cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multiscale Design Curation: Supporting Computer Science Students' Iterative and Reflective Creative Processes

We investigate new media to improve how teams of students create and organize artifacts as they perform design. Some design artifacts are readymade-e.g., prior work, reference images, code framework repositories-while others are self-made-e.g., storyboards, mock ups, prototypes, and user study reports. We studied how computer science students use the medium of free-form web curation to collect, assemble, and report on their team-based design projects. From our mixed qualitative methods analysis, we found that the use of space and scale was central to their engagement in creative processes of communication and contextualization. Multiscale design curation involves collecting readymade and creating self-made design artifacts, and assembling them-as elements, in a continuous space, using levels of visual scale-for thinking about, ideation, communicating, exhibiting (presenting), and archiving design process. Multiscale design curation instantiates a constructivist approach, elevating the role of design process representation. Student curations are open and unstructured, which helps avoid premature formalism and supported reflection in iterative design processes. Multiscale design curation takes advantage of human spatial cognition, through visual chunking, to support creative processes and collaborative articulation work, in integrated space.
A deep neural network approach for behind-the-meter residential PV size, tilt and azimuth estimation

Abstract There is an ever-growing number of photovoltaic (PV) installations in the US and worldwide. Many utilities do not have complete or up-to-date information of the PVs present within their grids. This research presents a deep neural network approach for estimating PV size, tilt, and azimuth using only behind-the-meter data. It is found that the proposed deep neural network (DNN) method can estimate PV size with an error of 2.09% in a data set with fixed tilt and azimuth values and 3.98% in a data set with varying tilt and azimuths. This is a lower error than the benchmark linear regression approach. A net load data resolution of 1 min provides the lowest error when estimating the PV size. The proposed DNN is also reasonably robust to erroneous training data. When applied to estimate PV tilt and azimuth, the proposed method achieves a mean absolute percentage error of 10.1% and 2.8% respectively. These error metrics are 2.0 × and 3.7 × lower, respectively, than the benchmark linear regression achieves. It was observed that a higher data resolution (1 min) does not provide significant gains in accuracy. It is recommended that a data resolution of 60 min is used to reduce the effects of phenomena such as cloud enhancements. The proposed deep neural network approach is also highly robust, maintaining reasonable accuracy with high levels of mislabeled training data.
Integration of Self-Sealing Suction Cups on the FLEXotendon Glove-II Robotic Exoskeleton System

This article presents a hand exoskeleton using self-sealing suction cup modules to assist and simplify various grasping tasks. Robotic hands, grippers, and hand rehabilitation exoskeletons require complex motion planning and control algorithms to manipulate various objects, which increases system complexity. The proposed hand exoskeleton integrated with self-sealing suction cup modules provides simplified grasping with the assistance of suction. The suction cup has a self-sealing mechanism with a passive opening valve and it reduces vacuum consumption and pump noise. The gimbal mechanism allows the suction cup to have a wide range of contact angles, which increases adaptability of grasping of the exoskeleton. The fabrication process of the device is introduced with the suction cup design and material selection. The vacuum canister and solenoid valve that comprise the proposed pneumatic circuit provide a continuous vacuum supply source without continuous operation of a vacuum pump and autonomous suction/release motion, respectively. The performance of the hand exoskeleton was demonstrated with various grasping tasks and it provided stable grasping and pick-and-place task without complex finger manipulation. The proposed hand exoskeleton has the potential to simplify the grasping process and allow patients with hand dysfunction to expand their versatility of grasping tasks.
Smith–Lemli–Opitz Syndrome

Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is an autosomal recessive congenital malformation syndrome due to a defect in the enzyme 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase. This enzyme is critical in cholesterol biosynthesis, and the resulting defect causes decreased cholesterol production and an increase in the potentially toxic cholesterol precursors, 7- and 8-dehydrocholesterol. The clinical phenotype encompasses a wide spectrum. This article provides a brief overview of SLOS including clinical features, diagnosis, current therapy, and future potential therapies.
Crystal structures of two magnesium citrates from powder diffraction data

