cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transistor circuits in remote stimulation.

Abstract The great usefulness in neurophysiology, of a method of stimulating the brain of unanesthetized, unrestrained animals, has led to the development by others of remote stimulation by modulated radio frequency carriers and crystal diode receivers. The high transmitting power required, the directional effects, and the difficulty in determining the stimulating voltage, are all disadvantages of this method. These have, however, been overcome in the present study by the addition of miniature transistor amplifiers to the crystal detector. The receiver developed on this principle consists of a crystal diode detector followed by two stages of amplification using Raytheon CK-722 PNP transistors in “grounded emitter” circuits. With such a receiver mounted on the animal's collar and connected with subcutaneous leads to a bipolar electrode implanted in the brain, satisfactory stimulation has been obtained at distances from the transmitting antenna varying from 6 to 80 feet. The transmitter power required varied, with the distance, from 6 to 400 watts. With further miniaturization of the components, it may become possible to imbed the receiver subcutaneously.
Constraint-aware coordinated construction of generic structures

This paper presents a constraint-aware decentralized approach to construction with teams of robots. We present an extension to existing work on a distributed controller for robotic construction of simple structures. Our previous work described a set of adaptive algorithms for constructing truss structures given a target geometry using continuous and graph-based equal-mass partitioning [1], [2]. Using this work as a foundation, we present an algorithm which performs construction tasks and conforms to physical constraints while considering those constraints to parallelize tasks. This is accomplished by defining a mass function which reflects the priority of part placement and prevents physically impossible states. This mass function generates a set of pointmasses in ℝn, and we present a novel algorithm for finding a locally optimal, equal-mass, convex tessellation of such a set.
Minimizing bias in computer systems

INTRODUCTION A few Novembers ago I walked into my familiar voting place -the run-down social hall of a local church in Berkeley, California. The same old voting booths on tottering legs with scant curtains greeted me. Inside, however, was something new -a computerized voting card. With a bit of fumbling and careful reading of the directions, I think I figured the thing out. Cast my vote. Participated in the modem democracy. But nationwide, computer punch card tallying systems pose serious problems for fair elections. In particular, under-educated groups are more likely not to understand how the computerized system works and, thus, to invalidate their own votes by either not voting for a position, or by voting for more than one person per position [1]. This example begins to illustrate how the interface design of computerized voting systems can favor some groups over others. More generally, the example speaks to the problem of bias in computing technologies.
An historical perspective on mergers and acquisitions by major US accounting firms

This study presents an historical perspective on mergers and acquisitions by major US accounting firms throughout the twentieth century with special emphasis placed on such activity during the last fifty years of this period. The focus of this perspective is: (1) the importance of mergers and acquisitions in the formation and growth of major accounting firms; (2) the relationship between the internationalisation of trade and the internationalisation of major accounting firms; and (3) the ways in which accounting firms have used mergers as a response to an increasingly competitive environment.
Pyrazolopyridines : Effect of structural alterations on activity at adenosine- and GABAA-Receptors

A series of 4-substituted 1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine- 5-carboxylic acid derivatives related in structure to the putative anxiolytics cartazolate, tracazolate, and etazolate were assessed for affinity at A1- and A2A-adenosine receptors and at GABA-, benzodiazepine-, and picrotoxinin- binding sites of the GABAA-receptor-channel. None of the derivatives had markedly greater affinity at A1-receptors than cartazolate (Ki-0.5 μM), but many had markedly lower affinity than cartazolate (Ki-1.5 μM) at A2A-receptors. At the benzodiazepine-binding site of GABAA-receptors some of the derivatives enhanced [3H]diazepam binding, as did cartazolate and GABA, some had no effect and some inhibited binding. Most of the derivatives inhibited binding of the benzodiazepine-antagonist [3H]Ro 15-1788. At the GABA-binding site, only a few of the derivatives inhibited binding of the antagonist [3H]SR-95531, as did GABA. At the picrotoxinin-binding site, many inhibited binding of [35S]TBPS, but none were as potent as cartazolate or GABA. Analysis of the interactions indicates that stimulation of [3H]diazepam binding is allosteric and results from binding of the pyrazolopyridine at the GABA site or a subdomain of that site, while inhibition of [3H]Ro 15-1788 binding is competitive and due to binding at the benzodiazepine site. Inhibition of [35S]TBPS binding at the picrotoxinin-channel site appears to be allosteric through the GABA site and/or by direct competition at the channel site. Alterations in structure markedly alter the affinities of pyrazolopyridines at such sites on the GABAA-receptor-channel. Drug Dev. Res. 42:41–56, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc. This article is a US Government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
Upper Neogene stratigraphy and tectonics of Death Valley - A review

Abstract New tephrochronologic, soil-stratigraphic and radiometric-dating studies over the last 10 years have generated a robust numerical stratigraphy for Upper Neogene sedimentary deposits throughout Death Valley. Critical to this improved stratigraphy are correlated or radiometrically-dated tephra beds and tuffs that range in age from > 3.58 Ma to
The Smirnov statistic: an incorrect test for vertical distribution patterns

