cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A pixel scale digital to analog converter for liquid crystal on VLSI displays

A pixel scale digital to analog converter and driver for liquid crystal (LC) cells is presented. The circuit is a highly compact CMOS logic gate that sums pulse density modulation (p.d.m.) signals. Low pass filtering of the p.d.m. signal is done by the liquid crystal material. The circuit is suitable to build large arrays of converters as for example in display applications. It is applicable in liquid crystal on VLSI displays where gray scale data are stored and converted at each pixel site. Advantages over the commonly used active matrix technology is the removal of all analog circuitry, no need for refresh reduced interconnect complexity, no capacitive loading of analog lines and the ability to build larger scale or smart displays that combine storage, drive, and processing circuitry. Experimental results from a CMOS implementation are presented.
Special Track on Artificial Intelligence Education

The FLAIRS Artificial Intelligence Education special track is devoted to methods of teaching AI. Its purpose is to provide a forum where AI educators from diverse institutional settings can share resources, innovations, and insights to advance the quality of AI education worldwide. Topics include model assignments, course syllabi, software, or other curricular resources, implementation of the Computing Curricula 2001 Intelligent Systems area, AI classroom techniques or innovations for undergraduate or graduate instruction, intelligent applications for instruction of AI and assessment of such applications, the use of robots or other hands-on equipment for teaching AI, strategies for incorporating AI research into AI courses, strategies for encouraging wider student interest and participation in AI, and descriptions or case studies of successful class projects or other pedagogical experiences.
Enzymatic ω-Oxidation I. ELECTRON CARRIERS IN FATTY ACID AND HYDROCARBON HYDROXYLATION

Abstract The separation of the soluble ω-hydroxylation system of Pseudomonas oleovorans into three components is reported in this paper. They have been identified as rubredoxin (a red protein containing nonheme iron but no inorganic sulfide), a diphosphopyridine nucleotide-rubredoxin reductase, and the ω-hydroxylase. All three proteins are required for the conversion of laurate to ω-hydroxylaurate or of octane to n-octanol in the presence of Fe++ ions, reduced diphosphopyridine nucleotide, and molecular oxygen.
Hierarchical fault tolerant control using component based models

This paper presents a hierarchical Fault Tolerant Control architecture using a component-based model of a complex system. In this model, components (actuators, sensors, linkages, etc.) are modeled individually with the interactions between components represented by an interconnection structure. The Fault Tolerant Control strategy has three levels to the hierarchy. The highest level encompases Fault Detection and Identification (FDI) to identify failure conditions. The middle level then redistributes the available control authority among healthy subsystems, calculates optimal control setpoints to maintain stability of the system, and adjusts local controller gains to boost system performance. The lowest level consists of the local subsystems and corresponding controllers. As an example, this approach is applied to a multi-tank process in the presence of a stuck actuator.
Lipodystrophies and Diabetes

Lipodystrophies are heterogeneous disorders of adipose tissue, characterized by selective loss of body fat and a predisposition to develop insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and hepatic steatosis. These disorders can be either genetic or acquired. The extent of fat loss can also vary from being localized or partial to generalized. Among the genetic lipodystrophies, congenital generalized lipodystrophy is caused by mutations in 1-acylglycerol-3-phosphate O-acyltransferase 2 (AGPAT2) and Berardinelli–Seip Congenital Lipodystrophy 2 (BSCL2) genes and familial partial lipodystrophies by defects in lamin A/C (LMNA) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARG) genes. Acquired generalized and partial lipodystrophies are likely to be autoimmune diseases. Lipodystrophy in HIV-infected patients is mainly due to prolonged treatment with HIV-1 protease inhibitors. Diabetes in patients with lipodystrophies may be caused by severe insulin resistance (hepatic and peripheral) and decrease in the insulin secretion due to pancreatic islet amyloidosis and β-cell atrophy. Hyperglycemia is difficult to manage despite large doses of insulin but does not lead to ketosis. Recombinant human leptin has been reported to drastically improve hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia in lipodystrophy patients with low serum leptin levels. It is hoped that our understanding of the pathogenesis of these disorders will contribute to a better understanding of adipocyte physiology, and of the molecular mechanisms of insulin resistance and eventually to better therapeutic options. Keywords: lipodystrophy; adipose tissue; AGPAT (1-acylglycerol-3-phosphate O-acyltransferase); LMNA (lamin A/C); diabetes; hypertriglyceridemia; peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ human immunodeficiency virus-1; protease inhibitors; hepatic steatosis; leptin
Informal property rights as stable conventions in hawk-dove games with many players

