cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Constitutional Duplication of a Region of Chromosome Yp Encoding AMELY, PRKY, and TBL1Y : Implications for Sex Chromosome Analysis and Bone Marrow Engraftment Analysis

Amelogenin has chromosome X (AMELX) and Y (AMELY) homologs that can be differentiated based on the length of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification products. In addition to being useful for gender identification, analysis of amelogenin has utility for monitoring bone marrow engraftment in patients after a sex-mismatched bone marrow transplant, characterizing sex chromosome abnormalities, and for forensic purposes for analyzing mixtures of male and female DNA. Here, we describe two brothers in which PCR analysis demonstrated twofold greater AMELY products compared with AMELX products. Karyotype and X/Y fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis demonstrated a single copy of the X and Y chromosomes without any identifiable abnormalities. Oligonucleotide comparative genomic hybridization array analysis demonstrated a duplication of a portion of chromosome Yp that encompassed a region of at least 2.6 Mb but not greater than 4.0 Mb. The amplified region contains the genes AMELY, transducin (β)-like 1 protein Y (TBL1Y), and protein kinase Y (PRKY). To our knowledge, duplication of this region has not previously been reported. The family history is unremarkable, and the brothers are without ap-parent dysmorphic features. Although this and other genetic variants involving AMELY are uncommon, one should use caution when using amelogenin for sex chromosome analysis and bone marrow engraftment analysis.
Sensory and cognitive functions

New neuroimaging studies provide striking evidence that the cerebellum is intensely and selectively active during sensory and cognitive tasks, even in the absence of explicit or implicit motor behavior. Focal activity is observed in the lateral cerebellar hemispheres during the processing of auditory, visual, cutaneous, spatial, and tactile information, and in anterior medial cerebellar regions during somatomotor behavior. Moreover, a double dissociation exists between (a) cerebellar activity and sensory processing and (b) motor behavior and activity in known motor areas in the cerebral cortex. These findings contradict the classical motor coordination theory of cerebellar function but are predicted by, or are at least consistent with, new alternative theories.
GLACIAL LANDFORMS | Evidence of Glacier Recession

Evidence for historic glacier recession includes direct observations, field mapping, aerial photography, satellite images, and other remotely sensed data such as radar, laser altimetry, and gravity. Evidence of glacier recession since the last glaciation includes glacial erratics, moraines, drumlins, flutes, eskers, outwash plains, and a wide variety of ice-disintegration features. These landforms are used to reconstruct the magnitude and rate of glacier recession. Modern analogs allow us to interpret late Pleistocene landforms and reconstruct the style and rate of glacier recession.
Fine Structure of Protoplasts and L-Forms of Clostridium botulinum Types A and E

Spherical bodies, that are obtained by adding penicillin and lysozyme to Clostridium botulinum types E and A cultures which are growing in an osmotically stabilized medium, are shown to be protoplasts by electron microscopy. The L-forms of these two culture types have morphologically different inclusion bodies.
An animated landscape representation of CD4+ T-cell differentiation, variability, and plasticity: insights into the behavior of populations versus cells.

Recent advances in understanding CD4+ T-cell differentiation suggest that previous models of a few distinct, stable effector phenotypes were too simplistic. Although several well-characterized phenotypes are still recognized, some states display plasticity, and intermediate phenotypes exist. As a framework for reexamining these concepts, we use Waddington's landscape paradigm, augmented with explicit consideration of stochastic variations. Our animation program “LAVA” visualizes T-cell differentiation as cells moving across a landscape of hills and valleys, leading to attractor basins representing stable or semistable differentiation states. The model illustrates several principles, including: (i) cell populations may behave more predictably than individual cells; (ii) analogous to reticulate evolution, differentiation may proceed through a network of interconnected states, rather than a single well-defined pathway; (iii) relatively minor changes in the barriers between attractor basins can change the stability or plasticity of a population; (iv) intrapopulation variability of gene expression may be an important regulator of differentiation, rather than inconsequential noise; (v) the behavior of some populations may be defined mainly by the behavior of outlier cells. While not a quantitative representation of actual differentiation, our model is intended to provoke discussion of T-cell differentiation pathways, particularly highlighting a probabilistic view of transitions between states.
Cutting Edge: Dendritic Cells Are Essential for In Vivo IL-12 Production and Development of Resistance against Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Mice

A powerful IFN-gamma response is triggered upon infection with the protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii. Several cell populations, including dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages, and neutrophils, produce IL-12, a key cytokine for IFN-gamma induction. However, it is still unclear which of the above cell populations is its main source. Diphtheria toxin (DT) injection causes transient DC depletion in a transgenic mouse expressing Simian DT receptors under the control of the CD11c promoter, allowing us to investigate the role of DCs in IL-12 production. T. gondii-inoculated DT-treated and control groups were monitored for IL-12 levels and survival. We show in this study that DC depletion abolished IL-12 production and led to mortality. Furthermore, replenishment with wild-type, but not MyD88- or IL-12p35-deficient, DCs rescued IL-12 production, IFN-gamma-induction, and resistance to infection in DC-depleted mice. Taken together, the results presented in this study indicate that DCs constitute the major IL-12-producing cell population in vivo during T. gondii infection.
[Hydroxy­tris­(penta­fluoro­phenyl)­borato-O][N-iso­propyl-2-(iso­propyl­amino)­troponiminato-N]­methyl­indium(III)

