cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ratings for spectrum: Impacts of TV viewership on TV whitespace

Current TV whitespace regulations mainly benefit rural areas where large amounts of TV whitespace exist. Thus, the spectrum scarcity problem is yet to be addressed in urban locations, where it is most experienced. To further improve the spectrum efficiency, a new framework for cognitive radio network operation is presented, which can coexist with current broadcast TV networks. Through geographical evaluations based on distribution of TV towers and population dynamics, it is shown that by leveraging the TV viewership statistics, 5.6–7.7-fold increase in available channels can be provided to mobile users in populated areas such as New York City. Furthermore, daily dynamics of TV viewership can be exploited to provide up to 96 MHz additional bandwidth during prime time and 162–228 MHz additional bandwidth during non-peak hours. The additional TV spectrum can provide additional channel capacities in both rural and urban areas. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that analyzes TV whitespace availability based on TV viewership statistics in space and time.
Vertical and horizontal air flow above rows of a vineyard

Abstract Air-flow studies were conducted in a 4.85 ha vineyard. Mean horizontal wind-speed profiles were obtained with cup anemometers. Propeller anemometers measured longitudinal, lateral, and vertical velocities above the rows as a function of height, wind speed, and wind direction. A constant momentum-flux zone above the vineyard, within the measured heights of 227 to 641 cm, was not found. The semilog horizontal wind-speed profiles, obtained over the vineyard, fitted two straight lines, representing an inner and outer zone within the boundary layer. Z 0 was nearly constant. The number of uninterrupted updrafts of digitized propeller anemometer records was approximately equal to the number of uninterrupted downdrafts at each height, but the duration of these uninterrupted values was different. The total number of updrafts and downdrafts were, in general, not equal. Spectra from the four vertical anemometers showed that the total variance increased with height, as contributions to the low frequency portions of the spectra increased.
Exploring the origins of the human brain through molecular evolution.

The emergence of the human brain is one of evolution’s most compelling mysteries. With its singular importance and astounding complexity, understanding the forces that gave rise to the human brain is a major undertaking. Recently, the identification and publication of the complete genomic sequence of humans, mice, chimpanzees, and macaques has allowed for large-scale studies looking for the genic substrates of this natural selection. These investigations into positive selection, however, have generally produced incongruous results. Here we consider some of these studies and their differences in methodologies with an eye towards how they affect the results. We also clarify the strengths and weaknesses of each of these approaches and discuss how these can be synthesized to develop a more complete understanding of the genetic correlates behind the human brain and the selective events that have acted upon them.
Anterior lesser curvature laser seromyotomy with posterior truncal vagotomy: A potential treatment of peptic ulcer disease

Anterior lesser curvature seromyotomy combined with posterior truncal vagotomy has been suggested as an alternative to proximal gastric vagotomy in the treatment of peptic ulcer. The argon laser may be an ideal instrument for performing seromyotomy. This study compares anterior lesser curvature argon laser seromyotomy/posterior or truncal vagotomy with anterior proximal gastric vagotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy in a canine preparation. Six dogs underwent anterior lesser curvature argon laser seromyotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy and six others underwent anterior proximal gastric vagotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy. Gastric emptying and acid secretion studies were performed preoperatively and at 1 and 6 months postoperatively. Operating time and blood loss were determined. Anterior lesser curvature argon laser seromyotomy was performed with the argon laser at 10 W, continuous, delivered through a 600 micron unsheathed quartz fibre. Anterior proximal gastric vagotomy and posterior truncal vagotomy were performed in the standard fashion. Solid phase gastric emptying was slowed with both operations (P less than 0.05) but this was not manifest clinically. Blood loss (millilitres) was less following anterior lesser curvature argon laser seromyotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy than following anterior proximal gastric vagotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy (21(6.8) versus 95(28.1), mean (s.e.m.), P less than 0.05) but operating time was not significantly different between the groups. Mean basal acid secretion was reduced by 64 per cent 6 months after anterior lesser, curvature argon laser seromyotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy (P less than 0.05) and by 53 per cent after anterior proximal gastric vagotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy (not significant). Mean stimulated acid secretion was reduced by 41 per cent 6 months after anterior lesser curvature argon laser seromyotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy (P less than 0.05) and by 24 per cent after anterior proximal gastric vagotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy (not significant). We conclude that anterior lesser curvature argon laser seromyotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy is an acceptable alternative to anterior proximal gastric vagotomy/posterior truncal vagotomy and may provide superior parietal cell denervation with less operative blood loss.
Pharmacokinetics of single-dose oral pregabalin administration in normal dogs.