This paper investigates the evolution of conventions (Young Econometrica 61(1):57–84, 1993) in n-player hawk-dove games where multiple players share the same payoff-irrelevant label, such as “blue” or “green”. With more than two players, the stochastically stable equilibrium depends on how many players in the contest share each label. If the cost of fighting is high, then the long-run equilibrium is favorable to the label shared by fewer players – those players play hawk – while if the cost is low, then the opposite convention develops. This result provides one explanation for the emergence of informal property rights. In disputes over property, a fundamental distinction exists between the possessor, who is unique, and non-possessors, who can be several. For objects whose value is low relative to the cost of conflict over them, this asymmetry favors the development of informal property rights conventions.
The Proportion of Three Foundation Plant Species and Their Genotypes Influence an Arthropod Community: Restoration Implications for the Endangered Southwestern Willow Flycatcher

As part of a restoration project, multiple genotypes of two tree species, Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii) and Goodding's willow (Salix gooddingii), and one shrub species, Coyote willow (S. exigua), were experimentally planted in different proportions at the Palo Verde Ecological Reserve near Blythe, California, U.S.A. These common woody plant species are important to the endangered southwestern willow flycatcher, providing perch, nesting, and foraging habitat. We conducted this study to evaluate plant species proportion and plant genotype effects on the arthropod community, the prey base for the endangered southwestern willow flycatcher. Three patterns emerged. First, plant species proportions were important; the arthropod community had the greatest richness and diversity (H′) when Goodding's willow proportion was high and Fremont cottonwood proportion was lower; that is, fewer Fremont cottonwoods are required to positively affect overall arthropod diversity. Second, we found significant genotypic effects, for all three plant species, on arthropod species accumulation. Third, while both planting proportion and genotype effects were significant, we found that the effect of planting proportion on arthropod richness was about twice as large as the effect of plant genotype. This shows that both plant species proportions and genotype should be utilized in restoration projects to maximize habitat heterogeneity and arthropod richness. Similar studies can determine which planting proportion and specific genotypes may result in a more favorable arthropod prey base for the southwestern willow flycatcher and other species of concern. Greater attention to planting design and genotype can result in significant gains in diversity at little or no additional project cost.
Rapid spectrofluorometric assay for total bile salts in bile.

An assay is presented for total bile salts in bile. The procedure involves one precipitation and extraction step and then treatment with concentrated sulfuric acid to produce fluorescent products, which are then measured at an excitation wavelength of 470 nm and emission wavelength of 505 nm. With sodium taurocholate as the standard (fluorescence intensity of 1.00), the average fluorescence intensity of equimolar concentrations of the taurine and glycine conjugates of cholic, deoxycholic, and chenodeoxycholic acid is 1.01 (standard dev., 0.05). The average recovery of the six bile salts from pooled rat bile is 95.7% (standard dev., 8.5). The assay compares well with the established gas—liquid chromatographic and enzymatic methods, but it is simpler, faster, less costly, and just as reliable as the alternative methods.
SOME BIOCHEMICAL CHANGES IN THE GUINEA PIG DURING INFECTION WITH COXIELLA BURNETII

Paretsky, D. (University of Kansas, Lawrence), C. M. Downs, and C. W. Salmon. Some biochemical changes in the guinea pig during infection with Coxiella burnetii. J. Bacteriol. 88:137-142. 1964.-Guinea pigs infected with Coxiella burnetii, the rickettsial agent of Q fever, were studied for 11 days postinfection. Maximal changes in liver lipids, liver phosphorylase, and uridine diphosphate glucose (UDPG)-glycogen glucosyl-transferase activities occurred 3 to 4 days post-infection. In this period, total liver lipids increased from 1.26 to 5.46 mg/mg of N, with the largest increment in the glyceride fraction. Liver glycogen virtually disappeared by the second day, with no chemically detectable restoration until the eleventh day. A pattern of altered phosphorylase and UDPG-glycogen transglucosylase activities was observed, with maximal phosphorylase and minimal glucosyltransferase activities at the third and fourth days. Histochemical observations confirmed chemical analyses for lipids and glycogen.
Impact of the San Diego Serial Inebriate Program on use of emergency medical resources.

Study objective We determine the impact of a treatment strategy called the San Diego Serial Inebriate Program on the use of emergency medical services (EMS) and emergency department (ED) and inpatient services by individuals repeatedly arrested for public intoxication. Methods This was a retrospective review of health care utilization records (EMS, ED, and inpatient) of 529 individuals from 2000 to 2003. Judges offered individuals a 6-month outpatient treatment program in lieu of custody (Serial Inebriate Program). Demographics and health care utilization are reported overall and by treatment acceptance. Results From 2000 to 2003, 308 of 529 (58%) individuals were transported by EMS 2,335 times; 409 of 529 (77%) individuals amassed 3,318 ED visits, and 217 of 529 (41%) individuals required 652 admissions, resulting in 3,361 inpatient days. Health care charges totaled $17.7 million (EMS, $1.3 million; ED, $2.5 million; and inpatient, $13.9 million). Treatment was offered to 268 individuals, and 156 (58%) accepted. Use of EMS, ED, and inpatient services declined by 50% for clients who chose treatment, resulting in an estimated decrease in total monthly average charges of $5,662 (EMS), $12,006 (ED), and $55,684 (inpatient). There was no change in use of services for individuals who refused treatment. There was a significant increasing trend in acceptance among individuals with longer jail sentences ( Conclusion This community-supported treatment strategy reduced the use of EMS, ED, and inpatient resources by individuals repeatedly intoxicated in public.
Percutaneous treatment of a gastrocutaneous fistula after gastrostomy tube removal

