cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recessive-lethal nonsense suppressors in Salmonella typhimurium

A recessive-lethal UGA suppressor and a recessive-lethal amber suppressor have been characterized in strains of Salmonella typhimurium merodiploid for the ilvmetE region of the chromosome. Both suppressors are greater than 50% efficient and both are co-transducible with ilvE. The suppressors can be transduced into haploid strains but the transductants are unstable and appear to contain duplications of the sup locus. The amber suppressor and the UGA suppressor appear to arise from a common gene.
The Services Paradigm: Who Can You Trust?

Today, the difference between software and services is murky in the wake of a new trend: the blending of physical and nonphysical systems. This new view of services is distinct in that it incorporates software (nonphysical), hardware (physical), and environment (physical and nonphysical). In this paper, with respect to software services, the trust in the old fashioned way is viewed: "assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something", which is very important in this new services economy and with new services technologies
Partial Analysis of Milk Triglycerides with Lipase Iodine131 Retention in Calves

Abstract The microorganism Geotrichum candidum (GC) produces an extracellular lipase highly specific for oleic acid in both natural and synthetic triglycerides (TG) (1, 2). Oleate was removed from the latter, regardless of position. The enzyme also differentiated between geometric isomers releasing about 95M% oleate (in the free fatty acids) from glyceryl 1-elaidate 2, 3-dioleate and from margarine (7). The utility of the pancreatic lipase method for studying TG structure encouraged us to determine whether GC lipase could be used for the same purpose with milk fat. The results are reported herein. Butteroil was obtained by churning cream, melting the butter, and Altering the clear oily layer. To provide a standard substrate for comparisons in several of our investigations, quantities of 15–20g were dispensed in screw-top tubes and stored at −20C. As needed, samples were melted and purified on an alumina column, the process monitored by thin-layer chromatography (TLC). The butteroil (0.5g per 8ml) was dispersed with a Waring Blendor, in phosphate buffer (pH 6.7), containing 1% gum arabic to which were added 0.5ml of 1% CaCl 2 and 25mg of enzyme preparation in two milliliters of plain phosphate buffer.
Rabies subunit vaccines.

Conclusions The secondary and tertiary structures of the rabies virus spike G protein are important for its ability to induce VN antibodies and confer immunity to the host. For a subunit peptide vaccine to be as effective as the native spike G protein, it would appear that the amino acid sequence comprising the antigenic determinant for VN antibody binding must be made to fold properly even when deprived of its native support structure. Since CNBr peptides have retained at least some of their antigenicity for binding antibodies from hyperimmune serum but not monoclonal VN antibodies, and their immunogenicity, then synthetic peptides containing corresponding sequences should show similar activities. Additionally, determinants that might be necessary for stimulating T lymphocytes would have to be built into the synthetic peptide preparation. It would also appear that a properly folded peptide might have to be aggregated into suitably large particles for it to achieve its full protective effect. Adjuvants may serve in this capacity to enhance the immune response to relevant peptides and thus improve the immunogenicity of a subunit vaccine that ultimately protects animals and humans against rabies virus infection.
An Evaluation of Federal Policies Concerning Joint Ventures for Applied Research and Development

Current federal policies toward interfirm cooperation in research and development are designed to maximize society's use of available technology. Models of industry resource allocation behavior demonstrate that these policies are detrimental to the formation of risk sharing consortia for the development of new technology. The reason is that current policies often deprive applied research and development activities of their appropriability. Analytical results suggest that, if appropriability is maintained, an underinvestment in applied research and development can be corrected, in most cases, simply by permitting firms to share the benefits and costs of projects in proportion to firms' investments. A permissive governmental posture may be particularly effective for industries consisting of a large number of firms with some firms relatively larger than others. Industries consisting of small numbers of relatively equal size firms may require government as a participant in consortia for applied research and development appropriable but risky R&D activities.
Volume and Grain Boundary Diffusion of Hf in Polycrystalline Er2 O3

Hafnium diffusion was measured in polycrystalline Er2O3 with two impurity levels. A tracer sectioning technique was used and the diffusion coefficients were measured at 1601° to 1970°C. Volume diffusion of Hf showed both extrinsic and intrinsic behavior, with the transition temperature increasing with the impurity level present in Er2O3. The grain boundary diffusion was apparently extrinsic over the entire temperature interval.
Independent measurement of strain and sensor failure features in Bragg grating sensors through multiple mode coupling

This article presents the interrelated measurements of Bragg reflection, cladding and radiation modes to obtain the applied strain and integrity of a short period Bragg grating sensor. While the Bragg reflection is known to be sensitive to applied strain, the relative strength of the cladding and radiation mode coupling is shown to be sensitive to damage such as debonding from the host structure. Furthermore, the length of the Bragg grating debonded from the surrounding medium is quantitatively related to the coupling to continuum radiation modes from the core mode. While the sensitivity of the radiation mode coupling to microcracking in the optical fiber is shown to be relatively low, maximum intensity measurements provide sufficient information on local fractures of the optical fiber. These results provide intelligent self-diagnostic capabilities within the Bragg grating sensor without additional measurements, and also permit the separate identification of sensor failure from the failure of the host structure.
CYTOCHEMICAL AND ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC STUDIES OF RAT LIVER WITH REDUCED CAPACITY TO TRANSPORT CONJUGATED BILIRUBIN

