cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Meaning naturalism, meaning irrealism, and the work of language

I defend the hypothesis that organisms that produce and recognize meaningful utterances tend to use simpler procedures, and should use the simplest procedures, to produce and recognize those utterances. This should be a basic principle of any naturalist theory of meaning, which must begin with the recognition that the production and understanding of meanings is work. One measure of such work is the minimal amount of space resources that must go into storing a procedure to produce or recognize a meaningful utterance. This cost has an objective measure, called Kolmogorov Complexity. I illustrate the use of this measure for a naturalist theory of meaning by showing how it offers a straight solution to one of the most influential arguments for meaning irrealism: the skeptical challenge posed by Kripke’s Wittgenstein.
The Zone Diet and Athletic Performance

The Zone diet is the latest eating regimen marketed to improve athletic performance by opposing traditional high carbohydrate sports diets. The 40/30/30 diet is centred primarily on protein intake (1.8 to 2.2 g/kg fat free mass; i.e. total bodyweight-fat weight) and promises a change in the body's insulin to glucagon ratio through its macronutrient alterations. Changes in the existing hormonal milieu are said to result in the production of more vasoactive eicosanoids, thus allowing greater oxygen delivery to exercising muscle. This favourable condition, known as the Zone, is anecdotally reported to benefit even the most elite endurance athletes. Applying the Zone's suggested protein needs and macronutrient distributions in practice, it is clear that it is a low carbohydrate diet by both relative and absolute standards, as well as calorie deficient by any standard. Reliable and abundant peer reviewed literature is in opposition to the suggestion that such a diet can support competitive athletic endeavours, much less improve them. The notion that a 40/30/30 diet can alter the pancreatic hormone response in favour of glucagon is also unfounded. The Zone is a mixed diet and not likely to affect pancreatic hormone release in the same way individual nutrients can. Although the postprandial insulin response is reduced when comparing a 40% with a 60% carbohydrate diet, it is still a sufficient stimulus to offset the lipolytic effects of glucagon. Many of the promised benefits of the Zone are based on selective information regarding hormonal influences on eicosanoid biology. Contradictory information is conveniently left out. The principle of vasodilating muscle arterioles by altering eicosanoid production is notably correct in theory. However, what little human evidence is available does not support any significant contribution of eicosanoids to active muscle vasodilation. In fact, the key eicosanoid reportedly produced in the Zone and responsible for improved muscle oxygenation is not found in skeletal muscle. Based on the best available scientific evidence, the Zone diet should be considered more ergolytic than ergogenic to performance.
Convergence characteristics of augmented Hessian models for separations

Abstract Previous research has shown that the form and number of MESH equations used to describe distillation/extraction systems can change both the linearity and convergence characteristics. In this paper, the structures of the equation sets for distillation and extraction models are analyzed in terms of the form of the three dimensional Hessian associated with them. It is known that for highly nonlinear equilibrium stage problems the N(2C+1), N(2C+3) variable forms used in the Naphthali-Sandholm model are more difficult to converge than newer models of Ricker-Nakashio-King and Krishnamurthy-Taylor that have N(4C) and N(5C+1) variables respectively. The convergence behavior of specific equation sets that augment the size of the Hessian are compared with the standard forms.
Transport mechanism of carbon dioxide through perfluorosulfonate ionomer membranes containing an amine carrier

Abstract A new facilitated transport model for CO 2 through ion-exchange membranes containing a diamine complexing agent was developed. The diamine ion behaves as a mobile carrier for CO 2 . Although the morphology of the ion-exchange membrane affects carrier transport, the effect of morphology on ionic carrier transport is not clear. The Nernst-Planck equation and the penetration model were employed in this modeling study. The electrical double layer effect and friction effect in the ion-exchange membrane was also considered. In the membrane, there are two kinds of counter ions (NH 3 + -R-NH 2 and NH 3 + -R-NH 3 + ), CO 2 and NH 3 + -R-NHCOO − (carbamate ion). The carbamate ion can be treated as a neutral molecule because it has both plus and minus charge. Commercial Nafion 117 (N117) and heat treated Nafion117 (HN117) were used as ion-exchange membranes. The water content of N117 and HN117 was 16 and 45%, respectively. Nafion has cluster channels which were filled with water, and HN117 has a larger cluster channel size than N117. Monoprotonated ethylenediamine was used as a carrier. Mobile counter ion diffusivities were measured by membrane conductivity. Carbon dioxide diffusivity was determined from transport measurements in a nonreactive Nafion membrane. The diffusivity ratio of carbamate ion to CO 2 was estimated by the group contribution method which is effective in aqueous solutions. We estimated a friction effect for the carbamate ion which reduces the carbamate ion diffusivity ratio in the cluster channel. For the HN117 membrane case, experimental results and simulations were in good agreement when we used the diffusivity ratio which was estimated from the group contribution method. The counter ion diffusivities, which are restricted by electrical forces, are the rate limiting step for CO 2 transport through large clusters. For the N117 case, we must consider the friction effect, and when we use a small carbamate diffusivity ratio, simulations and experimental results agreed well. The diffusivity of the carbamate ion, which is the largest molecule in the membrane, is the rate limiting step for transport through small cluster channels. This model can explain the permeate-side CO 2 pressure effect as the permeate-side CO 2 pressure seriously reduces the facilitation effect.
North-south asymmetries of solar particle events in upper stratospheric ozone