Gastrocutaneous fistula formation is a potential complication resulting from nonsurgical gastrostomy or gastrojejunostomy tube removal. Limited success in conservative treatment has been achieved with either mechanical obstruction of the tract or pharmacologically based increase in gastric pH and improvement of gastric emptying. A case of successful conservative percutaneous treatment of a gastrocutaneous fistula with use of the sequence of initial tract de-epithelialization followed by direct tract sclerosis and mechanical obstruction is presented in this article.
Distributed Link-Layer Control for Automated Highway Systems

This paper presents the modeling and design of a link-layer control algorithm for automated highway systems (AHS). The focus of the link- layer control system is to use macroscopic traffic information for improved traffic flow. A distributed control algorithm is developed based on optimal control theory. The proposed control is implemented in a simulation program, and results are three perturbed conditions are presented.
Effect of propranolol on respiratory function and exercise tolerance in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease.

Ten patients with chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD) (group 1) and five patients with combined COLD and cardiac disease (group 2) were studied at rest and during exercise after an intravenous (IV) saline control followed by IV propranolol (0.2 mg/kg). During rest propranolol did not alter significantly measurements of lung volume in groups 1 or 2. Following propranolol the mean airway resistance (AR) in group 1 increased from 4.49 to 5.42 cm H2O/L/sec (P 1 (P
The size of fibroin messenger RNA and its polyadenylic acid content.

Abstract The molecular weight of fibroin messenger RNA has been measured by its contour length in the electron microscope and its electrophoretic mobility under conditions of complete denaturation. These methods give values of 5.6 × 10 6 and 6.0 × 10 6 daltons, respectively. The average molecular weight of 5.8 × 10 6 (1.6 × 10 4 base residues) would be expected to code for a protein of 414,000 daltons, a value about 12% larger than the most recently published size for fibroin. When the mRNA is prepared carefully to avoid shear breakage, it is as homogeneous in size as ribosomal RNA. Between 43% and 81% of the mRNA molecules bind to oligo(dT)-cellulose and are presumed to contain a poly(A) sequence. This sequence, isolated after ribonuclease digestion, comprises about 0.6% of the molecule, or an estimated 100 nucleotides. The poly(A) has been localized at the end of the molecule by hybridizing with a small poly (dT:dA) piece and subsequent visualization by electron microscopy. This observation, along with the ability of reverse transcriptase to transcribe fibroin mRNA with an oligo(dT) primer, demonstrates that the poly(A) is at the 3′ end of the mRNA.
Steroid-induced nuclear binding of glucocorticoid receptors in intact hepatoma cells.

Abstract Some of the early steps of steroid hormone action have been studied in cultured hepatoma cells, in which glucocorticoids induce tyrosine aminotransferase. The hypothesis that inducer steroids promote the binding of specific cytoplasmic receptors to the cell nucleus has been examined in intact cells. Binding of steroids such as dexamethasone and cortisol results in a loss of most of the receptor sites from the cytoplasm. This coincides with the binding of an equivalent number of steroid molecules in the nucleus. Both processes occur concomitantly, even when their kinetics are altered by reducing the temperature. When the inducer is removed from the culture, steroid dissociates from the nucleus while the level of cytoplasmic receptor returns to normal, even if protein or RNA synthesis is inhibited. These results suggest that nuclear binding of glucocorticoids is due to the association with the nucleus of the cytoplasmic receptor-steroid complex itself and make it unlikely that the receptor acts as a mere carrier for the intracellular transfer of the steroid. Steroids that differ in their effects on tyrosine aminotransferase induction were also studied. In contrast to those bound with inducer steroids, receptors complexed with the anti-inducer progesterone did not leave the cytosol. Further, a suboptimal inducer (deoxycorticosterone) produced an intermediate level of depletion. Thus, the biological effect of different classes of steroids can be related to their capacity to promote nuclear binding of the receptor. These data support a model proposed earlier, according to which the receptor is an allosteric regulatory protein directly involved in the hormone action, under the control of specific steroid ligands. They further suggest that the conformational state influenced by the inducer is such that a nuclear binding site on the receptor is exposed. Evidence is also presented that a distinct reaction takes place between the binding of the steroid to the receptor and the association of the complex with the nucleus. At 0 °C, this change is rate-limiting. It could correspond to the “activation” of receptor-steroid complexes known to be required for binding of the complexes by isolated nuclei, and thus represent an additional step in hormone action.
The Role of the Bar Context and Social Behaviors on Women’s Risk for Aggression

