cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Carbidopa Administration on 6-[18F]Fluoro-L-DOPA Kinetics in Positron Emission Tomography

Carbidopa (L-alpha-hydrazino-alpha-methyl-b-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) propionic acid is a known inhibitor of aromatic amino acid decarboxylase. In both humans and monkeys, we studied the effects of carbidopa on plasma and brain kinetics of 6-[18F]fluoro-L-DOPA (FDOPA), an analog of L-DOPA used for PET studies of the central dopaminergic system. Pretreatment with carbidopa resulted in increases in the plasma levels of FDOPA and 3-O-methyl-6-[18F]fluoro-L-DOPA (3-OMFD). Total striatal and cerebellar activities measured with PET were also increased. Furthermore, increases observed in the specific striatal activity (striatum minus cerebellum total activity) were correlated with increases in the plasma FDOPA curve. Carbidopa pretreatment did not affect the influx rate constant (K) for FDOPA from plasma to striatum in humans as determined by Patlak graphical analysis. Thus, an increase in measured striatal tomographic activity was secondary to the increase in plasma FDOPA levels rather than as a result of changes in the FDOPA influx rate constant.
QUANTUM DYNAMICS ON MASSIVELY PARALLEL COMPUTERS: EFFICIENT NUMERICAL IMPLEMENTATION FOR PRECONDITIONED LINEAR SOLVERS AND EIGENSOLVERS

The eigenvalue/eigenvector and linear solve problems arising in computational quantum dynamics applications (e.g. rovibrational spectroscopy, reaction cross-sections, etc.) often involve large sparse matrices that exhibit a certain block structure. In such cases, specialized iterative methods that employ optimal separable basis (OSB) preconditioners (derived from a block Jacobi diagonalization procedure) have been found to be very efficient, vis-a-vis reducing the required CPU effort on serial computing platforms. Recently,1,2 a parallel implementation was introduced, based on a nonstandard domain decomposition scheme. Near-perfect parallel scalability was observed for the OSB preconditioner construction routines up to hundreds of nodes; however, the fundamental matrix–vector product operation itself was found not to scale well, in general. In addition, the number of nodes was selectively chosen, so as to ensure perfect load balancing. In this paper, two essential improvements are discussed: (1) new algorithm for the matrix–vector product operation with greatly improved parallel scalability and (2) generalization for arbitrary number of nodes and basis sizes. These improvements render the resultant parallel quantum dynamics codes suitable for robust application to a wide range of real molecular problems, running on massively parallel computing architectures.
Directional-correlation results for 134Ba and 110Cd using a megachannel gamma- gamma coincidence system☆

Abstract The development of high-resolution Ge(Li) detectors has created a need for gamma-ray coincidence analysis systems able to process and store the large quantities of data generated. We describe a megachannel pulse-height analysis system that can sort and store these data on line. This is accomplished using a 32K-word PDP-8/E minicomputer and two moving-head disks that provide a storage capacity of 2 18 events at any of 2 20 data locations. An X -or Y -pulse-height spectrum, in coincidence with one to four arithmetically combined pulse-height peak and background windows, can be assembled for CRT display and spectral analysis within 2–20 s. The rapid recovery of data allows convenient set-up and monitoring of experiments and anlyysis of the accumulated data. To test the performance of the system, we made directional-correlation measurements on gamma-ray cascades in 134 Ba and 110 Cd. Analyses of these data gave E2/M1 mixing ratios that for most transitions agreed well with published results. Using this system with its improved energy resolution and data processing capabilities, we obtained new E2/M1 mixing ratio results of 13.3 ± 2.1 for the 563 keV transition in 134 Ba and −1.24 ± 0.20 for the 1505 keV transition in 110 Cd.
The prognostic significance of troponin elevation in patients with sepsis: a meta-analysis.

Abstract Objective To confirm the association between troponin elevation in patients with sepsis and mortality. Background Cardiac troponins are sensitive and specific biomarkers of myocardial injury; however their prognostic significance in patients with sepsis is still debated. Methods PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE were searched for original articles using MeSH terms ‘Troponin’ and ‘Sepsis.’ Studies reporting on mortality in patients with sepsis, severe sepsis or septic shock who had troponin measured were eligible for inclusion. Meta-analysis was conducted with Review Manager. Results Seventeen studies, with total sample size of 1857 patients were included. Elevated troponin was found to be significantly associated with mortality (Risk ratio: 1.91; 95% CI: 1.65–2.22; p Conclusions Troponin elevation in patients with sepsis confers poorer prognosis and is a predictor of mortality. Further studies are needed to see if more aggressive treatment of this subset of patients, or utilizing new therapeutic approaches will improve mortality.
Parallel heterogeneous mesh refinement for advection-diffusion equations

