cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
NIST speaker recognition evaluations 1996-2008

From 1996 through 2008, the NIST Speaker Recognition Evaluations have focused on the task of automatic speaker detection based on recorded segments of spontaneous conversational speech. Earlier evaluations were limited to English language telephone speech. More recent evaluations (2004-2008) have included some conversational telephone speech in multiple languages, with the 2008 evaluation including 24 different languages. These recent evaluations have also explored cross channel effects by including phone conversations recorded over multiple microphone channels, and the 2008 evaluation also examined interview type speech recorded over multiple microphone channels. The considerable progress observed over the period of these evaluations has made the technology potentially useful for detecting individuals of interest in certain applications. Performance capability is measurably affected by a number of situational factors, including the number and duration of the training speech segments available, the durations of the test speech segments available, the language(s) spoken in these segments, and the types and variability of the recording channels involved.
Continuous-Time, Nonlinear Feedback Control of Stable Processes

Nonlinear control laws are presented for stable, single-input single-output processes, whether minimum phase or nonminimum phase. This study addresses the problem of nonlinear control of nonminimum-phase processes by exploiting the connections between model-predictive control and input−output linearization. Continuous-time, long-prediction-horizon, model-predictive control laws with the shortest control horizon are derived. These are approximate, input−output, linearizing control laws with one tunable parameter and, thus, are very easy to tune. Their application and performance are illustrated using numerical simulation of a chemical reactor that exhibits nonminimum-phase behavior.
A semantic mediation framework for architecting federated ubiquitous systems

Despite 20 years of research, ubiquitous systems have yet to become truly ubiquitous. A key challenge is the design for volatility and evolution experienced when those systems are deployed in more than one environment as well as for a substantial time period. The work presented here describes a proposed federated System of Systems (SoS) engineering approach for creating ubiquitous systems based on service-oriented principles. Service orientation is becoming more common for SoS implementation as it supports operational independence, managerial independence, and geographic distribution of constituent systems. However, in a virtual SoS, there is no central management authority and centrally agreed purpose, making interface standardization and integration of capabilities a difficult task. In this paper, we approach this problem by proposing a conceptual ontology-based semantic mediation framework to orchestrate the system engineering activities related to publishing constituent system capabilities during the design stage of the lifecycle, and enable automating capability discovery, selection, and composition at runtime.
Safety and reliability of tattooing colorectal neoplasms prior to laparoscopic resection

Accurate tumor localization is critical to performing minimally invasive colorectal resection. This study reviews the safety and reliability of tattooing colorectal neoplasms prior to laparoscopic resection. We retrospectively reviewed 50 consecutive patients with colorectal neoplasms who underwent endoscopic tattooing prior to laparoscopic resection. Data were obtained from medical charts, endoscopy records, and pathology reports. No complications related to endoscopy or tattooing were incurred. Five neoplasms (10%) were in the ascending colon, five (10%) were in the transverse colon, eight (16%) were in the descending colon, 23 (46%) were in the sigmoid colon, and nine (18%) were in the rectum. Tattoos were visualized intraoperatively and accurately localized the neoplasm in 44 patients (88%). Six patients (12%) did not have tattoos visualized laparoscopically and required intraoperative localization. On average, the pathology specimens in this series had a 15 cm proximal margin, a 12 cm distal margin, and 15 lymph nodes. In the context of laparoscopic colorectal resection, preoperative endoscopic tattooing is a safe and reliable method of tumor localization in most cases. Localizing colon and proximal rectal lesions with tattoos may be preferable to other localization techniques including intraoperative endoscopy.
Global properties of continuous piecewise linear vector fields. Part I: Simplest case in ℝ2

Among non-linear vector fields, the simplest that can be studied are those which are continuous and piecewise linear. Associated with these types of vector fields are partitions of the state space into a finite number of regions. In each region the vector field is linear. On the boundary between regions it is required that the vector field be continuous from both regions in which it is linear. This presentation is devoted to the analysis in two dimensions of the simplest possible types of continuous piecewise linear vector fields, namely linear vector fields possessing only one boundary condition. As a practical concern the analysis will attempt to ask and answer questions raised about the existence of steady state solutions. Since the local theory of fixed points in a linear vector field is sufficient to determine the stability of fixed points in a piecewise linear vector field, most of the steady state behaviour to be studied will be towards limited cycles. the results will present sufficient conditions for the existence, or non-existence as the case may be, of limit cycles. Particular attention will be paid to the domain of attraction whenever possible. With these results qualitative statements may be made for piecewise linear models of many physical systems.
Application of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate Micellar Electrokinetic Chromatography (SDS MEKC) for the Rapid Measurement of Aqueous Phase 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene Metabolites in Anaerobic Sludge: A Comparison with LC/MS