The present study is an initial examination of the extent to which the environmental characteristics of bars and social behaviors that women engage in when drinking in this setting are associated with bar-related aggression. As expected, several environmental characteristics (e.g., young patrons, pool playing) and social behaviors (e.g., alcohol consumption, leaving the bar with strangers) were associated with more severe bar-related aggression experienced by women during the past year. These results shed light on the significant problem of bar-related aggression against women and can potentially be used to develop prevention and educational programs.
Analysis of Credential Stealing Attacks in an Open Networked Environment

This paper analyses the forensic data on credential stealing incidents over a period of 5 years across 5000 machines monitored at the National Center for Supercomputing Applications at the University of Illinois. The analysis conducted is the first attempt in an open operational environment (i) to evaluate the intricacies of carrying out SSH-based credential stealing attacks, (ii) to highlight and quantify key characteristics of such attacks, and (iii) to provide the system level characterization of such incidents in terms of distribution of alerts and incident consequences
Synthesis and Oxidative Polymerization of Semifluoroalkyl-Substituted Thiophenes

A series of semifluorinated 3-alkylthiophenes ((3-thienyl-(CH2)m-CF2)nF, Th-m,n) were prepared by addition of perfluoroalkyl iodides to 3-(ω-alken-1-yl)thiophenes followed by treatment with NaBH4. Chemical and electrochemical oxidation gave the corresponding substituted polythiophenes. The fluorinated side chains have dramatic effects on the conjugation of the polythiophene backbone and thermal phase bahavior. Since the perfluoroalkyl parts of the side chains are approximately the same size as alkyl parts, and the electron-withdrawing effect of the fluorine atoms is insulated from the thiophene ring by a hydrocarbon spacer, these effects are ascribed to interactions between side chains. Microsegregation arising from the immiscibility of fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon segments of semifluorinated alkyl-substituted polymers provides for control of supermolecular architecture. The new 3-(semifluorinated alkyl)thiophenes will serve as comonomers in the design of self-organizing conjugated polymers.
Steric and Electronic Effects in Capsule-Confined Green Fluorescent Protein Chromophores

The turn-on of emission in fluorescent protein chromophores sequestered in an "octaacid" capsule is controlled by stereoelectronic effects described by a linear free energy relationship. The stereochemical effects are governed by both the positions and volumes of the aryl substituents, while the electronic effects, including ortho effects, can be treated with Hammett σ parameters. The use of substituent volumes rather than A values reflects packing of the molecule within the confines of the capsule.
Models of age-dependent predation and cannibalism via the McKendrick equation

Abstract A series of interrelated models is developed for various types of predator-prey interaction, based on combining the McKendrick equation for a single age-structured population with the Volterra-Lotka or Kolmogorov predator-prey equations. First a single species is studied that cannibalizes its own young. There it is shown by fixed point theory that the population will tend to a stable equilibrium or periodic solution if the birth rate is sufficiently high. Three cases are studied of a two-species system with age-dependent predation: (1) predators eat all ages of prey indiscriminately; (2) predators eat only newborn prey; (3) predators eat all ages with a preference toward the very young and very old. Case (1) is indistinguishable from a system where age is ignored. Case (2) can lead to oscillations of unbounded amplitude, but realistic refinements of the model can be made that eliminate the unboundedness. Case (3) can be analyzed using bifurcation from the situation of Case (1), and shown to have periodic solutions if the age bias in predation is sufficiently small.
Liberty, restraint, and criminal justice: Gerald Ford's presidential concerns

Abstract This article addresses a number of criminal justice issues that Gerald Ford wrestled with during his political career from Congress to the presidency. The objective is to paint a reasonably clear picture of Ford's general philosophy of criminal justice and criminology by focusing on the logic and organization behind his policy positions on some of the more salient criminal justice aspects. The research utilized original materials in the Ford Library at the University of Michigan. It indicates that Ford's positions on issues involving criminal justice were influenced by his personality and leadership style, although the impact on crime policy was not direct. Ford's specific policy pronouncements and statements of political positions on crime-related issues deal with two major concerns: crime prevention and criminal corrections and punishment. Both are discussed in this article.
Monte Carlo simulation of photon energy and dose-image quality in x-ray imaging

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of x-ray photon energy in determining skin dose, energy imparted and image quality in diagnostic radiology. An irradiation geometry consisting of a monoenergetic x-ray source (40 to 80 keV), a 20×20×20 cm 3 water cube and an image plane was modeled using MCNP5. At the center of the water cube was a 2×0.001×20 cm 3 rectangular prism filled with iodine for imaging contrast. Contrast, noise, and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were obtained for imaging under three scenarios: 1) with perfect grids; 2) with 8:1 grids (10% scatter, 70% primary beam) and 3) without grids at different incident photon energies. Under the same amount of incident photons, doubling photon energy from 40 to 80 keV caused a 19% increase in the total energy imparted and a 24% decrease in skin dose, with the lowest skin dose reached at ~70 keV. When the CNR was kept constant, the minimum energy imparted was achieved at 40 keV, while the minimum skin dose was achieved around 40~50 keV. When increasing the incident photon energy from 40 to 80 keV under a fixed CNR, skin dose increased ~480% and total energy imparted increased ~750% on average. Comparing with the imaging process without grids, the utilization of 8:1 grids decreased doses by ~84% at a fixed CNR. Under a constant image quality, the lowest skin dose and energy imparted may be achieved at different energy levels.
Reconstruction of Electronically Collimated Images Obtained from Single Photon Emitters Using a Spherical System of Coordinates

