cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Scrubbing optimization via availability prediction (SOAP) for reconfigurable space computing

Reconfigurable computing with FPGAs can be highly effective in terms of performance, adaptability, and power for accelerating space applications, but their configuration memory must be scrubbed to prevent the accumulation of single-event upsets. Many scrubbing techniques currently exist, each with different advantages, making it difficult for the system designer to choose the optimal scrubbing strategy for a given mission. This paper surveys the currently available scrubbing techniques and introduces the SOAP method for predicting system availability for various scrubbing strategies using Markov models. We then apply the method to compare hypothetical Virtex-5 and Virtex-6 systems for blind, CRC-32, and Frame ECC scrubbing strategies in LEO and HEO. We show that availability in excess of 5 nines can be obtained with modern, FPGA-based systems using scrubbing. Furthermore, we show the value of the SOAP method by observing that different scrubbing strategies are optimal for different types of missions.
The necessity of a theory of biology for tissue engineering: metabolism-repair systems

Since there is no widely accepted global theory of biology, tissue engineering and bioengineering lack a theoretical understanding of the systems being engineered. By default, tissue engineering operates with a "reductionist" theoretical approach, inherited from traditional engineering of non-living materials. Long term, that approach is inadequate, since it ignores essential aspects of biology. Metabolism-repair systems are a theoretical framework which explicitly represents two "functional" aspects of living organisms: self-repair and self-replication. Since repair and replication are central to tissue engineering, we advance metabolism-repair systems as a potential theoretical framework for tissue engineering. We present an overview of the framework, and indicate directions to pursue for extending it to the context of tissue engineering. We focus on biological networks, both metabolic and cellular, as one such direction. The construction of these networks, in turn, depends on biological protocols. Together these concepts may help point the way to a global theory of biology appropriate for tissue engineering.
Paradigms for single-patient multimodality treatment for cerebral aneurysms: single-center eleven-year experience

Endovascular and surgical techniques are conventional options for treating intracranial aneurysms, but criteria for selecting an optimal approach for individual patients remain variable across practitioners and institutions. While endovascular and surgical approaches are generally used alone, both modalities combined in single patients can produce efficacious outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of combined, concomitant endovascular and surgical modalities in the treatment of multiple and/or complex aneurysms in single patients. Indications, sequencing rationale, and categorization for multimodality treatments are reviewed. All intracranial aneurysms treated at our institution from 2004 to 2014 were reviewed. Single patients who had undergone concomitant endovascular and surgical treatments were eligible for participation in our study. Demographic data and clinical presentation parameters, including location, size, and morphological features of lesions, treatment sequencing, and outcomes were recorded. Our cohort consisted of 27 patients with 57 aneurysms who received concomitant endovascular and surgical treatment of their aneurysm(s). One patient arrived to us after he had an aneurysm clipped at an outside institution and then required treatment for a contralateral ruptured aneurysm. 66.7% of patients were diagnosed with subarachnoid hemorrhage. These were subdivided according to therapeutic approach: clipping and coiling (CL+CO), clipping and stenting (CL+ST), bypass and endovascular parent vessel occlusion (PVO) (BY+PVO), attempted clipping then stenting, and bypass followed by stenting. Glasgow Outcome Scale was as follows: CL-CO-Multiple, 4.17 (five in unruptured patients, 3.75 in ruptured); CO-CL-Multiple, five (all patients had a ruptured aneurysm); CL-CO-Single, three (all patients had a ruptured aneurysm); CO-CL-Single, five (all patients had a ruptured aneurysm). No patients suffered a new neurological deficit as a result of treatment. A total of two mortalities were documented. Concomitant, mutimodality endovascular and surgical therapy may offer a safe and potentially more effective paradigm than single modality approaches for the management of multiple, complex, or “failed” aneurysm treatments in selected patients.
Feasibility study of spatial frequency domain imaging using a handheld miniaturized projector and rigid endoscope

Initial feasibility of a spatial frequency domain imaging system was studied consisting of a hand held miniaturized projector and a rigid endoscope. Three wavelengths and two spatial frequencies were used for imaging. The system was calibrated using tissue mimicking phantoms. In vivo imaging was performed on five live mouse tumor models, and the absorption, scattering, hemoglobin oxygen saturation was measured. The initial promising results indicate that the spatial frequency domain imaging can a very useful tool for quantitative wide field tissue evaluation during minimally invasive image guided surgery.
A rapid isothermal assay for the detection of Hop stunt viroid in hop plants (Humulus lupulus), and its application in disease surveys

Hop stunt disease caused by Hop stunt viroid (HSVd) is a growing threat to hop cultivation globally. HSVd spreads mainly by use of contaminated planting material and by mechanical means. Thorough testing of hop yards and removal of infected bines are critical components of efforts to control the spread of the disease. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) has become the primary technique used for HSVd detection; however, sample handling and analysis are technically challenging. In this study, a robust reverse transcription-recombinase polymerase amplification (RT-RPA) assay was developed to facilitate analysis of multiple samples. The assay was optimized with all major variants of HSVd from other host species in addition to hop variants. Used in conjunction with sample collection cards, RT-RPA accommodates large sample numbers. Greenhouse and farm samples tested with RT-RPA were also tested with RT-PCR and a 100% correlation between the two techniques was found.
The Problem with the Satan Hypothesis: Natural Evil and Fallen Angel Theodicies