The title complex, [In(CH3)(C18HBF15O)(C13H19N2)], crystallizes as an ion pair linked by a μ-hydro­xo bridge. There are two independent mol­ecules in the asymmetric unit that exhibit essentially identical metric parameters, but different conformations.
The K-Gill: A Twin Propeller-Vane Anemometer for Measurements of Atmospheric Turbulence

A twin propeller-vane anemometer developed at the University of British Columbia was successfully used for unattended measurement of atmospheric turbulence over extended periods of time during moderate to high winds in the presence of sea spray. In this paper, a new design in twin propeller-vane anemometers is introduced. The instrument consists of two Gill anemometers mounted on a vane. The propeller shafts, one pointing up and the other pointing down, make an angle of 45 deg with the horizontal (hence, the name K-Gill). In addition to the desirable characteristics of the earlier design the K-Gill has symmetry, so that updraft and downdraft winds are measured with equal sensitivity. An algorithm for obtaining the vertical and downstream horizontal components of the wind velocity is described. Various sources of error and their magnitudes are discussed.
Programmatic or Personalistic? Pachakutik Strategies in Ecuador's 2006 Elections

Many scholars of Latin America have assumed that ethnic parties are able to avoid the personalistic tendencies of traditional parties, and capture votes primarily due to their party platforms, rather than with the provision of pork, patronage, or other tangible goods. In this paper, I examine this assumption through an analysis of the campaign strategies of ethnic party candidates in Ecuador. I find that ethnic party candidates behave strategically in response to Ecuador's institutions – such as electoral laws and the separation of powers – which compromises their ability to form programmatic linkages. Using data gathered in three provinces on three different Pachakutik party campaigns during the 2006 legislative elections in Ecuador, I illustrate the vote-seeking styles of ethnic party candidates. In this qualitative analysis, I rely on campaign materials, campaign speeches and candidate interviews, as well as personal observations, in order to capture how candidates generate representational relationships with their constituents. I find that although these candidates agreed with the programmatic interests of the ethnic party, they were ultimately unable to achieve the high expectations placed upon them by indigenous leaders and scholars alike – to form programmatic linkages with their constituents, and correspondingly improve Ecuadorian democracy.
Field-pulse memory in a spin-glass

We report a magnetic field-pulse memory effect in the temperature-dependent magnetization of Tb30Ru6.0Sn29.5, a spin-glass material having a newly identified structure type. Tb30Ru6.0Sn29.5 exhibits a glassy magnetization component of ∼2290 emu/mol-Tb, which represents over 84% of its total saturation magnetization. We show that when a magnetic field pulse of a few hundred gauss is applied to the sample as it is cooling, the system retains a memory of the temperature at which the pulse was applied. Upon warming, the imprinted memory is observed as a precipitous drop in magnetization at the pulse temperature.
The Struve-Sahade Effect: A Tale of Three Stars

The "Struve-Sahade effect" (S-S effect) is the apparent weakness of lines of the secondary in massive binaries when the secondary is receding. This effect poses problems for the accurate reconstruction of the separated primary and secondary spectra. We have reexamined IUE spectra of three classical, hot binaries studied by D. Stickland in 1997. From various cross-correlation and tomographic techniques we find different results for each of the three systems. For HD 1337 (AO Cas), we find a slight S-S effect which can be explained by a mechanism of localized heating by the colliding stellar winds, as proposed by Gies, Bagnuolo, & Penny in 1997. For HD 47129 (Plaskett's star), no consistent S-S effect was found, and none is expected based on the wind heating model because the secondary has a slightly stronger wind. Finally, for HD 57060 (29 UW CMa), a strong S-S effect was found during the receding phases (0.13-0.63). In addition, we find a strong feature near phase 0.2, similar to the secondary in spectral type but shifted by ≈-400 km s-1. We explain this by absorption and reemission by strong winds wrapping around the secondary. Thus, in general, we find that the S-S effect may arise from several distinct mechanisms.
Review essay/taking drugs and rights seriously

Douglas N. Husak, Drugs and Rights. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1992, vii + 312 pp.
Management of adverse reactions to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is an important medication for the treatment and prevention ofPneumocystis cariniipneumonia in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Use of this medication has been limited by the high frequency of adverse reactions that occur in patients with human immunodeficiency virus disease. This article reviews the incidence and spectrum of adverse reactions and options for continuing therapy with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in human immunodeficiency virus—infected patients who have adverse reactions. (Arch Intern Med. 1994;154:2402-2406)
The Effect of the Low Blink Rate in Rabbits on Topical Drug Penetration

