cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deep convolutional neural network applied to the liver imaging reporting and data system (LI-RADS) version 2014 category classification: a pilot study

To develop a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) model to categorize multiphase CT and MRI liver observations using the liver imaging reporting and data system (LI-RADS) (version 2014). A pre-existing dataset comprising 314 hepatic observations (163 CT, 151 MRI) with corresponding diameters and LI-RADS categories (LR-1–5) assigned in consensus by two LI-RADS steering committee members was used to develop two CNNs: pre-trained network with an input of triple-phase images (training with transfer learning) and custom-made network with an input of quadruple-phase images (training from scratch). The dataset was randomly split into training, validation, and internal test sets (70:15:15 split). The overall accuracy and area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) were assessed for categorizing LR-1/2, LR-3, LR-4, and LR-5. External validation was performed for the model with the better performance on the internal test set using two external datasets (EXT-CT and EXT-MR: 68 and 44 observations, respectively). The transfer learning model outperformed the custom-made model: overall accuracy of 60.4% and AUROCs of 0.85, 0.90, 0.63, 0.82 for LR-1/2, LR-3, LR-4, LR-5, respectively. On EXT-CT, the model had an overall accuracy of 41.2% and AUROCs of 0.70, 0.66, 0.60, 0.76 for LR-1/2, LR-3, LR-4, LR-5, respectively. On EXT-MR, the model had an overall accuracy of 47.7% and AUROCs of 0.88, 0.74, 0.69, 0.79 for LR-1/2, LR-3, LR-4, LR-5, respectively. Our study shows the feasibility of CNN for assigning LI-RADS categories from a relatively small dataset but highlights the challenges of model development and validation.
In operando x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study of mechanism of atomic layer etching of cobalt

The reaction mechanism of atomic layer etching (ALE) process of Co thin films using Cl2 gas and diketone organic precursor hexafluoroacetylacetone (Hfac) has been investigated. In operando XPS featuring a reaction chamber directly connected to the XPS surface analysis chamber allows the study of the mechanism of ALE process of Co thin films with minimum surface contamination. Chlorine activated Co surfaces were investigated using in operando XPS that confirms the formation of CoCl2 and CoCl3. Hfac reacts with chlorinated Co surfaces to perform thermal etching surface chemical reactions at 140 °C. The chlorine removal rate upon exposure to Hfac follows a first order kinetics at 140 °C. The reaction mechanism elucidated by in operando XPS reveals that Hfac decomposes on chlorine activated Co surfaces suggesting a more complex reaction mechanistic pathway other than a simple adsorbate substitution reaction between chlorine and Hfac on Co surfaces. Moreover, the Co surface becomes smoother during the etching process.
Chapter 9 – Targeted Adenoviral Vectors II: Transcriptional Targeting

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses various potential strategies that have been utilized to achieve tissue/tumor-specific expression using adenoviral vectors. There is an urgent need to develop a new generation of viral vectors capable of achieving the goals of targeted delivery and controlled gene expression at the target site. The success of gene therapy and its general applicability to medicine is partially linked to the development of effective transcriptional targeting strategies. Tissue-specific promoters offer a novel approach to developing transcriptionally targeted viral vectors with enhanced potential for human gene therapy applications. Several promoters such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) promoter, ⍺-fetoprotein (AFP) promoter, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) promoter, osteocalcin (OC) promoter, MN/CA9 promoter have been used as examples in this chapter to illustrate the utility of a tissue/tumor-specific promoter.
Identification of rodent residues by DNA barcoding technology in plague areas

Objective To identify rodent residues using DNA barcoding technology in plague areas of Shaanxi and to analyze the feasibility of DNA barcoding method.Methods DNA extraction,PCR,electrophoresis and sequence determination and alignment were used to determine the cytochrome C oxidase Ⅰ (COI) gene sequence from 62 residues of 7 species identified by morphology in 8 different parts.COI gene sequence was analyzed using BLAST software of American National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) for sequence homology comparison and the phylogenetic tree was constructed by using the neighbor joining(NJ)method of COI gene sequence.Results In addition to the hair,CO I genes of the feet,the tail,the fur,the muscle,the ribs,the ear,and the eye were amplified,respectively,and the size of amplified fragment was similar to the size of the product with an expected fragment(700 bp),and the fragment was a single band.COI genes of 59 residue specimen were obtained by DNA sequencing and there were high degree of homologies between CO I gene sequences of Meriones unguiculatus,Cricetulus barabensis,Meriones meridianus,Dipus sagitta,Phodopus roborovskii,Rattus norvegicus and Allactaga sibirica and their corresponding host genes in NCBI(99.0％,98.1％,99.8％,98.9％,99.5％,99.1％,98.3％).NJ method showed that 7 NJ phylogenetic trees were constructed with COI sequence of 59 species residues.The CO I sequences of same rodent with different residues were clustered into one group.Condusion DNA barcoding technology can identify host animal residues in plague areas,and the identification results are reliable. Key words: DNA barcoding; Cytochrome C oxidase Ⅰ gene; Host residues; Identification
Pancreatico-Biliary Problems

