cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Light Higgses at the Tevatron and at the LHC and Observable Dark Matter in SUGRA and D Branes

Abstract Sparticle landscapes in mSUGRA, in SUGRA models with nonuniversalities (NUSUGRA), and in D-brane models are analyzed. The analysis exhibits the existence of Higgs Mass Patterns (HPs) (for μ > 0 ) where the CP odd Higgs could be the next heavier particle beyond the LSP and sometimes even lighter than the LSP. It is shown that the Higgs production cross sections from the HPs are typically the largest enhancing the prospects for their detection at the LHC. Indeed it is seen that the recent Higgs production limits from CDF/DO are beginning to put constraints on the HPs. It is also seen that the B s → μ + μ − limits constrain the HPs more stringently. Predictions of the Higgs production cross sections for these patterns at the LHC are made. We compute the neutralino–proton cross sections σ ( χ ˜ 1 0 p ) for dark matter experiments and show that the largest σ ( χ ˜ 1 0 p ) also arise from the HPs and further that the HPs and some of the other patterns are beginning to be constrained by the most recent data from CDMS and from Xenon10 experiments. Finally, it is shown that the prospects are bright for the discovery of dark matter with σ ( χ ˜ 1 0 p ) in the range 10 − 44 ± 0.5 cm 2 due to a “Wall” consisting of a copious number of parameter points in the Chargino Patterns (CPs) where the chargino is the NLSP. The Wall, which appears in all models considered (mSUGRA, NUSUGRA and D-branes) and runs up to about a TeV in LSP mass, significantly enhances the chances for the observation of dark matter by SuperCDMS, ZEPLIN-MAX, or LUX experiments which are expected to achieve a sensitivity of 10 −45 cm 2 or more.
Visualizing High-Order Surface Geometry

We have derived parameters that describe the higher-order geometric behavior of smooth surfaces. Our parameters are similar in spirit to the principal directions and principal curvatures that succinctly capture second-order shape behavior. We derive our parameters from a cylindrical Fourier decomposition around the surface normal. We present a visualization program for studying the influence of the various terms of different degrees on the shape of the local neighborhood of a surface point. We display a small surface patch that is controlled by two sets of parameters: One set is a simple polynomial description of the surface geometry in Cartesian coordinates. The other one is a set of Fourier components grouped by angular frequency and by their phase shifts. Manipulating the values in one parameter set changes the geometry of the patch and also updates the parameter values of the other set.
Thermodynamic analysis of Xe/Kr selectivity in over 137000 hypothetical metal–organic frameworks

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous crystals with the potential to improve many industrial gas separation processes. Because there is a practically unlimited number of different MOFs, which vary in their pore geometry and chemical composition, it is challenging to find the best MOF for a given application. Here, we applied high-throughput computational methods to rapidly explore thousands of possible MOFs, given a library of starting materials, in the context of Xe/Kr separation. We generated over 137 000 structurally diverse hypothetical MOFs from a library of chemical building blocks and screened them for Xe/Kr separation. For each MOF, we calculated geometric properties via Delaunay tessellation and predicted thermodynamic Xe/Kr adsorption behavior via multicomponent grand canonical Monte Carlo simulations. Specifically, we calculated the pore limiting diameter, largest cavity diameter, accessible void volume, as well as xenon and krypton adsorption at 1.0, 5.0 and 10 bar at 273 K. From these data we show that MOFs with pores just large enough to fit a single xenon atom, and having morphologies resembling tubes of uniform width, are ideal for Xe/Kr separation. Finally, we compare our generated MOFs to several known structures (IRMOF-1, HKUST-1, ZIF-8, Pd-MOF, & MOF-505) and conclude that significantly improved materials remain to be synthesized. All crystal structure files are freely available for download and browsing in an online database.
Position determination from simultaneous observations of artificial satellites - An optimization of parameters

Position determination from simultaneous observation of Pageos and Geos 2 satellites, assuming known covariance matrix and applied corrections
Snow versus Rain: Looking beyond the “Magic” Numbers

Abstract Compelling evidence suggests that various lower-tropospheric thickness calculations (e.g., 1000–850- and 850–700-mb thickness) should be considered a vital element of wintertime precipitation-type forecasts. The traditional 1000–500-mb thickness often does not adequately resolve lower-tropospheric temperature profiles, which are so critical in the determination of precipitation types. During a three-winter period (1989–92) for Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Albany, New York, rain events were observed with 1000–500-mb thickness values as low as 5220 m and 850-mb temperatures as low as −7°C, both values of which are well below critical-thickness thresholds, traditionally used to delineate frozen versus liquid precipitation events. One particular parameter, the 850–700-mb thickness, was occasionally more valuable as a predictor than the 1000–500-mb thickness. Snow rarely occurred with a 850–700-mb thickness > 1550 m. This study uses surface and radiosonde data to generate an array of layer-thickness ...
Cortical inhibitory neuron basket cells: from circuit function to disruption

