cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Saddle pulmonary embolism diagnosed by CT angiography: Frequency, clinical features and outcome

Summary Objective To assess the frequency, clinical presentation and outcome associated with saddle pulmonary embolism (PE) diagnosed by computed tomographic angiography (CTA). Patients Retrospective review of 546 consecutive patients diagnosed to have acute PE by CTA from 1 September 2002 to 31 December 2003. Results Fourteen of 546 patients (2.6%) had saddle PE; 10 were men (71%). None of these patients had pre-existing cardiopulmonary disease. Most common presenting symptoms included dyspnea (72%) and syncope (43%). Hypotension was documented in 2 patients (14%). The most common risk factor for PE was obesity (64%). CTA revealed saddle PE and additional filling defects in the main pulmonary arteries in all patients. Echocardiography was performed within 48h of the PE diagnosis in 10 patients and revealed right ventricular dysfunction in 8 (80%). All patients were initially managed in the hospital, median length of stay of 4 days (range, 1–45 days). Standard anticoagulant therapy with heparin and warfarin was administered to all patients. Five patients (36%) received additional therapy; thrombolytic therapy was administered to 1 patient (7%) and 4 patients (29%) received an inferior vena cava filter. None of the patients died during their hospitalization. Four patients (29%) died following their hospitalization after intervals of 1, 5, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Causes of death were known in 3 patients, all of whom died from progressive malignancy. Conclusion Saddle PE in patients without pre-existing cardiopulmonary disease is associated with a relatively low in-hospital mortality rate and may not necessitate aggressive medical management.
Space technology: Landsat: Multispectral eye in the sky: Data collected by the Landsat satellites' remote sensors are exploited in mapping, meteorology, and resource identification

The Landsat system, formerly the Earth Resources Technology Satellite (ERTS), comprises three major components: two spacecraft, remote sensors, and the ground data-handling system. The overall system is designed to perform three functions: the acquisition of multispectral images, the collection of data from the remotely located sensors, and the production of photographic and digital data.
Palaeoclimatological aspects of the synoptic climatology of Keewatin, Northwest territories, Canada

Abstract Mean monthly composite patterns of surface weather anomalies and 700 mbar height anomalies are determined for snowy winters and cool summers in both Keewatin and Labrador-Ungava and also for different positions of the mean 700 mbar trough over eastern Canada. The results indicate that for the selected regimes precipitation anomalies are characteristically of opposite sign in Keewatin and northern Ungava whereas temperature conditions in the two areas are comparable. The implications of the findings are discussed with reference to post-Glacial palynological evidence from Arctic Canada and to the possible conditions favouring inception of glaciation in Keewatin.
Composite rheology — I. Elastomer-filler interaction and its effect on viscosity

Experimental results show that the viscosity of elastomer-filler systems cannot be explained as a simple equation depending only on filler loading, such as in the Einstein or the Guth—Simha—Gold models. The viscosity of elastomer-filler systems also depends on the temperature at which it is measured and the glass transition temperature,Tg, of the basic polymer. This finding seems to suggest two facts: (a) polymer melts are not simple Newtonian fluids but relaxational liquids in which the values of rheological data depend on the experimental observation time (or measured frequency) and temperature, (b) composite materials of elastomer-filler systems, will have the sameTg as the basic polymer if the fillers do not change the main-chain structure of the basic polymer. Therefore, one can conclude that the presence of filler broadens the relaxation spectrum but does not changeTg, and atTg the basic polymer and the composite materials will have the same viscosity. A new model for the viscosity of elastomer-filler systems is developed from the concept of molecular structural relaxation and glass transition temperature of polymers.
Advances in surgical rehabilitation in thyroid eye disease.

Background: Surgery has evolved over the past 20 years. Conceptual and technical advances have helped improve the surgical rehabilitation of Graves' orbitopathy. A historical comparison of methods ...
Photon migration in random media: angle and time-resolved studies

The transport. of photons in random medium were directly studied by measuring the angular and temporal distribution of photons after traversing through a slab of a random medium. The experiments were performed using an ultrafast laser pulse of 100 fs and streak camera detection with a temporal response of 8 ps. When the ultrafast laser pulse traverse through a slab of random medium of less than 10 scattering mean free path thickness, a coherent (ballistic) pulse was found to coexists with a incoherent (diffusive) pulse. The speed of the coherent component of the 100 fS laser pulse reduces as the concentration of the scatterer increases. This reduction in speed may arise from the coherent interference of the multiply scattered waves. The transport of photons was found to deviate from the diffusion approximation when the thickness of the slab is less than 10 transport mean free paths; photons were found to arrive significantly earlier than predicted by the diffusion theory. The theoretical results from the two-frequency coherence function in the Rytov approximation were in qualitative hut not in quantitative agreement with the experimental results. Finally, we show that the ratio of signal (coherent component) to noise (incoherent component) of the light propagating through a random medium can be significantly increased by introducing an absorbing dye. This absorption technique of increasing the signal to noise ratio can improve our capability to image through a random medium.
Starch hydrolysis by Entamoeba histolytica.

