cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adaptive control for hybrid electric vehicles

Existing controllers of hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) are mostly tuned to achieve higher fuel economy for specific driving conditions. In this paper, a brief review of control strategies is presented followed by new approaches to implementing an optimisation based controller. First, a control strategy based on stochastic dynamic programming that can be used for real time applications is presented. This strategy achieves about 10% increase in fuel efficiency in most drive cycles over a rule-based control strategy. The second analysis uses an artificial neural network (ANN) to develop an optimised control strategy. Several existing hybrid control strategies are used to model a base for city and highway driving. Elite simulation data was extracted to form a training set for the ANN. The training set was then used to develop a new ANN control strategy that was superior to all the existing strategies used to develop the training set.
Organizational Predictors of Women on Corporate Boards

Women are increasing in number among corporations' boards of directors, yet their representation is far from uniform across firms. In this study, we adopted a resource dependence theory lens to ide...
Vehicle Dynamics in Response to the Maneuver of Precision Immobilization Technique

The Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) is a maneuver frequently used by the law enforcement to terminate a hazardous vehicle pursuit situation. The maneuver is performed by intentionally nudging the pursued vehicle sideways to create large yaw motion which renders the pursued vehicle out of control. This work investigates the behavior of vehicles involved in this maneuver, develops dynamics models for the pre-impact, impact, and post-impact stages. Simulation results provide guidelines for the effective execution of the maneuver. In addition, the case for the vehicle equipped with an active yaw control system, such as the Electronic Stability Control, in response to the PIT maneuver is also addressed.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Approximations and computational methods for Optimal Stopping and Stochastic Impulsive Control problems

The paper treats a computational method for the Optimal Stopping and Stochastic Impulsive Control problem for a diffusion. In the latter problem control acts only intermittently since there is a basic positive “transaction” cost to be paid at each instant that the control acts. For eachh > 0, a controlled Markov chain is constructed, whose continuous time interpolations are a natural approximation to the diffusion, for both the optimal stopping and impulsive control situations. The solutions to the optimal stopping and impulsive control problems for the chains are relatively easy to obtain by using standard procedures, and they converge to the solutions of the corresponding problems for the diffusion models ash→0.
Bicarbonate Enhances the Hydroxylation, Nitration, and Peroxidation Reactions Catalyzed by Copper, Zinc Superoxide Dismutase INTERMEDIACY OF CARBONATE ANION RADICAL

The effect of bicarbonate anion (HCO3−) on the peroxidase activity of copper, zinc superoxide dismutase ( SOD1 ) was investigated using three structurally different probes: 5,5′-dimethyl-1-pyrrolineN-oxide (DMPO), tyrosine, and 2,2′-azino-bis-[3-ethylbenzothiazoline]-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS). Results indicate that HCO3− enhanced SOD/H2O2-dependent (i) hydroxylation of DMPO to DMPO-OH as measured by electron spin resonance, (ii) oxidation and nitration of tyrosine to dityrosine, nitrotyrosine, and nitrodityrosine as measured by high pressure liquid chromatography, and (iii) oxidation of ABTS to the ABTS cation radical as measured by UV-visible spectroscopy. Using oxygen-17-labeled water, it was determined that the oxygen atom present in the DMPO-OH adduct originated from H2O and not from H2O2. This result proves that neither free hydroxyl radical nor enzyme-bound hydroxyl radical was involved in the hydroxylation of DMPO . We postulate that HCO3− enhances SOD1 peroxidase activity via formation of a putative carbonate radical anion. This new and different perspective on HCO3−-mediated oxidative reactions of SOD1 may help us understand the free radical mechanism of SOD1 and related mutants linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Motion estimation and visualization for four-dimensional optical microscopy

Four-dimensional (4D) microscopy, the acquisition of time-resolved 3D images of living biological samples, provides not only structural data but also contains information on the mechanics and forces inside a living cell. In order to extract, quantify, and visualize such information for chromosomes, we are exploring simple computational methods that will allow quantitative estimation of chromosome motion within 4D images of living nuclei. A correspondence-based approach is required due to limited temporal resolution. The chromosomes we are tracking are relatively textureless, but additional structural constraints can be imposed to discriminate against false matches.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Parasitized and non-parasitized prey selectivity by an insectivorous bird

Abstract The identification and conservation of naturally occurring enemies of crop pests is an important means of improving biological control in cropping systems. One particularly important potential mechanism whereby birds might stabilize and improve pest control is consumption of individual prey that escape mortality from other agents of biological control. We tested the hypothesis that birds prefer to forage upon non-parasitized fall armyworm ( Spodoptera frugiperda J. E. Smith) prey via captive feeding trials, where birds were also offered armyworms parasitized by Euplectrus plathypenae (Howard) larvae. While birds were equally willing to eat both parasitized and non-parasitized armyworm prey of the same body size, they strongly preferred larger non-parasitized prey. This preference continued even as this prey item became less numerous than smaller parasitized worms during feeding trials. Our results suggest that birds may contribute to the biological control of arthropod pests that escape control, become larger in body size and, subsequently, a favored prey item.
Gas phase axial dispersion in a packed column oxygen absorber