Although the livers of rats treated with agents known to suppress bilirubin transport appeared relatively normal on routine histological sections, cytochemical and electron microscopic preparations revealed marked changes in: ( a ) levels of alkaline phosphatase and apparent ATPase activities of the cell membrane at the sinusoids, bile canaliculi, and between adjacent cells; ( b ) morphology of the bile canaliculi such as dilatation, fragmentation, vesiculation and reduced numbers of microvilli; ( c ) the number of lysosomes and their distribution within the cell. Similar changes in the cytochemistry of the liver cell were induced by extrahepatic obstruction.
Learning Vocabulary Different Ways for Different Goals

Although no best method of vocabulary instruction has been identified, certain features have been recognized as characterizing vocabulary instruction that improves comprehension. These features include multiple exposures to words in various contexts and engaging students in active thinking about word meanings. In this article, effects of a vocabulary instructional program containing these features are discussed and compared with instruction that offers only definitional information. The design of a vocabulary program for intermediate grades is then discussed. The emphasis here is that activities developed depend on the goal of instruction, the nature of the words taught, and the characteristics of the learners.
The Pseudorabies Virus VP22 Homologue (UL49) Is Dispensable for Virus Growth In Vitro and Has No Effect on Virulence and Neuronal Spread in Rodents

The tegument of herpesvirus virions is a distinctive structure whose assembly and function are not well understood. The herpes simplex virus type 1 VP22 tegument protein encoded by the UL49 gene is conserved among the alphaherpesviruses. Using cell biology and viral genetics, we provide an initial characterization of the pseudorabies virus (PRV) VP22 homologue. We identified three isoforms of VP22 present in PRV-infected cells that can be resolved by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The predominant form is not phosphorylated and is present in virions, while the other two species are phosphorylated and excluded from virions. VP22 localized to the nucleus by 6 h postinfection, as determined by immunofluorescence and cell fractionation. VP22 immunofluorescence in the nucleus was both diffuse and in punctate structures. The punctate nuclear localization was the most pronounced form of staining and did not localize exclusively to sites of viral DNA replication. Unexpectedly, a VP22 null mutant had no obvious phenotypes during tissue culture infections and was similar to the wild type in all respects. Moreover, the VP22 null mutant was as virulent and neuroinvasive as the wild-type virus after infection of the rodent eye and spread to the brain using both anterograde and retrograde neuronal circuits.
High-precision magnetic levitation stage for photolithography

Abstract In this paper, we present a high-precision magnetic levitation (maglev) stage for photolithography in semiconductor manufacturing. This stage is the world’s first maglev stage that provides fine six-degree-of-freedom motion controls and realizes large (50 mm × 50 mm) planar motions with only a single magnetically levitated moving part. The key element of this stage is a linear motor capable of providing forces in both suspension and translation without contact. The advantage of such a stage is that the mechanical design is far simpler than competing conventional approaches and, thus, promises faster dynamic response and higher mechanical reliability. The stage operates with a positioning noise as low as 5 nm rms in x and y , and acceleration capabilities in excess of 1 g (10 m/s 2 ). We demonstrate the utility of this stage for next-generation photolithography or in other high-precision motion control applications.
The anatomy and neurophysiology of pelvic pain.

The cause of chronic pelvic pain may be characterized as isceral or somatic. Visceral disorders can arise in geniourinary or gastrointestinal organs, such as endometriosis, dhesions, ovarian masses, pelvic inflammatory disease, alignancies, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome. hus all visceral structures of the pelvis (bladder, terminal reters, urethra, ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, vagina, igmoid colon, rectum, and associated vasculature and lymhatic structures) can give rise to pain in the pelvic and ower abdominal regions. Pelvic pain also can originate rom somatic structures such as pelvic bones, ligaments, uscles, and fascia and can be referred to body wall utaneous sensory dermatomes. A thorough understanding f the convergence and interplay between the different neual pathways innervating pelvic visceral and somatic strucures is important in the clinical assessment of patients with hronic pelvic pain. Although pelvic neuroanatomy can be uite complex, this outline will emphasize basic principles.
A Generalized Confidence Region for Stress-Strength Reliability

Consider a system which consists of primary and secondary members having strength X and Z respectively. For this system subject to a stress Y the reliability function is: Pr{X + Z > Y|Z = z}. A distribution-free simultaneous lower confidence region for this reliability based on the generalized Kolmogorov-Smirnov distance using empirical reliability is constructed. To avoid tedious computations a conservative confidence region is presented. The proposed method provides more precise information about the reliability of the system than is afforded by the existing methods. Numerical results for implementation are given along with an example.
Changes in the Proportion of Precipitation Occurring as Snow in New England (1949–2000)