Abstract A study of the amylase activity of three strains of Entamoeba histolytica and two reptilian species has been made. Chromatographic studies showed the presence of amylase and maltase but not sucrase or lactase in lyophilized amebal preparations. Factors involved in the utilization of starch by the amebae are discussed.
Nonparametric Bayesian flood frequency estimation

Abstract A novel nonparametric Bayesian Monte-Carlo method is presented to estimate flood frequency. This method accommodates complex flood behaviors such as event clustering (repeated instances of similar magnitude floods) and can use varied data, such as gage and historical peak discharges, and paleohydrologic upper and lower bounds on peak discharge, while rigorously accounting for a wide variety of measurement uncertainties. In contrast to nonparametric kernel estimation approaches, the stochastic assumption is used to generate flood frequency models that span the data and provide about twice the number of degrees of freedom of the data. Each generated flood frequency model is scored using likelihoods that account for data measurement uncertainties. A parametric estimation approach ensures high precision because posterior sampling is known. However, parametric approaches can produce substantial biases because the classes of allowed flood frequency models are restricted. These biases are completely undetectable within a parametric paradigm. The nonparametric approach used here surrenders some precision in the pursuit of reduced bias and greater overall accuracy and assurance; it reveals the annual probabilities where discharge becomes unconstrained by the data, thereby eliminating unsubstantiated extrapolation. Parametric flood frequency estimation introduces strong extrapolation priors that make it difficult, if not impossible, to determine when flood frequency is not longer constrained by the data. Nonparametric and parametric flood frequency estimation using a demonstration data set shows that while parametric functions may sometimes provide reasonable fits to subsets of paleohydrologic data, parametric flood frequency estimates are likely to produce substantial biases over entire log cycles of annual exceedance probability, when using paleohydrologic data spanning thousands of years.
Graded quotients of path algebras: a local theory

Abstract A local theory of graded modules is introduced in this paper. In the case when the graded ring is a quotient ring of a path algebra, it is shown how to retrieve the original algebra from knowledge of the local theory. Almost split sequences are investigated from a local point of view.
Scalp carriage of Pityrosporum species: the effect of physiological maturity, sex and race.

The change in carriage rates of Pityrosporum sp. over the years before and after puberty were studied in caucasoid and negroid children using a semiquantitative cultural technique. Caucasoids yielded yeasts more often than did negroids; older or sexually mature children yielded yeasts more often than did prepubertal children. There appeared to be a decrease in numbers of yeasts isolated a few years after the pubertal peak.
Kinetic mechanism and pH dependence of the kinetic parameters of Pseudomonas aeruginosa phosphomannomutase/phosphoglucomutase.

The enzyme phosphomannomutase/phosphoglucomutase (PMM/PGM) is responsible for the formation of mannose 1-phosphate and glucose 1-phosphate in the human pathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Mannose 1-phosphate and glucose 1-phosphate are required for the biosynthesis of polysaccharides that contribute to the virulence of P. aeruginosa, so inhibitors of PMM/PGM may lead to clinically useful compounds. The V/K values for mannose 6-phosphate and glucose 6-phosphate show that they are equally good substrates for the enzyme. PMM/PGM overexpressed in Escherichia coli is isolated as a phosphoenzyme; surprisingly, mutation of serine 108 where phosphorylation occurs results in phosphorylation of a different residue so that activity is reduced only 20-fold from that of wild-type enzyme. In the reverse reaction glucose 1-phosphate exhibits substrate inhibition, which arises through its competition with the activator glucose 1,6-bisphosphate for binding to dephosphoenzyme. This phenomenon is consistent with a mechanism in which the enzyme phosphorylates the substrate to generate a bisphosphorylated intermediate that reorients in the active site to return its original phosphoryl group to the enzyme and generate the observed product. The pH dependence of the kinetic parameters suggests that the active site contains a residue that serves as a general base in the catalytic reaction and one that acts as a general acid. However, the pK of the general acid is 7.4 and that of the general base is 8.4 so these residues exist in a state of reverse protonation in the active enzyme.
The influence of television coviewing on parent language directed at toddlers

Abstract This study examined parent language directed at 1-year-olds during coviewing of infant-directed television programs, compared to a free play situation with the television off. Parent–child dyads participated in a laboratory no TV, free play session and, during a subsequent visit, viewed an infant-directed video program ( Baby Einstein or Sesame Beginnings ). Quantity of parent language and number of different words used decreased during coviewing as compared to the no-TV free-play session. Nevertheless, during coviewing, although they spoke less, parents used richer vocabulary per utterance as they labeled objects and actions depicted on the program. This increased vocabulary richness continued during a 15-minute post-viewing free play session. Media-use diaries indicated that television coviewing in the home predicted less parent use of language in the laboratory free-play situation without television. Taken together the results indicate that coviewing baby videos decreases the quantity of parent language, but also can increase parent language quality.
The Student Learning Agenda: Implications for Academic Advisors