An algorithm has been developed to mathematically map planar scintillation camera images onto a spherical surface and subsequently reconstruct images also on a spherical surface. This technique results in an increase in the computational efficiency of iterative reconstruction techniques used to reconstruct electronically collimated images of single photon emitters. Results are presented using a prototype electronically collimated gamma camera under development in our laboratory.
Synthesis, biodistribution and micro-PET imaging of radiolabeled antimitotic agent T138067 analogues.

Radiolabeled antimitotic agents [11C]T138067 and [18F]T138067 have been synthesized for evaluation as new potential positron emission tomography (PET) biomarkers for cancer imaging. In vivo biodistribution and micro-PET imaging of [11C]T138067 were performed in breast cancer animal models MCF-7 transfected with IL-1α implanted athymic mice and MDA-MB-435 implanted athymic mice. The results suggest that the uptakes of [11C]T138067 in both MCF-7 transfected with IL-1α tumor and MDA-MB-435 tumor are non-specific binding.
Development of a two-site immuno-PCR assay for hepatitis B surface antigen

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) gene transcription may occur at very low levels resulting in HBsAg concentrations in serum and liver below the limit of detection by currently available immunoassays. An assay has been developed that combines the specificity of two high affinity anti-HBs monoclonal antibodies (MAb) directed against distinct and separate determinants in the 'a' domain of HBsAg with the highly sensitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection method. Following capture of HBsAg present in serum samples, the second anti-HBs MAb, which is biotinylated, is added. Binding of the second antibody allows the subsequent specific binding of streptavidin and a biotinylated linear DNA molecule derived from a bluetongue virus (BTV) gene. Presence of this DNA is then detected by PCR using BTV-specific primers. The PCR product is quantified by a liquid-phase oligonucleotide enzymatic assay, which further increases the sensitivity of the technique. The use of a two-site MAb capture and PCR detection system for HBsAg was shown to greatly enhance the specificity and sensitivity of the assay and detect as little as 0.5 pg of HBsAg in serum samples. It is suggested that the principles of this technique could be applied to measure other low level viral antigens in serum and biological samples.
Improved method of porcine renal allografting for transplantation research.

This study presents a refined, reproducible, and clinically appropriate animal model of renal transplantation. A pair of kidneys are harvested from a donor pig and preserved in Euro-Collins’ solution (4°C). After a set period of preservation, the allografts are transplanted to two recipient pigs. The abdomen is entered through a midline incision. The right common iliac artery and vein are dissected and bilateral native nephrectomy is performed. Each allograft is then randomly assigned and transplanted to the recipients. Three minutes before unclamping, 100 mg of furosemide and 10 g of mannitol are given IV. Immediately after reperfusion, urine output is measured for 1 h. The allograft is biopsied and ureteroneocystostomy is created. Cystostomy is then placed using a 16F Foley catheter. The bladder neck is ligated to secure complete diversion of urine, and the abdomen is closed in layers. This kidney transplant model allows an absolutely paired study of the kidney allograft function from the same donor and also collection of pure urine at any time postoperatively, obviating the need for metabolic cages or sedation for urinary collection. This model and its unique modifications allow various transplant studies, including organ preservation, immunosuppressive protocol, and the prevention of reperfusion injury from oxygen free radicals.
Stress-induced movement of crystal boundaries

Abstract The stress-induced movement of small angle boundaries in zinc crystals was investigated in the temperature range of 25° to 400°C. The dynamic behavior of the boundaries seemed to require that they consist of an array of edge dislocations of like sign distributed more or less uniformly over the plane of the boundary. The activation energy for the movement of the boundaries in the temperature range of 300 to 400°C was determined to be about 21,500 calories per mole. Attention was drawn to the close agreement between this value and those of the activation energies for self-diffusion, creep, and recovery in zinc crystals. A mechanism was suggested for the formation of a substructure in crystals plastically deformed at low temperatures which depended only on the stress-induced movement of small angle boundaries. This mechanism was based on observations that the rate of boundary motion decreased with increasing boundary angle. Small angle boundaries overtook and united with those of larger angle, forming slower moving, or even stationary substructure boundaries.
IDENTIFYING TARGET SEGMENTS FOR FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT (FDI) ATTRACTION: AN APPLICATION OF CONJOINT METHODOLOGY

