cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CRTC1-MAML2 fusion in mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the breast.

Aims Mucoepidermoid carcinomas (MEC) are the most common malignant neoplasms of salivary glands, but are uncommon in other sites. Salivary gland MEC are most frequently associated with CRTC1-MAML2 translocations. Exceedingly rare MEC of the breast demonstrate a basal-like and often triple (oestrogen and progesterone receptor, HER2)-negative immunophenotype, with a single case previously reported to show MAML2 rearrangement, although the fusion partner was not known. Comprehensive genomic studies of breast MEC are lacking. In this study, we analysed the immunophenotype and molecular landscape of two breast MEC to elucidate the pathogenesis of these rare tumours. Methods and results Two breast MEC were subjected to capture-based next-generation DNA sequencing of 479 cancer-related genes. The presence of the CRTC1-MAML2 fusion transcript was interrogated by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. In addition, the immunoprofiles of breast MEC were compared to salivary gland MEC. Both breast MEC harboured CRTC1-MAML2 fusions. In contrast to most triple-negative breast carcinomas of no special type, the mutational burden of MEC was very low, with one case demonstrating only an inactivating SETD2 mutation, and the other harbouring no somatic variants in genes on the panel. No copy number alterations were identified. The immunoprofiles of breast and salivary gland MEC were overlapping, but not identical. Conclusions The findings highlight MEC as a breast cancer subtype more closely related to its salivary gland counterpart than to basal-like/triple-negative breast cancers of no special type.
The Evolution of Skeletal Muscle Plasticity in Response to Physical Activity and Inactivity

Abstract The goal of this chapter is to trace the evolution of scientific inquiry on skeletal muscle plasticity during the past century along three central, integrated topics: (1) identifying the fundamental properties of skeletal muscle centered on the structural and functional features of the motor unit, which provides the gradation in movement and force generation capacity of living organisms; (2) examining the differential properties of fast versus slow skeletal muscle motor units and their adaptive capacity in response to acute and chronic endurance exercise; and (3) addressing the evolution of studies concerning alterations in loading state in the regulation of muscle mass, and establishing the features of both the contractile and metabolic phenotype in contributing to the plasticity of skeletal muscle.
Spectral photoacoustic imaging to estimate in vivo placental oxygenation during preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related hypertensive disorder accounting for 14% of global maternal deaths annually. Preeclampsia — maternal hypertension and proteinuria — is promoted by placental ischemia resulting from reduced uteroplacental perfusion. Here, we assess longitudinal changes in placental oxygenation during preeclampsia using spectral photoacoustic imaging. Spectral photoacoustic images were acquired of the placenta of normal pregnant (NP) and preeclamptic reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) Sprague Dawley rats on gestational days (GD) 14, 16, and 18, corresponding to mid- to late gestation (n = 10 per cohort). Two days after implementation of the RUPP surgical model, placental oxygen saturation decreased 12% in comparison with NP. Proteinuria was determined from a 24-hour urine collection prior to imaging on GD18. Blood pressure measurements were obtained on GD18 after imaging. Placental hypoxia in the RUPP was confirmed with histological staining for hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, a cellular transcription regulator which responds to local oxygen levels. Using in vivo, longitudinal imaging methods we determined that the placenta in the reduced uterine perfusion pressure rat model of preeclampsia is hypoxic, and that this hypoxia is maintained through late gestation. Future work will utilize these methods to assess the impact of novel therapeutics on placental ischemia and the progression of preeclampsia.
Reflecting on the Impact of a Course on Inclusive Strategies for Teaching Computer Science

As the number of teachers teaching computer science grows, it is increasingly important to be mindful of the training they receive with respect to broadening participation in computer science. Through our program, we have trained over 50 teachers in the greater Boise Metropolitan region, who have in turn taught over 1400 students computing concepts through courses such as Exploring CS, AP CS Principles, and AP CS A. These courses have an excellent curriculum that contains a mix of computational thinking concepts such as a focus on creativity, abstraction, coding, as well as increasing awareness about the cyber footprint of the students with respect to security and privacy. While the curriculum is excellent, we need to be more mindful about incorporating pedagogical strategies that promote inclusive teaching especially for women and minorities who are traditionally underrepresented in computer science.To address the challenges associated with teaching a truly inclusive course, we developed a new course titled “Inclusive Strategies for Computer Science Education” that draws attention to the strategies that have been studied over the years in STEM and CS education literature. We present the contents of the course along with a post-hoc qualitative survey on the applicability and practicality of the material discussed in the course.
Three asymptomatic animal infection models of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome caused by hantaviruses