Abstract The Smirnov two sample test has been used to test differences in vertical distributions of planktonic organisms. The assumption of random and independent sampling of individuals which underlies this test insures that the test statistic is sensitive only to mean abundance at depth and is not influenced by horizontal variation about the mean. This assumption makes the test inappropriate for evaluating data collected by nets, pumps or water bottles.
The Magnetic Susceptibility of Nd Metal

The magnetic susceptibility of neodymium metal has been measured over the temperature range of 20.4\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K-300\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. The metal was found to obey a Curie-Weiss law above 145\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K with a paramagnetic Curie point of -16\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K and an effective moment of 3.68 Bohr magnetons. Near 145\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K there appears to be a change in slope of the curve of $\frac{1}{\ensuremath{\chi}}$ vs $T$. From 145\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K to 31.5\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K the metal again obeys a Curie-Weiss law with a paramagnetic Curie point of about 1\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K and an effective moment of 3.35 Bohr magnetons. The low-field susceptibility at 20.4\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K is much larger than predicted by the low-temperature Curie-Weiss law, and the susceptibility has a definite field dependence.
Topotecan in patients with advanced neuroendocrine tumors: a phase II study with significant hematologic toxicity.

AbstractNew agents with antitumor activity in neuroendocrine tumors are sorely needed. We therefore conducted a phase II study of topotecan (TOPA) 1.5 mg/m2/d for 5 days every 3 weeks in 22 patients with advanced carcinoid and islet cell tumors. Severe neutropenia in 8 of 11 patients (72%) prompted
The effect of biodégradation on the determination of some chemodynamic properties of phthalate esters

Abstract Initial efforts to determine some chemodynamic properties of three phthalate esters (PEs) in soil‐water systems gave erratic results. This behavior can be explained by the occurrence of biodegradation of PEs over time scales encountered in laboratory investigations. Results are presented which demonstrate that biodegradation can be significant in the laboratory and should be controlled.
The Theorem of Equipartition of Energy Revisited.

The principles of quantum symmetry are applied to the dynamical behavior of a system of particles in a solid-state configuration with each particle oscillating about an equilibrium position. It is demonstrated that in the high-temperature (classical) limit, the system behaves as a truly statistically independent assembly of harmonic oscillators with each degree of freedom contributing an average amount κT/2 to the total Hamiltonian.
The riddle of the sphinx redux.

Understanding the mechanisms of glucocorticoid-mediated inhibition of inflammation has been challenging. This is particularly true with regard to the development of drugs that mimic the anti-inflammatory benefits of steroids while avoiding the untoward metabolic effects. Forster et al. report that the inhibition of stress-induced mesangial-cell apoptosis by dexamethasone is mediated by sphingosine-1-phosphate. These findings identify alternative pathways whereby the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of glucocorticoids can be probed.
Structure-property behavior of novel Ti/poly(tetramethylene oxide) (PTMO) and Zr/PTMO hybrid CERAMER materials prepared by the sol gel method

The structure-property relationships are presented for two new organic/inorganic hybrid network systems which were prepared by the sol gel method using either titanium tetraisopropoxide or zirconium tetra-n-propoxide with silane end-capped poly(tetramethylene oxide) (PTMO) oligomers. These novel network materials, broadly referred to as CERAMERs, are optically transparent and monolithic in form, as were CERAMERs prepared with PTMO and tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) as the metal alkoxide in the sol gel process. The dynamic mechanical behavior of the titanium- and zirconium-containing CERAMERs exhibit similar trends as reported for the TEOS/PTMO CERAMERs. The stress-elongation response, however, exhibits yielding behavior and higher moduli and ultimate stress at break. The small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) behavior of these materials indicates a morphology similar to that measured in other CERAMERs prepared previously. A morphological model developed for these novel hybrid materials is described. Preliminary dynamic dielectric behavior were interpreted in terms of the polarization phenomena known as the Maxwell-Wagner-Sillar effect.
Pion-nucleus double charge exchange and the nuclear shell model.

The pion-nucleus double charge exchange reaction is studied with special emphasis on nuclear structure. The reaction mechanism and nuclear structure aspects of the process are separated using both the plane-wave and distorted-wave impulse approximations. Predictions are made employing both the seniority model and a full shell model (with a single active orbit). Transitions to the double analog state and to the ground state of the residual nucleus are computed. The seniority model yields particularly simple relations among double charge exchange cross sections for nuclei within the same shell. Limitations of the seniority model and of the plane-wave impulse approximation are discussed as well as extensions to the generalized seniority scheme. Applications of the foregoing ideas to single charge exchange are also presented.
Laparoscopic continent appendicocecostomy

