cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toward an Electromagnetic Event Resilient Grid

The threat of a large-scale electromagnetic event having a negative impact on the electric grid is real. Whether human-caused, via the detonation of a nuclear device, or natural, via a high-intensity burst of solar radiation, our historic experience with these phenomena indicates that as a global community, we should be prepared for such events and know how to mitigate their impacts. Current studies and related discussions provide a wide range of damage assessments for these events. We recommend continuing current technical investigations and research as well as strengthening collaboration between stakeholders and experts. This would ensure future threats are addressed in a timely and effective manner.
DDN2.0: R and Python packages for differential dependency network analysis of biological systems

Summary Data-driven differential dependency network analysis identifies in a complex and often unknown overall molecular circuitry a network of differentially connected molecular entities (pairwise selective coupling or uncoupling depending on the specific phenotypes or experimental conditions) (Herrington, et al. 2018; Zhang, et al., 2009; Zhang and Wang, 2010; Zhang, et al., 2016). Such differential dependency networks are typically used to assist in the inference of potential key pathways. Based on our previously developed Differential Dependency Network (DDN) method, we report here the fully implemented R and Python software tool packages for public use. The DDN2.0 algorithm uses a fused Lasso model and block-wise coordinate descent to estimate both the common and differential edges of dependency networks. The identified DDN can help to provide plausible interpretation of data, gain new insight of disease biology, and generate novel hypotheses for further validation and investigations. To address the imbalanced sample group problem, we propose a sample-size normalized formulation to correct systematic bias. To address high computational complexity, we propose four strategies to accelerate DDN2.0 learning. The experimental results show that new DDN2.0+ learning speed with combined four accelerating strategies is hundreds of times faster than that of DDN2.0 algorithm on medium-sized data (Fu, 2019). To detect intra-omics and inter-omics network rewiring, we propose multiDDN using a multi-layer signaling model to integrate multi-omics data. The simulation study shows that the multiDDN method can achieve higher accuracy of detecting network rewiring (Fu, 2019).
Electro-oxidation to convert dissolved organic nitrogen and soluble non-reactive phosphorus to more readily removable and recoverable forms.

Abstract Conventional wastewater treatment processes cannot effectively remove dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) and soluble non-reactive phosphorus (sNRP), which can pose regulatory compliance challenges for total nitrogen and total phosphorus discharges. Moreover, DON and sNRP are not easily recoverable for beneficial reuse as part of the waste to resource paradigm. Conversion of DON and sNRP to more readily removable dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) and soluble reactive phosphorus (sRP), respectively, will help meet stringent nutrient limits and facilitate nutrient recovery. In this study, electro-oxidation (EO) was evaluated for conversion of four DON compounds to DIN and five sNRP compounds to sRP. EO was more efficient and provided higher extents of conversion of the recalcitrant nutrient fractions compared to a more traditional advanced oxidation process, UV/H2O2. Direct electron transfer was likely the dominant oxidation mechanism for EO-based DON and sNRP conversion, with DON being more recalcitrant. Among the DON compounds tested, greater availability of primary amine (C–N bonds) yielded greater conversion compared to compounds with fewer primary amine or those with secondary amine (C–N–C bond). Among the sNRP compounds tested, those with P–O–C bonds (organic sNRP) converted more readily than those with P–O–P bonds (inorganic sNRP), presumably because cleavage of the latter bond requires greater energy. Using 30 min of EO treatment, the highest DON and sNRP compound conversion was 11.7 ± 0.09% for urea and 31.1 ± 0.75% for beta-glycerol phosphate. A similar extent of EO-based conversion of DON (6.41 ± 1.5%) and sNRP (32.7 ± 3.3%) was observed in real wastewater.
Meditation skills for the mediation process: Complementary practices and epistemological considerations

This paper presents how meditation practices can be used throughout the mediation process. Skills for both mediators and disputants are presented. Additionally, different epistemological frameworks for mediation and meditation are provided and discussed. A postmodern critique of neoliberal ideals of individuals as objective and stable units independent of social context is presented. An approach of mediation and relational meditation is offered that acknowledges and incorporates cultural, historical, racial, gendered and other discourses as critical aspects to consider as the mediator facilitates alternative narratives and new relational positions for the participants. Regardless of one’s epistemological frameworks, this paper presents skills for all participants in the mediation process to practice deep listening, respectful communication, mindfulness and flexibility for achieving new resolutions.
Observability and Estimability Analysis of Geosynchronous Objects with Angles-Only Measurements