Gas phase axial dispersion was characterized within an enclosed packed column receiving oxygen and water under counter-current flow conditions. Steady-state gas phase profiles (longitudinal) were measured during a series of 90 column runs in which, at each of three bed depths (0·362, 0·699, and 1·041 m), all combinations of the following independent variables were tested: influent volumetric oxygen-liquid ratio, 0·8, 1·6, 2·6, 4·0, and 8·0%; hydraulic loading, 32·0 and 61·2 kg/m2 s; and packing type, 2·54 cm Tri-Pack®, 3·81 cm Nor-Pac® and 5·08 cm Nor-Pac®. Over the range of operating conditions tested, gas phase mixing was extensive and for all practical purposes could be considered complete. A homogeneous gas phase within the column, unlike true counter-current flow, results in an exponential decay in dissolved gas deficits as the liquid passes through the packing. Thus, increases in packed bed depth will result in diminishing increases in gas absorption/desorption.
Distribution of random functional of a Dirichlet process on the unit disk

Abstract Let U be a Dirichlet process with parameter μ on (Θ, B), where Θ is [0, 2π), B is the σ-field of Borel subsets of Θ and μ is a uniform measure on (Θ, B). It can be shown that ∫Θeiθ dU(θ) follows a uniform distribution on the unit disk.
Triacylglycerol and coronary heart disease

Based on meta-analysis of prospective studies from the epidemiological literature, TAG is a risk factor for CVD, independent of HDL-cholesterol. The RR values were 1.3 and 1.8 for a 1 mmol/l increase in TAG among men and women respectively. Adjustment for HDL-cholesterol and other risk factors attenuated these estimates, but they remained statistically significant. Recent prospective findings from the Stanford Five City Project (Gardner et al. 1996) and the Physicians' Health Study (Stampfer et al. 1996) further demonstrate that TAG and LDL size are highly inter-related risk factors for CHD. Quantitative genetic analysis from large-scale family studies show that these correlations reflect common genetic influences that may be important for understanding genetic susceptibility to CHD.
Glucose transporter protein expression in human placenta throughout gestation and in intrauterine growth retardation

Despite the importance of glucose for fetal growth, gestational development of placental glucose transport capacity has not been studied in the human. Furthermore, inadequate glucose transport has been implicated as a pathophysiological mechanism in intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). We studied glucose transporter (GLUT) protein expression in sections of normal term placental tissue (immunocytochemistry) and in syncytiotrophoblast microvillous (MVM) and basal membranes (BM) isolated from normal term, preterm, and IUGR placentas (immunoblotting). GLUT 1, but not GLUT 3, protein was abundantly present in syncytiotrophoblast membranes. MVM had approximately 3-fold higher GLUT 1 density than BM at term. MVM GLUT 1 density was maintained from 16 weeks of gestation to term. BM GLUT 1 density increased 2-fold in late second trimester and remained unaltered thereafter to term. GLUT 1 densities in term and preterm IUGR placentas were unaltered. Net D-glucose uptake rates corresponded to the GLUT 1 densities. These data suggest that 1) GLUT 1 is the main glucose transporter protein isoform in human syncytiotrophoblast; 2) the glucose transport capacity for MVM is potentially approximately 20-fold higher than that of BM; 3) GLUT 1 densities may be regulated independently in MVM and BM; 4) the increase in surface area and the maintenance of a high GLUT 1 density can account for the increase in placental glucose transport in the latter part of pregnancy; and 5) fetal hypoglycemia in IUGR is not due to a decrease in placental glucose transporter density.
Plasmodium berghei and Plasmodium knowlesi: Serum binding to sporozoites

Abstract Plasmodium berghei salivary gland and oocyst sporozoites were examined with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-lectins to determine if sporozoites had carbohydrate-containing molecules on their surfaces. None of the eight fluorescein isothiocyanate-lectins bound to the sporozoites. However, incubation of sporozoites in mouse serum permitted subsequent binding of concanavalin A and Ricinus communis agglutinin I. In general, serum binding occurred when sporozoites were incubated in serum from hosts susceptible to sporozoite infection. Sporozoites of the rodent parasite, P. berghei, tended to bind rodent but not primate serum, while sporozoites of the monkey parasite, Plasmodium knowlesi, tended to bind primate but not rodent serum. The serum component(s) that bound to sporozoites were concentrated considerably by ammonium sulfate precipitation followed by concanavalin A—Sepharose affinity chromatography.
Spatial Patterns Emphasize the Importance of Coastal Zones as Nursery Areas for Larval Walleye in Western Lake Erie