Hantaan virus (HTNV) and Puumala virus (PUUV) are rodent-borne hantaviruses that are the primary causes of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in Europe and Asia. The development of well characterized animal models of HTNV and PUUV infection is critical for the evaluation and the potential licensure of HFRS vaccines and therapeutics. In this study we present three animal models of HTNV infection (hamster, ferret and marmoset), and two animal models of PUUV infection (hamster, ferret). Infection of hamsters with a ~3 times the infectious dose 99% (ID99) of HTNV by the intramuscular and ~1 ID99 of HTNV by the intranasal route leads to a persistent asymptomatic infection, characterized by sporadic viremia and high levels of viral genome in the lung, brain and kidney. In contrast, infection of hamsters with ~2 ID99 of PUUV by the intramuscular or ~1 ID99 of PUUV by the intranasal route leads to seroconversion with no detectable viremia, and a transient detection of viral genome. Infection of ferrets with a high dose of either HTNV or PUUV by the intramuscular route leads to seroconversion and gradual weight loss, though kidney function remained unimpaired and serum viremia and viral dissemination to organs was not detected. In marmosets a 1,000 PFU HTNV intramuscular challenge led to robust seroconversion and neutralizing antibody production. Similarly to the ferret model of HTNV infection, no renal impairment, serum viremia or viral dissemination to organs was detected in marmosets. This is the first report of hantavirus infection in ferrets and marmosets.
Manganese triacetate oxidation of phenolic schiffs bases: Synthesis of 2-arylbenzoxazoles

A concise synthesis of 2-arylbenzoxazoles, 5a-f, is described that occurs via the oxidative cyclization of Schiff's bases, 1a-f, using relatively benign reagent, manganese triacetate.
The inhibition of phosphatidylglycerol synthesis in Escherichia coli by 3,4-dihydroxybutyl-1-phosphonate.

Abstract The effect of 3,4-dihydroxybutyl-1-phosphonate on phosphoglyceride metabolism of Escherichia coli strain 8 was examined. The compound inhibits the incorporation of [33P]phosphate into phospholipids. Phosphatidylglycerol accumulation is very strongly inhibited, while phosphatidylethanolamine and cardiolipin accumulation are less significantly affected. Pulse labeling studies using [32P]phosphate indicate that phospholipid synthesis is inhibited to a much greater extent by 3,4-dihydroxybutyl-1-phosphonate than is the synthesis of DNA or RNA. These studies also indicate that 3,4-dihydroxybutyl-1-phosphonate severely inhibits phosphatidylglycerol synthesis and that phosphatidylethanolamine synthesis is inhibited less severely. Cardiolipin synthesis is only slightly affected. Studies on the rate of disappearance of [32P]phosphate from the phosphoglycerides of prelabeled cells indicate that 3,4-dihydroxybutyl-1-phosphonate treatment does not alter the rate of turnover of the phospholipids. 3,4-Dihydroxy[3-3H]butyl-1-phosphonate was readily incorporated into a chloroform-extractable fraction of E. coli strain 8.
Abstract 417: A 3D iPSC-derived Scaffold-Assisted Microfluidic Model of Ventricular Ejection

Organ-on-a-chip technology fosters the potential of in vitro models of cardiac function. Nevertheless, modeling the ventricular ejection has been challenging due to the lack of 3D scaffolds of vent...
Development Context and the Political Behavior of Remittance Recipients in Latin America and the Caribbean

Remittances have become a chief source of family income in developing countries. As such, these revenue streams have the potential to impact recipients’ political behavior. Empirical studies investigating this proposition, however, have yielded seemingly contradictory findings. We develop a theoretical framework that highlights the importance of national development context in understanding the distinct cross-national political behavior patterns between remittance recipients and non-recipients. Leveraging the variations in development levels across 24 Latin American countries, we evaluate propositions derived from this contention that the political implications of remittances depend in part on the development context into which they flow. We find evidence for a posited inverse relationship between development levels and the extent to which receipt of remittances induces political participation. We argue these divergent patterns emerge from the asymmetrical effect remittances have on the economic perceptions and cross-border ties of recipients living in distinct development contexts.
Triple Layer Tungsten Trioxide, Graphene, and Polyaniline Composite Films for Combined Energy Storage and Electrochromic Applications.

Different polyaniline (PANI)-based hybrid films were successfully prepared by electro-polymerizing aniline monomers onto pre-spin-coated indium tin oxide (ITO) glass slides with WO3, graphene, or WO3/graphene films. Comparing with pristine PANI, the shifts of the characteristic peaks of PANI-based nanocomposites in UV-visible absorption spectra (UV-vis) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) indicate the chemical interaction between the PANI matrix and the nanofillers, which is also confirmed by the scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. Corresponding coloration efficiencies were obtained for the WO3/PANI (40.42 cm2 C−1), graphene/PANI (78.64 cm2 C−1), and WO3/graphene/PANI (67.47 cm2 C−1) films, higher than that of the pristine PANI film (29.4 cm2 C−1), suggesting positive effects of the introduced nanofillers on the electrochromic performance. The areal capacitances of the films were observed to increase following the order as bare WO3 < WO3/graphene < pristine PANI < WO3/PANI < graphene/PANI < WO3/graphene/PANI films from both the cyclic voltammogram (CV) and galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) results. The enhanced energy storage and electrochromic performances of the PANI-based nanocomposite films can be attributed to the capacitance contributions of the introduced nanofillers, increased PANI amount, and the rougher morphology due to the embedment of the nanofillers into the PANI matrix. This extraordinary energy storage and electrochromic performances of the WO3/graphene/PANI film make it a promising candidate for combined electrochromic and energy storage applications.
Fundamentals of Groundwater Hydrogeology

Groundwater composes more than 98% by volume of the available freshwater on earth. Available does not mean readily accessible, however, because more than half of the available freshwater is held too tightly onto subsurface sediments by molecular attraction to flow to wells. In general, groundwater is the water that completely fills the void spaces in rocks, sediments, and soils and can move under the influence of gravity. The ultimate source of groundwater is precipitation as was described in Chap. 2.
Using Photovoice to Understand Survivors' Healthcare Experiences and Strategies.