The present study describes the application of sodium dodecyl sulfate micellar electrokinetic chromatography (SDS MEKC) for the fast analysis of TNT biotransformation products in the aqueous phase of anaerobic sludge cultures. SDS MEKC was performed using a Hewlett-Packard HP 3D CE capillary electrophoresis system with photodiode array detection. In a single sample injection the SDS MEKC method detected 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), 2-hydroxylamino-4,6-dinitrotoluene (2-HADNT), 4-hydroxylamino-2,6-dinitrotoluene (4-HADNT), 2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene (2-ADNT), 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene (4-ADNT), 2,4-diaminonitrotoluene (2,4-DANT), 2,6-diaminonitrotoluene (2,6-DANT), and 2,4,6-triaminotoluene (TAT). Analyte peaks were verified using visible/ultraviolet photodiode array spectra from commercial standards and periodic analyses using electrospray ionization liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (ES-LC-MS). A time course study constructed from the SDS MEKC data provided supporting evidence for the stepwise red...
Robot-assisted Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy: Step-by-Step Technique and Comparative Outcomes

Abstract Background Recent evidence supports the use of robotic surgery for the minimally invasive surgical management of adrenal masses. Objective To describe a contemporary step-by-step technique of robotic adrenalectomy (RA), to provide tips and tricks to help ensure a safe and effective implementation of the procedure, and to compare its outcomes with those of laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA). Design, setting, and participants We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of consecutive patients who underwent RA performed by a single surgeon between April 2010 and October 2013. LA cases performed by the same surgeon between January 2004 and May 2010 were considered the control group. Surgical procedure The main steps of our current surgical technique for RA are described in this video tutorial: patient positioning, port placement, and robot docking; exposure of the adrenal gland; identification and control of the adrenal vein; circumferential dissection of the adrenal gland; and specimen retrieval and closure. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis Demographic parameters and main surgical outcomes were assessed. Results and limitations A total of 76 cases (RA: 30; LA: 46) were included in the analysis. Median tumor size on computed tomography (CT) was significantly larger in the LA group (3cm [interquartile range (IQR): 3] vs 4cm [IQR: 3]; p =0.002). A significantly lower median estimated blood loss was recorded for the robotic group (50ml [IQR: 50] vs 100ml [IQR: 288]; p =0.02). The RA group presented five minor complications (16.7%) and one major (Clavien 3b) complication (3.3%), whereas four minor complications (8.7%) and one major (Clavien 3b) complication (2.3%) were observed in the LA group. No significant difference was noted between groups in terms of malignant histology ( p =0.66) and positive margin rate ( p =0.60). Distribution of pheochromocytomas in the LA group was significantly higher than in the RA group (43.5% vs 16.7%; p =0.02). Conclusions The standardization of each surgical step optimizes the RA procedure. The robotic approach can be applied for a wide range of adrenal indications, recapitulating the safety and effectiveness of open surgery and potentially improving the outcomes of standard laparoscopy. Patient summary In this report we detail our surgical technique for robotic removal of adrenal masses. This procedure has been standardized and can be offered to patients, with excellent outcomes.
Effects of intraventricular injections of imipramine and 5-hydroxytryptamine on tonic immobility in chickens

While previous work has shown that peripherally administered serotonin and imipramine attenuate tonic immobility in chickens, in the present study intraventricular application of these compounds served to prolong the reaction. The data were discussed in terms of an inverse relationship between raphe electrical activity and the duration of tonic immobility in chickens.
A test of p-variate normality

We offer an easy-to-use multivariate adaptation of the Lin & Mudholkar (1980) z-test of univariate normality
Papillary thyroid carcinoma in children: risk factors and complications of disease recurrence

Abstract Introduction Optimal treatment of recurrent papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) in children remains controversial. We reviewed our experience with recurrent PTC to better identify children diagnosed with it. Aims The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors, optimal treatment, complications, and prognosis of recurrent PTC in children. Methods This is a retrospective review of all thyroid resections for children aged 18 years or younger who have PTC at a single institution from 1987 to 1999. Results Thirty-six children, 7 boys (19%) and 29 girls (81%), underwent initial cervical exploration for PTC. Lymph node involvement was noted in 25 patients (69%); however, there was no distal disease. An equal number of children underwent subtotal thyroidectomy (n = 18) and total (n = 18) thyroidectomy as their initial operation. Papillary thyroid carcinoma recurrences developed in 17 patients (47%) a median of 7 months (range, 1-43 months) after their initial operation. Recurrence was more common for patients with lymph node involvement ( P P Conclusions Thyroid resection combined with selective use of radioactive iodine ablation is a safe and effective treatment for recurrent PTC in children. The best predictors of this recurrent disease are lymph node involvement and multiple thyroid nodules at presentation.
Mass transfer in AlN crystal growth at high temperatures