In contemporary discussions of natural evil, one classically important theodicy—variously called warfare theodicy, fallen angel theodicy, or the Satan hypothesis—is rarely mentioned, let alone defended. This is the view that so-called natural evil, the evil suffered by sentient beings that is not caused by human agency, is caused by angelic agency, specifically that of Satan and other fallen angels. Although the Satan hypothesis has received scant attention in contemporary philosophy of religion, Richard Swinburne, Michael Martin, Robert Adams, and David O’Connor have each brought separate objections against it, but their objections fail. The real problem with the Satan hypothesis lies elsewhere. This paper begins by stating the Satan hypothesis and briefly sketching its scriptural and theological warrants in the Christian tradition. Second, it canvasses the objections that have been brought against the hypothesis and shows how each objection fails. Third, it isolates the real problem for the Satan hypothesis, namely the lack of any satisfactory account of how malevolent angelic agency could conceivably be the cause of natural evil. Finally, the paper offers three speculative proposals for such an account, highlighting problems with each. The upshot is that although the Satan hypothesis is a prominent theodicy in the history of Christian thought and in popular Christianity, it confronts philosophical challenges not yet met by its proponents.
Leaky Mode Engineering in Silicon Nanorods and Their Assemblies

Rational fabrication strategies for gold-tipped silicon nanorods and nanorod dimers supporting leaky modes are introduced. The electromagnetic working principles of these materials are investigated.
Emotional modulation of habit memory: neural mechanisms and implications for psychopathology

Emotional arousal modulates the function of multiple memory systems. Extensive evidence employing both lower animals (i.e. rats and mice) and human subjects indicates that behavioral and pharmacological stressors enhance habit memory mediated by the dorsolateral striatum (DLS) at the expense of hippocampus-dependent cognitive memory. It has been the goal of several recent studies to uncover the neural mechanisms underlying this emotional enhancement of habit memory. Among the mechanisms implicated in this phenomenon are a modulatory role of the amygdala, stress hormones, and a competitive interaction between DLS-dependent and hippocampus-dependent memory systems. Studies investigating the emotional modulation of habit memory may be helpful for understanding how stress and anxiety promote maladaptive habitual behaviors in some human psychopathologies (e.g. post-traumatic stress disorder, drug addiction/relapse, etc.).
Gut microbiome influences on anastomotic leak and recurrence rates following colorectal cancer surgery.

Background The pathogenesis of colorectal cancer recurrence after a curative resection remains poorly understood. A yet-to-be accounted for variable is the composition and function of the microbiome adjacent to the tumour and its influence on the margins of resection following surgery. Methods PubMed was searched for historical as well as current manuscripts dated between 1970 and 2017 using the following keywords: 'colorectal cancer recurrence', 'microbiome', 'anastomotic leak', 'anastomotic failure' and 'mechanical bowel preparation'. Results There is a substantial and growing body of literature to demonstrate the various mechanisms by which environmental factors act on the microbiome to alter its composition and function with the net result of adversely affecting oncological outcomes following surgery. Some of these environmental factors include diet, antibiotic use, the methods used to prepare the colon for surgery and the physiological stress of the operation itself. Conclusion Interrogating the intestinal microbiome using next-generation sequencing technology has the potential to influence cancer outcomes following colonic resection.
A Feasibility Study of a Telehealth Intervention on Health Care Service Utilization among Transgender Women of Color in Washington, DC

Background Transgender women of color (TWC) are a medically underserved population who often experience substantial barriers to care. TWC experience high rates of stigma, violence, and entrenched barriers to receiving routine or specialty health services. Novel ways to improve access for TWC are urgently needed. Telehealth is one way to support TWC in overcoming barriers, yet this approach has been largely unexamined. The purpose of this study was to develop a TWC-specific telehealth intervention to increase access to primary and specialty care and then pilot test this intervention in a sample of TWC with at least one structural barrier to care. Methods Eligible participants were 18 years or older, identified as male sex at birth with a current gender identity of either female or transgender, a member of a racial/ethnic minority, and had experienced at least one study-defined structural barrier to primary or specialty care in the past 6 months. Following a 3-month preintervention phase, participants began a 3-month telehealth intervention which provided secure, remote access to trained, culturally appropriate, peer health consultants (PHCs) via video chat, e-mail, text, or phone. Health care utilization was assessed monthly via computer-assisted self-interview. Outcomes of intention to seek care in the next month and receipt of care in the past month were modeled using generalized estimating equations (GEE). Results Twenty-five eligible participants were enrolled in the study; a majority were black (96%), older than 25 years (69%), living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (52%), and reported depressive symptomatology (67%). Of the 16 who had at least one pre- and one intervention data collection point, 13 downloaded the mobile video chat application and 7 participated in a qualitative exit interview. The intervention was associated with significantly (p Conclusion These pilot data suggest that telehealth with remote access to PHCs who can provide immediate, culturally competent, nonclinical, education, and referral guidance may be effective in overcoming multiple barriers and improving care utilization outcomes for TWC. Telehealth may be an innovative, low-cost solution to improve health outcomes for populations with multiple barriers to health care services.
Innovation in Information Systems Education-III Sourcing Management - A Course in the Information Systems Curriculum

