm−3. In this modified delta doping technique, both the Ga and Si shutters were opened for 15 sec during the delta doped layer growth while only the Si shutter is opened during conventional delta doping. Comparison of the two techniques under the same dopant flux and shutter-open-time interval shows that higher sheet-carrier concentrations with narrower FWHMs and higher peak concentrations are obtained with the modified delta doping than with the conventional delta doping method. This suggests that Si donor incorporation is enhanced by the Ga adatoms while broadening of the Si donor distribution is still negligible for this short time interval. The effects of the substrate temperature and the shutter-open time on the Si donor distribution have also been investigated.
Stimulation of b cell differentiation by adherent mononuclear cells in systemic lupus erythematosus

We studied B cell proliferation and differentiation in response to factors released by adherent monocytes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Adherent cell supernatants (ACS) were added to peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and the effects on IgG synthesis, the number of Ig-secreting cells (ISC), and proliferation were determined. Exposure of SLE mononuclear cells to autologous ACS caused an increase (approximately two-fold) in IgG production and ISC numbers. In contrast, exposure of normal mononuclear cells to autologous ACS did not significantly increase IgG production or ISC numbers. Addition of SLE ACS to cultures of normal mononuclear cells did not stimulate ISC production. There was no significant level of 3H-thymidine uptake by cultures of SLE or normal mononuclear cells in response to either SLE or normal ACS. In the presence of an excess number of autologous T cells, ACS stimulation of IgG synthesis was further enhanced. These findings indicate that adherent monocytes contribute to B cell hyperactivity in SLE by stimulating B cell differentiation. SLE mononuclear cells appear to be more responsive to ACS stimulation than are normal mononuclear cells.
The purification of human thyroid-stimulating hormone by immunoaffinity chromatography†

Human thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone) has been purified from a side-fraction of human growth hormone production. Purification is effected by immunoaffinity chromatography on an immobilised monoclonal antibody column. The hormone was bound to the immunoabsorbent in 50 mM borate buffer pH 8·5 plus 0·5 M NaCl and eluted by 50 mM glycine/HCl buffer pH 3·5 plus 0·5 M NaCl. The hormone was obtained in a biologically active form and substantially free, <0·5% by weight, of the other pituitary glycoprotein hormones.
Promoting Teacher Quality and Retention in Special Education

Qualified special educators are needed to carry out research-based practices in schools. The shortage of special educators, the high numbers of uncertified teachers, and high attrition rates threaten the practice of science in the schoolhouse and, consequently, the education that students with disabilities receive. If teachers are to use research-based practices to benefit students with disabilities, care must be directed toward teachers, what they do, and the complex conditions in which their practice occurs. In this discussion, I focus on four factors that are important to special education teacher retention--responsive induction programs, deliberate role design, positive work conditions and supports, and professional development. These retention-enhancing factors also serve to cultivate qualified special educators by providing the conditions in which they can thrive and grow professionally.
Training a Quantum Neural Network

Most proposals for quantum neural networks have skipped over the problem of how to train the networks. The mechanics of quantum computing are different enough from classical computing that the issue of training should be treated in detail. We propose a simple quantum neural network and a training method for it. It can be shown that this algorithm works in quantum systems. Results on several real-world data sets show that this algorithm can train the proposed quantum neural networks, and that it has some advantages over classical learning algorithms.
The virtual nose: a 3-dimensional virtual reality model of the human nose.

BackgroundThe 3-dimensionally complex interplay of soft tissue, cartilaginous, and bony elements makes the mastery of nasal anatomy difficult. Conventional methods of learning nasal anatomy exist, ...
Contextual memory deficits observed in mice overexpressing small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ type 2 (KCa2.2, SK2) channels are caused by an encoding deficit

Hippocampal-dependent synaptic plasticity and memory are modulated by apamin-sensitive small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK) channels. Transgenic mice overexpressing SK2 channels (SK2+/T mice) exhibit marked deficits in hippocampal memory and synaptic plasticity, as previously reported. Here, we examined whether SK2 overexpression affects the encoding or retention of contextual memory. Compared with wild-type littermates, SK2+/T mice exhibited significantly less context-dependent freezing 10 min and 24 h after conditioning. Interestingly, this contextual memory impairment was eliminated if SK2+/T mice were permitted longer pre-exposure to the conditioning chamber. These data support converging evidence that SK2 channels restrict the encoding of hippocampal memory.
Prenatal Marijuana Exposure and Neonatal Outcomes in Jamaica: An Ethnographic Study