Abstract Objective To describe the pharmacokinetics of pregabalin in normal dogs after a single oral dose. Study design Prospective experiment. Animals Six adult Labrador/Greyhound dogs (four females and two males) aged 2.6 (2.6–5.6) years old (median and range) weighing 33.4 (26.8–42.1) kg. Methods After jugular vein catheterization, the dogs received a single oral dose of pregabalin (∼4 mg kg−1). Blood samples were collected at: 0 (before drug administration), 15 and 30 minutes and at 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24 and 36 hours after drug administration. Plasma pregabalin concentration was measured by HPLC. Noncompartmental analysis was used to estimate pharmacokinetic variables. Results No adverse effects were observed. The median (range) pharmacokinetic parameters were: Area under the curve from time 0 to 36 hours = 81.8 (56.5–92.1) μg hour mL−1; absorption half-life = 0.38 (0.25–1.11) hours; elimination half-life = 6.90 (6.21–7.40) hours; time over 2.8 μg mL−1 (the presumed minimal effective concentration) = 11.11 (6.97–14.47) hours; maximal plasma concentration (Cmax) = 7.15 (4.6–7.9) μg mL−1; time for Cmax to occur = 1.5 (1.0–4.0) hours. Assuming an 8-hour dosing interval, predicted minimal, average, and maximal steady state plasma concentrations were 6.5 (4.8–8.1), 8.8 (7.3–10.9), and 13.0 (8.8–15.2) μg mL−1. The corresponding values assuming a 12-hour interval were 3.8 (2.4–4.8), 6.8 (4.9–7.9), and 10.1 (6.6–11.6) μg mL−1. Conclusions and clinical relevance Pregabalin 4 mg kg−1 PO produces plasma concentrations within the extrapolated therapeutic range from humans for sufficient time to suggest that a twice daily dosing regime would be adequate. Further study of the drug's safety and efficacy for the treatment of neuropathic pain and seizures in dogs is warranted.
Recall of generic properties of words in aphasic patients.

Summary Sixteen aphasics were administered a naming test consisting of pictures of objects denoted by one, two and three syllable nouns. When an object was encountered which they were unable to name, a modified version of Brown and McNeill's tip-of-the-tongue test was used to determine their ability to retrieve certain generic characteristics of the name. It was found that the aphasics were generally able to retrieve the initial letter and the syllabic length of these un-named words. There were some differences dependent upon type of aphasia. Some implications of these findings for anomic disturbances in general are discussed.
Displays for Three-Dimensional Treatment Planning.

Abstract This article reviews the basic requirements for graphical displays for RTTP, and briefly describes some of the graphics hardware and software used in modern therapy planning. A number of different types of displays that have been developed for use in RTTP have been illustrated and discussed. Three-dimensional assessment of dose relative to underlying anatomy remains a difficult problem, even with the most sophisticated graphics. Therefore, work continues at a number of institutions to provide better presentations that will allow rapid and accurate evaluations of treatment plans.
Serine Metabolism: Some Tumors Take the Road Less Traveled

Cancer cells display a reprogramming of metabolism that facilitates growth but addicts them to key enzyme activities. Two studies in Nature and Nature Genetics find that the gene encoding the serine biosynthetic enzyme phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PHGDH) is amplified in a subset of cancers and contributes to tumor cell growth.
METALLIFEROUS SEDIMENTS AND THE SCAVENGING RESIDENCE TIME OF Nd NEAR HYDROTHERMAL VENTS

The isotopic composition of Nd is uniform in metalliferous sediments formed at distances varying from >1000 km to within 10 km of the East Pacific Rise (EPR) palaeoridge. These data indicate that hydrothermal vent fluids, despite having concentrations more than 500 times greater, have no effect on the Nd isotopic composition of seawater. This implicates efficient scavenging of hydrothermal Nd by particulates, resulting in extremely short residence times (< 1 year) close to the hydrothermal vents. Therefore Nd isotopic studies of ancient seawater precipitates, particularly metalliferous sediments, cannot be used to delimit the magnitude of past hydrothermal circulation without independent constraints on local scavenging rates (or residence times) relative to those of modern oceans.
Thermal Design and Characteristics of Thermal Distribution in Process Chamber

Thermal distribution has a critical effect on prototyping accuracy in rapid prototyping and rapid manufacturing. Any uneven thermal distribution in the work bed of the prototyping machine process chamber will result in product distortion. In order to optimize the thermal distribution enhance product accuracy of product and guide future design efforts, a full understanding is necessary, of the characteristics of thermal distribution in the process chamber. This study focuses on how to design and control thermal distribution in the process chamber due to natural convection with experimental and numerical thermal model. For optimal thermal design, the computational fluid mechanics (CFD) approach is one of the most powerful tools. Both experimental and numerical studies of six design configurations for different source heater locations and baffle configurations are presented in this paper.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
AsialoGM1-mediated IL-8 release by human corneal epithelial cells requires coexpression of TLR5.