Stratospheric ozone depressions, following intense solar particle events (SPE) observed by the backscattered ultraviolet (BUV) experiment on the Nimbus-4 satellite, indicate the existence of distinct asymmetries between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. These asymmetries are observed in the magnitude of the depressions above the 5-mb level, their temporal variations, and the spatial (i.e., latitude and longitude) dependence of these variations. Possible causes of asymmetries, shown by two events on August 4, 1972 and January 25, 1971, can be attributed to: (1) tilt of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) with respect to the earth's dipole magnetic field which influences the precipitation of energetic solar particles into the polar atmospheres; (2) differences in ozone chemistry caused by the large change in atmospheric temperature between summer and winter hemispheres; (3) seasonal differences of the stratosphere's dynamic states which are affected by upward propagating planetary waves in winter in contrast to the relatively undisturbed zonal flows in summer; and (4) topographic asymmetry between Northern and Southern Hemispheres. These effects are shown by three-dimensional plots of the events in geographic coordinates and by color contour plots of the stratospheric ozone distributions in geomagnetic and geographic polar coordinates, respectively.
Placental metastases in a patient with recurrent breast carcinoma

We present an unusual case of extensive placental micrometastases of recurrent breast carcinoma. The discrepancy between the gross and histopathologic findings in this case suggests that in the absence of gross metastases, meticulous microscopic examination may reveal a higher incidence of metastases than has been reported previously.
Interaction of water with macromolecules by dynamic mechanical analysis

The dynamic mechanical relaxation of macromolecules is found to be very sensitive to the presence of water which is strongly associated with the macromolecule. Polymers with the amide group exhibit a characteristic loss process (β or β2) in the region of 200K which is associated with the amide-water complex. Changes in the relaxation parameters with water content permit the stoichiometry of the interaction to be determined. Polymers with ionic groups on the side chain exhibit a higher temperature relaxation (β1) associated with side chain motion. This relaxation is also affected by the presence of water. Analysis of the effect of water on the loss parameters of the β2 and β1 processes has provided insight into the nature of the interaction of water with complex biological macromolecules.
Model-based data integration in clinical environments

As a result of improved hospital information-technology infrastructure and declining costs of storage media, vast amounts of physiological waveform and trend data can now be continuously collected and archived from bedside monitors in operating rooms, intensive care units, or even regular hospital rooms. The real-time or off-line processing of such volumes of high-resolution data, in attempts to turn raw data into clinically actionable information, poses significant challenges. However, it also presents researchers — and eventually clinicians — with unprecedented opportunities to move beyond the traditional individual-channel analysis of waveform data, and towards an integrative patient-monitoring framework, with likely improvements in patient care and safety. We outline some of the challenges and opportunities, and propose strategies for model-based integration of physiological data to improve patient monitoring.
The Brazilian Peppertree Drupe Feeder Megastigmus transvaalensis (Hymenoptera: Torymidae): Florida Distribution and Impact

Abstract An introduced torymid wasp, Megastigmus transvaalensis, originally reared from Rhus spp. in South Africa, was recovered from drupes of the terrestrial weed Schinus terebinthifolius in Florida. Collections of S. terebinthifolius drupes in Florida during a 2-year period indicated that M. transvaalensis was present at all 18 sites surveyed and this was the only insect that emerged from these drupes. Dissections of drupes collected during the winter fruiting period indicated that wasps damaged 23.5 ± 2.8% of the drupes during 1997–1998 and 38.5 ± 4.2% of the drupes during 1998–1999. During the spring fruit production period, 76.3 ± 3.6% of the drupes were damaged by the wasp in 1998 and 74.8 ± 3.4% during the same period of 1999. Germination tests of wasp-damaged drupes indicated that none of the infested seeds were viable. Purportedly diapausing wasps emerged more rapidly from rearing conditions that included a 12-h compared to a 14-h photoperiod. Utilization of alternate hosts was not detected despite attempts to rear the wasp from drupes of the native species within and outside the Anacardiaceae family found in the Florida range of S. terebinthifolius.
Cytological Changes of the Conjunctiva in Immunoglobulin-producing Dyscrasias

Abstract The conjunctivae of 15 patients with confirmed immunoglobulin-producing dyscrasias were examined by cytological techniques. Of 13 patients with no gross ocular symptoms, 10 showed distinct epithelial cell changes and/or the presence of periodic acidSchiff (PAS)-positive cells. Two other patients with gross abnormalities of the conjunctiva revealed the presence of PAS-positive cells, Dutcher bodies, and lymphocytoid-plasma cells. Lymphomatous deposition may develop in the conjunctiva and present as conjunctival nodules or as a diffuse infiltration. It is concluded that the cytological preparation of conjunctival smears may serve as a sensitive indicator of systemic immunoglobulin-producing dyscrasias.
Molecular biology of 11β-hydroxylase and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymes

There are two steroid 11β-hydroxylase isozymes encoded by the CYP11B1 and CYP11B2 genes on human chromosome 8q. The first is expressed at high levels in the normal adrenal gland, has 11β-hydroxylase activity and is regulated by ACTH. Mutations in the corresponding gene cause congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 11β-hydroxylase deficiency; thus, this isozyme is required for cortisol biosynthesis. The second isozyme is expressed at low levels in the normal adrenal gland but at higher levels in aldosterone-secreting tumors, and has 11β-hydroxylase, 18-hydroxylase and 18-oxidase activities. The corresponding gene is regulated by angiotensin II, and mutations in this gene are found in persons who are unable to synthesize aldosterone due to corticosterone methyloxidase II deficiency. Thus, this isozyme is required for aldosterone biosynthesis. Cortisol and aldosterone are both effective ligands of the "mineralocorticoid" receptor in vitro, but only aldosterone is a potent mineralocorticoid in vivo. This apparent specificity occurs because 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in the kidney converts cortisol to cortisone, which is not a ligand for the receptor. This enzyme is a "short-chain" dehydrogenase which is encoded by a single gene on human chromosome 1. It is possible that mutations in this gene cause a form of childhood hypertension called apparent mineralocorticoid excess, in which the mineralocorticoid receptor is not protected from high concentrations of cortisol.
Gene-environment interplay, family relationships, and child adjustment

This paper reviews behavioral genetic research from the past decade that has moved beyond simply studying the independent influences of genes and environments. The studies considered in this review have instead focused on understanding gene – environment interplay, including genotype – environment correlation ( rGE) and genotype × environment interaction (G × E). Studies have suggested that rGE is an important pathway through which family relationships are associated with child adjustment. Also important are direct causal influences of family relationships on child adjustment, independent of genetic confounds. Other studies have indicated that genetic and environmental influences on child adjustment are moderated by different levels of family relationships in G × E interactions. Genetically informed studies that have examined family relations have been critical to advancing our understanding of gene – environment interplay.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: Changing Epidemiologic Patterns in California 1989-2004

Objective To evaluate the changes of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) epidemiology in California. Study design We used 1989 to 2004 California statewide death registry data. SIDS cases were selected by "age of decedent" Results We identified 6303 cases (61% males) of SIDS. SIDS incidence rate decreased by 77%, from 1.38 per 1000 births in 1989 to 0.31 per 1000 births in 2004. No further decrease in SIDS incidence was noted from 2002 to 2004. The incidence rate was highest among blacks (2.02 per 1000 births) and lowest in Asian/Pacific Islanders (0.46 per 1000 births). The overall median age at death was 82 days, with no significant change over time. However, the peak age at death shifted from 2 months of age in 1989 to 2001 to 3 months of age in 2002 to 2004. Seasonal variation in the incidence of SIDS was attenuated. The difference in incidence rates between weekdays and weekends increased over the study period. Conclusions The incidence rate of SIDS declined in California from 1989 to 2001, with no further decline after 2002. Several epidemiologic changes were noted: The peak age of SIDS death shifted from 2 months to 3 months of age; seasonal variation diminished; and weekday to weekend difference became more pronounced.
A kinetics approach to the characterization of an IgM specific for the glycolipid asialo-GM1

Abstract The unique features of protein recognition of membrane-anchored glycolipids were investigated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) monitoring of antibody interactions with glycolipids contained in liposomes. Several positive hybridomas belonging to the IgM and IgG classes were identified when tested for binding to the glycosphingolipid asialo-GM1 (Galβ1-3GalNAclβ1-4Galβ1-4Glcβ1-1-Ceramide). Preliminary screening by enzyme immunoassay and thin layer chromatography (TLC) followed by immunostaining indicated that only those of the IgM type showed specificity for this glycosphingolipid. One of the IgMs, H2G10, was purified and further characterized using a SPR technique that involved antibody binding to liposomal asialo-GM1. This method generated kinetic and affinity constants for the interaction and confirmed the specificity of H2G10 for the terminal galactose of asialo-GM1. Interestingly, inhibition of antibody binding to asialo-GM1 liposomes by the asialo-GM1 tetrasaccharide reduced the total amount of bound antibody but increased the affinity of the antigen-antibody interaction due to an inverse relationship between tetrasaccharide concentration and the H2G10 dissociation rate constant. We believe that this effect is due to the selective inhibition of lower valency binding by the tetrasaccharide which, in turn, promotes higher avidity antibody-carbohydrate interactions. The observation that slower dissociation rate constants were also observed at high antigen to antibody ratios supports this interpretation. These results highlight the insight that kinetic data can provide in efforts to promote and inhibit high avidity interactions such as those involving proteins and carbohydrates.
Immunolocalization of GLUT1 and GLUT3 glucose transporters in primary cultured neurons and glia

