cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Standoff Raman measurement of nitrates in water

The identification and real time detection of explosives and hazardous materials are of great interest to the Army and environmental monitoring/protection agencies. The application and efficiency of the remote Raman spectroscopy system for real time detection and identification of explosives and other hazardous chemicals of interest, air pollution monitoring, planetary and geological mineral analysis at various standoff distances have been demonstrated. In this paper, we report the adequacy of stand-off Raman system for remote detection and identification of chemicals in water using dissolved sodium nitrate and ammonium nitrate for concentrations between 200ppm and 5000ppm. Nitrates are used in explosives and are also necessary nutrients required for effective fertilizers. The nitrates in fertilizers are considered as potential sources of atmospheric and water pollution. The standoff Raman system used in this work consists of a 2-inch refracting telescope for collecting the scattered Raman light and a 785nm laser operating at 400mW coupled with a small portable spectrometer.
Spontaneous emergence of overgrown molar teeth in a colony of Prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster)

Continuously growing incisors are common to all rodents, which include the Microtus genus of voles. However, unlike many rodents, voles also possess continuously growing molars. Here, we report spontaneous molar defects in a population of Prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster). We identified bilateral protuberances on the ventral surface of the mandible in several voles in our colony. In some cases, the protuberances broke through the cortical bone. The mandibular molars became exposed and infected, and the maxillary molars entered the cranial vault. Visualisation upon soft tissue removal and microcomputed tomography (microCT) analyses confirmed that the protuberances were caused by the overgrowth of the apical ends of the molar teeth. We speculate that the unrestricted growth of the molars was due to the misregulation of the molar dental stem cell niche. Further study of this molar phenotype may yield additional insight into stem cell regulation and the evolution and development of continuously growing teeth.
Standing on the shoulders of giants

Few scientists have had a greater impact on our understanding of biological processes than Barbara McClintock. Her discovery of transposable elements and her unorthodox ideas about genome organization and function have provided the intellectual foundation for the current genomics revolution.Using genomics technology, Jeff Bennetzen (Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA) has begun to develop a comprehensive view of the prevalance and distribution of transposable elements in maize and the distantly related grasses, rice and sorghum. In 1996, Bennetzen's lab made the surprising discovery that most of the huge stretches of intergenic DNA in maize are comprised exclusively of one class of element, retrotransposons that can apparently attain phenomenal copy numbers by inserting harmlessly into each other. The ability to date retrotransposon insertion times through the divergence of the long terminal repeat (LTR) sequences of the elements led to another surprising finding, that most retrotransposition has occurred within the past five million years.The idea that the transposable elements in the maize genome have undergone recent and massive amplification is also consistent with the findings of Qiang Zhang (University of Georgia, Athens, USA) who reported on the Heartbreaker (Hbr) family of miniature inverted repeat elements (MITEs). The finding that the 3000 to 4000 Hbr elements are both highly conserved (<90%) and polymorphic in maize suggests that they have recently been amplified. Zhang also reported that over 70% of the examined Hbr insertion sites were in single or low copy sequences (regions thought to contain the genes), despite 80–90% of the maize genome being repetitive. Taken together, the data on the recent amplification of retrotransposons and MITEs indicate that the maize genome has a very dynamic recent history, and this may have contributed to its remarkable success as an easily adaptable crop plant.This meeting described the use of genes isolated from Antirrhinum to yeast to explore maize biology. As the era of functional genomics and interspecific investigations advances, exciting new challenges and opportunities await this generation of maize geneticists.
Extracellular calcium‐sensing receptor in rat oligodendrocytes: Expression and potential role in regulation of cellular proliferation and an outward K+ channel

A G protein-coupled, extracellular calcium (Ca02+)-sensing receptor (CaR) cloned from parathyroid, kidney, and brain plays crucial roles in systemic calcium metabolism. In brain, the CaR is located in nerve terminals as well as in fiber tracts, where it may be expressed in glia. Moreover, there is Ca2+- and K+-dependent communication between axons and oligodendroglia. To investigate further the potential role of the CaR in oligodendroglia, we studied expression of CaR mRNA and protein as well as the effects of CaR agonists on cellular proliferation and Ca2+-activated K+ channel activity in immature rat oligodendrocytes in primary culture. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and sequencing of CaR transcripts from oligodendrocytes revealed >99% sequence identity with the rat kidney CaR. Northern analysis demonstrated 7.5 and 4.1 kb transcripts in oligodendrocytes, similar to those in rat parathyroid and kidney, while Western analysis and immunocytochemistry with CaR-specific antisera showed the presence of CaR protein. Immunocytochemically, the CaR was co-localized with galactocerebroside in the cultured oligodendrocytes. Raising Ca02+ from 1.8 to 4.8 mM or addition of the polycationic CaR agonist neomycin (300 μM) modestly but significantly increased [3H]-thymidine incorporation into oligodendrocytes. Elevating Ca02+ from 0.75 to 3.0 mM or addition of 100 μM neomycin also produced 2–2.5-fold increases in the open state probability (PO) of an outward K+ channel with a unitary conductance of 88 ± 5 pS. Taken together, our data show that the CaR is expressed in immature oligodendrocytes and may be functionally linked to cellular proliferation and an outward K+ channel potentially contributing to local ionic homeostasis in the vicinity of oligodendroglia. GLIA 24:449–458, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Pediatric anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis is seasonal