Purpose Most of the previously reported techniques to construct a laparoscopic appendicocecostomy (LA) for antegrade continent enemas (ACE) do not create a continence mechanism with a submucosal tunnel, which carries the risk of leakage of stool. We report a technique to construct a LA for ACE, which creates a submucosal tunnel, mimicking the open technique (Modified Malone). Material and methods The appendix was isolated and the cecum mobilized. A 4 cm seromuscular incision was done from the base of the appendix along the tenia and the proximal appendix was placed in a submucosal tunnel created by reapproximatiion of the seromuscular layer of the cecum with interrupted sutures. Under laparoscopic vision the appendix was brought out through the umbilical site and anastomosed to the V flap previously prepared in the umbilical skin. A catheter was left in place for four weeks. Results There were two patients, 8.5 and 8.6 years old. Diagnosis were neurogenic bowel dysfunction secondary to lipomeningocele and tethered spinal cord in 1 child and high imperforated anus and tethered spinal cord in the other. Mean operative time was 3.5 hours. Blood loss was negligible. There were no complications. Patients were discharge home at 3 and 4 days postoperatively. At 9 and 14 months after surgery there has not been difficulties with catheterization or stoma related complications. Both patients are compliant with antegrade enemas, continent of stool and very satisfied with the procedure. Conclusions The appendicocecostomy for ACE created with a submucosal tunnel and located at the umbilicus with open surgery provides a concealed stoma with easy access and no leaking problems. Following the same principles we were able to reproduce these technique laparoscopically to provide a reliable channel with the advantages of minimal invasiveness and improved cosmesis.
On the effect of chess training on scholastic achievement

What are the effects of chess training—especially on scholastic achievement among school-aged students? Can chess instruction facilitate the acquisition of scholastic competency? The current state of the research literature is that chess training tends not to provide educational benefits. This article provides a critical review of research on the effects of chess training on the scholastic achievement levels of school-aged students.
The role of diabetes in hepatocellular carcinoma: a case-control study among United States Veterans.

The role of diabetes in hepatocellular carcinoma: a case-control study among United States veterans
Flow velocities of Alaskan glaciers

Our poor understanding of tidewater glacier dynamics remains the primary source of uncertainty in sea level rise projections. On the ice sheets, mass lost from tidewater calving exceeds the amount lost from surface melting. In Alaska, the magnitude of calving mass loss remains unconstrained, yet immense calving losses have been observed. With 20% of the global new-water sea level rise coming from Alaska, partitioning of mass loss sources in Alaska is needed to improve sea level rise projections. Here we present the first regionally comprehensive map of glacier flow velocities in Central Alaska. These data reveal that the majority of the regional downstream flux is constrained to only a few coastal glaciers. We find regional calving losses are 17.1 Gt a−1, which is equivalent to 36% of the total annual mass change throughout Central Alaska. Alaskan mountain glaciers are losing ice and contribute to sea level rise, but contributions from specific ice-loss mechanisms are not known. Here, calving losses in Central Alaska are found to equal 36% of the net regional mass change each year and regional flux is dictated largely by snow accumulation rates.
Hematology: Improved outcome for young adult patients with ALL.

The success achieved in the management of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia has now been extended to older adolescents and young adults, as demonstrated recently by Nachman and coauthors. The effectiveness of treatment with an intense multiagent chemotherapy protocol renders the use of allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation in first remission questionable, and calls for careful evaluation of the use of this chemotherapy in this patient population.
A First Look at Atmospheric Dynamics and Temperature Variations on Titan

Pollack (1973) has used a radiative equilibrium model to match radiometric data for Titan and infers the atmospheric mass, composition, opacity, and gross vertical thermal structure. These results are used to estimate the atmospheric temperature variations by means of scaling analysis, taking into account dynamics both for a baroclinic wave regime and for an axially symmetric circulation regime. Horizontal temperature variations of the atmosphere and surface are found to be very small, and the circulation is found to be weak and probably axially symmetric. The small temperature variations appear to preclude the storage of volatiles in polar caps, so that the present atmospheric methane content may be due to a balance between outgassing and photodissociation.
Effect of interphase mixing on the structure of calcium silicate intergranular film/silicon nitride crystal interfaces

Molecular-dynamics simulations of intergranular films (IGF) containing Si, O, N, and Ca in contact with Si3N4 surfaces containing different levels of interface mixing of the species from the IGF with the crystal surfaces were performed using a multibody interatomic potential. This mixing is equivalent to the formation of a roughened silicon oxynitride crystal surface. With significant interphase mixing at the crystal surfaces, less ordering into the IGF caused by the compositionally modified oxynitride interfaces is observed. Such results are in contrast to our earlier data that showed significant ordering into the IGF induced by the ideally terminated crystal surfaces with no interphase mixing. In all cases, the central position of the first peak in the Si-O pair distribution function (PDF) at the interface ranges from 1.62 to 1.64 A, consistent with recent experimental findings. The central position of the first peak in the Si-N PDF ranges from 1.72 to 1.73 A, consistent with experimental results. With ...
Preliminary Experience with Magnetic Resonance Venography: Comparison with Findings at Surgical Exploration