[George Kuh was the NACADA Journal keynote speaker at the annual conference in Kansas City, MO on October 5, 1997. Some of his ideas were also expressed in a presentation at the 1997 American Assoc...
The Effect of Founding Family Influence on Firm Value and Corporate Governance

We examined a sample of 120 Norwegian, founding family controlled and non-founding family controlled firms, to address two important research questions: (1) is founding family control associated with higher firm value; and (2) are there unique corporate governance conditions under which a founding family controlled firm can be more valuable? We find a positive association between founding family control and firm value for four alternative definitions of founding family control. We find that the association between founding family CEOs and firm value is stronger among younger firms, firms with smaller boards, and firms with a single class of shares. However, the impact of founding family directors on firm value is not affected by corporate governance conditions such as firm age, board independence, and number of share classes. We also find that the relation between founding family ownership and firm value is greater among older firms, firms with larger boards, and particularly when these firms have multiple classes of shares. Our results imply that founding family controlled firms are more valuable and governed differently than firms without such influence. Furthermore, our results also suggest that founding family CEOs can enhance firm performance when family influence does not create shareholder entrenchment or when their cash flow rights are more aligned with their control rights.
A spectral model for turbulence and microphysics dynamics in an ice cloud

A one-dimensional, nine-mode spectral model for temperature, velocity, and the mixing ratios of suspended and precipitating ice-particle components is shown to be consistent with ice-cloud observations. The observations include Doppler radar time-series measurements of a single winter ice cloud and direct measurements of mean particle size vs. icewater content for a set of ice clouds. Fitting of the model to the Doppler vertical-velocity measurements allows a prediction to be made of the vertical scale and turbulent Prandtl number active in the ice-cloud vertical motions. The model is then used to explore the question of how turbulence and gravity-wave motions affect the microphysical properties of an ice cloud. The model predicts interesting dynamical effects on the mixing ratios due to these motions, but no significant effects on the time-averaged microphysical quantities.
DNA minor groove-binding ligands: a different class of mammalian DNA topoisomerase I inhibitors

Abstract A number of DNA minor groove-binding ligands (MGBLs) are known to exhibit antitumor and antimicrobial activities. We show that DNA topoisomerase (Topo) I may be a pharmacological target of MGBLs. In the presence of calf thymus Topo I, MGBLs induced limited but highly specific single-strand DNA breaks. The 3' ends of the broken DNA strands are covalently linked to Topo I polypeptides. Protein-linked DNA breaks are readily reversed by a brief heating to 65 degrees C or the addition of 0.5 M NaCl. These results suggest that MGBLs, like camptothecin, abort Topo I reactions by trapping reversible cleavable complexes. The sites of cleavage induced by MGBLs are distinctly different from those induced by camptothecin. Two of the major cleavage sites have been sequenced and shown to be highly A + T-rich, suggesting the possible involvement of a Topo I-drug-DNA ternary complex at the sites of cleavage. Different MGBLs also exhibit varying efficiency in inducing Topo I-cleavable complexes, and the order of efficiency is as follows: Hoechst 33342 and 33258 >> distamycin A > berenil > netropsin. The lack of correlation between DNA binding and cleavage efficiency suggest that, in addition to binding to the minor grooves of DNA, MGBLs must also interact with Topo I in trapping Topo I-cleavable complexes.
Constitutional Theories and Constitutional Rights: Federalist Considerations

This article examines the contemporary controversy over constitutional interpretation and the differing understandings of constitutional rights that underlie it. We first consider the character and basis for interpretivism, that is, a jurisprudence that delineates rights by reference to the intent of the founders and to the constitutional text. Next, we review the non-interpretivist alternative, focusing on Ronald Dworkin's influential account of constitutional rights. We conclude that despite its strengths, Dworkin 'sposition does justice neither to the constitutional text nor to the connection between structure and rights in the United States Constitution. Finally, considering constitutional theoryfrom the broader perspective of state constitutionalism, we conclude that its insights are limited to the U.S. Constitution and offer some suggestions for a more adequate constitutional theory.
A note on analytic capacity

Let K be a 2-dimensional Cantor set. In this note we prove, in two cases, the analytic capacity and the continuous analytic capacity of K are equal.
Isothermal self-similar blast wave theory of supernova remnants driven by relativistic gas pressure