Abstract A one-dimensional mass transfer model based on equilibrium sublimation and gas phase diffusion was developed for high-temperature sublimation growth of AlN in an RF heated reactor and validated with growth results. The model predicted the apparent activation energy for growth to be close to the energy of sublimation. Using the model-predicted growth conditions, a 25 mm diameter polycrystalline boule was grown at a rate of 1 mm/h. Growth was performed at short source-to-seed distances (∼10 mm), nitrogen pressure of 600 Torr, nitrogen flow-rate of 100 sccm, and source temperatures ranging from 2000°C to 2400°C. Fast grain size development was achieved in the growth direction. The grown material was transparent and virtually colorless.
The reactions of atomic carbon with butene

Abstract C11 resulting from nuclear transformations has been used to investigate the reactions of free carbon atoms with both cis and trans 2-butene. Studies were made in both gaseous and condensed systems, and moderator techniques were used to distinguish between hot and thermal processes. As in the case of other hydrocarbons, primary reactions appear to be insertion of the carbon into CH and CC bonds. The adducts formed, if not stabilized by rapid removal of their excess internal energy, will then fragment to give either small molecules, or radicals which add to another molecule of 2-butene. Such decomposition is particularly favoured when hot carbon atoms react in the gas phase where collisional de-excitation is slow. Stabilisation of the adduct is maximized when the 2-butene reagent is in a dilute dispersion in a xenon matrix in which thermalization of the carbon atom and de-excitation of the adduct are both efficient. The relative complexity of the 2-butene molecule, which enables it to distribute excitation energy internally, also diminishes fragmentation and promotes stabilization of the adduct. Thus the yield of the fragmentation product normally most prominent, acetylene, becomes very small with 2-butene dispersed in a xenon matrix. Under these conditions, there is also evidence that some cyclic adducts survive sufficiently long to react with a second 2-butene molecule to form spiro compounds.
High temperature and pressure phase‐equilibria in the albite‐water and orthoclase‐water systems

A preliminary report [see 1 of “References” at end of paper] of the phase-equilibria relations for the systems, albite (NaAlSi3O8)-water and orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)-water in the temperature-range 800° to 1,200°C and pressures to 4,000 bars (15-km depth) is presented herein. This work represents the first laboratory-investigation on phase-equilibria of truly rock-forming silicates which include water as a component. In these investigations the homogeneous parts or phases with which we are concerned consist of: (1) A vapor-phase which is essentially water; (2) a liquid phase which is a saturated solution of water in silicate-melt; and (3) solid phase or phases consisting of one or more silicates.
A two-dimensional computer-controlled visual stimulator

A computer-controlled instrument that creates complex two-dimensional patterns on a CRT monitor is described. These patterns are used to elicit visual evoked responses. Patterns are produced on a raster that is rotatable about its center. It is possible to assign to arbitrary regions in the raster any of four independent one-dimensional spatial-temporal functions. For each spatial-temporal function, the experimenter can select an arbitrary spatial profile, the spatial frequency of the profile, the starting phase of the profile, the temporal function, and the depth of modulation.
The AXAF Technology Mirror Assembly Program: An Overview

The manufacture and testing of the Technology Mirror Assembly (TMA), a prototype Wolter I telescope scaled to the dimensions of the innermost element of the High-Resolution Mirror Assembly for the NASA Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF), are reviewed. Consideration is given to the grinding, polishing, coating, and assembly of the zerodur TMA blanks, the TMA mount design, and the test procedures used at the MSFC X-ray Calibration Facility. Test results indicate FWHM resolution less than 0.5 arcsec, but with significant near-field scattering attributed to ripple; further long-lap polishing is suggested.
Does supplementation with calcium alone or in combination with vitamin D reduce the risk of osteoporotic fracture

Does supplementation with calcium alone or in combination with vitamin D reduce the risk of osteoporotic fracture?
Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor subtype, m2: Diverse functional implications of differential synaptic localization

Abstract The muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) molecular subtype, m2, has been postulated to be the presynaptic cholinergic autoreceptor in many brain regions. However, due to a lack of subtype-specific pharmacological agents, conclusive evidence for m2 as an autoreceptor remains elusive. The development of subtype-specific antibodies has enabled extensive characterization of the synaptic localization of the m2 subtype. Specifically, double-labeling immunocytochemistry with m2 antibodies and antibodies to the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), a novel specific marker of cholinergic terminals, in the striatum has allowed the fist direct anatomical evidence of m2 localization in cholinergic terminals. Additionally, other anatomical studies in striatum and the septohippocampal pathway have revealed that this subtype is also expressed presynaptically in non-cholinergic terminals, and is postsynaptically expressed in both cholinergic and non-cholinergic neurons. The implications of these data for understanding the functional roles of this subtype are discussed.
Polyhaloaryl compounds containing phosphorus