In the majority of pediatric anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis (NMDARe) cases, the underlying cause of antibody production and subsequent disease remains unknown. We aimed to characterize this poorly understood population, investigating epidemiological factors potentially related to disease etiology, particularly season of onset. In this retrospective case review study, we analyzed data from the 29 pediatric subjects with anti-NMDAR antibodies and found that symptoms were first reported in the warm months of April–September in 78% of non-tumor-related NMDARe (NT-NMDARe) cases. These findings support further investigation into a possible seasonal trigger of NT-NMDARe.
Invariant Algebra and Cuspidal Representations of Finite Monoids

Abstract Motivated by the theories of Hecke algebras and Schur algebras, we consider in this paper the algebra C MGofG-invariants of a finite monoidMwith unit groupG. IfMis a regular “balanced” monoid, we show that C MGis a quasi-hereditary algebra. In such a case, we find the blocks of C MGto be the “sections” of the blocks of C M. We go on to develop a theory of cuspidal representations for balanced monoids. We then apply our results to the full transformation semigroup and the multiplicative monoid of triangular matrices over a finite field.
Factors predictive of readmission after hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Background Hepatic resection is associated with substantial morbidity and resource use. To contain costs and improve outcomes, recent health care regulations focus on reducing hospital readmissions while using readmission rates as a quality measure. The goal of this investigation was to characterize the incidence, patterns, and risk factors for readmission after resection for hepatocellular carcinoma. Study design Patient demographics, operative factors, and perioperative outcomes of 245 patients undergoing hepatic resection at an academic center from 2000 to 2012 were reviewed retrospectively. Factors associated for readmission within 90 days of operation were identified through univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results Forty-six patients (18.7%) required hospital readmission. Univariate analysis identified American Society of Anesthesiologists class, preoperative Model for End-stage Liver Disease score and total bilirubin, preexisting vascular disease, acute renal failure, bile leak, peak postoperative total bilirubin, and intraabdominal infection as factors associated with readmission. Intraabdominal infection, postoperative renal failure, and a history of vascular disease were found to be significant on multivariate analysis. Overall, intraabdominal infection was the strongest predictor for readmission. Conclusion Early readmission after hepatectomy remains relatively common. Postoperative complications and patient comorbidities are the dominant factors in readmission, and we must be mindful of those patients at increased risk for readmission.
Assessing the clinical utility of agoraphobia in the context of panic disorder.

In the DSM-IV, a panic disorder (PD) diagnosis includes specification of agoraphobia, which is primarily an index of situational avoidance due to fear of panic. No other anxiety diagnosis requires specification of level of avoidance. This raises the question as to whether agoraphobia provides unique information beyond the core features of PD (i.e., panic attacks and panic-related worry). The incremental validity of agoraphobia, defined using DSM-IV specifiers versus level of situational avoidance, was examined in relation to the expression and treatment of PD (N=146). Analyses indicate that agoraphobia status adds uniquely to the prediction of PD symptoms, impairment, and response to treatment. However, level of situational avoidance, defined either as a continuous or dichotomous variable, appears to have greater utility compared to the DSM-IV method of classifying agoraphobia. In summary, the agoraphobia specifier seems to have clinical utility but this could be improved by focusing on a dimensional assessment of situational avoidance. Depression and Anxiety 0:1–9, 2007. Published 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Increasing Social Interaction Using Prelinguistic Milieu Teaching With Nonverbal School-Age Children With Autism

Purpose Children with autism display marked deficits in initiating and maintaining social interaction. Intervention using play routines can create a framework for developing and maintaining social interaction between these children and their communication partners. Method Six nonverbal 5- to 8-year-olds with autism were taught to engage in social interaction within salient play routines. Prelinguistic milieu teaching (PMT) techniques were used to teach the children to communicate intentionally during these routines. Intervention focused on the children's social interaction with an adult. The effects of intervention were evaluated using a multiple baseline design across participants. Results At study onset, the participants demonstrated few consistent interaction with others. With intervention, all of the children improved their ability to sustain social interactions, as evidenced by an increase in the number of communicative interactions during play routines. Participants also increased their overall rate...
Isolation of Recombinant Viruses between Cauliflower Mosaic Virus and a Viral Gene in Transgenic Plants under Conditions of Moderate Selection Pressure