We investigate the spherically symmetric, self-similar flow behind a blast wave from a point explosion in a medium whose density varies with distance asr−ω with the assumption that the flow is both isothermal and contains a relativistic component of pressure. A self-similar solution is shown to exist only if both the blast wave speed,u s ,and the local sound speed,w, are constant. If Ω[≡ω(1−w2/c2)] lies in 1>Ω>0, there exists a critical point in the radial distance-flow velocity plane. To be physically acceptable, the solution must pass through the origin and through the critical point and then through to the blast front; solution branches between these points exist, although a proper connection at the critical point has not been demonstrated. If Ω Ω>1, the critical point is beyond the blast curve and the flow is subsonic everywhere. For 2 Ω>3/2 or 0 Ω>1 unless the flow meets the blast front atprecisely the velocity (normalized) of (2Ω−1)1/2/(3−2Ω)1/2. The solutions are also unstable for all Ω in 1>Ω>0 near the critical point. Since there is no characteristic time scale in the system, all the instabilities grow as a power law in time rather than exponentially. The existence of these instabilities implies that initial deviations do not decay and the system does not tend to a self-similar form. We conclude that isothermal self-similar blast waves do not provide a valid model for a supernova remnant driven by a relativistic gas pressure. Since the validity of the adiabatic blast wave models has elsewhere been shown to be questionable, it is doubtful whether the self-similar property can be involved at all in the case of supernova remnants. This raises serious questions of interpretation of quantities deduced for supernova remnants on the basis of the use of self-similar models.
Constant voltage 'Iron'tophoresis.

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of rapid administration of iron via transdermal route as an alternative to parenteral route of administration. In vitro drug delivery studies were carried out using porcine epidermis mounted on Franz diffusion cells. The effect of chemical permeation enhancers and physical techniques (constant voltage iontophoresis, electroporation and combination of electroporation with iontophoresis) on the transport of ferric pyrophosphate (FPP) was studied. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and electrical resistance were measured in order to see the effect of these techniques on the skin barrier function. The amount of FPP permeated was not enhanced significantly with the use of any of the enhancers (P > 0.05). It was found that constant voltage iontophoresis (0.5, 2 or 4 V) for about 30 min across electroporated epidermis (120 V, 100 pulses, 10 ms at 5 Hz) enhanced the delivery of FPP over control in the range of 2- to 42-fold. Hence, a therapeutically req...
Validation of the Simplified Motor Score for the Prediction of Brain Injury Outcomes After Trauma

Study objective The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score is widely used in the initial evaluation of patients with traumatic brain injury. This 15-point score, however, has been criticized as unnecessarily complex. Recently, a 3-point Simplified Motor Score (defined as obeys commands=2; localizes pain=1; withdrawals to pain or worse=0) was developed from the motor component of the GCS and was found to have a similar test performance for predicting outcomes after traumatic brain injury when compared with the GCS score as the criterion standard. The purpose of this study was to validate the Simplified Motor Score in a large heterogeneous trauma population. Methods This was a secondary analysis of a prospectively maintained trauma registry with consecutive trauma patients who presented to a Level I trauma center from 1995 through 2004. Test performance of the GCS and the Simplified Motor Score relative to 4 clinically relevant traumatic brain injury outcomes (emergency intubation, clinically significant brain injury, neurosurgical intervention, and mortality) was evaluated with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs). Results Of 21,170 patients included in the analysis, 18% underwent emergency intubation, 14% had clinically significant brain injuries, 7% underwent neurosurgical intervention, and 5% died. The AUCs for the GCS and its components ranged from 0.76 to 0.92 across the 4 outcome measures. The AUCs for the Simplified Motor Score ranged from 0.71 to 0.89, and the relative differences from the GCS AUCs ranged from 3% to 7%, with a median difference of 5%. Conclusion In this external validation study, the 3-point Simplified Motor Score demonstrated similar test performance when compared with the 15-point GCS score and its components for the prediction of 4 clinically important traumatic brain injury outcomes.
The Intertwined Roles of Transcription and Repair Proteins

Transcription is apparently risky business. Its intrinsic mutagenic potential must be kept in check by networks of DNA repair factors that monitor the transcription process to repair DNA lesions that could otherwise compromise transcriptional fidelity and genome integrity. Intriguingly, recent studies point to an even more direct function of DNA repair complexes as coactivators of transcription and the unexpected role of "scheduled" DNA damage/repair at gene promoters. Paradoxically, spontaneous DNA double-strand breaks also induce ectopic transcription that is essential for repair. Thus, transcription, DNA damage, and repair may be more physically and functionally intertwined than previously appreciated.
THE RESIDUAL BOUNDS OF FINITE ALGEBRAS

We exhibit, for every finite cardinal λ≥3 and also for each of λ=ω, ω1, (2ω)+, a fourelement algebra that generates a precisely residually < λ variety. We exhibit an eight-element simple algebra with eight operations that is inherently non-finitely-based and generates a precisely residually countable variety.
An optical chopper for generation of short X-ray pulses to allow in-house time-resolved photocrystallography. Corrigendum

In the paper by Kaminski et al. [J. Appl. Cryst. (2014), 47, 1765–1768], Jason B. Benedict is missing from the list of authors. The complete list of authors should be Radoslaw Kaminski, Jason B. Benedict, Gary Nottingham and Philip Coppens.
Democracy Ancient and Modern