Abstract Lake Erie walleye Sander vitreus exhibits significant interannual variability in year-class strength. Recent research revealed the importance of larval growth and survival rates in determining walleye year-class strength in western Lake Erie, indicating that spatial and temporal overlap of larvae with good habitat conditions (e.g., abundant prey, warm waters) promoted walleye growth and survival. To assess the spatial overlap between walleye larvae and habitat parameters (water depth, temperature, water clarity, prey density) in western Lake Erie, we evaluated the spatial distribution of walleye larvae and these habitat parameters with intensive sampling at 30 to 36 sites during spring 1994–1999. We analyzed spatial relationships among pelagic walleye larvae and various habitat attributes using a geographic information system and principal components analysis. Larval walleye density was consistently highest at nearshore sites during all years and showed a high degree of spatial overlap with high ichthyoplankton density, and warm water temperatures. Larval walleye density was negatively associated with water depth and water clarity. Two principal components represented 79.6% of the total variability in site attributes. Principle components analysis supported our spatial analysis by graphically separating sites into distinct groups based on larval walleye density and habitat attributes. These analyses indicated that similar relationships between larval distribution and habitat attributes occur each year, emphasizing the importance of nearshore coastal zones as nursery areas for walleye.
Total inclusive neutron cross sections and multiplicities in nucleus-nucleus collisions at intermediate energies

The total integrated inclusive cross section, sigma(T>T/sub 0/), for the emission of neutrons above an energy T/sub 0/ by neon ions with an average energy of 337 MeV per nucleon reacting in targets of uranium, copper, aluminum, and carbon is described by sigma-bar/sub NN/(R-bar/sub G//r/sub o/)/sup( alphaT/o). Here sigma-bar/sub NN/ is the isospin-averaged nucleon-nucleon cross section evaluated at an energy equal to the bombarding energy per nucleon, and R-bar/sub G/ is the arithmetic mean value of the radii of the projectile and the target measured in units of the radius parameter r/sub 0/ ( = 1.2 fm). In the limit T/sub 0/ = 0, the exponent ..cap alpha..(T/sub 0/) = 5. A useful formula is derived for calculating mean neutron multiplicities in nucleus-nucleus collisions.
Time-lapse confocal imaging of calcium dynamics in starfish embryos

During fertilization and cleavage, embryos undergo transient rises in their intracellular free calcium levels that are postulated to provide essential signals enabling normal development to proceed. In order to analyze the spatiotemporal patterns and possible biological significance of these calcium transients, time-lapse confocal microscopy was used to monitor starfish embryos during normal development and following experimental manipulations that disrupted cleavage and/or the release of calcium ions from internal stores in the embryo. For such analyses, oocytes were co-injected with dextran-conjugated forms of the calcium-sensitive fluorochrome calcium green (CG) and the calcium-insensitive dye rhodamine (Rh) for dual-channel confocal ratioing. Based on CG/Rh ratioed images obtained every 15 sec for the first few hours of development, no prominent calcium spikes were typically evident at the onset of the first cell cycle as hormone-treated oocytes resumed maturation and underwent germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD). Subsequently, fertilizations of post-GVBD oocytes caused a single prolonged calcium wave that reached relatively uniform amplitudes throughout the ooplasm. Within 90 min after fertilization, most starfish zygotes began to display clusters of repetitive calcium oscillations that typically-but not invariably-preceded nuclear envelope breakdown, anaphase onset, and the formation of the first cleavage furrow. Rapidly decaying calcium oscillations continued through at least the first five cleavages in specimens that developed into normal blastulae, and unlike fertilization-induced calcium waves, such spikes tended to be more pronounced in the cortical cytoplasm during early cleavages. Thus, three different types of calcium dynamics--no marked transients, a single nonoscillating wave, and repetitive oscillations--were observed as normally developing starfish underwent prefertilization maturation, fertilization, and cleavage, respectively, suggesting that the spatiotemporal patterns of calcium spiking can change during starfish early development. In specimens microinjected with colchicine, calcium transients were also visible in the absence of cell divisions, indicating that calcium spiking can be uncoupled from cytokinesis. To assess whether calcium fluxes are required for normal development, oocytes were also treated with heparin to block calcium release mediated by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3). Injections of heparin, but not the control molecule de-N-sulfated heparin, caused abnormal fertilization-induced calcium dynamics in a dose-dependent fashion and typically abolished marked postfertilization calcium oscillations and normal cleavage. Based on correlative studies using caged IP3, heparin interfered with IP3-mediated calcium release, suggesting that such release is involved in the production of the free calcium elevations that occur in normally developing starfish embryos.
The Box C/D motif directs snoRNA 5′-cap hypermethylation

The 5′-cap structure of most spliceosomal small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) and certain small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) undergoes hypermethylation from a 7-methylguanosine to a 2,2,7-trimethylguanosine structure. 5′-Cap hypermethylation of snRNAs is dependent upon a conserved sequence element known as the Sm site common to most snRNAs. Here we have performed a mutational analysis of U3 and U14 to determine the cis-acting sequences required for 5′-cap hypermethylation of Box C/D snoRNAs. We have found that both the conserved sequence elements Box C (termed C′ in U3) and Box D are necessary for cap hypermethylation. Furthermore, the terminal stem structure that is formed by sequences that flank Box C (C′ in U3) and Box D is also required. However, mutation of other conserved sequences has no effect on hypermethylation of the cap. Finally, the analysis of fragments of U3 and U14 RNAs indicates that the Box C/D motif, including Box C (C′ in U3), Box D and the terminal stem, is capable of directing cap hypermethylation. Thus, the Box C/D motif, which is important for snoRNA processing, stability, nuclear retention, protein binding, nucleolar localization and function, is also necessary and sufficient for cap hypermethylation of these RNAs.
Applying statistical machine learning to multicore voltage & frequency scaling