Despite representing only ∼10–15% of the total cortical and hippocampal neuronal population, local circuit GABAergic inhibitory interneurons represent one of the most diverse cell types in the mammalian central nervous system. In the hippocampal formation alone upwards of 20 distinct cell types have been described, with the number rising each year (Freund & Buzsaki, 1996; Klausberger & Somogyi, 2008; Tricoire et al. 2011). The pressure to diversify is undoubtedly a consequence of the myriad roles played by local circuit interneurons in precisely shaping and modulating features of both local and global circuits. Indeed precision in the circuit largely relies on the laminar positioning of their somato-dendritic axis to receive appropriate afferent input combined with their axonal output, which targets both principal cell and interneuron subcellular compartments.
Nonlocal dislocation based plasticity incorporating gradients of hardening

Abstract A thermodynamically consistent framework for the gradient approach in plasticity is proposed. The second order gradient of both the kinematic and the isotropic hardening measures is introduced through the Helmholtz free energy and through the plastic potential function. The macroscale gradients allow one to address the nonlocal behavior of materials and interpret the collective behavior of defects such as dislocations. The macroscale internal state variable and the corresponding gradient term are assumed to be independent internal state variables with respect to each other with different physical interpretations and initial conditions which allows these two different physical phenomena to be identified separately. The Aifantis–Walgraef dislocation model is used to give micromechanically based definitions for the nonlocal coefficients.
Geotechnical Physical Modeling for Education: Learning Theory Approach

As physical modeling sees increasing use in geotechnical engineering education, there is a need for a strategic approach for integrating this powerful simulation technique into courses in a way that ensures the greatest benefit for students. For this reason, a learning theory approach, which recognizes the natural learning cycle of students, has been developed. The approach is based on a modified version of the learning theorist David Kolb’s “theory of experiential learning.” The approach emphasizes a variety of learning styles and thus is appealing to a broad range of students. The approach is relatively easy to apply to traditional geotechnical engineering coursework and requires only a modest effort to adopt. It is expected that by using this approach when designing course modules, instructors can increase the likelihood that comprehensive learning will take place. While this paper focuses on physical modeling for geotechnical engineering, the approach presented here has educational applications to an ...
Hirulog peptides with scissile bond replacements resistant to thrombin cleavage.

Abstract Using the natural protein hirudin as a model, a novel class of synthetic peptide inhibitors were recently designed. These inhibitors, ‘hirulogs’, retain the carboxy terminal Hir53–64 domain that interacts with the anion binding exosite of thrombin, connected via an oligoglycyl spacer unit to a catalytic site-directed moiety modeled on the sequence [D]Phe-Pro-Arg-X. The scissile Arg-X bond bond of substrate-like inhibitors has been modified to the proteolytic-resistant functions as β-homo amino acids Argψ[CH2CONH] X (2) and reduced bond analogues Argψ[CH2N]X (3). Both classes of compounds demonstrate inhibition of thrombin amidolytic activity, and this active-site inhibition is highly sensitive to the P1′ residue X. Thus these hirulog deriviatives are resistant to thrombin proteolysis while maintaining substrate-like interactions with the active center. Finally, hirulog derivatives with non-cleavable replacements of the scissile bond are found to be effective anticoagulant agents.
SU‐FF‐T‐32: Imaged‐Based Simulation Technique To Determine Stepping Source Dwell Position For MammoSite(r) Brachytherapy Procedures

Purpose: Incorrect dwell position for the stepping source in MammoSite® radiation therapy system would result in severe dose error to the treated volume. In many centers, CT‐simulators have replaced the fluoroscopic simulators. An alternative method must be developed for this purpose. This project evaluates the feasibility of CT‐based simulation to determine the dwell position for the stepping source of the Nucletron® High‐Dose Rate (HDR) unit. Method and Materials: A MammoSite® balloon applicator is placed in the surgical cavity intraoperatively at the time of segmented mastectomy for breast cancer. The balloon is inflated to near spherical shape with saline solution mixed with a small amount of radiographic contrast to aid in visualization. After recovery, the patient is brought to the radiation oncology facility to determine the quality of the implant and also to determine the stepping source dwell position. A dummy source train is initially inserted in the applicator and pushed to the distal end. The distance is measured using the Nucletron® measuring tool. CT scans of the breast was taken with 1 mm slice thickness. After the images have been acquired, a virtual 3‐dimensional breast is generated. Based on the virtual breast, the path of the dummy source train inside the applicator is assessed. Results: A digitally reconstructed radiography(DRR) that maximizes the projection of the pathway is created. A method is formulated to determine the center of the sphere and marks on the source pathway. The dwell position is determined by subtracting the difference of distance between the distal seed and center of the sphere from the maximum source distance as set on the HDR unit. Conclusion: For institutions where the fluoroscopic simulator has been replaced by a CT‐simulator, imaged‐based simulation allows an effective method of determining the stepping source dwell position for MammoSite® brachytherapy procedures.
Duality in massive lepton-pair production