Objective To identify neurobehavioral effects of prenatal marijuana exposure on neonates in rural Jamaica. Design Ethnographic field studies and standardized neuro-behavior assessments during the neonatal period. Setting Rural Jamaica in heavy-marijuana-using population. Participants Twenty-four Jamaican neonates exposed to marijuana prenatally and 20 nonexposed neonates. Measurements and main results Exposed and nonexposed neonates were compared at 3 days and 1 month old, using the Brazelton Neonatal Assessment Scale, including supplementary items to capture possible subtle effects. There were no significant differences between exposed and nonexposed neonates on day 3. At 1 month, the exposed neonates showed better physiological stability and required less examiner facilitation to reach organized states. The neonates of heavy-marijuana-using mothers had better scores on autonomic stability, quality of alertness, irritability, and self-regulation and were judged to be more rewarding for caregivers. Conclusions The absence of any differences between the exposed on nonexposed groups in the early neonatal period suggest that the better scores of exposed neonates at 1 month are traceable to the cultural positioning and social and economic characteristics of mothers using marijuana that select for the use of marijuana but also promote neonatal development.
Prepared childbirth: The pregnant couple and their marriage

Abstract A discussion of Prepared Childbirth, is theory, hisotry and application to the couple in the marriage is presented. Up to date research and theories are incorporated and related to PPM and testimonials from couples are used to enhance the theories discussed. The implications for nurse-midwifery are discussed throughout.
Creating a More Complete and Current Picture Examining Police and Prosecutor Decision-Making When Processing Sexual Assault Cases

This study sought to identify factors that predicted outcomes for sexual assault cases involving female victims across several decision-making points and compare these findings to prior studies. The results indicate that there continues to be a high attrition rate in the handling of sexual assault cases. Only 9.7% of cases examined resulted in charges. In regards to processing decisions, most of the factors that predicted whether cases were founded, resulted in arrest, presented to the prosecution, or resulted in felony charges were extralegal factors. One factor appeared to influence several decision-making points: whether officers noted discrepancies in victim statements.
Whole-body vibration slows the acquisition of fat in mature female rats

To evaluate the effects of whole-body vibration on fat, bone, leptin and muscle mass. Thirty 7-month-old female 344 Fischer rats were randomized by weight into three groups (baseline, vibration or control; n=8–10 per group). Rats in the vibration group were placed inside individual compartments attached to a Pneu-Vibe vibration platform (Pneumex, Sandpoint, ID, USA) and vibrated at 30–50 Hz (6 mm peak to peak) for 30 min per day, 5 days per week, for 12 weeks. The vibration intervention consisted of six 5-min cycles with a 1-min break between cycles. There were significant body composition differences between the whole-body vibration and the control group. The whole-body vibration group weighed approximately 10% less (mean±s.d.; 207±10 vs 222±15 g, P<0.03) and had less body fat (20.8±3.8 vs 26.8±5.9 g, P<0.05), a lower percentage of body fat (10.2±1.7 vs 12±2.0%, P<0.05), and lower serum leptin levels (1.06±0.45 vs 2.27±0.57 ng ml−1, P<0.01) than the age-matched controls. No differences were observed for total lean mass, bone mineral content (BMC), bone mineral density (BMD), insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) or soleus (SOL) and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) mass or function. Regional high-resolution dual-energy X-ray absoptiometry scans of the lumbar spine (L1-4) revealed that the whole-body vibration group had significantly greater BMC (0.33±0.05 vs 0.26±0.03 g, P<0.01) and BMD (0.21±0.01 vs 0.19±0.01 g cm−2, P<0.01) than the control group. No differences between the groups were observed in the amount of food consumed. These findings show that whole-body vibration reduced body fat accumulation and serum leptin without affecting whole body BMC, BMD or lean mass. However, the increase in vertebral BMC and BMD suggests that vibration may have resulted in local increases in bone mass and density. Also, whole-body vibration did not affect muscle function or food consumption.
Nutrient Uptake of Ornamental Plants Exposed to Arsenic in Hydroponic Solution