We develop a numerical solution for advection-diffusion equations; here we solve the two dimensional Burgers equation, $$\vec v_t + \vec v \cdot \nabla \vec v = \varepsilon \Delta \vec v,$$ (1.1) as a proof of concept with hopes of applying the method to more complete fluid dynamics models in the future. The advection-diffusion equations are first advanced on a coarse mesh subject to the hyperbolic stability condition. Significant parabolic regions are identified with a parabolic threshold criterion, and the coarse mesh is dynamically decomposed and refined. An Euler-Lagrange method advances these refined subdomains independently, allowing coarse grain parallel scheduling.
Learning and earning in the middle, part II: state and local studies of pre-baccalaureate education

Abstract This paper reviews evidence on the economic benefits of postsecondary education below the baccalaureate degree, based on results using state Unemployment Insurance wage record data. While the state and local analyses available are still limited, the results are quite similar to those from national studies, and they can be (and will increasingly be) used for purposes different from national studies. In general, the results indicate substantial benefits for many kinds of postsecondary education, particularly when individuals complete programs and enroll in certain occupational areas. However, under certain conditions, economic benefits fail to materialize, clarifying the value of empirical work rather than ideology or hearsay in helping inform students, educators, and policy-makers.
Proposal for BER based specifications for DDR4

We present a proposal for a statistical approach to DRAM DDR electrical specifications to improve analysis accuracy and specification methods, improving the predictability for the higher DDR4 data rates.
Automatic Segmentation of Lung Parenchyma in the Presence of Diseases Based on Curvature of Ribs

Rationale and Objectives. Segmentation of lungs using high-resolution computer tomographic images in the setting of diffuse lung diseases is a major challenge in medical image analysis. Threshold-based techniques tend to leave out lung regions that have increased attenuation, such as in the presence of interstitial lung disease. In contrast, streak artifacts can cause the lung segmentation to “leak” into the chest wall. The purpose of this work was to perform segmentation of the lungs using a technique that selects an optimal threshold for a given patient by comparing the curvature of the lung boundary to that of the ribs. Methods. Our automated technique goes beyond fixed threshold-based approaches to include lung boundary curvature features. One would expect the curvature of the ribs and the curvature of the lung boundary around the ribs to be very close. Initially, the ribs are segmented by applying a threshold algorithm followed by morphologic operations. The lung segmentation scheme uses a multithreshold iterative approach. The threshold value is verified until the curvature of the ribs and the curvature of the lung boundary are closely matched. The curve of the ribs is represented using polynomial interpolation, and the lung boundary is matched in such a way that there is minimal deviation from this representation. Performance of this technique was compared with conventional (fixed threshold) lung segmentation techniques on 25 subjects using a volumetric overlap fraction measure. Results. The performance of the rib segmentation technique was significantly different from conventional techniques with an average higher mean volumetric overlap fraction of about 5%. Conclusions. The technique described here allows for accurate quantification of volumetric computed tomography and more advanced segmentation of abnormal areas. © AUR, 2008
Rapid determination of theophylline in human plasma by high-pressure liquid chromatography

Abstract A rapid, specific, high-pressure liquid chromatographic method for the determination of theophylline in plasma was developed. The procedure is fast enough (21 min from receipt of blood to reporting value) to be used for emergency determinations. The sensitivity, precision, and accuracy are sufficient for routine monitoring of therapeutic levels in patients. The assay is specific enough to be valid in the presence of caffeine and theobromine. Metabolites of theophylline as well as a number of drugs do not interfere with the assay.
Reliability of 28-volt D-C aircraft distribution systems

An analysis of protection of a typical 28-volt d-c distribution system for large multiengine aircraft is presented. Conclusions regarding bus and feeder fault protection and arrangement are included.
Molecular Tagging Velocimetry (MTV ) measurements in gas phase flows

Recent developments in Molecular Tagging Velocimetry (MTV) using the phosphorescence of biacetyl are described for gas-phase flows. With improvements in tagging, detection, and processing schemes, whole-field measurements of two components of the velocity vector are obtained simultaneously, typically at more than 300 points over a plane. Application of this measurement approach is demonstrated in mapping the velocity and vorticity fields of the intake flow into a “steady flow rig” model of an internal combustion engine.
EFFECT OF ANAESTHESIA FOR DELIVERY ON THE WEIGHT OF INFANTS DURING THE FIRST 5 DAYS OF LIFE

Two hundred and forty-one neonates who had been delivered vaginally were selected randomly. The control group consisted of infants delivered without anaesthesia. In the study groups either extradural (mepivacaine, lignocaine or bupivacaine), spinal or general anaesthesia was administered. Each of the six groups was divided into breast- and bottle-fed subgroups. The results showed no significant difference in weight changes among the various groups. The bottle-fed subgroup showed less weight loss than the breast-fed subgroup (P less than 0.05). There was no interaction between method of feeding and type of anaesthesia.
Ion-Exchange Equilibria on Single Beads

Equilibria on single ion-exchange resin beads show that large differences may exist between beads from the same batch. They may be so large that a significant contribution to deviations from ideality can be due to this heterogeneity effect. Correlation between swelling and equilibrium properties shows that bead-to-bead variations are due to differences in cross-linking.
Biology of metastatic disease.