Dynamic Voltage/Frequency Scaling (DVFS) is a useful tool for improving system energy efficiency, especially in multi-core chips where energy is more of a limiting factor. Per-core DVFS, where cores can independently scale their voltages and frequencies, is particularly effective. We present a DVFS policy using machine learning, which learns the best frequency choices for a machine as a decision tree.Machine learning is used to predict the frequency which will minimize the expected energy per user-instruction (epui) or energy per (user-instruction)2 (epui2). While each core independently sets its frequency and voltage, a core is sensitive to other cores' frequency settings. Also, we examine the viability of using only partial training to train our policy, rather than full profiling for each program.We evaluate our policy on a 16-core machine running multiprogrammed, multithreaded benchmarks from the PARSEC benchmark suite against a baseline fixed frequency as well as a recently-proposed greedy policy. For 1ms DVFS intervals, our technique improves system epui2 by 14.4% over the baseline no-DVFS policy and 11.3% on average over the greedy policy.
Neurofibromatosis type 1: Pathologic substrate of high-signal-intensity foci in the brain

PURPOSE: To investigate a correlation between pathologic and radiologic findings with regard to the characteristic high-signal-intensity foci seen on long repetition time (TR) magnetic resonance (MR) images of the brain in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three girls with NF-1 and abnormal hyperintensities on long TR images of the brain underwent pathologic examination at autopsy. RESULTS: Two 10-year-old girls had classic, focal hyperintensities in the internal capsules and globus pallidus regions, which have been associated with NF-1. The third patient, a neonate, had diffuse hyperintensity of the supratentorial and infratentorial white matter on T2-weighted MR images. Findings at histopathologic examination revealed spongiotic change in the tissue sections that correspond to the high-signal-intensity foci demonstrated on T2-weighted images. CONCLUSION: Hyperintense foci seen on T2-weighted MR images appear to correspond to pathologic findings of areas of vacuolar or...
Sinus Disease in Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common inherited disease of Caucasians. Sinus disease affects 90 % of patients with CF making it a common indication for otolaryngology referral and surgical intervention. Aggressive medical management for sinus disease in CF may help delay or avoid surgical intervention and improve patient outcomes. Judicious use of antimicrobials in the management of sinus disease is necessary to avoid development of multi-drug resistant organisms and treat refractory disease. When surgery is required, a variety of surgical techniques may be employed depending on the patient’s anatomy and other concomitant sinonasal issues such as nasal polyps.
Evidence for the presence of separate mechanisms regulating potassium and sodium distribution in Ulva lactuca.

1. The methods employed in these and preceding (25–27) studies were shown to allow analysis of true cellular sodium and potassium concentrations. 2. The rate of reaccumulation of potassium by potassium-deficient cells is independent of the presence or absence of sodium in the external medium. 3. Phenylurethane (10–3 M), a photosynthetic and metabolic inhibitor, causes a marked progressive loss of potassium and gain of sodium, both of which changes are completely reversible on transferring the samples to running sea water. 4. Iodoacetate, while not effective in causing potassium and sodium shifts in the light, effects a loss of potassium and a gain of sodium in the light in the presence of phenylurethane. 5. Arsenate (5 x 10–3 M) completely protects Ulva against the potassium loss usually observed with iodoacetate in the dark while it affords no protection against the sodium influx under the same conditions. Arsenate given after 18 to 20 hours in iodoacetate gives significant protection against potassium loss in the dark, and allows a slight net reaccumulation of potassium in the light. Arsenate in the dark after iodoacetate affords no protection against the sodium uptake caused by iodoacetate in the dark, while in the light under the same conditions sodium is rapidly secreted to the control level within a few hours. This resecretion of sodium is thought to be primarily an effect of light, the presence of arsenate being incidental. 6. The "decoupling agent" 4,6-dinitro- o -cresol causes a marked progressive increase in cellular sodium and a drop in cellular potassium, though the kinetics of these two movements are distinctly different from each other. 7. Pyruvate (50 mg. per cent) given with iodoacetate (2 x 10–3 M) for 5 hours in the dark completely prevents the sodium increase caused by iodoacetate, while affording less protection against the potassium loss. Phosphoglycerate, on the other hand, offers more protection against potassium loss, and essentially none against the sodium gain. 8. ATP added in small amounts at short intervals to samples maintained in 10–3 M iodoacetate in the dark affords significant protection against the potassium loss observed in iodoacetate. Cellular sodium is somewhat higher in the ATP-iodoacetate samples than in the iodoacetate samples. 9. In the discussion of the data presented two major points are emphasized: (1) the close correlation between cellular metabolism and normal cation control; (2) two mechanisms must be operative in cation regulation in this organism: one for moving potassium inwards and the other for transporting sodium outwards. These mechanisms are independent of each other.
Late acute, delayed neurotoxic and cholinergic effects of S,S,S-tributyl phosphorotrithioite (Merphos) in hens.

