cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Present and Future of Computer Supported Idea Generation

Abstract The paper first examines why DSS designed for idea generation have not yet reached the sophistication level of “conventional” DSS, focusing on three key components, the model base, data base, and user interface. The paper then proposes three improvements for future DSS: idea generation heuristics, commonsense reasoning mechanisms, and multi-media user interfaces.
Multiattribute Warranty Policies

Warranties have been important elements in business planning and decision making for manufacturers of products and producers of services, and this will continue to be the case in years to come. In this article, we introduce various types of single-attribute and multiattribute warranty policies, and review different modeling approaches with an emphasis on two-attribute warranty plans. Some suggestions for future research are also provided. Keywords: product warranty; reliability; two-attribute warranty; warranty models
Lithics: Lithic analysis and prehistoric sedentism

The formal design of stone tools is closely linked to the various tasks or functions for which tools are employed. The tasks may relate to the production and maintenance of houses, tools, and clothing, or food procurement, such as hunting and butchering. Traditionally archaeologists have focused upon these task-oriented activities when considering tool design constraints. However, the design of stone tools can be related to constraints that are in addition to specific-task-related activities and functions. It has been shown that stone tool design and production can be affected by the abundance, quality, and shape of raw materials (Andrefsky 1994b, 1995; Ashton and White 2003; Bamforth 1986; Flenniken 1981; Flenniken and Wilke 1989; Lothrop 1989), by the relative mobility and sedentism of the people using the stone tools (Andrefsky 1991; Bamforth 1990, 1991; Blades 2001; Kelly 1988; Parry and Kelly 1987; Shackley 1990; Torrence 1983, 1989), and by artifact uselife (Andrefsky 1997b; Goodyear 1974; Jelinek 1976; Marks 1988; Rolland and Dibble 1990). Still other constraints on tool design include stylistic factors (Close 1989; Sackett 1982, 1986; Wobst 1977), risk minimizing (Bleed 1986; Cashdan 1985; Wiessner 1982), and time optimization (Boydston 1989; Rasic and Andrefsky 2001; Tomka 2001; Torrence 1983). The previous chapter discussed the relationship between artifact diversity and site functions within a context of prehistoric mobility. Related to the concept of prehistoric mobility is that of sedentism. This chapter explores the relationship between prehistoric sedentism and lithic artifact analysis.
An automatic text-independent speaker recognition system

A speaker recognition system has been developed which recognizes different voices in a context-free speaking environment. It is composed of an ART II neural network coupled to a pair of fuzzy expert systems which classify voices hierarchically from signal features and clusters. It has been laboratory tested using digitized voices with performance of over 60% correct for about 4 s of voiced speech. >
Postsynaptic spike firing reduces synaptic GABAA responses in hippocampal pyramidal cells

Using intracellular recording techniques in CA1 cells in the hippocampal slice, we studied the responses of cells to synaptically released and iontophoretically applied GABA. With high-resistance, Cl(- )-filled electrodes, which inverted and enlarged the responses at normal resting potentials, we examined spontaneous GABA-mediated IPSPs. Usually we recorded the spontaneous events in the presence of carbachol (10–25 microM), which significantly increased IPSP frequency and blocked potentially confounding K+ conductances. Following a train of action potentials, spontaneous IPSPs were transiently suppressed. This suppression could not be accounted for by membrane conductance changes following the train or activation of a recurrent circuit. Whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings in the slice indicated that the amplitudes of the spontaneous GABAA inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) were also diminished following the action potential train. In some cases BAY K 8644, a Ca2+ channel agonist, enhanced the suppression of IPSPs, while buffering changes in [Ca2+]i with EGTA or BAPTA prevented it. The monosynaptically evoked IPSC in the presence of 6-cyano-7- nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX) and dl-2-amino-5-phosphonovaleric acid (APN) was also diminished following a train of action potentials; however, iontophoretically applied GABA responses did not change significantly. These studies suggest that localized physiological changes in postsynaptic [Ca2+]i potently modulate synaptic GABAA inputs and that this modulation may be an important regulatory mechanism in mammalian brain.
The Role of Social Work in Black Liberation

charge, in essence, is that social work is an oppressive profession.1 Criticism of social work for failure to deliver on its claim of solutions to social problems is a persistent reality. Among the critics are the poor, the black, the alienated, the oppressed and members of the profession who perceive social workers as advocates of the status quo, perpetuators of welfare colonialism and as managers of social services and programs designed to serve the pacification and control functions of the larger social welfare system. This indictment generates the questions: Does social work as a profession provide adequate concepts for understanding the problems and social realities of oppressed communities? Are social services and programs in oppressed communities designed to meet their survival needs and liberation goals? If not, in what direction ought the profession move if it is to become a liberating force in oppressed communities? This essay, in response to these questions, offers a model for social work practice in the black community which proceeds from an expanded definition of the goals of the profession. Neo-colonialism, survival and liberation are the principal conceptual components. Neo-colonialism is used for analysis and understanding of social, economic and political realities of the oppressed community. Survival provides a way of perceiving needs and a framework for the design and provision of social services. Liberation is viewed as a phase in a larger movement for social and economic justice which requires a diverse range of strategies and practitioner roles directed toward the ultimate goal of "being." The "black community" refers to all black Americans. Notions of stratification are inconsistent with the basic communal value
Nonlinear Evolution of Frontal Waves.