PURPOSE. In this study, it was determined that human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) express asialoganglioside ganliotetraosylceramide (asialoGMl) and toll-like receptor (TLR)-5, and their interaction induces interleukin (IL)-8 release through Ca 2+ transient activation and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) stimulation. METHODS. Expression of asialoGM1 and TLR5 was detected in SV40 HCECs by Western blot and flow cytometry analyses and their association by coimmunoprecipitation. Single-cell fluorescence imaging was used to measure intracellular free Ca 2+ transients in fura-2-loaded cells. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to quantify IL-8 production in both cultured and primary HCECs. RESULTS. The HCECs expressed both asialoGM1 and TLR5 receptors. Ligation of asialoGM1 resulted in protein-protein interaction with TLR5, followed by transient increases in Ca 2+ influx through L-type voltage-dependent Ca 2+ channels. This led to P2Y receptor stimulation along with membrane depolarization, resulting from increases in ATP release into the medium. Intracellular Ca 2+ transients led to time-dependent extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) MAPK pathway stimulation, followed by a 9.5-fold increase in IL-8 release. Similarly, in primary HCECs, asialoGMl receptor stimulation resulted in an 8.1-fold increase. With a TLR5 neutralizing antibody, no asialoGM1-induced increases in IL-8 release occurred, and this response was not suppressed in the presence of a TLR2 neutralizing antibody. CONCLUSIONS. IL-8 release by HCECs is mediated through ligand-induced asialoGMl protein-protein interactions with TLR5. This response is dependent on ATP efflux into the medium, followed by P2Y receptor stimulation. Such activation, in turn, results in increases in Ca 2+ influx through L-type voltage-dependent Ca 2+ channels, as well as stimulation of the ERK pathway.
Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy of β-Tubulin and α-Actinin in Asexual Stages of Eimeria tenella (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) in Cell Culture

Summary: Specific monoclonal antibodies were used to visualize the dynamics of β-tubulin and α-actinin in asexual development of Eimeria tenella in cultured primary chicken kidney cells by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy. β-tubulin was more condensed in refractile bodies (RB), at anterior ends, and along subpellicles in sporozoites. The RB remained labelled during the development of first generation schizonts until the formation of merozoites, suggesting a possible important role of RB in the reorganization of microtubules in schizonts. The microtubules also formed a number of tiny aggregation centers scattered throughout the schizonts corresponding to the formation of first generation merozoites. The microtubular material in second generation schizonts was clustered around several weakly-stained areas. Both first and second generation merozoites had more highly concentrated β-tubulin at anterior ends and along subpellicles. In contrast, α-actinin, and actin-binding protein, was more concentrated in the anterior half area of sporozoites. It became evenly distribution in the whole cytosol of developing trophozoites except RB areas. The distribution of α-actinin in first or second generation schizonts corresponded to merozoite formation. The β-tubulin and α-actinin of chicken primary kidney cells were also labelled by the two monoclonal antibodies.
Wilhelm II's Weisser Saal and its Doppelthron

Kaiser Wilhelm II's refashioning of the principal diplomatic space within his Berlin palace was both a political and an architectural endeavour. In his radical transformation of the Weisser Saal or White Hall of the Berlin palace, Wilhelm expressed not only his dual identities as both German Emperor and King of Prussia, but also his fascination with the latest technology. Working with architect Ernst Ihne, Wilhelm created a Weisser Saal strikingly modern in its purity of volume and its conceptual use of architecture-as-lamp, critical aspects obscured by the hall's neo-baroque decorative programme. This analysis examines the political, architectural and topographical contexts in which the Kaiser conceived this space, a project that he initiated shortly after assuming the throne. The room's transformation lasted over half his reign and was one of Wilhelm's most expensive building projects. In conjunction with this endeavour, Wilhelm also fashioned a peculiar Doppelthron or double throne for the room, another attempt to express his dual titles. Designed to impart both dynastic and national legitimacy, Wilhelm's Weisser Saal and its double throne were however undermined by subtexts of impermanence, an irony that calls into question their ultimate efficacy as political acts.
Denaturation of Proteins by SDS and Tetraalkylammonium Dodecyl Sulfates

This article describes the use of capillary electrophoresis (CE) to examine the influence of different cations (C(+); C(+) = Na(+) and tetra-n-alkylammonium, NR(4)(+), where R = Me, Et, Pr, and Bu) on the rates of denaturation of bovine carbonic anhydrase II (BCA) in the presence of anionic surfactant dodecylsulfate (DS(-)). An analysis of the denaturation of BCA in solutions of Na(+)DS(-) and NR(4)(+)DS(-) (in Tris-Gly buffer) indicated that the rates of formation of complexes of denatured BCA with DS(-) (BCA(D)-DS(-)(n,sat)) are indistinguishable and independent of the cation below the critical micellar concentration (cmc) and independent of the total concentration of DS(-) above the cmc. At concentrations of C(+)DS(-) above the cmc, BCA denatured at rates that depended on the cation; the rates decreased by a factor >10(4) in the order of Na(+) ≈ NMe(4)(+) > NEt(4)(+) > NPr(4)(+) > NBu(4)(+), which is the same order as the values of the cmc (which decrease from 4.0 mM for Na(+)DS(-) to 0.9 mM for NBu(4)(+)DS(-) in Tris-Gly buffer). The relationship between the cmc values and the rates of formation of BCA(D)-DS(-)(n,sat()) suggested that the kinetics of denaturation of BCA involve the association of this protein with monomeric DS(-) rather than with micelles of (C(+)DS(-))(n). A less-detailed survey of seven other proteins (α-lactalbumin, β-lactoglobulin A, β-lactoglobulin B, carboxypeptidase B, creatine phosphokinase, myoglobin, and ubiquitin) showed that the difference between Na(+)DS(-) and NR(4)(+)DS(-) observed with BCA was not general. Instead, the influence of NR(4)(+) on the association of DS(-) with these proteins depended on the protein. The selection of the cation contributed to the properties (including the composition, electrophoretic mobility, and partitioning behavior in aqueous two-phase systems) of aggregates of denatured protein and DS(-). These results suggest that the variation in the behavior of NR(4)(+)DS(-) with changes in R may be exploited in methods used to analyze and separate mixtures of proteins.
Life and death cell labeling in the microcirculation of the spontaneously hypertensive rat.

Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) have elevated numbers of apoptotic cells. However, the extent and pattern of cell death at the microvascular level is unexplored. We developed a technique to det
Model-based matching using a minimum representation size criterion and a hybrid genetic algorithm

Matching of observed scene features to stored models of known objects, in 2-D and 3-D, is a fundamental step toward general scene interpretation. For these problems, the match is defined in terms of the correspondence between the model features and the scene features, and the transformation that maps the model onto the scene. The technique presented in this paper uses a hybrid genetic algorithm to search for the correspondence, and each correspondence is evaluated by finding the associated transformation. The genetic algorithm is composed of a position based crossover operator, and two mutation operators: a random mutation operator and an assignment based mutation operator. The measure of the match, as defined by a correspondence and a transformation, is made in accordance with the principles of the minimum representation size criteria. Results for models and scenes in large, occluded, and cluttered environments are described. The results are presented for two distinct cases, in the first case the model and scene are specified in 2-D, and in the second case the model is specified in 3-D and the scene in 2-D. The results show the genetic algorithm based search technique to be very efficient and the overall matching technique to be robust in noisy environments.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Science for Sale: Improve Ethics Education

We applaud Science for its investigative journalism on “China's publication bazaar” (M. Hvistendahl, News Focus, 29 November 2013, p. [1035][1]). This article should stimulate other journals to undertake similar research. Indeed, we would like to suggest that conducting such research become a
Fluphenazine levels during maintenance treatment of recent-onset schizophrenia: relation to side effects, psychosocial function and depression.

Rationale: The utility of fluphenazine levels during maintenance treatment of schizophrenia is still unclear. Objectives: This study investigated the relationship between fluphenazine levels and a variety of clinical measures during maintenance treatment of schizophrenia. Methods: Fluphenazine levels, side effects, depression and psychosocial outcome were measured at five time points over approximately 1 year in 59 recent onset schizophrenic patients treated with a maintenance dose of injectable fluphenazine decanoate. Negative symptoms were evaluated at the 1-year endpoint. Results: Fluphenazine levels showed marked intraindividual variability even when measurements were restricted to the second 6 months of treatment, by which time steady state levels should have been achieved. No consistent relationship was found between fluphenazine levels and any of the outcome measures. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that fluphenazine plasma levels do not routinely add relevant clinical information beyond that of dose in evaluating potential side effects or negative consequences during maintenance treatment with the decanoate form of the medication.
The cDNA sequence of murine Nkx-2.2

Abstract We isolated and sequenced a 2026-bp murine Nkx-2.2 cDNA clone that contains an open reading frame encoding 273 amino acids (aa). The 273-aa protein includes a homeobox, an NK-2 box and an N-terminal decapeptide found in other NK family members.
Cerebral Microembolism and Early Recurrent Cerebral or Retinal Ischemic Events

Background and Purpose We investigated whether cerebral microembolism as detected by transcranial Doppler ultrasonography (TCD) identifies patients at an increased risk for early, recurrent cerebral or retinal ischemic events. Methods Records of consecutive patients examined during a 40-month period in the Neurovascular Laboratory were reviewed for the presence of cerebral microembolism. Of the original 302 patients, 229 with 310 arteries met inclusionary criteria. Follow-up information was obtained from the laboratory’s database as well as the hospital records. Microembolus detection studies were performed on TC-2000 or TC-2020 instruments equipped with special software, and criteria established a priori were used for microembolus selection. TCD testing was performed a median interval of 9 days after the initial symptoms of cerebral ischemia. Severity of arterial stenosis was determined by cerebral angiography or noninvasive methods. Results Microembolic signals were detected more frequently in symptomat...
Observed albedo decrease related to the spring snow retreat