Abstract This study reports three toxicologic effects of S,S,S -tributyl phosphorotrithioite (merphos) in hens: acute cholinergic, late acute, or delayed neurotoxic. These effects can be differentiated by route of administration, dosage required, severity and reversibility of clinical signs, and production of pathologic lesions of the nervous system. Oral administration of a single dose (200 to 2000 mg/kg) of merphos caused weak cholinergic effects, which were rapidly relieved by atropine sulfate treatment. Four days after start of administration of large daily doses (80 mg/kg/day) a late acute effect was observed. The clinical signs of the late acute effects were identical to those produced by n -butyl mercaptan ( n BM), a hydrolytic product of merphos, and were not relieved by atropine sulfate. The late acute effect overlapped with the clinical signs of delayed neurotoxicity. Late acute toxicity was not seen with topical application of single or daily doses of merphos; rather, delayed neurotoxicity was consistently produced. Degeneration of the anterior columns in the spinal cord was identical to that found in tri- o -cresyl phosphate-treated hens and was the most consistent histopathologic change. Topical administration of merphos caused a more prolonged inhibition of plasma butyrylcholinesterase activity than the orally administered compound. Orally administered merphos was rapidly metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract directly to n BM or following its oxidation to S,S,S -tributyl phosphorotrithioate. n BM apparently caused the late acute toxic effect. Topically administered merphos, which was not metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract, caused delayed neurotoxicity but did not produce a late acute effect. The present results demonstrate that evaluation of the neurotoxic effect of organophosphorus esters should include investigation with both oral and topical application.
The oral bioavailability, pharmacokinetics and biotransformation of 9-hydroxybenzo[a]pyrene in the American lobster, Homarus americanus

Abstract The pharmacokinetics of [3H]-9-hydroxy-benzo[a]pyrene (9-OH-BaP) were examined after single intrapericardial (IV) or oral doses to intermolt American lobsters, Homarus americanus. A three-compartment model best described the disposition of parent 9-OH-BaP in the hemolymph after IV administration. The major metabolite found in hemolymph 8 h after administration, BaP 9-sulfate, reached its peak concentration at one day after the dose. BaP 9-sulfate was eliminated from hemolymph more rapidly than 9-OH-BaP or BaP9-β-D-glucoside, which were present in all hemolymph samples at all times. The oral bioavailability (F) for 9-OH-BaP, estimated from the area under concentration-time curve (AUC), ranged from 3.4 to 14.3%. In all treated lobsters,
A dynamic model of larval Mexican bean beetle survival as a function of body water balance

. This paper presents evidence of the relationship between survival and body water content in the Mexican bean beetle, Epilachna varivestis Mulsant (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). Results of a simulation model for dynamically describing water balance and survival are compared with experimental data for the Mexican bean beetle feeding on both lima bean and soybean under different variable temperature and moisture regimes.
SELF-SIMILAR SOLUTIONS OF TWO-DIMENSIONAL CONSERVATION LAWS

Self-similar reduction of an important class of two-dimensional conservation laws leads to boundary value problems for equations which change type. We have established a method for solving free boundary problems for quasilinear degenerate elliptic equations which arise when shocks interact with the subsonic (nonhyperbolic) part of the solution. This paper summarizes the principal features of the method. A preliminary version of these notes formed the basis of a series of three lectures at the Newton Institute in April, 2003. They are a report of research carried out jointly with Suncica Canic, Eun Heui Kim and Gray Lieberman.
Tissue-specific in vivo protein-DNA interactions at the promoter region of the Xenopus 63 kDa keratin gene during metamorphosis

Abstract The Xenopus 63 kDa keratin gene is developmentally regulated and is expressed only in the epidermis. Full activation of the 63 kDa keratin gene requires two regulatory steps, the first independent and the second dependent on the thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3). Sequence analysis of a genomic clone of the 63 kDa keratin gene identified potential AP2 and SP1 binding sites upstream of the transcription initiation site. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays using purified or enriched proteins, as well as HeLa nuclear extract in conjunction with AP2- and SP1-specific antibodies, have been used to demonstrate that human AP2 and SP1 bind elements upstream of the transcription initiation site. In vivo footprinting with ligation mediated PCR revealed several footprints, within 350 bp upstream of the transcription initiation site, including those at the AP2 and SP1 sites, that are unique to epidermal cells which express the keratin gene. These footprints were absent in blood cells and XL177 cells which do not express the gene. Comparison of footprints between cells which express the 63 kDa keratin gene at low or high levels showed that the same binding sites are occupied, indicating that these sites are required for basal as well as T3-induced expression of the 63 kDa keratin gene.
Whatever happened to stereotactic surgery