While conventional magnetic resonance imaging has been described for the evaluation of the venous system, we have recently developed the technique of magnetic resonance venography (MRV), which generates three-dimensional projection venograms. Our purpose was to determine if MRV reliably images the venous system by comparison with findings at surgical exploration. Thirteen of fourteen consecutive patients undergoing bypass surgery (26 limbs) were studied by 2D time-of-flight MRV preoperatively from the inguinal ligament to the ankle bilaterally. The average examination time was 50 min. The size and quality of each saphenous vein were recorded at the saphenofemoral junction, mid-thigh, knee, mid-calf, and malleolus. Intraoperatively the quality and size of each vein were measured in situ and when distended by saline. Twelve veins were of good quality. MRV predicted this in every case. One vein, found to be recanalized, had an abnormally thick wall noted on MRV. MRV measurements of average vein size were intermediate between that of the in situ and distended vein and correlated most closely with the distended vein (R = 0.74, P < 0.001). The superficial and deep femoral veins and lesser saphenous veins were routinely visualized by MRV; thus a complete map of all available vein was obtained by a single study. It is concluded that MRV is an accurate method of venous imaging as confirmed by findings at operative exploration. This new technique holds promise as a noninvasive method for evaluation of the venous system and warrants further investigation.
Nuclei of the solitary tract: efferent projections to the lower brain stem and spinal cord of the cat.

The efferent projections from the solitary complex to the lower brain stem and spinal cord were studied in the cat with the autoradiographic anterograde axonal transport and retrograde horseradish peroxidase (HRP) techniques. A revised cytoarchitectonic description of the caudal two-thirds of the complex is presented in which the complex was subdivided into six nuclei: lateral, ventrolateral, intermediate, medial, parvocellular, and commissural solitary tract nuclei. Following injections of 3H amino acids into electrophysiologically defined regions of the complex in which cardiac or respiratory units were recorded, labeled fibers could be traced to a number of sites in the caudal brain stem including the medial and lateral parabrachial nuclei, Kolliker-Fuse nucleus and the area ventral to this nucleus, lateral periaqueductal gray matter, ambiguus complex, which consists of the retrofacial, ambiguus and retroambiguus nuclei, ventrolateral reticular nucleus (in an area equivalent to the A1 cell group of Dahlstrom and Fuxe, '64), medial accessory olive, paramedian reticular formation, and lateral cuneate nucleus. Descending solitario-spinal projections have been traced bilaterally, but predominantly to the contralateral side, to the region of the phrenic motor neurons in the C4-C6 ventral horn, to the thoracic ventral horn, and intermediolateral cell column. Confirmatory evidence of some of these projections was obtained from a series of HRP experiments. Mainly small neurons of the parvocellular, medial and commissural solitary tract nuclei project to the region of the parabrachial and Kolliker-Fuse nuclei. The lateral solitary nucleus projects almost exclusively to the ipsilateral medial accessory olive. It was not possible to interpret conclusively the labeling seen in the medium and large neurons of the ventrolateral solitary nucleus after HRP injections made in the region of the ambiguus-retroambiguus complex due to the problem of fibers of passage. Following injections of HRP into the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, or sacral spinal cord, retrograde cell labeling was seen in the solitary complex. Cells in the intermediate and commissural nuclei were labeled after all four types of experiments. In the ventrolateral nucleus, medium sized neurons were predominantly labeled after the cervical spinal cord experiments, while large sized neurons were labeled mainly after the thoracic spinal cord injections. The potential physiological significance of these connections is discussed in terms of central control of cardiovascular and respiratory functions.
Vocalizatons of chimpanzees in non-caged captivity

1) The chimpanzee vocal system is an emotionally linked vocal response developed on a standard pre-symbolic primate system. 2) Differences in number of sounds recorded by different observers may be due to personal choice, or due actual presence or absence of certain sound types in different living situations. Further research is needed in this case before comparisons can be made. 3) Idiosyncratic use of certain signals may serve as a basis for growth of local dialects in different areas. Spread of such dialects may be related to the amount of respect accorded to dominant animals. More study may shed light on the growth and development of pre-symbolic systems.
Behavioral comparison of the effectiveness of irritative and non-irritative lesions in producing hypothalamic hyperphagia

Abstract Lesions were made in the ventromedial hypothalamus of rats using irritative (anodal electrolytic, stainless steel electrode) and non-irritative (cathodal electrolytic, stainless steel electrode; anodal electrolytic, platinum electrode; radio-frequency) techniques to assess the role of the deposition of metallic ions in the production of hyperphagia. The results showed that while only 3 out of 35 rats in the non-irritative condition became hyperphagic, all animals in the irritative condition became hyperphagic. It was concluded that the deposition of metallic ions accompanying the production of a lesion with an irritative technique does play a significant role in the production of hyperphagia.
Isoplanicity measurements for calibration of speckle holography amplitudes