Abstract Metastasis development is a complex series of events involving the generation of new blood vessels, growth, invasion with breakdown of the host matrix, transport to other sites with adhesion, and subsequent invasion of the organ that hosts the metastasis. It is only recently that the molecular basis for these events has been studied, and the understanding of this process is now leading to the development of therapies that targets one or more of the components of this series of events. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Biomedical and Behavioral Research in Nursing Homes: Guidelines for Ethical Investigations

As nursing homes become increasingly important sites for biomedical and behavioral research, researchers must address the ethical problems of increased vulnerability and the high prevalence of mental and physical disorders in the nursing home population. Obtaining valid informed consent is but one of the many difficult issues that confronts the investigator in the nursing home. Efforts should be made to involve nursing home residents, as well as family and staff members, in the review of research. The benefits and burdens of research protocols should be equitably distributed, and potential conflicts of interest for staff members and physicians should be minimized or their potential adverse impact ameliorated. Appropriate attention to these ethical concerns may facilitate nursing home research while still safeguarding vulnerable residents. We offer proposed guidelines for the ethical conduct of research in nursing homes in an effort to stimulate discussion among investigators, nursing home staff and residents, residents' families, and ethicists.
Impact of insecticides on the invasive Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae): analysis of insecticide lethality.

The efficacy of 37 insecticide treatments against adult Halyomorpha halys (Stal) was established based on exposure to 18-h old dry insecticide residue in laboratory bioassays. Individual adult H. halys were exposed to an insecticide residue for 4.5 h and then monitored daily for survivorship over a 7-d period. The proportion of dead and moribund insects was used as an estimate of overall insecticide efficacy against H. halys immediately after the exposure period and over the 7-d trial. Among all materials evaluated, 14 insecticides exhibited increasing efficacy, in which the percentage of dead and moribund insects (used as a measure of insecticide efficacy) increased by >10% after 7 d. By contrast, insecticide efficacy values of eight insecticides declined by >10% (based on recovery of adults from a moribund state) over the 7-d period with most belonging to the pyrethroid class. In this study, the efficacy value of neonicotinoid, acetamiprid, showed the greatest decline from 93 to 10% over 7 d. A lethality index (scale of 0–100) was developed to compare insecticides based on quantifying the immediate and longer-term effects of insecticide exposure on H. halys. Among all materials evaluated, dimethoate, malathion, bifenthrin, methidathion, endosulfan, methomyl, chlorpyrifos, acephate, fenpropathrin, and permethrin yielded the highest values (>75) because of a high degree of immediate mortality with very little recovery. Our results provide baseline information regarding potential of candidate insecticides against adult H. halys and highlight the need to consider longer-term effects in establishing overall efficacy ratings against this invasive species.
Autoregressive model based algorithm for correcting motion and serially correlated errors in fNIRS

Systemic physiology and motion-induced artifacts represent two major sources of confounding noise in functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) imaging that can reduce the performance of analyses and inflate false positive rates (i.e., type I errors) of detecting evoked hemodynamic responses. In this work, we demonstrated a general algorithm for solving the general linear model (GLM) for both deconvolution (finite impulse response) and canonical regression models based on designing optimal pre-whitening filters using autoregressive models and employing iteratively reweighted least squares. We evaluated the performance of the new method by performing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses using synthetic data, in which serial correlations, motion artifacts, and evoked responses were controlled via simulations, as well as using experimental data from children (3–5 years old) as a source baseline physiological noise and motion artifacts. The new method outperformed ordinary least squares (OLS) with no motion correction, wavelet based motion correction, or spline interpolation based motion correction in the presence of physiological and motion related noise. In the experimental data, false positive rates were as high as 37% when the estimated p-value was 0.05 for the OLS methods. The false positive rate was reduced to 5–9% with the proposed method. Overall, the method improves control of type I errors and increases performance when motion artifacts are present.
Strategies for management of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation: the "doubling of baseline CMV pp65 antigenemia" and the "cidofovir as rescue treatment approaches.