Abstract The field of human stereotactic surgery began when Spiegel and Wycis introduced their stereoencephalotome in 1947, reached its epitome in the early 1960s, and declined sharply after the introduction of L-dopa in 1968. When the development of implantable stimulators provided an abrupt expansion of techniques in nonstereotactic functional neurosurgery, the field became "stereotactic and functional neurosurgery." The marriage of stereotactic surgery with computed tomography has reawakened the use of stereotactic surgery and brought it closer to general neurosurgery than ever before. Stereotactic and functional neurosurgery as a subspecialty has expanded rapidly and will continue to expand at an unprecedented rate, with significant changes reflecting the continuing advances in technology begun 15 years ago. It is becoming an increasingly important part of the field of neurosurgery and has extended its influence in many new clinical areas previously outside the realm of stereotaxis.
Dividing a Territory Among Several Facilities

We consider the problem of dividing a geographic region into subregions so as to minimize the maximum workload of a collection of facilities over that region. We assume that the cost of servicing a demand point is a monomial function of the distance to its assigned facility and that demand points follow a continuous probability density. We show that, when our objective is to minimize the maximum workload of all facilities, the optimal partition consists of a collection of circular arcs that are induced by a multiplicatively weighted Voronoi diagram. When we require that all subregions have equal area, the optimal partition consists of a collection of hyperbolic or quartic curves. We show that, for both problems, the dual variables correspond to “prices” for a facility to serve a demand point, and our objective is to determine a set of prices such that the entire region is “purchased” by the facilities, i.e., that the market clears. This allows us to solve the partitioning problem quickly without discretizing the service region.
Respiration-dependent uptake and extrusion of Mg2+ by isolated heart mitochondria

It has been known for some time that isolated heart mitochondria can both take up and extrude Mg2+ by respiration-dependent, uncoupler-sensitive processes. A re-examination of these reactions reveals that the respiration-dependent uptake of Mg2+ can be quite rapid and efficient and is apparently preceded by a passive binding to the inner membrane. The rate of Mg2+ uptake can exceed 30 ng ion/min/mg protein at an efficiency of about 1 ng ion Mg2+ accumulated per ng atom O2 consumed. Passive binding and respiration-dependent accumulation of Mg2+ are strongly inhibited by K+ and other monovalent cations and the uptake reaction is further decreased by the presence of ATP or ADP. Under conditions approaching those faced by mitochondria in situ (state 3 respiration in a KCl medium) the rate of Mg2+ uptake, as estimated from 28Mg2+ distribution, is no more than 0.25 ng ion/min/mg. When heart mitochondria are suspended in a Mg2+-free medium, a slow, respiration-dependent Mg2+ efflux is seen. This reaction is quite insensitive to external K+ and otherwise shows an inhibitor profile markedly different from that of the Mg2+ accumulation reaction. Neither the uptake nor the loss of Mg2+ is inhibited by ruthenium red or diltiazem. These reactions therefore appear unrelated to those involved in the uptake and release of Ca2+. It is concluded that heart mitochondria have separate pathways available for Mg2+ uptake and release.
Revis(it)ing nuclear history: narrative conflict at the bradbury science museum ∗

Nuclear criticism theorizes culture as the site of struggle between ideological narratives seeking authority over the meaning of nuclear symbols. Following the end of the cold war, various groups have conducted this struggle through public discourse about U.S. nuclear weapons organizations. This paper examines symbolic conflict over the history and future of one such organization, the Los Alamos National Laboratory. This conflict was conducted between pro-nuclear Laboratory officials and employees of its Bradbury Science Museum, and local anti-nuclear activists. The conflict centered around the activists' construction of an alternative exhibit that was placed in the Museum, and that challenged its dominant narrative of nuclear history. Analysis reveals that the identities and activities of these two groups can be distinguished by three sets of opposing constructs: nuclearism/pacifism; monologue/dialogue, and fact/narrative. These frames guided the groups' interpretive practices, and heuristically condense...
Review of the bylaws changes from the Society of Urologic Oncology 2009.

During the April 2009 AUA meeting in Chicago, the Society of Urologic Oncology approved several bylaws changes that were approved by the membership at the Business Luncheon. The most substantive of these changes were the clarification of Candidate Membership and the creation of the OKAT Committee as a standing committee. Other minor changes included the outlining of terms of various positions on the Executive Committee. A copy of the current bylaws can be found at http://www.societyofurologiconcology.org/. In addition, there are several changes to the bylaws, which have been proposed and are included below in bold. The creation of the Young Urologic Oncology Committee, with a representative from the YUO serving on the Executive Board is the greatest change to the bylaws. Also, the dissolution of the Long Range Planning Committee, a committee created in the infancy of the SUO, represents the maturity of the SUO and, thus, the obsolescence of this committee. These changes will be further discussed at the Executive Board Meeting of the SUO and circulated to all members at the Winter Meeting. They will be considered for approval at the AUA meeting in San Francisco in 2010. Any member who has questions regarding the current bylaws or wishes to propose a change to the bylaws is encouraged to contact the incoming bylaws chairman.
Measurement of intracellular free calcium in monkey kidney cells with aequorin

A method has been developed for the measurement of intracellular free calcium in mammalian cells. The calcium-sensitive photoprotein aequorin can be incorporated into isolated cells by hypo-osmotic treatment without altering the cell viability, permeability, or metabolism. Intracellular calcium activity (Cai2+) was monitored in a perfusion system. In monkey kidney cells (LLC-MK2), Cai2+ is approximately 57 nanomoles per liter. Changes in Cai2+ with time can also be followed: exposure of the cells to anaerobiosis or the calcium ionophore A23187 reversibly increases Cai2+. The method has also been successfully tested in rat hepatocytes.
Commentary on "marital happiness and sleep disturbances in a multi-ethnic sample of middle-aged women".

