cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Allocation of Sample Size to Strata and Related Problems

In this paper, we shall study an alternative method of deriving Neyman's Optimum allocation of sample size to strata for simple random sampling which is intuitive and simple. In order to obtain this allocation, the within stratum standard deviations of the study variate are required which are unknown and hence are substituted by known quantities. We shall discuss the effects of deviations from the optimum allocation and other related problems.
H Guide with Laminated Dielectric Slab

A consideration of the field distribution and the characteristics of an H guide with a laminated dielectric bar composed of an arbitrary number of dielectric strips separated by air layers is presented. Low-loss wave modes with the electric field intensity predominantly parallel to the sidewalls are analyzed. Approximate thin-layer equations are derived which indicate methods for improvements of the attenuation of the H guide.
Job stress management and ergonomic intervention for work-related upper extremity symptoms

In practice the secondary prevention of work-related upper extremity (WRUE) symptoms generally targets biomechanical risk factors. Psychosocial risk factors have also been shown to play an important role in the development of WRUE symptom severity and future disability. The addition of a stress management component to biomechanically focused interventions may result in greater improvements in WRUE symptoms and functional limitations than intervening in the biomechanical risk factors alone. Seventy office workers with WRUE symptoms were randomly assigned to an ergonomics intervention group (assessment and modification of work station and stretching exercises) or a combined ergonomic and job stress intervention group (ergonomic intervention plus two 1-h workshops on the identification and management of workplace stress). Baseline, 3- and 12-month follow-up measures of observed ergonomic risks and self-reported ergonomic risks, job stress, pain, symptoms, functional limitation, and general physical and mental health were obtained from all participants. While both groups experienced significant decreases in pain, symptoms, and functional limitation from baseline to three months with improvements continuing to 12 months post baseline, no significant differences between groups were observed for any outcome measures. Findings indicate that the additional two-session job stress management component did not significantly enhance the short- or long-term improvements brought about by the ergonomic intervention alone.
Joint Deconvolution and Classification for Signals with Multipath

For many sensing modalities such as sonar, received signals are corrupted by multipath and can be challenging for automatic classification systems. An approach to jointly deconvolve and classify such signals is proposed. Specifically, a filter is estimated that minimizes the distortion between the received signal and a set of training signals, then the received signal is assigned to the class that corresponds to the training signal whose estimated filter is most sparse. Simulations compare the new method with blind deconvolution using Cabrelli's algorithm followed by a correlation-based nearest neighbor classifier. Results indicate that joint deconvolution and classification performs similarly to blind deconvolution in the presence of severe noise, and outperforms blind deconvolution at low and moderate noise levels.
Reconstruction of high-resolution ocean wind vectors from low-resolution scatterometer measurements

Designed to retrieve near-surface winds over the ocean, the SeaWinds scatterometer makes 13.4 GHz Ku-band measurements of the normalized radar backscatter of the Earth's surface from which the near-surface vector (speed and direction) wind is estimated. Conventional processing of the backscatter measurements results in 25 km resolution winds. However, by applying reconstruction algorithms the backscatter can be estimated at much finer resolution, albeit at reduced accuracy. This innovative application of reconstruction theory has a number of novel elements including irregular sampling, a two dimensional vector signal, multiplicative and additive noise, and a nonlinear transfer function between the measurements and the signal. This paper describes the high resolution wind retrieval problem, the solution approaches adopted, and sample results.© (2004) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Cocaine dependent individuals discount future rewards more than future losses for both cocaine and monetary outcomes

Cocaine dependence and other forms of drug dependence are associated with steeper devaluation of future outcomes (delay discounting). Although studies in this domain have typically assessed choices between monetary gains (e.g., receive less money now versus receive more money after a delay), delay discounting is also applicable to decisions involving losses (e.g., small loss now versus larger delayed loss), with gains typically discounted more than losses (the "sign effect"). It is also known that drugs are discounted more than equivalently valued money. In the context of drug dependence, however, relatively little is known about the discounting of delayed monetary and drug losses and the presence of the sign effect. In this within-subject, laboratory study, delay discounting for gains and losses was assessed for cocaine and money outcomes in cocaine-dependent individuals (n=89). Both cocaine and monetary gains were discounted at significantly greater rates than cocaine and monetary losses, respectively (i.e., the sign effect). Cocaine gains were discounted significantly more than monetary gains, but cocaine and monetary losses were discounted similarly. Results suggest that cocaine is discounted by cocaine-dependent individuals in a systematic manner similar to other rewards. Because the sign effect was shown for both cocaine and money, delayed aversive outcomes may generally have greater impact than delayed rewards in shaping present behavior in this population.
Malabsorption of phosphate by the intestines of young X-linked hypophosphatemic mice.