Recently 2 papers dealing with strategies for management of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in patients receiving bone marrow transplantation (BMT) have made interesting suggestions,[1][1],[2][2] but we would like to make some comments. Nichols et al[1][1] found that a more than 2-fold increase of
039 Anomalies of water and its solutions, and the problem of sudden nucleation in the phenomenology of biopreservation

The formation of crystals during cooling of simple liquids is normally a mild process, as metastability is relieved by a process of nucleation (usually heterogeneous and random) and the growth of a modest number of separate crystals. However, there are cases in which it can be sudden and explosive and if this would be the case for biological tissues being processed for preservation, it would obviously be a very bad thing. Unfortunately, water and its solutions provide one of the examples where this behavior may be encountered. We discuss the background to the sudden nucleation phenomenon observed long ago without proper understanding in concentrated ionic solutions, describe other examples (never published) of an exaggerated form of the same phenomenon when the initial vitrification was carried out under pressure, and explain its relation to the famous anomalies of water. These we will link to observations in related cases like the crystallization of liquid silicon, and the occurrence of nano-droplets of pure silica in many binary silicate glass systems. Finally, we will discuss the possible relevance of some recent observations on benign interactions of biomaterials with certain hydrated ionic liquids5, to a new “cryo-ionic” approach to biopreservation (replace water by gdm. Source of funding: None declared. Conflict of interest: None declared. austenangell@gmail.com
Optimizing performance and energy of HPC applications on POWER7

Power consumption is a critical consideration in high performance computing systems and it is becoming the limiting factor to build and operate Petascale and Exascale systems. When studying the power consumption of existing systems running HPC workloads, we find power, energy and performance are closely related leading to the possibility to optimize energy without sacrificing (much or at all) performance. This paper presents the power features of the POWER7 and shows how innovative software can use these features to optimize the power and energy consumptions of large cluster running HPC workloads. This paper starts by presenting the new features which have been introduced in POWER7 to manage power consumption and the tools available to manage and record the power consumption. We then analyze the power consumption and performance of different HPC workloads at various levels of the POWER7 server (processor, memory, io) for different frequencies. We propose a model to predict both the power and energy consumption of real workloads based on their performance characteristics measured by hardware performance counters (HPM). We show that the power estimation model can achieve less than 5% error versus actual measurements. In conclusion, we present how an innovative scheduler can help to optimize both power and energy consumptions of large HPC clusters.
The development of a long, coiled, optic nerve in the stalk-eyed fly Cyrtodiopsis whitei

In the stalk-eyed fly Cyrtodiopsis whitei (Diopsidae; Diptera), the relatively long optic nerve develops within the tight lumen of a very short eyestalk. Axonal growth is generally considered in terms of path finding, selective fasciculation, and towing. Physical forces that are necessary for axon lengthening are generated either by the growth cone or by the growth of surrounding tissues. Therefore, it is surprising to encounter a loosely coiled nerve apparently lacking any attachments that could allow for pull, or towing, of the nerve. In this study, we used histological sections and whole-mount preparations to confirm that the optic nerve of the stalk-eyed fly indeed elongates without the external application of tension to the nerve. Secondly, we examined the distribution of cytoskeletal elements and selected proteins that may be involved in axon extension. Staining against the vesicle fusion proteins SNAP-24 and SNAP-25 consistently results in stronger staining in the rapidly extending optic nerve than in a control nerve, suggesting a possible role of these proteins in the extension process. On a gross morphological level, SNAP-24/25 as well as the cytoskeletal elements actin and tubulin are uniformly distributed throughout the lengths of the growing nerve, suggesting that nerve elongation is distributed rather than localized. Finally, we identified glia as a possible source for tension within the nerve bundle. Glia proliferate rapidly in the optic nerve but not in the control nerve. Much work continues to focus on the growth of axons in culture, but this study is one of the few that considers the dynamics of nerve bundle extension as a whole.
Pattern-Based Interactive Diagnosis of Multiple Disorders: The MEDAS System

A knowledge-based interactive sequential diagnostic system is introduced which provides for diagnosis of multiple disorders in several body systems. The knowledge base consists of disorder patterns in a hierarchical structure that constitute the background medical information required for diagnosis in the domain under consideration (emergency and critical care medicine, in our case). Utilizing this knowledge base, the diagnostic process is driven by a multimembership classification algorithm for diagnostic assessment as well as for information acquisition [1]. A key characteristic of the system is congenial man-machine interface which comes to expression in, for instance, the flexibility it offers to the user in controlling its operation. At any stage of the diagnostic process the user may decide on an operation strategy that varies from full user control, through mixed initiative to full system control. Likewise, the system is capable of explaining to the user the reasoning process for its decisions. The model is independent of the knowledge base, thereby permitting continuous update of the knowledge base, as well as expansions to include disorders from other disciplines. The information structure lends itself to compact storage and provides for efflcient computation. Presently, the system contains 53 high-level disorders which are diagnosed by means of 587 medical findings.
Influence of methotrexate and cisplatin on tumor progression and survival in the VM mouse model of systemic metastatic cancer