Abstract The ratio of snow to total precipitation (S/P) is a hydrologic indicator that is sensitive to climate variability and can be used to detect and monitor hydrologic responses to climatic change. Changes in S/P ratio over time could influence the magnitude and timing of spring runoff and recession to summer baseflow. The S/P ratio for 21 U.S. Historical Climatology Network sites in New England was examined. Eleven out of twenty-one sites in New England had significant decreasing annual S/P ratios from 1949 to 2000. Annual trends in S/P are predominantly a result of decreasing snowfall, and to a lesser extent, increasing rainfall. The most consistent trends were in northernmost New England where all four sites had decreasing ratios, and in the coastal and near-coastal areas where five out of eight sites had significantly decreasing ratios. The four sites in northernmost New England, which had the strongest and most coherent trends, showed an average decrease in annual S/P ratio from about 0.30 in 194...
Landscape Patterns of Vegetation Canopy Regrowth Following Wildfires in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California

Rapid recovery of pioneer shrub and forest patch cover can reduce soil erosion, nutrient runoff and degradation of stream habitats, and promote small mammal and avian biodiversity following stand-replacing wildfires. Landsat imagery from the past 25+ years was analyzed to understand patterns and rates of vegetation recovery, focusing on high burn severity (HBS) patches, within wildfire areas dating from the late 1940s in the Sierra-Nevada region of California. Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) levels indicative of recovered woody cover within HBS areas were analyzed starting in 1985 to quantify regrowth of patch dynamics. Analysis of landscape metrics showed that the percentage of total HBS area comprised by the largest patch of recovered woody cover was relatively small in all fires that occurred since 1995, but increased rapidly with time since fire. Patch complexity of recovered woody cover decreased notably after more than 50 years of regrowth, but was not readily associated with time for fires that occurred since the mid 1990s. Patch complexity of dense woody cover was consistently high in fires after 1995 and increased with the elevation of HBS areas. The aggregation level of patches with recovery of woody cover increased steadily with time since fire. The study approach using satellite remote sensing can be expanded to assess the consequences of stand-replacing wildfires in all forests of the region.
Using minority carrier lifetime measurement to determine saw damage characteristics on Si wafer surfaces

The damage on the Si wafer surfaces, caused by ingot cutting, is determined from measurement of minority carrier lifetime (τeff). Samples are sequentially etched to remove thin layers from each surface and lifetime is measured after each etch step. The thickness-removed at which the lifetime reaches a peak value corresponds to the damage depth. This technique also allows the depth distribution of the damage to be quantified in terms of surface recombination velocity (SRV). An accurate measurement of τeff requires corrections to optical reflection, and transmission to account for changes in the surface morphology and in the wafer thickness.
Abstract 168: The Acceleration of Foam Cell Formation by Chlamydia Pneumoniae Requires Nlrp3 Inflammasome Activation and Il-1 Signaling

Background & Objective: Foam cell formation (FCF) due to excessive accumulation of cholesterol by macrophages is a pathological hallmark of atherosclerosis. Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cp) promotes FCF in the presence of oxLDL, but the exact molecular mechanisms are still not completely delineated. Recent data indicates that the Nlrp3 inflammasome plays an important role in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Here we investigated the role of the Nlrp3 inflammasome during the acceleration of FCF by Cp infection. Methods and Results: In order to determine if the NLRP3 inflammasome played a role in Cp infection induced acceleration of FCF, we treated resident peritoneal macrophages exposed to oxLDL and Cp with the IL-1R antagonist, Anakinra, to block IL-1 signaling. Treatment with Anakinra resulted in a significant reduction in FCF. Nlrp3-/-, Casp1-/-, and WT macrophages were also treated with live Cp in the presence or absence of oxLDL. We found that Nlrp3-/- and Casp1-/- macrophages had significantly less FCF compared with WT cells. Interestingly, both ABCA1 (cholesterol efflux transporter) and its transcription factor, liver X receptor (LXR-α), were increased in Nlrp3-/- and Casp1-/- macrophages compared with WT cells. Addition of rIL-1β to Nlrp3-/- macrophages led to a decrease in ABCA1 expression and greater FCF. Importantly, Il1r-/- macrophages also had greater ABCA1 expression and reduced FCF when exposed to oxLDL and Cp infection. Conclusion: These data suggest that Cp infection facilitates foam cell formation in the presence of oxLDL by producing NLRP3 dependent IL-1 cytokines, which then feed back on the macrophages and interferes with cholesterol efflux by negatively regulating ABCA1. In the absence of IL-1 signaling, the expression of ABCA1 is upregulated leading to greater cholesterol efflux and reduced FCF. Thus we have identified a novel regulatory loop controlling FCF. Understanding these interacting pathways will lead to new therapeutic strategies against atherosclerosis.
Adaptive wind feedforward control of an Unmanned Surface Vehicle for station keeping

Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) have widespread commercial, scientific and military applications. In some of these applications station keeping is essential. Since USVs have a bigger surface/ weight ration than large commercial ships, they are more sensitive to wind disturbances, especially during station keeping. The modeling, identification and control of a 4.9 meter long, 180 kilogram wave adaptive modular vehicle (WAM-V) USV are presented in this paper. The propulsion system of the USV is custom designed with two azimuthing thrusters, making the USV fully actuated. System identification tests were conducted to get the precise model of the USV. A sliding mode controller was first applied to the USV and a wind feedforward controller was designed to aid the nonlinear feedback control to mitigate wind disturbance. For the feedforward controller design, a wind model was formulated that uses the apparent wind speed and direction collected from a high accuracy anemometer. A model based adaptive mechanism was developed to tune the feedforward control gains for the best performance. Station keeping field tests were conducted at a location with an average wind speed of 9 knots. The results show that with the tuned feedforward controller, the USV can hold its position and heading better over extended periods of time than a single feedback controller.
Abstract A83: Effects on serum testosterone and indicators of apoptosis and the IGF axis of soy protein isolate consumption in a randomized controlled trial with men after radical prostatectomy

Soy consumption may prevent prostate cancer and be beneficial for men with prostate cancer as suggested by epidemiologic and experimental data. However, the mechanisms by which soy might be protective are not clear, but effects on apoptosis, the insulin growth factor [IGF] axis, and steroid hormones may be involved. We have examined these factors in a randomized controlled clinical trial in which we are testing the hypothesis that soy reduces biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy. A standardized soy protein supplement and a casein‐based placebo are consumed daily by men at elevated risk for PSA failure during the first 2 years after surgery. The soy protein isolate and placebo (Solae) were made identical in composition, except for the source of protein (20 g protein/day). The soy protein isolate provides 24 to 26 mg genistein and 40 to 43 mg of total isoflavones per day. The placebo is devoid of these and other soy‐specific constituents. Self‐reported compliance is excellent, serum isoflavones levels are measured as an independent compliance measure, dropout rate is low, and adverse effects minimal to non‐existent. In serum samples taken at baseline, and at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 18 months from subsets of subjects we determined indicators of global apoptotic activity (soluble Fas [sFas] and Fas ligand [FasL]) and the IGF axis (IGF‐1 and IGF binding protein 3 [IGFBP3]) (7–8 subjects/treatment group), and measures of androgen status, testosterone [T] and sex hormone binding globulin [SHBG] (12 subjects/group) using ELISA and enzyme immuno‐assays. Data were analyzed using Generalized Estimating Equations. FasL increased slightly over time (p=0.05), but sFas did not and there were no differences in change over time for sFAs and FasL between the soy and placebo groups. Similarly, IGF‐1 increased slightly over time (p=0.06), but IGFBP3 did not and there were no differences in change over time for IGF‐1 and IGFBP3 between the soy and placebo groups. In contrast, T levels decreased significantly (p=0.05) from baseline over time by approx. 15% in the soy group compared to placebos, in which T levels did not change over time. SHBG levels were not changed over time or different between the two treatment groups. While data in the literature about soy effects on T and SHBG are mixed, this is the first report of soy effects on circulating T and SHBG with repeated serum sampling over as long as 1.5 years. It is also the first report about soy effects on serum sFas and FasL, while the absence of effects on the IGF axis is in line with other studies that have examined this. Thus, consuming 20 g of soy protein isolate per day for 1.5 years slightly reduced circulating T over time in the absence of changes in SHBG, but did not affect indicators of apoptosis and the IGF axis. (Supported by NIH grants CA27790 & CA166195 and a grant from the Prevent Cancer Foundation.) Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2010;3(1 Suppl):A83.
17 Red Blood Cell Transfusions in Children

All our cells need oxygen for their metabolism. Oxygen delivery is dependant on cardiac output, hemoglobin and arterial blood saturation. Therefore, red blood cells (RBC) transfusions could seem to be the best therapy to increase oxygen delivery in critically ill children. However, RBC transfusions are associated with an increased morbidity and mortality. This might be due to the storage lesions, which decrease the stored RBC’s ability to transport oxygen in the microcirculation, and modify their immunomodulative properties. Therefore, one must carefully select the patients for whom the benefits will be greater than the risks. For unstable critically ill children, it is usually recommended to transfuse for a Hb threshold of 100 g/l, after correcting the cardiac output. For critically ill children, it is recommended to transfuse for a Hb threshold of 70 g/L. This threshold has also been validated for septic patients as well as surgery and cardiac surgery patients. For single-ventricle physiology patients, it seems reasonable to transfuse RBC units for a threshold of 90 g/L. For neonates, a higher threshold is used (Hb 120–140 g/L if FiO2 > 40%, Hb 100 g/L if FiO2 RBC transfusions are a common treatment, but one must be aware of the associated risks and the appropriate transfusion indications, in order to prevent unnecessary morbidity and mortality.
The Use of Radio-Frequency Activated Gas Treatment to Improve Bondability