Abstract A two-layer, shallow-water frontal model on an f-plane is used to study the nonlinear evolution of frontal waves. The fluid is confined to a periodic channel with parallel vertical walls. It is found that, at an advanced stage in the evolution of frontal waves, small-scale disturbances develop along the cold front while the warm front evolves in a smooth fashion. It is shown that the motion field associated with the primary low advects kinetic energy and low potential vorticity into the cold-frontal region. That kinetic energy is transferred by barotropic processes to the secondary disturbances at locations along the cold front where advection of low potential vorticity results in an enhancement of the horizontal shears. On the other hand, kinetic energy is removed from the warm-frontal region, which remains undisturbed.
Cell death by apoptosis in epidermal biology

Abstract Homeostasis in continually renewing tissues is maintained by a tightly regulated balance between cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and cell death. Until recently, proliferation was thought to be the primary point of control in the regulation of normal tissue kinetic homeostasis and as such has been the major focus of both understanding the etiology of disease and developing therapeutic strategies. Now, physiologic cell death, known as apoptosis (â-pop-to'sis, â-po-to′sis [Thomas CL (ed.): Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary. F.A. Davis, Co., Philadelphia, 1989)] has gained scientific recognition as an active regulatory mechanism, complementary, but functionally opposite, to proliferation with important roles in shaping and maintaining tissue size and prevention of disease. In this review we will describe the concept of apoptosis and discuss possible molecular mechanisms of its regulation that may have implications for skin biology.
ONE-DIMENSIONAL NONLINEAR INVERSE HEAT CONDUCTION TECHNIQUE

The one-dimensional nonlinear problem of heat conduction is considered. A noniterative space-marching finite-difference algorithm is developed to estimate the surface temperature and heat flux from temperature measurements at subsurface locations. The trade-off between resolution and variance of the estimates of the surface conditions is discussed quantitatively. The inverse algorithm is stabilized through the use of digital filters applied recursively. The effect of the filters on the resolution and variance of the surface estimates is quantified. Results are presented which indicate that the technique is capable of handling noisy measurement data.
Neurofilament function and dysfunction: involvement in axonal growth and neuronal disease

Neurofilaments make up the major intermediate filament system in mature neurons. Recent studies demonstrate that neurofilaments in vivo are obligate heteropolymers and are required for proper radial growth of axons. Furthermore, forced over-expression of neurofilament subunits in transgenic mice shows that abnormal accumulation and assembly of neurofilaments, similar to that commonly found in human motor neuron disease can directly cause motor neuron dysfunction.
Modification of radiation therapy following operative evaluation of patients with cervical carcinoma.

Abstract Twelve of thirty-nine patients with cervical cancer who underwent bilateral pelvic and periaortic lymphadenectomy through an extraperitoneal approach had lymph node metastases. Four patients had metastases to pelvic lymph nodes only and eight had metastases to common iliac or periaortic lymph nodes in addition to other pelvic lymph nodes. The operative findings permitted the modification of radiation therapy on the basis of known extent of tumor. All patients with common iliac or periaortic lymph node metastases had ports of external therapy extended to the level of the diaphragm and had more emphasis placed on external radiation therapy and less on intracavitary therapy. The sequence of operation through an extraperitoneal approach followed by conventional or extended radiation therapy was tolerated with minimal morbidity and no mortality.
A Stochastic Dominance Comparison of Reduced Tillage Systems in Corn and Soybean Production under Risk

Returns per acre of reduced tillage systems including conventional, chisel, till-plant, and no-till are examined under general assumptions concerning risk. These returns are calculated using com and soybean experimental plot yields. Stochastic dominance rankings indicate an advantage (second degree) of conventional and chisel over no-till when soil loss costs are not assigned. Annual per acre soil loss costs of $5–15 shift rankings towards the reduced tillage systems. A $10 per acre cost results from corn yield losses of 0.06% per year (170 bushel per acre yield base) over fifty years with a 5% real discount rate.
A DETECTOR FOR LOW-ENERGY (FEW HUNDRED EV-20 KEV) X-RAYS IN THE PRESENCE OF A HIGH BACKGROUND OF HIGH-ENERGY X-RAYS

Abstract The Vanderbilt University FEL Center project for the production of monochromatic X-rays uses Compton backscattering of the infrared light from the FEL by the 40 MeV electron LINAC to produce nearly monochromatic pulses of X-rays in the 10–20 keV range. Detecting these requires the ability to distinguish the small flux of 15 keV X-rays produced by the backscattering from the large flux of X-rays from low energy to many MeV resulting from scattered electrons from the beam. We have constructed a detector using two thin silicon surface–barrier detectors as calorimeters, separated by an aluminum absorber, so that the front detector sees both high- and low-energy X-rays, and the back one sees only high-energy X-rays. Using a carefully balanced differential amplifer chain, we can detect a soft X-ray flux which is only about 5% of the broadband flux observed by our detector.
Manometric Calibration for Insect Respiration