Immunofluorescence analysis was used to study the cellular localization of glucose transporters 1 and 3 (GLUT1 and GLUT3) in primary rat neuronal and glial cultures. In primary cultured cerebellar granule neurons and cortical neurons, GLUT3 was detected in a pattern consistent with a generalized cell surface distribution. GLUT3 distribution corresponded most closely with the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), and showed overlapping but distinct distributions compared to synaptophysin, microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2), neurofilament protein, and growth-associated protein (GAP43). Culture of neurons in the presence of glia did not alter the cellular localization of GLUT3. GLUT1 was detectable in primary cerebellar granule neurons both at the cell surface and in the cytoplasm, and appeared decreased in neurons cocultured with glia. GLUT1, but not GLUT3, was detected in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive astrocytes present in mixed neuronal-glial cultures derived from cerebellum and cerebral cortex, as well as in cortical astrocyte cultures. GLUT1, but not GLUT3, was also detected in microglia and oligodendrocytes present in these cultures. This study indicates a generalized cell surface expression of the glucose transporters expressed in neurons and glia, rather than selective targeting to different cellular domains or subcellular locations.
A computer program for the analysis of dental arch form using the catenary curve

Abstract This paper presents the logic and details of a FORTRAN computer program which fits a two parameter catenary curve, using the method of least squares, to a set of data points arising from an exact size photograph of a dental model. Error is assessed by evaluating the difference between the observed and fitted γ values. Finally, the length of the arc is measured. The program is useful in studies related to dental arch form as a part of orthodontic treatment. The measurement of the arc length provides an assessment of space available in the dental arch, which is an important part of treatment planning for the orthodontic patient.
The attachment of RaA (218Po) to monodisperse aerosol

Abstract An attachment kinetics system for contacting a known quantity of radon ( 222 Rn) with monodisperse aerosol under carefully controlled environmental conditions was developed to study the attachment of RaA ( 218 Po) to monodisperse aerosols as a function of particle size, particle concentration, particle composition, temperature, relative humidity, radon concentration and retention time. Monodisperse aerosols with diameters ranging from 2 to 10 μm were studied. A complete mathematical model was derived to describe the whole experiment and relate the measured quantities to the attachment constant. The plateout of RaA onto the wall surface of the chamber was examined in terms of a plateout constant in order to correct for the wall loss of RaA in the attachment measurements. It was found that the plateout constant decreases with increasing temperature and/or relative humidity. From the attachment measurements, the attachment constant was found to be proportional to particle concentration and particle cross-section area and insensitive to the surface composition of the particles. The probability of an RaA particle collision leading to an attachment to the surface is expressed as the sticking coefficient. The sticking coefficient was found to decrease with increasing temperature and/or relative humidity.
Domain-decomposition algorithm applied to multielement airfoil grids

Multiblock grids are generated and used to solve the Euler equations for multiple-element airfoil sections. The grids are generated using an algorithm which automates several stages in the decomposition of arbitrary, two-dimensional domains into nonoverlapping, topologically rectangular regions. Because the grids are constructed so that coordinate lines are continuous across block interfaces, local accuracy estimates may be found analytically, and they indicate local second-order accuracy
The effect of traditional classroom assessment on science learning and understanding of the processes of science

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between the presence of traditional classroom assessment (tests and quizzes) and science achievement of students in elementary science methods courses at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. A further objective of this study was to determine if students’ perceptions about a particular class assessment situation (testing and nontesting) have an effect on how they respond to the class or subject being covered. Students were divided into testing groups (those that received traditional testing throughout the semester) and nontesting groups (those that received no traditional testing, only projects and presentations). A pretest-posttest nonequivalent group design was utilized for this quasi-experimental study. The independent variable was the presence or absence of traditional testing in the science classroom. The dependent variables were the achievement in and understanding of science as measured by the Test of Integrated Process Skills (TIPS) and the Science Test for Elementary Methods (STEM). Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was used as the data analysis procedure. No significant differences existed between the science achievement of elementary science methods students in testing situations as indicated by the TIPS and the STEM.
Optical phase unwrapping in the presence of branch points

Strong turbulence causes phase discontinuities known as branch points in an optical field. These discontinuities complicate the phase unwrapping necessary to apply phase corrections onto a deformable mirror in an adaptive optics (AO) system. This paper proposes a non-optimal but effective and implementable phase unwrapping method for optical fields containing branch points. This method first applies a least-squares (LS) unwrapper to the field which isolates and unwraps the LS component of the field. Four modulo-2π-equivalent non-LS components are created by subtracting the LS component from the original field and then restricting the result to differing ranges. 2π phase jumps known as branch cuts are isolated to the non-LS components and the different non-LS realizations have different branch cut placements. The best placement of branch cuts is determined by finding the non-LS realization with the lowest normalized cut length and adding it to the LS component. The result is an unwrapped field which is modulo-2π-equivalent to the original field while minimizing the effect of phase cuts on system performance. This variable-range ‘ϕLS+ϕnon-LS’ unwrapper, is found to outperform other unwrappers designed to work in the presence of branch points at a reasonable computational burden. The effect of improved unwrapping is demonstrated by comparing the performance of a system using a fixed-range ‘ϕLS+ϕnon-LS’ realization unwrapper against the variable-range ‘ϕLS+ϕnon-LS’ unwrapper in a closed-loop simulation. For the 0.5 log-amplitude variance turbulence tested, the system Strehl performance is improved by as much as 41.6 percent at points where fixed-range ‘ϕLS+ϕnon-LS’ unwrappers result in particularly poor branch cut placement. This significant improvement in previously poorly performing regions is particularly important for systems such as laser communications which require minimum Strehl ratios to operate successfully.
Acquiring new word meaning: What does it tell us about development