The unique, individual nature of traumatic experiences and trauma symptoms and the limited healthcare resources typically allocated for individual patients pose barriers to implementing trauma-info...
A Closer Look at the Problems

In the previous chapter we presented what we take to be the most serious challenges to the program of the Hilbertian instrumentalist. In this chapter we shall seek both to deepen our understanding of and develop (at least in outline) a response to these challenges.
Effect of dynamic correlation on the ultrafast relaxation of uracil in the gas phase

The photophysics and photochemistry of DNA/RNA nucleobases have been extensively investigated during the past two decades, both experimentally and theoretically. The ultrafast relaxation of the canonical nucleobases following photoexcitation is of significant interest when it comes to understanding how nature has ensured their photostability. Here we study the excited state dynamics of uracil which is a nucleobase found in RNA. Although theory and experiment have shed significant light on understanding the photoexcited dynamics of uracil, there are still disagreements in the literature about specific details. In order to examine how the dynamics is influenced by the underlying electronic structure theory, we have performed non-adiabatic excited state dynamics simulations of uracil using on-the-fly trajectory surface hopping methodology on potential energy surfaces calculated at different electronic structure theory levels (CASSCF, MRCIS, XMS-CASPT2, TD-DFT). These simulations reveal that the dynamics are very sensitive to the underlying electronic structure theory, with the multi-reference theory levels that include dynamic correlation, predicting that there is no trapping on the absorbing S2 state, in contrast to predictions from lower level electronic structure results. The dynamics are instead governed by ultrafast decay to the ground state, or trapping on the dark S1 state.
Rheology, simulation and data analysis toward bioprinting cell viability awareness

Abstract Microextrusion-based bioprinting consists of extruding a cellularized hydrogel through a nozzle of known geometry. As a consequence of this travelling through the nozzle, shear forces will inevitably be generated upon cells during the extrusion process and have a negative effect on cell viability, proliferation and biological fate of the tissue. In the present study and for the first time in the bioprinting field, flow simulation and cells fate (lysis, necrosis, apoptosis and viable) were consolidated to establish mathematical relationships. We demonstrated that for constant residence time at wall, the higher the wall shear stress values, the lower the viable populations. Furthermore, at constant maximum wall shear stress, the longer the residence time at wall, the lower the viable populations. Regarding the quantification of the damaged fibroblasts (lysis, necrosis and apoptosis) during the microextrusion, lysis was shown to be the prevailing cell death pathway compared to necrosis and apoptosis. Finally, partial least square (PLS) modelling was able to correctly predicted viable cells’ population with a high correlation (R2 of 0.859; error of 9.2%) between predicted and measured viable cells percentage. This model was shown to be predictive over a large range of cells viability (38.5–94%) with a prediction error of only 9.2%.
Last Interglacial ( sensu lato , ~130 to 75 ka) sea level history from cave deposits: a global standardized database

Abstract. Cave deposits are powerful archives for reconstructing past sea levels as they are generally protected from weathering and erosion by their location and can be dated with U-series methods. Two main categories of cave deposits are recognized as sea level indicators: phreatic overgrowth on speleothems (POS) and submerged vadose speleothems (SVS). POS have the great advantage that they precipitate on preexisting vadose supports at a brackish water level equivalent to sea level when air-filled chambers of coastal caves are flooded by rising sea. SVS are also useful, but sea level is inferred indirectly as periods of growth provide constraints on maximum sea level positions, whereas growth hiatuses, sometimes difficult to observe, may indicate times when cave passages are submerged by sea high stands, hence they record minimum sea level elevations. Here we describe a compilation that summarizes the current knowledge of MIS 5 (sensu lato) sea level captured by cave deposits. We used the framework of the World Atlas of Last Interglacial Shorelines (WALIS), a comprehensive sea level database, to provide a standardized format in order to facilitate scientific research on MIS 5 sea level. The discussion is MIS 5e-centered, but records that capture MIS 5c and 5a are also included. We present the data from 59 cave deposits (26 sea-level index points and 33 limiting points) in coastal caves located in eight different locations, and we include the spatial coverage, the samples used and their accuracy as indicators of sea level, the isotopic characteristics used to generate the U-Th chronologies, and their scientific relevance to understand past sea-level changes. The paper also emphasizes how some of these indicators are useful not only for the information they offer about the eustatic sea level, but more importantly: i) those from tectonically stable areas provide information on Earth deformation and regional ice sheet histories, thus refining the glacial isostatic adjustments models and ii) those from active regions can constrain regional tectonic uplift rates. The standardized sea-level database presented here is the first of its kind derived from cave deposits and contains all the information needed to assess former paleo relative sea level and the chronological constraints associated with them. The database is available open-access at http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4313861 (Dumitru et al., 2020).
Postoperative opioid-free ureteroscopy discharge: A quality initiative pilot protocol.