We recently identified a new tumor (VM-M3), which arose spontaneously in the brain of an inbred VM mouse. When grown outside the brain, the VM-M3 tumor expresses all major biological processes of metastasis to include local invasion, intravasation, immune system survival, extravasation, and secondary tumor formation involving lung, liver, kidney, spleen and brain. The VM-M3 tumor also expresses multiple properties of macrophage-like cells similar to those described previously in numerous human metastatic cancers suggesting that the VM-M3 model will be useful for studying most types of metastatic cancer, regardless of tissue origin. VM-M3 tumor cells, expressing firefly luciferase (VM-M3/Fluc), were grown subcutaneously in the immunocompetent and syngeneic VM mouse host. The antimetastatic effects of methotrexate (MTX; 25 mg/kg) and cisplatin (10-15 mg/kg) were evaluated following i.p. injections administered once/wk for 3 weeks. Bioluminescent imaging was used to measure VM-M3/Fluc growth and metastasis. All (12/12) control mice developed systemic cancer within 21 days of subcutaneous VM-M3/Fluc implantation. Although methotrexate did not inhibit VM-M3/Fluc primary tumor growth, it reduced lung and liver metastasis by 50% and completely inhibited metastasis to kidneys, spleen and brain. Cisplatin significantly reduced primary tumor growth, blocked metastasis to lung, liver, kidneys, spleen and brain, and significantly increased survival in all treated animals. Our findings show that the response of the VM-M3/Fluc tumor to MTX and cisplatin is similar to that reported in humans with metastatic disease. These findings indicate that the VM-M3/Fluc tumor is a reliable preclinical model for evaluating antimetastatic cancer therapies and underlying control pathways.
Barriers to Psychologists Seeking Mental Health Care

Professional psychologists provide help to people in need, but how freely do psychologists seek psychotherapy themselves when facing personal challenges and struggles? What obstacles make it difficult for professional psychologists to seek psychotherapy? A survey of 260 professional psychologists (52% response rate) was conducted to investigate the frequency of various stressors impacting professional psychologists and the barriers they experience in seeking mental health services. Though none of the stressors were rated with particularly high frequencies, burnout was identified as the most frequent problem. Difficulty finding a psychotherapist and a lack of time were identified as the greatest obstacles to seeking psychotherapy. Practice and training implications are discussed as well as future research directions.
Real-Time Object Specific Recognition via Raster Scan Video Processing

Most real-time video recognition systems have historically relied upon region of interest processing based on low level properties such as pixel color to quickly reduce the computational load required for real-time performance. Because these low levelproperties are quite sensitive to lighting variations, they are limited in their application scope. This paper presents an approach which segments objects of interest via higher level relational properties overcoming such limitations. These relations are autoassociatively and incrementally constructed through a processing structure called raster scan video processing in a hierarchical manner. Relational properties of interest are then obtained with local object specific processes. The compactness of this processing structure has allowed it to be implemented on one TMS320C40 digital signal processing chip at a processing rate of three frames per second. The approach is applied to the problem of road sign recognition in realistic outdoor scenes. Video frame recognition results for stop and pedestrian signs are presented along with details of the DSP implementation.
Factors that predict which parents will address environmental asthma triggers

Abstract Rationale Environmental control measures are an important component of asthma self-management. Methods We analyzed the prevalence of asthma triggers and the frequency of how often parents instituted environmental control measures. Subjects were from a national sample of 896 children with asthma; between 2 and 12 years of age; and with no other pulmonary diseases. We collected data on insurance, race, gender, household income, asthma education exposure and severity of illness. Results We completed interviews with the parents of 896 of 1077 eligible patients (83% response rate). Patients had a mean age of 7.2 years; 65% were male; 13% had Medicaid insurance; 12% were African-American; and 31% had persistent asthma. 717/896 (80%) parents could identify at least one trigger (mean=2.2 triggers; range 0 to 9). 582/717 (82%) parents that could identify a trigger had instituted at least one environmental control measure (mean=2.0 measures; range 0 to 9). The 896 parents reported instituting 1796 actions. 5/1796 ( Conclusions Clinicians should not assume that they can predict which families will be more or less likely to adhere to environmental control recommendations. Futhermore, half of the actions that families instituted were not officially endorsed by national guidelines.
The Reflection of Light from a Sphere

When parallel light is reflected from a small perfect reflecting sphere the illumination is approximately independent of the angle of incidence and reflection. A formula is developed to study this approximation. Also a formula is given for the case of a sphere which is not supposed to be perfectly reflecting but reflects according to some law like Fresnel’s reflection law.
Intracellular elastin in generalized granuloma annulare

This report reviews thirteen cases of generalized granuloma annulare. The light and electron microscopic appearance of intracellular elastin particles found in eleven of these cases is described. These bodies were also noted in deep granuloma annulare, elastosis perforans serpiginosa, and a small percentage of localized granuloma annulare. They were not found in necrobiosis lipoidica.
Understanding Cluster Gas Evolution and Fine-Scale Cosmic Microwave Background Anisotropy with Deep Sunyaev-Zeldovich Effect Surveys