Abstract A number of (polyhaloaryl)phosphines, with one, two or three polyhaloaryl groups bound to phosphorus, have been synthesized by the addition of various chlorophosphines to a polyhaloaryllithium compound or Grignard reagent. Oxidation afforded the various phosphine oxides. IR and UV data are given.
Identification of a nonimmunoreactive but highly bioactive form of prolactin in the mouse pituitary by gel electrophoresis

Abstract Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of fresh mouse pituitary extracts in 10% acrylamide reveals three closely situated bands of protein in the area where prolactin usually migrates. The fastest migrating band constitutes only 10–30% of the total, but it is twice as active in the pigeon crop-sac bioassay as the major band and has little or no immunologic cross-reactivity against an antiserum to the major constituent. This newly recognized band may be a hitherto unrecognized molecular variant of prolactin.
Campylobacter jejuni : molecular biology and pathogenesis

Campylobacter jejuni is a foodborne bacterial pathogen that is common in the developed world. However, we know less about its biology and pathogenicity than we do about other less prevalent pathogens. Interest in C. jejuni has increased in recent years as a result of the growing appreciation of its importance as a pathogen and the availability of new model systems and genetic and genomic technologies. C. jejuni establishes persistent, benign infections in chickens and is rapidly cleared by many strains of laboratory mouse, but causes significant inflammation and enteritis in humans. Comparing the different host responses to C. jejuni colonization should increase our understanding of this organism.
Nonvascular Mediastinal Trauma

This article discusses the radiologic and clinical features of nonvascular mediastinal trauma, and focuses on the tracheobronchial tree, the esophagus, and the thoracic duct. Blunt chest and penetrating trauma account for most of the causes of such nonvascular injuries, but iatrogenic and inhalation injuries are other well-known causes. The injury distribution and clinical manifestations are different for each structure. In our combined experience at a level 1 trauma center, the overall prevalence of injury in each organ is low compared with vascular injuries. As such, and given the frequent nonspecific nature of clinical signs and symptoms of nonvascular mediastinal injuries, the diagnosis often is delayed and results in poor treatment outcome.
Passive water management at the cathode of a planar air-breathing proton exchange membrane fuel cell

Water management is a significant challenge in portable polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells and particularly in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells with air-breathing cathodes. Liquid water condensation and accumulation at the cathode surface is unavoidable in a passive design operated over a wide range of ambient and load conditions. Excessive flooding or dry out of the open cathode can lead to a dramatic reduction of fuel cell power. We report a water management design based on a hydrophilic and electrically conductive wick. A prototype air-breathing fuel cell with the proposed water management design successfully operated under severe flooding conditions, ambient temperature 10 ◦ C and relative humidity of 80%, for up to 6 h with no observable cathode flooding or loss of performance.
Sampling from Gaussian graphical models using subgraph perturbations

The problem of efficiently drawing samples from a Gaussian graphical model or Gaussian Markov random field is studied. We introduce the subgraph perturbation sampling algorithm, which makes use of any pre-existing tractable inference algorithm for a subgraph by perturbing this algorithm so as to yield asymptotically exact samples for the intended distribution. The subgraph can have any structure for which efficient inference algorithms exist: for example, tree-structured, low tree-width, or having a small feedback vertex set. The experimental results demonstrate that this subgraph perturbation algorithm efficiently yields accurate samples for many graph topologies.
Selling The Continuing Story Of Peyton Place: Negotiating The Content Of The Primetime Serial

In network continuity acceptance reports from 1959, an editor casually referenced the best-selling Grace Metalious novel Peyton Place, claiming that although Hollywood could adapt the basic storyli...
Relationship of blood energy substrates and standard metabolic rate in several amphibian species

Abstract 1. 1. Standard metabolic rates, blood glucose, plasma free fatty acid and plasma alpha-amino acid concentrations were determined in 8 different amphibian species. 2. 2. No correlations were seen between standard metabolic rate and the blood energy substrates, while body weight correlated negatively with metabolic rate. 3. 3. The significance of these findings is discussed in relation to obligate tissue utilization of glucose.
A framework of radio channel allocation strategy for WLANs with multimedia traffic support

For IEEE 802.11 wireless LANs (WLAN) with multiple access points (AP), it is critical to allocate the limited number of radio channels dynamically and efficiently. This paper proposes a new framework for radio channel allocation (RCA) strategy for WLANs to support multimedia traffic. Two techniques are introduced for this purpose: service differentiation in the MAC layer, and link adaptation in the physical layer. First, we formulate the RCA as a min-max optimization problem regarding channel utilization with constraints of transmitting power and data rates. Second, we derive an expression to evaluate the channel utilization, which incorporates the condition of a wireless channel, such as signal-to-noise (SNR) ratio and transmitting power, in addition to the transmitting probability of a station. It also incorporates the differentiations among the stations within an AP on behalf the traffic flows carried by the links between a station and its AP. Third, we propose a new RCA algorithm that considers both link adaptation and service differentiation mechanisms, which have not been considered by the existing RCA schemes. Simulation results have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed strategy.
Double-Diffusive Convection in Traveling Waves in the Iodate-Sulfite System Explained