With easier access to space and mega-constellation plans, tracking the resident space object (RSO) population becomes a greater challenge. Efficiently obtaining the maximum possible knowledge from each RSO observation is required for improved propagation and identification. Observability and estimability have been used to mathematically define which parameters of a dynamical system can be determined with certain measurement types and to interpret how well the states are or can be estimated relative to one another. This work analyzes both observability, in a deterministic and in a stochastic sense, and estimability as measures to judge either a priori or a posteriori estimation results. The system of interest in this work is an RSO orbit with object characteristic information.
Comparative effectiveness of CRT in older patients with heart failure: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract Objective : To perform meta-analyses comparing safety and effectiveness of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in older versus younger patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Background : Pivotal CRT trials enrolled patients with HFrEF significantly younger than the typical contemporary patient with HFrEF. Thus, risks and benefits in this older population with HFrEF are largely unknown. Methods : PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science were queried for comparative effectiveness studies of CRT in older HFrEF patients. Title, abstract, and full text screening was performed to identify studies comparing at least one pre-specified endpoint between older and younger adult patients with at least 50 participants. Random effects meta-analysis in LVEF mean difference (older minus younger) and relative risk (RR) of death, improvement in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, and complications are reported along with estimates of heterogeneity. Results : In 7 studies, there was similar LVEF improvement between groups [mean difference 1.14; 95% CI -0.04 – 2.32, p=0.06, I 2 =53%]. Older patients were equally likely as younger patients to see an improvement in NYHA class of at least 1 in 6 studies [RR 0.99; 95% CI, 0.93 – 1.06; p=0.76; I 2 =25%]. No significant differences in the incidence of hematoma, pneumothorax, lead dislodgment, cardiac perforation, or infection requiring explant was observed. RR of mortality in 11 studies demonstrated higher risk of all-cause mortality in older patients [RR 1.05; 95% CI, 1.03 – 1.08, p Conclusions : Compared with younger patients, older patients receiving CRT were equally likely to experience improvement in LVEF, LVEDD, and NYHA class. There was no difference in procedural complications. The higher rate of all-cause mortality in older patients likely reflects a greater underlying risk of death from competing causes.
Discussion on "A Survey of Engine Development"

Mr. Nutt has given a very able and interesting paper on this subject. However, he has not covered one possibility which seems to me distinctly interesting at the present time. With the advent of the modern "clean" airplane with no external bracing and with retractible landing gear, the drag of air-cooled radial engines is likely to be from 20 to 30 percent of the total drag of the airplane in the high-speed condition. This is in spite of the use of the very best forms of cowling and the best engine and propeller position with reference to the wing, as determined by the work of the N.A.C.A. A consideration of these facts makes it of interest to consider the possibility of engines enclosed entirely within the wing structure. With the wing sizes now in vogue in multi-engined airplanes, it is obvious that the "enclosed" engine could not be of radial or Vee form. With a tractor propeller, the engine would normally be located near the thickest section of the wing and it might be possible to use a "flat X" cylinder arrangement. For pusher installations, however, the horizontal-opposed type seems preferable in order to minimize propeller-shaft length. This type could be made relatively "thin" at the rear, where it is housed near the trailing edge, and the accessories could be located forward where a greater wing thickness is available. The development of satisfactory enclosed power plants will depend not only on the development of satisfactory engines of proper form, but also on the satisfactory solution of the problems of cooling, mounting structure, accessibility, etc. Of these, cooling is probably the most difficult. If the engine is to be air-cooled, there is the problem of drawing in the air and discharging it where it will give minimum interference with wing and propeller performance. Tests made at M.I .T. -some years ago indicate that if circulation is obtained by virtue of the pressure differences existing between different parts of the wing surface, a prohibitive amount of drag would be involved. If air cooling is to be accomplished by utilizing airplane and slipstream velocities, the present radial engine with N.A.C.A. cowling probably involves as small an amount of over-all drag as any feasible arrangement. I t seems probable, therefore, that an enclosed air-cooled engine would require some sort of blower system. Such systems absorb a considerable portion of the engine power, and the net result might easily be poorer engine performance with respect to weight and drag than could be obtained by a suitable liquid-cooling system.
Rating Agencies and Financial Markets

Financial market instability has been the focus of attention of both academic and policy circles, with rating agencies being singled out as one of the culprits in fueling financial excesses. This paper examines whether sovereign ratings trigger turmoil in emerging markets. Our results indicate that rating changes contribute to market instability through three channels. First, they directly affect stock and bond markets of the countries being rated. Second, they contribute to contagion, triggering instability around the globe. Third, financial markets in countries with lower ratings are more affected by the fluctuations in international financial markets. Still, the effects are small.
Statistical Validation of Automated Probabilistic Segmentation against Composite Latent Expert Ground Truth in MR Imaging of Brain Tumors