Background Opioids are commonly prescribed after ureteroscopy. With an increasing adoption of ureteroscopy for management of urolithiasis, this subset of patients is at high risk for opioid dependence. We sought to pilot an opioid-free discharge protocol for patients undergoing ureteroscopy for urolithiasis. Materials and methods A prospective cohort study was performed of all patients undergoing ureteroscopy for urolithiasis and compared them to a historical control group. An opioid-free discharge protocol was initiated targeting all areas of surgical care from June 20th, 2019 to September 20th, 2019 as part of an institutional quality improvement initiative. Demographic and surgical data were collected as were morphine equivalent doses (MEDs) prescribed at discharge, postoperative measures including phone calls, clinic visits, and emergency room visits for pain. Results Between October 1st, 2017 and February 1st, 2018, a total of 54 patients who underwent ureteroscopy were identified and comprised the historical control cohort while 54 prospective patients met the inclusion criteria since institution of the quality improvement initiative. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline patient demographics or surgical characteristics between the 2 patient groups. Total 37% of the intervention group had a preexisting opioid prescription versus 42.6% of the control group with no difference in preoperative MED (p = 0.55). The intervention group had a mean MED of 12.03 at discharge versus 110.5 in the control cohort (p ≤ 0.001). At discharge 3.7% of the intervention group received an opioid prescription versus 88.9% of the control group (p < 0.001). Overall, there was no difference in postoperative pain related phone calls (p = 1.0) or emergency room visits (p = 1.0). Conclusions An opioid-free discharge protocol can dramatically reduce opioid prescription at discharge following ureteroscopy for urinary calculi without affecting postoperative measures such as phone calls, clinic visits, or subsequent prescriptions.
Mitral Annular Disjunction of Degenerative Mitral Regurgitation: Three-Dimensional Evaluation and Implications for Mitral Repair.

Background The dynamic consequences of mitral annular disjunction (MAD) on the mitral apparatus and the left ventricle remain unclear and are crucial in the context of mitral surgery. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess mitral valvular, annular, and ventricular dynamics in mitral valve prolapse (MVP) stratified by presence of MAD. Methods In 61 patients (mean age, 62 ± 11 years; 25% women) with MVP and severe mitral regurgitation undergoing mitral surgery between 2009 and 2016, valvular and annular dimensions and dynamics by two-dimensional transthoracic and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography and left ventricular dimensions and dynamics were analyzed stratified by presence of MAD before and after surgery. Results MAD (mean, 8 ± 3 mm) was diagnosed in 27 patients (44%; with a mean effective regurgitant orifice area of 0.55 ± 0.20 cm2 and similar to patients without MAD), more frequently in bileaflet prolapse (52% vs 18% in patients without MAD, P = .004), consistently involving P2 (P = .005). Patients with MAD displayed larger diastolic annular areas (mean, 1,646 ± 410 vs 1,380 ± 348 mm2), circumferences (mean, 150 ± 19 vs 137 ± 16 mm), and intercommissural diameters (mean, 48 ± 7 vs 43 ± 6 mm) compared with those without MAD (P ≤ .008 for all). Dynamically, mid- and late systolic excess intercommissural diameter, annular area, and circumference enlargement were associated with MAD (P ≤ .01 for all). MAD was also associated with dynamically annular slippage, larger prolapse volume and height (P ≤ .007), and larger leaflet area (mean, 2,053 ± 620 vs 1,692 ± 488 mm2, P = .01). Although patients with MAD compared with those without MAD showed similar ejection fractions (mean, 65 ± 5% vs 62 ± 8%, respectively, P = .10), systolic basal posterior thickness was increased in patients with MAD (mean, 19 ± 2 vs 15 ± 2 mm, P Conclusions MAD in patients with MVP involves a predominant phenotype of bileaflet MVP and causes profound annular dynamic alterations with considerable expansion and excess annular enlargement in systole, potentially affecting leaflet coaptation. MAD myocardial and annular slippage simulates vigorous left ventricular function without true benefit after surgical annular suture. Thus, although MAD does not hinder the feasibility and quality of valve repair, it requires careful suture of ring to ventricular myocardium, lest it persist postoperatively.
Genomes, Browsers and Databases: Data-Mining Tools for Integrated Genomic Databases

The recent explosive growth of biological data has lead to a rapid increase in the number of molecular biology databases. Held in many different locations and often using varying interfaces and non-standard data formats, integrating and comparing data from these multiple databases can be difficult and time-consuming. This book provides an overview of the key tools currently available for large-scale comparisons of gene sequences and annotations, focusing on the databases and tools from the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC), Ensembl, and the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Written specifically for biology and bioinformatics students and researchers, it aims to give an appreciation of the methods by which the browsers and their databases are constructed, enabling readers to determine which tool is the most appropriate for their requirements. Each chapter contains a summary and exercises to aid understanding and promote effective use of these important tools.
Holes in Copper Oxides: Where Are They? How Do They Conduct? How Do They Affect Superconductivity?