Certain difficulties are encountered when using the Warburg manometric apparatus in studies on the metabolism of living insects. The normal use of the manometers and reaction vessel is with tissue homogenates of known volume. The constant volume aspect of the standard procedure is often compromised by the necessity of estimating the volume of the insects being tested. Volume estimates based on weight or liquid displacement are often subject to rather large errors.
The Relationship between Egg Size and Chick Size in the Laughing Gull and Japanese Quail

Variation in the water, lipid, and nonlipid dry matter of eggs and newly hatched chicks of the Laughing Gull and Japanese Quail was related to variation in the size of the egg. Egg contents of the two species were, on average, very similar. Yolk size varied in direct proportion to egg size, but in the quail large eggs contained disproportionately low levels of lipid and high levels of nonlipid dry matter. The composition of the newly hatched gull chick closely resembled that of the newly hatched quail. With increasing egg size, and thus chick size, water level increased and lipid level decreased in the gull chick, whereas lipid level increased in the quail chick. Among body organs, the integument of the gull exhibited a disproportionate increase with an increase in egg size, owing mostly to the accumulation of water; in the quail, the legs were the only organs to increase out of proportion to increase in body size. Disproportionate decreases in body proportion with increasing chick size appeared mostly in the head, stomach, and intestine components of both species. Variation in proportions of lipid and water in the chick related to egg size is discussed in terms of (1) ecological requirements of newly hatched chicks, (2) sibling competition within broods, and (3) stage of development of the young at hatching.
Direct sub-100-nm patterning of an organic low-k dielectric for electrical and optical interconnects

Low-k dielectric materials compatible with copper interconnect fabrication processes extending to the sub-50-nm technology nodes are desired for high speed integrated circuit (IC) fabrication. We demonstrate that bisbenzocyclobutene (BCB), an organic low-k dielectric material, can be patterned with sub-100-nm resolution using electron beam lithography, providing new avenues for nanoscale electrical and optical interconnect fabrication.
Applications of Natural Language Processing in Biodiversity Science

Centuries of biological knowledge are contained in the massive body of scientific literature, written for human-readability but too big for any one person to consume. Large-scale mining of information from the literature is necessary if biology is to transform into a data-driven science. A computer can handle the volume but cannot make sense of the language. This paper reviews and discusses the use of natural language processing (NLP) and machine-learning algorithms to extract information from systematic literature. NLP algorithms have been used for decades, but require special development for application in the biological realm due to the special nature of the language. Many tools exist for biological information extraction (cellular processes, taxonomic names, and morphological characters), but none have been applied life wide and most still require testing and development. Progress has been made in developing algorithms for automated annotation of taxonomic text, identification of taxonomic names in text, and extraction of morphological character information from taxonomic descriptions. This manuscript will briefly discuss the key steps in applying information extraction tools to enhance biodiversity science.
Effect of Dietary Lipid Sources on Production of Leukotriene B by Head Kidney of Channel Catfish Held at Different Water Temperatures

Abstract Separate and combined effects of dietary fatty acids and water temperature on the production of leukotriene B (LTB) by the head kidney of channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus were investigated. Fish were fed semipurified diets containing 7% lipid as beef tallow, corn oil, linseed oil, menhaden oil, or a mixture (1:1:1) of menhaden oil, beef tallow, and corn oil. At 28°C, fish fed corn oil produced the greatest amount of LTB, and fish fed beef tallow produced the least. At 17°C, production of LTB by fish fed the beef tallow diet was again lowest; production of LTB by fish fed the corn oil diet was highest but was not significantly different from that obtained with the mixed-oil or menhaden oil diet. Production of LTB for the other diets was intermediate. This is the first report that the head kidney of channel catfish produces LTB; this production was affected by dietary lipid sources but not by the two water temperatures tested. Production of LTB was not related to weight gain. Moreover, the patte...
Novel therapies for rheumatoid arthritis

Recent years have witnessed significant advancements in the therapeutic approach to rheumatoid arthritis. The introduction of biologic agents, in particular inhibitors of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), has ushered a new era in which the goal of therapy has become achieving very low levels of disease activity. Success achieved with the TNF inhibitors has reinvigorated research into targeting other componenets of the dysregulated immune system in RA. A number of approaches, targeting various cytokines, other inflammatory mediators, and populations of immunocompetent cells, seem promising.
Successful brachytherapy for medulloepithelioma

Abstract Medulloepithelioma is a congenital neuroepithelial tumor of the eye. Although this tumor is generally benign, it may contain substantial numbers of undifferentiated cells with high mitotic rates that can cause an increase in tumor size and may affect lens clarity and vision. In such cases, treatment of the medulloepithelioma may be warranted. Medulloepitheliomas can be confused with other malignant tumors of the eye, such as retinoblastoma.
Management of dyslipidemia in patients with complicated metabolic syndrome