We study the impact of the spring snow retreat on albedo from 1979 to 1991 using the ultraviolet (UV) reflectivity measured by the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS). Over the Northern Hemisphere (NH) snowy land area that was snow covered at least once during this period, we find a 1.5% decrease over the 13 years in the springtime UV reflectivity, related to a 5 × 10^6km^² decrease in the satellite derived spring snow cover. About half of the reflectance decrease occurred over regions where snow cover and reflectance correlate at a 99% significance level. The 1.5% UV reflectivity decrease corresponds to a 1% decrease in the visible albedo over the snowy region, and a ∼2 Wm^(−2) increase in the shortwave heating when averaged over the entire NH land. Based on observed interannual reflectivity changes over the entire NH snowy land area, our study provides a direct constraint on the shortwave forcing of the spring NH snow retreat.
Rapid-Construction Technique for Bridge Abutments Using Controlled Low-Strength Materials

The time required for building bridge abutments is one of the main obstacles facing rapid bridge construction. For typical span bridges, this can be remedied by using controlled low-strength materials (CLSM) as backfill materials placed behind full-height, precast concrete panels that are integrated with the CLSM backfill via steel anchors. The CLSM bridge abutments can be constructed in a short time as they require neither heavy machinery for excavation and compaction nor piling equipment. In addition to the speedy construction, the ability to use by-product material, such as fly ash and foundry sand, in CLSM backfill translates into greater economy and the potential for a sustainable design. This paper describes the behavior of an instrumented laboratory, large-scale CLSM bridge abutment with full-height, precast concrete panels that was subjected to a monotonically increasing sill pressure. The experiment showed that the CLSM bridge abutment is capable of carrying typical bridge loads with a large safety margin and with negligible deformations.
Effects of Gas‐Producing Platforms on Continental Shelf Megafauna in the Northwest Gulf of Mexico: Reproductive Status and Health

One component of the Gulf of Mexico Offshore Operations Monitoring Experiment (GOOMEX) was to assess the reproductive effort and health (defined as the prevalence and intensity of parasites or pathologies) of mobile macroepifauna collected near-to and far-from gas-producing platforms. The stage of reproductive development as determined by visual inspection or histological analysis was rarely significantly different between near-field and far-field sites. Tissues were examined histologically to determine the prevalence and intensity of parasitism and disease. If a difference in parasitism or pathology existed, individuals collected far-from the platforms typically had higher prevalences while individuals living near-to the platforms usually had higher intensities. Parasitism and disease had little effect on stage of reproductive development except at MU-A85 where individuals with increased disease and parasitism also had decreased reproductive development. Variations in infection intensity were not due to differences in age structure of populations. Larger, older individuals were not consistently more heavily parasitized. Trend in reproductive stage and population health did not follow trends in environmental contamination; the fewest significant differences were observed at the most contaminated platforms. Patterns of differences in parasitism, disease and reproductive effort between the near and far-field stations were platform specific, indicating that the physical and chemical characteristics unique to each platform probably control reproductive effort and levels of disease and parasitism in populations living there. The influence of structure, a variable common to all platforms, did not exert an overriding influence. Mobile taxa such as shrimp exhibited near-field/far-field differences as frequently as the less mobile species such as starfish. Thus, mobile epifauna maintain discrete populations over long-enough time periods to develop different population histories. Shallow-water sites were more likely to exhibit platform-specific near-field/far-field differences in population structure suggesting that trends in water depth and the intensity of seasonality may explain the apparent uniqueness of each platform's effect on population structure and health.
Deterministic soluble model of coarsening

We investigate a three-phase deterministic one-dimensional phase ordering model in which interfaces move ballistically and annihilate upon colliding. We determine analytically the autocorrelation function A(t). This is done by computing generalized first-passage-type probabilities ${\mathrm{P}}_{\mathrm{n}}$(t), which measure the fraction of space crossed by exactly n interfaces during the time interval (0,t), and then expressing the autocorrelation function via ${\mathrm{P}}_{\mathrm{n}}$'s. We further reveal the spatial structure of the system by analyzing the domain size distribution.
Clinical status, ocular surface changes and tear ferning in patients with cystic fibrosis

. Twenty-three cystic fibrosis patients and 20 controls were examined for ocular surface changes and tear fluid ferning characteristics. The patients were also evaluated systemically and given numerical scores according to Schwachman's scoring system. Frequency of blepharitis, fluorescein staining, and the Schirmer's test values did not differ between patients and controls. Patients with cystic fibrosis had a higher frequency of altered ferning pattern that corresponded to the disease severity as measured by the Schwachman score (r = − 0.48, p < 0.05). Although altered ferning pattern was frequent, the rate of type I ferning was also high (30%) in patients with cystic fibrosis. We conclude that the ferning test should not be used as an aid in diagnosis of cystic fibrosis but it may be used as an indicator of clinical status during follow-up.
Polarization-enhanced invariant fingerprint verification/identification system

We have previously shown that polarization enhancement of fingerprint images during the enrolment process improves the performance of the verification and identification processes. In this paper, we present a design and analysis of a new synthetic discriminant function (SDF) for rotation/scale invariant polarization-enhanced fingerprint system. Performance comparison between the proposed SDF and an SDF obtained for traditional fingerprint systems is included.
Extinguishing conditioned inhibition in flavour-aversion learning: effects of repeated testing and extinction of the excitatory element.