The growth in information technology (IT) outsourcing and offshoring redefined the role of the IT manager. The IT professional today is expected to possess many skills besides technical expertise; the IT management job now includes administering contracts and managing relationships across cultures. This article describes a graduate course that was developed to help the IT professional achieve the required knowledge and skills to perform in these new roles. The course addresses various aspects of IT sourcing including sourcing strategies, sourcing options, contract types, stakeholder perceptions, and the sourcing life cycle.
On self-tuning control of Tokamak thermokinetics

Adaptive control techniques can be applied to on-line gain tuning of tokamak thermokinetics. In this paper, a self-tuning control scheme is explored for both the plasma profile and power control. The distributed parameter system of the flux-surface-averaged one-dimensional transport equations is discretized by a nonlinear variational procedure. A finite-dimensional multiple-input/multiple-output control algorithm is derived using the linearized equations. A particular class of nonlinear three-parameter profiles is used for plasma density, temperature, and deuterium fraction profiles. Feedback gains are determined using a simplified minimum variance control law of self-tuning control. In the examples, normal multiple-output specifications for the plasma profile parameters for the density and power control are shown to be controllable by multiple-particle inputs alone.
Using Score Fusion for Improving the Performance of Multispectral Face Recognition

Score fusion combines several scores from multiple modalities and/or multiple matchers, which can increase the accuracy of face recognition meanwhile decrease false accept rate (FAR). Specifically, the face scores are generated from two-spectral bands (visible and thermal) and from three matchers (circular Gaussian filter, face pattern byte, elastic bunch graphic matching). In this chapter, we first review the three face recognition algorithms (matchers), then present and compare the fusion performance of seven fusion methods: linear discriminant analysis (LDA), k-nearest neighbor (KNN), artificial neural network (ANN), support vector machine (SVM), binomial logistic regression (BLR), Gaussian mixture model (GMM), and hidden Markov model (HMM). Our experiments are conducted with the Alcon State University Multispectral face dataset that currently consists of two spectral images from 105 subjects. The experimental results show that all score fusions can improve the accuracy meanwhile reduce the FAR, and the KNN score fusion gives the best performance.
Diverse layered topology and magnetic subunits in cobalt cyclohexyldicarboxylate coordination polymers with 3-pyridylnicotinamide coligands

Abstract Three new divalent cobalt coordination polymers containing anionic cyclohexyldicarboxylate and neutral 3-pyridylnicotinamide (3-pna) tethering ligands have been prepared and structurally characterized via single-crystal X-ray diffraction. These phases show a diversity of layered topologies and differences in cobalt atom aggregation. [Co(cis-12chedc)(3-pna)(H2O)]n (1, cis-12chedc = 4-cyclohexene-cis-1,2-dicarboxylate) shows a standard (4,4) grid topology with magnetically isolated cobalt atoms. [Co(cis-13cdc)(3-pna)]n (2, cis-13cdc = cis-cyclohexane-1,3-dicarboxylate) shows a 2D 3,5-connected net with a previously unreported (3.52)(3253647) topology featuring “infinite” anti–syn bridged {Co(OCO)}n chain motifs pillared by 3-pna ligands. [Co(cis-14cdc)(3-pna)]n (3, cis-14cdc = cis-cyclohexane-1,4-dicarboxylate) shows a 2D 6-connected triangular net with (3,6) topology built from {Co2(OCO)2} dimeric units linked by cis-14cdc and 3-pna tethers. Magnetic susceptibility studies of compound 2 revealed a decrease in χmT product upon cooling, ascribed to antiferromagnetic coupling along the {Co(OCO)}n chain motifs concomitant with Kramers doublet formation (g = 2.24(3), D = 12.8(8) cm−1, J = –0.46(6) cm−1). For compound 3, Kramers doublet formation was also observed, but with ferromagnetic superexchange within its {Co2(OCO)2} dimeric units (g = 2.27(1), D = 24(1) cm−1, J = 0.35(2) cm−1). Thermal decomposition behavior of the three new phases is also discussed.
Imaging the competition between growth and production of self-assembled lipid droplets at the single-cell level