The crystal structures of magnesium hydrogen citrate dihydrate, Mg(HC6H5O7)(H2O)2, (I), and bis­(di­hydrogen citrato)magnesium, Mg(H2C6H5O7)2, (II), have been solved and refined using synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction data, and optimized using density functional techniques. In (I), the citrate anion occurs in the trans, trans-conformation, and triply chelates to the Mg cation. In (II), the citrate anion is trans, gauche, and doubly chelates to the Mg cation. In both compounds the Mg cation coordination polyhedron is an octa­hedron. In (I), the MgO6 coordination polyhedra are isolated, while in (II), they share edges to form chains. Strong O—H⋯O hydrogen bonds are prominent in the two structures, as well as in the previously reported magnesium citrate deca­hydrate.
Narrowing Equity in Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy law has a language problem. Words concerning bankruptcy “equity” and a bankruptcy court’s “equitable powers” are tossed about, in pleadings, court opinions, and scholarly literature, but no one agrees on what “equity” means in the bankruptcy context. Is equity about filling gaps within the Bankruptcy Code? Is it, instead, about working around the Code? Is it about “promoting justice?” There is considerable room for disagreement and debate. This Article posits that in bankruptcy, equity has a narrower meaning than it perhaps has in other contexts. U.S. bankruptcy law is governed by a statute, the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, and bankruptcy equity, as granted by the Bankruptcy Code, is part and parcel of statutory interpretation. This is so for two reasons. First, statutes are not drafted in a vacuum; rather, Congress creates statutes against a backdrop of existing laws and legal frameworks. This is particularly true in bankruptcy: several bankruptcy statutes preceded the current Bankruptcy Code, and the bankruptcy courts can trace their roots to the Court of Chancery in England. Second, statutes by their very nature are limited; they cannot encompass every conceivable situation that may arise in practice. Thus, entities, such as bankruptcy courts, tasked with interpreting and applying statutory language must have the flexibility to interpret the statute in a way that is consistent with the broader framework against which it was enacted and in a way that furthers the statutory purpose as the situation demands. Equity exists in bankruptcy to provide this flexibility.
Childhood Secondhand Smoke Exposure and Risk of Dementia, Alzheimer's Disease and Stroke in Adulthood: A Prospective Cohort Study

This study aimed to investigate the associations between secondhand smoke exposure and dementia, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and stroke. This prospective study analyzed Framingham Offspring (FHS-OS) cohort participants with parents in the original Framingham Heart Study (FHS) cohort with known smoking status during offspring childhood. Surveillance for incident events, including dementia and stroke, among offspring participants exposed to parental smoking up to the age of 18 years commenced at examination 9 through 2014 and continued for approximately 30 years. At baseline, a total of 1683 (56.2%) subjects were not exposed to any secondhand smoke, whereas 670 (22.4%) subjects were exposed to 0–1 packs (20 cigarettes)/day, and 640 (21.4%) were exposed to over 1 pack/day. On follow-up (median: 31 years), 2993 patients developed dementia, including 103 with AD dementia and 315 with stroke. After adjusting for a wide range of established risk factors, participants with the highest exposure to secondhand smoke exhibited increased risks of all dementia, AD dementia and stroke compared with individuals with no exposure [HR 2.86 (2.00–4.09) for dementia; HR 3.13 (1.80–5.42) for AD dementia; HR 1.89 (1.37–2.61) for stroke]. The results remained comparable in the subgroup for individuals with median exposure to secondhand smoke. Exposure to secondhand smoke may be associated with increased risks of dementia, AD dementia and stroke.
Spatiotemporal Insights Into RNA-Organelle Interactions in Neurons.

Neurons exhibit spatial compartmentalization of gene expression where localization of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) to distal processes allows for site-specific distribution of proteins through local translation. Recently, there have been reports of coordination between mRNA transport with vesicular and organellar trafficking. In this review, we will highlight the latest literature on axonal and dendritic local protein synthesis with links to mRNA-organelle co-transport followed by emerging technologies necessary to study these phenomena. Recent high-resolution imaging studies have led to insights into the dynamics of RNA-organelle interactions and we can now peer into these intricate interactions within subcellular compartments of neurons.
Book Review: Lucy Reed, Jan Paulsson, and Nigel Blackaby, Guide to ICSID Arbitration (2d Ed., 2011)

In recent years, investor-State arbitration has inspired an impressive array of high-quality commentary in a range of forms and fora. The investor-State arbitration story is intimately linked in turn to the Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes Between States and Nationals of Other States (ICSID Convention) and the center it created - the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID or the Centre). The Guide to ICSID Arbitration aims to be a concise, reliable desk reference rather than a policy oriented commentary of the academic sort, but in succeeding at its task it manages to touch upon many of the compelling themes that surround investor-State arbitration and the substantial literature it has prompted. This book review surveys some of these themes.
A Computational Model for Teaching of Free Convection

Free convection is a fundamental component of courses in heat transfer, but the transport equations are frequently coupled and cannot be solved analytically. In this article, an algorithm is presented for solving Poulhausen's approximation for free convection near a vertical wall, calculating the Nusselt number, and constructing two-dimensional temperature and vertical velocity distributions. This example can be readily incorporated into the chemical engineering classes at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, either as a numerical modeling problem or as a tool to help students conceptualize free convection.
New Developments in Diagnostics and Management of Invasive Candidiasis

Invasive candidiasis is an infection of increasing prevalence which is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The rising incidence of invasive candidiasis is likely related to increasing numbers of immuno-compromised patients and lifesaving medical/surgical interventions that prolong life but break down both immunological and physical host defenses. The available tests include serologies focusing on the fungal cell wall components mannan, galactomannan, and (1,3)-s-d-glucan (BG) or antibodies against these antigens, as well as genetic material detection tests. This chapter focuses on these new markers and their use for advanced prevention and treatment strategies. Research has shown that BG levels are not affected by Candida colonization. Aside from BG, which is currently commercially available throughout the world, there is intense research for new biomarkers. This is driven by the fact that current diagnostic methods are less than optimal, by the interest of pharmaceutical companies in finding new surrogate markers for diagnosis and outcomes assessment for drug development trials, and by the recent interest of commercial diagnostic laboratories in these methods. Antifungal prophylaxis is an attractive strategy, as the best way to deal with a fungal infection is to prevent it from ever occurring.
Inflammatory Pseudotumor of the Liver with Escherichia coli in the Sputum