The validity of segmentation is an important issue in image processing because it has a direct impact on surgical planning. Binary manual segmentation is not only time-consuming but also lacks the ability of differentiating subtle intensity variations among voxels, particularly for those on the border of a tumor and for different tumor types. Previously we have developed an automated segmentation method that yields voxel-wise continuous probabilistic measures, indicating a level of tumor presence. The goal of this work is to examine three accuracy metrics based on two-sample statistical methods, against the estimated composite latent ground truth derived from several experts' manual segmentation by a maximum likelihood algorithm. We estimated the distribution functions of the tumor and control voxel data parametrically by assuming a mixture of two beta distributions with different shape parameters. We derived the resulting receiver operating characteristic curves, Dice similarity coefficients, and mutual information, over all possible decision thresholds. Based on each validation metric, an optimal threshold was then computed via maximization. We illustrated these methods on MR imaging data from nine brain tumor cases, three with meningiomas, three astrocytomas, and three other low-grade gliomas. The automated segmentation yielded satisfactory accuracy, with varied optimal thresholds.
Rethinking Guardianship (Again): Substituted Decision Making as a Violation of the Integration Mandate of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act

In every state, when an adult has a diminished capacity to make decisions about personal affairs or property management, a court may transfer the individual’s right to make decisions to a guardian. This Article argues that, in most cases, it would be preferable to support decision making rather than supplant it through guardianship, and then seeks to locate a right to receive such support as a less restrictive alternative to the substituted decision making that characterizes guardianship. Building on the reasoning in Olmstead v. L.C. and subsequent decisions interpreting the Americans with Disabilities Act’s integration mandate, this Article argues that by limiting an individual’s right to make her own decisions, guardianship marginalizes the individual and often imposes a form of segregation that is not only bad policy, but also violates the ADA’s mandate to provide services in the most integrated and least restrictive manner. After discussing why recent reforms of state guardianship laws have proven inadequate, this Article conceptualizes guardianship as a form of disability-based discrimination and argues that Olmstead and the integration mandate are legitimately applied to the guardianship context. This Article then argues that states should be required to modify their current guardianship systems to provide decision-making support as a less restrictive form of assistance and suggests that such a modification would not necessitate a “fundamental program alteration.” Finally, this Article points to supported decision-making models that have been developed in other countries as less restrictive alternatives to guardianship that enhance the independence, autonomy, and inclusion of individuals with limitations in decision-making abilities. The hope is that this re-conceptualization of guardianship will further the development of a range of meaningful and effective alternatives for guardianship.
Deoxyribose 5-Phosphate Aldolase II. PURIFICATION AND PROPERTIES OF THE RAT LIVER ENZYME

Abstract Deoxyribose 5-phosphate aldolase was purified about 2000-fold from rat liver by ammonium sulfate fractionation and diethylaminoethyl cellulose and hydroxylapatite chromatography. The purified enzyme was free of triosephosphate isomerase. The Michaelis-Menten constants for acetaldehyde, d-glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate, and 2-deoxy-d-ribose 5-phosphate were found to be 2.67 x 10-4 m, 2.0 x 10-4 m, and 1.7 x 10-4 m, respectively. The equilibrium constant for the aldolase-catalyzed reaction was approximately 2 to 3 x 10-4 at pH 7.5 and 22°. The purified enzyme preparations were essentially inactive in the absence of a carboxylate ion activator such as citrate. Half-maximal activation of the enzyme by citrate, succinate, and glutarate occurred at 1 x 10-4 m, 2 x 10-4 m, and 5 x 10-4 m, respectively. The molecular weight of the purified enzyme was estimated to be 253,000 by sucrose density gradient techniques. Although the enzyme showed a marked tendency to aggregate to form a dimer and trimer, the presence of an activating carboxylate ion did not influence the observed aggregation.
Perirenal Fat Promotes Renal Arterial Endothelial Dysfunction in Obese Swine through Tumor Necrosis Factor-α

Purpose: Perirenal fat is associated with poor blood pressure control and chronic kidney disease but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. We tested the hypothesis that perirenal fat impairs renal arterial endothelial function in pigs with obesity-metabolic derangements.Materials and Methods: We studied 14 domestic pigs after 16 weeks of a high fat/high fructose diet (obesity-metabolic derangement group) or standard chow (lean group). Renal blood flow, glomerular ﬁltration rate and visceral fat volumes were studied in vivo by computerized tomography. Renal arterial endothelial function was also studied ex vivo in organ baths.Results: Pigs with obesity-metabolic derangements demonstrated increased body weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and intra-abdominal fat compared to lean pigs and perirenal fat volume was significantly larger. Renal blood flow and glomerular ﬁltration rate were markedly elevated while urinary protein level was preserved. Ex vivo acetylcholine induced, endothelium dependent vasodi...
A specification based intrusion detection framework for mobile phones