A 64-year-old previously healthy woman presents to the emergency room with a 2-day history of increasing abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Her temperature is 38.4°C; abdominal exam discloses a tender right upper quadrant mass with local peritoneal signs present. A white blood cell count is 16,400 cells/mina, and a serum bilirubin level is 1.8 mg%. An abdominal ultrasound study discloses gallstones. Treatment should consist of: A.Medical treatment with intravenous fluids, nasogastric tube, and antibiotics only. B.Medical treatment with intravenous fluids, nasogastric tube, and antibiotics, followed by operation in 4–7 days. C.Medical treatment with intravenous fluids, nasogastric tube, and antibiotics, followed by operation in 6–8 weeks. D.Immediate cholecystostomy. E.Cholecystectomy following initial resuscitative measures.
3D-printed High-Directivity H-plane Horn Antenna with High Front-to-back Ratio Using Soft and Hard Walls

We employ hard and soft walls to improve antenna directivity and front-to-back ratio of an H-plane horn antenna. Design of this class of antenna has been limited by fabrication methods. While machining methods limit fabrication of 3D designs with complex interior shapes, SIW technology restricts the design to planar structures, foregoing benefits of 3D designs and forcing use of dielectric materials that are lossy. With the advent of 3D-printing technology for antenna and microwave devices, however, 3D hard and soft walls can be integrated in an H-plane horn antenna, improving its performance, which is not possible with conventional fabrication methods. Here, an H-plane horn antenna is designed and 3D-printed at X-band. Using hard and soft walls, directivity and front-to-back ratio are improved by 2.25 dB, and 13.7 dB, respectively, compared to an standard H-plane horn antenna, while the bandwidth covers X-band with lower return loss. The measurement results of the 3D-printed and conductive coated antenna are in good agreement with simulations.
Values, Compassion, and the Role of Active Learning in an Introduction to Sociology Class:

Prior literature suggests that self-transcendence (other-oriented) values may be a primary mechanism for moving beyond transitory feelings of empathy toward a compassionate orientation to addressin...
Using machine learning to predict antimicrobial minimum inhibitory concentrations and associated genomic features for nontyphoidalSalmonella

Nontyphoidal Salmonella species are the leading bacterial cause of food-borne disease in the United States. …
Fast and Accurate Electric Field Gradient Calculations in Molecular Solids With Density Functional Theory.

Modern approaches for calculating electric field gradient (EFF) tensors in molecular solids rely upon plane-wave calculations employing periodic boundary conditions (PBC). In practice, models employing PBCs are limited to generalized gradient approximation (GGA) density functionals. Hybrid density functionals applied in the context of gauge-including atomic orbital (GIAO) calculations have been shown to substantially improve the accuracy of predicted NMR parameters. Here we propose an efficient method that effectively combines the benefits of both periodic calculations and single-molecule techniques for predicting electric field gradient tensors in molecular solids. Periodic calculations using plane-wave basis sets were used to model the crystalline environment. We then introduce a molecular correction to the periodic result obtained from a single-molecule calculation performed with a hybrid density functional. Single-molecule calculations performed using hybrid density functionals were found to significantly improve the agreement of predicted 17O quadrupolar coupling constants (Cq ) with experiment. We demonstrate a 31% reduction in the RMS error for the predicted 17O Cq values relative to standard plane-wave methods using a carefully constructed test set comprised of 22 oxygen-containing molecular crystals. We show comparable improvements in accuracy using five different hybrid density functionals and find predicted Cq values to be relatively insensitive to the choice of basis set used in the single molecule calculation. Finally, the utility of high-accuracy 17O Cq predictions is demonstrated by examining the disordered 4-Nitrobenzaldehyde crystal structure.
Tranexamic Acid Decreases Incidence of Blood Transfusion in Simultaneous Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty

Blood management for simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients is more challenging than in unilateral arthroplasty. We examined if administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) to patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral TKA would reduce blood loss and decrease allogeneic blood transfusion requirements. A retrospective review of 103 patients, 57 in the control and 46 in the TXA group, was performed. There was higher postoperative day 1 hemoglobin in patients receiving TXA (2.95±1.33 versus 4.33±1.19, P<0.0001). There was also a decrease in the transfusion incidence with administration of TXA (17.4% versus 57.9%, P<0.0001). In conclusion, we have shown that TXA is an effective tool in reducing the transfusion rates by almost 70% in simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty.
Sulfone-carbonate ternary electrolyte with further increased capacity retention and burn resistance for high voltage lithium ion batteries