Inflammatory pseudotumor is a nonmalignant lesion that mimics malignant lesions and has been reported to occur at various sites throughout the body. Though it has been reported as a reaction to infection, the true etiology of the lesion is unknown. In this report, we present the case of a patient with a liver lesion of unknown origin. Through a series of imaging studies, we were able to observe the locally aggressive nature of this lesion as it rapidly eroded into the lung. Sputum cultures showed growth of E. coli, indicating E. coli infection as a possible etiology of this lesion. Pathology was consistent with inflammatory pseudotumor.
Noise tolerant algorithms for learning and searching

We consider the problem of developing robust algorithms which cope with noisy data. In the Probably Approximately Correct model of machine learning, we develop a general technique which allows nearly all PAC learning algorithms to be converted into highly efficient PAC learning algorithms which tolerate noise. In the field of combinatorial algorithms, we develop techniques for constructing search algorithms which tolerate linearly bounded errors and probabilistic errors. In the field of machine learning, we derive general bounds on the complexity of learning in the recently introduced Statistical Query model and in the PAC model with noise. We do so by considering the problem of improving the accuracy of learning algorithms. In particular, we study the problem of "boosting" the accuracy of "weak" learning algorithms which fall within the Statistical Query model, and we show that it is possible to improve the accuracy of such learning algorithms to any arbitrary accuracy. We derive a number of interesting consequences from this result, and in particular, we show that nearly all PAC learning algorithms can be converted into highly efficient PAC learning algorithms which tolerate classification noise and malicious errors. We also investigate the longstanding problem of searching in the presence of errors. We consider the problem of determining an unknown quantity x by asking "yes-no" questions, where some of the answers may be erroneous. We focus on two different models of error: the linearly bounded model, where for some known constant $r < 1/2$, each initial sequence of i answers is guaranteed to have no more than ri errors, and the probabilistic model, where errors occur randomly and independently with probability $p < {{1}\over{2}}$. We develop highly efficient algorithms for searching in the presence of linearly bounded errors, and we further show that searching in the presence of probabilistic errors can be efficiently reduced to searching in the presence of linearly bounded errors. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.)
Hormones, Posterior Pituitary Hormones

Oxytocin and vasopressin are cyclic peptide hormones primarily synthesized in the human hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary. These nonapeptide amides, along with at least 14 other variants found in lower vertebrates and invertebrates, contain cysteine residues at positions 1 and 6, forming a disulfide bridged ring, along with a tripeptide C-terminal extension. The hormones are stored in neurosecretory granules with their respective carrier proteins, the neurophysins, prior to release into the bloodstream. Oxytocin promotes milk ejection and uterine contraction; human arginine vasopressin promotes water retention and exerts a pressor effect. Both hormones or their analogues are used clinically and both are being intensively studied for additional physiological effects. These include nurturing behavior in women and penile erection in men for oxytocin, and memory consolidation for arginine vasopressin and analogues. Receptors, including some receptor subtypes, have been cloned for both hormones. Oxytocin and V1 receptors function through the GP/1 phospholipase C complex, whereas V2 receptors activate adenosine monophosphatase (AMP). Selective peptide and nonpeptide, ie, peptidomimetic, analogues are being developed that should offer improved therapeutic utility. Keywords: Neurohypophyseal hormones; Posterior pituitary hormones; Structure-activity relationships; Agonists; Analogues; Antagonists; Oxytocin; Vasopressin receptors; Memory; Diuretic agents; Gastrointestinal agents
Exogenous tariff changes with an endogenous lobbying response

As pointed out by Krueger (1993a, 1993b), changes in policy which are exogenous to the lobbying process may lead to a vicious circle of protectionism. A sector which receives protection will tend to grow, thereby increasing the constituency for greater protection and reducing the constituency which opposes protection. The possibility of such a vicious circle is examined in the context of a trade model where capital, which is immobile in the short run, may lobby for a sector specific import tariff. If costs associated with overcoming the free rider problem do not rise too quickly, exogenous policy changes will be reinforced by the endogenous lobbying response, as capital flows into the protected sector in the long run. The implications of lobbying by third parties versus lobbying by the specific factors themselves are also examined.
Greater prairie-chicken brood-site selection and survival in the Nebraska sandhills