With the fast growth of mobile market, we are now seeing more and more malware on mobile phones. One common pattern of many commonly found malware on mobile phones is that: the malware always attempts to access sensitive system services on the mobile phone in an unobtrusive and stealthy fashion. For example, the malware may send messages automatically or stealthily interface with the audio peripherals on the device without the user's awareness and authorization. To detect the unauthorized malicious behavior, we present SBIDF, a Specification Based Intrusion Detection Framework, which utilizes the keypad or touchscreen interrupts to differentiate between malware and human activity. Specifically, in the proposed framework, we use an application independent specification, written in Temporal Logic of Causal Knowledge (TLCK), to describe the normal behavior pattern, and enforce this specification to all third party applications on the mobile phone during runtime by monitoring the inter-component communication pattern among critical components. Our evaluation of simulated behavior of real world malware shows that we are able to detect all forms of malware that attempts to access sensitive services without possessing user's permission. Furthermore, the SBIDF incurs a negligible overhead (20 µ secs) which makes it very feasible for real world deployment.
Seasonal variations of volcanic eruption frequencies

Do volcanic eruptions have a tendency to occur more frequently in the months of May and June? Some past evidence suggests that they do. The present study, based on the new eruption catalog of Simkin et al.(1981), investigates the monthly statistics of the largest eruptions, grouped according to explosive magnitude, geographical latitude, and year. At the 2-delta level, no month-to-month variations in eruption frequency are found to be statistically significant. Examination of previously published month-to-month variations suggests that they, too, are not statistically significant. It is concluded that volcanism, at least averaged over large portions of the globe, is probably not periodic on a seasonal or annual time scale.
Vesicle formation and trafficking in endothelial cells and regulation of endothelial barrier function.

Endothelial barrier function is regulated in part by the transcellular transport of albumin and other macromolecules via endothelial caveolae (i.e., this process is defined as transcytosis). Using pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells, we have identified the specific interactions between a cell surface albumin-docking protein gp60 and caveolin-1 as well as components of the signaling machinery, heterotrimeric G protein (Gi)- and Src-family tyrosine kinase. Ligation of gp60 on the apical membrane induces the release of caveolae from the apical membrane and activation of endocytosis. The formed vesicles contain the gp60-bound albumin and also albumin and other solutes present in the fluid phase. Vesicles are transported in a polarized manner to the basolateral membrane, releasing their contents by exocytosis into the subendothelial space. The signaling functions of Gi and Src are important in the release of caveolae from the plasma membrane. The Src-induced phosphorylation of caveolin-1 is crucial in regulating interactions of caveolin-1 with other components of the signaling machinery such as Gi, and key signaling entry of caveolae into the cytoplasm and endocytosis of albumin and other solutes. This review addresses the basis of transcytosis in endothelial cells, its central role as a determinant of endothelial barrier function, and signaling mechanisms involved in regulating fission of caveolae and trafficking of the formed vesicles from the luminal to abluminal side of the endothelial barrier.
The effect of solute structure on the nematic–isotropic transition in binary mixtures

Systematic thermodynamic and statistical-mechanical studies of nematic–isotropic (NI) phase equilibria in binary mixtures have provided significant information on the effects of molecular size, shape and flexibility on the orientational order and stability of nematic mesophases [1–3]. The addition of solute to a nematogenic solvent either depresses or elevates the NI transition temperature (TNI) of the pure solvent and gives a two-phase region. The phase diagram in the T −x2 plane T* = T/TNI; x2 = solute mole fraction) yields coexistence curves that are virtually linear for x2 < ∼0.10. Of interest is the negative of the slope of the lower phase-boundary line (nematic/nematic + isotropic), βN = −(dT/dx2)N, which is measure of the order-destroying (positive βN) or order-enhancing (negative βN) ability of a solute. Experimental βN results are presented for mixtures of quasispherical (tetra-n-alkyl tins), chain-like (n-alkanes) and rodlike (p-polyphenyls) solutes dissolved in nematogenic solvents (MBBA and 5CB). These results are compared with the predictions of lattice models, which stress the predominant role of repulsive interactions.
Clusters of basic amino acids contribute to RNA binding and nucleolar localization of ribosomal protein L22.

The ribosomal protein L22 is a component of the 60S eukaryotic ribosomal subunit. As an RNA-binding protein, it has been shown to interact with both cellular and viral RNAs including 28S rRNA and the Epstein-Barr virus encoded RNA, EBER-1. L22 is localized to the cell nucleus where it accumulates in nucleoli. Although previous studies demonstrated that a specific amino acid sequence is required for nucleolar localization, the RNA-binding domain has not been identified. Here, we investigated the hypothesis that the nucleolar accumulation of L22 is linked to its ability to bind RNA. To address this hypothesis, mutated L22 proteins were generated to assess the contribution of specific amino acids to RNA binding and protein localization. Using RNA-protein binding assays, we demonstrate that basic amino acids 80–93 are required for high affinity binding of 28S rRNA and EBER-1 by L22. Fluorescence localization studies using GFP-tagged mutated L22 proteins further reveal that basic amino acids 80–93 are critical for nucleolar accumulation and for incorporation into ribosomes. Our data support the growing consensus that the nucleolar accumulation of ribosomal proteins may not be mediated by a defined localization signal, but rather by specific interaction with established nucleolar components such as rRNA.
Death Education for Teachers A Refocused Concern Relative to Medically Fragile Children