This paper illustrates how conjoint methodology can be used by recipient countries to segment the donor market for foreign direct investment (FDI), thereby enhancing the effectiveness of their FDI attraction efforts. The study results indicate that FDI donors can be clustered into segments based on the FDI benefits they seek. The article concludes with normative and practical implications of the methodology for investment policy makers in recipient countries.
The relationship of α-bungarotoxin binding activity and cholinergic termination within the rat hippocampus

The disposition of receptors for α-bungarotoxin in the rat hippocampus during postnatal development and in response to septal lesions was studied using light-microscopic autoradiography. The temporal and spatial relationships of toxin receptors and presynaptic cholinergic elements, identified by acetylcholinesterase staining and amino acid tracer techniques, was analyzed in particular. It was found that (a) toxin binding sites arise very early, probably prior to the ingrowth of cholinergic fibers; (b) toxin receptors develop normally in the absence of a cholinergic termination brought about by septal lesion; and (c) two areas of marked toxin binding activity fall outside regions of identified cholinergic termination, one appearing transiently in early development, another persisting in the adult animal. It is concluded that, in the rat hippocampus, binding sites for α-bungarotoxin, which are likely to be related to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, develop independently of cholinergic input and may to some extent subserve functions other than synaptic transmission.
Drug Absorption from the Rectum I: Suppository Bases: A Preliminary Report

Studies were begun to determine the process(es) by which drugs may be absorbed from the rectum, and the effect of suppository dosage form on these process(es). Using dogs, whose anatomy closely resembles that of humans, plasma salicylate levels from salicylic acid and sodium salicylate incorporated into four different suppository bases were studied. It was found that the drugs were released and absorbed equally well from cocoa butter, while from a base composed of a mixture of synthetic glycerides, a polyethylene glycol base, and from polyoxyethylene (4) sorbitan monostearate, salicylic acid gave higher plasma salicylate levels. A passive diffusion process is proposed. In the studies to follow, the effect of suppository base and physicochemical characteristics of the drugs on absorption from the rectum will be explored in detail.
A belief propagation based hierarchical approach for capacitated network decomposition

With increasing applications of large-scale networks, fully distributed and self-organized clustering algorithms have attracted much attention recently. In this paper, we review the capacitated network decomposition problem that aims to minimize the cut weight. As an extension of our previous work [1], we propose a novel belief propagation based distributed clustering algorithm, which allows each node to select one or multiple co-cluster nodes by sending messages between pairs of nodes. Based on the max-product algorithm, we derive the message-passing procedure on the corresponding factor graph. The distributed clustering algorithm is also extended for a hierarchical structure. Simulation results show that our algorithm can efficiently find a capacitated network decomposition solution, and it outperforms the popular affinity propagation algorithm in some applications.
A supramolecular switch with molecular memory

A supramolecular switch is demonstrated that maintains a stable ON state even in the absence of guest at room temperature.
Sequence Analysis and Optimal Matching Methods in Sociology Review and Prospect

The authors review all known studies applying optimal matching or alignment (OM) techniques to social science sequence data. Issues of data, coding, temporality, cost setting/algorithm design, and analytic strategies are considered, and substantive findings are reviewed. The authors conclude that OM techniques have produced interesting results in a wide variety of areas, the most promising being studies of careers and of sequentially organized cultural artifacts.
Method for Measuring Air-Immiscible Liquid Partition Coefficients

The principal objective of this work was to measure nonaqueous phase liquid-air partition coefficients for various gas tracer compounds. Known amounts of trichloroethene (TCE) and tracer, as neat compounds, were introduced into glass vials and allowed to equilibrate. The TCE and tracer concentration of the headspace was analyzed and the partition coefficient was calculated from a mass balance. The TCE-air partition coefficient, defined as the ratio of the concentration of the tracer in the vapor phase to its concentration in the TCE phase, for gas tracer compounds perfluorodimethylcyclobutane, perfluoromethylcyclopentane, perfluoromethylcyclohexane, dibromodifluoromethane, and dibromotetrafluoroethane were determined to be 22, 24, 53, 370, and 470 for temperatures of 22–28°C . Most of the variability follows from uncertainty with measurements of tracer vapor-phase concentrations, with overall relative percent differences ranging from 8.5 to 25%. This methodology produces results consistent with literature...
High resolution stalagmite climate record from the Yucatán Peninsula spanning the Maya terminal classic period

The decline of the Classic Maya civilization was complex and geographically variable, and occurred over a ~150-year interval, known as the Terminal Classic Period (TCP, C.E. 800–950). Paleoclimate studies based on lake sediments from the Yucatan Peninsula lowlands suggested that drought prevailed during the TCP and was likely an important factor in the disintegration of the Classic Maya civilization. The lacustrine evidence for decades of severe drought in the Yucatan Peninsula, however, does not readily explain the long 150-year socio-political decline of the Classic Maya civilization. Here we present a new, absolute-dated, highresolution stalagmite ?18O record from the northwest Yucatan Peninsula that provides a much more detailed picture of climate variability during the last 1500 years. Direct calibration between stalagmite ?18O and rainfall amount offers the first quantitative estimation of rainfall variability during the Terminal Classic Period. Our results show that eight severe droughts, lasting from 3 to 18 years, occurred during major depopulation events of Classic Maya city-states. During these droughts, rainfall was reduced by 52% to 36%. The number and short duration of the dry intervals help explain why the TCP collapse of the Mayan civilization occurred over 150 years.
Determination of tryptophan oxidation of monoclonal antibody by reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography

A pre-peak was separated from the main peak of a monoclonal antibody by size exclusion HPLC (SE-HPLC) analysis using two TSK-Gel G3000SWXL columns connected in series. When compared with molecular weight markers, the product peak elutes as a molecule with apparent molecular weight of 44 kDa, indicating that separation is not strictly on the basis of size exclusion and that longer retention of the antibody by this column probably results from interaction between the stationary phase and the protein molecules during separation. The pre-peak has been characterized as due to the oxidation of one of tryptophan residues on the heavy chains of this monoclonal antibody. Because the SE-HPLC method using tandem TSK-Gel G3000SWXL columns showed unsatisfactory reproducibility amongst column lots, a more reliable and accurate reversed phase HPLC (RP-HPLC) method was developed to detect the tryptophan oxidation on the heavy chains of the monoclonal antibody. The level of tryptophan oxidation determined by the reversed phase method was correlated with the amount of tryptophan oxidation observed as a pre-peak by SE-HPLC. The RP-HPLC method was qualified for precision, accuracy, linearity of the main peak and the minor peak (oxidized isoforms of the heavy chain), detection limit and quantitation limit.
An industry view of industry/academic research collaboration

Collaboration between industry and institutions of higher learning has historically been at the center of fundamental advancement in a wide variety of technologies. These partnerships have traditionally formed between closely located participants. Collaborations can now take place on a global scale. The fundamental requirements for these collaborations though have not changed. Personal relationships and clear communication of the objectives are still required for successful partnerships. Industry brings a deep understanding of market problems and a means to commercialize discovery. Academia provides deep technical knowledge and novel approaches (often cross-discipline) to problem solving. A review of the framework and best practices and some historical insights are presented to build the case for industry&#60;>academic collaboration at a personal level and with a focus on solving problems that benefit both parties. Examples are used to highlight this approach.
Utility of gadolinium-enhanced MR urography in detection of bladder carcinoma

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of MR urography (MRU) in detecting bladder carcinoma. Methods A retrospective review of 107 MRU exams obtained to evaluate for possible upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma from 5/2005 to 5/2009 was performed by two experienced abdominal radiologists. Interpretation of the presence or absence of bladder carcinoma and lesion conspicuity in each imaging phase was made using 5-point confidence grading scales. Exams included 3D T1-weighted spoiled gradient-recalled echo images through the kidneys, ureters and bladder in the coronal plane during parenchymal phases and in both coronal and axial planes during pyelographic phases after intravenous administration of gadolinium and furosemide. Standard of reference was cystoscopy or cystectomy within 30 days of MRU. Statistical measures of performance, including receiver operating characteristics area under the curve (Az) values were calculated. Results Bladder carcinoma was present in 26/107 patients (24%). Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and Az value were 73.1%, 91.4%, 86.9%, 73.1%, 91.4%, 0.89 for the first reviewer, and 84.6%, 75.3%, 77.6%, 52.4%, 93.8%, 0.86 for the second. Lesion conspicuity was superior on the parenchymal phase compared to the pyelographic phase (p = 0.04). Conclusions MRU obtained for suspicion of upper urinary tract TCC has a moderate accuracy in detecting bladder carcinoma.
Ensuring Standards in Social Work Research

The strength of a profession derives from its knowledge base. Researchers in medicine, engineering, and business have amassed a critical body of empirically tested knowledge that empowers their practitioners. The development of a knowledge base requires social institutions that encourage and reward research. One of the most critical institutions for the development of knowledge is a profession’s peer review journals. The journals allow the profession to accurately and fairly assess the quality and importance of research occurring within the profession. The concept of peer review ensures researchers that editorial board members who have demonstrated the knowledge and background necessary to understand the complexities of submitted work are judging their work. Pardeck and Meinert’s findings raise doubts about the adequacy of the peer-review process for the profession’s main journal, Social Work. The author argues that the problem is even wider, affecting appointments to the Encyclopedia, endowed chairs, and...
Structure–property relationships of anionic exchange membranes for Fe/Cr redox storage batteries

Membranes with lower area resistivity, higher selectivity, and reduced susceptibility toward fouling were required to improve the efficiency and lifetime of Fe/Cr redox storage batteries. The relationship of membrane structure to these electrochemical properties was not well understood. To gain a better understanding of structure-property relationships, a series of model membranes was synthesized in which the degree of crosslinking, ion exchange capacity, and porosity could be varied independently. This permitted the completion of several factorial studies in which the effect of each structural variable and interaction between variables could be defined and quantified. It was found that increasing the ion exchange capacity had a beneficial effect on all three electrochemical properties. Increasing the porosity reduced the resistivity and fouling but resulted in poorer selectivity. The degree of crosslinking had no effect on resistivity but improved selectivity and reduced fouling was observed when this parameter was increase. These relationships are consistent with theoretical models that have been proposed to account for the behavior of ion exchange membranes in general. From this data, empirical models were constructed which could be used to predict the area resistivity and water content of other anionic exchange membranes. 15 references, 8 figures, 4 tables.
Clinical evaluation of atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance.