Abstract Using duality in the q 2 variable we relate massive lepton-pair production in proton-proton collisions at all values of m 2 (lepton-pair mass squared) and s to the inclusive production of ϱ(ω) mesons.
A Trigonometric Approach To The Reduction Of Orthogonal Flash Radiographs

The mathematical solution for the true positions of features in space from the position of their images on pairs of radiographs has been discussed in Ballistic Research Laboratory reports by Grabarek and Herr (BRL TN 1634, September 1966, AD 807619), and by Henry C. Dubin (BRL MR 2470, April 1975, AD B003797L, now available for unlimited distribution). A truly general solution should not require, or be limited to, orthogonality of the image pairs. Dubin provides such a solution. Because of errors in setup and measurement, the two lines presumed to connect the respective source and image points through the common object point do not necessarily intersect. Using vector notation and partial derivatives, he obtains the line of minimum length between these two vectors. The midpoint of this line is the best estimate for the object position, and the length is a measure of the error of the estimate. The redundant image coordinate in Dubin's method contributes to increasing the accuracy of the estimate of the position of features. The solution of Grabarek and Herr uses analytic geometry and the assumption that the two lines between the respective sources and images intersect, and requires an orthogonal radiographic setup. This approach forgoes generality and some available accuracy. Driven by the need to provide as simple an approach as possible, this paper presents two similar derivations. The author uses analytic geometry to rederive the equations of Grabarek and Herr from a simpler perspective. The form of the solution provides a conceptual bridge to a more direct derivation by the author, using trigonometry. Both derivations are for orthogonal radiographic setups. The trigonometric approach does not require complicated computation of magnification factors, is more easily understood in terms of the geometry of the setup, and is easily implemented in computer or calculator programs to reduce orthogonal radiographs.
Dynamics of populations with changing rates: generalization of the stable population theory

Abstract A general and complete exposition of the dynamics of populations with changing vital rates is given in the discrete time formulation. Results obtained are stronger than Lopez's or Hajnal's. In addition to the proof of existence of limits, an explicit expression for the age distribution is obtained by considering forward products of population projection matrices, while an explicit expression for the generalized reproductive values is obtained by considering backward products. The forward and backward characteristic equations respectively determine the forward and backward growth rates. The relative age distribution is compared to the alternative expression of Y. J. Kim (1986, Demography 23 (3), 451–461) , which is the discrete version of S. H. Preston and A. J. Coale (1982, Pop. Index 48 (2), 217–259) .
The Art and Science of Microstructural Control

A historical perspective on the development of physical metallurgy is presented. Two recent advances in the control of microstructure, rapid solidification and artificial multilayers, are discussed. Rapid solidification has produced metallic glasses and metastable crystalline systems, and has led to important technological and scientific discoveries. The synthesis of artificial multilayers by direct deposition represents the ultimate control of such microstructures.
The Early Ordovician Beothuka terranova (Radiolaria) faunal assemblage in western Newfoundland

TheBeothuka terranova radiolarian assemblage from theIsograptus victoriae lunatus Biozone of western Newfoundland is described and compared with the slightly older assemblage from theDidymograptellus bifidus Biozone of Spitsbergen. Specimens ofBeothuka terranova are described for the first time from material preserved in silica with little diagenetic changes. In the Spitsbergen specimens the skeleton is replaced by pyrite, destroying most of the original details and thickening distinctly fine bars and spines. The Newfoundland assemblage lacks specimens ofSphaeroentactinia, while possible specimens ofSvalbardospiculum andProtoentactinia sp. are represented by juveniles.Nyfrieslandia specimens are common in the sample. Faunal differences may relate to preservational factors and, in part indicate biostratigraphic differences. Several new species are described, some in open nomenclature:Antygopora irregularia n. sp.,Labyrinthia robusta n. sp.
Crystal structure at 2.2 Å resolution of the MHC-related neonatal Fc receptor

The three-dimensional structure of the rat neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is similar to the structure of molecules of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). The counterpart of the MHC peptide-binding site is closed in FcRn, making the FcRn groove incapable of binding peptides. A dimer of FcRn heterodimers seen in the crystals may represent a receptor dimer that forms when the Fc portion of a single immunoglobulin binds. An alternative use of the MHC fold for immune recognition is indicated by the FcRn and FcRn/Fc co-crystal structures.
Mobilization of Iron from Coal Fly Ash Was Dependent upon the Particle Size and the Source of Coal