Abstract Two apparent contradictions are indicated in comparing recent work with previous work in the field of adhesion. The first contradiction concerns the significance of a weak boundary layer in adhesion failure. Bikerman and Hansen infer the presence of a weak boundary layer and imply that its removal is necessary to improve adhesion. Yet, neither its presence nor its removal are confirmed experimentally. Recent work with RTV silicone confirms experimentally the presence of a material meeting the definition of a weak boundary layer before and after the radio—frequency activated oxygen treatment, which improves adhesion. These results indicate that a possible bonding mechanism involves desorption or displacement of the weak bondary layer and preferential adsorption of the adhesive to form the bond. The other contradiction involves the report by Hansen and Schonhorn that the “CASING” treatment improves adhesion to poly (ethylene) without changing surface energy characteristics. Three laboratories repor...
Cardiometabolic risk profile based on body mass index in American Indian children and adolescents

SummaryBackground Childhood obesity is associated with increased cardiometabolic risk. Objective To study the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and cardiometabolic risk factors in American Indian children and adolescents. Methods Differences in metabolic variables by age and sex-specific BMI percentiles (2000 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Growth Charts) were examined in a cross-sectional analysis of 2977 individuals across three age categories. Children with an exam in two consecutive age categories were included in a longitudinal analysis. Spearman's correlations were used to test the association of BMI percentile with anthropometric and biochemical variables. Results Body mass index percentile correlated with systolic (r = 0.24 to 0.38) and diastolic (r = 0.13 to 0.22) blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose (r = 0.20 to 0.33), 2-h plasma glucose (r = 0.30 to 0.46), total cholesterol (r = 0.12 to 0.23), serum triglycerides (r = 0.40 to 0.51) and HDL cholesterol (r = −0.36 to −0.43) in each age group (5–9, 10–13 and 14–17 years). Among participants examined in multiple age categories, BMI percentile increased over time. Change in BMI percentile from one age category to the next was associated with an increase in fasting glucose, 2-h glucose and triglycerides and a decrease in HDL cholesterol. Conclusion Higher BMI was associated with blood pressure elevation, hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia in American Indian children and adolescents.
Framing Sarah Palin: Pit Bulls, Puritans, and Politics by Linda Beail and Rhonda Kinney LongworthWomen and the White House: Gender, Popular Culture, and Presidential Politics edited by Justin S. Vaughn and Lilly J. Goren

In recent years several women have run high-profile campaigns for the top offices in the United States. In response, scholars have increasingly focused their attention on the unique challenges faci...
Alloplastic Soft Tissue Support: An Overview and Clinical Experience.

Control over wound healing in terms of a strong yet durable repair or modulation of the scar response has been the goal of plastic surgeons since the first wound was closed. There has always been the need for soft tissue support, whether the support is for sutures to close wounds, autogenous dermal or fascial grafts, or more recently, alloplastic materials. Within this supplement to Aesthetic Surgery Journal , we explore two distinctively different solutions for alloplastic soft tissue support that we think will be of interest to readers and useful in their clinical practices. ### Alloplastic Soft Tissue Support Options Many factors influence the choice of surgical approach and the specific product used for soft tissue support and repair. The goal is to improve long-term outcomes while minimizing complications and recurrences requiring further revision surgery. As the reader would imagine, there are many different products that have been developed historically for soft tissue support (Figure 1). Not all of these are suitable for the needs of plastic surgery patients, and all of them have their specific limitations. The basic science of these products is intriguing, and this supplement afforded us the opportunity to consider this and showcase some of our own clinical outcomes to add to the information presented. Figure 1. Alloplastic soft tissue support options. “Other Origin” is the class of decellularized tissue made by whole organ perfusion, a new way to harvest the collagen matrix in organs while removing cellular tissue. Some products have a long shelf life and remain in place for years, such as polypropylene mesh or polytetrafluoroethylene. Others become vascularized by host tissues, such as acellular collagen matrix, dermal, or products of other origin.1 However, another class is present for some time and then absorbed by the host tissues, such as poly-4-hydroxybutyrate [P4HB], silk fibroin, and meshes derived from absorbable suture technology. …
Wenckebach Phenomenon in Left Bundle Branch Block

A 60-year-old patient had recurrent wide QRS complex tachycardia with a left bundle branch and normal axis pattern. The underlying mechanism was atrioventricular nodal reentry tachycardia. Besides the palpitation, there were no other symptoms. The cardiovascular examination was normal.
Revision Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Abstract Refractory chronic rhinosinusitis can be challenging to treat. Initial treatment focuses on medical and nonsurgical treatments. If these treatments fail, revision endoscopic sinus surgery is an option. A plan for revision surgery must address anatomic factors contributing to recurrence. Preoperative imaging and sinonasal endoscopy are systematically reviewed; areas of disease and "danger" zones are identified. Traditional anatomic landmarks are often obscured or absent; thus, a set of consistent landmarks (unchanged despite prior surgery) are used to navigate the revision endoscopic sinus surgery. Wide sinusotomies permit visualization and access to disease intraoperatively. Large sinus openings also facilitate post-operative debridements in clinic, endoscopic disease monitoring, and topical sinus therapy.
USING STOCHASTIC OPTIMAL CONTROL TO FIND SHORTEST PATHS IN NETWORKS