ABSTRACT Purpose: The low rate of blinking in the rabbit as compared to the human suggests that there may be a greater contact time for drugs applied topically in the animal. However, there have been no experiments performed to examine this belief directly. Methods: A small drop containing either fluorescein or FITC Dextran was applied to the eye of a rabbit without the use of tranquilizer or anesthetic. Subsequently, the change in the fluorescence of the precorneal tear film was followed with a noninvasive fluorometer. Results and Conclusion: The animal did not blink for 20-30 min. after the instillation. With either fluorophore, the tear film fluorescence remained constant after the first few minutes and fell precipitously at the first blink. Comparison with the loss kinetics in the human eye, an exponential decline with an average rate constant of 0.16 min−1, indicates that the AUC will be 3 times greater in the rabbit, and the penetration of a drug can be overestimated to the same degree from the low ...
A comparison of type III metric radio bursts and global solar potential field models

Evidence of coronal magnetic fields from polarized metric type III radio bursts is compared with (1) global potential field models, (2) direct averages of the observed photospheric magnetic field, and (3) H-alpha synoptic charts. The comparison clearly indicates both that the principal aspects of type III burst radiation are understood and that global potential field models are a significantly more accurate representation of coronal magnetic field structure than either the large-scale photospheric field or H-alpha synoptic charts.
The Physicochemical Origins of Coincident Epitaxy in Molecular Overlayers: Lattice Modeling vs Potential Energy Calculations

The physicochemical basis for epitaxial stabilization of coincident molecular overlayers is illustrated by comparison of optimum overlayer−substrate configurations calculated with potential energy ...
Transient electromechanical responses of ferroelectric ceramics to impulsive electrical fields

Abstract When a partially or thoroughly poled disc of a ferroelectric ceramic is subjected to a suddenly applied step electric field, it vibrates symmetrically. The vibrations of the disc depend on the magnitude of the applied field, the state of polarization of the disc and the direction of the field with respect to the direction of polarization. Here, we consider the boundary-initial value problem characterizing the transient responses of the disc and determine, in particular, its boundary mechanical displacement history. Qualitative comparisons are made with available experimental results.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation for in-hospital events in the emergency department: A comparison of adult and pediatric outcomes and care processes

Objectives To compare outcomes from in-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the emergency department (ED) for pediatric and adult patients and to identify factors associated with differences in outcomes between children and adults.
Globalization and Government Policy Independence: The Issue of Taxation:

This study examines the relationship between national corporate tax policies and globalization. Specifically, we empirically focus on whether the internationalization of markets has led to lower co...
Removal of Natural Organic Polyelectrolytes by Adsorption onto Tobermorite

Natural organic polyelectrolytes, such as humic and fulvic acids, were removed by adsorption onto silicate rocks. Tobermorite, zeolite, and molecular sieves 5A were used as the adsorbents. Tobermorite was more efficient by 40−50% in the removal of fulvic acids, and by 30−50% for humic acid than zeolite or molecular sieves, respectively. Humic acid removal from the solution by adsorption onto silicate rocks took place more readily than fulvic acid removal. From the determined heat of adsorption, the adsorption process in the present study may be chemisorption (ligand exchange). Metal/humic acid complexes were effectively removed by adsorption onto tobermorite. Because tobermorite (a silicate rock) can be easily synthesized and obtained commercially, the adsorption method of removal of fulvic and humic acids is superior to their precipitation.
Direct and interaction effects of top management team and board compositions on R&D investment strategy

This paper examines why firms differ in levels of R&D investment intensity by developing and testing a theory of direct and interaction effects of top management team and board outsider composition on R&D intensity. The theory is tested in a longitudinal sample of technology-intensive firms that completed an initial public offering. The results indicate that both top management team composition and board composition have direct and additive effects on R&D investment intensity. Also, monitoring by outsider directors does not constitute a universally effective governance mechanism with regard to a firm's R&D investment strategy. Firms opt for lower levels of R&D investment intensity when their outsider-rich board interacts with a team of managers who have high levels of (1) firm tenure, (2) shared team-specific experience, or (3) functional heterogeneity. When a firm's competitiveness relies on sustained R&D investments, it is important to note these interaction effects and make adjustments to promote a healthy dialogue between managers and the board. Adjustments could be made to the management team composition (e.g., initiating management turnover to reduce firm tenure) or to the bundle of governance mechanisms (e.g., partially substituting board monitoring with other mechanisms). Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
AIDS and its treatments: two doctors' narratives of healing, desire, and belonging.