Abstract Safety and high energy density are the two focus issues for current lithium ion batteries. For safety, it has been demonstrated that sulfone electrolytes are much less flammable than the prevailing all-carbonate type, and they are also promising for high voltage batteries due to the high oxidization resistance. However, the high melting points and viscosities greatly restricted their application. Based on our previous work on use of fluidity-enhancing cosolvents to make binary sulfone-carbonate electrolytes, we report here a three-component system that is more conductive and should be even less flammable while additionally having better low temperature stability. The conductivity–viscosity relations have been determined for this electrolyte and are comparable to those of the “standard” carbonate electrolyte. The additional component also produces much improved capacity retention for the LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 cathode. As with carbonate electrolytes, increase of temperature to 55 °C leads to rapid capacity decrease during cycling, but the capacity loss is due to the salt, not the solvent. The high discharge capacity observed at 25 °C when LiBF4 replaces LiPF6, is fully retained at 55 °C.
Endoscopic stent placement for internal and external pancreatic fistulas

Abstract Stents have been effectively used for various pancreatic conditions. Pancreatic fistulas, however, have traditionally been considered a surgical disease, and if the fistula does not respond to conservative measures, an operation is usually performed. Stents were placed endoscopically in five consecutive patients who presented with pancreatic fistulas that did not respond to conservative management. Fistulas resolved in all patients after endoscopic stent placement, and after 14–30 months of follow-up, none has recurred. The cases comprise two patients with pancreaticocutaneous fistula and one each with pancreaticopleural, pancreaticoperitoneal, and pancreaticocholedochal fistula. The need for an operation can be obviated in many patients with internal and external pancreatic fistulas.
Chemical Reactivity: In Search of Better Processing of HfB2/SiC UHTC Composites

MB2/SiC and MB 2 /MC/SiC composites (M = Hf or Zr) are materials of choice for ultrahigh-temperature applications, primarily in aerospace designs. Conventionally, they are processed by hot pressing at very high temperature (1900 to 2300°C). This study continues the evaluation of "low-temperature" reactions (i.e., below 1500°C) between metallic Hf and various B- and C-containing reagents leading to the formation of hafnium boride and carbide phases. Such reactions may allow the formation of structures and coatings made of HfB 2 /SiC and HfB 2 /HfC/SiC to be processed under pressureless or low-pressure conditions at convenient processing temperatures. In an earlier study, large Hf grains were found to disappear during reactions between loosely mixed (i.e., not compacted by pressing) reactant powders, leading to the assumption that Hf melts during the exothermic reaction. Such local melting would accelerate the remaining reaction by increasing the contact interface area between the Hf and the B and C donors. Reactions between loosely spread powders of one type on top of substrates made of a material capable of forming either HfB 2 or HfC phases have been evaluated after heating at 1500°C in a conventional tube furnace under argon at atmospheric pressure. The study focused on forming a molten phase, although all the reactants studied have melting points above 2200°. The microstructure and phase evolution in the reactions between B, B 4 C, BN, and C powders with Hf thin plates, and inversely, between Hf metal powder and B, BN, B 4 C, and C surfaces at 1500°C, are evaluated and discussed.
Determination of Ephedra Alkaloids by Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry

In conjunction with an AOAC Task Group on dietary supplements, a liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method was validated for measurement of 6 major alkaloids in raw ephedra sinica herb, ephedra extracts, ephedra tablets, complex dietary supplements containing ephedra, and a high-protein drink mix containing ephedra. The amount of ephedrine-type alkaloids present was determined by LC with mass selective detection. Six replicates of each matrix were analyzed on 3 separate occasions. The presence of 6 ephedrine-type alkaloids was detected at a level >0.5 μg/g based on a 0.5 g sample. The standard curve range for this assay is from 0.02 to 1.0 μg/mL. Appropriate dilutions covered a wide range of specific alkaloid concentrations. The calibration curves for all 6 analytes had correlation coefficients >0.995.
Detection of Photospheric O VI in the Fuse Spectra of Low Metallicity White Dwarfs

The Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) has opened a new spectral window that permits the study of important ions such as OVI, PV, and SVI in FUV spectra of hot white dwarfs. The detection of the OVI 1031.912 A and 1037.613 A absorption lines in the FUSE spectra of Lan 23, GD 984, RE J1032+532, and RE J2156-543 came as a surprise, as these stars have effective temperatures ranging from 45,000 K to 60,000 K, which are on the cold side regarding the detection of the high ionization OVI ion. Even more puzzling, given the strength of the OVI lines, no OIV and OV lines are detected in the STIS high resolution spectra of RE J1032+532 and RE J2156-543, and no oxygen photoionization edges are observed in the EUVE data of GD 984, RE J1032+532 and RE J2156-543. In a combined analysis of FUSE, STIS, and EUVE data, we came to the conclusion that the oxygen abundance in the atmospheres of these stars is stratified.
High-density lipoprotein Mimetic peptide 4F acts on the intestinal microbiota and reduces systemic inflammation (LB533)