As the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome increases, 2 comorbid conditions—hepatic steatosis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) lipodystrophy—have become difficult clinical challenges. Dyslipidemia in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis may improve with use of statins, fibrates, niacin, and thiazolidinediones, but the data are presently very limited. HIV lipodystrophy is associated with a marked risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), and more aggressive management of the dyslipidemia is likely necessary to improve the prognosis.
Mathematical Models of the Common-Source and Common-Gate Amplifiers Using a Metal-Ferroelectric-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor

Mathematical models of the common-source and common-gate amplifiers using metal-ferroelectric- semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs) are developed in this paper. The models are compared against data collected with MOSFETs of varying channel lengths and widths, and circuit parameters such as biasing conditions are varied as well. Considerations are made for the capacitance formed by the ferroelectric layer present between the gate and substrate of the transistors. Comparisons between the modeled and measured data are presented in depth as well as differences and advantages as compared to the performance of each circuit using a MOSFET.
Radar Image Registration And Rectification

Two techniques for radar image registration and rectification are presented. In the registration method, a general 2-D polynomial transform is defined to accomplish the geometric mapping from one image into the other. The degree and coefficients of the polynomial are obtained using an a priori found tiepoint data set. In the second part of the paper, a rectification procedure is developed that models the distortion present in the radar image in terms of the radar sensor's platform parameters and the topographic variations of the imaged scene. This model, the ephemeris data and the digital topographic data are then used in rectifying the radar image. The two techniques are then used in registering and rectifying two examples of radar imagery. Each method is discussed as to its benefits, shortcomings and registration accuracy.
Hyaluronan increases RANKL expression in bone marrow stromal cells through CD44.

HA activates CD44 to stimulate RANKL expression in bone marrow stromal cells. HA stimulation of RANKL is blocked by anti-CD44 antibody and is absent in cells from CD44−/− mice. CD44−/− mice exhibit thicker cortical bone and a smaller medullary cavity, but indices of bone resorption are not affected. Introduction: Hyaluronan (HA), the major nonprotein glycosaminoglycan component of the extracellular matrix in mammalian bone marrow, functions in part through its receptor, CD44, to stimulate a series of intracellular signaling events that lead to cell migration, adhesion, and activation. To determine whether HA activation of CD44 influences RANKL and osteoprotegerin (OPG) expression and whether CD44 is functionally important in bone metabolism, we studied whole bone and bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) from wildtype and CD44−/− mice. Materials and Methods: BMSCs from wildtype and CD44−/− mice at 7 weeks of age were cultured and treated with either HA or anti-CD44 antibody. The levels of mRNA of RANKL, OPG, CD44, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OC), and αI collagen (COLL) were determined by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Levels of RANKL and CD44 protein were measured by immunoblotting, and expression of CD44 in whole bone was determined by immunohistochemical staining. Double immunofluorescence staining and confocal microscopy were used to study colocalization of Cbfa1, CD44, and HA. Tibias were imaged using μCT, and cancellous and cortical parameters were measured. Osteoblast and osteoclast surface in the distal femoral metaphysis and osteoclast on the endocortical surface at the tibio-fibular junction were measured using quantitative histomorphometry. Differences were analyzed using ANOVA and the Newman-Keuls test. Results: Addition of HA dose-dependently increased RANKL mRNA (3.6-fold) and protein (3-fold) levels in BMSCs. Stimulation of RANKL by HA could be blocked with anti-CD44 antibody. Treatment of cells with HA or anti-CD44 antibody had no significant effect on OPG mRNA levels. Both CD44 and HA localized on the plasma membrane in cells expressing Cbfa1. HA localization on the cell membrane disappeared when cells were preincubated with anti-CD44 antibody. Compared with control mice, cortical bone of CD44−/− was thicker, and medullary area was smaller at both 7 and 17 weeks, but at 7 weeks, indices of bone resorption were normal. At 17 weeks of age, tibial mass of CD44−/− mice was higher than control mice. CD44−/− animals expressed less RANKL in whole bone (−30%) and in BMSCs (−50%). Cells from CD44−/− animals failed to respond to either HA or CD44 antibody treatment. Conclusions: HA can increase RANKL expression in BMSCs through CD44.
H-reflex changes under spinal loading and unloading conditions in normal subjects.