X-linked hypophosphatemic (Hyp) mice are a model for human X-linked (familial) hypophosphatemia (vitamin D-resistant rickets). In several studies, Hyp mice have been shown to exhibit either normal intestinal phosphate absorption or malabsorption of phosphate. These apparently conflicting reports led us to further investigate intestinal phosphate absorption. Isolated intestinal segmentsin vivo were used in C57BL/6J normal and Hyp mice, both male and female.33P was placed in the segment in 2 mM Na2HPO4+150 mM NaCl, pH 7.2. Mice at 4, 7, and 12 weeks of age were used. No significant differences in phosphate absorption were found between the sexes. At 4 weeks of age, Hyp mice showed significant malabsorption of phosphate, with the jejunum being the most severely affected. Malabsorption was judged by significantly more33P remaining in the lumen, less in the intestinal tissue, and less in the plasma. At 7 weeks of age, these same trends were seen but at a nonsignificant level. By the 12th week of life, the absorption of33P was similar in Hyp and normal mice. Thus, phosphate malabsorption in Hyp mice is an age-related phenomena. These changes parallel the malabsorption of calcium in young Hyp mice and reflect the lowered plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) levels of young Hyp mice.
Onsager reaction terms for quantum many-body systems: Application to antiferromagnetic and superconducting order in the Hubbard model

We demonstrate that an expansion in powers of the strength of the interaction, of the free energy at fixed order parameter, can be used to generate and correct mean-field theories for interacting quantum many-body systems. The first two terms in the expansion generally yield ordinary Hartree-Fock mean-field theory and the next term gives an ``Onsager reaction field'' correction to Hartree-Fock theory. This method can be used to directly generate expansions for inverse susceptibilities. We illustrate the method for the one- and two-dimensional Hubbard model, for which we consider corrections to mean-field theories of antiferromagnetism for the repulsive-U half-filled case and superconductivity in the attractive-U case. These corrections give a quantitative account superior to that of the random-phase approximation (RPA) for the correlation energy at small and intermediate values of U. For susceptibilities, we recover from the first two terms in the expansion the usual RPA results, while higher-order terms give systematic corrections to the RPA susceptibilities. For the case of superconductivity in the repulsive-U Hubbard model, we show that the higher-order terms in the expansion must be considered to determine whether or not an instability exists. We find that there is no superconducting instability in the repulsive-U case, at least towards ordinary singlet or triplet pairing. We also find no evidence for a superconducting instability driven by a coexisting antiferromagnetic order.
Previous exposure to VTA amphetamine enhances cocaine self-administration under a progressive ratio schedule in an NMDA, AMPA/kainate, and metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent manner.

Previous Exposure to VTA Amphetamine Enhances Cocaine Self-Administration under a Progressive Ratio Schedule in an NMDA, AMPA/Kainate, and Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor-Dependent Manner
Analytic characterization of the permeability of dual-scale fibrous porous media

Abstract It has been known for some time now that fabrics that contain fiber tows, which are bundles of thousands of aligned fiber filaments, can be represented as dual-scale porous media; these tows are woven or stitched together and the flow through the resulting fabrics can be modeled to account for the delayed impregnation of tows, which draw fluid away from the advancing flow front. From such flow simulations, one can predict not only the macroflow front, but also the saturation of the fiber tows, as well as determine the partially-saturated region. The simulations require one to input two material parameters to quantify the two distinct length scales of the porous media: the bulk permeability, which characterizes the overall resistance to the flow, and the tow permeability, which is the resistance to the flow within the tow and is related to the saturation of the fiber tows. Techniques to characterize the bulk permeability are well established and can be performed in one, two, and three dimensions; however, methods to measure tow permeability are sparse. Hence, an analytical model is developed to characterize both permeability values: the bulk permeability ( K ) and the fiber tow permeability ( K t ) from a one-dimensional constant flow rate experiment in which the inlet pressure profile during the filling is recorded. These two permeability values determine the time scales of resin impregnation in between the fiber tows and within the fiber tows thus playing an important role in the decision process of how long to leave the resin injection gate open to ensure filling of the fiber tows. For dual-scale preforms, the inlet pressure profile for a constant rate injection is not only dependant on the structure of the preform and fluid viscosity, but also on the mold length. If the mold is sufficiently long, it can be mathematically proven that the partially-saturated region is constant. Examination of the solution also reveals that the partially-saturated length increases as the bulk permeability increases and as the tow permeability decreases. The analytical methodology is demonstrated by characterizing four different fabrics.
Bullous pemphigoid antigen: cDNA cloning, cellular expression, and evidence for polymorphism of the human gene