In this essay, I analyze two memoirs—Rafael Campo's The Poetry of Healing: A Doctor's Education in Empathy, Identity, and Desire and Abraham Verghese's My Own Country: A Doctor's Story of a Town and Its People in the Age of AIDS—which describe the effects of treating HIV/AIDS on each doctor's identity, on his desire for community and belonging, and on his identification and/or disidentification with the medical profession in the United States. My readings of Campo and Verghese revolve around three key terms provided by Campo's subtitle: identity, empathy, and desire. I shift the order of these terms in Campo's subtitle because I want to read identity, empathy, and desire in Campo and Verghese through and along with the theoretical “pragmatics” of Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari.
Fault Tolerance for OpenSHMEM

On today's supercomputing systems, faults are becoming a norm rather than an exception. Given the complexity required for achieving expected scalability and performance on future systems, this situation is expected to become worse. The systems are expected to function in a nearly constant presence of faults. To be productive on these systems, programming models will require both hardware and software to be resilient to faults. With the growing importance of PGAS programming model and OpenSHMEM, as a part of HPC software stack, a lack of a fault tolerance model may become a liability for its users. Towards this end, in this paper, we discuss the viability of using checkpoint/restart as a fault-tolerance method for OpenSHMEM, propose a selective checkpoint/restart fault-tolerance model, and discuss challenges associated with implementing the proposed model.
Diffusion flame calculations for composite propellants predicting particle-size effects

Abstract The complexities of the flame structure above a composite propellant containing 86% ammonium perchlorate (AP) and 14% hydroxy-terminated-polybutadiene (HTPB) have been elucidated using a two-dimensional, detailed gas-phase kinetic mechanism diffusion flame model. The model utilizes a vorticity formulation of the transport equations, which essentially eliminates the pressure field calculation and speeds convergence. Mass and energy coupling between the condensed and gas phases are achieved through iteration with one-dimensional, premixed combustion models to dynamically update the inlet boundary conditions. The model uses a detailed gas-phase kinetic mechanism consisting of 37 species and 127 reactions. Numerical studies have been performed to examine the influence of particle size on the flame structure above the AP/HTPB propellant. Three different combustion zones, based on AP particle size, were predicted: the AP monopropellant limit, the diffusion flame region, and the premixed limit. The modeled flame structure changed dramatically with particle size and was found to be qualitatively similar to the Beckstead–Derr–Price Model. Mechanistic insights are presented to explain AP’s unique ability to modify a propellant burning rate based on particle size alone. The premixed limit at which decreasing the size of the AP particles no longer influences the burning rate was also predicted. Results show promise in predicting formulistic effects using fundamental calculations.
Daily variation, capital market efficiency and predicting stock returns for the Hong Kong and Tokyo exchanges

Studying capital market efficiency is important because result may infer that there are predictable properties of the time series of prices of traded securities on organized markets. We examine the weak form of the efficient markets hypothesis to indicate its usefulness in terms of the results of this study. Furthermore, this study of individual securities prices of traded securities on the organized markets of Hong Kong and Japan corroborate previous findings of studies of individual stocks and market indexes both in Asian nations, the United States and other stock exchanges in the United Kingdom and Europe. Daily patterns are present in the times series of securities prices. You will note also, that the models identified reflect the returns on individual firms listed on the two of the three largest Asian Stock Exchanges.
The Relation between Socio-Economic Status Concerns and Angry Peer Conflict Resolution Is Moderated by Pet Provisions of Support

ABSTRACTConflict resolution is a critical skill required in peer relations, and anger retaliation is a problematic strategy for resolving conflict. Conflict resolution with peers in relation to socio-economic status (SES) concerns among boys was investigated. Of particular interest in this study was a test of the value of pet provision of feelings of importance and pride in relation to children's use of an aggressive style of conflict resolution with peers. One hundred and seven boys, in grades 3–7 (ages 8–13 years) participated in this study. Boys' self-reports of the extent to which their favorite pet made them feel important was of central interest. Three specific pet provisions of support were considered: a) a pet showing admiration and affection, b) a pet being an object of nurturance while providing companionship, and c) a pet providing an exclusive, intimate relationship by “listening” to a boy sharing of feelings. Results indicate that the pet provision of child self-enhancement provides a buffer ...
Emulsion polymerization of butadiene and styrene in the presence of carbon black. II. Hydroperoxide initiation

Butadiene, and butadiene and styrene, can be emulsion polymerized and copolymerized smoothly and rapidly in the presence of carbon black when the initiator is hydroperoxide rather than persulfate. With 15 parts of black per 100 parts monomer the recipe developed yields 100% conversion in 5–6 hr. and it insensitive to either molecular oxygen or appreciable quantities of ferrous iron. However, it is strongly dependent on the method employed for dispersion of the carbon black prior to polymerization. The latices obtained are very fluid and stable, showing no tendency either to cream or to settle. Nevertheless, they coagulate readily and cleanly with salt–acid to yield nonbleeding polymers containing all the black charged. The Mooney viscosities of the polymers are very high, ranging from 120 to 170. In spite of this, the rubbers mill easily and smoothly, and they rapidly absorb on a mill any additional carbon black to be incorporated. Butadiene–styrene copolymers, prepared at 50°C. by reaction to 70% conversion in the presence of 15 parts of black and compounded to 40 parts carbon black per 100 parts polymer, have been found to yield ultimate tensile strengths of about 4100 psi at 660% elongation. These tensile strengths are superior to those shown by comparable rubbers prepared at 50°C. in the absence of carbon black.
Satellite digital display for the Clinac-18.