Three conditioned inhibition experiments using an A+/AX- design are reported in which lithium-mediated excitatory conditioning occurred to distinctive environmental stimuli and inhibitory conditioning to a vinegar flavour. Increased vinegar preferences were observed (i.e., conditioned inhibition) in each experiment, and these preferences extinguished with repeated testing as well as following extinction of the excitatory element. Vinegar preferences could be reinstated through reconditioning of the extinguished excitatory stimulus. These experiments speak to the status of inhibitory responding as a “slave” process to conditioned excitation.
Facial analysis: maintaining ethnic balance.

Achieving balance and harmony are the goal of most facial plastic surgical procedures. The ideal balance is unclear for the patient of non-Caucasian background. This article reviews the current literature on analysis of the face for African American, Latino, and Asian populations. ‘‘Caucasianization’’ and future directions are also discussed. Facial analysis is an integral aspect of the patient consultation prior to performing a plastic surgery procedure. A comprehensive understanding of facial proportions is requisite to identifying deviations from the aesthetic ideal and achieving facial harmony and balance. These aesthetic ideals dictate the techniques and guide the approach to surgery to achieve an aesthetically proportioned face. The focus of the preoperative discussion with the patient is often based on achieving this ideal, tempered by the patient’s individual preferences and the surgeon’s aesthetic sense. In addition, it is important to recognize that these ideals are merely guidelines, and that subjective analysis and patient individuality continue to remain vital aspects of the patient consultation. Traditionally, the aesthetic ideal was based on neoclassical facial canons developed by artists and anatomists in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Since then, modern anthropometric measurements of the ideal face, based on actual measurements, have been well described. This aesthetic ideal, however, is based on the Caucasian patient [1,2]. Ethnic variability from these established canons has only recently been reported [3–6]. Differences between ethnic groups are readily apparent on casual observation to both the layperson and the clinician. There is tremendous diversity even within ethnic groups due to geographic origin and inter-racial marriages. Nevertheless, the aesthetic ideal for the non-Caucasian ethnic patient has not been well defined and, therefore, presents a challenge for the astute surgeon. Frequently, the ethnic patient is made to fit the Caucasian ideal, due to either patient desire or surgeon preference, yielding an incongruent appearance. The resultant face is disharmonious and appears obviously operated, even to the untrained eye. More recently, the focus has been on maintenance of a refined ethnocentric appearance, with natural-appearing balanced facial proportions [7]. This article reviews the classical canons that provide the foundation for facial analysis and focuses on the analysis of the face based on ethnic background. Historical perspective
Where Have All the Tomboys Gone? Women’s Accounts of Gender in Adolescence

This study was designed to investigate accounts of tomboyism cessation and continuation in adolescence in the narratives of a small sample of adult, working and lower-middle class, New Jersey-area lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual women who identified as childhood tomboys. Study participants discussed several reasons for ceasing and continuing tomboyism in adolescence, including maturation, heterosexual interests, parental and peer pressures, athletic participation, and sexual desires for girls or women. Several participants questioned the tomboy label by highlighting discrepancies between behavior and identification. Women’s relationships to the varied gendered meanings referenced in the “tomboy” label, the salience of women’s adult sexualities in their narratives of gender in adolescence, and the dangers for scholars of presuming conformity and heterosexuality are discussed.
Influence of generation number on the dewetting of hypergraft poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) films

We investigate the influence of polymer branching (generation number G) on the dewetting of hypergraft poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PEOX) polymer films from model non-polar synthetic polymer and inorganic substrates. The present study contrasts the cases of a zeroth generation G0 hypergraft, which is a comb polymer, and a G2 hypergraft, which resembles a nearly spherical 'microgel' particle. The early stage of dewetting is found to be similar in the G0 and G2 films and is largely independent of substrate (entangled polystyrene film or acid-cleaned silica wafer). However, the late stage of dewetting in the G2 films differs significantly from the GO films because of an inhibition of hole coalescence in the intermediate stage of film dewetting. The holes in the G2 hyperbranched films continue to grow in size until they impinge on each other to form a foam-like structure with a uniform 'cell' size. The boundaries of these cells break up and the vertices of the former cellular network retract to form a relatively uniform droplet configuration. In contrast, hole coalescence in the GO films occurs readily, leading to a polydisperse hole size distribution, and the fluid borders of the holes break up to form the non-uniform 'Voronoi' droplet configuration normally associated with film dewetting. Similar trends have been observed in the dewetting of linear polymer films where entangled polymers behave similarly to the branched (G2) polymers of the present study. This effect is attributed to the viscoelasticity of the G2 hyperbranched polymer fluid.
Food security during infancy: implications for attachment and mental proficiency in toddlerhood.