Abstract We demonstrate that recombinant viruses formed between a wild-type virus and a viral transgene can be isolated from transgenic plants under conditions of moderate to weak selection pressure. We inoculated cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) strain W260 to transgenic Nicotiana bigelovii plants that expressed a copy of CaMV gene VI derived from CaMV strain D4, a gene that determines systemic infection of solanaceous species, including N. bigelovii. Because W260 infects nontransformed N. bigelovii systemically, a recombinant virus formed between W260 and the D4 transgene would be expected to have little selective advantage over the wild-type W260 virus. W260 was inoculated to approximately 100 plants each of nontransformed and transgenic N. bigelovii and it systemically infected nearly all of the plants. An analysis of viral DNA recovered from 23 transgenic plants infected with W260 revealed that 20 infections resulted from the systemic movement of the wild-type W260 virus, while a recombinant between W260 and the D4 transgene was detected in three of the infections. To determine the percentage of recovery of recombinant viruses under strong selection pressure, we inoculated approximately 100 nontransformed and 100 D4 gene VI transgenic plants with CaMV strain CM1841, a virus that is unable to infect nontransformed N. bigelovii. CM1841 infected 36% of the transgenic plants systemically, but none of the nontransformed controls. An analysis of 24 infected plants showed that a recombination event occurred in every plant, demonstrating that under strong selection conditions, the recovery of CaMV recombinants from transgenic plants can be very high.
Looking Inward, Looking Outward: The Politics of State Welfare Innovation under Devolution

Theories of federalism supporting the devolution of welfare policy to the states suggest that the removal of national policy controls will allow states to tailor-make welfare policy to fit local needs and preferences. These theories predict that state policymaking under devolution will respond mostly to state-specific factors. Alternative theories of federalism suggest that devolution will increasingly expose states to national and interstate pressure, and that state policymaking will follow primarily national factors. We use data on AFDC waivers granted to states from 1977 through the end of the program in 1996 to test these competing approaches. National factors tend to be more important than state-spcific factors in shaping state welfare innovation, supporting competitive theories of federalism, although welfare innovation, unlike benefit levels, does not seem to be susceptible to the “welfare magnet” phenomenon.
Sub-Saharan Africans in the Gulf Countries: An Exploratory Survey of Kenyan Migrants in Qatar

Abstract Background: A recent survey by the World Bank puts Kenya as the second-highest recipient of inward remittance in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), contributing 5.7 percent to the country's GDP. The Gulf Cooperation Countries are becoming a favored destination for migrants, including those from SSA. The existing literature does not adequately examine the impact of remittance, and of migration, on migrants and their families. To our knowledge, this is the first exploratory survey of migrants from Kenya in the Gulf region. Objectives: This research attempts to track migration and remittance trends between Qatar and Kenya that would enable policy-makers and researchers to monitor the impact of remittance on the local economy. It also serves as a valuable introduction that enhances our understanding of the challenges faced by migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa. Methods : Original data from 52 male migrants were collected between June and December 2010. The survey covered the following issues: health, demographi...
NITROGEN AND CREATINE METABOLISM IN RELATION TO ENVIRONMENTAL TEMPERATURE AND THYROID FUNCTION1

Increased metabolism, a normal response to exposure to cold, is associated with stimulation of thyroid activity, as evidenced partly by hyperplasia of the gland and loss of colloid. These changes may be prevented by the administration of thyroid or thyroxine (1) and somewhat less regularly by iodide (2). In untreated rats kept at low temperatures the augmented metabolism may be related to increased secretion of hormone, while in those treated with thyroid substance it is presumably dependent on the exogenous supply of hormone, inasmuch as the activity of the gland itself is conspicuously depressed (1). This, combined with the augmented hormone requirement, may explain, in part, the increased tolerance to thyroid and thyroxine of rats exposed to a low thermal environment. Rats have been found to survive long periods of exposure to a temperature of 3–5°C. on doses of thyroid and thyroxine which at higher temperatures (22–30°C) caused death in a few days. The marked toxicity of thyroid substance at high temp...
Computation of the magnetic field generated by an underground pipe-type cable

A hybrid computational method for predicting the magnetic field in the vicinity of an underground three-phase pipe-type cable is presented in this paper. This hybrid method combines the numerical techniques of the finite element method and the unimoment method. An iterative solution procedure is developed and employed to treat the nonlinear B-H characteristic of the steel pipe. To validate the computational method, measurements were made and the numerical results are compared with the measured data and with the results obtained previously by using a different numerical method. The result of the comparison is satisfactory.
Fourier analysis of diamond discretization¶in particle transport