A satellite digital display of the gantry and collimator positions has been mounted on the Clinac‐18 console. This module provides simultaneous digital readout of the gantry angle, collimator rotation angle, upper‐jaw position, and lower‐jaw position. Continuous display of these parameters during the treatment is important in minimizing patient treatment errors.
Uncovered interest parity and the efficiency of the foreign exchange market: a re-examination of the evidence

In this paper, we find that the traditional approach to testing UIP is misleading because of the significant difference in volatility between the change in the log of the exchange rates and the forward premium, and also because of the presence of conditional heteroskedasticity in the data. This difference has an effect on the estimates of the relevant slope parameter and on the estimates of the uncertainty about the parameter. We show by means of a bootstrap simulation experiment that the econometric rejections of UIP can be spurious and that an alternative methodology is needed to test for foreign exchange markets efficiency. We introduce a set of more direct and economically meaningful profitability-based tests of market efficiency based on UIP. Our results are far more favourable than the existing literature to foreign exchange market efficiency
Reforming Federal Sentencing Guidelines: A Modest Proposal

Abstract This article examines the use of community-based sentencing options within federal sentencing guidelines and offers specific recommendations for expanding the use of these sanctions. We begin by describing how the types of offenders and types of crimes prosecuted in our federal court system have changed since the passage of the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984. We then examine how various types of alternative sanctions—probation, probation and confinement, and prison/community split sentences—are currently being used in conjunction with federal sentencing guidelines in the sentencing of this new generation of federal offenders. We consider the issue of whether specific changes in sentencing guidelines are needed to increase the use of alternative sanctions and reduce post-Booker guideline departures. We conclude by estimating the impact of both sentencing guidelines reform and community-based program reform on public safety and the cost of corrections.
Detailed characterization of experimental acute alcoholic pancreatitis.

Background. With the ex vivo perfused canine pancreas preparation, the infusion of acetaldehyde, the primary metabolite of ethanol oxidation, plus a short period of ischemia to convert xanthine dehydrogenase to xanthine oxidase, results in the physiologic injury response of acute pancreatitis (edema, weight gain, hyperamylasemia). The free radical scavengers superoxide dismutase and catalase and a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, allopurinol, ameliorate this injury response, suggesting that toxic oxygen metabolites generated by xanthine oxidase play an intermediary role. Methods. The isolated ex vivo canine pancreas preparation was perfused for 4 hours, and weight gain of the preparation and amylase activity in the perfusate were monitored. Changes in pancreatic acinar cell architecture were characterized by light and electron microscopy, and intracellular phosphate metabolism was followed by magnetic resonance spectroscopy in control preparations and in glands simulating alcoholic pancreatitis. Results. Control preparations and preparations with a 1-hour period of ischemia before perfusion gained little weight (7±3 gm and 8±1 gm), amylase activity in the perfusate remained normal (933±513 units/dl and 1537±553 units/dl), and no changes in architecture were observed. Weight gain (5±6 gm) and amylase activity (1188±173 units/dl) were also normal in the preparations receiving acetaldehyde without preceding ischemia, but mild vascular and islet cell injury were observed on electron microscopy. One hour of ischemia followed by acetaldehyde infusion resulted in edema, increased weight gain (21±12 gm [p Conclusions. In this model simulating acute alcoholic pancreatitis, both the early physiologic injury response and the early morphologic changes are mediated at least in part by free radicals, which are generated by xanthine oxidase converted reversibly from xanthine dehydrogenase. In addition to the superoxide radical, the hydroxyl radical may also be an important early intermediate step, but the cholecystokinin receptor is not.
The Resonance Excitation of a Corrugated-Cylinder Antenna

Radiation from an axial magnetic line or slot source on the surface of a corrugated cylinder is considered. It is indicated that the power radiated in a given mode for the structure depends critically on the surface reactance and the circumference of the cylinder. In fact, for certain values of these parameters, particular modes are strongly excited and contain most of the radiated power. Numerical results are presented for several interesting cases.The analysis is extended to an elliptic cylinder whose surface also possesses an inductive reactance. In order to facilitate the solution it is necessary to assume a special azimuthal variation of the surface reactance. For the model as chosen, strong resonance characteristics are again obtained. This model may be adapted to study the problem of a corrugated panel on a flat metallic ground plane which is excited by a parallel slot source.
3D segmentation of non-isolated pulmonary nodules in high resolution CT images