Abstract R. J. Sternberg (1984, Developmental Review , 4 , 113–138) offers a thoughtful and provocative essay on how individuals acquire meanings for novel or unfamiliar nouns. The Sternberg essay, however, is incomplete on a number of grounds. By stressing general processes and specific knowledge as critical components in the acquisition of verbal concepts, for example, it overlooks two logically complementary categories—specific processes and general knowledge—and the role these play in the acquisitions in question. A second concern is that the paper blurs distinctions among development, short-term learning, and the origin/acquisition of individual differences. Finally, Sternberg is encouraged to frame the specific phenomenon described here within the context of a larger theory of intellectual development and to indicate what else this specific model can be used to explain.
FIRST-ORDER PHASE TRANSITION IN CUBIC ICE

Abstract First-order phase transition in cubic ice between the low-temperature phase VIII and the high-temperature phase VII is studied in an extended mean-field approximation. It is assumed that the arrangements of four protons around each oxygen satisfy the ice condition rigorously, i.e., there are exactly two protons at one time situated closer to the central oxygen forming an electric dipole and the remaining two protons are situated away from the central oxygen. Because of the cubic structure of the oxygen lattice and the diamond structure of the hydrogen bonding, there are six equivalent directions of the electric dipole, around each oxygen perpendicular to the cube faces, in the disorder phase, while there is only one preferred direction of the dipole in the ordered phase. This large entropy difference seems to be the main reason for the first-order phase transition in this system.
Ground water under direct influence of surface water

The Surface Water Treatment Rule and the Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule classify some ground-water sources as “ground water under the direct influence of surface water” (GWUDI), and ground waters classified as GWUDI must follow the same treatment guidelines as surface-water sources. The microscopic particulate analysis (MPA) method is the most widely used method to identify GWUDI; however, this method has several deficiencies. An improved protocol for classifying ground-water sources as GWUDI is presented in this paper. The procedure consists of calculating the absolute risk of illness from waterborne \IGiardia\N and \ICryptosporidium\N in the pumped water, accounting for the uncertainty in the surface-water concentrations, hydrogeology, straining characteristics, pathogen viability in ground water, and observations of \IGiardia\N and \ICryptosporidium\N in samples of the pumped water. In cases where the risk of illness exceeds the acceptable risk, the ground water should be classified as GWUDI. Two examples are presented to illustrate the application of the proposed method.
Structurally adaptive multitopic ligands containing tris(pyrazolyl)methane units as supramolecular synthons: manganese carbonyl complexes

Abstract The compounds {p-C6H4[CH2OCH2C(pz)3]2[Mn(CO)3]2}(BF4)2 (1, pz=pyrazolyl ring), {p-C6H4[CH2OCH2C(pz)3]2[Mn(CO)3]2}(OTf)2 (2, OTf−=CF3SO3−), {m-C6H4[CH2OCH2C(pz)3]2[Mn(CO)3]2}(BF4)2 (3) and {1,2,4,5-C6H2[CH2OCH2C(pz)3]4[Mn(CO)3]4}(BF4)4 (4) have been prepared by reaction of the respective ligands with ‘Mn(CO)5+’, prepared ‘in situ’ from the reaction of Mn(CO)5Br and AgBF4 or AgOTf in refluxing acetone. In the structures of all four complexes, the environment around the manganese atom is a slightly distorted octahedron, with the distortion caused by the restricted bite angle of the κ3-bonded tris(pyrazolyl)methane ligand. The structurally adaptive ligands in all four complexes support extended three-dimensional (3D) supramolecular structures. An important organizational feature for the three BF4− complexes is a double π–π and CH⋯π interaction involving the pyrazolyl rings. The double π–π/CH⋯π interaction is intermolecular in 1 and 3 leading to the formation of chains and sheets. In the case of the tetratopic ligand in complex 4, the π–π/CH⋯π interaction is intramolecular between adjacent (ortho) side arms. These supramolecular structures are also supported by weak CH⋯F hydrogen bonds. For 3, classic π–π interactions of the central arene rings are also involved in organizing the 3D network. For 2, the structure is organized solely by CH⋯O hydrogen bonding.
SU-D-105-01: Patient-Specific Quality Assurance for Monte Carlo-Calculated Lung SBRT On Cyberknife - Is It Necessary?