With the collapse of communism and consequent disrepute of Marxism, there is a danger that liberalism will overwhelm democracy and that liberal political theory will become hegemonic despite the efforts of “communitarians” and postmodernists. I want to suggest that, given these developments, Athenian democracy and classical political theory read in its terms is a worthy political and theoretical interlocutor for both. (For a more detailed argument see the “Introduction” to Euben, Ober, and Wallach 1993.) This is not to engage in yet more polis envy, indulge in yet more Hellenic romanticism about “The Glory That Was Greece,” or endorse the uncritical worship of “great books.” My aim, rather, is to avoid the self-congratulation, complacency, and presentism that too often attends “our victory” in the Cold War and to make a contribution to the ensuing debate about American political identity. As this suggests, my concerns here are partly political. I want to indicate the strategies by which “Athenian democracy” is delegitimated as a challenge to contemporary democracy and question the way classical political theory is used to legitimate an antidemocratic political and educational agenda. That democratic Athens should be understood in terms of contemporary political controversies is nothing new. The Federalist Papers used it as an object lesson by which to justify limiting democracy in the name of republicanism, and debates over reform of the British Parliament and French Revolution found conservatives criticizing the politics of their own day in terms of the putative excesses of democratic Athens, much as Allan Bloom has done in our own time (Turner 1981, chaps. 1 and 5).
Older Consumer Responses to Marketing Stimuli: The Power of Subjective Age

ABSTRACT Subjective age has been an important construct in studies of older consumers. The present study builds upon previous research by providing theory-based consumer behavior consequences of subjective age. Using both empirical and humanistic designs, the study examines the influence of subjective age on various old age–appropriate consumer behaviors, interest in age-segmented stimuli (senior discounts), and responses to old-age stereotypes in advertisements. The study findings suggest implications for theory and practice. Directions for future research are also suggested.
The design and engineering of nucleic acid nanoscale assemblies

It is possible to design DNA molecules that can form unusual structures and topologies. Stable DNA-branched junctions have been used to construct polyhedral catenated molecules with the connectivities of a cube and of a truncated octahedron. The truncated octahedron has been constructed following a solid-support-based methodology. Branched-DNA molecules are flexible, suggesting that triangular and deltahedral DNA objects should be favored as the components of two- and three-dimensional nucleic acid arrays. DNA polyhedra are complex catenanes. The engineering of single-stranded DNA knots and catenanes exploits the fact that a node can be equated with a half-turn of DNA.
Dry-etching and characterization of mirrors on III-nitride laser diodes from chemically assisted ion beam etching

Abstract Vertical mirrors have been fabricated with chemically assisted ion beam etching (CAIBE) on OMVPE grown InGaN/AlGaN laser diode structures. AFM measurements show that smooth vertical sidewalls are obtained which exhibit a root mean squared (rms) roughness of only 40–60 A. The inclination angle of the etched mirrors is within ±2° of vertical, as SEM studies indicate. Photopumping measurements reveal that the reflectivity of the etched mirrors corresponds to 60–70% of the value for an ideal GaN/air interface. The reduced reflectivity may be due to surface roughness, a slight tilt in the facet angle, and the excitation of higher-order transverse waveguide modes in the laser structure.
Laser capture microdissection analysis reveals frequent allelic losses in papillary urothelial neoplasm of low malignant potential of the urinary bladder.

BACKGROUND In the 1999 World Health Organization classification system, papillary tumors of the urinary bladder were classified as papilloma, papillary urothelial neoplasm of low malignant potential (PUNLMP), and as Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 urothelial carcinoma. The biologic potential of PUNLMP of the urinary bladder is controversial. To the authors' knowledge, information regarding the genetic changes of PUNLMP tumors of the bladder is limited. METHODS The authors examined loss of heterogygosity (LOH) at 5 polymorphic microsatellite markers on chromosome 9q32–33 (D9S177), 9p22 (IFNA), 17p13.1 (TP53), 12q14–24 (D12S1051), and 3p25–26 (D3S3050) from 26 patients who were diagnosed with PUNLMP tumors of the urinary bladder. Tumors were microdissected from sections prepared from formalin-fixed, paraffin-processed tissue specimens using laser capture microdissection. RESULTS LOH was found in 21 of 26 (81%) patients with PUNLMP. The rate of LOH was 41% with D9S177, 32% with IFNA, 29% with TP53, 26% with D12S1051, and 44% with D3S3050. Allelic loss of multiple chromosome loci was often present in patients with PUNLMP tumors. CONCLUSIONS Genetic changes that commonly occur in advanced bladder carcinoma (≥ pT2) are frequently found in PUNLMP of the urinary bladder. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Interlanguage Refusals: Linguistic Politeness and Length of Residence in the Target Community.