The purpose of this study is to develop a computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) system to segment small size non-isolated pulmonary nodules in high resolution helical CT scans. A new automated method of segmenting juxtapleural nodules was proposed, in which a quadric surface fitting procedure was used to create a boundary between a juxtapleural nodule and its neighboring pleural surface. Experiments on some real CT nodule data showed that this method was able to yield results that reflect the local shape of the pleural surface. Additionally, a scheme based on parametrically deformable geometric model was developed to deal with the problem of segmenting nodules attached to vessels. A vessel segment connected to a nodule was modeled using superquadrics with parametric deformations. The boundary between a vascularized nodule and the attached vessels can be recovered by finding the deformed superquadrics which approximates the vessels. Gradient descent scheme was utilized to optimize the parameters of the superquadrics. Simple experiments on synthetic data showed this scheme is promising.
Nonadiabatic Effects in Slow Atomic Collisions. I. He + + He

In the collision ${\mathrm{He}}^{+}$ + He\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${\mathrm{He}}^{+}$ + ${\mathrm{He}}^{*}$, excitation at low incident ion energies (\ensuremath{\lesssim} 1 keV) proceeds via a pseudocrossing of the elastic $^{2}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{g}$ diabatic potential with excited-state $^{2}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{g}$ potentials. As previously reported, this excitation mechanism fails to explain diverse experimental data concerning total excitation cross sections. A new physical mechanism is hypothesized, its existence verified, and it is shown to provide good qualitative and semiquantitative interpretation of the observations. Nonadiabatic couplings among some excited states occur at pseudocrossings of the respective inelastic-channel molecular potentials at large internuclear separations, resulting in coherent phase interference in the inelastic-scattering amplitudes. A linear-combination-of-atomic-orbitals (LCAO) calculation of 18 excited-state $^{2}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{g}$ potentials of the intermediate ${(\mathrm{He}_{2}^{}{}_{}{}^{+})}^{*}$ system verifies the presence of these outer pseudocrossing. Such a mechanism is shown to be likely in many ion-atom collisions.
Modulation of the Benzodiazepine/γ-Aminobutyric Acid Receptor Chloride Channel Complex by Inhalation Anesthetics

: Inhalation anesthetics, such as diethyl ether, halo-thane, and enflurane, increase 36C1− uptake into rat cerebral cortical synaptoneurosomes in a concentration-dependent, picrotoxin-sensitive fashion. At concentrations consistent with those that stimulate 36C1− uptake, inhalation anesthetics also inhibit the binding of t-[35S]butylbicyclophosphoro-thionate ([35S]TBPS) to well-washed cortical membranes. Scatchard analysis of [35S]TBPS binding indicates that these agents reduce the apparent affinity of this radioligand and have little effect on the Bmax. The ability of inhalation anesthetics to directly stimulate 36C1− uptake and inhibit [35S]TBPS binding is a property shared by nonvolatile anesthetics. Nonetheless, there are differences between nonvolatile agents (such as barbiturates and alcohols) and in halation anesthetics, because the former compounds augment muscimol (a GABAmimetic) stimulated 36C1− uptake, whereas the latter group (such as ether and enflurane) inhibit this effect. These findings demonstrate that therapeutically relevant concentrations of inhalation anesthetics perturb the benzodiazepine/γ-aminobutyric acid receptor chloride channel complex, and suggest this oligomeric protein may be a common mediator of some aspects of anesthetic action.
Spectral-Based Multi-Way FPGA Partitioning

Recent research on FPGA partitioning has focussed on finding minimum cuts between partitions without regard to the routability of the partitioned sub-circuits. In this paper we develop a spectral approach to multi-way partitioning in which the primary goal is to produce routable subcircuits while maximizing FPGA device utilization. To assist the partitioner in assessing the routability of the partitioned subcircuits, we have developed a theory to predict the routability of the partitioned subcircuits prior to partitioning. Advancement over the current work is evidenced by results of experiments on the standard MCNC benchmarks.
Target-specific native/decoy pose classifier improves the accuracy of ligand ranking in the CSAR 2013 benchmark.

As part of the CSAR 2013 benchmark exercise, we have implemented a hybrid docking and scoring workflow to rank 10 steroid ligands of an engineered digoxigenin-binding protein. Schrodinger’s Glide docking software was used to generate poses for each steroid ligand and rank them according to both standard docking precision (SP) and extra docking precision (XP) scoring functions. The unique component of our approach was the use of a target-specific pose classifier trained to discriminate nativelike from decoy poses. To build the classifier, a single cognate ligand with a known native pose (PDB code 4J8T) was docked multiple times into its target protein, and the generated poses were divided into two classes (nativelike and decoy) using a root-mean-square deviation threshold of 2 A. All of the poses were characterized by the MCT-Tess descriptors of the protein–ligand interface, and random forest (RF) models were trained to discriminate the two classes of poses on the basis of their descriptors. The consensus ...
Application of RAM to Communication Systems