Abstract This paper describes a method for finding or approximating the distance of the shortest path through a network. The method is based on a special type of stochastic control model which identifies the optimal control as a permutation of system states. A computationally efficient algorithm for finding the optimal control is described, and then applied to several example problems. An advantage of this algorithm is that it can be programmed easily on a small digital computer.
Challenges in processor modeling and validation [Guest Editors' introduction]

The methodology for designing state-of-the-art microprocessors involves modeling at various levels of abstraction. In the pre-synthesis phase, this can range from early-stage (microarchitectural) performance-only models to final-stage, detailed register-transfer-level (RTL) models. Hierarchical modeling requires the use of an elaborate validation methodology to ensure inter- and intra-level model integrity. The RTL model, often coded in a hardware description language (e.g. Verilog or VHDL) captures the logical behavior of the entire chip: both in terms of function and cycle-by-cycle pipeline flow timing. It is this model that is subjected to simulation-based architectural validation prior to actual "tape-out" of the processor. The validated RTL specification is used as the source reference model for synthesizing the gate- and circuit-level descriptions of the processor.
Historical Perspectives on Diverse Asian American Communities: Immigration, Incorporation, and Education.

Background/ContextAsian Americans have recently been reported as the largest incoming immigrant population and the fastest growing racial group. Diverse in culture, tradition, language, and history...
Iconoclastic Dreams: Interpreting Art in the DREAMers Movement

ABSTRACTGiven the prominent role art has played historically as a means of collective action, resistance, and representation, we seek to examine the role of art within the DREAMers Movement. We are interested in what iconographic features operated in the art produced and their function in the mobilization process. It is at the intersection of art and social protest that activists and social movement organizers struggle with the articulation of coherent and cohesive representations. While at first glance our findings reiterate the significance of art in the construction of representation, we argue for the recognition of art as a visual dialogue and producer of language. More specifically, we maintain that art representations in social movements are a complex composition of both identity and context.
Analysis of Crowdsourced Images for Flooding Detection

Crowdsourced images taken at near ground-level present a new source of data for real-time flooding detection. In this new study, crowdsourced images taken in the city of Norfolk, Virginia are analyzed to extract the inundated area. In the proposed analysis, images of the same flooded roads in the crowdsourced images are obtained under dry conditions for comparison and detection of the flooding. Few preprocessing steps are used to normalize the image sets with and without flooding that are then registered considering the image without flooding as reference. After the registration, an algorithm pipeline is developed to extract the flooded area in the crowdsourced images. The method accounts for reflection on the standing water due to nearby landmarks and overhead clouds/sky. First, the flooded area with reflections from nearby landmarks on the water is identified. Then, the algorithm uses the detected flooded area as a seed to detect the rest of the flooding with reflections from overhead clouds/sky by using the saturation channel in hue, saturation, and value (HSV) color model. The proposed algorithm detects the flooded area as described above since the reference images are not able to detect areas with reflection from overhead clouds/sky. The novelty of the proposed algorithm involves using a new source of data, crowdsourced images, and detecting flooded area with reflection of nearby landmarks and overhead clouds/sky. The proposed algorithm is tested on real images and quantitative evaluation (detection and discrimination accuracy), based on a ground truth, is also presented to evaluate the proposed algorithm.
Intensity difference limens in adult CBA/CaJ mice (Mus musculus).

Abstract Mice have emerged as important models of auditory perception and acoustic communication. To study and model complex sound perception and communication, basic hearing abilities have to be established, yet intensity difference limens have not been measured in CBA/CaJ mice. Nine mice were trained using operant conditioning procedures with positive reinforcement to discriminate sound intensity across frequencies. Intensity difference limens were measured for 12, 16, 24, and 42 kHz tones at 10 and 30 dB sensation levels. Mice are capable of discriminating intensities across frequencies and sensation levels, but have higher intensity difference limens (IDLs) thresholds than other mammals.
Thermodynamic Hydricities of Biomimetic Organic Hydride Donors

Thermodynamic hydricities (ΔGH–) in acetonitrile and dimethyl sulfoxide have been calculated and experimentally measured for several metal-free hydride donors: NADH analogs (BNAH, CN-BNAH, Me-MNAH, HEH), methylene tetrahydromethanopterin analogs (BIMH, CAFH), acridine derivatives (Ph-AcrH, Me2N-AcrH, T-AcrH, 4OH, 2OH, 3NH), and a triarylmethane derivative (6OH). The calculated hydricity values, obtained using density functional theory, showed a reasonably good match (within 3 kcal/mol) with the experimental values, obtained using “potential pKa” and “hydride-transfer” methods. The hydride donor abilities of model compounds were in the 48.7–85.8 kcal/mol (acetonitrile) and 46.9–84.1 kcal/mol (DMSO) range, making them comparable to previously studied first-row transition metal hydride complexes. To evaluate the relevance of entropic contribution to the overall hydricity, Gibbs free energy differences (ΔGH–) obtained in this work were compared with the enthalpy (ΔHH–) values obtained by others. The results i...
Histone Modulation Blocks Treg-Induced Foxp3 Binding to the IL-2 Promoter of Virus-Specific CD8⁺ T Cells from Feline Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Cats.