I was happy to see this article and to be asked to offer a commentary. Recognizing the effects on sleep of the reality of shared sleeping is long overdue in our field. Just how people sleep at home...
Servo-Analysis and Stablization of Xenon Oscillations in Large Thermal Nuclear Reactor Power Plants

A two-point coupled core reactor kinetics model (Baldwin's model) is used to derive formulae which predict the period and damping factor of the xenon oscillations for a thermal reactor core in terms of the xenon and iodine kinetics parameters and the core parameters and coupling coefficient. The damping factor is a measure of the core stability with respect to the xenon oscillations. The dependence of the core coupling coefficient as a function of the square of the ratio of the core migration length to the core dimension is derived. Calculations are made using PWR core parameters which show that the stability with respect to the xenon oscillations is reduced by increased power density, increased core size, and decreased power reactivity feedback. The periods and damping factors predicted are within the range observed in PWR xenon oscillation experiments. A servo-analysis of the xenon oscillations is made using frequency response techniques. The stability margins are computed, and servo-analysis techniques are utilized in synthesizing a feedback control system to increase the xenon stability margins and effectively damp the xenon oscillations. A practical system for accomplishing this is proposed.
The relative effects of national stereotype and advertising information on the selection of a service provider: an empirical study

Asks whether service provider nationality significantly influences consumer decision making and, if so, whether the influence of national stereotype is moderated by the presence of additional information, such as professional credentials or service availability, or by the consumer′s nationality. Identifies a significant three‐way interaction effect involving provider nationality, supplemental advertising information and consumer nationality.
A simple, inexpensive device for nucleic acid amplification without electricity-toward instrument-free molecular diagnostics in low-resource settings.

Background Molecular assays targeted to nucleic acid (NA) markers are becoming increasingly important to medical diagnostics. However, these are typically confined to wealthy, developed countries; or, to the national reference laboratories of developing-world countries. There are many infectious diseases that are endemic in low-resource settings (LRS) where the lack of simple, instrument-free, NA diagnostic tests is a critical barrier to timely treatment. One of the primary barriers to the practicality and availability of NA assays in LRS has been the complexity and power requirements of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) instrumentation (another is sample preparation). Methodology/Principal Findings In this article, we investigate the hypothesis that an electricity-free heater based on exothermic chemical reactions and engineered phase change materials can successfully incubate isothermal NA amplification assays. We assess the heater's equivalence to commercially available PCR instruments through the characterization of the temperature profiles produced, and a minimal method comparison. Versions of the prototype for several different isothermal techniques are presented. Conclusions/Significance We demonstrate that an electricity-free heater based on exothermic chemical reactions and engineered phase change materials can successfully incubate isothermal NA amplification assays, and that the results of those assays are not significantly different from ones incubated in parallel in commercially available PCR instruments. These results clearly suggest the potential of the non-instrumented nucleic acid amplification (NINA) heater for molecular diagnostics in LRS. When combined with other innovations in development that eliminate power requirements for sample preparation, cold reagent storage, and readout, the NINA heater will comprise part of a kit that should enable electricity-free NA testing for many important analytes.
Relationship among accommodation, focus, and resolution with optical instruments.

We studied instrument myopia as an overall effect consisting of interactions among the observer’s accommodation and resolution during instrument viewing and the manner in which the instrument is focused. Previous investigations of instrument myopia generally have been limited to only one of these variables. Our results are consistent with the dark-focus-bias theory of accommodation, which holds that accommodation tends to seek its resting point, or dark focus, whether or not the observer is viewing through an optical instrument. The amount of accommodation measured during instrument viewing was found to be dependent on instrument design features that modulate the bias of accommodation for the dark focus.
BEYOND THE HORIZON: CHRONOSCHISMS AND HISTORICAL DISTANCE

Historical distance presents more complex issues than simply evaluating the meaning of the temporal span between a point in the past and some moment present to an observer. The ordinary historical difference, which is horizontal in the sense that it evokes the notion of hermeneutic horizons, fragments uncontrollably when examined closely, resulting in what might be called a “chronoschism.” The experience of encountering a historical painting by Botticelli provides an example of this fragmentation. This complication of historical distance reminds us also of quite different sorts of distance, including the depths of endless regression, and the elevation of the historical sublime. These various forms of historical distance present a challenge to the horizontal character of normal historical practice.
Toward a comprehensive and systematic methylome signature in colorectal cancers