This paper presents the results achieved by applying Reliability, Availability, Maintainability (RAM) techniques to communication systems over the period 1968-1972. The objective of this program was to guide development of Ground Communication systems and evaluation after deployment. These systems, after field deployment, went through the normal debugging activity. By detection and proper recognition of potential problem areas, corrective action was taken to achieve the most needed improvements for least cost. The US Army Satellite Communications Agency (USASATCOMA) is the Army's focal point for a whole class of materials that are related to satellite communications. Once developed, these equipments become a part of a larger entity that must itself undergo a degree of development and testing prior to operational use as a DOD Joint Service System. The performance of the communication ground subsystem was assessed as part of the larger system, and ground subsystem availability was evaluated. The USASAT-COMA received field data from 14 AN/MSC-46 terminals and 12 AN/TSC-54 terminals over this period. The reporting system was jointly developed to get field data for these assessments. A prime consideration in gathering data was to keep the reporting system simple so that field personnel would be required only to perform minimum clerical work and make minimum interpretations of data. This paper considers the design objectives of both the AN/MSC-46 and the AN/MSC-46 and the AN/TSC-54 ground terminals and the assessment and growth of these systems in availability achievement after being deployed.
The moral significance of the internet in information: Reflections on a fundamental moral right to information

I consider the foundational issue of whether we have a right to information that is fundamental in being independent of other rights and general in protecting all information. To this end, I distinguish two kinds of morally relevant value an entity might have, i.e. intrinsic and instrumental value, and explain the role that each has in determining whether a person has a fundamental moral interest in that entity. Next, I argue that, by itself, the claim that some entity E has an informative nature does not justify believing that E has either intrinsic value or instrumental value. Accordingly, I conclude that whatever protection morality provides to our interests in information, such protection does not rise to the level of a right that is either general in the sense that it applies to all information or fundamental in the sense that it is not derived from other more basic rights.
Transepithelial sulfate transport by avian renal proximal tubule epithelium in primary culture.

The mechanisms and control of transepithelial inorganic sulfate (Si) transport by primary cultures of chick renal proximal tubule monolayers in Ussing chambers were determined. The competitive anion, S2O3 2− (5 mM), reduced both unidirectional reabsorptive and secretory fluxes and net Sireabsorption with no effect on electrophysiological properties. The carbonic anhydrase (CA) inhibitor ethoxzolamide decreased net Si reabsorption ∼45%. CAII protein and activity were detected in isolated chick proximal tubules by immunoblots and biochemical assay, respectively. Cortisol reduced net Sireabsorption up to ∼50% in a concentration-dependent manner. Thyroid hormone increased net Si reabsorption threefold in 24 h, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) acutely stimulated net Sireabsorption ∼45%. These data indicate that CA participates in avian proximal tubule active transepithelial Si reabsorption, which cortisol directly inhibits and T3 and PTH directly stimulate.
CT Demonstration of Cortical Nephrocalcinosis in Congenital Oxalosis

The clinical, pathologic and roentgenographic features of a case of congenital oxalosis are discussed and contrasted to the more common forms of primary oxalosis. The ease of demonstration of the cortical deposition of calcium oxalate crystals on a CT scanner is reported.
Parameter identification for industrial robots with a fast and robust trajectory design approach

Model-based, torque-level control can offer precision and speed advantages over velocity-level or position-level robot control. However, the dynamic parameters of the robot must be identified accurately. Several steps are involved in dynamic parameter identification, including modeling the system dynamics, joint position/torque data acquisition and filtering, experimental design, dynamic parameters estimation and validation. In this paper, we propose a novel, computationally efficient and intuitive optimality criterion to design the excitation trajectory for the robot to follow. Experiments are carried out for a 6 degree of freedom (DOF) Staubli TX-90 robot. We validate the dynamics parameters using torque prediction accuracy and compare to existing methods. The RMS errors of the prediction were small, and the computation time for the new, optimal objective function is an order of magnitude less than for existing approaches. HighlightsWe propose a fast, robust trajectory design for use in parameter identification.Computation time for our design is approximately 1/20 the time for prominent, existing methods.We estimate the dynamic parameters for a 6 DOF robot, the Staubli Tx-90, which has not previously been identified, to our knowledge.The RMS errors of the torque prediction were small (< 24 Nm).
Probing potential-tuned resonant tunneling through redox molecules with scanning tunneling microscopy.

We have studied electron transfer through redox molecules adsorbed on a conductive substrate with scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) in aqueous solution. By adjusting the substrate potential, the Fermi levels of the substrate and tip can be easily shifted relative to the energy levels of the molecules. Aligning the Fermi levels to an energy level, a nearly tenfold increase in the tunneling current that flows between the substrate and the STM tip via the molecules, due to resonant tunneling is observed. This experiment also shows that structurally similar molecules may be identified with STM based on their different redox properties.
Global study of bright band structure as observed from spaceborne precipitation radar