Abstract A human epidermal keratinocyte λgt11 recombinant cDNa library was screened with a 0.45-kb cDNA that was generated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of a segment of human bullous pemphigoid (BP) antigen mRNA. The screen yielded five clones, the largest one, pcBPA-4, being 2.3 kb in size. The pcBPA-4 cDNA hybridized in Northern analyses with an approximately 9-kb mRNA from cultured keratinocytes, whereas no hybridization signal was detected with RNA from human skin fibroblast, fibrosarcoma HT-1080 cells, or amniotic epithelial WISH cell cultures. Nucleotide sequencing of pcBPA-4 revealed an open reading frame encoding a putative polypeptide of 447 amino acids. This polypeptide showed 88% homology with corresponding mouse BP antigen sequences, and a region of its was identical to a segment in previously published human BP antigen sequences. The 2.3-kb cDNA isolated here was different from a previously published human BP antigen cDNA, in that the open reading frame coded for 264 additional amino acids at the carboxyl end of the putative polypeptide. Known human BP antigen amino acid sequences, compared with mouse sequences, were predicted to be moderately divergent with a unit of evolutionary period (UEP) of 4.5 millions of years (MY). Southern hybridizations suggested that the BP antigen gene (BPAG1) is present as a single copy in the human genome. Southern analyses also revealed the presence of a StuI restriction fragment length polymorphism that can be used for linkage analyses to study the inheritance of a particular BPAG1 allele and a heritable cutaneous disorder affecting the basement membrane zone, such as epidermolysis bullosa.
Using different amounts of vacuum and acrolein in various exposure periods to control two stored products insects

In this research, adults of Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) and Rhyzopertha dominica (Fabricius) were exposed to various air pressures solely (first phase) and air pressures together with acrolein (second phase) in various durations and mortality rates were determined. Complete mortality of T. castaneum was obtained at 1, 3 and 6 h after exposure to 10, 30 and 50 mmHg, respectively. R. dominica showed 96.25% and 60% mortality during 3 and 10 h exposed to 10 and 30 mmHg, respectively. Percentage mortality of the insects in second phase was significantly higher than the rate in first phase. T. castaneum was more susceptible than R. dominica in the both phases.
The Role of Parenting in Relational Aggression and Prosocial Behavior among Emerging Adults

This study investigated the role of remembered parenting styles and parental psychological control in the prediction of relational aggression and prosocial behavior in a college student sample (N = 323). Participants’ retrospective ratings of how they were parented were related to relational aggression and prosocial behavior; however, somewhat different relationships emerged for African American and White participants. Permissive parenting, authoritative parenting, and parental psychological control predicted relational aggression. Participant race and all 3 parenting styles (authoritarian, authoritative, and permissive) predicted prosocial behavior. Participant race moderated the relationship between psychological control and prosocial behavior. Specifically, parental psychological control was inversely related to prosocial behavior for African American, but not White, participants.
Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles of Ocular and Nasal Flora in Patients Undergoing Intravitreal Injections

Purpose To identify the resistance profiles of conjunctival and nasal bacterial isolates in patients undergoing intravitreal injections and to determine if frequent exposures to topical fluoroquinolones increased antimicrobial resistance among these organisms. Design Prospective cohort study. Methods Patients undergoing intravitreal injection at our institution were enrolled in this study. The conjunctiva and nares of both sides of the patient's face were swabbed and cultured before antiseptic preparation for intravitreal injection. At the time of the study, all patients received 3 days of moxifloxacin eye drops after each intravitreal injection as prophylaxis against endophthalmitis. Resistance to antimicrobials was analyzed using the chi-square test and t test. Results Two hundred eight conjunctival and nasal specimens were cultured from 104 patients. Forty-two (45%) of 93 patients had at least 1 fluoroquinolone-resistant organism in the nose or conjunctiva. Twelve (48%) of 25 patients with no previous injections had at least 1 resistant organism; 14 (45%) of 31 patients with 1 to 4 previous injections had at least 1 resistant organism; 8 (33%) of 24 patients with 5 to 9 previous injections had at least 1 resistant organism; and 8 (62%) of 13 patients with 10 or more previous injections had at least 1 resistant organism ( P = .88; chi-square test, linear by linear association). Conclusions In this small study, there was no correlation between the number of exposures to topical fluoroquinolones and resistance to fluoroquinolones in nasal and conjunctival flora, but there was a high prevalence of fluoroquinolone resistance among all patient groups.
Power networks and surveillance: Viewing service as an interactive component of public relations professionalism

Abstract Using an interactionist perspective, this article explores the way in which service draws together power elites in a community's communications network, provides a context for peer evaluation, and is an effective means of maintaining internal surveillance. This study raises new questions with regard to participation in service. Because public relations practitioners contribute to the social construction of reality in a community, an understanding of the issues involved with investing time into the community is important.
Effects of group ownership on daily newspaper content

The author explores whether there is a systematic impact on newspaper content based on ownership by newspaper groups. He finds that group ownership has no effect on the way news space is allocated, but that it has some impact on the newshole, the amount of space available per reporter, and on editorial space use.
Perspectives, Pluralism, Showing and Saying

This paper reflects on a number of metaphysical and epistemological aspects of theatrical performance and the theatrical aspects of some philosophical writing. It tries to demonstrate that both philosophy and theater say and show philosophical truths while also giving some evidence for the truth of a pluralist view.
T-cell recognition of an immunodominant myelin basic protein epitope in multiple sclerosis.