Samples of La2−xSrxCuO4 and Gd2−xSrxCuO4 have been prepared with hole concentrations as high as p = 0.4 per copper by annealing them under high oxygen pressure (100 bar) in order to eliminate the oxygen vacancies which would otherwise compensate these holes. As x and the hole concentration are increased beyond the usual p ~ x ~ 0.15 region of the La compounds, the conductivity remains metallic and continues to increase in magnitude. The superconducting transition temperature, which had increased up to 36 K from lower concentrations, levels off at this value between p = 0.13 and p ~ 0.24, beyond which Tc falls and superconductivity surprisingly disappears for p > 0.32. The metallic conductivity in La2−xSrxCuO4 is contrasted with the semiconducting behavior observed in Gd2−xSrxCuO4. Both systems have sheets of CuO2 and comparable hole concentrations. A possible explanation for their different behavior is presented as part of a broad overview of the relative energies of holes on copper and oxygen sites in a large variety of copper oxides. It is proposed that the holes in Gd2−xSrxCuO4 are self-trapped on oxygen sites.
Short-range host preference in snowberry maggot flies depends on life history stage

Closely related animal species are often incompletely isolated reproductively and occasionally hybridize. Many host-specific insects are primarily isolated by the reproductive barrier of host choice and provide model systems to study gene flow in sympatry. Understanding conditions that alter barriers like host choice can help us understand reproductive isolation between these species. Hybridization occurs between microsympatric populations of apple and snowberry maggots in Bellingham, Washington which are also not isolated by mating season or assortative mating. I exposed apple and snowberry maggots to their natal fruits in two-way choice experiments to measure their short-range host preferences. I tested snowberry flies at different life stages to determine whether host preference is constant throughout their lives. Virgin flies show no preference for their natal hosts and rarely oviposit. After mating, female snowberry flies strongly prefer their natal host and oviposit solely in snowberries. Young synovigenic females may balance the costs of exploring nearby novel hosts and occasionally mating with heterospecific males with the benefits of finding nutrients to develop their eggs and mates to fertilize them. Mated females will spend most of their time on their natal host where males will follow them. As a result, hybridization between apple and snowberry maggot populations is most likely in the early season before females have mated and started ovipositing in their natal hosts. The fate of evolutionary interactions between species depends on the life history dynamics of the reproductive barriers that isolate them. Future studies should consider strength of reproductive isolation in this context.
Seed Germination of Triglochin Maritima as Influenced by Salinity and Dormancy Relieving Compounds

Triglochin maritima had only 40 % germination in distilled water, but germination was substantially enhanced when seeds were exposed to ethephon, fusicoccin, proline, kinetin, and thiourea. Also, the effect of low salinity on germination was alleviated by fusicoccin, kinetin, nitrate and thiourea, whereas, the reduction in germination at high salinity was partially countered by ethephon, kinetin, thiourea and nitrate.
transformed scores I: percentiles

This chapter provides a definition of percentile and illustrates the computation of percentiles. The percentile rank corresponding to a given score refers to the percent of cases in a given reference group scoring at or below that score. A specified raw score may be converted to the corresponding percentile rank to express its standing relative to the reference group, or the raw score corresponding to a specified percentile may be determined. The percentile divides the scale into 100 equal parts; however, the decile divides the scale into 10 equal parts and the quartile divides the scale into four equal parts. The score corresponding to the 50th percentile has the unique property that exactly half the scores in the group are higher and exactly half the scores in the group are equal or lower. It is called the median and it is one of the measures of central tendency.
A Conceptual-Theoretical-Empirical Framework for Self-Forgiveness: Implications for Research and Practice

Self-forgiveness literature has grown in depth and breadth since its inception in 1974. In 2005, Hall and Fincham proposed a conceptual process model of self-forgiveness. In approximately 10 years, there have been considerable advancements in conceptual understanding and empirical findings but less refinement of a theoretical framework. This article outlines a Conceptual-Theoretical-Empirical (C-T-E) framework to explain the origins, processes, and ethical limitations of self-forgiveness; to refine the definition of self-forgiveness; and to improve upon Hall and Fincham's (2005) model. This C-T-E framework provides a social-cognitive theoretical structure to direct future research and therapeutic practice.
A low cost electrostatically focused TWT

Ring-loop circuits are well known for their simplicity, low cost, compactness, low mass, high gain and efficiency and absence of backward wave oscillations. Peak powers over 20 kw have been achieved. They also have low harmonic output and excellent phase performance. We have developed a double ring-loop circuit that permits electrostatic focusing of an electron beam to at least 0.4 micro pervs. This eliminates the magnet stack and further lowers cost and weight. It permits glass rod fastening of circuit elements as well as gun and collector assemblies, as is done in cathode ray tubes. Using CRT construction techniques, the TWT can be built on automated equipment.
A Distributed Message Passing Computational and I/O Engine for Real-Time Motion Control