Abstract Objective : The soleus H- reflex is usually tested clinically in patients lying prone, with the H-latency always the criterion of choice for detecting abnormality. However, stresses on the spine vary during lying, standing, loading (weight lifting) and unloading. So the objective of this study was to measure changes in the H-reflex under 4 different loading conditions and to investigate whether mechanical loading of the spine would affect the H-reflex parameters. Methods: Twenty healthy volunteers (22–46 years) with no history of significant low back pain or radiculopathy participated in the study. A Cadwell Excel electromyography unit was used to elicit and record the soleus H-reflex. The tibial nerve was stimulated at the popliteal fossa using 1 ms pulses at 0.2 pps of H-max. Each subject was tested under 4 different conditions: prone lying, free standing, standing while lifting 20% of his or her body weight, and standing while unloaded by 25% of his/or her body weight by a ZUNI II unloading system. For each subject, the peak-to-peak amplitudes of the maximum obtained H- reflex and the onset latencies of 8 separate traces were averaged for both lower extremities. Two-factor, repeated-measures ANOVAs were used to test the effect of the condition and side on the H-reflex amplitude and latency with (∝=0.025). Results : The H-reflex was inhibited during standing, loading and unloading as compared with prone lying. The H-reflex was recovered during loading as compared with during standing. There were no significant changes in the H-reflex latency under the 4 different conditions. Both lower extremities showed similar pattern of changes in the H-reflexes. Conclusions : These results imply a significant interplay between peripheral and central mechanisms and their effects on the spinal motoneurons. This in turn suggests that testing of the H-reflex amplitude and latency under functional conditions, such as standing may be useful in detecting subtle changes in root impingement.
Computed NMR shielding increments over benzo-analogs of unsaturated five-membered ring heterocyclic compounds as a measure of aromaticity.

Abstract The GIAO-HF method in Gaussian 03 was used to calculate the isotropic shielding value of the proximal hydrogen of a diatomic hydrogen probe moved in a square grid 2.5 A above the plane of 15 benzo-fused analogs of conjugated five-membered ring heterocyclic compounds: pyrrole, furan, thiophene, and phosphole and their 2- and 3-nitrogen analogs. Subtraction of the calculated isotropic shielding value of diatomic hydrogen from each of these isotropic shielding values gave the shielding increment (Δσ) for each probe position. Plotting this value against Cartesian coordinates of the probe position allowed determination of the computed through-space shielding increment surfaces for these compounds. Substantial shielding was observed above the center of each ring, as expected for aromatic compounds. The magnitude of the shielding increment 2.5 A above the heterocyclic ring center correlated reasonably well with the only other published method of assessing aromaticity of these systems ASE (aromatic stabilization energy) and with our calculated NICS (nucleus-independent chemical shift) values, another magnetic criterion. The magnitude of the shielding increment measured over the benzene ring midpoint did not correlate well with other measures of aromaticity, however.
Autoreactive kidney-infiltrating T-cell clones in murine lupus nephritis

Autoreactive kidney-infiltrating T-cell clones in murine lupus nephritis. T-cells have been implicated in autoimmune renal injury. To examine the role of T-cells in lupus nephritis we propagated T-cell clones from the cortical interstitium of MRL/ lpr mice. All isolated kidney-infiltrating (KI) T-cell clones [6] express surface markers identical to the T-cells regulated by the lpr gene (Thy 1.2+, TCR α/β+, Lyt-2-, L3T4-, B220+). Although KI T-cell clones have the same surface markers as lymph node-infiltrating (LNI) T-cells, they differ functionally. KI T-cells, but not LNI T-cells, are autoreactive and kidney-specific, exclusively proliferating to renal tubular epithelial (TEC) and mesangial cells. In addition, unlike LNI T-cell supernatants (SN), KI T-cell clones SN induce class II and ICAM-1 on cultured TEC. When KI T-cell clones are injected under the renal capsule, class II is increased on TEC. All clones transcribe mRNA for cytokines capable of inducing class II and ICAM-1 (IL-4, TNF-α, IFN-γ). Anti-IFN-γ mAb prevents the induction of class II and ICAM-1 on cultured TEC. Since class II and ICAM-1 expression on TEC precedes renal injury, the ability to propagate autoreactive, kidney-specific T-cell clones that induce these molecules provides evidence for their role in initiating renal injury in MRL/ lpr mice.
Not in the Heavens: The Premodern Roots of Jewish Secularism

The relationship between religion and secularism has become a central question in the study of religion. But secularism is just as diverse as religion. This article treats Jewish secularism as a phenomenon with its own unique characteristics derived in part from the religious tradition against which it revolted. Within premodern Judaism – the Bible, Talmud, and medieval philosophy – one finds precursors to modern secular ideas. The article demonstrates how the cardinal categories of Judaism invented by modern religious thinkers – God, Torah, and Israel – were adopted by secular Jews, such as Baruch Spinoza, emptied of traditional meaning and turned into a ‘secular theology’.
Progress towards genetic and pharmacological therapies for keratin genodermatoses: current perspective and future promise

Hereditary keratin disorders of the skin and its appendages comprise a large group of clinically heterogeneous disfiguring blistering and ichthyotic diseases, primarily characterized by the loss of tissue integrity, blistering and hyperkeratosis in severely affected tissues. Pathogenic mutations in keratins cause these afflictions. Typically, these mutations in concert with characteristic features have formed the basis for improved disease diagnosis, prognosis and most recently therapy development. Examples include epidermolysis bullosa simplex, keratinopathic ichthyosis, pachyonychia congenita and several other tissue-specific hereditary keratinopathies. Understanding the molecular and genetic events underlying skin dysfunction has initiated alternative treatment approaches that may provide novel therapeutic opportunities for affected patients. Animal and in vitro disease modelling studies have shed more light on molecular pathogenesis, further defining the role of keratins in disease processes and promoting the translational development of new gene and pharmacological therapeutic strategies. Given that the molecular basis for these monogenic disorders is well established, gene therapy and drug discovery targeting pharmacological compounds with the ability to reinforce the compromised cytoskeleton may lead to promising new therapeutic strategies for treating hereditary keratinopathies. In this review, we will summarize and discuss recent advances in the preclinical and clinical modelling and development of gene, natural product, pharmacological and protein-based therapies for these disorders, highlighting the feasibility of new approaches for translational clinical therapy.
Electron-impact dissociation of the methane molecule into neutral fragments