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) mimetic peptides have been studied in animals and humans for their ability to improve biomarkers of inflammation and for their ability to decrease atherosclerotic lesions or tumor burden in preclinical studies. The mechanism of action of these peptides is due to their remarkable ability to bind oxidized lipids including ox-phospholipids, oxidized metabolites of arachidonic and linoleic acids, ox-sterols and lysophosphatidic acids. Single oral doses of 4.3 and 7.14 mg/kg of the HDL mimetic peptide D-4F significantly improved the HDL-anti inflammatory index in patients with coronary heart disease compared with patients that received placebo. The intestine appears to be a major site of the action of the peptide. When Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) R-/- mice on Western Diet were treated with the peptide orally or by subcutaneous injection, the concentration of the peptide in the enterocytes was similar and plasma superoxide scavenging activity (SAA), lysophosphatidic acids, 5-Hyd...
The second-look surgical reassessment for epithelial ovarian carcinoma☆

The second-look surgical reassessment is currently being performed on most patients with epithelial ovarian carcinoma after first-line chemotherapy if they are clinically free of disease. Ninety-six patients who underwent such procedures at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the Naval Hospital, Bethesda, from January 1974 through May 1982 are reviewed. The grade of tumor, stage of disease, and amount of residual tumor remaining after initial surgery are predictive of the findings of the surgical reassessment. While a surgical reassessment is beneficial in evaluating response to therapeutic modalities under protocol investigation, its use should be individualized.
Density Functional Theory Studies of Chloroethene Adsorption on Zerovalent Iron

Adsorption of perchloroethene (PCE), trichloroethene (TCE), and cis-dichloroethene (cis-DCE) on zerovalent iron is investigated using density functional theory (DFT) to evaluate hypotheses concerning the relative reactivity of these compounds on zerovalent iron. Four different chloroethene adsorption modes on the Fe(110) surface were studied using periodic DFT and the generalized gradient approximation (GGA). Of the adsorption sites examined, the atop site, where the chloroethene C═C bond straddles a surface iron atom, was the most energetically favorable site for the adsorption of all three chloroethenes. Electronic structure and property analyses provide an indication of the extent of sp2-sp3 hybridization. The strong hybridization of the π-bonding orbital between the chloroethene C═C bond and the iron surface suggests that adsorbed chloroethenes are strongly activated on Fe(110) and are likely precursors for subsequent chloroethene dissociation on the Fe surface. When the effect of solvation is indirec...
Bus versus cellular automata, and ultimate limitations of parallel processing

After a general survey of current limitations on computation and data processing, we concentrate on that of raising speed by parallel/distributed methods. The major conceptual problem is how to make effective use of large numbers of potentially available modules or subsystems. This is accomplished in bus automata, by combining the parallel processing capacity of cellular automata with the communicative power of iterative switching arrays. Each cell controls its portion of the array, whereby cooperating cells can establish program-controlled communication-bus patterns which permit direct communication between separated groups of cells. Up to theoretically maximum useable amounts of parallel capacity can be effectively marshalled to solve many complex problems ''immediately.'' Others are sped up enormously even if immediacy is not obtained. Results to date on immediate computation, language parsing, and pattern recognition will be reviewed and open questions discussed. Applications are indicated to problems which nervous systems generally, and visual systems in particular handle rapidly and in parallel. The bus automaton is suggested for the next generation of brain and mental models.
The RML Nimbus for real-time school science/control

One of the Attainment Targets, AT 12, in the National Curriculum for science specifies that data collection and control should span key stages 2 to 4. For control this amounts to turning on a DC motor, a light bulb, buzzers, alarms and so on. These can be performed quite easily using ordinary switches to close a simple circuit, or with some dedicated electronics, to turn on after a time delay, or in response to specified external events.
Impaired insulin-stimulated glucose transport in ATM-deficient mouse skeletal muscle.

There are reports that ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) plays a role in insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation, although this is not the case in some cell types. Because Akt plays a key role in ...
Impact of curriculum reform: Evidence of change in classroom practice in the United States

Abstract The purpose of the study reported in this article is to examine the impact of curriculum on instruction. Over a three-year period, we observed 579 algebra-related lessons in grades 6–8. Approximately half the lessons were taught in schools that had adopted a Standards-based mathematics curriculum called the Connected Mathematics Program (CMP), and the remainder of the lessons were taught in schools that used more traditional curricula (non-CMP). We found many significant differences between the CMP and non-CMP lessons. The CMP lessons, emphasized the conceptual aspects of instruction to a greater extent than the non-CMP lessons and the non-CMP lessons emphasized the procedural aspects of instruction to a greater extent than the CMP lessons. About twice as many CMP lessons as non-CMP lessons were structured to use group work as a method of instruction. During lessons, non-CMP students worked individually on homework about three times as often as CMP students. When it came to text usage, CMP teachers were more likely than non-CMP teachers to work problems from the text and to follow lessons as laid out in the text. However, non-CMP students and teachers were more likely than CMP students and teachers to review examples or find formulas in the text. Surprisingly, only small proportions of the CMP lessons utilized calculators (16%) or manipulatives (11%).
Abstract 5638: New synthetic analogs of migrastatin as potent cell migration inhibitors to block overall metastasis in lung cancer and colorectal carcinoma