The greater prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus cupido pinnatus) is a grassland bird species of conservation concern, although the region of the Nebraska Sandhills has the largest and most stable population in North America. The Sandhills region is semiarid and dominated by privately owned rangeland; vegetation in the region is typically less dense than the tall grass ecosystem. Most management recommendations for the greater prairie-chicken are based on work in tall grass prairies, so our goal was to estimate the responses of brood-site selection and survival to the unique vegetation characteristics of the Sandhills region. We studied prairie-chickens on private rangelands in Rock and Brown Counties from 2009 to 2011. We radio-marked 139 females and monitored females with broods from May through July using pickup-mounted and handheld telemetry systems. We used discrete choice models to assess micro-scale habitat selection within used pastures. Specifically, we investigated the effect of local heterogeneity of vegetation structure and composition on site selection. The contiguous grasslands of the Sandhills contain variation in soils, slope, and proximity to water table, so we also assessed selection of these ecological sites (the equivalent of land-use categories in fragmented landscapes) for brood-rearing within the broad landscape (macro-scale). Last, we assessed variation in brood survival in response to weather and vegetation structure and composition. Prairie-chicken females with broods selected sands ecological sites (upland, rolling hills sites) that had thicker vegetation with higher visual obstruction reading (VOR; x ¯ = 7.7 cm, SE = 0.4), more variable VOR ( x ¯ = 20.1, ±2.1), and greater litter depth ( x ¯ = 0.07 cm, ±0.01) than at coupled random locations (VOR: x ¯ = 6.6 cm, ±0.1; variance VOR: x ¯ = 15.6, ±0.8; litter depth: x ¯ = 0.05 cm, ±0.01). The selection function for brood sites peaked for sites with approximately 10 cm VOR, which was significantly less than the range of 20–30 cm of visual obstruction suggested for management of tallgrass prairies. In fact, only 5.0% of random sites and 5.4% of sites used by hens with broods had VOR >20 cm. However, VOR and litter depth did not explain variability in brood survival, and we found considerable uncertainty in our analysis of daily survival. Models with forb cover were ranked highest in the survival analyses (combined ωAIC c = 0.63), which provided some support for a positive effect of forb cover on brood survival (βforb cover = 0.327, SE = 0.337). We suggest that land managers in the Sandhills region provide brooding habitat in grazed, upland ecological sites that is characterized by minimal bare ground, a consistent distribution of litter, a forb component, and VOR levels of 4–11 cm in pastures in the vicinity of leks. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
Long-Term Dynamics of U.S. Atlantic Sea Scallop Placopecten magellanicus Populations

Abstract Biomass and commercial catch rates of Atlantic sea scallops Placopecten magellanicus in the USA generally declined from the 1960s through the mid-1990s as fishing mortality increased. Sporadic large recruitment events temporarily increased landings but also encouraged higher overall fishing effort and thereby contributed to the long-term declines in resource abundance. In 1994, a number of new management measures were introduced, including a moratorium on new permits, limitations on days at sea, gear and crew restrictions, and year-round closed areas. During 1994–2005, the biomass of sea scallops in the U.S. sector of Georges Bank increased by a factor of about 18, while the biomass of sea scallops in the Middle Atlantic Bight increased by about eight times. These increases were primarily due to the area closures. Biomass in the Georges Bank closed areas was 25 times higher in 2005 than in 1994, and the 2005 level constituted over 80% of the biomass in the U.S. portion of Georges Bank. Substantia...
The active transport of selected amino acids across the gut of the chiton (Cryptochiton stelleri). 1. Mapping determinations and effects of anaerobic conditions.

Abstract 1. 1. Everted sacs prepared from selected regions of a chiton gut were used to study the movement of six amino acids. 2. 2. Glycine, l -alanine, dl -proline, AIBA and dl -lysine were actively transported by two regions of the posterior intestine. 3. 3. Regional differences in the active transport of the neutral forms and the basic form were observed. 4. 4. No active transport of l -glutamic acid was detected. 5. 5. Active transport rate was significantly depressed during anaerobic incubation. Returning the preparations to aerobic conditions resulted in a re-establishment of transport rate. 6. 6. The results suggest that the mollusc intestine may play an important role in the absorption of organic nutrients.
Metastatic esophageal carcinoma to the orbit.

Abstract PURPOSE: To report a case of esophageal adenocarcinoma and areas of gastric differentiation in the esophagus (Barrett esophagus) metastatic to the orbit. METHODS: A 47-year-old man with a history of esophageal carcinoma developed turgescence around his left eye. He underwent a biopsy and histologic examination of a left orbital mass. RESULTS: Histopathology of the orbital tumor was consistent with metastatic adenocarcinoma from the esophagus. CONCLUSIONS: This metastatic adenocarcinoma to the orbit likely arose in Barrett esophagus.
Molecular Gallium Arsenide Phosphide Clusters Prepared from AsP3, P4, and [{GaC(SiMe3)3}4]