Particulate air pollution, including coal fly ash, contains iron, and some of the pathological effects after inhalation may be due to reactive oxygen species produced by iron-catalyzed reactions. The objective of this study was to determine whether iron, present in coal fly ash, was mobilized, leading to ferritin induction in human airway epithelial cells, and whether the size of the particles affected the amount of iron mobilized. Three types of coal were used to generate the three size fractions of fly ash collected. The Utah coal fly ash was generated from a bituminous b coal, the Illinois coal fly ash from a bituminous c coal, and the North Dakota coal fly ash from a lignite a coal. Three size fractions were studied to compare the amount of iron mobilized in human airway epithelial (A549) cells and by citrate in cell-free suspensions. The size fractions selected were fine ( 2.5 microm fractions. Further, the mobilized iron was in the Fe(III) form. To determine if iron associated with the coal fly ash could be mobilized by A549 cells, cells were treated with coal fly ash, and the amount of the iron storage protein ferritin was determined after 24 h. Ferritin levels were increased by as much as 11.9-fold in cells treated with coal fly ash. With two of the three types of coal studied, more ferritin was induced in cells treated with the 2.5 microm fractions. Further, inhibition of the endocytosis of the coal fly ash by the cells resulted in ferritin levels that were near that of the untreated cells, suggesting that iron was mobilized intracellularly, not in the culture medium. The results of this study suggest that differences in particle size and speciation of iron may affect the release of iron in human airway epithelial cells.
An approach to air traffic density estimation and its application in aircraft trajectory planning

In this paper air traffic density is introduced as a new method for predicting and resolving aircraft conflicts. Based on a simplified stochastic differential equation model of aircraft dynamics, a simulation-based method is employed to predict the likelihood of aircraft presence in different part of the airspace. Air traffic density generated thus indicates the congestion zones to be avoided. The conflict resolution is then performed by solving an optimization trajectory planning problem. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the efficacy of the proposed algorithms.
Distributed core selection with QoS support

Core-based routing with quality of service (QoS) support is essential in facilitating multi-sender multimedia multicast applications such as video conferencing and virtual collaboration applications. In this paper, we introduce a new distributed core selection protocol that has the following desirable properties. First, the protocol utilizes a new distributed primary core selection algorithm that selects as many primary cores per multicast group as necessary, to maximize the number of group members with satisfied QoS requirements. Second, the protocol is distributed, preventing a single router from becoming a hot spot and a single point of failure during core selection. Lastly, the protocol employs a distributed backup core selection algorithm to provide quick recovery should some primary cores fail. Our analytical experiments show that the proposed protocol significantly satisfies more group members with noticeably less communication overhead than a recent core selection algorithm with QoS support using a single core.
Bicuspid aortic valve morphology when associated with coarctation of the aorta

Thirteen children and young adults with coarctation of the aorta as their principal cardiovascular abnormality, 11 with bicuspid aortic valves, were evaluated by orifice-view aortography to evaluate their aortic valvular morphology. For comparison 30 individuals with aortic valvular deformities but without coarctation of the aorta were similarly studied. Two distinct forms of bicuspid valves could be identified characterized by either the appearance of gross inequality of size of the two valve leaflets or an appearance wherein each leaflet closely approximated the size of the other, thus equally bicuspid. Excepting two individuals with normal, tricuspid, aortic valves, all of the patients with coarctation of the aorta had equally bicuspid aortic valves which contrasted to the group without coarctation in which the unequally bicuspid type predominated. This difference in bicuspid aortic valve morphology associated with coarctation of the aorta suggests a different developmental process involving the aortic valve as opposed to the situation in individuals without coarctation.
Modified Segmental Spinal Instrumentation in Repair of Spinal Fractures and Luxations in Dogs

A modified segmental spinal stabilization technique was used in four dogs weighing 10 to 56 kg with thoracolumbar and lumbosacral spinal fractures/luxations. A Steinmann pin was bent to encircle the dorsal spinous processes and was wired together with longitudinal pins to the cranial articular facets and dorsal spinous processes in the thoracolumbar application. The central pin was omitted, and the longitudinal pins were bent at a right angle and passed through the ilial wings in the lumbosacral application. Fracture fixation and stabilization were excellent in all dogs. One broken pin was detected in one dog after 18 months. No other complications due to the spinal instrumentation were observed. Neurologic recovery was excellent in two dogs, good in one dog, and fair in one dog.
Lack of transovarial transmission of Bartonella by rodent fleas.

In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Morick et al. (2011) present an interesting study of acquisition and transmission of Bartonella by Xenopsylla ramesis fleas (Fig. 1) which infest naturally wild desert rodents from the Negev desert. A major issue with vector-borne diseases and vector-borne infection is to know whether the vector can also be a natural reservoir and transmit the infectious agent transovarially, allowing the infection to be perpetuated through successive generations of vectors. The desert flea, X. ramesis, is a flea species parasitizing gerbilline rodents in the deserts of the Middle East (Fielden et al. 2004). Figure 1. The desert flea, Xenopsylla ramesis. Photograph credit: Michael Hastriter (Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA). Download figure to PowerPoint
Designs for Ultra-Tiny, Special-Purpose Nanoelectronic Circuits