Tumour metastasis is the leading cause of death within cancer patients. Therefore the development of new small molecules targeting this process is crucial in the therapeutic arsenal. Migrastatin is a biologically active natural product isolated from Streptomyces that shows a high potency inhibition of tumor cell migration. Upon completing the first total synthesis of migrastatin, sets of structurally simplified synthetic analogs were developed. In the light of extensive in vitro screening leading to informative structureαactivity relationship, a new generation of analogs was launched which demonstrated higher levels of in vitro inhibitory activity, stability and synthetic accessibility. We investigated two promising ether-derivative analogs, the migrastatin core ether (ME) and the carboxymethyl-ME (CME). Both compounds exhibited high efficacy in blocking tumor cell migration in vitro with IC50 values in the micromolar range, more than two orders of magnitude less than the LD50 values. In the light of these results, in vivo efficacy of these compounds in inhibiting tumor metastasis was assessed in human tumor xenograft models established in NOD/SCID IL2R gamma null (NSG) mice. First in a human Small-Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) primary xenograft model, developed by subcutaneous injection of tumor cells, ME and CME compounds were found to be highly potent in inhibiting overall metastasis even at the lowest dosage used (degree of inhibition: 96% and 99%, for ME and CME at 10mg/kg or 12mg/kg respectively). Next, in a human Colorectal Carcinoma (CRC) xenograft model, developed by intrasplenic injection of tumor cells, ME at the highest dosage (100mg/kg) was found to significantly reduce the metastatic spread to the liver, the lungs and the GI tract (degree of inhibition: 97%, 84% and 95% respectively). CME and ME selectively inhibited tumor cell migration in vitro and in vivo but neither compound inhibited tumor proliferation at the primary site of tumor injection or at the metastatic site if tumor metastases occurred prior inhibition by drug treatment. All together these very encouraging findings suggest that these analogs have promise as potent anti-metastatic agents in epithelial tumors. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5638. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-5638
Rheological analysis of non-Newtonian blood flow using a microfluidic device☆

Abstract Blood is a non-Newtonian fluid carrying various cellular components. Rheological behavior of blood is closely correlated with the concentration and the flow condition of cellular components, primarily red blood cells (RBCs). Blood rheology is an important hematological parameter widely used for diagnosis of atherosclerosis, thrombosis and stroke. Nonetheless, there is a lack of appropriate tools dedicated to measurement of rheological behavior of blood flow under physiological flow conditions. In this work, rheological behavior of blood flow under various flow conditions is examined using a microfluidic device. Electrical behavior of blood is examined using electrical impedance spectroscopy. The results show that the flow condition of blood flowing in vessel-like microfluidic channels can be indicated by electrical impedance measurement, where the blood viscosity can be derived. This work provides a promising method for on-chip hematological assay of blood rheological behavior. The simple configuration and electrical readout of the microfluidic device also hold promise for point-of-care diagnosis and intra-operative monitoring.
A Secret Shared: Field work and the Sinister in a West African Village

In this article I discuss the ways the Manjaco of Guinea-Bissau equate the secret and the sinister and what this can tell us about a Manjaco moral sensibility. I also use Manjaco secrecy, and more specifically my attempts at understanding or interpreting Manjaco secretiveness, to suggest alternatives to the way similar data are habitually deployed in anthropology to create generic images of the moral landscape of West African villages. Among Manjaco it is not polite to pry, particularly about a person's property-what their granary contains, how many pigs or goats they have-for "a person is not to know his neighbor's secrets" (inyang te me kakut atchintul). "Secrets," or kakut, also has a sinister connotation, for kakut, if translated literally, refers to a coven of witches or the cannibalistic meal they are thought to eat. If secrecy is a form of etiquette through which Manjaco community members cooperate to keep up the facade of privacy, then the secret, it seems, hides wealth; and wealth is associated with something sinister. In associating wealth with the sinister, Manjaco participate in what amounts to an anthropological cliche: the notion that in small-scale societies of a variety of types, but all to some degree "egalitarian," wealth is evil.
Formulation and Solution Approaches to the Rail Maintenance Production Gang Scheduling Problem

The rail industry spends billions of dollars each year on maintenance and renewal of its track infrastructure. The scheduling of these maintenance projects is extremely complex, with numerous hard and soft cost trade-offs and job scheduling constraints. Scheduling requires consideration of efficient maintenance production "gang" routing around the rail network while paying close attention to any train delay such maintenance projects might cause. Despite this importance and complexity, the subject has been largely ignored in the literature. We evaluate two formulations (time-space network mixed integer program and job scheduling) and three modeling formulation and solution methodologies (integer programming, constraint programming, and genetic algorithms) for scheduling rail gangs to annual renewal projects and discuss their relative merits in terms of parsimony of model formulation, solution time, and solution quality. The purpose of this paper is to identify the most fruitful avenues for further research on this novel application.
Measurements of responsiveness in bronchoprovocation testing