Arsenic-based agro-chemicals have contaminated considerable acreage on turf-farms, orchards, and around horticultural production structures. A study was undertaken to evaluate iris (Iris savannarum), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), Tithonia rotundiflora, Coreopsis lanceolata, sunflower (Helianthus annuus), and marigold (Tagetes erecta) for their potential use as arsenic (As) accumulator plants. Plants were grown hydroponically with a modified Hoagland solution containing either 0, 10, 50 or 70 uM As (0.0, 0.75, 3.75, 5.25 mg L-1, respectively). At 5.25 mg As L-1 solution there were no significant reductions in dry weight below that of the controls for iris marigold and sunflower. Maximum shoot As content (mg) for coreopsis and tithonia was reached at 0.75 and for switchgrass at 3.75 mg As L-1 solution. Iris marigold and sunflower maximum shoot As levels occurred at a solution concentration above 5.25 mg As L-1 solution, the high level used in this study. In general P decreased and S increased with increasing solution As. Marigold, switchgrass and sunflower, species that tolerated As at the levels used in this study, had a weak negative correlation between As and Cu concentrations in common. In these species As in hydroponic solution had no effect, or even slightly enhanced, P uptake compared to controls. Arsenic sensitive species coreopsis and tithonia had weak negative correlations between As and K and P in common. Coreopsis and tithonia appears to have a competitive uptake mechanism between arsenate with phosphate. Arsenic tolerance in iris appears to be a result of prohibiting As accumulation in root tissue.
Effects of Connectivity and Regional Dynamics on Restoration of Small Mammal Communities in Midwestern Grasslands

Grasslands are among the most imperiled North American ecosystems. State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) is a national conservation program that converts agricultural fields into grasslands mainly to improve habitat for high priority wildlife species. To provide a broader assessment of the contribution of the SAFE program to biodiversity in the Midwest region of North America, we evaluated local and landscape constraints to restoration of small mammal communities. We livetrapped small mammals during three summers (2009–2011) on plots that were recently seeded, seeded 1–4 years prior to sampling, or established references (>10 years old). Restoration trajectories for small mammal communities included a shift over time from dominance by the habitat generalist Peromyscus maniculatus (deer mouse) to communities dominated by grassland Microtus species (prairie voles and meadow voles). Vole abundance during the first year following restoration depended on spatial connectivity provided by linear habitats (roadside ditches and grass waterways) within 300 m of the restored grassland. Patch size and seeding type (cool-season versus warm-season grasses) were not predictors of early restoration success. In 2011, voles experienced a severe regional decline consistent with multi-year population cycles. During the crash, most remaining voles occurred on restored SAFE grasslands, but not on established grasslands. This surprising outcome suggests young restoration plots could function as refuges for voles during population declines in agricultural landscapes.
Adaptive schemes for expanded diagnosis image evaluation

A method for morphological transformation of images of skin growth and lesions is presented. This method first reduces a color image into a color edged boundary image. A region of interest where a lesion boundary potentially exists is identified and segmented using image edges. The boundary is further refined through various filters for erosion and dilation. The enclosed area within the boundary is then filled for area calculation, from which a histogram is created to show the results. The result can be used to interpret if the skin lesion of interest has changed over time; particularly if it has gotten worse so further medical attention is needed. The described method involves two steps, image acquisition and image processing. The image acquisition can be done using any builtin cameras that are available in mobile phones, laptop computers, or tablets. The second step involves the use of a digital image processing tool, particularly MATLAB for image analysis. Because pictures can be taken with different cameras and under different lighting and other conditions, image processing is important to focus on and isolate the area of interest. In this way, progression of a skin condition can be monitored and diagnosed against a standard or against each other. Other methods of taking and analyzing images are also presented. The presented methods can be expanded to other uses such as telemetry in medicine and can potentially find their way to social media use for educational and self-evaluation purposes.
Influence of molecular parameters on material processability in extrusion processes