MULTIPLE sclerosis is thought to be an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system mediated by T cells specific for a myelin antigen1,2. Myelin basic protein has been studied as a potential autoantigen in the disease because of its role as an encephalitogen in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and post-viral encephalomyelitis3,4 and because of the presence in the blood of multiple sclerosis patients of in vivo-activated T cells reactive to myelin basic protein5. Immune involvement in multiple sclerosis has been further suggested by the association with the major histocompatibility complex class II phenotype DR2, DQwl (refs 6–9). To define the T-cell specificity toward myelin basic protein, 15,824 short-term T-cell lines were established from multiple sclerosis subjects, subjects with other neurological diseases, and normal controls. Here we report a higher frequency of T-cell lines reactive with a DR2-associated region of myelin basic protein between residues 84–102 in patients with multiple sclerosis compared with controls. A second region, identified between residues 143–168, was recognized equally in multiple sclerosis patients and controls and was associated with the DRwll phenotype. These DR2 and DRw11 associations were also observed among T-cell lines generated from family members of a multiple sclerosis patient. The immunodominant 84–102 peptide from myelin basic protein was both DR2- and DQwl-restricted among different T-cell lines. These results raise the possibility that this immunodominant region may be encephalitogenic in some DR2+ individuals.
Measurement of thermal conduction within a large fresh water ice block being towed in sea water

Abstract Large blocks (2500 kg) of fresh water ice were towed in sea water at speeds of approximately one knot. Thermocouples were frozen into the ice. The temperature profile was measured within the ablating ice block as a function of time and distance from the ice/water interface. A temperature gradient in the ice of 14.5°C/cm was found at the ice/water interface. A theory was developed which calculates the temperature within the ice in good agreement with measured values; agreement was usually to within a fraction of a degree Celsius. The thermal boundary layer was measured under turbulent flow conditions. At the ice/water interface, an average temperature gradient in the water of 62.9°C/cm was measured in one test. Using the measured temperature gradients and measured regression rates, an energy balance was calculated for the ice/water interface. The energies balanced within 0.3 per cent. A significant contribution of this paper is a set of thermal boundary layer profiles. The measurements are extremely valuable to theoreticians who want to model the problem of melting ice.
Metal-Organic Frameworks Based on Trigonal Prismatic Building Blocks and the New “acs” Topology

Cationic and mixed-valent forms of Fe3O(CO2)6 trigonal prismatic clusters have been linked by ditopic links, namely, 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate (1,4-BDC) and 1,3-benzenedicarboxylate (1,3-BDC), to produce two 3-periodic metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), [Fe3O(1,4-BDC)3 (DMF)3][FeCl4] x (DMF)3 (MOF-235) and Fe3O(1,3-BDC)3 (py)3 x (py)0.5(H2O)1.5 (MOF-236) (DMF = N,N-dimethylformamide, py = pyridine), respectively. These MOFs exemplify a new, high-symmetry topology termed acs which we identify here as the default arrangement for linking trigonal prisms together.
The nature of the redshift and directly observed quasar statistics

The nature of the cosmic redshift is one of the most fundamental questions in modern science. Hubble's discovery of the apparent Expansion of the Universe is derived from observations on a small number of galaxies at very low redshifts. Today, quasar redshifts have a range more than 1000 times greater than those in Hubble's sample, and represent more than 100 times as many objects. A recent comprehensive compilation of published measurements provides the basis for a study indicating that quasar observations are not in good agreement with the original predictions of the Expanding Universe theory, but are well fit by the predictions of an alternative theory having fewer adjustable parameters.
Photonically controlled phased arrays

We review our progress in the demonstration of photonically controlled phased arrays. In particular, we emphasize the impact made by photonic phased arrays steered via true-time- delay. We describe, in addition, a photonic beamforming architecture that combines RF-heterodyning with a Rotman lines feed for multiple beam formation.
A Role for REP Sequences in Regulating Translation

Repetitive extragenic palindromic (REP) sequences are highly structured elements found downstream of ∼500 genes in Escherichia coli that result in extensive stem-loop structures in their mRNAs. However, their physiological role has remained elusive. Here, we show that REP sequences can downregulate translation, but only if they are within 15 nt of a termination codon; a spacing of 16 nt has no effect, suggesting that the REP element acts to stall ribosome movement. Ribosome stalling leads to cleavage of the mRNA and induction of the trans-translation process. Using nrdAB as a model, we find that its regulation can be partially reversed by overexpression of RNA helicases and can be fully overcome upon UV stress, emphasizing the importance of this regulatory process. Since 50% of REP-associated genes have these elements within the critical 15 nt, these findings identify a regulatory mechanism with the potential to affect translation from a large number of genes.
Neural plasticity following auditory training in children with learning problems.