Treatment of AsP 3 with 0.75 equivalents of [{GaC(SiMe 3 ) 3 } 4 ] resulted in selective insertion of three equivalents of {GaC(SiMe 3 ) 3 } into the three As—P bonds to give [As{GaC-(SiMe 3 ) 3 } 3 P 3 ] (1-As) with an intact cyclo-P 3 ring. This yellow compound has been characterized by NMR spectroscopy, combustion analysis, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, UV/Vis spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry (THF, 0.2 M [TBA] [B(C 6 F 5 ) 4 ]; TBA = tetrabutyl ammonium). Computational models of 1-As and the isomeric [P{GaC-(SiMe 3 ) 3 } 3 AsP 2 ] (1-P) have been investigated as well, revealing several interesting electronic features of these cage molecules. Following from the cyclic voltammetry studies of 1-As that high-light an irreversible two-electron reduction at ―2.2 V versus Fc/Fc + , treatment with one equivalent of [Mg-(C 14 H 10 )(thf) 3 ] resulted in two-electron reduction to provide [As{GaC-(SiMe 3 ) 3 } 3 P 3 Mg(thf) 3 ] (2), in which the Mg 2+ ion has inserted into one of the P―P bonds of the cyclo-P 3 ring. It was also found that treatment of AsP 3 or P 4 with one equivalent of [{GaC-(SiMe 3 ) 3 } 4 ] resulted in formation of the quadruple insertion products [As{GaC-(SiMe 3 ) 3 } 4 P 3 ] (3) and [P{GaC-(SiMe 3 ) 3 } 4 P 3 ] (4), respectively.
Adaptive increase in phytate digestibility by phosphorus-deprived rats and the relationship of intestinal phytase (EC 3.1.3.8) and alkaline phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.1) to phytate utilization

1. The effects of phosphorus deprivation on phytate digestibility, phosphorus utilization and intestinal phytase (EC 3.1.3.8) and alkaline phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.1) in rats were investigated. 2. P deprivation was achieved by giving rats a diet containing 3 g P/kg and resulted in hypophosphataemia, hypercalcaemia, hypercalciuria, and lower levels of P absorbed and retained, and calcium retained. 3. Rats adapted to P deprivation by increasing the digestion of total dietary-P and phytate-P. 4. Levels of intestinal alkaline phosphatase and alkaline phytase were not different between the two treatment groups. 5. P deprivation in the rats given the marginal-P diet may be a result of a lower absorption of total dietary-P or increased absorption of inositol phosphates formed during the enzymatic hydrolysis of phytate which are not readily utilized by the rat. 6. These results suggest that intestinal phytase and alkaline phosphatase do not play a role in the adaptive increase in phytate digestibility by rats given marginal-P diets. The adaptation may result from enhanced phytase or alkaline phosphatase synthesis by the gastrointestinal microflora stimulated by a lower level of P in the digesta.
Small Parameter Analysis of the Modified Tate Equations

The Tate Theory of penetration of armor targets by long rod penetrators [1,2] has been the benchmark one-dimensional model of this event for decades. The model is applied to metal-on-metal normal impact of cylindrical rod penetrators. The key physical parameters in the model are the penetrator and target strengths and densities (assumed constant), as well as the penetrator length. With these parameters and the impact speed, penetration depth for all combinations of the parameters can be evaluated. In a recent paper, Walters et al [3] showed that all of the important effects of the classic Tate Theory could be captured by a regular perturbation solution of the fundamental equations. The small parameter that they used was e = Yp /ρp v0 2 , where Yp is the penetrator yield strength, ρp is the penetrator density and v0 is the impact speed. In 1987, Jones et al [4] modified the equation of motion of the undeformed section to include mass loss and mushrooming at the interface with the target. The changes to the theory that result from these modifications bring the strengths of the target and penetrator into line with laboratory levels while achieving reasonable penetration depths. In this paper, we will show that the regular perturbation analysis used by Walters et al [3] can be extended to the modified system of equations from Jones et al [4] using the same small parameter mentioned in the previous paragraph. The perturbation process is carried out to terms of first order and an approximate analytical solution is found. This solution is then used to repeat the reduction of data given by Wilson et al [5] for Aluminum and Steel alloy penetrators normally impacting Aluminum and Steel targets. Another case involving heavy metal penetrators impacting Rolled Hard Armor (RHA) targets is also presented.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Utilization of a cylindrical geometry to promote radiative interaction with slow surface excitations

Abstract The intensity of 6328 A light reflected by ∼50μ Al and Ag cylinders exhibits a sequence of dips as a function of angle of incidence. A theory for the excitation of guided surface plasmas waves provides good agreement with the data.
Pumping efficiency and emission cross-section measurements of flashlamp-pumped chromium- and neodymium-doped scandium garnets using threshold lasing

Analytical closed-form expressions for the pumping efficiency, passive loss, and the effective emission cross section are derived for threshold lasing in homogeneously broadened four-level laser media. These expressions are discussed with respect to existing discrepancies in the literature. The analytical results are applied to threshold-lasing measurements in flashlamp-pumped Cr:Nd:GSAG and Cr:Nd:YSGG as compared to Cr:Nd:GSGG.
Asilomar and five years

Abstract The legacies of the 1975 Asilomar Conference are the unnecessary regulations and bureaucracy in one area of fundamental biological research. How did it happen, how can such disservice to science and society be prevented in the future, and what are the lessons we learned from this episode when vague apprehensions, emotions and pessimism triumphed over reason and the careful scientific process?
The proliferation rate paradox in antimitotic chemotherapy

Cytotoxic cancer chemotherapy drugs are believed to gain selectivity by targeting cells that proliferate rapidly. However, the proliferation rate is low in many chemosensitive human cancers, and it...
A placebo-controlled trial of L-365,260, a CCKB antagonist, in panic disorder