This paper analyzes, theoretically and numerically, the diamond discretization (DD) of free particle transport equations. DD is one of the most commonly used discretizations used in particle transport theory, with applications ranging from the propagation of neutrons in nuclear physics to that of near-infra-red photons in medical imaging. Based on the theory of scalar hyperbolic equations in the Fourier domain, we show that DD performs very well when the boundary data are smooth and the absorption coefficient small. However, because high frequency modes are not damped at all by DD even in the dissipative case, several unphysical modes appear when the boundary conditions are not so smooth. These spurious oscillations are analyzed carefully and displayed numerically.
Acyclovir-Induced Neutropenia in an Infant with Herpes Simplex Encephalitis: Case Report

A newborn infant whose condition was diagnosed as herpes simplex encephalitis and who had subsequent recurrences of skin disease had repeated episodes of neutropenia while receiving therapy with intravenous (30 mg/[kg.d]) or oral (30 mg/]kg.d]) acyclovir. The neutropenia did not recur when the dosage of oral acyclovir was reduced to 10 mg/(kg.d). This case represents the first well-documented report of acyclovir-induced neutropenia.
Performance of Foil Supported Electrode System and Plans for Improvement

In a previous communication the advantages and the performance of foil supported wires for counter arrays were described, and we hinted at rate limitations caused by voltage drop in the resistive foil. The non-uniform material properties which are never quite ruled out initially and often develop under irradiation, particle bombardment etc. - at least on the surface of organic foils, and the recent increase of stable gas-amplification make these limitations severe beyond our first expectation. This is a preliminary report on a changed approach: we use a good insulator for supporting the foil and eliminate the field distortion caused by surface charges through a self shielding geometry described below.
A detailed study of kinetic effects of energetic particles on resistive MHD linear stability

The effects of energetic particles on MHD instabilities is a key issue in the basic physics that will be important in burning plasma experiments such as ITER. Recently, experiments (JET, JT-60U and DIII-D) have shown that the kinetic effects of energetic particles can play a crucial role in the stability of the m/n = 2/1 tearing mode, where the fraction of energetic particle βfrac ≡ βh/β is high (β = 2μ0P/B2, P is pressure, B is magnetic field and βh is the energetic particle β). For the study of the kinetic effects of energetic particles on resistive MHD stability, using model equilibria based on DIII-D experimental reconstructions, the non-ideal MHD linear stability of cases unstable to the 2/1 mode is investigated including a δf PIC model for the energetic particles coupled to the nonlinear 3D resistive MHD code NIMROD (Kim et al 2008 Phys. Plasmas 15 072507). The growth of unstable modes is calculated at a series of β, βfrac and S = τR/τA (the ratio of the resistive time to Alfven time), spanning from the resistive to the ideal unstable regime of the mode, up to and above βfrac = 0.25, and well into the asymptotic regime of the resistivity. It is observed that energetic particles have significant damping and stabilizing effects at experimentally relevant β, βfrac and S, and less damping and stabilizing effects at the ideal unstable regime. It is also observed that energetic particles excite a real frequency of the 2/1 mode. The growth rates significantly reduce at experimentally relevant β, βfrac and S due to the mode interacting with the trapped particles and 'barely passing' particles. Furthermore, extrapolation of the results is discussed for implications for JET and ITER, where the effects are projected to be significant.
Theoretical, structural, and spectroscopic studies of a series of NiII(TRISOXH3)X2 complexes

Abstract A series of nickel tris(oxime)amine complexes, including Ni(TRISOXH3)Br2 (2), [Ni(TRISOXH3)(MeOH)I]I (3), and [Ni(TRISOXH3)(H2O)2]F2 · 2H2O (4), was studied using modern density functional theory in combination with experimental methods (X-ray crystallography, Raman, and infrared spectroscopy). The series was compared to Ni(TRISOXH3)Cl2 (1), for which a detailed evaluation of theoretical models has been previously reported [R.M. Jones, M.J. Baldwin, J. Phys. Chem. 108 (2004) 3537]. The application of the theoretical model and the influence of changing the secondary ligands on nickel–TRISOXH3 interactions are evaluated. The crystal structures of 2, 3, and 4 show similar coordination geometries with some noted differences attributed to the different ligands. Unrestricted optimized geometry and frequency calculations were performed with the hybrid density functional B3LYP and split basis sets. Optimized geometries show small average absolute deviations for intraligand (0.016 A) and metal–ligand bonds (0.042 A) when compared to experimental crystal structures. The most intense vibrational modes of 2, 3, and 4 were assigned with the aid of a modified wavenumber linear scaling procedure, which resulted in 2- to 3-fold improvement in the agreement between experimental and theoretical wavenumbers. Derived linear scale functions for 1 can be successfully applied to theoretical frequencies of 2 and 3, but yield minimal improvement in the agreement between experimental and theoretical frequencies when applied to the frequencies of 4. Natural charge and unpaired spin distribution are evaluated for comparison of electronic influences of the varied ligands on metal–oxime interactions.
Antimicrobial Peptides: Successes, Challenges and Unanswered Questions