Keresztessy et al. investigated traveling fronts of the oxidation of sulfite by iodate and determined that the isothermal density changes (Δρc) and enthalpy were both negative. According to the Poj...
Real-Time Probing of Membrane Transport in Living Microbial Cells Using Single Nanoparticle Optics and Living Cell Imaging†

Membrane transport plays a leading role in a wide spectrum of cellular and subcellular pathways, including multidrug resistance (MDR), cellular signaling, and cell-cell communication. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is renowned for its intriguing membrane transport mechanisms, such as the interplay of membrane permeability and extrusion machinery, leading to selective accumulation of specific intracellular substances and MDR. Despite extensive studies, the mechanisms of membrane transport in living microbial cells remain incompletely understood. In this study, we directly measure real-time change of membrane permeability and pore sizes of P. aeruginosa at the nanometer scale using the intrinsic color index (surface plasmon resonance spectra) of silver (Ag) nanoparticles as the nanometer size index probes. The results show that Ag nanoparticles with sizes ranging up to 80 nm are accumulated in living microbial cells, demonstrating that these Ag nanoparticles transport through the inner and outer membrane of the cells. In addition, a greater number of larger intracellular Ag nanoparticles are observed in the cells as chloramphenicol concentration increases, suggesting that chloramphenicol increases membrane permeability and porosity. Furthermore, studies of mutants (nalB-1 and DeltaABM) show that the accumulation rate of intracellular Ag nanoparticles depends on the expression level of the extrusion pump (MexAB-OprM), suggesting that the extrusion pump plays an important role in controlling the accumulation of Ag nanoparticles in living cells. Moreover, the accumulation kinetics measured by Ag nanoparticles are similar to those measured using a small fluorescent molecule (EtBr), eliminating the possibility of steric and size effects of Ag nanoparticle probes. Susceptibility measurements also suggest that a low concentration of Ag nanoparticles (1.3 pM) does not create significant toxicity for the cells, further validating that single Ag nanoparticles (1.3 pM) can be used as biocompatible nanoprobes for the study of membrane transport kinetics in living microbial cells.
Prevalence and Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome in Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes

Background:The incidence of obesity and type 2 diabetes among adolescents has risen dramatically in recent years, and it is likely that many of these adolescents also have metabolic syndrome.Objective:To investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the patient population enrolled in a children's hospital type 2 diabetes clinic and to describe baseline pharmacologic treatment and adherence patterns.Methods:In this retrospective cohort study, the medical charts of 52 adolescents were reviewed. A data collection instrument was used to collect demographic data, laboratory values, medication lists, and documented adherence patterns from the patient's initial clinic visit. Data collected were used to identify patients with metabolic syndrome. Data were entered into a database and analyzed using SPSS 13.0.Results:Data were collected for 52 patients; of these, 40 (76.9%) had characteristics of metabolic syndrome meeting 3 or more of the 5 criteria, although only 8 (15.4%) were diagnosed with the metabolic ...
A D-optimal design approach to robust design under constraints: a new Design for Six Sigma tool

Due to the success of Six Sigma, its methodology quickly spread backwards through the manufacturing chain into the design phase, which became known as Design for Six Sigma. One of the most well-known tools of Design for Six Sigma is robust design, which is a powerful and cost-effective quality improvement methodology. Although several approaches to robust design have been proposed in the literature, little attention has been given to its use when experiments are subject to constraints. It is often the case that today's complex manufacturing processes exhibit non-standard experimental characteristics. When such situations arise, experimental design techniques traditionally used in robust design may no longer be appropriate, and a logical alternative is the use of computer-generated designs, specifically D-optimal designs. In this paper, we propose an extension to the traditional robust design methodology within the Design for Six Sigma framework that incorporates D-optimal design techniques to facilitate the application of robust design to real-world situations. A numerical example is used to show our proposed approach, and the results determined from our proposed model are compared with that of the traditional robust design approach.
Performance Study on Time Reversed Impulse MIMO for UWB Communications Based on Measured Spatial UWB Channels

UWB technology is generally limited to short range applications, due to the strong power limitations imposed by Federal Communications Commission (FCC). In this paper we propose to use MIMO combined with Time Reversal (TR) technology to increase its transmission distance. The performance of such a UWB-MIMO-TR system is analyzed, considering a simple one correlator receiver. Performance comparisons are made among the scenarios of SISO-TR, MISO-TR, and MIMO-TR. The results show that a UWB-MIMO-TR system can achieve a huge power gain, depending on the antenna numbers employed at both the transmitter and the receiver, but still keeps low complexity at the receiver. The performance analysis is based on realistic channels measured in an office environment.
Ultrastructural evidence of directed cell migration during initial cementoblast differentiation in root formation