Focuses on the roles and responsibilities of teachers concerning both their and their students' reactions to death
Effect of serum albumin on dynamic force-area curve of dipalmitoyl lecithin☆

In line with previous findings at 25°C, solutions of serum albumin in the subphase stabilized the surface activity of DPL spread films at 25°C as well as 37°C. In contrast, films adsorbed from mixtures of DPL and albumin exhibited a marked inhibitory action of the albumin on DPL activity. The inhibitory effect increased with the relative protein concentration but, with albumin/DPL ratios smaller than 2, the DPL activity was regained gradually with cycling. With larger albumin/DPL ratios the adsorbed films retained the albumin character permanently. The negative effect of albumin was counteracted by higher temperatures (37°C vs 25°C) and modest cholesterol concentrations; with greater cholesterol concentrations the known inhibitory effect of cholesterol prevailed. The inhibitory effect of albumin was potentiated by humidity; saturation of the atmosphere with water vapor at 37°C abolished the DPL character of DPL-RSA mixtures and prevented its return (zero surface tension) upon reversal of the atmosphere from saturated water vapor to dry air. The data are important in the interpretation of the surface activity of pulmonary washings and other pulmonary extracts.
Spectral Phenomena in Spark Discharges

Two methods are described for measuring the differences in the time of appearance of the spectrum lines in sparks. The first is a refinement of the Kerr cell method previously used and a detailed description of its use is included. The criticisms of Gaviola of the method are shown not to apply. The second method makes use of a rapidly rotating mirror which either reflects the dispersed light of the spark to a photographic plate or the undispersed light to the slit of a spectrograph. In either case the position of the beginning of a line on the photographic plate gives its time of appearance. The method of Henriot and Hunguenard was used to rotate the mirror. Photographs of sparks are shown with the mirror rotating 1830 r. p. s. However, higher rotational speeds have been used. It is concluded that the Kerr cell method is superior for examining the air lines in the initial stages of the spark; while the rotating mirror method is better in studying the appearance and duration of the metallic lines which are not present in the very first stages of the spark discharge.
Utility of the MCMI-II in assessing suicide risk.

The MCMI-II profiles of 40 psychiatric inpatients admitted for suicidal ideation and 40 patients admitted for a suicide attempt were compared. Subjects in each group were matched on sex, history of previous attempts, and other demographic variables. While the results indicate very few differences between the MCMI-II profiles of these two groups of patients, suicide attemptors scored significantly higher on Scale Y (Desirability), which suggests greater tendencies toward denial of problem areas. Patients with suicidal ideation yielded a mean profile with elevations on Scale 2 (Avoidant), 8A (Passive-Aggressive), 8B (Self-Defeating), C (Borderline), D (Dysthymia), and Z (Debasement). These results are discussed in terms of a stress-vulnerability model of suicidal behavior with suggestions made for expanding on the findings in future studies. Language: en
Nonrotationally symmetric reflectors for efficient and uniform illumination of rectangular apertures

A requirement for a uniformly illuminated rectangular aperture is common in optical design, particularly for projection applications. The naive approach to producing uniform illumination over a rectangular aperture is to uniformly fill a circular zone which circumscribes the desired rectangular region. Unfortunately, this technique is wasteful of flux, e.g. a rectangular aperture having as aspect ratio of 1.5:1 collects only 59% of the flux incident on the circumscribing circle. Other approaches such as rectangular light pipes and mosaic lens arrays dilute source etendue, increase the length of the optical train, and can suffer from losses due to multiple reflections. We have previously discovered that the performance limit due to skewness conservation for collecting light from a 3D source and projecting it into a beam can be overcome by a numerically optimized reflector with a nonrotationally symmetric star-like cross-section. In this paper we present preliminary results of our research into designing high- efficiency, single-element nonrotationally symmetric reflectors which provide uniform flux delivery into rectangular apertures.
Tree architecture of pillar and standard peach affect canopy transpiration and water use efficiency