A viscosity model showing a direct correlation between molecular weight distributions and shear thinning behavior of polymeric melts was used in 3D numerical simulations of an extrusion process. The equipment analyzed was a single screw extruder with an annular die attached. The material of choice in the simulations was polystyrene in a range of molecular weights and degrees of polydispersity. The influence of material parameters (molecular weight and polydispersity) on the system operating point, power consumption and residence time distribution was analyzed. The results were generalized and a window of processing conditions for resins with different properties was analyzed. The effect of blending homologous polymers with different molecular parameters on material processability was also presented. The model can be extended to other materials and various processing equipment.
Advanced Fire Testing of a Composite Beam with Shear Tab Connections

This paper presents the results of a full-scale experimental test on a composite floor beam designed according to American codes and standards that was subjected to elevated temperatures. The test focused on the fundamental behavior and mechanics of a composite beam with end shear connections that was subjected to combined gravity loads and thermal loading, simulating realistic fire effects that included both heating and cooling. The test was conducted on a 3.80m long composite beam that consisted of a steel beam that was composite with a flat, lightweight concrete slab through the use of shear studs, and the beam was connected to a portal frame using shear tab connections. High temperature ceramic radiant heaters with independent temperature control were used to heat the steel and concrete portions of the specimen. Results from the experimental test provide insight to the behavior of composite beams and the beam-tocolumn connections at elevated temperatures. The composite beam and connection survived heating to 600°C, but the shear tab connection fractured during cooling.
Compressible magnetic-field reconnexion

The Sonnerup solution for reconnexion about an X -type magnetic null point is modified to involve only stable shocks. However, the reconnexion process described does not originate at the line breaking point but is engineered by precise boundary conditions in the inflow region. Our solution is also valid in the compressible case. The limit on the reconnexion rate (in Mach number units) is about 1·5. A non-uniqueness of the solution raises the possibility of viewing flare phenomena as abrupt jumps to different branches of the solution.
Distribution and abundance of the alkali fly (Ephydra hians) Say at Mono Lake, California (USA) in relation to physical habitat

The distribution and abundance of larval, pupal, and adult stages of the alkali fly Ephydra hians Say were examined in relation to location, benthic substrate type, and shoreline features at Mono Lake. Generation time was calculated as a degree-day model for development time at different temperatures, and compared to the thermal environment of the lake at different depths.
Fast computation of the Wigner distribution for finite-length signals

L. Cohen's class (1989) of time-frequency distributions (TFDs), which includes the spectrogram and Wigner distribution (WD), has been widely used to analyze a variety of signals, including EMGs, EEGs, sonar data and speech. The WD is noted for its ability to localize mono-component signals in time and frequency, and, other than the spectrogram, is perhaps the most often-used TFD. An approach for the evaluation of the discrete-time WD (DTWD) of a finite-length signal which requires 25% less computation time than traditional schemes is introduced. Traditional fast DTWD algorithms rely on the fast Fourier transform (FFT), which shifts autocorrelation slices (decimates in frequency) in order to minimize multiplications. The approach uses a decimation scheme which shifts the signal rather than autocorrelation slices, effectively moving blocks of the autocorrelation, so that the resulting twiddle multiplications are reduced. >
Intraseasonal Modulation of Summer Precipitation over North America

Abstract The intraseasonal rainfall variability over North America is examined using singular spectrum analysis (SSA) and composites of outgoing longwave radiation anomalies (OLRAs), 200-hPa divergence and a gridded rainfall dataset over the United States. The evolution of the Arizona and New Mexico (AZNM) monsoon based on composites indicates that rainfall anomalies propagate eastward from the North Pacific through AZNM, the Great Plains, to the eastern United States. During summer, the wet and dry periods of the AZNM monsoon are modulated by an oscillatory mode with a period of 22–25 days (22-day mode). This is also the dominant mode associated with rainfall events over the Great Plains. The influence of the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) on the AZNM monsoon is secondary. The strongest impact of the MJO is on precipitation over Mexico. SSA performed on the 200-hPa divergence and OLRAs averaged over Mexico show only one oscillatory mode with a period of about 36–40 days. The 22–25-day mode also exists i...
PTSD in solid organ transplant recipients: Current understanding and future implications