Purpose: In transitioning from ray-tracing (RT) to Monte Carlo (MC) dose computation algorithm for Cyberknife lung stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), we realized large differences (10–20%) in PTV coverage to heterogeneous target regions which required dosimetric confirmation. Currently, our practice requires an independent second calculation for all plans. MuCheck software (Oncology Data Systems) is used in lieu of physical measurements for RT plans; however, there exists no commercial software for verifying MC plans. We determined all lung SBRT plans should utilize the MC algorithm and initially be confirmed by direct measurements. Methods: Lung treatment plans were first optimized with RT then recalculated using MC for final optimization and high-resolution dose computation. The MC plan was superimposed on a heterogeneous thorax phantom CT (Standard Imaging 91230) using the phantom overlay tool of the MultiPlan 3.5.2 software. Isodose distributions were manually shifted to place the ion chamber (0.053cc Exradin-A1SL) in a suitably homogeneous region within the CTV. The plan was then delivered to the thorax phantom with the ion chamber placed in the mediastinum insert location. Results: This methodology was used for 33 consecutive lung patients receiving Cyberknife SBRT with PTVs ranging from 10.7–185.9cm3. The mean deviation between measured and MC calculated doses was −2.31%±1.66%. The maximum deviation was −4.69%. Acceptable tolerance for patient-specific QA was considered ±5%. Conclusion: The MC algorithm provides improved accuracy over RT for heterogeneous dose calculation, confirmed by direct point measurements. Patient-specific QA using a heterogeneous lung phantom provided an acceptable anthropomorphic approximation of patient plans calculated with MC. Since the QA results establish satisfactory delivery of MC doses, patient-specific plans calculated on a homogeneous phantom comparing RT and MC algorithms may provide a suitable second check without direct measurement. Conversely, many users may continue direct measurement as a second check until commercial MC verification software becomes available.
Danazol-testosterone combination: A potentially effective means for reversible male contraception. A preliminary report

Abstract Danazol (an analogue of ethinyl testosterone) was administered to normal adult male volunteers alone or in combination with testosterone propionate or testosterone enanthate to determine the effects on sperm concentration. The drugs were administered for four months. Danazol (600 mg/day) orally (p.o.) produced a modest reduction in sperm counts but danazol (p.o.) plus testosterone propionate 10 mg intramuscularly three times weekly reduced sperm counts to below 2 million/ml in 3 of 4 men. Danazol (600 mg/day, p.o.) plus testosterone enanthate 200 mg intramuscularly once monthly dropped sperm counts to less than 1 million/ml in 3 of 3 men within eight weeks. Androgen withdrawal symptoms were not observed when testosterone was added to the danazol as a combined regimen. It is suggested that danazol plus relatively small doses of testosterone may prove to be an effective and safe male contraceptive.
Association Analysis of 94 Candidate Genes and Schizophrenia-Related Endophenotypes

While it is clear that schizophrenia is highly heritable, the genetic basis of this heritability is complex. Human genetic, brain imaging, and model organism studies have met with only modest gains. A complementary research tactic is to evaluate the genetic substrates of quantitative endophenotypes with demonstrated deficits in schizophrenia patients. We used an Illumina custom 1,536-SNP array to interrogate 94 functionally relevant candidate genes for schizophrenia and evaluate association with both the qualitative diagnosis of schizophrenia and quantitative endophenotypes for schizophrenia. Subjects included 219 schizophrenia patients and normal comparison subjects of European ancestry and 76 schizophrenia patients and normal comparison subjects of African ancestry, all ascertained by the UCSD Schizophrenia Research Program. Six neurophysiological and neurocognitive endophenotype test paradigms were assessed: prepulse inhibition (PPI), P50 suppression, the antisaccade oculomotor task, the Letter-Number Span Test, the California Verbal Learning Test-II, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test-64 Card Version. These endophenotype test paradigms yielded six primary endophenotypes with prior evidence of heritability and demonstrated schizophrenia-related impairments, as well as eight secondary measures investigated as candidate endophenotypes. Schizophrenia patients showed significant deficits on ten of the endophenotypic measures, replicating prior studies and facilitating genetic analyses of these phenotypes. A total of 38 genes were found to be associated with at least one endophenotypic measure or schizophrenia with an empirical p-value<0.01. Many of these genes have been shown to interact on a molecular level, and eleven genes displayed evidence for pleiotropy, revealing associations with three or more endophenotypic measures. Among these genes were ERBB4 and NRG1, providing further support for a role of these genes in schizophrenia susceptibility. The observation of extensive pleiotropy for some genes and singular associations for others in our data may suggest both converging and independent genetic (and neural) pathways mediating schizophrenia risk and pathogenesis.
Psychological and social adjustment of obese children and their families.