Abstract Objective : This study examined the plasticity of the central auditory pathway and accompanying cognitive changes in children with learning problems. Methods : Children diagnosed with a learning disability and/or attention deficit disorder worked with commercial auditory processing training software for 8 weeks; control groups consisted of normal-learning and learning-impaired children who did not participate in any remedial programs. Auditory brainstem function was evaluated in response to click and speech stimuli in quiet; cortical responses to speech stimuli were obtained in quiet and noise. Academic achievement and cognitive abilities were assessed with standardized measures. Results : Compared to controls, the trained group improved on measures of auditory processing and exhibited changes in cortical responses in quiet and in noise. In quiet, cortical responses reflected an accelerated maturational pattern; in background noise, cortical responses became more resistant to degradation. Brainstem responses did not change with training. Conclusions : Children with learning problems who practiced with auditory training software exhibited plasticity of neural encoding of speech sounds at the cortical, but not subcortical, level of the auditory pathway. This plasticity was accompanied by improvement in behavioral performance. Significance : This study demonstrates that in learning-impaired children working with commercial auditory processing training programs affects both the perception and the cortical representation of sound.
Longshore Surface Currents Measured by Doppler Radar and Video PIV Techniques

Mean longshore surface currents within the surf zone were measured using two remote sensing techniques: microwave Doppler radar and optical video. Doppler radar relies on small-scale surface roughness that scatters the incident electromagnetic radiation so that velocities are obtained from the Doppler shift of the backscattered radiation. Video relies on texture and contrast of scattered sunlight from the sea surface, and velocity estimates are determined using particle imaging velocimetry (PIV). This paper compares video PIV and Doppler radar surface velocities over a 1-km alongshore by 0.5-km cross-shore area in the surf zone of a natural beach. The two surface velocity estimates are strongly correlated (R2 ges 0.79) over much of the surf zone. Estimates differ at the outer edge of the surf where strong breaking is prevalent, with radar-estimated velocities as much as 50% below the video estimates. The radar and PIV velocities at particular locations in the surf zone track each other well over a 6-h period, showing strong modulations in the mean alongshore flow occurring on 10-20-min time intervals. In one case, both systems observe a strong eddy-like mean flow pattern over a 200-m section of coastline, with the mean alongshore current changing direction at about the mid surf zone. The good spatial and temporal agreement between the two remote measurement techniques, which rely on very different mechanisms, suggests that both are reasonably approximating the true mean longshore surface velocity.
Prefrontal dopamine D1 receptors and working memory in schizophrenia.

Studies in nonhuman primates documented that appropriate stimulation of dopamine (DA) D1 receptors in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) is critical for working memory processing. The defective ability of patients with schizophrenia at working memory tasks is a core feature of this illness. It has been postulated that this impairment relates to a deficiency in mesocortical DA function. In this study, D1 receptor availability was measured with positron emission tomography and the selective D1 receptor antagonist [11C]NNC 112 in 16 patients with schizophrenia (seven drug-naive and nine drug-free patients) and 16 matched healthy controls. [11C]NNC 112 binding potential (BP) was significantly elevated in the DLPFC of patients with schizophrenia (1.63 ± 0.39 ml/gm) compared with control subjects (1.27 ± 0.44 ml/gm; p = 0.02). In patients with schizophrenia, increased DLPFC [11C]NNC 112 BP was a strong predictor of poor performance at the n-back task, a test of working memory. These findings confirm that alteration of DLPFC D1 receptor transmission is involved in working memory deficits presented by patients with schizophrenia. Increased D1 receptor availability observed in patients with schizophrenia might represent a compensatory (but ineffective) upregulation secondary to sustained deficiency in mesocortical DA function.
Effects of Situated Learning on Students' Knowledge Acquisition: An Individual Differences Perspective