Abstract We show how the technique of astronomical speckle holography is dependent upon the degree of isoplanicity between the object and the discrete point source. A well calibrated measurement of the degree of correlation between two quasi-instantaneous simultaneous point source speckle patterns (separation = 2.6″) are presented to illustrate this non-isoplanatic effect as a function of the spatial frequency. This two-dimensional measurement is in qualitative agreement with previously computed models and shows a high degree of correlation at seeing dominated frequencies with a severe attenuation (but not total loss of correlation) for frequencies approaching the diffraction limit. We show how such measurements may be used to reweight (calibrate) the Fourier amplitude of a speckle holographic image observed under similar seeing conditions in order to compensate for the non-isoplanatic degradation at high spatial frequencies.
GASZ Is Essential for Male Meiosis and Suppression of Retrotransposon Expression in the Male Germline

Nuage are amorphous ultrastructural granules in the cytoplasm of male germ cells as divergent as Drosophila, Xenopus, and Homo sapiens. Most nuage are cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein structures implicated in diverse RNA metabolism including the regulation of PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) synthesis by the PIWI family (i.e., MILI, MIWI2, and MIWI). MILI is prominent in embryonic and early post-natal germ cells in nuage also called germinal granules that are often associated with mitochondria and called intermitochondrial cement. We find that GASZ (Germ cell protein with Ankyrin repeats, Sterile alpha motif, and leucine Zipper) co-localizes with MILI in intermitochondrial cement. Knockout of Gasz in mice results in a dramatic downregulation of MILI, and phenocopies the zygotene–pachytene spermatocyte block and male sterility defect observed in MILI null mice. In Gasz null testes, we observe increased hypomethylation and expression of retrotransposons similar to MILI null testes. We also find global shifts in the small RNAome, including down-regulation of repeat-associated, known, and novel piRNAs. These studies provide the first evidence for an essential structural role for GASZ in male fertility and epigenetic and post-transcriptional silencing of retrotransposons by stabilizing MILI in nuage.
A Primer for Social Work Research on Disaster

ABSTRACT This paper offers to schools of social work a conceptual framework and specific tactics intended to position them for much-needed research roles in response to natural or technological disasters. Based on experience gained in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew in Miami, Florida in 1992, potential research themes, needs and opportunities are identified, along with policy, organizational, and resource barriers to investigation encountered in the post-disaster context. The necessity of advance preparation for disaster research is emphasized, along with strategies for readiness. Design and methodology are discussed, and specific approaches are recommended regarding framing questions, becoming immersed in the multidisciplinary disaster services research community before the fact, research design, instrumentation, and data collection process and administration. Based on Breznitz and Goldberger (1982), Derogatis (1982), Elliott (1982), Lazarus (1984), and Sarafino (1990), a stress-mediation theory is sug...
A software reuse measure: monitoring an enterprise-level model driven development process

The purpose of the research discussed here is to establish a metric for the measurement of reuse in a generic enterprise-level model context and to use this approach to create a specific metric for a company. The paper demonstrates how a software development firm can monitor the reuse success in the development process using the measure. Traditionally, the reuse rate is defined as the percentage of the development effort retrieved as code segments from a software repository. The metric proposed here extends this definition to include reuse of generic enterprise-level model components. An example is given of the successful assessment of a reuse percentage for a software developer's actual project.
Newton—Goldstein convergence rates for convex constrained minimization problems with singular solutions

Convergence rates of Newton-Goldstein sequences are estimated for convex constrained minimization problems with singular solutionsξ, i.e., solutions at which the local quadratic approximationQ(ξ, x) to the objective functionF grows more slowly than ∥x − ξ∥2 for admissible vectorsx nearξ. For a large class of iterative minimization methods with quadratic subproblems, it is shown that the valuesrn =F(xn)−infΩF are of orderO(n−1/3) at least. For the Newton—Goldstein method this estimate is sharpened slightly torn =O(n−1/2) when the second Frechet differentialF″ is Lipschitz continuous and the admissible set Ω is bounded. Still sharper estimates are derived when certain growth conditions are satisfied byF or its local linear approximation atξ. The most surprising conclusion is that Newton—Goldstein sequences can convergesuperlinearly to a singular extremalξ when〈F′(ξ), x − ξ〉 ≥ A∥x − ξ∥v for someA > 0, somev ∈ (2,2.5) and allx in Ω nearξ, and that this growth condition onF′(ξ) is entirely natural for a nontrivial class of constrained minimization problems on feasible sets Ω =ℒ1{[0,1],U} withU a uniformly convex set in ℝd. Feasible sets of this kind are commonly encountered in the optimal control of continuous-time dynamical systems governed by differential equations, and may be viewed as infinite-dimensional limits of Cartesian product setsUk in ℝkd. Superlinear convergence of Newton—Goldstein sequences for the problem (Ω,F) suggests that analogous sequences for increasingly refined finite-dimensional approximation (Ukd,Fk) to (Ω,F) will exhibit convergence properties that are in some sense “uniformly good” ink ask → ∞.
Technology mapping for Field Programmable Gate Arrays using Content-Addressable Memory (CAM)