Several biotechnologies are currently available to quantify how cells allocate resources between growth and carbon storage, such as mass spectrometry. However, such biotechnologies require considerable amounts of cellular biomass to achieve adequate signal-to-noise ratio. In this way, existing biotechnologies inevitably operate in a ‘population averaging’ mode and, as such, they cannot unmask how cells allocate resources between growth and storage in a high-throughput fashion with single-cell, or subcellular resolution. This methodological limitation inhibits our fundamental understanding of the mechanisms underlying resource allocations between different cellular metabolic objectives. In turn, this knowledge gap also pertains to systems biology effects, such as cellular noise and the resulting cell-to-cell phenotypic heterogeneity, which could potentially lead to the emergence of distinct cellular subpopulations even in clonal cultures exposed to identical growth conditions. To address this knowledge gap, we applied a high-throughput quantitative phase imaging strategy. Using this strategy, we quantified the optical-phase of light transmitted through the cell cytosol and a specific cytosolic organelle, namely the lipid droplet (LD). With the aid of correlative secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), we determined the protein content of different cytosolic organelles, thus enabling the conversion of the optical phase signal to the corresponding dry density and dry mass. The high-throughput imaging approach required only 2 μL of culture, yielding more than 1,000 single, live cell observations per tested experimental condition, with no further processing requirements, such as staining or chemical fixation.
A clinical trial design with covariate-adjusted response-adaptive randomization using superiority confidence of treatments.

AbstractAdaptive randomization using response outcome or covariate is commonly used in the literature. However, the performance of these designs has not been thoroughly studied, especially when the...
Instruction librarians and instructional designers: A natural collaboration

At the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, instructional designers and research and instruction librarians have similar goals yet unique roles and distinct responsibilities. There are eight instructional designers at the Center for Teaching & Learning (CTL) who use learning theory and design knowledge to work with faculty to plan and create online courses. At the university’s Atkins Library, 16 instruction librarians, including subject liaisons and first-year writing specialists, connect with faculty and students to further understanding of information literacy and research resources. Recognizing the groups’ common goals of partnering with faculty in course development and creating high-quality online learning resources, group administrators have launched an initiative to introduce the designers and librarians to each other and to their work.
Design and implementation of low-cost linear laser scanning system for photoacoustic imaging

Photoacoustic imaging is a hybrid imaging technique with broad preclinical and clinical applications. Most of the optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) configurations are based on 3D scanning motor to scan the transducer together with the imaged sample or utilizing galvanometer scanning mirrors. In this paper, a novel low-cost linear laser scanning (LLS) system for photoacoustic microscopy is presented. The linear laser scanning system performs the two-dimensional scanning of the beam across a focusing lens. The prototype built for LLS system features a precision machined aluminum base with mounting platforms for optical components to insure proper alignment through the imaging process. The LLS relies on two stepper motors (1.8-degree, 200 steps per revolution) separately actuated, to move two 45-degree mirror mounts set onto high precision linear slides (44.5 mm of travel) which allow the laser beam to be moved across a tissue sample in a 2D axis. The threaded rod which is used to connect the linear slides and mirror assemblies has a travel distance per turn of 1/20.8” meaning for every inch of travel the rod must turn 20.8 times. The mechanical resolution of the system was estimated to be 6 μm. In this system, a pulsed laser diode with a wavelength of peak radiant intensity of 905 nm and output peak power of 220 W with 50 ns pulse width and repetition rate of 10 kHz was utilized as a light source.
Random Number Generator Attack against the Kirchhoff-Law-Johnson-Noise Secure Key Exchange Protocol.

This paper introduces and demonstrates two new attacks against the Kirchhoff-Law-Johnson-Noise (KLJN) secure key exchange scheme. The attacks are based on random number generators with compromised security. First we explore the situation in which Eve knows the seed of both Alice's and Bob's random number generators. We show that in this situation Eve can crack the secure key bit within a fraction of the bit exchange period even if her current and voltage measurements have only a single bit of resolution. In the second attack, we explore the situation in which Eve knows the seed of only Alice's random number generator. We show that in this situation Eve can still crack the secure key bit but she needs to use the whole bit exchange period for the attack. The security of the KLJN key exchange scheme, similarly to other protocols, necessitates that the random number generator outputs are truly random for Eve.
Dynamic Control of Multisection Three-Dimensional Continuum Manipulators Based on Virtual Discrete-Jointed Robot Models

Despite the rise of development in continuum manipulator technology and application, a model-based feedback closed-loop control appropriate for continuum robot designs has remained a significant challenge. Complicated by the soft and flexible nature of the manipulator body, control of continuum structures with infinite dimensions proves to be difficult due to their complex dynamics. In this article, a novel strategy is designed for trajectory control of a multisection continuum robot in three-dimensional space to achieve accurate orientation, curvature, and section length tracking. The formulation connects the continuum manipulator dynamic behavior to a virtual discrete-jointed robot whose degrees of freedom are directly mapped to those of a continuum robot section under the hypothesis of constant curvature. Based on this connection, a computed torque control architecture is developed for the virtual robot, for which kinematics and dynamic equations are constructed and exploited, with appropriate transformations developed for implementation on the continuum robot. The control algorithm is implemented on a six degree-of-freedom two-section OctArm continuum manipulator. Experiments show that the proposed method could manage simultaneous extension/contraction, bending, and torsion actions on multisection continuum robots with decent performance (arc length and curvature error of ±4 mm and ±0.35 m–1). The designed dynamic controller can reduce the curvature tracking error and rise time by up to 48.1% and 94.8% compared to the traditional proportional-integral-derivative controller during two-section maneuvers.
Patient-Initiated Data: Our Experience with Enabling Patients to Initiate Incorporation of Heart Rate Data into the Electronic Health Record