This study focuses on the effects of situated learning on students' knowledge acquisition by investigating the influence of individual differences in such learning. Seventy-nine graduates were recruited from an educational department and were assigned to situated learning and traditional learning based on a randomized block design. Results revealed differences between traditional and situated learning as well as between field dependent (FD) and field independent (FI) learners in situated learning. A correlation analysis showed that situated learning was significantly correlated with learners' performance and individual differences defined as FD and FI in this study. The findings of the study have significant implications in learning and research in that they: (a) revealed the differences between traditional and situated learning; (b) identified the interaction between individual differences and instructional condition that influenced learners' learning outcome; and (c) showed crucial relationships among t...
Tractable fitting with convex polynomials via sum-of-squares

We consider the problem of fitting given data (u 1 ,y 1 ),...,(u m ,y m ) where u i ∈ Rnand y i ∈ R with a convex polynomial f. A technique to solve this problem using sum of squares polynomials is presented. This technique is extended to enforce convexity of f only on a specified region. Also, an algorithm to fit the convex hull of a set of points with a convex sub-level set of a polynomial is presented. This problem is a natural extension of the problem of finding the minimum volume ellipsoid covering a set. The algorithm, like that for the minimum volume ellipsoid problem, has the property of being invariant to affine coordinate transformations. We generalize this technique to fit arbitrary unions and intersections of polynomial sub-level sets.
Left atrial appendage... and another appendage

Fig 2. 3D transesophageal echocardiography image showing the outpouching of the left atrial wall (arrow) close to the P3 scallop of the mitral valve. Abbreviations: LV, left ventricle; LA, left atrium). Fig 3. En face view of the mitral valve obtained with 3D transesophageal echocardiography. The left atrial appendage is seen at the 9 o’clock position, while an outpouching of the left atrial wall also is seen (4 o’clock) in close proximity to the P3 scallop of the posterior leaflet of the mitral valve (arrowhead). Abbreviations: AV, aortic valve; LAA, left atrial appendage.
MEMS electrolytic inchworms for movable neural probe applications

We have designed, fabricated, and tested an inchworm actuator using water electrolysis as the mechanical power source. The device was introduced in [1], and further characterization and interesting reliability results are reported here. Each actuator is made of two sealed electrolyte-filled silicone balloons. When electrolysis is run inside a balloon, the balloon expands due to gas generation. When electrolysis is stopped, the balloon shrinks due to gas recombination and permeation through the silicone. Bidirectional movement of a rotor, e.g., a metal probe, is obtained by applying specific expansion/shrinkage sequences to the balloons. The device works at low voltage and current, with peak power consumption around 100 µW. Displacement of silicon and metal probes from 0.5 µm to 75 µm per cycle was demonstrated. Reliability tests were also performed. The hydrogel-enabled process to fabricate the balloons is also illustrated.
Translation in the RNA World: Insight from the Proto-Ribosome Model

To quote Carl Woese “Translation not only defines gene expression, but it is the sine qua non without which modern (protein-based) cells would not have come into existence.” Yet to understand how this universal process might have developed requires an evolutionary RNA-World-centered concept of translation. A theory of the primitive RNA-based translation mechanism is developed starting from segments of the ribosome that comprise the symmetric A- and P-cores of the peptidyl-transferase center (PTC). We have computationally engineered RNA structural motifs, such as the frequently occurring tetra-loops and A-minor interactions, into the PTC to construct the model of a prebiotic proto-ribosome. The stability of the model, and thus the probability of its primordial existence, increases as we build up the complexity of the RNA molecule. We found that a minimal size of about 190 nucleotides (95 for each symmetric monomer) is required for the proto-ribosome to reach microsecond stability under physiological conditions. Moreover, this stable model is able to hold the charged tRNA CCA-end in both the A- and P-sites long enough, so that the substrates can be reoriented into a transition state favorable for peptide bond formation. To support our computational model of the proto-ribosome, native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was performed on separate A- and P-cores to confirm their unique native folding conformations; and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) was used to measure the binding rate of the two components with and without substrates. Our results demonstrate that a functional RNA molecule could have existed as the primitive translation apparatus capable of making short statistical peptide chains, and therefore, enable the transition of the ancient RNA world into the world of the modern cells.
The Poisson process and associated probability distributions on time scales

Duals of probability distributions on continuous (R) domains exist on discrete (Z) domains. The Poisson distribution on R, for example, manifests itself as a binomial distribution on Z. Time scales are a domain generalization in which R and Z are special cases. We formulate a generalized Poisson process on an arbitrary time scale and show that the conventional Poisson distribution on R and binomial distribution on Z are special cases. The waiting times of the generalized Poisson process are used to derive the Erlang distribution on a time scale and, in particular, the exponential distribution on a time scale. The memoryless property of the exponential distribution on R is well known. We find conditions on the time scale which preserve the memorylessness property in the generalized case.
DES, Hybrid RANS/LES and PANS Models for Unsteady Separated Turbulent Flow Simulations