We investigate the impact of gas evolution on the expected yields from deep Sunyaev-Zeldovich (SZ) effect surveys, as well as on the expected SZ effect contribution to fine-scale anisotropy in the cosmic microwave background (CMB). The approximate yields from SZ effect surveys are remarkably insensitive to gas evolution, even though the observable properties of the resulting clusters can be markedly different. The CMB angular power spectrum at high multipoles (l 2000, 5') due to the SZ effect from clusters is quite sensitive to gas evolution. We show that moderate-resolution (≤ 1') SZ effect imaging of clusters found in deep SZ effect surveys should allow a good understanding of gas evolution in galaxy clusters, independent of the details of the nature of the gas evolution. Such an understanding will be necessary before precise cosmological constraints can be set from yields of large cluster surveys.
Hierarchical Classifier-Regression Ensemble for Multi-phase Non-linear Dynamic System Response Prediction: Application to Climate Analysis

A dynamic physical system often undergoes phase transitions in response to fluctuations induced on system parameters. For example, hurricane activity is the climate system's response initiated by a liquid-vapor phase transition associated with non-linearly coupled fluctuations in the ocean and the atmosphere. Because our quantitative knowledge about highly non-linear dynamic systems is very meager, scientists often resort to linear regression techniques such as Least Absolute Deviation (LAD) to learn the non-linear system's response (e.g., hurricane activity) from observed or simulated system's parameters (e.g., temperature, precipitable water, pressure). While insightful, such models still offer limited predictability, and alternatives intended to capture non-linear behaviors such as Stepwise Regression are often controversial in nature. In this paper, we hypothesize that one of the primary reasons for lack of predictability is the treatment of an inherently multi-phase system as being phase less. To bridge this gap, we propose a hybrid approach that first predicts the phase the system is in, and then estimates the magnitude of the system's response using the regression model optimized for this phase. Our approach is designed for systems that could be characterized by multi-variate spatio-temporal data from observations, simulations, or both.
A proton and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance study of neopentylmercury compounds

Abstract Substituent effects on 199 Hg 1 H and 199 Hg 13 C spinspin coupling constants have been studied for neopentylmercury derivatives, (CH 3 ) 3 CCH 2 HgR(or X), where R is covalently bonded Me, Et, t-Bu, neopentyl, and vinyl, and X is easily ionizable CN, Br, Cl, OCOCH 3 , and ONO 2 . Linear relationships exist between the methylene J ( 13 CH) and 2 J (HgH), 4 J (HgC) and 2 J (HgC) and 3 J (HgC); but deviations from linearity occur for the chloride, bromide, acetate, and nitrate in the relationships between 2 J (HgH) and 4 J (HgH), 2 J (HGH) and 2 J (HGC). These deviations are discussed in terms of hyperconjugative p π  d π bonding between the methylene CH bonds and mercury.
CHANGES IN LEAD CONCENTRATION OF FOODS STORED IN THEIR OPENED CANS

A study was made of the effect on the concentration of lead in canned fruits and juices when these food products are stored in their original containers after opening. Samples stored in a refrigerator were analyzed for lead upon initial opening, 2 days after opening, and 5 days after opening. Products in nonlacquered cans showed significant increases in lead concentration with time. The increase of lead in the food product could have an effect on estimates of average dietary intakes of lead if this practice is found to be widespread.
Interpretation of the Y * 0 (1405) Resonance

We attempt to show that the interpretation of the ${Y}_{0}^{*}(1405)$ resonance as a bound state of quarks is not ruled out by the data presently available. Our results, however, also indicate that such an interpretation does not answer some of the objections that have been raised to the more conventional picture of this resonance as $\overline{K}N$ bound state.
Calculation of Additional Lost Green Time at Closely Spaced Intersections

At closely spaced signalized intersections or interchanges, additional lost green time can occur at upstream intersections when there is a queue spillback. For an accurate estimation of capacities and delays at closely spaced intersections, it is necessary to account such additional lost time. The Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) 2010 provides a model for the estimation of the additional lost time due to the presence of a downstream queue. However, case studies indicate that the HCM model does not provide a very accurate estimation when the distance to the downstream queue is short. In this paper, a new model is developed for the estimation of additional lost time considering queue discharge patterns and traffic flow patterns. Simulation results show that the proposed model provides a more accurate estimation of additional lost time compared with the HCM model when the distance to the downstream queue is limited.
Malignant melanoma in the palate of a 3-month-old child.

Background Malignant mucosal melanoma of the head and neck is a rare cancer in adults that carries a grave prognosis. Three mucosal melanomas in pediatric patients have previously been reported. Methods We present here the youngest case of malignant mucosal melanoma of the head and neck in a 3-month-old boy. He presented with a 2 × 2-mm-pigmented lesion on the anterior maxillary alveolus. The patient was treated with local excision alone. Results The patient has remained disease free with regular follow-up for 117 months. Conclusion Based upon this case and the few cases reported in the literature, mucosal melanoma is a much less common disease in children than in adults. Further, juvenile mucosal melanoma displays a benign clinical behavior. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Head Neck 24: 91–94, 2002.
Fronto-striatal deficit in Parkinson's disease during semantic event sequencing.