The three most important electron-impact processes dissociating ${\mathrm{CH}}_{4}$ molecule into neutral fragments are $e+{\mathrm{CH}}_{4}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\mathrm{CH}}_{3}+\ensuremath{\cdots}$, $e+{\mathrm{CH}}_{4}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\mathrm{CH}}_{2}+\ensuremath{\cdots}$, and $e+{\mathrm{CH}}_{4}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathrm{CH}+\ensuremath{\cdots}$. Neither experimental nor theoretical cross sections for the processes in a broad range of energy are available, except for the first process for which reliable measured cross sections for energies up to $500\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{eV}$ are available. Only two measured values (at a single impact energy) of the cross section for the second process are available, and only two measured values (also at a single energy) of the cross section for the third process are available in the literature. Therefore, we derive in this work analytical dissociation cross sections for the second and the third processes mentioned above in the energy range up to $500\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{eV}$. At higher (but still nonrelativistic) energies, we calculate the parameters of the Bethe-Born cross section for the second and the third processes.
“I’ll die with the hammer in my hand”: John Henryism as a predictor of happiness

This paper examines the association between John Henryism - a behavioral predisposition to cope actively with psychosocial environmental stressors - and happiness. On the basis of previous research on aspiration and goal regulation, we predicted that John Henryism would be negatively associated with happiness when controlling for demographic factors and attainment in various domains of life. We tested the prediction in a sample of hypertensive participants (n=758) drawn from an inner-city, mainly African-American, safety-net hospital in Jefferson County, Alabama. Bivariate analysis revealed no association between John Henryism and attainment in six domains of life: marriage, children, education, employment, income, and health. However, a significant negative association between John Henryism and happiness was found both in bivariate analysis (Spearman's ρ= -0.335; p<.001) and when controlling for demographic factors and attainment using ordinal logistic regression analysis. There was a significant interaction effect between John Henryism and gender: being male was positively associated with happiness among participants with low John Henryism, but negatively associated with happiness among participants with high John Henryism. While further study would be required in order to establish the extent to which these findings can be generalized as well as their causal underpinnings, the results indicate that John Henryism is negatively associated with happiness, especially among men, and underscore the limitations of using self-reported measures of happiness as proxies for well-being for purposes of public policy.
Dislocation analysis of deformed AlPdMn quasicrystals

Abstract Dislocation analysis was performed on polygrained Al 70 Pd 21.5 Mn 8.5 icosahedral quasicrystals deformed at high temperature. Using contrast analysis, the Burgers vector was determined to be parallel to a twofold direction, while the line direction was found to be parallel to a different twofold direction. The angle between B and U was found to be 32 ° so that the dislocation has mixed character. The screw component of the dislocation was found to be parallel to a twofold direction, while the edge component was found to be parallel to a pseudo twofold direction. Considering the characteristics of the dislocation, slip could occur on fivefold planes, resulting in 30 slip systems.
Pulmonary metastases of endometrial carcinoma.

Abstract From 1960 to 1976, 33 of 1434 patients (2.3%) with endometrial carcinoma developed pulmonary metastases. Metastases were confined to the lungs in only eight patients and four patients died of pulmonary insufficiency in contrast to 22 patients who died as a result of their extrapulmonary tumor. The lymph nodes, vagina, skeleton, and abdominal viscera were the most frequent sites of coexisting disease. Pulmonary metastases of endometrial carcinoma occurred in elderly patients with tumors of high stage and grade or extensive myometrial penetration. The interval between diagnosis of the primary tumor and the appearance of metastases was significantly longer in the 24% of patients who responded to progestins. The grade of the primary tumor and the number and location of the pulmonary lesions were unrelated to their responsiveness. Patients with metastases confined to the lungs had a 60% response rate, while those with additional extrapulmonary metastases had a 15% response.
MAGIC-LC/FT-IR: A viable interface for HPLC and FT-IR spectrometry☆

Abstract The interfacing of separation methods with selective detectors has been a long sought after goal. In some instances, such as gas chromatography interfaced with spectrometric methods such as mass spectrometry or Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, considerable success has been achieved. Interfaces with liquid chromatography have been far less successful due to the difficulty in eliminating the mobile phase. In the infrared, liquid mobile phases must be eliminated as they are opaque at all wavelengths at even short path lengths. The solutes are generally in such low concentration that long path lengths must be used to record their spectra in the presence of the solvent. Nonetheless, the solvent opacity precludes this option. Solvent elimination has been possible for high volatility nonpolar mobile phases, yet the majority of liquid chromatography is accomplished with polar (reverse phase) solvents. An interface has been developed that can accommodate both normal and reverse phase solvent systems, as well as gradient elution systems. This interface is the monodisperse aerosol generation interface for combining liquid chromatography with Fourier transform infrared spectrometry.
Synthesis of the Tris(trimethylphosphine)tetrahydrotriboron(1+) Cation.