The relative sensitivity and usefulness of FEV1 and SGaw measurements in determining airway responsiveness to stimuli causing changes in bronchomotor tone depend to a great extent on the population studied. Though neither test provides a great deal of information regarding the site of airway obstruction, when used together they provide a reliable and sensitive indicator of airway responsiveness.
Weight-height relationships among eight populations of West African origin: the case against constant BMI standards

OBJECTIVE: To ascertain whether constant body mass index (BMI) standards are appropriate in genetically similar populations. DESIGN: Data are taken from the International Collaborative Study of Hypertension in Blacks (ICSHIB), an observational study. SUBJECTS: Individuals of African descent who were included in ICSHIB. Subjects lived in eight different sites: Barbados; Cameroon (urban and rural); Jamaica; Manchester, UK; Maywood, IL; urban Nigeria; and St Lucia. MEASUREMENTS: Weight and height. RESULTS: Constant BMI standards effectively argue for the constancy of slope of the linear regression equations of ln(weight) on ln(height) across populations. Linear regression results indicate that the height/weight relationship implied by the use of constant BMI standards, is not found in these populations and that there is much variation across groups. CONCLUSION: The use of constant BMI standards in classifying individuals prognostically may be unwise, even in genetically similar populations.
A comparative analysis of multi-conductance neuronal models in silico

We demonstrate that a previously presented flexible silicon–neuron architecture can implement three disparate conductance-based neuron models with both fast and slow dynamics. By exploiting the real-time nature of this physical implementation, we mapped the model dynamics across a large region of parameter space. We also found that two of these dynamically different models represent points in a contiguous bursting space that spans between the two models. By systematically varying the model parameters, we also found that multiple, diverse trajectories in parameter space connected the two canonical bursting points. In addition, we found that the combination of parameter values keeps the neuron in the bursting region. These findings demonstrate the usefulness of the silicon–neuron architecture as a neural-modeling tool and illustrate its versatility as a platform for a multi-behavioral neuron that resembles its living analog.
The Measurement of Antenna Impedence Using a Receiving Antenna

Energy from a remote transmitter excites a receiving antenna that is erected vertically over a large conducting plane and base-loaded by a vertical slotted coaxial cavity of variable length. From measurements of the location and half-power width of resonance curves, the combined phase and damping factors for the two ends of the cavity are determined. By measuring these factors for the lower end of the cavity separately, those of the upper end are determined and used to calculate the impedance of the antenna. In effect, the receiving antenna is the generator driving the coaxial line, and it is the impedance of this generator that is measured. Curves of the measured impedance as a function of the electrical length of the antenna are given. Excellent agreement is obtained between impedances measured in this manner for the receiving antenna and corresponding impedances of the same antenna when base-driven through the slotted section. Both sets of measurements are in good agreement with the King-Middleton second-order theory.
Optimal sampling times in population pharmacokinetic studies

We propose a simulation-based approach to decision theoretic Bayesian optimal design. The underlying probability model is a population pharmacokinetic model which allows for correlated responses (drug concentrations) and patient-to-patient heterogeneity. We consider the problem of choosing sampling times for the anticancer agent paclitaxel, using criteria related to the total area under the curve, the time above a critical threshold and the sampling cost.
Is decreased blood plasma concentration of the complement C4B protein associated with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder?

ABSTRACT Objective The complement system is a group of blood proteins that play an important role in defending against viral and bacterial infections. The objective of this investigation was to study the plasma levels of the C4B protein in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in an attempt to associate infections with the development of some cases of this disorder. Method C4B plasma protein levels were studied using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in a group of 23 subjects meeting DSM-III-R criteria for ADHD and a similar number of age- and sex-matched controls. Also studied were parents of the ADHD subjects. Results C4B plasma levels (157.0 μg/mL) in the ADHD subjects were significantly ( p > .01) lower than those (239.3 μg/mL) in the normal age-matched subjects. Mothers of the ADHD subjects also had significantly lower C4B values compared with mothers of normal children. On the other hand, C4B values in the fathers were not significantly altered. Conclusions Decreased C4B levels in ADHD, if replicated, may represent an important marker for ADHD (or a subgroup of ADHD). It also seems plausible that C4B levels are an important etiological factor for ADHD. J. Am. Acad. Child Adolesc. Psychiatry , 1995, 34, 8:1009–1014.
Fine Motor Control is Related to Cognitive Control in Adolescents with Down Syndrome

The connection between human cognitive development and motor functioning has been systematically examined in many typical and atypical populations; however, only a few studies focus on people with Down syndrome (DS). Twelve adolescents with DS participated and their cognitive control, measured by the Corsi-Block tapping test (e.g., visual working memory), the Auditory Memory span test (e.g., verbal working memory) and the Tower of London test (e.g., cognitive planning), and motor control, measured by the Purdue Pegboard (e.g., fine motor control), were measured in this study. Results indicate that if people with DS have better performance in fine manual dexterity, they will have better performance in cognitive planning and verbal working memory abilities. The co-activation hypothesis of the prefrontal area and the cerebellum may support this positive relationship. Hence, it is suggested people with DS will obtain benefits in cognitive control by participating in further motor intervention.
OVINE FETAL SUBSTRATE UPTAKE DURING PROLONGED MATERNAL ANEMIA. † 1367