Background Provider organizations increasingly allow incorporation of patient-generated data into electronic health records (EHRs). In 2015, we began allowing patients to upload data to our EHR without physician orders, which we henceforth call patient-initiated data (PAIDA). Syncing wearable heart rate monitors to our EHR allows for uploading of thousands of heart rates per patient per week, including many abnormally low and high rates. Physician informaticists expressed concern that physicians and their patients might be unaware of abnormal heart rates, including those caused by treatable pathology. Objective This study aimed to develop a protocol to address millions of unreviewed heart rates. Methods As a quality improvement initiative, we assembled a physician informaticist team to meet monthly for review of abnormally low and high heart rates. By incorporating other data already present in the EHR, lessons learned from reviewing records over time, and from contacting physicians, we iteratively refined our protocol. Results We developed (1) a heart rate visualization dashboard to identify concerning heart rates; (2) experience regarding which combinations of heart rates and EHR data were most clinically worrisome, as opposed to representing artifact; (3) a protocol whereby only concerning heart rates would trigger a cardiologist review revealing protected health information; and (4) a generalizable framework for addressing other PAIDA. Conclusion We expect most PAIDA to eventually require systematic integration and oversight. Our governance framework can help guide future efforts, especially for cases with large amounts of data and where abnormal values may represent concerning but treatable pathology.
Can Trans-Syndromal Prototypes ("Types") Improve Depiction of Complex Psychiatric Cases?: An Alternative Way to Consider Concordant Comorbid Psychiatric Disorders and Their Contexts as Coherent Units for Research, Assessment, and Treatment Planning.

Background and aims In many psychiatric settings, patients with complex cases are the rule rather than the exception. These cases are characterized by multidiagnostic conditions, often complicated with distressed social contexts, for which few if any evidence-based practice guidelines exist. The aim of this hypothesis-generating article is to consider whether and how these cases might comprise trans-syndromal prototypes ("types"), coherent units that could serve as the basis for further study, assessment, and treatment planning. Methods For context, psychiatric and medical visit diagnoses and problem lists noted among principle visit diagnoses and "snapshot" portions of electronic medical records were tabulated for 293 psychiatric outpatients seen consecutively during a 1-week period at a university psychiatric clinic. By considering resulting comorbidity patterns in these records from the perspectives of clinicians caring for these patients, several commonly encountered diagnostic-problem sets emerged as candidate types. Results Of 293 patients, only 18% had a single diagnosis, 43% had two, 29% had three, and 7% had four or more noted. Occurring in assorted combinations, specific diagnostic areas noted included depressive disorders (68%, the large majority major depressive disorder recurrent), anxiety disorders (60%, the large majority generalized anxiety disorder, with or without panic disorder and/or social anxiety disorder), posttraumatic stress disorder (22%), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (17%), alcohol and substance abuse disorders (16%), personality disorders (11%), and bipolar disorders (18%). Several illustrative candidate types emerging from this population are described including major anxious depressive disorder, anxiety disorder secondary to ADHD, complex emotional instability disorder, multi-impulsive eating disorder, substance-dependent impoverished personality disorder, painful mood disorder, and complex personal and cultural trauma disorder. Other potential types are identified as well. Conclusions and implications The types described here are but a small selection, because other settings including community mental health centers, private practices, public and private hospitals, and forensic facilities see a variety of other types as well. The study of types might provide important findings about pathogenesis, course, outcome, and treatment to augment information obtained from examination of individual diagnostic components.
Evaluating Environmental Film Maturation through a Deliquescence–Efflorescence Model

As atmospheric particulate and (semi)volatile molecules gradually deposit on outdoor surfaces, they create heterogeneous coatings known as environmental films. The unique chemical environments with...
Quality Improvement Effort to Reduce Supplementation by Introduction of a New Clinical Guideline in the Mother Baby Unit

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 4-6 months of life has been associated with better long-term health outcomes for both infants and mothers. Despite the protective effects of exclusive breastfeeding, many newborns receive supplementation during the birth hospitalization. Clinical practices regarding supplementation are variable. To standardize practice around supplementation, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) Partners developed a clinical guideline for supplemental feeding in healthy, term newborns. These guidelines incorporate the Newborn Early Weight Loss Tool …
Coronary vasodilation by noninvasive transcutaneous ultrasound: An in vivo canine study