Details of the reaction of B2H4[P(CH3)3]2 with the C(C6H5)3+ cation for the synthesis of the B3H4[P(CH3)3]3+ cation are described. The reaction was thought to proceed through the formation of the “B2H3P[(CH3)3]2+” cation followed by the cluster expansion reaction with B2H4[P(CH3)3]2. The triborane complex cation was fluxional with respect to the migration of the four borane hydrogen atoms. The 11B, 31P, and 1H NMR chemical shifts were determined at low and high temperatures. The 11B, 31P, and 19F NMR data for BF3P(CH3)3, a byproduct in the above reaction, were also reported.
Skin deep: Folk tales, face lifts, and the silence of the lambs

(1994). Skin deep: Folk tales, face lifts, and the silence of the lambs. Lit: Literature Interpretation Theory: Vol. 5, Horror, pp. 19-27.
Geographic Variation and Sexual Dimorphism in Ord's Kangaroo Rat, Dipodomys ordii

Geographic variation was assessed in 4,335 male and 3,518 female specimens of Ord's kangaroo rat ( Dipodomys ordii ) from throughout the range of the species. A total of 16 skull measurements was analyzed and, of these, 11 showed significant sexual dimorphism. Greatest skull length, bullar-premaxillary length, and basal length showed the greatest relative differences between sexes. All characters showed significant interlocality variation in both sexes. Relative to the degree of intralocality variability, the third molar width showed the least interlocality variation; the three characters mentioned above plus greatest skull depth and upper diastemal length were the most variable between localities within each sex. Localities were projected onto three principal components based on correlations of characters. Component I (a size factor) showed that for both sexes the large individuals occur east of the western Cordillera, and smaller animals are found to the west in the United States and Mexico. Populations of the eastern and western parts of the range are linked by those that are morphologically intermediate. At least two complexes are formed in the western part of the range. Specimens from Padre and Mustang islands are separated from the others by component II, which has high loadings for greatest skull width, least interorbital width, least supraoccipital width, and greatest interparietal width. The third component has its highest correlation with third molar width, and the southernmost localities are large for this character. Patterns of interlocality heterogeneity are discussed in terms of sympatry with other Dipodomys species.
Correlation of a discrete friction (Iwan) element and continuum approaches to predict interface sliding behavior

Abstract This paper makes quantitative comparisons between three types of models for predicting frictional interface behavior: (i) Iwan-type friction elements that describe contact in terms of discrete contact points and spring elements, (ii) analytical models based on continuum elasticity and Coulomb friction, and (iii) finite element models which incorporate a simple interface constitutive description. A simplified “fiber pullout” geometry is considered which consists of a clamped rectangular bar being pulled between friction grips. The analysis illustrates that interface slip and load transfer behavior is well described by both analytical shear models and bilinear Iwan-type elements which differentiate elastic and friction effects. Two key contribution of this work are the identification of explicit connections between discrete friction parameters (i.e. spring stiffnesses) and continuum elasticity properties, and a straightforward calibration procedure to correlate lower order models with continuum results. This represents an important step toward lower order frictional interface models that can be used to efficiently yet accurately simulate dynamic stick-slip behavior in dynamically loaded contacts.
Size Structure and Catch Rates of White Crappie, Black Crappie, and Bluegill in Trap Nets with 13-mm and 16-mm Mesh

Abstract We compared catch rates and size structure of white crappie Pomoxis annularis, black crappie P. nigromaculatus, and bluegill Lepomis macrochirus captured in trap nets with mesh sizes of 13 and 16 mm. We found that trap nets with 13-mm mesh caught significantly more white crappies less than 130 mm total length (TL) and bluegills less than 80 mm TL than did the 16-mm mesh; catch rates of black crappies less than 130 mm TL were similar for both meshes. The 16-mm mesh caught significantly more black crappies 130 mm or longer and bluegills 80 mm or longer; catch rates of white crappies 130 mm or longer were similar for both meshes. Proportional stock density was similar between mesh sizes, as was the relative stock density of preferred-length fish, except for bluegills.
Managing test coverage uncertainty due to thermal noise in nano-CMOS: A case-study on an SRAM array