PTSS are quite prevalent in transplant recipients, although full-scale PTSD may not be that common. Those symptoms have been linked to poor transplant outcomes, perhaps owing to non-adherence to medications and other recommendations, brought about by the avoidance dimension of the PTSD/PTSS construct (patients may avoid taking their medications because they serve as reminder of the emotionally traumatic event--the transplant). It is possible to treat PTSD via specific psychotherapeutic techniques, and the treatment has been shown to be safe and likely effective in other populations. Therefore, practitioners who treat transplant recipients should be familiar with the presentation and treatment of those symptoms. This manuscript provides a systematic literature review of the PTSD/PTSS presentation in the pediatric transplant setting, a synthesis of available research findings, and suggestions for current care and future research.
Juveniles and psychiatric institutionalization: toward better due process and treatment review in the United States.

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) can be used as a framework to examine issues regarding psychiatric institutionalization of juveniles in the United States. The current U.S. system allows children diagnosed with relatively mild, non-psychotic disorders or exhibiting delinquent behaviors to be placed in institutions. Failure to regulate treatment in these faciltities also results in abuses by the treatment providers. Parents can institutionalize a child under the guise of mental health "treatment" because they disapprove of the child's lifestyle choices. In some states, parents can waive the child's right to an impartial hearing before institutionalization. The serious social, mental, and physical health consequences of erroneous deprivation of liberty are discussed. Recommendations include that the U.S. ratify the CRC, guarantee due process for juveniles faced with institutionalization, conduct systematic treatment reviews, and correct institutional abuses.
Engineering the Interaction Forces to Optimize CMP Performance

The main objective of Chemical Mechanical Polishing (CMP) process is to planarize the metal or dielectric layers deposited on the wafer surfaces in microelectronics device manufacturing. In CMP, slurries containing submicrometer size particles and chemicals are used to achieve planarization. An effective polishing requires an optimal material removal rate with minimal surface deformation. Therefore, it is important to control the particle-substrate interactions that are responsible for the material removal and the particle-particle interactions, which control the slurry stability and consequently the defect density. This paper discusses the impact of interaction forces on polishing, and underlines the scientific guidelines to formulate consistently high performing CMP slurries.
Succinylmonocholine iodide: its enzymatic hydrolysis and neuromuscular activity.

SummaryThe hydrolysis of succinylmono-choline iodide in normal and heat inactivated human plasmas was compared to the hydrolysis of succinyldicholine dichloride. In normal plasma, the hydrolysis rate of succinylmonocholine iodide was found to be about 8 times slower than that of succinyldicholine dichloride. In heat inactivated plasma, the hydrolysis rate of succinylmonocholine iodide was negligible in the 2-hour observation period. Succinylmonocholine iodide in 1.0 to 2.5 mg/ kg doses inhibited neuromuscular transmission in the sciatic-gastrocnemius preparation of cats.
A AND B BUT NOT C: DISCRIMINATING POWER OF GROUPED ALTERNATIVES