CD8+ T cells are critical for controlling HIV infection. During the chronic phase of lentiviral infection, CD8+ T cells lose their proliferative capacity and exhibit impaired antiviral function. This loss of CD8+ T cell function is due, in part, to CD4+CD25+ T regulatory (Treg) cell-mediated suppression. Our research group has demonstrated that lentivirus-activated CD4+CD25+ Treg cells induce the repressive transcription factor forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) in autologous CD8+ T cells following co-culture. We have recently reported that Treg-induced Foxp3 binds the interleukin-2 (IL-2), interferon-γ (IFN- γ), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) promoters in virus-specific CD8+ T cells. These data suggest an important role of Foxp3-mediated CD8+ T cell dysfunction in lentiviral infection. To elucidate the mechanism of this suppression, we previously reported that decreased methylation facilitates Foxp3 binding in mitogen-activated CD8+ T cells from feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)-infected cats. We demonstrated the reduced binding of Foxp3 to the IL-2 promoter by increasing methylation of CD8+ T cells. In the studies presented here, we ask if another form of epigenetic modulation might alleviate Foxp3-mediated suppression in CD8+ T cells. We hypothesized that decreasing histone acetylation in virus-specific CD8+ T cells would decrease Treg-induced Foxp3 binding to the IL-2 promoter. Indeed, using anacardic acid (AA), a known histone acetyl transferase (HAT) inhibitor, we demonstrate a reduction in Foxp3 binding to the IL-2 promoter in virus-specific CD8+ T cells co-cultured with autologous Treg cells. These data identify a novel mechanism of Foxp3-mediated CD8+ T cell dysfunction during lentiviral infection.
Alkane Functionalization by Mercury Photosensitization

Alkanes, alcohols, ethers and silanes can be dimerised by mercury photosensitisation on a preparative scale. Alkane functionalisation can be effected by cross-dimerising an alkane with any of these substrates.
Radiocephalic Arteriovenous Fistula for Hemodialysis

Radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula is performed to provide access for chronic hemodialysis. This chapter describes indications, essential steps, variations, and complications of this procedure. It provides a detailed template operative note for the procedure.
Growth of Cloud Drops by Collision and Coalescence

As we have seen in Chapter 1, it has long been established that the presence of ice is not necessary for precipitation formation in tropical cumuli. Also, radar observations of clouds outside the tropics have shown that the formation of echoes, indicating the presence of precipitation, can occur at temperatures warmer than 0°C. In such cases the Wegener-Bergeron-Findeisen mechanism of precipitation formation (Section 13.3.1) is absent, and the flow of water up the spectrum from small droplets to rain must occur by the process of collision and coalescence. This is also often referred to as the collection process, or as the ‘warm rain’ process. The latter designation is somewhat inappropriate, since collection growth occurs also in clouds colder than 0°C. For example. Braham (1964) found evidence of collection growth of supercooled drops in summer cumuli over the central U.S.
Math connections in computer science

This panel will lead a discussion about the role and relevance of mathematics in undergraduate Computer Science education. We will explore the major question pertaining to math connections in computer science: "How can we make the math that C.S. students take more meaningful to their major?" The panelists will describe the approaches they have taken toward achieving this goal. Ralph Bravaco will discuss his experience integrating math and computer science via learning communities at Stonehill College. Michael Gousie will describe a new Foundations of Computing Theory course that has been added to the C.S. curriculum at Wheaton College. Bo Kim will discuss the two particularly difficult challenges of (1) teaching discrete math to students with a wide range of mathematical abilities, and (2) students' lack of enthusiasm for mathematics. Linda Wilkens will discuss strategic problems that are a consequence of recent trends in undergraduate enrollment including the rising numbers of undeclared students and the need to court students into the major.
Radiation anomaly detection and classification with Bayes Model Selection

Abstract We present a new method for radiation anomaly detection that is based on Bayes Model Selection (BMS), together with models for gamma-radiation measurements from benign and threat sources. The method estimates the relative odds of pairs of such models, with the aim of supporting related hypotheses about the nature of the underlying source material. We also discuss partial optimization of the parameters in the models. The method allows measurements to be broadly categorized and screened for sources of interest in real time, a property that should improve the efficiency of mobile search or unattended monitoring operations
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) of tissue and cell free DNA (cfDNA) to identify somatic and germline alterations in advanced prostate cancer.