Using role play and verbal-report data, this study investigates the sequential organization of politeness strategies of 24 learners of Spanish and whether the learners’ ability to negotiate and mitigate a refusal was influenced by length of residence in the target community. Refusal sequences were examined throughout the interaction (head acts, pre- and postrefusals) and across conversational turns. Results showed more frequent attempts at negotiation and greater use of lexical and syntactic mitigation among learners who had spent more time in the target community and also revealed a preference for solidarity and indirectness, which approximated native Spanish speaker norms. It is suggested that the variables of proficiency and length of residence should be considered independently. Finally, learners’ perceptions of social status are discussed.
The use of positron emission tomographic scanning in epilepsy

Positron emission tomography (PET) with fluorine-18-labeled fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG) has demonstrated the epileptogenic lesion in partial epilepsy to be hypometabolic interictally . This finding is useful for localizing the area of resection when surgical therapy is contemplated. 18FDG scans during partial seizures show increased metabolism in areas of ictal onset and spread and in other regions of decreased metabolism that could reflect postictal effects. In the generalized epilepsies, petit mal absences and generalized convulsions induced by electroconvulsive shock therapy (ECT) are associated with global hypermetabolism, while global hypometabolism is seen in the postictal period following ECT. More information about the factors that influence the interictal hypometabolic zone in partial epilepsy should improve the diagnostic value of this finding for presurgical localization and perhaps also for the evaluation of other therapeutic regimens. New techniques for more dynamic PET studies with improved resolution, combined with computerized electroencephalographic analysis, should allow more accurate interpretation of ictal, as well as interictal, phenomena. Application of PET technology to other paroxysmal disorders may provide a basis for new diagnostic classifications that have therapeutic and prognostic value and may allow clearer differentiation among epileptic phenomena, myoclonus, and movement disorders. More clinical and animal research is needed, however, before we can delineate fundamental mechanisms of human epilepsy from PET data. To this end, it is now possible to use combined multidisciplinary parallel approaches in patients and animals to define specific aspects of epileptic disorders clinically, to intensively investigate them with experimental models in the animal laboratory, and to verify the relevance of these experimental results by returning to clinical studies.
Comparison of noise tolerant precharge (NTP) to conventional feedback keepers for dynamic logic

Dynamic logic requires some sort of keeper to prevent the output node from floating and to provide acceptable noise immunity. A number of recent papers have advocated using a very weak complementary pMOS network in place of the conventional feedback keeper; such a technique is called Noise-Tolerant Precharge (NTP). This paper compares the delay and noise margin of NTP with conventional feedback keepers. Although NTP is more robust in that it can recover from a dynamic noise event, it is also 5-50% slower than conventional feedback keepers with the same static noise margin.
Estimation of Suspended‐Sediment Concentration From Total Suspended Solids and Turbidity Data for Kentucky, 1978‐19951

Williamson, Tanja N. and Charles G. Crawford, 2011. Estimation of Suspended-Sediment Concentration From Total Suspended Solids and Turbidity Data for Kentucky, 1978-1995. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 47(4):739-749. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-1688.2011.00538.x Abstract: Suspended sediment is a constituent of water quality that is monitored because of concerns about accelerated erosion, nonpoint contamination of water resources, and degradation of aquatic environments. In order to quantify the relationship among different sediment parameters for Kentucky streams, long-term records were obtained from the National Water Information System of the U.S. Geological Survey. Suspended-sediment concentration (SSC), the parameter traditionally measured and reported by the U.S. Geological Survey, was statistically compared to turbidity and total suspended solids (TSS), two parameters that are considered surrogate data. A linear regression of log-transformed observations was used to estimate SSC from TSS; 72% of TSS observations were less than coincident SSC observations; however, the estimated SSC values were almost as likely to be overestimated as underestimated. The SSC-turbidity relationship also used log-transformed observations, but required a nonlinear, breakpoint regression that separated turbidity observations ≤6 nephelometric turbidity units. The slope for these low turbidity values was not significantly different than zero, indicating that low turbidity observations provide no real information about SSC; in the case of the Kentucky sediment record, this accounts for 30% of the turbidity observations.
Pyro: A python-based versatile programming environment for teaching robotics

In this article we describe a programming framework called Pyro, which provides a set of abstractions that allows students to write platform-independent robot programs. This project is unique because of its focus on the pedagogical implications of teaching mobile robotics via a top-down approach. We describe the background of the project, its novel abstractions, its library of objects, and the many learning modules that have been created from which curricula for different types of courses can be drawn. Finally, we explore Pyro from the students' perspective in a case study.
Application of double-clad fiber to diode-pumped femtosecond Cr:forsterite laser

We describe a femtosecond Cr:forsterite laser pumped by a high-power diode bar through a double-clad laser fiber that effectively conditions the output of the diode bar while shifting the wavelength to an absorption band of the Cr/sup 4+/ ion. Mode-locking is initiated and stabilized by a semiconductor saturable absorber.
AN EVOLUTIONARY GAME‐THEORETIC MODEL OF CANNIBALISM