This paper illustrates the use of the Yale XP/DCS - a dual-board real-time distributed control module based upon the INMOS Transputer family of microprocessors ? for high performance real-time motion control applications. The XP/DCS complements the the Transputer's 1.5 Mflop computational rate and four independent on-chip 20 Mbps DMA communication engines, by providing a bidirectional latched 32 bit bus extension with full handshaking support for easy customization of the I/O capabilities of any node. After contrasting this design with commercially available alternatives we describe three particular applications presently underway in the Yale Robotics Laboratory. We conclude by reporting some initial experiments concerning the effect of code distribution and message passing protocols upon sampling rate.
Statistical Learning Theory

This chapter contains sections titled: Conditions for Consistency and Convergence of ERM Growth Function and VC Dimension Bounds on the Generalization Structural Risk Minimization Comparisons of Model Selection for Regression Measuring the VC Dimension VC Dimension, Occam's Razor, and Popper's Falsifiability Summary and Discussion
The Origins of Writing An Archaeologist's Perspective

It is generally agreed that writing was invented in Sumer, ancient Mesopotamia and present-day Iraq, and spread from there to other parts of the Middle East such as Egypt. The article reviews an archaic system of notation using tokens that is the direct progenitor of Sumerian writing.
Sustainability Analysis of Grinding with Power Tools

Abstract Grinding with power tools includes precision applications, such as polishing and engraving, but also high-performance applications such as cut-off grinding and deburring in foundries or construction. There is a growing demand for power tools in both industrial and consumer markets, but there is little literature on the sustainability of grinding with power tool available. Therefore, this paper summarizes the input-output-streams of manual grinding and reviews sustainability aspects, in particular the energy source of abrasive power tools, layout of grinding tools, safety, and health. A survey on angle grinders showed how companies advertise in particular social and economic features, but not environmental features. The discussion demonstrates that much work needs to be done on the sustainability of grinding with power tools.
Are “powerless” communication strategies the Japanese norm?

Parallels between female communication strategies in the West and Japanese communication strategies are striking. Power figures prominently in descriptions of male-female behavior in the West and, by implication, in descriptions of Japanese linguistic behavior. Similarities between Western female and Japanese communication styles are taken not as an indication that Japanese linguistic behavior is feminine, but as indicative of the problems inherent in analyzing linguistic behavior in culturally bound-terms such as power. (Japanese sociolinguistics, language and the sexes, inter-cultural communication)
Ladder Network Analysis by Signal-Flow Graph-Application to Analog Computer Programming

S. Mason's signal flow graph technique is applied to the analysis of ladder networks. Briefly, the flow graph of a ladder is developed using Ohm's and the two Kirchhoff's equations. The graph is then reciprocated so that it contains only forward paths. The transfer function, in the case of a simple ladder, is the reciprocal of the sum of all distinct paths from the output to the input node. In the case of ladders containing internal generators, independent or dependent, the transfer function can be found in a similar way with slight modifications. Other relations, such as the input impedance, transfer admittance, etc., can also be found directly from the flow graph. In essence, instead of writing mesh equations or applying recursion formulas of continuants, we construct a flow graph by inspection and analyze the network from the graph. In the last part of the paper, the striking similarities between the flow graph of a network and its analog computer simulation are pointed out. Indeed, the flow graph is the computer set-up in a schematic form.
Radiosynthesis of an opiate receptor binding radiotracer: [11C]carfentanil.

Carfentanil, a potent opiate receptor agonist, was labeled with 11C for in vito studies using positron emission tomography. This synthesis was completed in approximately 30 min using iodomethane as the 11C precursor. The synthesis, purification, characterization, and determination of specific activity are presented and discussed.
Humility as a psychotherapeutic formulation

Abstract Humility training is conceptualized as an appropriate treatment for persons who occasionally describe themselves, but are most frequently described by others as overbearing, insensitive and deceitful. Procedures are outlined to identify unrecognized fears and improve interpersonal skills. Humility is presented as a counterpoint to assertiveness and aggression/anger control interventions.
Panoramic Radiography: An Aid in Detecting Patients at Risk of Cearebrovascular Accident

Panoramic radiographs could detect vascular calcifications associated with strokes. Some individuals at risk for a cerebrovascular accident can be identified in the dental office by appropriate review of their panoramic radiographs. Radiographs were evaluated for 304 outpatients, 55 years or older, to check the presence of calcifications associated with artery disease. Three percent of the sample had such opacities.
A Phase Function to Quantify Serial Dependence between Discrete Samples

Auto- and cross-correlation methods, when applied to discrete events, can determine periodicity and correlation times within and between event train sequences. However, if the number of available events for analysis is too few, the correlation techniques yield ambiguous and insufficient results. Here we report a technique based on measurements of phases of event times that could detect the periodicity even among very few discrete data points. The results are demonstrated on in vitro neuronal spike time data, and are found to be highly contrasting when compared with the correlation techniques. The technique could become invaluable, for example, for treating in vivo spike time records that often last very short duration, or for determining short timescales in discrete biophysical experimental data.
Strong reinforcing selection in a Texas wildflower.