Bright band is perhaps one of the most widely known radar signatures for a long time. Extensive research has been reported in the literature, documenting various features of bright bands. Nevertheless it has always been a challenge to obtain a clear classification of the underlying structure of the vertical profile of reflectivity from radar observations. Classifying the radar profiles of bright band to a limited set will be helpful to further this goal. In this study the Self Organizing Map (SOM) technique is used to classify bright band observed from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Precipitation Radar (PR). The SOM forms a non-linear mapping of the data to a two-dimensional grid map that can be used as an exploratory analysis tool for generating hypotheses on the shape, and characteristics of the vertical profiles of bright bands. Observation of reflectivity profiles in bright band obtained from the TRMM-PR at 125 m vertical resolution are analyzed and visualized with the SOM. Basic descriptions of the vertical structure are extracted from the TRMM-PR bright band region data, and the corresponding statistics are presented in this paper. Statistics of bright band thickness, peak reflectivity, snow reflectivity, rain reflectivity, and the sharpness of bright bands are studied at a global scale over the tropics. The global classification map provides a unique tool to quantitatively classify bright band region. The methodology and results of the analysis are presented in this paper.
THE SPIRAL ARM CONNECTION OF EGRET UNIDENTIFIED SOURCES

Based on a LogN-LogS relation we have shown that the EGRET unidentified source (UnidS) distribution closely follows the Galactic spiral arm structure. This seems to satisfy the hypothesis that the EGRET UnidS arise due to energetic interactions with molecular clouds that reside on the spiral arms. Furthermore, the luminosity distribution of the unidentified sources features a double Gaussian distribution. We suggest that a combined distribution of OB associations, SNR and superbubbles interacting with molecular clouds within the spiral arms are the most likely counterparts of the unidentified sources.
Synthesis and characterization of model polyisoprene-polylactide diblock copolymers

Model polyisoprene−polylactide (PI−PLA) diblock copolymers were synthesized by a combination of living anionic polymerization and controlled coordination-insertion polymerization. Living anionic polymerization of isoprene followed by end-capping with ethylene oxide yielded hydroxyl-terminated polyisoprenes (PI−OH) with narrow molecular weight distributions. In a second step, an aluminum alkoxide macroinitiator was formed from the equimolar reaction of triethylaluminum with the PI−OH prepolymer and subsequently utilized for the ring-opening polymerization of lactide to produce the desired PI−PLA diblock copolymer. The final molecular weight of each block was controlled through manipulation of the monomer-to-initiator ratio in both polymerizations. Well-defined blocks were obtained as evidenced by the narrow molecular weight distributions and the absence of homopolymer as characterized by GPC analysis. Molecular characterization of the block copolymers by spectroscopy (1H NMR, 13C NMR, and IR) and elemental...
On the Efficiency of the Petersen Grab

THE Petersen Grab is now being much used in various parts of the world for the purpose of picking up a portion of the sea-bottom—where this is soft enough—along with the animals of all kinds contained in the surface layer of that portion of the sea-bottom. When a sufficiently large number of samples can be taken on a homogeneous stretch of ground the grabsamples are made a means of determining quantitatively the average distribution of the sedentary population of that area.
17-allylamino-17-(demethoxy)geldanamycin (17-AAG) is a potent and effective inhibitor of human cytomegalovirus replication in primary fibroblast cells

The 90 % human cytomegalovirus inhibitory concentration of 17-allylamino-17-(demethoxy)geldanamycin (17-AAG) was 0.1 nM and 50 % cytotoxicity required at least a 10 μM concentration. Three molecular targets may explain the antiviral activities of this compound. These are (1) heat shock protein maturation complexes, (2) host cell cycle progression and (3) phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling. However, the data suggested a mechanism of action where 17-AAG blocked immediate-early protein transactivation.
Correlates of prolonged hospitalization in inner-city ICU patients receiving noninvasive and invasive positive pressure ventilation for status asthmaticus.

Study objectives To describe the outcome of patients with status asthmaticus (SA) treated in a medical ICU with positive pressure ventilation (PPV), and to identify those factors associated with increased length of hospital stay. Design Retrospective chart review. Setting University-based hospital in Chicago, IL. Patients All patients admitted with SA and treated with PPV over a 5-year period. Results The first ICU admission for each of 78 patients was analyzed. Fifty-six patients underwent endotracheal intubation (ETI) during the hospitalization, while 22 patients were treated with noninvasive PPV alone. Three patients died. The median hospital length of stay was 5.5 days. Cox regression analysis revealed the following factors to be independently associated with increased length of hospital stay: female gender (p 24 h (p Conclusions This study suggests that while the mortality associated with SA treated with contemporary methods of PPV is low, certain factors, including female gender, ETI, and the prolonged use of neuromuscular blockade, are associated with an increased length of hospital stay. The development of respiratory failure despite preadmission use of inhaled corticosteroids is also associated with prolonged hospitalization.
Making Ministerial Marriage: The Social and Religious Legacy of the Dominion of New England

Religion permeated all aspects of New England Puritans’ lives, but it was curiously absent from their marriage ceremonies. In response to political changes brought about by the Dominion of New England, however, colonists increasingly shunned secular weddings, now performed by Crown appointees rather than elected Bay officers, and embraced religious ceremonies performed by local ministers.