Cannibalism, which functions as a life history trait in at least 1300 species of both invertebrates and vertebrates, plays important ecological and evolutionary roles in populations. During times of low resource availability, cannibalism of juveniles by adults can redirect reproductive energy to times of higher resource availability. For example, prolonged increases in sea surface temperature depress marine food webs and lead to increased egg cannibalism among glaucous-winged gulls (Larus glaucescens); consumption of a single cannibalized egg provides almost half the daily energy needs for an adult gull. Motivated by the glaucous-winged gull system, we use matrix models and bifurcation theory to investigate population and evolutionary dynamic consequences of adult-on-juvenile cannibalism. We show that in the presence of cannibalism, a population can survive under circumstances of low resource availability which, in the absence of cannibalism, lead to extinction. The evolutionary version of the model shows that cannibalism can be an evolutionarily stable strategy.
Multi-user frequency-domain channel identification, interference suppression, and equalization for time-varying broadband wireless communications

In a mobile broadband wireless communication system, an adaptive antenna array can be used to equalize and demodulate multiple users' signals while suppressing interference. In a broadband mobile system operating at 2 GHz or higher, there is a strong potential for severe levels of time and frequency selectivity, which must be accurately tracked for proper multi-user demodulation and interference suppression. We present new frequency-domain techniques that allow for multi-user demodulation even in the presence of high levels of frequency selectivity, and severe time variations across a data block (where a data block is defined to be a group of samples that are FFTd into the frequency domain). These techniques include a time-varying multi-user channel estimation process and a frequency-domain adaptive antenna combining algorithm. The efficacy of the channel estimator and adaptive antenna combining algorithm is demonstrated through simulation results.
Stability of linear time varying multiple input multiple output continuous time learning control systems: a sufficient condition

Repeated accurate path tracking has many control applications. Manufacturing CNC machines or cycling actuators are examples. Effectiveness is limited to model accuracy, and complete information is not always available. Also, parameters may drift over time. Repeated operations permits control signal adjustments between cycles using trajectory error information. Learning systems are well suited for this situation. This paper proposes a sufficient condition for stability of linear time varying multiple input multiple output (MIMO) learning control systems. >
Of “mice” and mammals: utilizing classical inbred mice to study the genetic architecture of function and performance in mammals

Synopsis The house mouse is one of the most successful mammals and the premier research animal in mammalian biology. The classical inbred strains of house mice have been artificially modified to facilitate identification of the genetic factors underlying phenotypic variation among these strains. Despite their widespread use in basic and biomedical research, functional and evolutionary morphologists have not taken full advantage of inbred mice as a model for studying the genetic architecture of form, function, and performance in mammals. We illustrate the potential of inbred mice as a model for mammalian functional morphology by examining the genetic architecture of maximum jaw-opening performance, or maximum gape, across 21 classical inbred strains. We find that variation in maximum gape among these strains is heritable, providing the first evidence of a genetic contribution to maximum jaw-opening performance in mammals. Maximum gape exhibits a significant genetic correlation with body size across strains, raising the possibility that evolutionary increases in size frequently resulted in correlated increases in maximum gape (within the constraints of existing craniofacial form) during mammalian evolution. Several craniofacial features that influence maximum gape share significant phenotypic and genetic correlations with jaw-opening ability across these inbred strains. The significant genetic correlations indicate the potential for coordinated evolution of craniofacial form and jaw-opening performance, as hypothesized in several comparative analyses of mammals linking skull form to variation in jaw-opening ability. Functional studies of mammalian locomotion and feeding have only rarely examined the genetic basis of functional and performance traits. The classical inbred strains of house mice offer a powerful tool for exploring this genetic architecture and furthering our understanding of how form, function, and performance have evolved in mammals.
The Commitment Process in a Religious Commune: The Shakers

Focusing on the Shakers and using census data, this paper quantitatively examines influences on religious commitment and the way these influences differed between new and veteran members. Whereas personal characteristics (age, sex, nativity, and occupation) were the primary sources of influence on the commitment of veteran members, new recruits were also influenced by interpersonal and organizational factors (kinship ties, social bonds, and membership in leading groups). The differential effect of influences on commitment illustrates the nature of the commitment process in a religious commune.
Movement in ribosome translocation.

Translocation of peptidyl-tRNA and mRNA within the ribosome during protein synthesis is promoted by the elongation factor EF-G and by the hydrolysis of GTP. A new study reports that EF-G binds to ribosomes as an EF-G•GDP complex and that GTP is exchanged for GDP on the ribosome. Together with cryo-electron microscopy, this unexpected finding helps clarify the role of GTP in translocation.
Sample Sizes When Using Multiple Linear Regression for Prediction

When using multiple regression for prediction purposes, the issue of minimum required sample size often needs to be addressed. Using a Monte Carlo simulation, models with varying numbers of independent variables were examined and minimum sample sizes were determined for multiple scenarios at each number of independent variables. The scenarios arrive from varying the levels of correlations between the criterion variable and predictor variables as well as among predictor variables. Two minimum sample sizes were determined for each scenario, a good and an excellent prediction level. The relationship between the squared multiple correlation coefficients and minimum necessary sample sizes were examined. A definite relationship, similar to a negative exponential relationship, was found between the squared multiple correlation coefficient and the minimum sample size. As the squared multiple correlation coefficient decreased, the sample size increased at an increasing rate. This study provides guidelines for sample size needed for accurate predictions.
3-D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling for the transport of chemotherapeutic drugs in the human brain