Abstract The growing complexity of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA’s) is leading to architectures with high input cardinality look-up tables (LUT’s). This paper describes a methodology for area-optimal combinational technology mapping, specifically designed for such FPGA architectures. This methodology, called LURU, leverages the parallel search capabilities of Content-Addressable Memories (CAM’s) to outperform traditional mapping algorithms in both execution time and quality of results. The LURU algorithm is fundamentally different from other techniques for technology mapping in that LURU uses textual representations of circuit topology in order to efficiently store and search for circuit patterns in a CAM. A circuit is mapped to the target LUT technology using exact, inexact, or hybrid matching techniques. Common subcircuit expressions (CSE’s) are also identified and used for architectural optimization—a small set of CSE’s is shown to effectively cover an average of 96% of the test circuits. LURU was tested with the ISCAS ’85 suite of combinational benchmark circuits and compared with the mapping algorithms FlowMap and CutMap. The area requirement of LURU’s mapping is, on average, 20% less than FlowMap or CutMap. The asymptotic runtime complexity of LURU is shown to be better than that of both FlowMap and CutMap.
Discrimination of eolian and pyroclastic-surge processes in the generation of cross-bedded tuffs, Jemez Mountains volcanic field, New Mexico

Discrimination of pyroclastic deposits emplaced by volcanic processes and reworked pyroclastic sediments is a primary objective of studies in volcaniclastic strata. Cross-bedded tuffs of both eolian and pyroclastic-surge origins are identified within the late Miocene Peralta Tuff Member of the Bearhead Rhyolite, in north-central New Mexico. Distribution, paleoflow directions, grain-size characteristics, and depositional structures permit discrimination of these two similar facies. Eolian tuffs exhibit structures diagnostic of eolian sands, are relatively well sorted, and lack both the fine ash and coarse lapilli and bombs typically found in surge deposits. Discrimination between eolian reworked and primary surge pyroclastic deposits is critical for volcanic hazard studies near modern volcanoes and for correct interpretation of proximity to vents in ancient volcaniclastic sequences.
Sleep-disordered breathing in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: challenges and opportunities

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) may be a treatable risk factor in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the most common inherited cardiomyopathy. Evidence suggests a high prevalence of SDB in HCM. We summarize the pathophysiology of SDB as it relates to hypertension, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and sudden cardiac death in patients with HCM. The implications regarding the care of patients with HCM and SDB are discussed as well as the knowledge deficits needing further exploration.
Fos in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus of House Mouse Lines That Reveal a Different Phase-Delay Response to the Same Light Pulse

Increased light intensity of a 5-min light pulse is positively correlated with Fos mRNA and Fos protein levels in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of hamsters. These findings suggest that the level of Fos activation is proportional to the light intensity and that the magnitude of the phase-shift response depends on the level of Fos activation. However, to what extent different phase-delay responses to the same light pulse are mediated by differential Fos activation is unknown. To elucidate this, the authors used selected house mouse lines that reveal an almost threefold difference in phase-delay responses in constant darkness (DD) between circadian time (CT) 16 and CT 20 to the same light pulse. The authors measured wheel-running activity and subjected male mice of these lines to a 15-min light pulse at CT 16 after 2 weeks in DD. The behavioral response was measured and 10 to 12 days later the animals were again subjected to the same light pulse at CT 16. One hour after the start of the second light pulse, the animals were sacrificed for Fos immunocytochemistry. Results indicate a significant difference between the lines in the phase-delay response (F2,26 = 5.112, p < 0.017) and the level of Fos activation (F2,26 = 27.15, p < 0.0001) after a 15-min light pulse at CT 16. These findings support the hypothesis that the magnitude of the phase-delay response is proportional to the number of cells in the SCN that exhibit Fos induction after the same 15-min light pulse at CT 16 in DD. It also indicates a possible difference in the input pathways among the lines.
Sperm attachment and penetration competence in the human oocyte: a possible aetiology of fertilization failure involving the organization of oolemmal lipid raft microdomains influenced by the ΔΨm of subplasmalemmal mitochondria

The roles of oolemmal lipid raft microdomains enriched in the ganglioside GM1 and the tetraspanin protein CD9 were investigated as causative agents in fertilization failure in human IVF where spermatozoa progress to the oolemma but fail to attach or, if attached, to penetrate. The findings show that specific configurations of GM1 lipid raft microdomains are consistent with attachment and penetration, while microdomains composed of CD9 lipid rafts, a protein known to be critical for penetration, do not appear to have a central role in the initial stages of attachment. The relative magnitude of the potential difference across the inner membrane (ΔΨm) in mitochondria localized to a stable subplasmalemmal domain appears to influence the organization of GM1 but not CD9 lipid raft microdomains in the corresponding oolemma. The findings present a novel view of how fertilization competence may be established in the human oocyte and a means by which certain fertilization failures that occur after conventional clinical IVF can be identified and explained in the unfortunate instance of fertilization arrest at the oolemma.
Microemulsion-processed bismuth nanoparticles