Abstract Objectives We evaluated the coronary vasodilatory effects of transcutaneous low-frequency (27-kHz) ultrasound (USD). Background Ultrasound has been shown to affect vascular function. Methods Ultrasound energy was administered transcutaneously to 12 dogs. Coronary arterial dimensions were assessed using intravascular coronary ultrasound (IVUS) and quantitative coronary angiography (QCA). Results The IVUS mid-left anterior descending (LAD) luminal area was 6.77 ± 1.27 mm2at baseline. After 30 s of ultrasound, this area increased by 9% (7.40 ± 1.44 mm2, p Conclusions Noninvasive, transthoracic low-frequency USD energy results in coronary artery vasodilation within seconds of exposure. The vasodilation is reversible and is similar in magnitude to that induced by NTG. Further evaluation is needed to assess its potential applications in humans.
On the Magnetic Moments of Tl 203 , Tl 205 , Sn 115 , Sn 117 , Sn 119 , Cd 111 , Cd 113 , and Pb 207

A radiofrequency spectrometer for observing nuclear induction signals is described. The use of crossed radiofrequency coils allows, in a simple fashion, the determination of the signs of the magnetic moments. The spectrometer has been used to determine the magnetic moments and magnetic moment ratios given in Table II. These values are based on a proton moment, without diamagnetic correction, of (2.7935\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.0003) nuclear magnetons.
A tRNA(Trp) intron endonuclease from Halobacterium volcanii. Unique substrate recognition properties.

Abstract We report on the properties of a partially purified tRNA intron endonuclease from the archaebacterium Halobacterium volcanii. This enzyme is capable of precise excision of the 104-nucleotide intron from halo-bacterial pre-tRNA(Trp) substrates generated in vitro by T7 RNA polymerase transcription. The reaction requires divalent cations (Mg2+ or Ca2+) or spermidine, is inhibited by monovalent cations, and produces 5'-hydroxyl and 2',3'-cyclic phosphate termini. Unlike the universal substrate recognition properties characteristic of the eukaryotic tRNA intron endonucleases, this enzyme is specific for halophilic tRNA(Trp) substrates. The partially purified enzyme is not capable of removing the intron from a yeast pre-tRNA(Phe) substrate. Analysis of the enzyme's ability to cleave tRNA(Trp) substrates lacking exon sequences demonstrated that the mature tRNA-like structure is not required in the substrate. A substrate retaining the intact intron and only the anticodon stem and loop exon regions was efficiently cleaved. Deletions within the intron indicated that the intron was not a primary site for recognition by the endonuclease; however, its presence affects the efficiency of the cleavage reaction. The possible relationship of this enzyme to other RNA endonucleases is discussed.
(n-3) Fatty Acids and Cancer Therapy

Supplementing the diet of tumor-bearing mice or rats with oils containing (n-3) (omega-3) or with purified (n-3) fatty acids has slowed the growth of various types of cancers, including lung, colon, mammary, and prostate. The efficacy of cancer chemotherapy drugs such as doxorubicin, epirubicin, CPT-11, 5-fluorouracil, and tamoxifen, and of radiation therapy has been improved when the diet included (n-3) fatty acids. Some potential mechanisms for the activity of (n-3) fatty acids against cancer include modulation of eicosanoid production and inflammation, angiogenesis, proliferation, susceptibility for apoptosis, and estrogen signaling. In humans, (n-3) fatty acids have also been used to suppress cancer-associated cachexia and to improve the quality of life. In one study, the response to chemotherapy therapy was better in breast cancer patients with higher levels of (n-3) fatty acids in adipose tissue [indicating past consumption of (n-3) fatty acids] than in patients with lower levels of (n-3) fatty acids. Thus, in combination with standard treatments, supplementing the diet with (n-3) fatty acids may be a nontoxic means to improve cancer treatment outcomes and may slow or prevent recurrence of cancer. Used alone, an (n-3) supplement may be a useful alternative therapy for patients who are not candidates for standard toxic cancer therapies.
Lifetime adversity leads to blunted stress axis reactivity: studies from the Oklahoma Family Health Patterns Project.

Background Can stressful events in early life alter the response characteristics of the human stress axis? Individual differences in stress reactivity are considered potentially important in long-term health and disease; however, little is known about the sources of these individual differences. We present evidence that adverse experience in childhood and adolescence can alter core components of the stress axis, including cortisol and heart rate reactivity. Methods We exposed 354 healthy young adults (196 women) to public speaking and mental arithmetic stressors in the laboratory. Stress responses were indexed by self-report, heart rate, and cortisol levels relative to measures on a nonstress control day. Subjects were grouped into those who had experienced 0, 1, or 2 or more significant adverse life events, including Physical or Sexual Adversity (mugged, threatened with a weapon, experienced a break-in or robbery or raped or sexually assaulted by a relative or nonrelative) or Emotional Adversity (separation from biological mother or father for at least 6 months before age 15). Results Experience of adversity predicted smaller heart rate and cortisol responses to the stressors in a dose-dependent fashion (0 > 1 > 2 or more events) ( F values=5.79 and 8.11, p values Conclusions The results indicate a long-term impact of stressful life experience on the reactivity of the human stress axis.
Generation of helical gears with new surfaces, topology by application of CNC machines