Summary Reinforcement, the process of increased reproductive isolation due to selection against hybrids, is an important mechanism by which natural selection contributes to speciation [1]. Empirical studies suggest that reinforcement has generated reproductive isolation in many taxa (reviewed in [2–4]), and theoretical work shows it can act under broad selective conditions [5–11]. However, the strength of selection driving reinforcement has never been measured in nature. Here, we quantify the strength of reinforcing selection in the Texas wildflower Phlox drummondii using a strategy that weds a population genetic model with field data. Reinforcement in this system is caused by variation in two loci that affect flower color [12]. We quantify sharp clines in flower color where this species comes into contact with its congener, Phlox cuspidata . We develop a spatially explicit population genetic model for these clines based on the known genetics of flower color. We fit our model to the data using likelihood, and we searched parameter space using Markov chain Monte Carlo methods. We find that selection on flower color genes generated by reinforcement is exceptionally strong. Our findings demonstrate that natural selection can play a decisive role in the evolution of reproductive isolation through the process of reinforcement.
Vortex avalanches at one thousandth the superconducting transition temperature

We study the nonequilibrium dynamics of vortex motion at millikelvin temperatures in untwinned single crystals of YBa_2Cu_3O_(7-δ). Above threshold fields of many tesla, flux jumps appear in the magnetic hysteresis B(H). These jumps correspond to a change of 750 vortices, on average, under our micrometer-sized Bi Hall probes. Not only are the threshold fields large, but they, and the characteristics of the flux jumps themselves, are essentially independent of magnet ramp rate or sample thickness, militating against a thermally triggered instability. Moreover, the threshold differs significantly on the ascending and descending branches of the hysteresis loop. We argue for a dynamical origin for these vortex avalanches and invoke a sandpile analogy to guide our detailed explorations of the H-T plane.
Measuring the hadronic spectrum of the quark plasma

In an effort to characterize the large-scale structure and composition of the QCD plasma at zero baryon-number density in the vicinity of the high-temperature phase transition, we have carried out a numerical simulation in SU(3) lattice gauge theory with four flavors of low-mass staggered fermions on a 6\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{3}$ lattice. A small data sample was also collected on 6\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{2}$\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}20 lattices. The simulation uses the Illinois hybrid microcanonical algorithm, adapted for measurements of hadronic screening lengths. Measurements were carried out at three values of the gauge coupling \ensuremath{\beta} and at three values each of the bare quark mass. The principal quantities measured are the static screening masses in several color-singlet channels with quark valence qq\ifmmode\bar\else\textasciimacron\fi{} and qqq. Clear evidence for a hadronic screening spectrum is found, suggesting the presence of hadronic plasma modes. The spectral multiplets, extrapolated to zero quark mass, are consistent with a restoration of the SU(N)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}SU(N) chiral symmetry.
Mimicry of dimerization by synthetic peptides designed to target homologous regions of proteins

Rapid progress in sequencing various genomes has highlighted the need for the development of biochemical reagents for the detection of thousands of expressed gene products. The magnitude of this detection problem exceeds current technical capabilities. In an attempt to address this shortcoming, a novel approach has been developed called mimicry of dimerization. Peptide tags have been designed to bind to a specific region of parvalbumin on the basis of amino acid sequence homology with this segment. Multivalent ligands were produced by coupling the synthetic peptides to activated dextran polymers and binding was assessed by chemiluminescence of enhanced avidity reactions using a high density of target protein at the binding surface. Binding of the peptide ligands to parvalbumin was strongest under assay conditions that enriched for native monomeric protein and was affected by pH, temperature and solvent conditions. The results suggest that it should be possible to develop specific reagents for tagging proteins on the basis of sequence and secondary structure information.
Hydroperoxide Isomerase: A New Enzyme of Lipid Metabolism

An enzyme has been isolated from flaxseed ( Linum usitatissimum ) which utilizes the product of lipoxidase for its substrate. The enzyme, termed hydroperoxide isomerase, converts the conjugated diene hydroperoxide of linoleic acid to the corresponding monoenoic ketohydroxy fatty acid. The structure of the latter has been determined by ultraviolet, infrared, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy; periodate and permangate oxidation; gas chromatography; and thin layer chromatography. Hydroperoxide isomerase activity has also been demonstrated in crude extracts from barley ( Hordeum vulgare ), wheat germ ( Triticum aestivum ), mung beans ( Phaseolus aureus ), and corn ( Zea mays ) and from partially purified extracts of soybean ( Glycine max ). The hydroperoxide isomerase enzyme from flaxseed has a pH optimum of 7.0. The enzyme was not inhibited by nordihydroguairetic acid, p-chloromercuribenzoic acid, or cyanide, but it was inhibited by cupric ion. One hundred per cent of the activity was lost by heating the enzyme for 1 minute at 68 C. Both linoleic and linolenic acid hydroperoxides can serve as substrates for the enzyme. The pH optimum for the hydroperoxide isomerase enzyme from barley is 6.2; from wheat germ, 6.1; and from soybean, 6.1. The identification of the hydroperoxide isomerase enzyme clarifies the role of lipoxidase in plant tissue and suggests a participation of lipid in the electron transport system.
Comparisons in research and reasoning: Toward an integrative theory of social induction