Root formation in 14-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats was studied by light and electron microscopy. Special attention was focused on initial cementoblast differentiation. Disruption of the epithelial root sheath appears to be a consequence of directed cell migration by cells of the dental follicle proper which undergo differentiation into precementoblasts. Precementoblasts rapidly develop polarity towards the dentin, exhibiting major cytoplasmic processes rich in cytoplasmic filaments. These processes grow toward and eventually contact the dentin matrix. It is suggested that the cells of the dental follicle proper are cementoblast precursors which respond to chemoattractant substances released from newly deposited dentin matrix- and/or basal lamina-associated material of root sheath origin.
Seasonal variability of shallow biogenic gas in Chesapeake Bay

Abstract Methane gas in Chesapeake Bay sediments occurs in buried paleodrainage channels incised during the last glacial sealevel lowstand. Repeat acoustic surveys of two Chesapeake Bay sites during the past year (with a 2–15 kHz chirp sonar profiler and 100 kHz sidescan sonar) show that the top of the zone of acoustically opaque gas bubbles in the sediments fluctuates vertically by up to 0.5 m, apparently in response to seasonal temperature changes. The vertical movement of the gas layer is most apparent in the main channel of the bay, where the methane gas is very close to the seafloor. In areas where the gas is seen to be very near the seafloor on the chirp profiler records, the sidescan sonar data show corresponding high backscatter. This does not appear to be the result of differing sediment types. It is not likely that the sidescan signal is penetrating the seafloor at the shallow outer grazing angles of the sidescan swath, therefore, the gas must extend to the water–sediment interface. The areas of high backscatter caused by the gas are observed to change seasonally, expanding during the summer high-temperature period and shrinking during the winter low-temperature period.
IN-DEPTH EMBRITTLEMENT OF A SIMULATED PRESSURE VESSEL WALL OF A302-B STEEL

Abstract : Because of the self shielding and attenuation properties of the vessel material, a nuclear reactor pressure vessel will have a neutron flux and spectrum variation across its thickness. As a result of this variation, a pressure vessel should show various degrees of neutron-induced embrittlement throughout its thickness, and thatit is postulated that the embrittlement will be greatest at the inner wall and least at the outer wall. This phenomenon has been investigated by the irradiation of a large block of A302-B steel at the core face of a pool reactor in a position simulating the location of an actual pressure vessel. The steel block, 6 in. thick, was made to accommodate five equally spaced assemblies of Charpy V-notch specimens which, in turn, represented the vessel material at comparable positions. The notch ductility test results of the irradiated specimens demonstrate a significant degree of embrittlement as well as a significant decrease in the degree of embrittlement through the simulated pressure vessel wall. However, the observed decrease is small when related to the respective variation in neutron dosage. A correlation of the notch ductility data developed in this study to that between test reactor experiments and in-service power reactor conditions is indicated. (Author)
Behavioral Dysfunctions Correlate to Altered Physiology in Rainbow Trout (Oncorynchus mykiss) Exposed to Cholinesterase-Inhibiting Chemicals

We selected four metrics of swimming behavior (distance swam, speed, rate of turning, and tortuosity of path) and the commonly used biochemical marker, brain cholinesterase (ChE) activity, to assess (1) the sensitivity and reliability of behavior as a potential biomarker in monitoring work, (2) the potential for these endpoints to be used in automated monitoring, and (3) the linkage between behavior and its underlying biochemistry. Malathion-exposed fish exhibited large decreases in distance and speed and swam in a more linear path than control fish after 24 h exposure. By 96 h exposure, fish still swam slower and traveled less distance; fish fully recovered after 48 h in clean water. Diazinon-exposed fish exhibited decreases in distance, speed, and turning rate compared to controls. After 48 h recovery in clean water, fish exposed to diazinon had not recovered to control levels. The behavioral responses provided measures of neurotoxicity that were easily quantifiable by automated means, implying that the inclusion of behavior in monitoring programs can be successful. Furthermore, correlations between behavior and biochemical endpoints, such as ChE inhibition, suggest that this approach can provide a meaningful link between biochemistry and behavior and can provide useful information on toxicant impacts.
Discordance between Genetic and Epigenetic Defects in Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1b Revealed by Inconsistent Loss of Maternal Imprinting at GNAS1