This paper presents computational results for two DES (Detached Eddy Simulation), one hybrid RANS (Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes)/ LES (Large Eddy Simulation) and some preliminary results from PANS (Partially Averaged Navier-Stokes) turbulence for simulation of unsteady separated turbulent flows. The models are implemented in a full 3-D Navier Stokes solver and are based on the twoequation k-e model. The formulations of each model are presented and results are analyzed for subsonic flow over a Backward Facing Step (BFS). Simulations are carried out using a 3 rd order Roe scheme. A comparative assessment is made between the predictions from the DES, hybrid and PANS models. The predicted results are compared with the available experimental data for skin-friction coefficient, and different turbulent quantities. The three-dimensionality of the flow field and the separated fine scale structures are presented through the Q iso-surfaces.
Associations Between Expectancies of Alcohol and Drug Use, Severity of Partner Violence, and Posttraumatic Stress Among Women

Women who experience recurrent intimate partner violence (IPV) may use alcohol or drugs because they expect that these substances will help them cope with the negative physical and psychological sequelae of IPV. However, expectancies for alcohol and drug use have not been explored among this population of women. We used the Relaxation and Tension-Reduction Scale, Arousal and Aggression Scale, and Social Assertion Scale of the Alcohol Expectancy Questionnaire and modified its items to assess both alcohol and drug expectancies of 212 community-based, IPV-exposed women. Results of bivariate correlations showed that greater alcohol and drug expectancies were significantly correlated with greater alcohol problems and greater posttraumatic stress total and symptom severity scores. Results of a multivariate regression model showed that after controlling for demographic characteristics and history of childhood trauma, Relaxation and Tension- Reduction expectancies were associated with number of days of alcohol us...
Molecular Nutrition, Nutrigenomics and Health Promotion: A Long Road Ahead

Molecular Nutrition, Nutrigenomics and Health Promotion: A Long Road Ahead Advances in “omics”-based fields have produced an explosion of new information, fueling high expectations for improved public and individualized health. Unfortunately, there exists a widening gap between basic biochemistry and omics-based population research, with both disciplines failing to translate their full potential impact to human health applications. In an attempt to address this current situation, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has made “translational” or “bench-to-bedside” research a priority, forming specialized centers and launching the Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) program in 2006.
3D CT angiography of abdominal wall vascular perforators to plan DIEAP flaps.

Purpose: Since the first report of TRAM flap reconstruction, there have been numerous studies to reduce complications of elective breast reconstruction. Current methods of preoperative perforator localization can be time-consuming, inaccurate, and imprecise. Thus, we sought to evaluate ultra-high resolution 3D CT angiography for the preoperative mapping of DIEAP flap perforating vessels. Methods: We reviewed all perforator-based breast reconstructions performed over a 5-month period. Candidates for DIEAP flap reconstruction were sent for a focused CT scan of the abdominal wall, using the 64 slice multi-detector CT scanner. Results: This article presents our first 23 flaps in 17 patients with preoperative ultra-high resolution 3D CT angiography. The reconstruction plan changed in three patients (18%). There was one take-back for venous congestion, but no partial or total flap loss. Conclusions: Preoperative perforator flap planning for breast reconstruction utilizing 3D CT angiogram is safe, easy to read, and can change the operative plan. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2007.
Update on the treatment of HIV-associated hematologic malignancies

HIV is associated with an excess cancer risk, particularly of lymphoid malignancies. Modern therapeutics has changed the landscape of HIV disease and typical opportunistic complications of AIDS are now largely avoided. Although the risk of lymphoma has decreased, it still remains high. Nevertheless, treatment outcomes have improved due both to improvements in HIV medicine and in cancer therapeutics for the common lymphomas occurring in those with HIV infection. Other hematologic malignancies are rarely seen in HIV-infected patients, but the standardized risk ratio for many of these cancers is higher than in the background population. Principles of cancer care and appreciation for HIV infection as a comorbid condition can guide physicians in setting realistic goals and treatment for this patient population. In many cases, expected outcomes are very similar to the HIV-unrelated patients and therapeutic planning should be based on this understanding. Treatment tolerance can be predicted based on the status of the HIV disease and the cancer therapy being administered. For those hematologic cancers in which transplantation is part of standard care, this modality should be considered an option in those with HIV infection.
Pancreozymin and Secretin Enhance Duodenal Fluid Antibody Levels to Cow's Milk Proteins