Multidrug antibiotic resistance is an increasingly serious public health problem worldwide. Thus, there is a significant and urgent need for the development of new classes of antibiotics that do not induce resistance. To develop such antimicrobial compounds, we must look toward agents with novel mechanisms of action. Membrane-permeabilizing antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are good candidates because they act without high specificity toward a protein target, which reduces the likelihood of induced resistance. Understanding the mechanism of membrane permeabilization is crucial for the development of AMPs into useful antimicrobial agents. Various models, some phenomenological and others more quantitative or semimolecular, have been proposed to explain the action of AMPs. While these models explain many aspects of AMP action, none of the models captures all of the experimental observations, and significant questions remain unanswered. Here, we discuss the state of the field and pose some questions that, if answered, could speed the discovery of clinically useful peptide antibiotics.
Use of perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene in the management of suprachoroidal hemorrhages.

Background: Suprachoroidal hemorrhage may cause the expulsion of intraocular contents. Generally, cases of nonexpulsive suprachoroidal hemorrhage have a better outcome than their expulsive counterparts. Those cases with massive nonexpulsive suprachoroidal hemorrhage do better with treatment than without. Treatment modalities have included suprachoroidal hemorrhage drainage with or without intraocular volume reformation, and vitrectomy. Methods: The authors used the liquid perfluorocarbon perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene in the treatment of three patients with nonexpulsive suprachoroidal hemorrhage. The perfluorocarbon was injected into the vitreous cavity while the suprachoroidal blood was drained through anterior sclerotomies. Results: With 5 months of follow-up, complete resolution of the suprachoroidal blood was noted in all patients. All three patients had attached retinas, and postoperative visual acuities were improved over preoperative visual acuities. Conclusion: Perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene and other perfluorocarbon liquids may be beneficial in the treatment of certain cases of nonexpulsive suprachoroidal hemorrhages.
Exposure of frog hearts to CW or amplitude-modulated VHF fields: selective efflux of calcium ions at 16 Hz.

Isolated frog hearts were exposed for 30-min periods in a Crawford cell to a 240-MHz electromagnetic field, either continuous-wave or sinusoidally modulated at 0.5 or 16 Hz. Radiolabeled with calcium (45Ca), the hearts were observed for movement of Ca2+ at calculated SARs of 0.15, 0.24, 0.30, 0.36, 1.50, or 3.00 mW/kg. Neither CW radiation nor radiation at 0.5 Hz, which is close to the beating frequency of the frog's heart, affected movement of calcium ions. When the VHF field was modulated at 16 Hz, a field-intensity-dependent change in the efflux of calcium ions was observed. Relative to control values, ionic effluxes increased by about 18% at 0.3 mW/kg (P less than .01) and by 21% at 0.15 mW/kg (P less than .05), but movement of ions did not change significantly at other rates of energy deposition. These data indicate that the intact myocardium of the frog, akin to brain tissue of neonatal chicken, exhibits movement of calcium ions in response to a weak VHF field that is modulated at 16 Hz.
Divisible groups in the K-theory completion of SU(n)

Abstract Results of Bendersky and Thompson for the E ( 1 ) -based E 2 -term of S 2 n + 1 , and the results of Bendersky and Davis concerning the v 1 -periodic groups of SU ( n ) are used to compute the E ( 1 ) -based E 2 -term for SU ( n ) at odd primes. This computation is performed using the Bendersky Thompson spectral sequence for SU ( n ) . For spaces like SU ( n ) this spectral sequence converges to homotopy groups of the K-theory completion of SU ( n ) . Of particular interest, is the existence of infinitely many divisible groups in the homotopy groups of the K-theory completion of SU which offers an example of how E-completion does not commute with direct limits.
Generalized Kirchoff's current and Voltage law formulation for coupled circuit-electromagnetic Simulation with surface Integral equations

In this paper, a new formulation for coupled circuit-electromagnetic (EM) simulation is presented. The formulation employs full-wave integral equations to model the EM behavior of two- or three-dimensional structures while using modified nodal analysis to model circuit interactions. A coupling scheme based on charge and current continuity and potential matching, realized as a generalization of Kirchoff's voltage and current laws, ensures that the EM and circuit interactions can be formulated as a seamless system. While rigorous port models for EM structures can be obtained using the approach discussed herein, it is shown that the coupling paradigm can reveal additional details of the EM-circuit interactions and can provide a path to analysis-based design iteration.
Lung Cyclic 3′,5′-Adenosine Monophosphate and Adenylate Cyclase in Endotoxic Shock

Cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP) and adenylate cyclase activity were measured in lungs from guinea pigs in endotoxic shock induced by an intravenous injection of Salmonella enteritidis endotoxin (10 mg/kg body weight). Both cyclic AMP content and adenylate cyclase activity were significantly elevated in lung tissue from the endotoxic guinea pigs. There was no apparent change in the affinity of adenylate cyclase for its substrate (ATP); however, the maximum velocity of the enzyme reaction was increased in lungs from the endotoxic group. Endotoxin, in the concentration range of 10(-4) to 10(-2) micrograms/ml, added to lung homogenates did not affect adenylate cyclase activity. Prostaglandins do not seem to mediate the effects of endotoxin in vivo on lung cyclic AMP since treatment of guinea pigs with indomethacin (10 mg/kg body weight) 30 min prior to endotoxin administration did not alter the endotoxin-induced increase in lung cyclic AMP.
Noise reduction algorithms using Fibonacci Fourier transforms

This paper presents the new Fibonacci Fourier-like transforms. The proposed transforms render the relationship between Fibonacci numbers and the conventional Discrete Fourier Transform. The fast Fibonacci Fourier transforms are also introduced with the use of the Kronecker product properties. The proposed transforms are applied to the problem of noise reduction with two new algorithms, sliding double window filtering and fusion sliding window filtering. The primary concept of sliding double window filtering is to process the noisy signals with nonoverlapped windows, while the primary concept of fusion sliding window filtering is to process the noisy signals with various weighted filtering methods and overlapped signal values. The results and analysis show the noise reduction of the given noisy gray level images. The proposed methods are compared with the well-known Wiener filtering using images that contain Gaussian noise with the range of variance between 0 and 0.3. The analysis shows by visual inspection that the noisy parts are smoothened while retaining natural edges.
Design methodologies for tolerating cell and interconnect faults in FPGAs

Significant increases in chip yield can result if faulty logic cells and wiring in field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) can be isolated from the remainder of the circuitry to retain a completely usable chip. Utilizing the principle of node-covering, a routing discipline has been developed that allows each logic cell in an FPGA to cover-to be able to replace-its neighbor in a row. An FPGA is factory-reconfigured such that a faulty cell is replaced by its cover, which in turn is replaced by its own cover, and so on until a spare cell in the row is reached. Since wiring channel area is a major portion of chip area in an FPGA, new techniques are also proposed for tolerating wiring faults. As with faulty logic cells, faulty wiring portions are replaced by adjacent ones, until eventually a spare wiring portion is reached. Compared to other techniques for fault tolerance in FPGAs, these methods are shown to provide significantly greater yield improvement.
Visible/Near-Infrared Spectrophotometric Blood Typing Sensor for Automated Near-Patient Testing

Automation in near-patient ABO testing has been prohibitive due to cost. Recently, a spectrophotometric approach to blood typing has been developed by examining the spectral slopes of RBC suspensions in saline, in the presence and absence of various antibodies. In this paper, we present a simplified method and a sensor that can replace the spectral imaging component of the diode-array spectrophotometer with a discrete array of LED/IRED and photodiode pairs within the 660 nm-1000 nm wavelength range of interest. An experimental sensor has been designed and evaluated for the reproduction of results recorded on an HP8453 diode-array spectrophotometer. The LED and photodiode pairs are found to successfully reproduce the spectroscopic determination of red blood cell agglutination, as supported by Mie scattering theory examined herein
Legal Response to Child Sexual Abuse in Day Care

Empirical studies of criminal justice decision making in cases of child sexual abuse have been rare. A sample of 43 cases of alleged sexual abuse in day care (involving 58 perpetrators) were analyz...
The Nanocell: A Chemically Assembled Molecular Electronic Circuit

Computing is one of the most demanding applications of integrated circuits (IC). It requires the highest possible speed to process information. Higher speeds imply smaller circuits and, therefore, higher densities of integration. Thus, the most effective way to make faster circuits is by "scaling down", i.e., reducing the device size proportionally. However, under present technology, miniaturization is mainly constrained by the amount of heat dissipated as the number of devices increases per unit area and by the ability of lithographic tools to chisel smaller details on bulk substrates; these are technical constraints. However, there are physical or natural constraints which are practically material independent (speed of light, size of atoms, response of the electron, and Planck constant). Two main scenarios have been proposed for using molecules or small group of atoms (clusters) to build devices able to perform logical operations, bypassing, to some extent, problems undermining miniaturization or scaling-down processes for IC. One approach is the crossbar; a promising technology that uses directed self-assembly to make nanoarrays similar in shape to those already fabricated at larger scales by standard electronics. The other approach is the nanocell, which is a complementary design in the sense that it builds up (bottom-up) from single molecules into precise and complex structures that can be approached by standard lithography. This paper focuses on the description, advances, and possibilities of the nanocell approach, which takes advantage of the great skills developed by chemists to synthesize molecules with precise arrangements of atoms in a molecule. The nanocell concept does not require a deterministic assembly or deposition of molecules and clusters, thanks to the recently discovered programmability feature of molecules. Thus, in this paper, it is shown that the nanocell is a feasible concept for the development of electronics beyond deterministic lithographic approaches presently used in the fabrication of IC. The great importance and advantage of having molecular size computing devices is their ability to interact directly with external agents or molecules producing a sensor device already attached to a nanoprocessor that is able to strongly help in the stand-off detection of chemical and biological agents
Effects of Valence and Divided Attention on Cognitive Reappraisal Processes