Analysis of helical involute gears by tooth contact analysis shows that such gears are very sensitive to angular misalignment that leads to edge contact and the potential for high vibration. A new topology of tooth surfaces of helical gears that enables a favorable bearing contact and a reduced level of vibration is described. Methods for grinding of the helical gears with the new topology are proposed. A TCA (tooth contact analysis) program for simulation of meshing and contact of helical gears with the new topology has been developed. Numerical examples that illustrate the proposed ideas are discussed.
The Roots of Punitiveness in a Democracy

In contrast to one's normal conception of punitiveness as inconsistent with the principles of democracy, the political appeal associated with being ‘tough on crime’ can become very tempting when the public's concern about crime is aroused. For at least the 50 years from the mid‐1920s to the mid‐1970s, the incarceration rate in the US closely followed a stable pattern of 110 per hundred thousand population under the homeostatic control of the criminal justice system. Once crime became an issue of major public concern, incarceration rate increased about 6–8% per year, and is now the highest in the world, almost five times the previously stable rate. Alternative measures of punitiveness are considered, including expected time served per crime or per conviction; the US is also shown to be punitive on these measures, especially for the less serious crimes that have greater room for discretion. Since the political process is limited largely to changes in sentencing policy, those increases were reflected primari...
Association of Low Caregiver Health Literacy With Reported Use of Nonstandardized Dosing Instruments and Lack of Knowledge of Weight-Based Dosing

Objective Caregivers of young children frequently measure doses of liquid medications incorrectly. Use of nonstandardized dosing instruments and lack of knowledge that dosing is weight-based contribute to dosing errors. We sought to assess whether low caregiver health literacy was associated with these outcomes. Methods This was a cross-sectional analysis of caregivers presenting to an urban pediatric emergency room. Dependent variables were caregiver reported use of nonstandardized dosing tools and knowledge of weight-based dosing. The independent variable was caregiver health literacy (Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults [TOFHLA]). Results Two hundred ninety-two caregivers were assessed: 23.3% reported use of nonstandardized liquid dosing instruments, and 67.8% were unaware of weight-based dosing. Caregivers who were unaware of weight-based dosing were more likely to use nonstandardized dosing tools (28.3% vs 12.8%; P = .003). In unadjusted analyses, overall health literacy, reading comprehension, and numeracy were all associated with both dependent variables. In analyses adjusting for child age, health care experiences, and caregiver acculturation and education, inadequate/marginal overall health literacy was associated with lack of knowledge of weight-based dosing (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.3; P = .03), whereas lower reading comprehension was associated with both lack of knowledge (AOR 2.0; P = .03) and reported use of nonstandardized instrument (AOR 2.4; P = .007). Conclusions Low health literacy, in particular reading comprehension, was associated with reported use of nonstandardized dosing instruments and lack of knowledge regarding weight-based dosing. Both caregiver health literacy and sociodemographic factors should be considered in the design of interventions to prevent medication administration errors.
Ethical issues regarding mixed agency of military physicians

Abstract Military physicians' obligations to the military may compete with or even override their obligations to patients, especially during combat. Doctor/patient trust may be impaired when the soldier/patient's interests conflict with those of the military and the physician's loyalty is uncertain, and when the military physician treats civilians in occupied territories during mass casualties or, in part, for political gain. When the military physician is asked to perform research which could potentially be utilized for offensive purposes, obligations to the medical profession or to humanity may take precedence over his obligations to the military
Effects of partial duct obstruction and drainage on pancreatic function

Abstract The main pancreatic duct in 30 cats was partially occluded with a ligature. In 8–12 weeks, pancreatic function was studied after secretin and cholecystokinin (2 U/kg iv). Cats without duct obstruction served as controls. Fifteen of these cats then had distal pancreaticojejunostomy to drain the duct, and 3 months later, the secretory studies were repeated. After the secretory studies the degree of duct obstruction was measured. The animals were divided into two groups based on the results of the secretory studies. Animals with 75% obstruction showed impairment of both enzyme and bicarbonate secretion. The amount of functional impairment and the morphologic changes were dependent on the degree of obstruction. There was no improvement of pancreatic exocrine function after drainage of the duct.
Parallel geometric-algebraic multigrid on unstructured forests of octrees

We present a parallel multigrid method for solving variable-coefficient elliptic partial differential equations on arbitrary geometries using highly adapted meshes. Our method is designed for meshes that are built from an unstructured hexa-hedral macro mesh, in which each macro element is adaptively refined as an octree. This forest-of-octrees approach enables us to generate meshes for complex geometries with arbitrary levels of local refinement. We use geometric multigrid (GMG) for each of the octrees and algebraic multigrid (AMG) as the coarse grid solver. We designed our GMG sweeps to entirely avoid collectives, thus minimizing communication cost. We present weak and strong scaling results for the 3D variable-coefficient Poisson problem that demonstrate high parallel scalability. As a highlight, the largest problem we solve is on a non-uniform mesh with 100 billion unknowns on 262,144 cores of NCCS's Cray XK6 "Jaguar" in this solve we sustain 272 TFlops/s.
An R-dR-Technique operational distinction of the states of anxiety, stress, fear, etc.