From system-on-a-chip to high performance processors, SRAM is a critical component. In highly scaled CMOS devices, process variation is a major concern as it affects SRAM stability which often sets the floor on supply voltage and the ceiling on operating temperature of a semiconductor chip. Consequently, low-voltage and high temperature testing are often part of manufacturing test flow. In this paper, we show that for marginal cells, thermal noise is a major corrupting factor that affects the outcome of testing. A cell with large process variation which should ordinarily fail during memory test may pass due to impact of thermal noise at high temperature. To address this uncertainty during testing, we propose a stochastic metric for test coverage. We also propose application of N-detect and Multi-level Word Line (WL) techniques to improve test coverage based on this stochastic metric. Simulation studies on 32nm PTM models indicate varying probability of faulty bit detection across the spectrum of random thermal noise that lead to erroneous test results. Multiple accesses to each bit cell during test increases the fault coverage from -10% to near ideal 100%. Boosting WL voltage during read test and scaling it below nominal voltage during write test accelerates fault detection. Simulation of a 1KB SRAM array test case shows an improvement in fault coverage from -88% to 100% by increasing the number of detects to 100.
LS/2000 and five colleges, inc.: the user's perspective

The experiences of Five Colleges, Inc., a development and test site for OCLC's local system, are described. The initial response to and evaluation of the hardware and software, now operational at the local Five Colleges' site, are generally positive. Hopes for the future are expressed.
Hemisphere and ear asymmetry in the auditory evoked response to musical chord stimuli

The human averaged auditory evoked response (AER) to monaurally presented musical chord stimuli was recorded simultaneously from electrodes placed symmetrically over the two cerebral hemispheres at central and Wernicke (W) scalp locations. Stimulus presentation was quasi-random to the left (L) and right (R) ears of 14 normal-hearing right-handed male university students. The mean integrated amplitude over the initial 300 msec of the AER reflected asymmetries at the W locations as a function of hemisphere derivation and ear stimulated. The major interhemispheric difference observed when effects of contralateral auditory pathway-to-cortex projections had been equated was a significantly greater magnitude integrated amplitude response at the right (W2) scalp site to L-ear stimulation in comparison with the AER at the left (W1) cortical location to Rear stimulation. Differences of AERs between hemispheres summed across both ears stimulated conceived as attributable to additive auditory input showed a significantly greater integrated amplitude value at W2. When effects of contralateral auditory pathway predominance were examined, the AER integrated amplitude from W2 exceeded the hemisphere response at W1 to L-ear stimulation. The demonstrated asymmetries in the evoked response to musical chords may be associated with preponderance of the right hemisphere and saliency of the L ear for nonverbal, nonmeaningful auditory stimuli.
Visual performance for trip hazard detection when using incandescent and led miner cap lamps

INTRODUCTION: Accident data for 2003-2007 indicate that slip, trip, and falls (STFs) are the second leading accident class (17.8%, n=2,441) of lost-time injuries in underground mining. Proper lighting plays a critical role in enabling miners to detect STF hazards in this environment. Often, the only lighting available to the miner is from a cap lamp worn on the miner's helmet. The focus of this research was to determine if the spectral content of light from light-emitting diode (LED) cap lamps enabled visual performance improvements for the detection of tripping hazards as compared to incandescent cap lamps that are traditionally used in underground mining. A secondary objective was to determine the effects of aging on visual performance. METHOD: The visual performance of 30 subjects was quantified by measuring each subject's speed and accuracy in detecting objects positioned on the floor both in the near field, at 1.83meters, and far field, at 3.66meters. Near field objects were positioned at 0 degrees and +/-20 degrees off axis, while far field objects were positioned at 0 degrees and +/-10 degrees off axis. Three age groups were designated: group A consisted of subjects 18 to 25years old, group B consisted of subjects 40 to 50years old, and group C consisted of subjects 51years and older. RESULTS: Results of the visual performance comparison for a commercially available LED, a prototype LED, and an incandescent cap lamp indicate that the location of objects on the floor, the type of cap lamp used, and subject age all had significant influences on the time required to identify potential trip hazards. The LED-based cap lamps enabled detection times that were an average of 0.96 seconds faster compared to the incandescent cap lamp. Use of the LED cap lamps resulted in average detection times that were about 13.6% faster than those recorded for the incandescent cap lamp. The visual performance differences between the commercially available LED and prototype LED cap lamp were not statistically significant. IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: It can be inferred from this data that the spectral content from LED-based cap lamps could enable significant visual performance improvements for miners in the detection of trip hazards. Language: en
Angiopoietin-1 Prevents VEGF-Induced Endothelial Permeability by Sequestering Src through mDia

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Angiopoietin 1 (Ang1) are both potent proangiogenic factors, but, whereas VEGF causes vascular permeability, Ang1 stabilizes blood vessels and protects them from VEGF-induced plasma leakage. The antivascular permeability mechanisms deployed by Ang1 are still undefined. Here, we demonstrate that Ang1 halts the ability of VEGF to induce the phosphorylation-dependent redistribution of the adhesion molecule VE-cadherin, thereby rescuing the endothelial barrier function. Ang1 inhibits the activation of Src by VEGF, the most upstream component of the pathway linking VEGF receptors to VE-cadherin internalization. Indeed, Ang1 promotes the activation of mDia through RhoA, resulting in the association of mDia with Src. This ultimately deprives VEGF receptors of an essential molecule required for promoting the disruption of endothelial cell-cell contacts and paracellular permeability.