Abstract Studies of Parkinson's disease (PD) suggest that cognitive deficits accompany the classically recognized motor symptoms, and that these cognitive deficits may result from damage to frontal–basal ganglia circuits. PD patients are impaired on ordering events and action components into coherent sequences. In this study, we examined early-stage, nondemented, medicated PD subjects and matched control subjects during a semantic event sequencing task using functional MRI (fMRI). The task required subjects to examine four pictures of meaningful events, determine the correct temporal relationship between each picture, and re-order the pictures into a coherent sequence. There were two main findings. First, we found abnormal activation within the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the “default” network in the PD group. Distinct areas of the PFC showed both hypoactivation and hyperactivation, whereas the “default” network showed reduced levels of resting activation in PD. Secondly, we observed left caudate hyperactivation in the PD group. The findings are discussed in relationship to how more activation may be compensatory, but does not necessarily mean efficient and correlated brain function.
An optimal product-reconfiguration policy due to order changes

It is not an uncommon problem that a finished product cannot be delivered to its customer due to order change. In many real-life applications, such as rack-mounted computer products, it is possible...
Descriptions: Predicates or quantifiers?

In this paper I revisit the main arguments for a predicate analysis of descriptions in order to determine whether they do in fact undermine Russell's theory. I argue that while the arguments without doubt provide powerful evidence against Russell's original theory, it is far from clear that they tell against a quantificational account of descriptions.
Is it an anarchist act to call oneself an anarchist? Judith Butler, John Turner and insurrectionary speech

Anarchists and homosexuals have periodically occupied similar positions in relation to US laws and policies: both have functioned as the needed outside against which the proper inside of political order can be established and maintained. Both have blurred the relation of words to deeds, speaking words that are forbidden because the words themselves are seen as dangerous deeds. Examining the deportation case of anarchist John Turner in 1903 and the 1993 Pentagon ban on homosexuals serving openly in the military, and utilizing the intellectual tools provided by Judith Butler in her analysis of speech acts, this article investigates the process of criminalizing an identity category as well as the political context from which that criminalization can be challenged. My goals are to make use of Butler’s arguments about insurrectionary speech to understand anarchism’s historical role in the American political imaginary, and to supplement Butler’s analysis with greater attention to the histories of anarchist struggle.
A study of the tunneling frequencies of CH3D in various crystalline environments

Abstract The tunneling frequencies of CH3D molecules in phase II of solid methane, as well as CH3D molecules adsorbed on graphite and MgO at sub-monolayer coverages, are computed considering both the crystalline and molecular fields. The procedure for computing the rotational energy levels of a hindered symmetric top in fields of C2 and C1 symmetry is outlined. The first step in the study of the tunneling frequencies of CH3D, is to determine the parameters in the potential function of CH4 by using atom-atom potentials. Using these parameters together with those determined from the analysis of the tunneling frequencies of CH3D using atom-atom potentials, it is possible to fully determine the potential function of CH3D. The computed tunneling frequencies of CH3D in phase II of solid methane and CH3D adsorbed on graphite are in excellent agreement with the observed results. The tunneling frequencies of CH3D adsorbed on MgO have been computed, but no experimental results are available.
Translational Science at the National Institute of Mental Health: Can Social Work Take Its Rightful Place?

Several recent national reports have noted that there is a 20-year gap between knowledge generated from our best clinical research and the utilization of that knowledge in our health and mental health care sectors. One solution to this dilemma has been the emergence of translational science. Translational science has become a top priority of the National Institute of Mental Health. The goal of translational science in mental health is to speed the use of findings from our best science into usual-care settings and to build partnerships between research and practice constituencies. The purpose of this article is to define translational science for social work, to provide a framework for translational research, and to outline an agenda of activity that will allow social work to become a significant driver in the translational research agenda in mental health services.
Competition for Mates in the Mole Salamander, Ambystoma Talpoideum: Tactics That May Maximize Male Mating Success

The relatively brief mating periods that are typical of mole salamanders (Amphibia: Caudata: Ambystomatidae) have surely selected for males that are efficient in locating and mating with females in the presence of high densities of competitors. We analyzed quantitatively the competitive mating tactics of the mole salamander, Ambystoma talpoideum, in two laboratory studies. First, we observed competitive interactions in encounters staged between two males and a single female. Such interactions were frequent, with males scrambling to interrupt one another's courtship efforts in an apparent attempt to 'steal' inseminations (and, we assume, fertilizations). The competitive behaviour patterns exhibited by male A. talpoideum appear typical of many other ambystomatid salamanders. We then conducted an experiment to determine the influence of a male-biased operational sex ratio on male mating effort (comparing the performance of target males placed with females alone and in the presence of three potential rivals). Contrary to our expectation, target males decreased their mating effort when density was high and the operational sex ratio was male-biased; many simply abandoned any attempt to court and mate. We hypothesize that decreased male mating effort under a currently male-biased operational sex ratio will be favoured if there exist alternative opportunities for relatively competition-free encounters with females. We suggest a method of testing this hypothesis using comparative data.
Robo is Abl to block N-Cadherin function