Designs and simulation results are given for two small, special-purpose nanoelectronic circuits. The area of special-purpose nanoelectronics has not been given much consideration previously, though much effort has been devoted to the development of general-purpose nanoelectronic systems, i.e., nanocomputers. This paper demonstrates via simulation that the nanodevices and nanofabrication techniques developed recently for general-purpose nanocomputers also might be applied with substantial benefit to implement less complex nanocircuits targeted at specific applications. Nanocircuits considered here are a digital controller for the leg motion on an autonomous millimeter-scale robot and an analog nanocircuit for amplification of signals in a tiny optoelectronic sensor or receiver. Simulations of both nanocircuit designs show significant improvement over microelectronic designs in metrics such as footprint area and power consumption. These improvements are obtained from designs employing nanodevices and nanofabrication techniques that already have been demonstrated experimentally. Thus, the results presented here suggest that such improvements might be realized in the near term for important, special-purpose applications.
Norbert Elias, the civilizing process and penal development in modern society

For much of the twentieth century the punishment of offenders in modern society came to be administered on a scientific, rational basis with policy driven largely by expert knowledge. The anonymity of the prison, as a place for reflection and rehabilitation, steadily replaced the pre-modern drama and spectacle of punishment to the human body. Recently, though, some modern societies (particularly those in the Anglophone world) have seen recourse to more expressive and severe penalties, driven more by public opinion than by expert knowledge. Other modern societies, however (particularly the Scandinavian countries) remain largely immune to these trends. This article outlines and explores these contrasting trends and developments and uses Norbert Elias's work on the civilizing process to explain them.
Inhibition by calcium of beta adrenoceptor mediated cAMP responses in isolated bovine corneal epithelial cells

The increases in adenosine 3',5' monophosphate (cAMP) content were measured in isolated bovine corneal epithelial cells in response to either adrenergic agonists or adenylate cyclase stimulation. The beta selective adrenergic agonist, isoproterenol, and the adrenergic agonists, norepinephrine as well as epinephrine elicited large increases in cAMP accumulation. At their maximum effective concentrations, the respective increases were 16-fold, 6.6-fold and 4.7-fold. These stimulatory effects were completely inhibited by the beta selective adrenergic antagonist, propranolol. Similarly forskolin increased cAMP content more than 3-fold. These increases and the previous identification of beta adrenoceptors in fresh intact bovine corneas as well as cells in culture indicate that this enzymatic dissociation procedure does not affect the cAMP responses to either adrenergic agonists or forskolin. The relationship was considered between increases in Ca2+ concentration and the effects of either isoproterenol or forskolin, on cAMP accumulation. There were no changes in any of the cAMP responses at bathing solution Ca2+ concentrations between 0.01 microM and 1 microM. However, in cells permeabilized to Ca2+ with 10 microM ionomycin, increases within this concentration range depressed the baseline levels of cAMP content. Furthermore, the stimulatory effects of both forskolin and isoproterenol on cAMP accumulation were significantly blunted in this concentration range. These blunting effects by Ca2+ were not the result of any measurable decrease in ATP content. This negative relationship between increases in Ca2+ concentration and increases in cAMP content indicates that changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration could modulate the second messenger function of cAMP linked to these agents.
Secondary Prevention of Coronary Heart Disease in the Elderly

OBJECTIVE:To review relevant literature supporting the use of aspirin, β-blockers, lipid-lowering agents, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors for the secondary prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD) in an elderly patient population aged ≥65 years.DATA SOURCES:A MEDLINE search (1990–May 2003) was conducted using the key terms coronary heart disease, secondary prevention and elderly.STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:Primary and tertiary literature relating to the use of aspirin, β-blockers, lipid-lowering agents, and ACE inhibitors in the elderly were reviewed.DATA SYNTHESIS:CHD is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in persons ≥65 years of age, and the use of pharmacologic agents has created a considerable opportunity for reducing recurrent events in those with established disease. This, combined with the aging of the US population, is creating an increase in the number of older adults eligible for secondary prevention. In 2002, the American Heart Association issued a scientif...
Equatorial Pacific productivity and dust flux during the mid-Pleistocene climate transition

Received 6 May 2005; revised 30 August 2005; accepted 19 September 2005; published 17 December 2005. [1] We present a helium isotope record for core TT013-114PC from the central equatorial Pacific (140� W, 4� N, 4432 m water depth) spanning a period of 1 million years. We focus on the time interval from 560 to 800 kyr, largely coinciding with the mid-Pleistocene climate transition (MPT) when the dominant period of the Earth’s climate variability shifted from 41 kyr to 100 kyr. The terrigenous 4 He concentrations from our study correlate very well with published titanium concentrations in this core strongly supporting the use of terrigenous 4 He as a monitor of continental dust. Normalizing titanium and terrigenous 4 He concentrations to 3 He suggests that the dust supply during the MPT was approximately 30% lower compared to the subsequent period (560–100 kyr). The 3 He-normalized barium, aluminum and phosphorus concentrations, trace elements with a predominantly biogenic source in these sediments, are relatively constant. This is in contrast to previous studies that reported an apparent rise of titanium-normalized productivity proxies. Rather than a significant increase in productivity during the MPT, we conclude that the dust flux to the central equatorial Pacific was reduced and that the export productivity was approximately constant during this period of climate reorganization.
Efficacy and safety of midodrine in the treatment of dialysis-associated hypotension