Abstract Bismuth (Bi) is classic semi-metal with a low carrier density, small carrier effective masses, very long mean free path and highly anisotropic Fermi surface. In this work, we present a technique for the synthesis of bismuth nanometer-sized particles using an inverse microemulsion method. To prevent air-oxidation in the characterization stage, poly(vinylpyrrolidone) was used as protecting agent. Our characterizations reveal that single rhombohedral phase of bismuth can be obtained with ultrafine particle with ∼20 nm in size by following this synthetic route. The optical absorption spectrum of the aqueous nanoparticle colloids shows an absorption band at ∼268 nm.
Medicine and the Internet: why physicians should pay attention.

The question for physicians is no longer whether to bother to be connected to the Internet, but whether they can afford not to.
The characteristics of selective heterogeneous electron transfer for optimization of redox recycling amplification systems

Abstract Selective electron transfer reactions provide many opportunities for improving the performance of electrochemical detectors. Self-assembled alkanethiolate monolayers on gold are selective for derivatized ferrocenes (FcX) over ferrocyanide ( Fe ( CN ) 6 4 - ) . These interfaces enable redox recycling of FcX, a process that regenerates the analyte through a homogeneous electron transfer involving Fe ( CN ) 6 4 - as a strongly, but not fully blocked sacrificial electron donor. Although the anodic current for FcX is enhanced using this scheme, the level of background current can also increase due to the low-level electrolysis of Fe ( CN ) 6 4 - . This work investigates the characteristics of selectivity with respect to heterogeneous electron transfer kinetics and its impact on the limit of detection. To this end, digital simulations are used to construct a kinetic selectivity zone diagram for two redox couples. These zones demonstrate how the differences in the heterogeneous electron transfer rate constants, as expressed by a selectivity ratio, can be exploited to maximize performance. The interplay between various levels of selectivity and amplification is explored, including the effect of the relative concentrations and formal reduction potentials of the two species on the apparent selectivity. A mathematical model is developed to relate the voltammetric sweep rate, applied potential, concentration, and electrolysis rate of the sacrificial species to the signal to background ratio. These results demonstrate a direct relationship between selectivity and the improvement in the detection limit that can be achieved. Moreover, the two couples should be approximately thermoneutral, the optimal concentration of the sacrificial species is in the low millimolar range, and the applied potential should be as close to the reversible peak potential as possible. In some cases, the voltammetric sweep rate can be increased to improve selectivity and therefore sensitivity. The insights herein provide a basis for further improvements of system performance and enable facile evaluation of prospective amplification systems.
Dehydrogenase activity ofBorrelia recurrentis

Es wurde gezeigt, dassBor. recurrentis unter ublichen Bedingungen nur eine schwache Fahigkeit besitzt, verschiedene Substrate zu dehydrogenieren. In Gegenwart von reduzierenden Agentien (wie SH-Verbindungen oder Ascorbinsaure) wird diese Aktivitat hingegen bedeutend verstarkt.
SU-C-141-03: Assessing ITV and PTV Coverage for Mobile Tumors with Real-Time Fluoroscopy Imaging

Purpose: To evaluate the appropriateness of the internal target volume (ITV) and planning target volume (PTV) generated based on 4DCT simulation using real-time kV fluoroscopic imaging. Methods: 4DCT scans of a moving (3D) phantom with implanted fiducials were acquired using three-dimensional lung tumor locations derived from Cyberknife Synchrony system log files. Data from 5 patients consisting of tumor trajectories derived from the Synchrony model and from three different treatment fractions were used in this analysis. All patients in this study had a peak-to-peak respiratory amplitude between 7–15mm. The fiducials were contoured on ten phases of the 4DCT scans, and ITVs and PTVs (ITV+5mm) were created for each marker. Fluoroscopic images were acquired for all trajectories at a rate of 15Hz for 20–30 seconds in two imaging planes: anterior-posterior and lateral. The markers were tracked using the Varian Intra-fraction Motion Review (IMR) software, using a reference movie frame in which marker locations were matched against their corresponding positions on the DRR. The tracked marker positions were classified as within the ITV, between the ITV and the PTV, and outside the PTV in each frame. Results: The fiducial was detected inside of the ITV in 82.4% (71.7%) of frames in the lateral plane (AP plane), between the ITV and PTV in 17.4% (28.0%) of lateral (AP) frames, and detected outside the PTV in 0.2% (0.3%) of lateral (AP) frames. When the marker was between the ITV and the PTV, the distance from marker to ITV was >3mm in 21% (27%) in lateral (AP) plane images. Conclusion: We have developed a method to quantify the degree to which the planned ITV and PTV encompass the extent of tumor motion. The tumor was detected outside of the ITV more often in the AP-plane of imaging, and detected within the PTV in nearly all cases. Varian Medical Systems
Effects of Directed Written Disclosure on Grief and Distress Symptoms Among Bereaved Individuals