Objective This study examined the associations between household food security (access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food) during infancy and attachment and mental proficiency in toddlerhood. Methods Data from a longitudinal nationally representative sample of infants and toddlers (n = 8944) from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study—9-month (2001-2002) and 24-month (2003-2004) surveys were used. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the direct and indirect associations between food insecurity at 9 months, and attachment and mental profi- ciency at 24 months. Results Food insecurity worked indirectly through depression and parenting practices to influence security of attachment and mental proficiency in toddlerhood. Conclusions Social policies that address the adequacy and predictability of food supplies in families with infants have the potential to affect parental depression and parenting behavior, and thereby attachment and cognitive development at very early ages.
Treatment of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infections with a Minimal Inhibitory Concentration of 2 μg/mL to Vancomycin: Old (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) versus New (Daptomycin or Linezolid) Agents

Background:Guidelines recommend that agents other than vancomycin be considered for some types of infection due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) when the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) to vancomycin is 2 μg/mL or more. Alternative therapeutic options include daptomycin and linezolid, 2 relatively new and expensive drugs, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX), an old and inexpensive agent.Objective:To compare the clinical efficacy and potential cost savings associated with use of TMP/SMX compared to linezolid and daptomycin.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted at Detroit Medical Center. For calendar year 2009, unique adults (age >18 years) with infections due to MRSA with an MIC to vancomycin of 2 μg/mL were included if they received 2 or more doses of TMP/SMX and/or daptomycin and/or linezolid. Data were abstracted from patient charts and pharmacy records.Results:There were 328 patients included in the study cohort: 143 received TMP/SMX alone, 89 received daptomyc...
Latanoprost for Uncontrolled Glaucoma in a Compassionate Case Protocol

Purpose To evaluate the ocular hypotensive response of latanoprost 0.005% administered as adjunctive therapy in patients with glaucoma who were receiving maximal tolerated medical therapy. Methods Consecutive patients entering a latanoprost compassionate clinical trial were enrolled at two sites. Latanoprost 0.005% was administered as a single drop between 6 and 8 PM, and all other medications were continued. Intraocular pressure was measured between 2 and 4 PM. Responders were defined as having a reduction in intraocular pressure of at least 20% from baseline. Results In 160 eyes of 160 patients, mean baseline intraocular pressure ± SD was 23.3 ± 6.9 mm Hg. Intraocular pressure was significantly reduced compared with baseline measurements (P .4 at all intervals). Eight patients (5.0%) developed ocular allergy or irritation necessitating cessation of latanoprost therapy. Conclusion Latanoprost 0.005% may provide significant further intraocular pressure reduction in patients already receiving maximal tolerated medical therapy.
DURATION OF MOVEMENT AS A LIZARD FORAGING MOVEMENT VARIABLE

Studies of lizard foraging modes and their correlates have led to major advances in our understanding of the evolution of lizard taxonomic, morphological, physiological, ecological and behavioral diversity. Although two basic foraging modes, ambush and active foraging, have been recognized, variability in foraging movements among species has led to controversies about their existence and the complexity and continuity of foraging behaviors. The variables central to the controversies are number of movements per minute and percent time moving. A third variable, the average duration per bout of movement, has been neglected. For 80 species I show that average duration, like the other variables, is continuous, unimodal, and lognormally distributed. Average duration is highly correlated with percent time moving, but only weakly with number of movements per minute. In discriminant function analysis and cluster analyses, average duration performed slightly worse at separating species by mode than percent time movi...
Assessing Distributional Impacts of Forest Policies and Projects An Integrated Approach

This study identifies the demand for distributional impact assessment related to forest policies and projects and the linkages between distributional impacts and sustainable development. An integrated model is developed to assess distributional impact of forest policies and projects. The procedures of distributional impact assessment are discussed Emphasis is placed on the usefulness of the model in practice by integrating monetary and nonmonetary measures. The distributional impacts of the introduction of structural particleboard technology are assessed to illustrate the use of the model. The results show that useful information can be obtained by this integrated approach.
A 14b 80 MS/s SAR ADC With 73.6 dB SNDR in 65 nm CMOS

A 14-bit SAR ADC is presented that achieves 73.6 dB SNDR at 80 MSPS while using a 1.2-V-only supply. In order to overcome throughput limitations common to conventional SAR ADCs, several techniques are proposed. First, a flash sub-ADC is utilized to resolve the 5 MSBs quickly prior to SAR sequential decisions of the LSBs. Second, the DAC operation is time-interleaved by a factor of 2, increasing speed while allowing a single comparator to be shared between all DACs. Third, fully on-chip DAC charge redistribution allows the DAC settling time to be improved by more than an order of magnitude compared to conventional techniques. Finally, the ADC is fully self-timed through the use of a replica timer circuit in order to take full advantage of the fast DAC settling and comparator decisions. Despite the increased speed, the ADC consumes only 31.1 mW and occupies a core area of 0.55 mm2.
A Statistical Theory for PERT Critical Path Analysis