Abstract The development of productive high density peach orchards is often limited by the excessive vegetative growth of the trees that reduces productivity and quality. Dwarfing rootstocks are not available but upright tree architectures have been developed for high density peach production. The purpose of this study was to determine the water use efficiency of upright pillar and standard architecture peach trees in a production setting in order to understand the factors that differentiate transpiration and water use efficiency of the two tree architectures. There were no differences in leaf area index (LAI) of the pillar and standard types but the standards architecture had significantly greater leaf area density (LAD) than the pillar. There was no significant difference in the photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) response of photosynthesis (A) and transpiration (E) for the pillar and standard trees over a range of LAI's and vapor pressure deficits (VPD) for the 3 year period indicating that there was no genetic difference in gas exchange mechanisms between the genotypes of the two tree architectures. For high light conditions, the pillar and standard trees had a similar and non-significantly different E: VPD relationship for LAI 2.25, the pillar had a significantly ( P = 0.05) greater E than the standard architecture at similar VPD levels due to the decreased LAD of the pillar architecture that more effectively distributed light within the canopy. The increased illumination and interception of PAR by the pillar canopy increased both photosynthesis and transpiration at the same WUE as the standard. The present work demonstrated that as pillar growth types are integrated into production systems, more research will be needed to efficiently schedule the water needs of the pillar architecture in order to maximize fruit size and quality due to the reduced LAD of this tree architecture and the greater illumination of the canopy interior.
Virology, immunology, and clinical course of HIV infection

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the cause of AIDS, was the second retrovirus to be associated with human diseases. The unique life cycle of retroviruses involves reverse transcription of their RNA to DNA, which is incorporated into their host's genes. HIV, despite its small genome, contains multiple structural and regulatory genes, the latter controlling the rate of viral replication. Experimental vaccines are aimed at inhibiting binding of HIV to host cells. Azidothymidine (AZT) and other nucleoside analogues inhibit the reverse transcriptase enzyme. HIV induces profound and specific immunosuppression by depleting helper lymphocytes that bear the cluster determinant 4 (CD4, formerly T4). The clinical course of HIV infection is mainly determined by the number of CD4 lymphocytes in the blood. A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to patient management can reduce the adverse medical, psychosocial, and economic impact of AIDS.
An Activity to Encourage Writing in Mathematics.

This article discusses an activity designed to encourage writing to learn in mathematics. There were three stages of data collection. An assessment, requiring basic algebra only, was completed by118 undergraduates from statistics and calculus courses. Students were given summaries of all participant responses, along with the correct answers. After discussing the results, 25 students wrote about the underlying concepts needed to answer the questions correctly and 38 gave reasons someone might answer the questions incorrectly. The written responses were easy to evaluate and revealed much about misunderstandings. A follow-up survey was given to students to elicit their attitudes.
Suppression of novel stimuli: Changes in accessibility of suppressed nonverbalizable shapes

Abstract Recently, a new method of considering successful intentional thought suppression has emerged. This method, the think/no-think (TNT) paradigm has been utilized over a multitude of settings and has fairly robustly demonstrated the ability to interfere with memory recall. The following experiment examined the effect of intentional thought suppression on recognition memory of nonverbalizeable shapes. In this experiment, participants learned word–shape targets. For some of the pairs, they rehearsed the shape when presented with the word; for others, they suppressed the shape when presented with the word. Finally, participants were shown multiple shapes, one at a time, and asked to identify which they had previously seen as paired with a word. Results of the experiment indicated that, similar to results involving words, participants were less accurate in identifying suppressed shapes, as compared to rehearsed shapes. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Investigation into three-layered HMA mixtures

Abstract Hot-mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures consist of three phases: aggregate, asphalt binder (mastic) and air voids, of which the first two (aggregate and asphalt binder) provide the structure that withstands various kinds of loading. Due to the nature of high inhomogeneity between aggregate and asphalt binder, significant stress and strain concentration occurs at the interface between the two phases, which causes adverse effect to HMA mixtures and potentially contributes to pavement distresses/failure. This paper presents a novel idea to mitigate the stress and strain concentration by introducing an intermediate layer between aggregate and asphalt binder in HMA mixture. Microstructural analyses of layered system indicated that the three-layered composite HMA mixture would greatly improve the performance of asphalt mixture. The composite mixture showed more than 10% reduction in internal stress and strain and consequently its performance could be potentially improved. To validate the theoretical analyses, a laboratory experiment was conducted to compare the performance of a conventional mixture to that of a conceptual three-layered composite HMA mixture, which was formed by incorporating a stiff natural asphalt (gilsonite) as the intermediate layer. The results of the limited laboratory experiment confirmed the findings from the theoretical analyses.
Why Go¨del's theorem cannot refute computationalism

Abstract Godel's theorem is consistent with the computationalist hypothesis. Roger Penrose, however, claims to prove that Godel's theorem implies that human thought cannot be mechanized. We review his arguments and show how they are flawed. Penrose's arguments depend crucially on ambiguities between precise and imprecise senses of key terms. We show that these ambiguities cause the Godel/Turing diagonalization argument to lead from apparently intuitive claims about human abilities to paradoxical or highly idiosyncratic conclusions, and conclude that any similar argument will also fail in the same ways.
Metabolic clearance rate of rat prolactin in preweanling rat pups.