Summary The psychological and social adjustment of 30 obese children and their families was examined. Mothers completed the Child Behaviour Checklist and the Family Environment Scale; children completed the Self-Perception Profile for Children. The results consistently indicate that the obese children were less socially competent, had more behaviour problems, and had poorer self-perceptions than the non-obese normative samples. Families of obese children differed significantly from families in the non-distressed normative sample in that they interacted in a more negative way. The findings are discussed in terms of an ‘at risk profile’ and the implications for the behavioural treatment of obese children.
Extending logical attack graphs for efficient vulnerability analysis

Attack graph illustrates all possible multi-stage, multi-host attacks in an enterprise network and is essential for vulnerability analysis tools. Recently, researchers have addressed the problem of scalable generation of attack graph by logical formulation of vulnerability analysis in an existing framework called MulVAL. In this paper, we take a step further to make attack graph-based vulnerability analysis useful and practical for real networks. Firstly, we extend the MulVAL framework to include more complex security policies existing in advanced operating systems. Secondly, we present an expressive view of the attack graph by including negation in the logical characterization, and we present an algorithm to generate it. Finally, we present an incremental algorithm which efficiently recomputes the attack graph in response to the changes in the inputs of the vulnerability analysis framework. This is particularly useful for mutation or "what-if" analysis, where network administrators want to view the effect of network or host parameter changes to the attack graph before pushing the changes on the network. Preliminary experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of our algorithms.
Evaluating Integrals Using Self-Similarity

(2000). Evaluating Integrals Using Self-Similarity. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 107, No. 4, pp. 316-326.
Laser Doppler velocimetry of a fast beam with a temperature stabilized solid etalon

Abstract We report a precise velocity measurement of a fast atomic lithium beam using a calibrated solid etalon. This technique is important to our program of precision atomic lifetime measurements which includes the 2p states of neutral 7Li. For our lifetime measurements, we use a dye laser crossed with a fast lithium beam to selectively excite the 2 p 2 P 1 2 , 3 2 states from the 2 s 2 S 1 2 ground state, and photon-counting detectors record the decay in flight of the fluorescence. With the laser aligned antiparallel to the atomic beam direction, we use a calibrated solid etalon to measure the Doppler shift of the 2 s 2 S 1 2 → 2 p 2 P 3 2 resonance to be 1742.67(53) GHz. The resulting velocity converts our position scale to a time scale with a precision of 0.03%.
EFFECT OF SALT, SODIUM TRIPOLYPHOSPHATE AND STORAGE ON RESTRUCTURED PORK

The effect of 20 combinations of salt and sodium tripolyphosphate (STP) on restructured pork were studied. Added salt increased TBA values, packaging loss, improved cooked color, aroma, flavor and eating texture and decreased cooking loss and raw color. Increase in STP decreased cooking loss and increased TBA values, packaging loss, raw color and juiciness. Synergism between salt and STP was shown for most traits studied. Storage increased TBA values, water-holding capacity and juiciness rating and decreased cooking loss, raw color, cooked color, aroma, flavor and eating texture. Among the 20 combination levels, 0.75% salt and 0.125% STP were the most desirable for producing restructured pork.
Expansion of surface epithelium provides the major extrinsic force for bending of the neural plate.

Neurulation, formation of the neural tube, requires both intrinsic forces (i.e., those generated within the neural plate) and extrinsic forces (i.e., those generated outside the neural plate in adjacent tissues), but the precise origin of these forces is unclear. In this study, we addressed the question of which tissue produces the major extrinsic force driving bending of the neural plate. We have previously shown that 1) extrinsic forces are required for bending and 2) such forces are generated lateral to the neural plate. Three tissues flank the neural plate prior to its bending: surface epithelium, mesoderm, and endoderm. In the present study, we removed two of these layers, namely, the endoderm and mesoderm, underlying and lateral to the neural plate; bending still occurred, often with complete formation of a neural tube, although the latter usually rotated toward the side of tissue depletion. These results suggest that the surface epithelium, the only tissue remaining after microsurgery, provides the major extrinsic force for bending of the neural plate and that the mesoderm (and perhaps endoderm) stabilizes the neuraxis, maintaining its proper orientation and position on the midline.
Shock vaporization of silica and the thermodynamics of planetary impact events

[1] The most energetic planetary collisions attain shock pressures that result in abundant melting and vaporization. Accurate predictions of the extent of melting and vaporization require knowledge of vast regions of the phase diagrams of the constituent materials. To reach the liquid-vapor phase boundary of silica, we conducted uniaxial shock-and-release experiments, where quartz was shocked to a state sufficient to initiate vaporization upon isentropic decompression (hundreds of GPa). The apparent temperature of the decompressing fluid was measured with a streaked optical pyrometer, and the bulk density was inferred by stagnation onto a standard window. To interpret the observed post-shock temperatures, we developed a model for the apparent temperature of a material isentropically decompressing through the liquid-vapor coexistence region. Using published thermodynamic data, we revised the liquid-vapor boundary for silica and calculated the entropy on the quartz Hugoniot. The silica post-shock temperature measurements, up to entropies beyond the critical point, are in excellent qualitative agreement with the predictions from the decompressing two-phase mixture model. Shock-and-release experiments provide an accurate measurement of the temperature on the phase boundary for entropies below the critical point, with increasing uncertainties near and above the critical point entropy. Our new criteria for shock-induced vaporization of quartz are much lower than previous estimates, primarily because of the revised entropy on the Hugoniot. As the thermodynamics of other silicates are expected to be similar to quartz, vaporization is a significant process during high-velocity planetary collisions.
Notch signaling in stomach epithelial stem cell homeostasis