Numerous studies have investigated the neural substrates supporting cognitive reappraisal, identifying the importance of cognitive control processes implemented by prefrontal cortex (PFC). This study examined how valence and attention affect the processes used for cognitive reappraisal by asking participants to passively view or to cognitively reappraise positive and negative images with full or divided attention. When participants simply viewed these images, results revealed few effects of valence or attention. However, when participants engaged in reappraisal, there was a robust effect of valence, with the reappraisal of negative relative to positive images associated with more widespread activation, including within regions of medial and lateral PFC. There also was an effect of attention, with more lateral PFC recruitment when regulating with full attention and more medial PFC recruitment when regulating with divided attention. Within two regions of medial PFC and one region of ventrolateral PFC, there was an interaction between valence and attention: in these regions, divided attention reduced activity during reappraisal of positive but not negative images. Critically, participants continued to report reappraisal success even during the Divided Attention condition. These results suggest multiple routes to successful cognitive reappraisal, depending upon image valence and the availability of attentional resources.
REPRODUCTIVE SEQUELAE OF CANCER TREATMENT

Remarkable advances have been made in the treatment of cancers that afflict patients of the reproductive age. Many survivors must now face the effects on gonadal function and have concerns about reproductive capacity. The sequelae of different modalities of cancer therapy specifically addressing surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy on reproductive system are reviewed. Assisted reproductive technologies, prenatal diagnosis methods, and contraception counseling are briefly summarized in conclusion.
Neural Synergy Between Kinetic Vision and Touch

Ambiguous visual information often produces unstable visual perception. In four psychophysical experiments, we found that unambiguous tactile information about the direction of rotation of a globe whose three-dimensional structure is ambiguous significantly influences visual perception of the globe. This disambiguation of vision by touch occurs only when the two modalities are stimulated concurrently, however. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we discovered that touching the rotating globe, even when not looking at it, reliably activates the middle temporal visual area (MT+), a brain region commonly thought to be crucially involved in registering structure from motion. Considered together, our results show that the brain draws on somatosensory information to resolve visual conflict.
Influence of Temperature on Amino Acid Transport by Round Spermatids from Rat Testis

Transport of 114Cl -a-aminoisobutyric acid in vitro by round spermatids from rat testis was found to be more rapid at 34#{176}C than at 37#{176}C and more rapid at 37#{176}C than at 40#{176}C. The difference between values at 34#{176}C and 37#{176}C could be reversed by changing the spermatids from 37#{176}C to 34#{176}C at various times during a total incubation period of 1 h. The effect of 37#{176}C was exerted upon Km for the transport process; Vmax was unaltered. Inhibition by 37#{176}C relative to 34#{176}C was exerted on influx; efflux was the same at both temperatures. A fraction of cells from rat testis enriched in spermatocytes but free from spermatids showed greater transport at 37#{176}C than at 34#{176}C. Of the three systems for transport of amino acids (A, ASC, and L), the temperature effect was observed only with the A system. These results indicate that one metabolic change produced by body temperature (37#{176}C) as opposed to scrotal temperature (34#{176}C) is inhibition of amino acid transport.
Nest predation, food, and female age explain seasonal declines in clutch size

The selection pressures responsible for intra- and interspecific variation in avian clutch size have been debated for over half a century. Seasonal declines in clutch size represent one of the most robust patterns in avian systems, yet despite extensive research on the subject, the mechanisms underlying this pattern remain largely unknown. We tested a combination of experimental and observational predictions to evaluate ten hypotheses, representing both evolutionary and proximate mechanisms proposed to explain seasonal declines in avian clutch size. In line with long held life-history theory, we found strong support for both an evolved and proximate response to food availability for young. We also found evidence consistent with predictions that proximate level experiential nest predation influences seasonal declines in clutch size. Finally, older females appear to invest more in reproduction (initiate nests earlier and lay larger clutches) and choose better territories than younger females. Our results highlight the importance of examining multiple hypotheses in a theoretical context to elucidate the ecological processes underlying commonly observed patterns in life history.
Modeling a harmonic drive gear transmission

In order to capture the dynamic behavior of harmonic drives, dynamic models must include accurate representations of transmission friction, compliance, and kinematic error. Experimental observations are used to guide the development of a model to describe harmonic-drive operation. This model is able to replicate many of the features observed in actual harmonic-drive dynamic response. Valuable insights are gained about the factors which govern harmonic-drive dynamic response. Using these insights to guide the gradual development of a harmonic-drive model, the tradeoffs between model accuracy and complexity are exposed. In particular, despite careful measurement and characterization of transmission friction, compliance, and kinematic error, model performance cannot be improved without acknowledging gear-tooth rubbing losses as well. When a model incorporating gear-tooth behavior is implemented, predicted results reproduce many of the complexities of the experimental dynamic response. >
Impact Of Radical And Incremental Curriculum Changes On Students