Abstract Strong scientific theories give coherence to a body of research findings, make precise predictions about key phenomena, and guide the search for new discoveries. In social psychology, some contemporary theories fall short of this ideal. Mini-theories are prevalent (cf. Van Lange, Higgins, & Kruglanski, 2011 ), many predictions are merely directional ( like this one! ) and theorizing post-hoc . Guided by experimental reasoning, many researchers emphasize—and reify —empirical differences. Taking the experimental method as an epistemological gold standard, they regard comparative thinking as a criterion of rational thinking. Using examples from social judgment and decision making, we show how comparative reasoning can constrain theoretical development and bias assessments of human rationality. To encourage movement toward stronger theory, we describe a model of inductive reasoning in social contexts.
Medicinal plants of the sierra madre: Comparative study of tarahumara and Mexican market plants

Of the 47 medicinal plants that originate from the Sierra Madre Occidental of Chihuahua, Mexico, and that are sold in Chihuahuan markets, about three-fifths are used in a similar manner by both the urban Mexicans and the Tarahumara. This pattern suggests that these plants produce satisfactory effects on certain human systems, are reliable, and hence are repeatedly employed by both ethnic groups. Such plants that are used for similar ailments by 2 cultural groups with different ethnomedical concepts may be of interest for intensive research.
The gas-phase ion chemistry of methyl and ethyl borates

Abstract The fragmentation of alkyl borates appears to be controlled by the ability of the oxygen to stabilize the positive charge of the fragment ions. Medium-resolution mass spectrometry suggests structural assignments which are consistent with this assumption. For example, the ions of m/z 59 and m/z 43 for methyl borate, are assigned to be CH 3 OBOH + and CH 3 OBH + , respectively, and not BO + 3 and BO + 2 as previously reported. Several additional experimental procedures were used to further verify the structural assignments. Collision-induced dissociation was utilized to investigate the fragmentation pathways. Ion/molecule reactions indicated that many of these fragment ions contain a −BO + unit which is susceptible to nucleophilic attack. Proton affinity bracketing methods were used to obtain thermodynamic values for doubly bonded boron molecules. For CH 3 OBO, a proton affinity of 183 ± 3 kcal mol −1 and a heat of formation of −110 ± 26 kcal mol −1 were determined. For CH 3 −BCH 2 , a previously reported proton affinity value of 220.5 ± 2 kcal mol −1 suggests a heat of formation of 31 ± 6 kcal mol −1 . These values, as well as bond strengths, are compared with similar carbon compounds.
Membrane progestin receptor alpha mediates progestin-induced sperm hypermotility and increased fertilization success in southern flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma)

Progestin hormones stimulate sperm motility in teleosts but their mechanisms of action remain unclear. Preliminary results suggest that progestin upregulation of sperm motility in southern flounder and several other marine species is mediated through a sperm membrane progestin receptor with the characteristics of membrane progestin receptor alpha (mPRα, also known as Paqr7b). The hypothesis that mPRα has an important role in progestin regulation of southern flounder sperm motility and fertility was tested in the present study. The specific mPRα agonist, 10-ethenyl-19-norprogesterone (Org OD 02-0, 100nM), mimicked the stimulatory actions of the endogenous progestin, 17,20β, 21-trihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (20β-S, 100nM) on flounder sperm motility. The concentration of the mPRα protein on sperm plasma membranes was positively correlated to sperm motility as well as the responsiveness of sperm to progestin stimulation. Acute in vitro progestin treatment of sperm with high mPRα protein levels increased both sperm motility and fertilization success in strip spawning experiments. However, in vitro progestin treatments were ineffective on sperm with low receptor abundance. A single injection of the superactive gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog (LHRHa, 100μg/kg) increased sperm motility and fertilization success in strip spawning experiments 72h post-injection which was accompanied by an increase in mPRα protein concentrations on sperm plasma membranes. These results provide clear evidence that southern flounder sperm hypermotility is mediated through mPRα. Stimulatory G proteins, but not inhibitory G proteins, were identified in flounder sperm plasma membrane fractions. The finding that treatment of flounder sperm plasma membrane fractions with either 20β-S or Org OD 02-0 increases cAMP levels suggests progestins stimulate flounder sperm motility by activating an mPRα/stimulatory G protein/membrane adenylyl cyclase pathway. A similar mechanism has been identified in Atlantic croaker, suggesting that the signaling pathway mediated by mPRα in sperm is highly conserved in advanced teleosts. Collectively, our results indicate that progestin-stimulation of flounder sperm hypermotility and fertility is dependent on a sufficient concentration of mPRα which can be upregulated by in vivo LHRHa treatments. These findings potentially have practical applications for enhancing the fertility of male flounder broodstock.