CpG Island Methylator Phenotype (CIMP) is one of the underlying mechanisms in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to define a methylome signature in CRC through a methylation microarray analysis and a compilation of promising CIMP markers from the literature. Illumina HumanMethylation27 (IHM27) array data was generated and analyzed based on statistical differences in methylation data (1st approach) or based on overall differences in methylation percentages using lower 95% CI (2nd approach). Pyrosequencing was performed for the validation of nine genes. A meta-analysis was used to identify CIMP and non-CIMP markers that were hypermethylated in CRC but did not yet make it to the CIMP genes’ list. Our 1st approach for array data analysis demonstrated the limitations in selecting genes for further validation, highlighting the need for the 2nd bioinformatics approach to adequately select genes with differential aberrant methylation. A more comprehensive list, which included non-CIMP genes, such as APC, EVL, CD109, PTEN, TWIST1, DCC, PTPRD, SFRP1, ICAM5, RASSF1A, EYA4, 30ST2, LAMA1, KCNQ5, ADHEF1, and TFPI2, was established. Array data are useful to categorize and cluster colonic lesions based on their global methylation profiles; however, its usefulness in identifying robust methylation markers is limited and rely on the data analysis method. We have identified 16 non-CIMP-panel genes for which we provide rationale for inclusion in a more comprehensive characterization of CIMP+ CRCs. The identification of a definitive list for methylome specific genes in CRC will contribute to better clinical management of CRC patients.
Structure and properties of a new κ-phase organic metal: (BEDT-TTF)2Cu2(CN)3

Abstract The electro-synthesis, structure and conductivity of a new κ-phase organic metal (BEDT-TTF)2Cu2(CN)3 are described [BEDT-TTF = bis(ethylenedithio)tetrathiafulvalene C10H8S8]. Partially oxidized BEDT-TTF cations form a structure similar to that found in the κ-phase superconductors, while Cu2(CN)3−1 anions form infinite two-dimensional sheets which alternate with layers of BEDT-TTF cations along the crystallographic a axis. The morphology and conductivity of the crystals are dependent on the electrocrystallization conditions. Samples prepared under certain conditions show a semiconductor-to-metal transition in the 10–30K range, while others have an immeasurably large resistance in this temperature range, even though the room-temperature crystal structures are identical, and EDX shows all samples to have the same composition. However, application of a thin layer of epoxy induces the transition in all samples, and enhances the low-temperature conductivity of some samples by a factor of about 100. Low temperature crystallographic measurements of the unit cell change on cooling indicate the epoxy-coating to reduce the thermal contraction of the samples, in particular in the direction of the crystallographic a-axis.
Carbon Tunneling from a Single Quantum State

We observed ring expansion of 1-methylcyclobutylfluorocarbene at 8 kelvin, a reaction that involves carbon tunneling. The measured rate constants were 4.0 × 10 −6 per second in nitrogen and 4 × 10 −5 per second in argon. Calculations indicated that at this temperature the reaction proceeds from a single quantum state of the reactant so that the computed rate constant has achieved a temperature-independent limit. According to calculations, the tunneling contribution to the rate is 152 orders of magnitude greater than the contribution from passage over the barrier. We discuss environmental effects of the solid-state inert-gas matrix on the reaction rate.
The value of mediastinoscopy in the management of thoracic disease

Background Mediastinoscopy is a commonly used method in the diagnostic evaluation of diseases of the chest. Since its introduction by Carlens in 1959, it has been established as one of the gold standard techniques for the evaluation of thoracic disease, especially lung cancer. Recent reports indicate that this method is underutilized in the community practice.
Human platelet α-adrenergic receptors and responses during pregnancy: No change except that with differing hematocrit☆

Abstract The possibility that platelet aggregation is altered during pregnancy is controversial. We tested for alterations of α-adrenergic receptor-induced platelet function during pregnancy compared to that in the early phase of the menstrual cycle. We found no change in α-adrenergic receptor concentration or in affinity of the receptor for epinephrine. The potency and sensitivity of epinephrine to inhibit adenylate cyclase, a response mediated by α 2 -adrenergic receptors, was not different in platelets from the two groups of subjects. The ability of epinephrine to potentiate aggregation by adenosine diphosphate was significantly increased during pregnancy; however, this was an artifact introduced by lower hematocrits during pregnancy that resulted in an increased citrate concentration in the preparations of platelet-rich plasma from these women. The difference was eliminated by normalization of citrate concentration. Thus effects of α-adrenergic receptors on platelet function are not different during pregnancy. It is mandatory to recognize artifactual effects of differing hematocrits on platelet aggregation studied in vitro.
Sickle cell cerebrovascular disease: Usual and unusual findings on MR imaging and MR angiography

This paper demonstrates usual and unusual findings on MR imaging (MRI) including fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), diffusion- and perfusion-weighted image and MR angiography (MRA) in 30 patients with sickle cell cerebrovascular disease. This paper also illustrates the underlying pathophysiology of sickle cell cerebrovascular disease by using the cases with usual and unusual MR findings, including long-time follow-up cases during transfusion therapy. MRI and MRA are useful in defining the basis for stroke and assessing the effects of chronic transfusion therapy.