5010Background: With the goal of accelerating enrollment onto appropriate clinical trials, we performed prospective genomic characterization of pts with advanced prostate cancer. Given the long nat...
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli-induced fibrosis, leading to lower urinary tract symptoms, is associated with type 2 cytokine signaling

Chronic inflammation and prostate fibrosis have been identified as contributors to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) pathophysiology in humans. It has been shown that transurethral infection of a...
Functional response of subordinate species to intraspecific trait variability within dominant species

Dominant species can act as a biotic filter in structuring plant communities by constraining the establishment and survival of subordinate species. The effect of intraspecific trait variability of dominant species on the functional response of subordinate species, however, is not well understood. We quantified intraspecific variation in four functional traits of 26 subordinate species in an experimental grassland established with two population sources (i.e. cultivars and local ecotypes) of three dominant grasses (Sorghastrum nutans, Andropogon gerardii and Schizachyrium scoparium) and three pools of subordinate species (each from one origin) within each of the dominant grass source treatments. Twenty of the 26 subordinate species exhibited intraspecific trait variability for one trait or more in response to dominant species population source, and variation among population sources of the dominant species was non‐random. Dominant grass population source affected intraspecific variability in functional traits of multiple subordinate species. Cultivar sources of the dominant grasses and some of the subordinate species that established with them had higher and generally more variable functional leaf area and leaf nitrogen content compared to local ecotypes of the dominant grasses and the subordinate species that established with them. Local ecotype sources of the dominant grasses increased leaf area based functional diversity of subordinate species. Synthesis. This study provides evidence that intraspecific trait variability in dominant species acts as a biotic filter to constrain niche availability and dimensionality affecting trait variation of subordinate species during community assembly.
Temporal Lobe Epilepsy

Complex partial seizures, previously called psychomotor seizures, are brief, episodic changes in mental status and behavior directly associated with the paroxysmal discharge of epileptic foci in the temporal lobes. Long-term, enduring changes in personality and emotionality, referred to as the “interictal behavior syndrome” or “temporal lobe syndrome,” often appear between seizures in patients who have epileptic foci in the temporal lobe. Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) describes the conglomeration of complex partial seizures, the interictal behavior syndrome, and other associated problems.
A Framework for Retrieving a Time-Varying Effective Scattering Albedo from Satellite Microwave Measurements

Current satellite soil moisture retrieval algorithms require estimation techniques or a priori information about microwave vegetation properties, specifically the vegetation optical depth and single scattering albedo. Most approaches assume a constant single scattering albedo (ω), a function of canopy architecture and orientation, despite few investigations of this property. Here, dynamic ω is retrieved over cropland and natural landscape pixels with Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) brightness temperature measurements within the multi-temporal dual-channel algorithm using a moving window retrieval approach. A longer moving window length (number of overpasses with ω constant) is recommended to ensure adequate degrees of information for retrieval and to prevent spurious, rapid changes in ω. It was determined that the mean and standard deviation of both soil moisture and vegetation optical depth are reduced with increased ω. ω also interestingly decreased during the vegetation growth phase suggesting it may be an effective parameter absorbing other physics not accounted for in the zeroth-order radiative transfer equation.
Leopold von Sacher-Masoch y Marqués de Sade. Lógicas de la perversión desde de los conceptos “crítica” y “clínica” en el vitalismo de Gilles Deleuze

En la literatura de Sacer-Masoch y Sade, vida y obra parecen confundirse. Ese seria el precio a pagar por la experimentacion conjunta de cuerpo y escritura. Lo cierto es, como intentara plantearse, que la unidad que conforman vida y escritura en las novelas de ambos se desplaza el horizonte de la vivencia personal. A partir de los conceptos de “critica” y “clinica” se mostrara como en cada caso se articula una logica de la perversion en que se pone en juego un vitalismo literario.
Functional Flexion Instability After Rotating-Platform Total Knee Arthroplasty

Background We sought to define "at risk" loading conditions associated with rotating-platform total knee arthroplasty (TKA-RP) implants that predispose to insert subluxation and spinout and to quantify tolerances for flexion-extension gap asymmetry and laxity in order to prevent these adverse events. Methods Biomechanical testing was performed on 6 fresh-frozen cadaveric limbs with a TKA-RP implant with use of a gap-balancing technique, followed by sequential femoral component revision with variable-thickness polyethylene inserts to systematically represent 5 flexion-extension mismatch and asymmetry conditions. Each configuration was subjected to mechanical loading at 0°, 30°, and 60°. Rotational displacement of the insert on the tibial baseplate, lateral compartment separation, and insert concavity depth were measured with use of a digital caliper. Yield torque, a surrogate for ease of insert rotation and escape of the femoral component, was calculated with use of custom MATLAB code. Results Design-intended insert rotation decreased with increasing knee flexion angles in each loading configuration. Likewise, yield torque increased with increasing joint flexion and decreased with increasing joint laxity in all testing configurations. Insert instability and femoral condyle displacement were reproduced in positions of increasing knee flexion and asymmetrical flexion gap laxity. The depth of lateral polyethylene insert concavity determined femoral condylar capture and defined a narrow tolerance of Conclusions Decreased femoral-tibial articular surface conformity with increasing knee flexion and asymmetrical flexion gap laxity enable paradoxical motion of the femoral component on the upper insert surface rather than the undersurface, as designed. Clinical relevance Mobile-bearing TKA-RP is a technically demanding procedure requiring a snug symmetrical flexion gap. As little as 2 mm of asymmetrical lateral flexion laxity can result in decreased conformity, condyle liftoff, and insert subluxation. Flexion beyond 30° decreases bearing surface contact area and predisposes to reduced insert rotation and mechanical malfunction.