The molecular pathways involved in wiring the brain have just begun to be elucidated. Work in this issue of Nature Cell Biology has uncovered inhibitory interactions between two such pathways: Roundabout (Robo) and N-Cadherin. This discovery provides a potential mechanistic understanding of how pathways are used in a coordinated manner to guide axons.
Design of frequency-domain experiments for discrete-valued factors

We provide theoretical justification for the use of an existing technique for studying binary-valued inputs in the Fourier frequency domain. Extending this work, we propose two methods for handling general discrete-valued factors, and illustrate their use. The two methods are found to have complementary applicability. When combined with previously developed techniques, they generalize the frequency- domain approach to encompass discrete as well as continuous inputs.
Chemical reactions at metal/compound semiconductor interfaces: Au and GaAs

Abstract The reaction between Au thin films and GaAs substrates is discussed. The reaction proceeds by dissolution of the GaAs to form a AuGa solid solution, but regrowth of GaAs at the Au GaAs interface is occuring simultaneous with dissolution. The rate of this reaction depends upon the condition of the GaAs surface at the interface. Contrary to most systems, thin native oxides increase the rate of the reaction while oxide-free interfaces react more slowly. Sputter damaged, oxide-free interfaces react at an intermediate rate. Dopant from the substrate may segregate to the decomposed GaAs areas leading to the formation of an ohmic contact after reaction. Finally, heating sandwich structures of AuGe, As and Ga on GaAs to approximately 400°C results in isothermal regrowth of doped, smooth, planar ohmic contacts with low specific contact resistance. This procedure should be suitable for forming ohmic contacts on shallow junction devices.
The effects of coping style on virtual reality enhanced videogame distraction in children undergoing cold pressor pain

This study sought to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) enhanced interactive videogame distraction for children undergoing experimentally induced cold pressor pain and examined the role of avoidant and approach coping style as a moderator of VR distraction effectiveness. Sixty-two children (6–13 years old) underwent a baseline cold pressor trial followed by two cold pressor trials in which interactive videogame distraction was delivered both with and without a VR helmet in counterbalanced order. As predicted, children demonstrated significant improvement in pain tolerance during both interactive videogame distraction conditions. However, a differential response to videogame distraction with or without the enhancement of VR technology was not found. Children’s coping style did not moderate their response to distraction. Rather, interactive videogame distraction with and without VR technology was equally effective for children who utilized avoidant or approach coping styles.
Stereospecific analysis of hepatoma, host liver, and normal rat liver triglycerides from animals on chow and fat free diets

Triglycerides from normal liver, host liver, and hepatoma of rats maintained on chow and fat-free diets were subjected to stereospecific analysis. Normal and host liver triglycerides from animals on the same diet did not exhibit significant differences. Fat-free diet reduced polyunsaturated fatty acids in normal and host liver triglycerides, but had no effect upon hepatoma triglycerides. Each position of hepatoma and liver triglyceride glycerol exhibited a characteristic fatty acid composition. Palmitate concentrations were reduced dramatically and stearate levels were increased significantly at the 1 position of hepatoma triglycerides, relative to the corresponding position of liver triglycerides which were affected little by diet or tumor. Except for higher percentages of C-20 and higher fatty acids, common to all three positions, the composition of hepatoma triglycerides at the 2 position appeared normal. The 3 position of hepatoma triglycerides contained significantly higher percentages of stearate than liver. Data obtained previously for Ehrlich ascites cell triglycerides were in good agreement with this hepatoma. Data from these two neoplasms suggest that the metabolic system that regulates or controls the fatty acid composition at the 1 and 3 positions of normal tissue triglycerides does not function normally in neoplasms.
Synthesis and characterization of oligocyclosiloxanes via the hydrosilation of vinylsilanes and vinylsiloxanes with heptamethylcyclotetrasiloxane

The preparation of oligocyclosiloxanes via hydrosilation reactions has been investigated. Hydrosilation reactions employing heptamethylcyclotetrasiloxane and vinyl-containing silanes and siloxanes yielded a variety of oligocyclosiloxanes with various numbers of cyclosiloxane rings connected through tri-, tetra-, penta-, hexa-, hepta-, or octafunctional junctions. The oligocyclosiloxanes were characterized by gas chromatography, IR spectroscopy, 29Si-, 1H-, and 13C-NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and vapor phase osmometry. The polycyclics were redistributed with hexamethyldisiloxane and the resulting fragments analyzed by gas chromatography. All results were consistent with the formation of isomeric oligocyclosiloxanes due to a lack of absolute regioselectivity of the hydrosilation reaction. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.