Bereavement-specific written disclosure trials have generally demonstrated null effects, but these studies have not directed the focus of writing. This randomized controlled trial compared directed writing that focused on either sense-making or benefit-finding, both associated with adjustment to loss, to traditional, non-directed emotional disclosure and a control condition. Bereaved undergraduates (n = 68) completed three 20-min writing sessions over 1 week. Intervention effects were found on prolonged grief disorder, depressive, and posttraumatic stress symptoms 3 months postintervention, and the benefit-finding condition appeared particularly efficacious. Physical health improved over time in all treatment groups. Findings suggested that directing written disclosure on topics associated with adjustment to bereavement may be useful for grieving individuals.
Development of vaccines for coccidioidomycosis

A most compelling stimulus to investigate the influence of actively-induced immunity in experimental coccidioidomycosis is found in the epidemiologic studies ofSmith (35) andSmith et al. (37–39). Their serologic and skin test surveys among residents in areas of coccidioidal endemicity directed attention to a role apparently played by actively-acquired immunity in man exposed toCoccidioides immitis. It was found that after recovery from illness, or after the acquisition of dermal sensitivity to coccidioidin in the absence of manifest illness, there was very little likelihood of a second symptomatic coccidioidal episode.Smith (personal communication) inferred from the above observation thatC. immitis was endowed with effective immunogens and speculated (37) that live or killed coccidioidal vaccines could be of profound public health significance. During the two decades following the report ofSmith et al. (39) on the use of coccidioidin, workers explored the efficacies and advantages of live and killed vaccines in experimentally produced coccidioidomycosis in animals.
Spatial patterns in the distributions of polygenic characters.

Abstract The spatial patterns in the mean and variance of a quantitative character that result from the interaction of spatially varying, optimizing selection and gene flow are considered. The model analyzed is an extension of those of Kimura (1965) and Lande (1976) for the distribution of a quantitative character maintained in a population by independent mutations. For weak selection, it is shown that there is only a small effect of gene flow on the variance of the character and that the mean value changes on a length scale that is large compared to the average dispersal distance. As in models of clines in allele frequencies, it is possible to define a “characteristic length” in terms of the average dispersal distance and strength of selection. The characteristic length is the smallest length scale environmental change to which the mean value of the character can significantly respond. It is also shown that, for weak selection, an asymmetry in dispersal can result in a significant shift in location of a cline. By considering an infinite linear cline in optimal values, it is shown that gene flow can increase the variance only when there is sufficient mixing in each generation of individuals from locations with different means. A model of selection in different niches is also considered. There is an increase in variance due to the effective weakening of the intensity of selection because of the differences in optimal values in different niches. The implications of the different models for maintenance of genetic polymorphism are discussed. Under some conditions gene flow can produce a significant increase in heterozygosity. It is also argued that spatial variation in selection on a polygenic character can be much more effective in increasing heterozygosity than temporal variation because of the potentially greater increase in phenotypic variance. The difference between some of the results for polygenic characters from those of similar models of one and two locus systems is accounted for by the fact that for normally distributed polygenic characters, changes in the variance are effectively decoupled from changes in the mean.
Health Risk Reduction in Women

This review discusses evidence-based perspectives on health risk reduction in women and the implications for gender-informed research, clinical best practices, and public policy.
Has horsepox become extinct

Mystery surrounds the extent to which horsepox virus may have contributed to the vaccinia virus used to eradicate smallpox. With few documented cases of horsepox in recent years it may never be solved, says Jose Esparza, who seeks to raise awareness of the potential historical and scientific importance of identifying new cases.
White Professors Taking Responsibility for Teaching White Students about Race, Racism, and Privilege

How does a white professor teach a course composed of predominantly white human-services students about race, racism, and privilege? What are some of the pitfalls? What works? What is challenging? Why should such a course be part of the undergraduate human services curriculum? This article investigates these questions by exploring a course taught by the author, “Exploring Race and Challenging Racism in the United States.” A variety of pedagogical tools and approaches are discussed.
Mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit I of Manduca sexta and a comparison with other invertebrate genes

A cDNA encoding mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (mt COI) from Manduca sexta (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) was cloned and sequenced. AT (adenine-thymine) content is high and codon usage is biased and likely reflects the role of mt COI in electron transport. The encoded protein is 514 amino acids long, contains seven invariant His residues observed in COIs in all organisms and would be predicted to be composed of 12 transmembrane regions.
A priori estimates, existence and non-existence for quasilinear cooperative elliptic systems

Let be a real number and let , , be a connected smooth domain. Consider the system of quasi-linear elliptic differential equations where , , and are real functions. Relations between the Liouville non-existence and a priori estimates and existence on bounded domains are studied. Under appropriate conditions, a variety of results on a priori estimates, existence and non-existence of positive solutions have been established. Bibliography: 11 titles.