Abstract This experiment aims to check the hypothesis that anxiety and stress are distinct state patterns, and to contribute to the separate measurement of anxiety as a state and as a trait. An R-and a dR-technique factor analysis of thirty-eight variables-chosen to mark, especially, anxiety, stress, and fear-was made on sixty-three “normal” students, with a month lapse. Six factors matched well across the simple structure R- and dR- resolutions: anxiety (U.I. 24), exvia-invia (U.I. 32), stress (P.U.I. 4), arousal-torpor (P.U.I. 1), overwroughtness (U.I. 23), and fatigue (P.U.I. 3); while fear response matched moderately. The main hypothesis is supported, but some provocative findings appear regarding the patterns of other states, and the distinction of anxiety as state and trait.
The effect of problem difficulty on hypothesis testing and an extension of Levine’s theory

Working hypothesis (Hs) and majority rules are examined under four conditions of problem difficulty achieved through combination of exposure or nonexposure of problem cards and informative feedback with two or three values per stimulus dimension. Memory aids facilitate solutions; intradimensional variability has no effect. Working Hs occur more often in exposed conditions; majority rules are equally distributed throughout conditions. Ss demonstrate H behavior on 91.6% of all opportunities; working Hs are more prevalent than majority rules; and the size of the H pool supports Levine’s subset sampling assumption. However, some Ss change Hs before and after “right” feedback. Analysis of such discrepant findings suggests an extension of Levine’s model.
Modernizing the Estonian Farmhouse, Redefining the Family, 1880s–1930s

In the nineteenth century, the transition from a Baltic-German-controlled manor-and-serf economy to individually owned farmsteads transformed all aspects of life including the spatial organization and form of farmhouses in the western provinces of Tsarist Russia. Agricultural experts and social reformers discussed how to update the traditional threshing-room dwelling house (rehielamu) into a healthy dwelling for successful farmers and, after the Estonian War of Independence, for new settlers. Using material culture such as contemporary plans, I show that changing household relationships, in addition to economic and technological factors, helped to transform the ancient rehielamu into a modern dwelling.
Combined aortic and visceral arterial reconstruction: Risks and results

The indications, morbidity, and efficacy of combined reconstruction of the abdominal aorta and visceral arteries (renal and superior mesenteric; excluding suprarenal aortic aneurysms) were analyzed retrospectively in 29 consecutive patients who underwent surgery from June 1984 through February 1990. Seventeen men and 12 women ages 32 to 76 years (mean, 66 years) were studied. Follow-up was complete in all patients to either death or calendar year 1989 to 1990 (mean, 31.9 months; range, 2 to 66 months). All patients underwent bypass of angiographically proven severe lesions of one renal artery (19 patients), both renal arteries (8 patients), or the superior mesenteric artery and renal arteries (2 patients), in concert with synthetic distal aortic replacement for occlusive disease (10 patients) or aneurysm (19 patients). Indications for renal artery repair included severe hypertension in 13 patients, ischemic renal insufficiency in 8 patients, and lesion morphology alone in 8 patients. Operative mortality rate was 3 of 29 (10.3%), and each death was the result of multisystem organ failure. Nonfatal complications occurred in 11 of the 26 survivors (42%), and this group differed significantly from the uncomplicated 15 patients only in having a higher mean preoperative serum creatinine (2.5 +/- 1.1 mg/dl vs 1.6 +/- 0.9 mg/dl, p = 0.04, t test). The mortality rate of patients with preoperative serum creatinine greater than or equal to 2.0 mg/dl, was 15.4% (2/13 patients), compared to 6.2% (1/16) in patients with creatinine less than 2.0 mg/dl. Three late deaths occurred (2 stroke, 1 cancer). Hypertension control improved in 64% of patients overall, and in 7 of 9 patients whose major operative indication was renovascular hypertension. Renal function remained stable or improved in 12 of 15 patients (80%) with renal insufficiency, but 3 patients progressed to require dialysis. Long-term graft patency was demonstrated by angiography or on duplex scan in all studied survivors (21 patients). Although operative risks are clearly increased compared to less complex vascular procedures, careful patient selection and management will yield a favorable outcome in most patients with such combined lesions.
DETERMINATION OF THE OPTIMUM STERILIZING DOSAGE FOR PINK BOLLWORMS TREATED AS PUPAE WITH GAMMA RADIATION

The effect of gamma radiation from cobalt-60 on pupae and adults of the pink bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders), following pupal exposure was determined. Pupal sensitivity to gamma radiation was dependent on age at time of treatment the older the pupae, the Iess susceptible they were. When 1-and 3-day-old pupae were irradiated, dosages inducing complete sterility also caused some pupal mortality and appreciable moth damage; however, irradiation of 5- or 7-day-old pupae induced almost complete sterility without pupal mortality or adult malformation. When males from irradiated 7-day-old pupae were mated with untreated females, complete sterility was achieved at 55 kr, and within the range of 30 to 60 kr, no more than 3% of the oviposited eggs hatched at anyone exposure dosage. Exposure at 40 kr was sufficient to sterilize females. Longevity of males from 7-day-old pupae treated with 35 through 90 kr was significantly shorter than that of the control.