A three dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model of the Fall Cerebri and a composite cylinder representing gray matter and white matter of the human brain is developed to predict the transport of interstitial infusion of chemotherapeutic drugs. Brain tissues are treated as porous media and characterized by the porosity and the resistance coefficient. White matter, which is anisotropic in nature due to the presence of axon fibers, has different properties in longitudinal and transverse directions. Anisotropy has been defined as the ratio of resistance coefficients in longitudinal and transverse directions. The transport of the drug in white and gray matter is governed by convection and/or diffusion. Temporal and spatial mass concentration of the drug is determined in each case. It was observed that bulk flow or convection enhanced delivery (CED) was more effective for the increase of mass concentration and penetration of the drug molecules into the brain. Also, in white matter penetration of the drug molecules in the fiber direction was greater than penetration in the transverse direction. Obtaining an analytical solution will be incorporated in the next phase of the research.
Sulfur isotope variability in biogenic pyrite; reflections of heterogeneous bacterial colonization?

The top 20 cm of sediments at active cold seeps in Monterey Bay, coastal California, contain framboidal pyrite that occurs as infillings and pseudomorphs of the chambers of the tests of foraminifera and rarely as irregularly shaped grains. Sulfur isotope compositions obtained with the ion microprobe show depletions in 34 S( d 34 S 52 41 to 25‰, CDT), and large variations both within and among these pyrite grains. Intergranular differences in d 34 S values in the same sediment are as large as 35‰, and intragranular zoning reaches 15‰. Zoning is regular in some grains, with systematic isotope changes from core to rim or from one foraminiferal chamber to another, but irregular in others. The regular zoning is consistent with an increase in 34 S through time. Backscattered-electron imaging reveals three types of pyrite: isolated framboids in a porous aggregation (‘‘PF-pyrite’’), agglomerated framboids with cementing interstitial pyrite (‘‘F 1I-pyrite’’), and recrystallized pyrite with isolated relicts of framboids (‘‘RF-pyrite’’). In individual grains, RF-pyrite cores grade into F1I-pyrite toward grain rims, and F1I-pyrite grades into PF-pyrite at the grain edges. These textures are consistent with a paragenetic sequence whereby framboids first agglomerate (PF-pyrite), then cement (F1I-pyrite), and finally recrystallize (RF-pyrite). The d 34 S values of RF-pyrite are generally lower than that of F1I-pyrite; if the paragenetic sequence is correct, then this trend parallels the regular core-rim isotopic zoning observed in some grains. The implied increase in d 34 S with time is consistent with Rayleigh fractionation of sulfur in a closed system. Bacteria are intimately involved in the production of pyrite from our samples, and heterogeneous colonization by bacteria provides a simple explanation for the sulfur isotope heterogeneity among and within grains: The foraminifera provide open space for colonization and local nutrients for bacterial growth, whereas the cell walls of the bacteria may provide a local nucleation site for sulfides. If so, then initial colonization is reflected in lower d 34 S values, whereas later bacterial emigration to other foraminifera chambers is indicated by higher d 34 S values.
The Role of Higher Education Associations in Shaping Policy That Connects Immigration to Educational Opportunity: A Social Capital Framework:

This study utilizes social capital theory to examine the collective agency available to national higher education associations and better understand the power of the collectivity to influence policy. The analysis draws on a specific issue, the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act, and investigates letters and statements submitted by associations to members of Congress in support of this policy between 2006 and 2009. The findings suggest that characteristics unique to this community enhance their ability to influence educational policy.
Two-dimensional Fast Surface Imaging Using a Handheld Optical Device: In Vitro and In Vivo Fluorescence Studies

Near-infrared (NIR) optical imaging is a noninvasive and nonionizing modality that is emerging as a diagnostic tool for breast cancer. The handheld optical devices developed to date using the NIR technology are predominantly developed for spectroscopic applications. A novel handheld probe-based optical imaging device has been recently developed toward area imaging and tomography applications. The three-dimensional (3D) tomographic imaging capabilities of the device have been demonstrated from previous fluorescence studies on tissue phantoms. In the current work, fluorescence imaging studies are performed on tissue phantoms, in vitro , and in vivo tissue models to demonstrate the fast two-dimensional (2D) surface imaging capabilities of this flexible handheld-based optical imaging device, toward clinical breast imaging studies. Preliminary experiments were performed using target(s) of varying volume (0.23 and 0.45 cm 3 ) and depth (1–2 cm), using indocyanine green as the fluorescence contrast agent in liquid phantom, in vitro , and in vivo tissue models. The feasibility of fast 2D surface imaging (∼5 seconds) over large surface areas of 36 cm 2 was demonstrated from various tissue models. The surface images could differentiate the target(s) from the background, allowing a rough estimate of the target's location before extensive 3D tomographic analysis (future studies).