Dialysis-associated hypotension is a morbid problem in haemodialysis patients. Employment of midodrine at the start of dialysis has reduced the severity and frequency of hypotensive episodes in these patients. Through selective alpha(1)-adrenergic receptor-binding, desglymidodrine, the active metabolite of midodrine, raises blood pressure by enhancing venous and arterial tone. This medication has been demonstrated to be effective and safe in the acute and chronic treatment of haemodialysis-associated hypotension in end stage renal disease patients.
Adaptive system identification using cumulants

A lattice version of the recursive instrumental variable method for adaptive parameter identification of ARMA (autoregressive moving-average) processes is developed. Appropriate choice of the instrumental variables leads to cumulant-based AR parameter estimates. Cumulant-based normal equations may be obtained by using nonconventional orthogonality conditions in the linear prediction problem. The development leads to a pair of lattices, one excited by the observed process y(n), and the other by the instrumental process z(n). The lattices are coupled through order-update and time-update equations. The lattice structure yields the AR compensated residual time series. Hence, adaptive versions of cumulant-based MA parameter identification algorithms are directly applicable. Some convergence results are presented. >
Reactivity of biologically important reduced pyridines VI. Lack of through-resonance stabilization in the ferricyanide-mediated oxidation of substituted 1-Phenyl-1,4-Dihydronicotinamides

Abstract Bronsted-type analysis for the log of the reaction rates for ferricyanide-mediated oxidation for a series of 1-(4-substituted phenyl-1, 4-dihydronicotinamide and the pKa's for the corresponding component anilines produced a linear (r=0.993) relationship over the range of p-N(CH 3 ) 2 , to p-CF 3 . This observation is consistent with the importance of the initial electron loss in determining the reaction rate. One compound studied i.e., 1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1,4-dihydronicotinamide, was conspicuous in that it did not lie on the calculated regression line even though Hammett analysis revealed no deviation from linearity for this species. This situation was suggested to be due to steric and other restriction to planarity of the 1-phenyl substituents. These factors would preclude direct interaction of the 4- phenyl moiety with the heterocyclic pyridine nitrogen. These conclusions were based on experimental and theoretical (AM1 and MNDO) semi-empirical molecular orbital studies.
Host Nuclear Factor-κB Activation Potentiates Lung Cancer Metastasis

Epidemiologic and experimental evidence suggests that a link exists between inflammation and cancer, although this relationship has only recently begun to be elucidated for lung cancer, the most frequently fatal human tumor. Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), a transcription factor that controls innate immune responses in the lungs, has been implicated as an important determinant of cancer cell proliferative and metastatic potential; however, its role in lung tumorigenesis is uncertain. Here, we specifically examine the role of NF-kappaB-induced airway inflammation in lung cancer metastasis using a model of intravenous injection of Lewis lung carcinoma cells into immunocompetent C57Bl/6 mice. Induction of lung inflammation by direct and specific NF-kappaB activation in airway epithelial cells potentiates lung adenocarcinoma metastasis. Moreover, we identify resident lung macrophages as crucial effectors of lung susceptibility to metastatic cancer growth. We conclude that NF-kappaB activity in host tissue is a significant factor in the development of lung metastasis.
Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Studies of GaAs Heteroepitaxial Growth on Si

We discuss the benefits and limitations of scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) for use in studies of the early stages of heteroepitaxy. We describe a system merging in vacuo an MBE, STM, XPS, LEED, etc. We present results for the initial stages of GaAs growth on vicinal Si(100), including As termination, Ga capping and subsequent 2D and 3D competition.
Cholelithiasis and aortic reconstruction: The problem of simultaneous surgical therapy: Conclusions from a personal series

Abstract From 1976 to 1983, 682 patients have undergone aortic reconstruction at Parkland Memorial Hospital and the Veterans Administration Hospital in Dallas, Texas. Thirty-five patients (5.1%) had a biliary tract operation performed before, during, or after their aortic procedure. Fourteen percent of patients had bacteria in the bile and 11.4% needed common bile duct exploration. Twelve patients had their aortic reconstruction first. Biliary pancreatitis developed postoperatively in one patient. Two patients who had infected prostheses removed had acalculous cholecystitis after operation and one had jaundice and fever 3 years after operation, but no biliary disease was found. Twenty-one patients had the biliary procedure first. Four patients were operated on for suspected aneurysm rupture an average of 18 months after operation. There was one true rupture; this patient had no gallstones. One patient had acute aortic thrombosis 10 days after emergency operation for acute cholecystitis. Only two patients underwent combined operative procedures; both were patients with acute aortic problems in whom chronic and subacute biliary disease was found. Eight operative deaths occurred, all in the patients undergoing aortic procedures. There were no ruptured aneurysms or acute biliary problems needing emergency operation in any patient with cholelithiasis. On the basis of our experience, we believe that concomitant cholecystectomy and aortic reconstructions rarely need to be performed and then only in those patients in whom the risk of not treating both biliary and aortic conditions is greater than the operative risks. In these circumstances, cholecystostomy should be considered to decrease operative time and the risk of graft contamination. (J VASC SURG 1986;4:345-50.)
A decade of reduced gram-negative infections and mortality associated with improved isolation of burned patients.