AbstractThe metabolic clearance rate (MCR) of immunoreactive rat prolactin (rPRL) was determined in urethane-anaesthetized 14 to 16-day-old rat pups using the constant infusion to equilibrium method. Two different doses of rPRL were used, 329 and 472 ng/min each at a volume of 0.0025 ml/min for 30 min. The MCR was 0.216 ml/min following infusion of 329 ng PRL/min dose and 0.337 ml/min following infusion of the 472-ng/min dose. When calculated on the basis of metabolic body weight the MCR of rPRL in rat pups was comparable to that of adult rats.
Identification of γ-Endorphin-Generating Enzyme as Insulin-Degrading Enzyme†

The EL-4 thymoma cell line contains a peptidase which converts β-endorphin to β-endorphin 1−17 (γ-endorphin), β-endorphin 1−18, and their corresponding C-terminal fragments. This enzyme was purified approximately 700-fold to a single band on an SDS−polyacrylamide gel (106 kDa) in 16% yield. Estimation of the native molecular weight by molecular sieve chromatography gave a value of ∼220 kDa, indicating that this enzyme is a dimer. Peptide sequencing demonstrated this activity can be attributed to insulin degrading enzyme, a previously described member of the inverzincin family (Hooper, 1994). Kinetic studies with a number of peptide substrates indicate that the enzyme preferentially cleaves on the amino side of hydrophobic or basic residues. However, the substrate specificity is more complex since not all basic and hydrophobic residues in a peptide are cleaved. The enzyme exhibits a requirement for a P2‘ residue. On the basis of kcat/Km values, insulin, growth hormone releasing factor, and β-endorphin are ...
Keck AO observations of Io in and out of eclipse

We present AO observations of Io before the satellite went into eclipse, and while it was in Jupiter's shadow. For the sunlit images Io itself was used as the wavefront reference source, while nearby Ganymede was used as reference 'star' when Io was in eclipse. Observations were obtained in Kp, Lp, and Ms bands. We show results before and after deconvolution of the data. We determined the flux densities for the hot spots from the original Io-in-eclipse data via a FFT method, and from the sunlit images after deconvolution of the images with MISTRAL. We present preliminary temperatures and areal coverages for the 6 brightest volcanoes.
Effects of exogenous somatotropin (ST) on gonadal function in ruminants and swine

Abstract During the past 15 years, many investigators have examined the effects of somatotropin (ST) on growth and lactation in farm animals. Throughout this period, concerns about potential effects of ST on reproduction have been expressed. The objective of the present review will be to focus on the effects of exogenous ST on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Plasma progesterone is increased when recombinant bovine (rb)ST is given to cattle, early in lactation, and also to sheep. Also, the release of progesterone from cultured swine and human luteal cells is increased by ST. Treatment with rbSt increases the numbers of small follicles, but does not increase the ovulatory rate of ruminants. Doses of ST similar to those used to increase milk production do not affect the secretion of testosterone or spermatogenesis in rams or bulls. Stimulatory and inhibitory effects of exogenous ST on reproductive function of gilts have been reported. Daily injections of porcine ST (pST) delayed puberty and expression of estrus after puberty. Daily administration of pST increased the number of small follicles, but not of medium follicles, whereas administration of pST by using a sustained release implant increased the number of medium follicles. Size and weight of reproductive organs and concentration of testosterone are not affected when pST is administered for at least 42 d. However, pST enhanced testicular development and spermatogenesis when given to neonatal boars. In summary, administration of exogenous ST at doses known to alter milk production and carcass composition may have subtle positive and/or negative effects on the reproductive systems of cattle and swine; however, these effects appear to be transient.
Surgery is associated with improved survival for adrenocortical cancer, even in metastatic disease.

Background Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare but lethal tumor. Predictors of survival include earlier stage at presentation and complete operative resection. We assessed effect of treatment and demographic variables on survival. Methods ACC cases were abstracted from the California Cancer Registry and Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (1999–2008). Predictors included patient demographics, comorbidities, tumor size, stage, and treatment (none, surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation [CRT], and surgery plus CRT). Results We studied 367 patients with median tumor size of 10 cm. At presentation, 37% had localized, 17% had regional, and 46% had metastatic disease. Median survival was 1.7 years (7.4 years local, 2.6 years regional, and 0.3 years metastatic, P Conclusion In ACC, surgery is associated with improved survival, even in metastatic disease. Surgery should be considered for select patients as part of multimodality treatment.
Solution Structure of Enzyme IIAChitobiose from the N,N′-Diacetylchitobiose Branch of the Escherichia coli Phosphotransferase System