College curricula undergo changes periodically. This case discusses the various change management strategies employed by the faculty of a midwestern university in implementing incremental and radical change in the business school curriculum. It also analyzes the impact of these changes on student perceptions of the course and of the instructor. Our analysis reveals interesting trends in student responses over a seven year span. We find that students initially resist both types of changes, although the resistance is greater in the case of radical changes. Nevertheless, they eventually view both types of changes as adding value to the curriculum. However, the perception of value addition is temporary, lasting longer for radical change (seven semesters) than for incremental change (five semesters). This suggests that updating of curricula is required on an ongoing basis.
Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction in Adults with Cerebral Palsy: Outcomes following a Conservative Management Approach

Purpose: Cerebral palsy is characterized by motor impairment following injury to the developing brain. Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction is estimated to affect at least a third of children...
Blue jays, Cyanocitta cristata, devalue social information in uncertain environments

Animals are selective about when to learn by observing others. Models predict that social information becomes less reliable in uncertain environments, and therefore animals should reduce their use of social information in these environments; however, these parameters are often difficult to manipulate and control. We investigated how information reliability and environmental uncertainty affect the use of both social and nonsocial signals. Captive blue jays, Cyanocitta cristata, were given a choice between two perches, one of which was rewarded. Jays could see either a social signal (a conspecific) or a nonsocial signal (a light) that provided some information about the rewarded perch. The nonsocial signal was yoked to the bird that generated the social signal, ensuring the two signals were of identical reliability. We manipulated signal reliability (i.e. the probability that the signal correctly indicated the rewarded perch) and environmental certainty (i.e. the probability that a given perch was rewarded). Qualitatively, jays used both social and nonsocial signals more often when the signals were reliable, and used them less often when environments were predictable. However, jays used social signals less than equally reliable nonsocial signals when environments were unpredictable. Our results suggest that signal reliability and environmental predictability interact to determine signal use, but they do not affect social and nonsocial signals in the same way.
Effects of Temperature and Light Levels on Refuge Use and Activity in the Wolf Spider Rabidosa punctulata

Numerous species reside in habitats that fluctuate widely across a number of environmental conditions. Many of these organisms utilize physiological or behavioral adaptations that allow them to survive in variable environments. Specifically, some wolf spiders commonly use a variety of refuges (e.g. burrows) as a tactic to escape a variety of unsuitable surface conditions, including biotic (e.g. predators) and abiotic factors (e.g. temperature, light, humidity). Here, we investigated the influence of varying temperature and light levels on refuge use and overall activity in the wolf spider Rabidosa punctulata. Our experiment used a fully crossed design varying both temperature (low: 4.4° C vs. high: 26.7° C) and light levels (light vs. dark)(N = 20/treatment). We found that both temperature and light affected spider activity, while only temperature affected burrow use. Spiders were the most active when warm and in the dark, and they were more likely to enter a burrow retreat in the cold. This study provide...
Discrete Time and State Models

All of the previous chapters have considered the development and use of state models for dynamic systems described in terms of differential equations. A number of case study examples have been presented which illustrate the general procedures. In this chapter several models are developed which illustrate the fact that, in certain cases, allowances for changes in the state of a system need be made only at discrete instants in time and that the state itself, as well as the input and output variables, may make discrete changes in their values at these times.
Gene Expression and Functional Changes After Acute Ischemia: Age-Related Differences in Outcome and Mechanisms

Ischemia reperfusion injury to brain is a common process in a number of clinical conditions. Among these conditions are stroke, concussion, and subarachnoid hemorrhage. The ultimate process of postischemic injury remains to be described. Several possible mechanisms have been proposed. Early in the process of reperfusion injury it has been demonstrated tat there is a significant increase in the amount of free radicals generated in the brain [2, 3, 11]. One of the consequences of radical damage is lipid and protein oxidation [4, 12, 14]. Recent studies have demonstrated that this ligandgated channel can be oxidatively modified. One of the most likely ligandgated channel candidate systems for its involvement in postischemic brain damage is the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subtype of the glutamate receptor activated channel. Stimulation of this receptor has been demonstrated to increase the influx of calcium through the NMDA-regulated channel and via other calcium channels [1, 8, 17]. One of the consequences of the sudden increase in intracellular free calcium is the activation of lipases and proteases [1, 2, 36]. Blockade of ligand–regulated and voltage-sensitive calcium channels by different pharmacologic agents prevents ischemia/reperfusion injury [1, 2, 17]. Early in the reperfusion process there is a significant increase in the expression of immediate early genes (IEGs). Among the IEGs expressed, hsp, c-fos and c-jun have been demonstrated to increase following ischemia reperfusion injury.