Although the molecular basis of pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1b (PHP type 1b) remains unknown, a defect in imprinting at the GNAS1 locus has been suggested by the consistent finding of paternal-specific patterns of DNA methylation on maternally inherited GNAS1 alleles. To characterize the relationship between the genetic and epigenetic defects in PHP type 1b, we analyzed allelic expression and methylation of CpG islands within exon 1A of GNAS1 in patients with sporadic PHP type 1b and in affected and unaffected individuals from five multigenerational kindreds with PHP type 1b. All subjects with resistance to parathyroid hormone (PTH) showed loss of methylation of the exon 1A region on the maternal GNAS1 allele and/or biallelic expression of exon 1A–containing transcripts, consistent with an imprinting defect. Paternal transmission of the disease-associated haplotype was associated with normal patterns of GNAS1 methylation and PTH responsiveness. We found that affected and unaffected siblings in one kindred had inherited the same GNAS1 allele from their affected mother, evidence for dissociation between the genetic and epigenetic GNAS1 defects. The absence of the epigenetic defect in subjects who have inherited a defective maternal GNAS1 allele suggests that the genetic mutation may be incompletely penetrant, and it indicates that the epigenetic defect, not the genetic mutation, leads to renal resistance to PTH in PHP type 1b.
'Where the Present is Haunted by the Past' Disarticulating Colonialism's Legacy in the Caribbean

The complex theoretical and political formulations of the Caribbean historian and activist Walter Rodney (1942-80) were based on a strategy of bringing to light and thereby undermining the divisive influence of pejorative colonialera constructions of the various racial diasporas in the region. His interventions in public life in Jamaica and Guyana in the late 1960s and 1970s which foreground race without essentializing it, and which refuse to submit to the false opposition of 'race or class' in social analysis and organizing, contribute to an understanding of how strategic and expansive uses of 'blackness' work within and across nation-states to articulate new forms of politics. Walter Ro(iney's life and work also has much to tell us about how to conduct an engaged, socially relevant academic praxis.
Microstructure evolution accompanying high temperature; uniaxial tensile creep of self-reinforced silicon nitride ceramics

Extensive transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has been performed to study the microstructure evolution of a self-reinforced silicon nitride associated with high temperature creep. A large population of strain whorls is observed in samples crept at relatively high temperatures and the strain whorls are not necessarily asymmetrical with respect to the grain boundary normal. Large angle convergent beam electron diffraction (LACBED) at the grain boundaries where strain whorl contrast is visible reveals severely curved Bragg lines, implying large residual strains. This indicates that grain boundary interlocking might be effective to enhance the creep resistance at high temperatures. Dislocation pile-ups, arrays and tangles are present in certain silicon nitride grains. However, a simple analysis rules out dislocations as the major creep mechanism. Most dislocations started from grain boundaries. The role of dislocations is to relieve the stress concentrations at the strain whorls. This adds to the diffusion mechanism of stress relaxation at the strain whorls and facilitates other creep mechanisms such as grain boundary sliding. A large density of multiple-junction cavities is observed in the samples crept at relatively high temperatures. It is proposed that grain boundary sliding and cavity formation, in addition to stress relaxation through nucleation of dislocations at the strain whorls act together to produce a much shorter life to failure at high temperatures. While at lower temperatures, the creep is more diffusion controlled which gives a stress exponent of unity.
On enhancing power systems PMU based data analysis and condition monitoring

This paper investigates two primary algorithms for estimating phasor information used in Phasor Measurement Units (PMU). Power systems behavior and responses are more complicated nowadays and subsequently their supervision, control and protection are more critical and challenging. Various supervisory systems should be employed for protective and control purposes. All these supervisory systems rely on PMU technology with data stamps synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS). A PMU's accuracy and performance in phasor estimation during different power system working conditions to track the actual signal has an impact on the system state estimation and subsequently in the ability in fault and disturbances diagnosis. Many algorithms are proposed recently to be employed for phasor estimation in PMU devices. It is showed that Discrete Fourier based algorithms are the best methods in digital world to implement in PMU devices. Such methods are Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) and Smart DFT that are compared and investigated in this article. Simplicity and low computational burden of these methods resulted in attracting many literatures to employ them in phasor estimation algorithms. However, their accuracy in off-nominal frequency and performance during different working condition are controversial which are studied in this article. Extensive simulations are performed in MATLAB Simulink to study and compare DFT and SDFT algorithms under different system disturbances.
Oxyurid infestation of the breast

Abstract The human oxyurid or pinworm, Enterobius Vermicularis, is usually found within the gastrointestinal tract. Worms have also been described in anatomically related organs. We report the serendipitous finding of active infection of breast tissue with enterobius vermicularis in a patient who underwent a mastectomy for carcinoma of the breast.
Public Goods Game Simulator with Reinforcement Learning Agents