The solution structure of trimeric Escherichia coli enzyme IIAChb (34 kDa), a component of the N,N′-diacetylchitobiose/lactose branch of the phosphotransferase signal transduction system, has been determined by NMR spectroscopy. Backbone residual dipolar couplings were used to provide long range orientational restraints, and long range (|i - j| ≥ 5 residues) nuclear Overhauser enhancement restraints were derived exclusively from samples in which at least one subunit was 15N/13C/2H/(Val-Leu-Ile)-methyl-protonated. Each subunit consists of a three-helix bundle. Hydrophobic residues lining helix 3 of each subunit are largely responsible for the formation of a parallel coiled-coil trimer. The active site histidines (His-89 from each subunit) are located in three symmetrically placed deep crevices located at the interface of two adjacent subunits (A and C, C and B, and B and A). Partially shielded from bulk solvent, structural modeling suggests that phosphorylated His-89 is stabilized by electrostatic interactions with the side chains of His-93 from the same subunit and Gln-91 from the adjacent subunit. Comparison with the x-ray structure of Lactobacillus lactis IIALac reveals some substantial structural differences, particularly in regard to helix 3, which exhibits a 40° kink in IIALacversus a 7° bend in IIAChb. This is associated with the presence of an unusually large (230-A3) buried hydrophobic cavity at the trimer interface in IIALac that is reduced to only 45 A3 in IIAChb.
Improving the accuracy of duplicate bug report detection using textual similarity measures

The paper describes an improved method for automatic duplicate bug report detection based on new textual similarity features and binary classification. Using a set of new textual features, inspired from recent text similarity research, we train several binary classification models. A case study was conducted on three open source systems: Eclipse, Open Office, and Mozilla to determine the effectiveness of the improved method. A comparison is also made with current state-of-the-art approaches highlighting similarities and differences. Results indicate that the accuracy of the proposed method is better than previously reported research with respect to all three systems.
Oblique incidence effects in direct x-ray detectors: A first-order approximation using a physics-based analytical model

Purpose: The authors describe the modifications to a previously developed analytical model of indirect CsI:Tl-based detector response required for studying oblique x-ray incidence effects in direct semiconductor-based detectors. This first-order approximation analysis allows the authors to describe the associated degradation in resolution in direct detectors and compare the predictions to the published data for indirect detectors. Methods: The proposed model is based on a physics-based analytical description developed by Freed et al. [''A fast, angle-dependent, analytical model of CsI detector response for optimization of 3D x-ray breast imaging systems,'' Med. Phys. 37(6), 2593-2605 (2010)] that describes detector response functions for indirect detectors and oblique incident x rays. The model, modified in this work to address direct detector response, describes the dependence of the response with x-ray energy, thickness of the transducer layer, and the depth-dependent blur and collection efficiency. Results: The authors report the detector response functions for indirect and direct detector models for typical thicknesses utilized in clinical systems for full-field digital mammography (150 {mu}m for indirect CsI:Tl and 200 {mu}m for a-Se direct detectors). The results suggest that the oblique incidence effect in a semiconductor detector differs from that in indirect detectors in two ways: The direct detectormore » model produces a sharper overall PRF compared to the response corresponding to the indirect detector model for normal x-ray incidence and a larger relative increase in blur along the x-ray incidence direction compared to that found in indirect detectors with respect to the response at normal incidence angles. Conclusions: Compared to the effect seen in indirect detectors, the direct detector model exhibits a sharper response at normal x-ray incidence and a larger relative increase in blur along the x-ray incidence direction with respect to the blur in the orthogonal direction. The results suggest that the oblique incidence effect in direct detectors can be considered to be caused mostly by the geometry of the path where the x-ray beam and its secondary particles deposit energy in the semiconductor layer.« less
Expression of dipeptidyl aminopeptidase IV during enterocytic differentiation of human colon cancer (Caco‐2) cells

The human colon cancer cell line Caco-2 spontaneously differentiates to an enterocyte-like cell after confluence under standard culture conditions. This is characterized by polarization of the cell monolayer with the appearance of tight junctions, a brush border membrane and expression of brush-border-membrane-associated hydrolases. Studies have shown that differentiated Caco-2 cells express relatively high levels of dipeptidyl aminopeptidase IV (DPP IV) when compared with other enzymes. However, the biochemical mechanisms involved in the expression of DPP IV in differentiated cells are currently unknown. Therefore, the biosynthesis and expression of membrane-associated DPP IV in undifferentiated (0 day confluent) and differentiated (14 day confluent) Caco-2 cells were examined. Though levels of DPP IV activity in differentiated cells was 5- to 6-fold higher than undifferentiated cells, there was only a 1.6-fold difference in the synthetic rate. Post-translational processing of newly synthesized DPP IV occurred at a slower rate in differentiated cells, though there were no major differences in the type or degree of glycosylation. A comparison of the degradation rates revealed that they were similar with a half-life of approximately 8 to 10 days. We conclude that the high levels of DPP IV expressed in differentiated Caco-2 cells is primarily due to an increase in enzyme synthesis. In addition, accumulation of the enzyme is aided by its slow turnover rate.