Objective: To compare the incidence of gram-negative bacteremia (GNB) and mortality in patients with large burns (≥20% of total body surface) hospitalized in either an open ward (OW) or a single-bed isolation (1W) environment. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: The US Army Institute of Surgical Research, Burn Center, Ft Sam Houston, Tex. Patients: Two thousand five hundred nineteen consecutive patients with large burns divided into two 10-year cohorts. Patients in the first cohort period were treated under OW conditions; patients in the second cohort period, under IW conditions. Infection (bacteremia) data were from a laboratory database. A microbial surveillance system was used to monitor patient isolation. Mortality was compared with predicted mortality derived by logistic regression of outcome, burn size, and age of patients without bacteremia in the study. Main Outcome Measures: Presence of GNB and survival. Results: The incidence of GNB was higher in the OW cohort (31.2%) than the 1W cohort (12.0%) ( P P P Conclusion: Improvements in isolation of burned patients were associated with decreased incidence of GNB, delayed postinjury time of GNB, and improved survival. Improved survival is likely related to decreased susceptibility as a result of longer exposure to the benefits of treatment and wound closure. These results suggest that, in patients with severe burn injuries, gram-negative infections and the related mortality can largely be prevented. (Arch Surg. 1994;129:1306-1309)
Clinical potential of gene mutations in lung cancer

Lung cancer is the most common cancer type worldwide and the leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States. The majority of newly diagnosed patients present with late stage metastatic lung cancer that is inoperable and resistant to therapies. High-throughput genomic technologies have made the identification of genetic mutations that promote lung cancer progression possible. Identification of the mutations that drive lung cancer provided new targets for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment and led to the development of targeted therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors that can be used to combat the molecular changes that promote cancer progression. Development of targeted therapies is not the only clinical benefit of gene analysis studies. Biomarkers identified from gene analysis can be used for early lung cancer detection, determine patient’s prognosis and response to therapy, and monitor disease progression. Biomarkers can be used to identify the NSCLC patient population that would most benefit from treatment (targeted therapies or chemotherapies), providing clinicians tools that can be used to develop a personalized treatment plan. This review explores the clinical potential of NSCLC genetic studies on diagnosing and treating NSCLC.
Decomposition of Alkylsilanes on Silicon Surfaces Using Transmission Ftir Spectroscopy

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) transmission spectroscopy was used to monitor the decomposition of alkylsilanes such as diethylsilane (DES) [(CH3 CH2)2SiH2], di-t-butylsilane (DTBS) [((CH3)3C)2SiH2] and ethylsilane (ES) [CH3CH2SiH3 on high-surface-area porous silicon samples. The FTIR spectra revealed that tKe akylsilanes dissociatively adsorb on porous silicon at 300 K to form SiH and Si-alkyl species. As the silicon surface was progressively annealed, the Si-alkyl species decomposed and produced gas phase ethylene (DES,ES) or isobutylene (DTBS). The decomposition of the alkyl group was accompanied by the growth of additional SiH surface species. These reaction products were consistent with a β-hydride elimination reaction. Above 700 K, the SiH surface species decreased concurrently with the desorption of H2 from the porous silicon surface. The uptake of surface species was also monitored at various adsorption temperatures to determine the optimal exposure temperatures for carbon-free silicon deposition. Carbon contamination was not detected at adsorption temperatures below 640 K prior to H2 desorption. Because the alkylsilane adsorption process is self-limiting at temperatures below 640 K, alkylsilanes may be useful molecular precursors for the atomic layer epitaxy (ALE) of silicon.
The effects of ITI interpolated stimuli and CS intensity on classical conditioning of the nictitating membrane response of the rabbit

The effects of white noise bursts of 5 sec duration, interpolated 30 sec into a 1 min ITI, were compared on the conditioning rates of Ss trained under high and low CS intensities. The interpolated stimulus produced a significant decrement in conditioning at the high but not at the low intensity value. It is suggested that higher CS intensities may shorten the time available for ITI consolidation.
‘Better one tiger than ten thousand rabid rats’: Russian media coverage of the Syrian conflict

The West and Russia have been bitterly divided over the conflict in Syria. Whereas Western powers and their Arab allies have backed the opposition and sought the toppling of the Assad regime, Russia has been seen to support the Syrian leader and thwart diplomatic initiatives at the United Nations. In order to better understand what underpins these diametrically opposed positions, this article presents the findings of a detailed analysis of Russian media coverage of the conflict. Focusing on three prominent Russian newspapers and comparing them with three Western counterparts, particular emphasis is placed on their reporting of regime violence, the nature and actions of the opposition, and Russia’s own role in the conflict. In so doing, a clear picture emerges of how starkly different the Syrian conflict appears to a Russian audience.
Waves of Halogen–Halogen Bond Formation in the Cocrystallization of Hexabromobenzene and 1,2,4,5-Tetrabromobenzene with C70

The single crystal X-ray structures of three well-ordered cocrystals of C70 with brominated benzenes are examined. The crystals are those of C70·C6Br6·C7H8, C70·C6Br6·C6H6, and C70·2(1,2,4,5-tetrabromobenzene)·CS2. While all three structures exhibit extensive van der Waals interactions, the presence of a wavelike C–Br---Br structural motif is a distinctive part of the cocrystal assembly. In these three crystal structures, it is observed that the Br---Br interactions are a cross between type I and II halogen–halogen bonds. In our hands, this structural motif does not occur in structures with C60.
Publication of sponsored symposiums in medical journals.