The functional role of cholecystokinin in the central nervous system is unknown. The tetra peptide CCK-4 was previously observed to induce panic attacks in a majority of normal volunteers and patients with panic disorder. Furthermore, it had been demonstrated that pretreatment with 10–50 mg of L-365,260, a selective CCK B antagonist, blocked CCK-4 induced panic in patients with panic disorder. Therefore, the present multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial was designed to investigate the efficacy of L-365,260, a CCK B antagonist, in patients with panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. Following a 1-week, single-blind placebo period, 88 patients were randomized to double-blind treatment in which they received either L-365,260, 30 mg qid, or placebo for 6 weeks. At the dose tested, there were no clinically significant differences between L-365,260 and placebo in global improvement ratings, Hamilton anxiety rating scale scores, panic attack frequency, panic attack intensity, or disability measures. The possible reasons for lack of effect with L-365,260 are discussed.
Flavonoids as plant signals to rhizosphere microbes

Certain flavonoids released from plants regulate activities of soil microbes at micromolar and nanomolar concentrations. Processes affected by these compounds include induction of nodulation gene transcription in rhizobial bacteria, promotion of chemotaxis in rhizobia, increase in growth rate of several bacterial species, and enhancement of Glomus spore germination and hyphal growth. Data on the amount and identity of flavonoids released from several crop plant species form a new basis for molecular genetic and ecological studies of the rhizosphere.
Extinction coefficients for multimodal atmospheric particle size distributions

Abstract A chart was developed which gives the volume-normalized extinction coefficient for log-normally modelled, multimodal particle volume distributions. The real part of the particle refractive index ranges from 1.30 to 1.70. Two adjustment charts modify the main chart for an imaginary part of the refractive index different from 0.02, and for a geometric standard deviation of the modal volume distribution, different from 2.0. The charts show that particles in the accumulation range, which has a mode in the 0.1 to 1 μm diameter size interval, are optically the most active. Exact knowledge of the particle refractive index is imperative for fine particles, but of small importance for coarse particles.
Electrobiocommodities: powering microbial production of fuels and commodity chemicals from carbon dioxide with electricity

Electricity can be an energy source for microbially catalyzed production of fuels and other organic commodities from carbon dioxide. These electrobiocommodities (E-BCs) can be produced directly via electrode-to-microbe electron transfer or indirectly with electrochemically generated electron donors such as H2 or formate. Producing E-BCs may be a more efficient and environmentally sustainable strategy for converting solar energy to biocommodities than approaches that rely on biological photosynthesis. A diversity of microbial physiologies could potentially be adapted for E-BC production, but to date acetogenic microorganisms are the only organisms shown to covert electrically generated low potential electrons and carbon dioxide into multi-carbon organic products with high recovery of electrons in product. Substantial research and development will be required for E-BC commercialization.
Synthesis and characterization of photolabile o-nitrobenzyl derivatives of urea

We present here the synthesis and characterization of four photolabile derivatives of urea in which alpha-substituted 2-nitrobenzyl groups are covalently attached to the urea nitrogen. These derivatives photolyze readily in aqueous solution to release free urea. The alpha-substituents of the 2-nitrobenzyl group strongly influence the rate of the photolysis reaction measured with transient absorption spectroscopy. Rates of photolysis at pH 7.5 and room temperature (approximately 22 degrees C) for N-(2-nitrobenzyl)urea, N-(alpha-methyl-2-nitrobenzyl)urea, N-(alpha-carboxymethyl-2-nitrobenzyl)urea, and N-(alpha-carboxy-2-nitrobenzyl)urea are, respectively, 1.7 x 10(4), 8.5 x 10(4), 4.0 x 10(4), and 1.1 x 10(5) s(-)(1). The quantum yields determined by measurement of free urea following irradiation by a single laser pulse at 308 nm were 0.81 for N-(2-nitrobenzyl)urea, 0.64 for N-(alpha-methyl-2-nitrobenzyl)urea, and 0.56 for N-(alpha-carboxy-2-nitrobenzyl)urea. The caged N-(alpha-carboxy-2-nitrobenzyl)urea is not a substrate of the enzyme urease, while the photolytically released urea is. Also, neither this caged urea nor its photolytic side products inhibit hydrolysis of free urea by urease. Thus, the alpha-carboxy-2-nitrobenzyl derivative of urea is suitable for mechanistic investigations of the enzyme urease.
MAXAMIZE. A DNA sequencing strategy advisor

The MAXAMIZE advisory system determines from user-provided restriction maps an optimal strategy to do nucleotide sequencing by methods involving end-labeled fragments. The maps may be either simple linear restriction maps of fragments or complex circular maps including restriction sites of a vector. The whole system is interactive and is written in the Genetic English language provided by the GENESIS System, a molecular genetics knowledge representation and manipulation package. In addition, MAXAMIZE provides bookkeeping facilities for sequencing and offers advise on how to verify the newly obtained sequence data.
Bifurcations, catastrophes, and optimal control