Acute studies of fetal oxygen deprivation (induced by maternal hypoxia) showed that oxidation of all exogenous substrates is insufficient to sustain fetal metabolism. Endogenous substrates must, therefore, be oxidized, and fetal growth compromised. To find if this use of endogenous substrate continues during prolonged fetal oxygen deprivation, we measured the uptake of each of the major substrates of fetal metabolism in 7 chronically prepared fetal sheep. Following control measurements, we reduced the ewes' hematocrit from 31.7±1.5 to 12.3±0.4% by isovolemic exchange transfusion, then maintained this value by repeated transfusions over one week. During acute maternal anemia, the uptake of each of the usual substrates that supply fetal oxidative metabolism and growth fell so that oxidation of all substrates was insufficient to meet fetal oxidative needs (P<0.02). During prolonged oxygen deprivation, however, fetal lactate uptake returned to normal and, consequently, exogenous substrate was more than sufficient (P<0.02) to meet reduced fetal metabolic needs, showing that fetal growth resumed, albeit at a slower rate. Table
Distressing Relationships, Anger, and Stress Amplification in a Sample of Young Adult African Americans

This study examined the impact of relationship distress in a sample of 637 African American young adults from the Family and Community Health Study. Using data from privately collected, in-depth interviews, we assessed how distress in nonmarital romantic partnerships and best friendships influence anger. While social support researchers have examined the stress buffering influence of supportive relationships, we utilized the principle of negative potency to test the stress amplification effect of relationship distress through an assessment of stressful life events and racial discrimination. Our analysis showed that distress in relationships was associated with anger, while the presence of these relationships was not. Support for the stress amplification hypothesis was found as men and women who experience intense racial discrimination coupled with a more hostile best friend had elevated levels of anger. Gender differences were also evident and discussed.
Apparent infrared (IR) Cloud Radiance Model

The infrared radiation from clouds, which results as clouds emit heat and scatter sunlight, is an important consideration in the design of high-altitude sensor systems. The radiation detected by a high-altitude sensor depends both upon the origin and the path of the rays. The purpose of this paper is to show how such variables as the observation angle, the solar zenith angle, the particle scattering angle, the wavelength band and cloud altitude are incorporated into a comprehensive background description, and to illustrate the effect of these parameters on backgrounds. The description uses previously developed models for its separate components.© (1984) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Supply chain trust: The catalyst for collaborative innovation

Abstract Trust is at the heart of a collaborative innovation capability. Without a foundation of trust, collaborative alliances can neither be built nor sustained. Using a two-stage qualitative research method, we discovered that managers understand neither the nature of trust nor the dynamics of trust building. To help alleviate these knowledge gaps, we herein develop a definition of collaborative trust, describe a trust maturity framework, and discuss the competitive power of trust. We conclude by presenting a dynamic systems model that elaborates on the process of building trust to improve collaboration, innovation, and competitive performance.
Uncertainty in risk assessment. Current efforts and future hopes.

: The incorporation of sampling variability in estimates of excess risk has been part of risk assessment practice for decades. Currently, there is a strong desire to incorporate understanding of biological mechanisms into the models used for exposure assessment and exposure-response modeling. In addition, representing population heterogeneity in the assessment of risks and the identification of sensitive subpopulations is of great concern. Finally, the communication of uncertainty and variability remains a challenge to risk assessors. Based upon the presentations of workshop faculty, a summary of current practice when addressing uncertainty together with conjectures concerning future challenges for addressing uncertainty, are presented.
Antiferromagnetism and superconductivity: Can a Hubbard U do it all by itself?

Abstract Various theoretical models have suggested superconductivity induced by an on-site Hubbard repulsion U. Results of numerical calculations on small two-dimensional systems are reviewed, which show that just a Hubbard U can induce antiferromagnetism but not superconductivity. Reasons for the failure of the theoretical models based on pure spin mechanisms are discussed. In contrast, a model with U and a nearest-neighbor repulsion V is shown to exhibit antiferromagnetism and pairing in different regimes, suggesting that this model contains the essential physics of high Tc.
Tcl/Tk-based agents for mail and news notification

SUMMARY Two agent implementations are described-ne for mail notification and one for news notification. Both agents are implemented using Tcl. This paper provides a brief history and perspective of similar agents. Included are experiences using Tcl as an agent -implementation language, and comparisons of the results to similar agents. Also described are some new techniques of interest to Tcl programmers. 0 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Delocalization of waves in random multilayer media