Typical multiple-choice items usually consist of a stem and four or five options, one of which constitutes the correct response. Occasionally items are constructed such that either all or none of the options are correct. However, in another common item format there may be more than one correct option as well as one or more incorrect options. The "best possible" answer for such an item might read "A and B but not C or perhaps "A and B but not C or D." On a content-odented test, an item functions properly to the extent that it discriminates between high and low scorers on that test. It has been the first author's opinion, however, that grouped oprions of rhe "A and B but not C variety lack discriminating power. Supporting data are reported below. Two alternate forms of the Questionnaire For Knowledge About Alcoholism' were mailed to the 244 students in the Brown University Medical School. The questionnaire is actualIy a power test designed to assess knowledge about the physiological and behavioral effects of alcohol. Each form contains 45 multiple-choice items of five options each. Completed forms were received from 34 subjects (61 males, 33 females; median age = 23 yr.). Although this represents a return rate of only 40%, the distribution of age and sex of the resulting sample indicates that there is probably no selective bias with respect to the original subject pool. Subjects were allowed to complete the tests at their own rate and in any order. Mean score on Form A was 20.75 (SD = 4.34) and on Form B was 22.25 (SD = 4.48). a difference which was not statistically significant. (Maximum score ssible on both forms was 45.) The options of interest were the 22 of the "A and B K t not C" type, of which 11 occurred on each form Eight of these options were correct item completions while 14 were incorrect choices. Discrimination index for all item options was determined by estimating the point-biserial correlation coefficient ( 1 ) using the top and botrom 27% of the distribution of total score on each form. Average discrimination index for the eight correct options was 0.18 (SD = 0.20), while for the ocher 82 correcc options it was 0.28 (SD = 0.22). Although the discrimination index was lower for the grouped options, the difference was not statistically significant. However, average discrimination index for the 14 incorrect options was -0.03 (SD = 0.22), essentially no discriminating power whatsoever. By comparison, the average discrimination index for the remaining distractors within the same item in which the incorrect grouped alternative was located was -0.18 (SD = 0.25). significantly lower than the incorrect grouped alternatives ( t = 2.10, d f = 54, p < .05). Options marking incorrect choices should be negatively correlated with test performance since choosing such an option should decrease total test score. These results indicate that, especially as distractors, item options of the "A and B bur not C format fail to discriminate adequately between high and low test performance. Test constructors should avoid whatever temptation motivates the use of such item options.
Effects of patient age and sex on treatment: correction of Class II malocclusion with the Begg technique.

Abstract When children are treated orthodontically during a phase of active growth—notably adolescence—there is the opportunity to harness growth to achieve some of the correction, especially in the sagittal plane in which differential jaw growth can harmonize dental relationships. All correction must be from tooth movement when there is no growth. Three questions were addressed in the present study: (1) how much orthodontic correction is achieved by bone growth? (2) do the proportions of tooth and bone movement depend on patient age? and (3) do the jaws of boys and girls grow at discernibly different rates during treatment? A sample of 139 children aged 9 to 17 years at the start of treatment with Class II division 1 malocclusions was studied cephalometrically using Johnston analysis. Maxillary and mandibular growth were highest in the youngest children, with rates decreasing to effectively zero in the oldest adolescents. Means adjusted for age were significantly higher for boys than for girls for upper ...
BODY STRUCTURE AND DESIGN: FACTORS IN THE MOTOR PERFORMANCE OF COLLEGE WOMEN.

Abstract Pure speed, the Sargent Jump, a 600-yd. run-walk, back strength, leg strength, and the Strength Index were studied in relation to 43 measures of body structure and design. These latter measurements, all secured by means of photogrammetric techniques, included measures of length, depth, breadth, area, as well as nonlinear expressions of body build and design and experimental combinations of variables. Correlations significant beyond the .01 level of confidence were obtained between performance criteria and one or more variable from each group, the highest consistent relationships being with area measurements and experimental combinations of variables.
Shared Genetic Etiology for Migraine and Epilepsy

Shared loci for migraine and epilepsy were found on chromosomes 14q12-q23 and 12q24.2-q24.3 in a linkage analysis study of a Finish family with a complex phenotype, in a report from Folkhalsan Institute and other centers in Helsinki and Oulu, Finland; University of California, Los Angeles; and Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK.
Nontraditional Approach for Interprofessional Service Learning in a Doctor of Physical Therapy Program: The Farm Worker Family Health Program

Interdisciplinary service learning opportunities are recognized as valuable educational tools for healthcare students, including those in physical therapy doctoral programs. However, it is unclear what components of these service learning initiatives are most successful for preparing students to collaborate as part of a healthcare team and communicate with diverse patient populations. The Farm Worker Family Health Program, based on a community academic partnership model, enables healthcare students from several disciplines to treat migrant workers during the annual farmworker migration. This program offers students the opportunity to provide beneficial medical attention to an underserved population, hone clinical practice techniques and critical thinking, and build inter-professional communication skills. The experience may benefit students by not only enriching their skills as novice clinicians, but also by deepening their sense of empathy. The present article describes how this opportunity has been incorporated into a physical therapy graduate program, and explores the implications of melding immersive interdisciplinary civic engagement with physical therapy education in order to foster clinical and communication skills.