An approach to the problem of determining bifurcation-free optimal control laws is presented using the theory of catastrophes. Under the assumption that the linearized system dynamics in the neighborhood of the equilibrium are of gradient type, conditions are given to ensure that a linear feedback law simultaneously minimize a quadratic objective and generate a bifurcation-free trajectory. Explicit results are presented for the case of two system inputs (the cusp catastrophe). Extensions to the case of nongradient dynamics and/or nonquadratic costs are also discussed.
Biofiltration of wastewater lift station emissions: evaluation of VOC removal in the presence of H 2 S

The capacity of biofilter systems to remove volatile organic compounds in the presence of high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide was investigated for applications in wastewater lift stations. The treatment system was an enclosed unit composed of a biotrickling filter coupled with a biofilter. The biofilter media were plastic hollow spherical balls filled with a compost mixture; and the biotrickling filter media was a structured plastic packing. The gases from the pumping station wet well were a mixture of H2S and low concentration aliphatic and aromatic VOCs, toluene being the most significant in concentrations of 41 ppb. The H2S concentration was 314 ppm with fluctuations of 100 ppm resulting from pumping cycles at the station. No inhibition effect was detected from the simultaneous biological removal of VOCs and H2S: toluene removal efficiency was 91% with the two sections contributing approximately equally to the pollutant removal; and the average removal of H2S was 74%. A traditional open-in-ground biofilter filled with wood chips and compost, existing in the site, attained similar removal efficiencies for toluene, but the elimination capacity of the biotrickling/biofilter system was 3.3-times higher than the open biofilter.
Quantifying the accuracy of forensic examiners in the absence of a "gold standard".

This study asked whether latent class modeling methods and multiple ratings of the same cases might permit quantification of the accuracy of forensic assessments. Five evaluators examined 156 redacted court reports concerning criminal defendants who had undergone hospitalization for evaluation or restoration of their adjudicative competence. Evaluators rated each defendant’s Dusky-defined competence to stand trial on a five-point scale as well as each defendant’s understanding of, appreciation of, and reasoning about criminal proceedings. Having multiple ratings per defendant made it possible to estimate accuracy parameters using maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches, despite the absence of any “gold standard” for the defendants’ true competence status. Evaluators appeared to be very accurate, though this finding should be viewed with caution.
Some panel cointegration modelsof international R&D spillovers

Abstract Coe and Helpman (1995) estimated a relationship between TFP and levels of domestic andforeign R&D capital, but couldn't provide compelling evidence of the panel cointegration needed to support their estimation strategy. This paper uses Pedroni, 1997 , Pedroni, 1998 tests for panel cointegration in both the Coe-Helpman setup and in a framework with more cross-section heterogeneity. Criticisms of the Coe-Helpman approach are also tested. Coe and Helpman's models exhibit cointegration, but when more heterogeneity is allowed, coefficient estimates appear less robust. The elasticity of productivity with respect to foreign R&D is unstable across alternative estimation strategies.
Intrinsic magnetic properties of ultrathin amorphous Fe70B30/Ag multilayers.

We report the observation of perpendicular magnetization in ultrathin amorphous ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{70}$${\mathrm{B}}_{30}$/Ag multilayer films by means of M\"ossbauer spectroscopy. In contrast to other techniques that require the application of an external magnetic field, the field-free condition of M\"ossbauer spectroscopy allowed the intrinsic magnetic properties of ultrathin films to be studied. Our study indicates that at elevated temperatures an external field may easily alter the spontaneous magnetization in an ultrathin film with very small effective anisotropy and thus obscure its intrinsic magnetic properties. By virtue of the microscopic probing capability of M\"ossbauer spectroscopy, the surface magnetic properties of thin amorphous ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{70}$${\mathrm{B}}_{30}$ films have also been studied.
The role of economic invisibility in development: veiling women's work in rural Pakistan

The thesis in this article is that both women's work and its invisibility are essential to development, and at two levels: to the economy of rural households and to the wider development process. For rural households, the case of Pakistan suggests that the veils that conceal women's work shield a portion of household production from the risks and extractions inherent in their involvement with development. This shielded production depends on off-farm natural resources of which the use is also veiled. For States and other development interests, the author suggests that women's work constitutes a subsidy which is intentionally invisible. The subsidy of women's labour is linked to a forest-to-farm subsidy. Women's invisible work, in other words, is not invisible because it is not seen, but because the process of economic development-for both rural households and States and other development actors-requires that it be hidden.
Computer-based electroencephalography: technical basics, basis for new applications, and potential pitfalls

EEG has been recorded on paper-based analog systems for over 50 years. In the past 5 years, computer-based digital systems have become more widely used. Digital systems eliminate some artifacts that plagued analog recordings but introduce subtle new problems including aliasing and dynamic range. Digital systems allow reformatting of the same EEG segment using different gain, filter and montage settings. The digital signal allows for measurement and computations on the EEG, leading to applications such as power spectrum, topographic mapping, and spike or seizure detection.
Approach to the Management of Soft Tissue Tumors of the Foot and Ankle