Duodenal fluid was collected from normal volunteers before and after stimulation with pancreozymin-cholecystokinin and secretin. Protein content, proteolytic enzyme activities, and antibody activities against cow's milk proteins, α-casein, and β-lactoglobulin B, were measured in the duodenal fluid. After pancreozymin-cholecystokinin stimulation, immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin M antibody activities rose to peak levels in 5-10 min. The increase in protein content and proteolytic enzyme activities after pancreozymin-cholecystokinin stimulation paralleled the increase in antibody activity against the two cow's milk proteins. Secretin, in spite of its known dilutional effect on duodenal fluid enzyme concentration, also produced a rise in immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin A antibody activities. Only a slight increase in immunoglobulin G antibody activity was noted after both pancreozymin-cholecystokinin and secretin. It is suggested that, pancreozymin-cholecystokinin and secretin, in addition to their well-established effects on the release of digestive enzymes, also stimulate release of specific antibodies against food proteins. Release of antibody coincident with food intake may act in preventing the inadvertent absorption of antigenic food proteins.
Critical Tax Theory: The Tax Treatment of Children: Separate but Unequal

Tax credits for children are found in two separate tax provisions. The Earned income tax credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC) are similar in many ways, yet in crucial respects EITC recipients are disadvantaged when compared with CTC recipients. This piece seeks an explanation for the disparity and ultimately finds that the only plausible explanation is a race based one. Politicians recently played the race card by analogizing the EITC to welfare. Academics argue without empirical support that low-income taxpayers who receive the EITC are Black and disproportionately benefit from the credit. This Article provides the first comprehensive empirical analysis of low-income taxpayers and shows that the majority of EITC- eligible taxpayers are White and that a greater percentage of Blacks are EITC- ineligible than are EITC-eligible. EITC provisions that disadvantage EITC recipients will disadvantage Whites. By making the earned income tax credit a problem of low-income Blacks, academics and politicians have ignored the larger class issue. This Article, by taking account of race in order to move beyond it, reveals that real EITC reform is possible and argues that CTC benefits currently available only to middle income children should be available to low-income children.
STEM Education: Creating Meaningful Experiences with Interaction Design

Science education needs better integration in school curricula, and into society as a whole; engagement with science education is relevant at any age. Over the past two decades interactive technological tools have become increasingly more accessible and easy to use. From simple websites to immersive simulations, a wide range of experiences have been crafted to better educate students and the public about science. What are some of the lessons learned, and what areas still need more research?
Designing a Soluble PEDOT Analogue without Surfactants or Dispersants

Copolymerization of alkoxy-functionalized 3,4-propylenedioxythiophenes (ProDOTs) with unfunctionalized 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophenes (EDOTs) in varying ratios using direct arylation yields a series of solution processable polymers with highly tunable optical and electronic properties. Within this series, we have identified ProDOT–EDOT2, a copolymer containing 67% EDOT compositionally, that combines the low oxidation potential, the redox behavior, and the deep-blue neutral color that are characteristic of PEDOT with the high solubility, exceptional electrochromic contrast, and color neutrality in the oxidized state characteristic of alkoxy-functionalized PProDOTs.
Surgery in the patient with acute or chronic renal failure

Medical management of the surgical patient with renal dysfunction revolves primarily around the application of sound medical principles used in the care of all patients. In this article, the unique peculiarities associated with renal failure are stressed. Knowledge of these points is vital in securing a favorable outcome for the patient.
EXPERIMENTAL TESTS OF GENETIC TRANSILIENCE.

Rundle et al. (1998) recently attempted to test the founderflush model of speciation by Carson (1968) and the genetictransilience model of speciation by Templeton (1980a). They correctly noted that these two hypotheses for founder-influenced speciation are not identical, but do require similar demographic situations and can co-occur (Carson and Templeton 1984). The hypotheses they state they are testing are therefore the combined founder-flush/genetic transilience theories of speciation. As will be evident later, their experimental design precludes tests of the founder-flush model, but their design does remain a valid experimental test of genetic transilience. Genetic transilience is particularly amenable to experimental testing because the primary motive behind the genetic transilience theory was to apply population genetics "to the problem of speciation in such a manner as to greatly augment the explanatory and, more importantly, the predictive powers of speciation theories" (Templeton 1980a, p. 1011). The model of genetic transilience when published in 1980 was, and continues to this day, to be a rarity in the speciation literature because it not only explained some observed patterns of speciation, it also predicted when founder events were unlikely to lead to speciation. Indeed, the theory of genetic transilience requires many conditions to be satisfied to make speciation likely after a founder event, leading to the overall conclusion "that genetic transilience is an unlikely mode of speciation and that the vast majority of founder events have no significance whatsoever with regard to the process of speciation" (Templeton 1986, p. 500-501). Although rare in a global sense, genetic transilience is readily testable because it makes specific and detailed predictions about the conditions in which speciation associated with founder events are likely. The number of predictions is quite lengthy (Templeton 1980a,b) and summaries are given in tables 1 and 2 of Templeton (1980a). The only predictions that will be discussed in detail in this comment are those that directly relate to the arguments of Rundle et al. (1998).