Doping random multilayer dielectric media with weak scatterers can cause delocalization of waves. Calculations show that at a critical frequency waves undergo a transition from evanescent decay to power law behavior. The transition occurs for arbitrarily weak scatterers, in stark contrast to previous predictions. Applications to novel filters are discussed.
Solubility of Xanthene in Organic Nonelectrolyte Solvents: Comparison of Observed Versus Predicted Values Based Upon Mobile Order Theory

Experimental solubilities are reported at 25.0°C for xanthene dissolved in 34 different organic nonelectrolyte solvents containing ether-, chloro-, hydroxy-, cyano and t -butyl-functional groups. Results of these measurements are used to test the applications and limitations of expressions derived from Mobile Order theory. For the 27 solvents for which predictions could be made computations show that Mobile order theory does provide fairly reasonable estimates of the saturation mole fraction solubilities. Average absolute deviation between predicted and observed values is 71.4%.
Human factors of flight-deck automation: report on a NASA-industry workshop

The scope of automation, the benefits of automation, and automation-induced problems were discussed at a workshop held to determine whether those functions previously performed manually on the flight deck of commercial aircraft should always be automated in view of various human factors. Issues which require research for resolution were identified. The research questions developed are presented. Previously announced in STAR as N81-16022
Teaching parallelism with river trail

Parallel hardware is today's reality and parallel programming models exist for most mainstream languages. Surprisingly JavaScript, the mother tongue of the web, is still stuck in its sequential past. JavaScript's unique programming model, the web's safety and security requirements, and the expectations of its programmers for determinism have impeded parallelization until now.Parallel JavaScript (code named River Trail) is a set of JavaScript extensions and an API that provides safe, deterministic parallelism to web applications while fitting within the event-driven, security oriented world of JavaScript applications. River Trail allows programmers to utilize available hardware parallelism on client machines - from SIMD units to multiple cores, using high-level parallel programming patterns.In this paper we describe River Trail, show how it can be used to provide a gentle introduction to parallelism using our selfcontained hands-on tutorial. At the end of the tutorial the student will have mastered the basic concepts of parallel programming and use this knowledge to build a realistic parallel HTML5 web application in River Trail.
In situ characterization of pin diode waveforms using electro‐optic sampling

In situ measurements of nonlinear waveforms produced by a PIN diode under large-signal excitation have been performed using ultrafast electro-optic (EO) sampling.The waveforms were sampled using an EO probe positioned immediately after the diode. These data validate a nonlinear model and improve representation of the waveform across the circuit. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:2653–2656, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27119
Finite elastoplastic deformation in metal forming processes with a complete formulation for sliding friction

Abstract Within the framework of a finite elastoplasticity model, a complete formulation for sliding friction is given to provide a precise treatment of the deformation occurring in metal forming processes. The sliding friction is governed by a set of interface equations that satisfy both the kinematic constraint and the equilibrium requirement. These equations are deformation sensitive and are dependent on the local configuration and its rate changes. The equations, together with the field equations of the finite elastoplasity model, are then adopted into a least squares finite element procedure for problem solving. The analysis capability accounts for both dilation and shear banding, and provides insight into the mechanics of an actual deformation process. As an illustration, upset forging of a block of mild steel is analyzed. The analysis results indicate that the frictional response at the die-workpiece interface is a bulk phenomenon. Both normal pressure and frictional traction can change drastically along the die-workpiece interface during deformation. The results also exhibit a unique feature of the analysis capability as they delineate an upper-and-lower yield phenomenon along the load-deflection curve. Inside the bulk, the development of void growth and shear bands agrees with what had been observed experimentally. These results demonstrate the efficacy of the solution method in treating metal forming problems.
The diversity of zinc-finger genes on human chromosome 19 provides an evolutionary mechanism for defense against inherited endogenous retroviruses

Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are remnants of ancient retroviral infections of the germ line that can remain capable of replication within the host genome. In the soma, DNA methylation and repressive chromatin keep the majority of this parasitic DNA transcriptionally silent. However, it is unclear how the host organism adapts to recognize and silence novel invading retroviruses that enter the germ line. Krueppel-Associated Box (KRAB)-associated protein 1 (KAP1) is a transcriptional regulatory factor that drives the epigenetic repression of many different loci in mammalian genomes. Here, we use published experimental data to provide evidence that human KAP1 is recruited to endogenous retroviral DNA by KRAB-containing zinc-finger transcription factors (TFs). Many of these zinc-finger genes exist in clusters associated with human chromosome 19. We demonstrate that these clusters are located at hotspots for copy number variation (CNV), generating a large and continuing diversity of zinc-finger TFs with new generations. These zinc-finger genes possess a wide variety of DNA binding affinities, but their role as transcriptional repressors is conserved. We also perform a computational study of the different ERVs that invaded the human genome during primate evolution. We find candidate zinc-finger repressors that arise in the genome for each ERV family that enters the genomes of primates. In particular, we show that those repressors that gained their binding affinity to retrovirus sequences at the same time as their targets invaded the human lineage are preferentially located on chromosome 19 (P-value: 3 × 10−3).