To properly treat soft tissue tumors, the foot and ankle surgeon must start with an adequate fund of knowledge and follow a systematic approach. Some malignant soft tumors have a predilection for the foot and ankle, and they may mimic common musculoskeletal conditions, leading to a trap for the unwary clinician. This review will familiarize the practitioner with the common soft tissue tumors that occur in the foot and ankle along with their presentations. A systematic approach to the workup is outlined, which is designed to establish the diagnosis with a significant degree of certainty before the surgical treatment of the tumor is planned. A practical and reliable method of distinguishing benign tumors from those that are potentially malignant is presented. Finally, the techniques for surgical management of the common soft tissue tumors are summarized.
Mechanism of coherent acoustic phonon generation under nonequilibrium conditions

We have investigated the dynamics of coherent acoustic phonons generated with ultrafast optical excitation in monoatomic Al films using femtosecond electron diffraction. Associated coherent and thermal lattice motions were measured simultaneously with sub milli-\aa{}ngstr\"om spatial resolution in real time. We show here that the phonon dynamics can be well fitted with a classical harmonic oscillator model using a driving force which includes both electronic and lattice contributions. In particular, the pressure of hot free electrons contributes significantly in driving the coherent acoustic phonons under nonequilibrium conditions when electrons and phonons are not thermalized.
Rehabilitative needs of individuals with spinal cord injury resulting from gun violence: The perspective of nursing and rehabilitation professionals

Gunshot wounds are the third-leading cause of spinal cord injury (SCI) in the United States, accounting for 1,500-2,000 injuries annually, predominantly among young urban males. Timely and comprehensive rehabilitation is however essential to produce successful functional recovery and social reintegration. This qualitative exploratory study determines how rehabilitation professionals view the rehabilitation process of violently acquired SCI survivors and the challenges to meet rehabilitative needs. Eleven professionals from various professions described psychological, social, and economic barriers in the rehabilitation process. Achieving positive outcomes is hampered by a lack of information about resources, access to vocational rehabilitation, peer support, and accessible housing options after discharge.
Phycobiliproteins encapsulated in sol-gel glass

Light transducing phycobiliproteins are encapsulated in optically transparent sol-gel matrices. Absorption and fluorescence spectroscopies are used to characterize the effect of the sol-gel encapsulation on the conformation and aggregation states of the three major phycobiliproteins present in phycobilisomes: phycoerythrin, phycocyanin, and allophycocyanin. It is found that the effects of sol-gel entrapment on the spectroscopic properties are significantly different for the three phycobiliproteins. The results indicate that phycoerythrin undergoes only minor change in its native structure when entrapped in sol-gel. However, significant changes in conformation and aggregation state occur when phycocyanin and allophycocyanin are entrapped in sol-gel matrices. A thin film of sol-gel encapsulated phycoerythrin is also coated on an optical fiber surface and strong fluorescence from the evanescent wave excitation is detected. The potential applications of sol-gel encapsulated phycobiliproteins in biosensors are discussed.
ANTIBODY IMMUNOTHERAPY OF GRAM-NEGATIVE BACTERIAL SEPSIS IN AN IMMUNOSUPPRESSED ANIMAL MODEL

Leukopenic, immunosuppressed recipients of solid organ allografts are at high risk for gram-negative bacterial sepsis, and mortality remains unacceptably high (greater than 30%). The purpose of this study was to determine whether murine monoclonal antibody (MAb) directed against lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin) would reduce lethality caused by a septic insult in immunosuppressed mice, and to determine if a specific antibody class would prove more efficacious in this setting. Two MAbs (3-H9, IgG3; 7-B5, IgM) were selected that reacted by ELISA, immunodot blot, and Western blot analysis against the O antigen polysaccharide portion of Escherichia coli 0111:B4 LPS. The 3-H9 MAb, 7B-5 MAb, or sterile saline was administered i.v. to normal or neutropenic Swiss-Webster mice immediately prior to an E coli 0111:B4 bacterial (i.v. or i.p. plus hemoglobin) or LPS (i.v.) challenge. In normal mice, administration of 3-H9 MAb or 7-B5 MAb i.v. immediately prior to a bacterial or endotoxin challenge resulted in a significant increase in the LD50. Neutropenia lowered the LD50 by nearly one log10 in both the bacteremia and peritonitis models. Both MAbs provided similar protection, raising the LD50 one log10 in neutropenic mice. Thus neutropenic animals receiving either MAb had a mortality nearly identical to that of normal animals receiving saline. No significant difference between the protective capacity of these MAbs was noted in any of the three models. These studies demonstrate that MAbs directed against LPS exert protection during gram-negative bacterial sepsis in either normal or neutropenic animals. In addition, the particular IgG and IgM MAbs examined provided similar protective capacity. Antibody directed against LPS may provide an additive form of therapy that may serve to decrease lethality during clinical gram-negative sepsis in immunosuppressed patients.
Regulation of a lightweight high efficiency capacitor diode voltage multiplier DC-DC converter

A method for the regulation of a capacitor diode voltage multiplier dc-dc converter has been developed which has only minor penalties in weight and efficiency. An auxiliary inductor is used, which only handles a fraction of the total power, to control the output voltage through a pulse width modulation method in a buck boost circuit.