The mammalian adult gastric epithelium self-renews continually through the activity of stem cells located in the isthmus of individual gland units. Mechanisms facilitating stomach stem and progenitor cell homeostasis are unknown. Here, we show that Notch signaling occurs in the mouse stomach epithelium during development and becomes restricted mainly to the isthmus in adult glands, akin to its known localization in the proliferative compartment of intestinal villi. Using genetic and chemical inhibition, we demonstrate that Notch signaling is required to maintain the gastric stem cell compartment. Activation of Notch signaling in lineage-committed stomach epithelial cells is sufficient to induce dedifferentiation into stem and/or multipotential progenitors that populate the mucosa with all major cell types. Prolonged Notch activation within dedifferentiated parietal cells eventually enhances cell proliferation and induces adenomas that show focal Wnt signaling. In contrast, Notch activation within native antral stomach stem cells does not affect cell proliferation. These results establish a role for Notch activity in the foregut and highlight the importance of cellular context in gastric tumorigenesis.
A DSP Prediction Methodology

The objective of this chapter is to illustrate the application of the general prediction methodology concepts discussed in Section 3.2 by explaining how the implementation performance predictions are obtained for the case of digital filter design. Based on the initial functional specifications and a high-level roadmap for how the design is to proceed, i.e., the design plan, we seek to predict the eventual implementation performance.
Tracking highly maneuverable targets with unknown behavior

Tracking of highly maneuvering targets with unknown behavior is a difficult problem in sequential state estimation. The performance of predictive-model-based Bayesian state estimators deteriorates quickly when their models are no longer accurate or their process noise is large. A data-driven approach to tracking, the segmenting track identifier (STI), is presented as an algorithm that operates well in environments where the measurement system is well understood but target motion is either or both highly unpredictable or poorly characterized. The STI achieves improved state estimates by the least-squares fitting of a motion model to a segment of data that has been partitioned from the total track such that it represents a single maneuver. Real-world STI tracking performance is demonstrated using sonar data collected from free-swimming fish, where the STI is shown to be effective at tracking highly maneuvering targets while relatively insensitive to its tuning parameters. Additionally, an extension of the STI to allow its use in the most common multiple target and cluttered environment data association frameworks is presented, and an STI-based joint probabilistic data association filter (STIJPDAF) is derived as a specific example. The STIJPDAF is shown by simulation to be effective at tracking a single fish in clutter and through empirical results from video data to be effective at simultaneously tracking multiple free-swimming fish.
A programmable microfluidic cell array for combinatorial drug screening

We describe the development of a fully automatic and programmable microfluidic cell culture array that integrates on-chip generation of drug concentrations and pair-wise combinations with parallel culture of cells for drug candidate screening applications. The device has 64 individually addressable cell culture chambers in which cells can be cultured and exposed either sequentially or simultaneously to 64 pair-wise concentration combinations of two drugs. For sequential exposure, a simple microfluidic diffusive mixer is used to generate different concentrations of drugs from two inputs. For generation of 64 pair-wise combinations from two drug inputs, a novel time dependent variable concentration scheme is used in conjunction with the simple diffusive mixer to generate the desired combinations without the need for complex multi-layer structures or continuous medium perfusion. The generation of drug combinations and exposure to specific cell culture chambers are controlled using a LabVIEW interface capable of automatically running a multi-day drug screening experiment. Our cell array does not require continuous perfusion for keeping cells exposed to concentration gradients, minimizing the amount of drug used per experiment, and cells cultured in the chamber are not exposed to significant shear stress continuously. The utility of this platform is demonstrated for inducing loss of viability of PC3 prostate cancer cells using combinations of either doxorubicin or mitoxantrone with TRAIL (TNF-alpha Related Apoptosis Inducing Ligand) either in a sequential or simultaneous format. Our results demonstrate that the device can capture the synergy between different sensitizer drugs and TRAIL and demonstrate the potential of the microfluidic cell array for screening and optimizing combinatorial drug treatments for cancer therapy.
METABOLIC ROUTING OF DIETARY NUTRIENTS IN BIRDS: EFFECTS OF DIETARY LIPID CONCENTRATION ON δ13C OF DEPOT FAT AND ITS ECOLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS

Abstract During migration, many songbirds eat primarily fruit while depositing fat. Given that some fruits contain mostly carbohydrate and others contain mostly lipid, the ability of birds to fatten may depend on the macronutrient composition of the fruit. Stable isotopes of carbon may be useful in determining the source of nutrients used for synthesizing fat, because the enzyme that regulates the transfer of carbon skeletons from carbohydrate into fat synthesis has a higher affinity for 12C than for 13C, whereas dietary lipids can be directly incorporated into animal fat. Thus, fat stores of animals that are synthesized directly from dietary lipid should have isotopic signatures similar to dietary lipid, whereas biosynthesis of fats from dietary carbohydrates should produce changes in isotopic signatures. We tested these predictions by manipulating the concentrations and isotopic signatures of macronutrients in diets fed to Yellow-rumped Warblers (Dendroica coronata). The δ13C of depot fat in birds fed h...