Abstract Objective: This study was undertaken to determine the clinical implications of the finding of atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance in cervical cytologic specimens in our patient population. Study Design: A retrospective study was performed. All cervical cytologic examinations with the diagnosis of atypical cells of undetermined significance between January 1992 and June 1997 were identified by means of a computerized database. Medical records were reviewed to identify patient demographic characteristics and to determine the presence or absence of associated pathologic conditions of the cervix and endometrium. The χ 2 test and analysis of variance were applied to dichotomous and continuous variables, respectively, to determine the implications of a cytologic evaluation of atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance. Results: Cytologic results reported as atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance were obtained in a patient cohort of 492. Atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance was the only cytologic diagnosis in 224 patients; 268 patients had both atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance and an additional squamous abnormality, including atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia I, II, or III. Two patients were excluded because of a history of endometrial cancer. A histologic evaluation was obtained within 1 year in 353 cases. Among the 353 patients who had a histologic evaluation performed, 227 (64%) had benign cervical and endometrial findings. There were 18 glandular lesions (5%), including complex hyperplasia with atypia, adenocarcinoma in situ of the cervix, adenocarcinoma of the cervix, and adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. A squamous lesion was present in 108 patients (31%). Most squamous lesions (81%) were found in patients with atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance associated with a squamous abnormality, whereas only 19% were found in patients with atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance as the only diagnosis. Women 50 years old ( P 50 years old had a much higher frequency of glandular histologic abnormalities ( P Conclusion: More than a third of women with Papanicolaou smears reported as showing atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance will be found to have a histologic abnormality. Women 50 years old have more glandular lesions than do younger women. The term atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance is a misnomer. The significance of this cytologic finding has been defined and represents a marker for serious pathologic processes. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;184:64-9.)
Incidence and timing of venous thromboembolism after surgery for gynecological cancer

Abstract Objective This study aims to determine the incidence, timing, and risk factors of clinical venous thromboembolism. Methods A cohort of patients who had major gynecologic cancer surgery between 1998 and 2008 was identified. Secondarily, a nested case–control design wherein patients who had clinical VTE within 90days after surgery were considered cases. Controls were matched on age, race, surgery date, and cancer site. Risk factors were evaluated for VTE within 90days, and late VTE between 8 and 90days. Results We identified 4158 women, 18years or older, without a history of recent thrombosis. We observed 126 cases of clinical VTE within 90days of surgery (incidence 4%) of which 96 (76%) occurred after post-operative day 7. In a multivariable model including age, ASA, BMI, race, and site of cancer, only ovarian cancer was a significant predictor for VTE within 90days (HR 2.8; 95% CI 1.6, 5.0). In the nested case–control study, we identified hospital stay≥5days (OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.5, 5.1) and prior VTE (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.1, 6.1) as significant risk factors for VTE within 90days. Only hospital stay ≥5days (OR 2.5; 95% CI 1.3, 4.7) was significantly associated with late VTE between 8 and 90days. Conclusion In gynecologic cancer patients, over 75% of VTE are detected more than 7days after surgery. Patients with ovarian cancer, prolonged hospitalization, or a history of VTE are at highest risk of developing clinical VTE. Such patients would be optimal candidates for clinical trials evaluating extended VTE prophylaxis.
Mean-field resonance-theoretic view of benzenoid networks

A simple classically based "mean field" resonance-theoretic approach is described to anticipate the effects of various modes of electron pairing (as in π-bond formation) for general "alternant" benzenoid conjugated π-networks. This simplified approach avoids generation and manipulation of individual resonance structures, whence application is facilitated, even for very large systems - so large that there might be hundreds or millions or moles or even substantially greater numbers of resonance structures. Some of the predictions so facilitated for several general circumstances are conveniently manifested as explicit algebraic formulas for numbers of unpaired electrons. The simplicity (and apparent reliability) of these algebraic formulas is emphasized; they involve no more than counts of different "kinds" of π-center carbons, e.g., the numbers of π-centers of different functionalities (primary, secondary, or tertiary) which are "starred" (in an "alternant" system) as well as those which are "unstarred". The argumentation also provides some information about rough locations for the (unpaired) spin densities, and ultimately also about the presence of low-lying excited states, magnetic moments, reactivities, and more. In particular these easily used ideas, which are extensions of those already familiar in "classical" organic chemistry should then aid in nano-technological developments.