PERT and Critical Path techniques are enjoying exceptionally broad application in industrial and military activities. These techniques and their application have without doubt contributed significantly to better planning, control, and general organization of many programs. Although some currently used PERT computations take account of the variation in the completion times of individual operations, the methods used are approximate and are known to lead to a optimistic project completion times and b misidentifications of “critical paths.” In this paper the effect of these approximations is assessed and an unbiassed statistical distribution theory for PERT developed. Both analytic theory and numerical analysis are used to achieve this but in certain situations approximate evaluations by Monte Carlo have to be made. Moreover, a new classification of PERT networks is presented along with two methods of analysis which do not have the deficiencies noted above. The classification system delineates clearly between “uncrosaed,” “crossed,” and “mixed networks.”
An Ergatis-based prokaryotic genome annotation web server

Summary: Ergatis is a flexible workflow management system for designing and executing complex bioinformatics pipelines. However, its complexity restricts its usage to only highly skilled bioinformaticians. We have developed a web-based prokaryotic genome annotation server, Integrative Services for Genomics Analysis (ISGA), which builds upon the Ergatis workflow system, integrates other dynamic analysis tools and provides intuitive web interfaces for biologists to customize and execute their own annotation pipelines. ISGA is designed to be installed at genomics core facilities and be used directly by biologists. Availability: ISGA is accessible at http://isga.cgb.indiana.edu/ and the system is also freely available for local installation. Contact: qunfeng.dong@unt.edu Supplementary information:Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Pore dynamics and conductance of RyR1 transmembrane domain.

Ryanodine receptors (RyR) are calcium release channels, playing a major role in the regulation of muscular contraction. Mutations in skeletal muscle RyR (RyR1) are associated with congenital diseases such as malignant hyperthermia and central core disease (CCD). The absence of high-resolution structures of RyR1 has limited our understanding of channel function and disease mechanisms at the molecular level. Previously, we have reported a hypothetical structure of the RyR1 pore-forming region, obtained by homology modeling and supported by mutational scans, electrophysiological measurements, and cryo-electron microscopy. Here, we utilize the expanded model encompassing six transmembrane helices to calculate the RyR1 pore region conductance, to analyze its structural stability, and to hypothesize the mechanism of the Ile4897 CCD-associated mutation. The calculated conductance of the wild-type RyR1 suggests that the proposed pore structure can sustain ion currents measured in single-channel experiments. We observe a stable pore structure on timescales of 0.2 μs, with multiple cations occupying the selectivity filter and cytosolic vestibule, but not the inner chamber. We further suggest that stability of the selectivity filter critically depends on the interactions between the I4897 residue and several hydrophobic residues of the neighboring subunit. Loss of these interactions in the case of polar substitution I4897T results in destabilization of the selectivity filter, a possible cause of the CCD-specific reduced Ca2+ conductance.
IMPROVED SYNTHESIS OF 10-(2-ALKYLAMINO-2-OXOETHYL)-1,4,7,10-TETRAAZACYCLODODECANE-1,4,7-TRIACETIC ACID DERIVATIVES BEARING ACID-SENSITIVE LINKERS.

Abstract Alkylation of the hydrobromide salts of 1,4,7-tris(methoxycarbonylmethyl)-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane and 1,4,7-tris(ethoxycarbonylmethyl)-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane with appropriate α-bromoacetamides, followed by hydrolysis, provides convenient access to 10-(2-alkylamino-2-oxoethyl)-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7-triacetic acid derivatives that contain acid-sensitive functional groups. The utility of the method is demonstrated by improved syntheses of two known 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid monoamides bearing acid-sensitive ω-tritylthio alkyl chains in much greater yields based on cyclen as the starting material. [Supplementary materials are available for this article. Go to the publisher's online edition of Synthetic Communications® for the following free supplemental resource(s): Full experimental and spectral details.]
The Potential Predictability of Precipitation Occurrence, Intensity, and Seasonal Totals over the Continental United States*

AbstractUsing weather station data, the parameters of a stationary stochastic weather model (SSWM) for daily precipitation over the contiguous United States are estimated. By construct, the model exactly captures the variance component of seasonal precipitation characteristics (intensity, occurrence, and total amount) arising from high-frequency variance. By comparing the variance of the lower-frequency accumulations (on the order of months) between the SSWM and the original measurements, potential predictability (PP) is estimated. Decomposing the variability into contributions from occurrence and intensity allows one to establish two contributing sources of total PP. Aggregated occurrence is found to have higher PP than either intensity or the seasonal total precipitation, and occurrence and intensity are found to interfere destructively when convolved into seasonal totals. It is recommended that efforts aimed at forecasting seasonal precipitation or attributing climate variability to particular processe...
Real life, real users, and real needs: a study and analysis of user queries on the web

We analyzed transaction logs containing 51,473 queries posed by 18,113 users of Excite, a major Internet search service. We provide data on: (i) sessions — changes in queries during a session, number of pages viewed, and use of relevance feedback; (ii) queries — the number of search terms, and the use of logic and modifiers; and (iii) terms — their rank/frequency distribution and the most highly used search terms. We then shift the focus of analysis from the query to the user to gain insight to the characteristics of the Web user. With these characteristics as a basis, we then conducted a failure analysis, identifying trends among user mistakes. We conclude with a summary of findings and a discussion of the implications of these findings. # 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.