Abstract Background. An increasing proportion of spending by the pharmaceutical industry has gone to funding symposiums that are published by peer-reviewed medical journals. This study tests the hypothesis that such sponsorship, particularly by a single pharmaceutical company, is associated with a promotional orientation of the symposium and a distortion of the peer-review process. Methods. We counted the symposiums published in 58 journals of clinical medicine and surveyed the journal editors regarding their policies for symposium issues. We analyzed the symposium issues that appeared in the 11 journals that published the most symposiums in order to determine the sponsor or sponsors, the topics, whether the titles were misleading, whether brand names were used, and whether the featured drugs were classified by the Food and Drug Administration as innovative or approved. Results. The number of symposiums published per year increased steadily from 1966 through 1989. forty-two percent of those analyzed (262 ...
Fracture Failure Analysis of the Shock Absorber Bracket

Objective To investigate the cause for fracture failure of the shock absorber bracket. Methods The properties and cause of the fracture failure of the shock absorber bracket were determined by means of chemical composition analysis,mechanical performance analysis,SEM analysis,metallographic examination and hydrogen content test. Results The fracture failure of shock absorber bracket belonged to hydrogen embrittlement. Conclusion The permeation of excessive hydrogen during the acid washing process of the material induced hydrogen embrittlement and fracture failure. In order to prevent similar failure accidents,this paper provided some guiding advice.
Metabolism of Halogenated Compounds—Biodehalogenation

The metabolism of halogenated hydrocarbons in vivo is initiated predominantly by two classes of enzymes—the cytochrome P-450-dependent monooxygenases and the glutathione S-transferases. These enzymes, in general, convert nonexcretable lipophilic compounds ultimately to hydrophilic metabolites that can be eliminated in urine and/or bile. For example, oxidative replacement of halogen with hydroxyl followed by glucuronide formation is a major pathway for detoxification and excretion. On the other hand, processes initiated by these enzymes are often responsible for conversion of a relatively harmless substrate into a more toxic or carcinogenic intermediate. Bioactivation of xenobiotics to toxic and/or carcinogenic metabolites has been the subject of extensive research and will be discussed in this chapter. The role of deiodinases in thyroid hormone function was discussed in some detail in Chapter 6. This will be reconsidered briefly in this chapter in the context of biodehalogenation mechanisms. Metabolism and detoxification of special classes of halogenated compounds (pesticides, TCDD, etc.) will also be considered.
Onyx Embolization of Intracranial Pial Arteriovenous Fistula

Intracranial pial arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are rare cerebrovascular lesions consisting of one or more arterial connections to a single venous channel without an intervening nidus. Because of the location and high flow dynamics of these lesions, neurosurgeons may have a difficulty deciding between endovascular treatment and open surgical treatment. We report on a patient who underwent endovascular treatment with liquid embolic agent. A 50-year-old man with a decreased mental state and a tonic seizure event was brought to our hospital. Computed tomography (CT) of the brain showed a subcortical hematoma in the right temporoparietal lobe. On three-dimensional cerebral artery CT, there was no evidence of definite cerebrovascular abnormality. Cerebral angiography showed a pial AVF supplied by the right middle cerebral artery with early drainage into the right superior cerebral vein. The patient was treated with Onyx embolization for definitive closure of the fistula. The patient was transferred to the department of rehabilitation medicine two weeks later with grade 4 left hemiparesis. The application of advanced equipment, such as the latest angiography and endovascular tools, will facilitate the correct diagnosis and delicate treatment of pial AVF.
Introduction: History of SH2 Domains and Their Applications

The Src Homology 2 (SH2) domain is the prototypical protein interaction module that lies at the heart of phosphotyrosine signaling. Since its serendipitous discovery, there has been a tremendous advancement in technologies and an array of techniques available for studying SH2 domains and phosphotyrosine signaling. In this chapter, we provide a glimpse of the history of SH2 domains and describe many of the tools and techniques that have been developed along the way and discuss future directions for SH2 domain studies. We highlight the gist of each chapter in this volume in the context of: the structural biology and phosphotyrosine binding; characterizing SH2 specificity and generating prediction models; systems biology and proteomics; SH2 domains in signal transduction; and SH2 domains in disease, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Many of the individual chapters provide an in-depth approach that will allow scientists to interrogate the function and role of SH2 domains.