As a famous game in the domain of game theory, both pervasive empirical studies as well as intensive theoretical analysis have been conducted and performed worldwide to research different public goods game scenarios. At the same time, computer game simulators are utilized widely for better research of game theory by providing easy but powerful visualization and statistics functionalities. However, although solutions of public goods game have been widely discussed with empirical studies or theoretical approaches, no computational and automatic simulation approaches has been adopted. For this reason, we have implemented a computer simulator with reinforcement learning agents module for public goods game, and we have utilized this simulator to further study the characteristics of public goods game. Furthermore, in this article, we have also presented a bunch of interesting experimental results with respect to the strategies that agents used and the profits they earned.
The importance of living botanical collections for plant biology and the “next generation” of evo-devo research

Living botanical collections include germplasm repositories, long-term experimental plantings, and botanical gardens. We present here a series of vignettes to illustrate the central role that living collections have played in plant biology research, including evo-devo research. Looking towards the future, living collections will become increasingly important in support of future evo-devo research. The driving force behind this trend is nucleic acid sequencing technologies, which are rapidly becoming more powerful and cost-effective, and which can be applied to virtually any species. This allows for more extensive sampling, including non-model organisms with unique biological features and plants from diverse phylogenetic positions. Importantly, a major challenge for sequencing-based evo-devo research is to identify, access, and propagate appropriate plant materials. We use a vignette of the ongoing One Thousand Transcriptomes project as an example of the challenges faced by such projects. We conclude by identifying some of the pinch-points likely to be encountered by future evo-devo researchers, and how living collections can help address them.
Ribosomal DNA sequencing as a tool for identification of bacterial pathogens

Conventional methods for the identification and characterization of clinical isolates of bacterial pathogens sometimes fall short when such isolates exhibit unusual phenotypic profiles. Recent advances in DNA sequencing technology have greatly enhanced the ability of the microbiologist to determine the identity of a bacterial isolate. Given the relative objectivity of DNA sequence information and growing availability of sequence information databases, a significant movement is now afoot to use molecular methods for the identification of clinical pathogens.
The design and implementation of an observational safety belt use survey

This article describes the methodology for the design of an observational safety belt use survey. It highlights the innovative features of the design: (a) the use of area probability sampling; (b) the measurement of the usage rate as the ratio of the estimated time front-seat passengers are belted in eligible vehicles to the total time in eligible vehicles; and (c) the implementation of procedures to reduce nonsampling or measurement error. Discussed are the development of the sampling plan, the sampling materials, the procedures used to conduct the observations, the approach for estimation and variance computation, and results from recent surveys.
The Proteasomal Rpn11 Metalloprotease Suppresses Tombusvirus RNA Recombination and Promotes Viral Replication via Facilitating Assembly of the Viral Replicase Complex

RNA viruses co-opt a large number of cellular proteins that affect virus replication and, in some cases, viral genetic recombination. RNA recombination helps viruses in an evolutionary arms race with the host's antiviral responses and adaptation of viruses to new hosts. Tombusviruses and a yeast model host are used to identify cellular factors affecting RNA virus replication and RNA recombination. In this study, we have examined the role of the conserved Rpn11p metalloprotease subunit of the proteasome, which couples deubiquitination and degradation of proteasome substrates, in tombusvirus replication and recombination in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and plants. Depletion or mutations of Rpn11p lead to the rapid formation of viral RNA recombinants in combination with reduced levels of viral RNA replication in yeast or in vitro based on cell extracts. Rpn11p interacts with the viral replication proteins and is recruited to the viral replicase complex (VRC). Analysis of the multifunctional Rpn11p has revealed that the primary role of Rpn11p is to act as a “matchmaker” that brings the viral p92pol replication protein and the DDX3-like Ded1p/RH20 DEAD box helicases into VRCs. Overexpression of Ded1p can complement the defect observed in rpn11 mutant yeast by reducing TBSV recombination. This suggests that Rpn11p can suppress tombusvirus recombination via facilitating the recruitment of the cellular Ded1p helicase, which is a strong suppressor of viral recombination, into VRCs. Overall, this work demonstrates that the co-opted Rpn11p, which is involved in the assembly of the functional proteasome, also functions in the proper assembly of the tombusvirus VRCs. IMPORTANCE RNA viruses evolve rapidly due to genetic changes based on mutations and RNA recombination. Viral genetic recombination helps viruses in an evolutionary arms race with the host's antiviral responses and facilitates adaptation of viruses to new hosts. Cellular factors affect viral RNA recombination, although the role of the host in virus evolution is still understudied. In this study, we used a plant RNA virus, tombusvirus, to examine the role of a cellular proteasomal protein, called Rpn11, in tombusvirus recombination in a yeast model host, in plants, and in vitro. We found that the cellular Rpn11 is subverted for tombusvirus replication and Rpn11 has a proteasome-independent function in facilitating viral replication. When the Rpn11 level is knocked down or a mutated Rpn11 is expressed, then tombusvirus RNA goes through rapid viral recombination and evolution. Taken together, the results show that the co-opted cellular Rpn11 is a critical host factor for tombusviruses by regulating viral replication and genetic recombination.