cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Instability of the growth-limiting proteins of the Avena coleoptile and their pool size in relation to auxin.

The stability and pool size of the growth-limiting proteins (GLP) of the Avena coleoptile have been studied by measuring the time required for cycloheximide to inhibit the growth of auxin-treated segments. Inhibition of growth follows inhibition of protein synthesis by 20–25 min regardless of the growth rate. This indicates that the growth inhibition is due to inherent instability of the GLP rather than to exhaustion of the pool through growth. A study of the amount and rate of auxin-induced growth which occurs when cycloheximide is added just before or after the auxin indicates that the rate of elongation is determined by the size of the GLP pool, and that the pool of GLP is low in the absence of auxin, but rapidly expands and reaches a maximum 20–25 min after addition of auxin. Three ways in which auxin might expand the pool of GLP are discussed.
Scanning tunneling microscopy studies of the growth process of Ge on Si(001)

Abstract The growth process of Ge on Si(001) has been investigated using a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) and a comprehensive picture of the major kinetic processes is obtained. Surface diffusion of Ge on Si(001) is found to be anisotropic. The two types of monoatomic steps are shown to have different lateral sticking coefficients for Ge adatoms. The transition from 2D to 3D growth is found to occur via a kinetic pathway - a novel type of intermediate 3D cluster.
Efficient and Scalable Pareto Optimization by Evolutionary Local Selection Algorithms

Local selection is a simple selection scheme in evolutionary computation. Individual fitnesses are accumulated over time and compared to a fixed threshold, rather than to each other, to decide who gets to reproduce. Local selection, coupled with fitness functions stemming from the consumption of finite shared environmental resources, maintains diversity in a way similar to fitness sharing. However, it is more efficient than fitness sharing and lends itself to parallel implementations for distributed tasks. While local selection is not prone to premature convergence, it applies minimal selection pressure to the population. Local selection is, therefore, particularly suited to Pareto optimization or problem classes where diverse solutions must be covered. This paper introduces ELSA, an evolutionary algorithm employing local selection and outlines three experiments in which ELSA is applied to multiobjective problems: a multimodal graph search problem, and two Pareto optimization problems. In all these experiments, ELSA significantly outperforms other well-known evolutionary algorithms. The paper also discusses scalability, parameter dependence, and the potential distributed applications of the algorithm.
A wink and a nod: notes from the Arizona borderlands

Notes from the Arizona Borderlands explores impunity as a social process and examines how indifference is produced locally with relation to the inhumane treatment of migrants crossing the Arizona–Mexico border.
Analysis of convex Ferguson plots in agarose gel electrophoresis by empirical computer modeling

Agarose gel electrophoresis has been shown to give rise to non-linear plots of log (mobility) vs. gel concentration of spherical viruses (Serwer,[1]) and cellular vesicles (Gottlieb et al.[2]). This finding also applies to proteins as shown in this study. Considering that in the non-linear plot, the slope becomes a function of gel concentration, it is possible to determine particle properties and gel parameters by a modification of the conventional method derived from the Ogston theory for long-fiber gels. This treatment shows: (a) In application to data obtained from gel electrophoresis (0.4 to 1.6 % agarose) of viruses (13 to 42 nm radius) and with increasing gel concentration: (i) an increase of apparent total fiber length per g agarose matrix, (ii) a reduction of apparent fiber radius and (iii) a constant fiber volume (per g matrix material) of the agarose fiber. The values of the fiber radii identify the fibers as agarose supercoils (or aggregates of it) with a radius of 20–55 nm. (b) In application to data obtained from gel electrophoresis (1.2 to 8 % agarose) of proteins (1.7 to 5.8 nm radius): a fiber volume indicative of additional sieving by the agarose double helix (of known radius of 0.5–2 nm). This is in agreement with a previous suggestion by Serwer [1] that proteins are able to penetrate into the double-helical network of which the agarose supercoil consists. (c) The likelihood of a continuous transition from case (a) to case (b).
Vasopressin antagonists in CHF: Ready for clinical trials?

See article by Naitoh et al. [7] (pages 51–57) in this issue. Improving survival in congestive heart failure is currently based on blunting the effects of inappropriately increased adrenergic drive, as well as of increased circulating and tissue levels of angiotensin II and aldosterone [1–5].The sympathetic nervous system and renin–angiotensin system comprise two of the three components of the ‘neurohumoral axis’ originally proposed as links to the fundamental pathophysiology of heart failure in 1984 [6]. The third component of that axis as originally postulated was arginine vasopressin (AVP). Research into the possible role of AVP in heart failure has been hampered until comparatively recently by the absence of appropriate antagonists. Now, however, highly effective antagonists of the V1a and V2 receptors for AVP are available, and at least in preliminary human studies, are safe and well tolerated. The study by Naitoh in the current issue of Cardiovascular Research [7] should stimulate considerable interest in further human work with these compounds. The decision to target a ‘neurohumoral’ or other substance in heart failure should be based on a sound pathobiological rationale, coupled with evidence that enough of the substance in question is present to produce an adverse effect. Then one needs to perform convincing pre-clinical studies, and initially, human studies in which appropriate measurements are made in small series of subjects. Only then can or should larger outcomes studies be undertaken. What constitutes convincing preliminary evidence is, however, controversial. Traditionally, improving hemodynamic measurements or showing a beneficial effect on exercise capacity were viewed as important. Unfortunately, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, aldosterone antagonists, and beta adrenergic blockers have little or no positive short term effect on hemodynamics or exercise, yet produce significant benefits on major outcomes such as survival and hospitalization [1–5]. Other interventions including powerful vasodilators … * Tel.: +1-612-347-2875; fax: +1-612-904-4224
The obstetrical use in ancient and early modern times of Convolvulus scammonia or Scammony: another non-fungal source of ergot alkaloids?

This brief historical survey documenting the use of ergot alkaloids throughout Ancient times for obstetrical purposes (labor induction and control of uterine hemmorrhage) takes its data from works of Theophrastus (who wrote Enquiry into Plants around 300 B.C.) Pliny Dioscorides and others. What this history documents is another source for the ergot besides the fungus Clavicips purpurea; notations from Greek Mexican and English catalogers show that the family Convolvulaceae is a constant source of ergot alkaloids; this family is the home of Rivea corymbosa the morning glory seed used by Mexican Indians for both medicinal and religious purposes. In addition an argument made from salient quotations from historical texts indicates that Scammony may also contain ergot alkaloids although such compounds have yet to be chemically isolated. Only 1 extant study intimates the possible existence of ergot-like activity in Scammony a study which showed that small doses of an ether extract of Scammony resin stimulated an isolated guinea pig uterus. If Scammony does contain ergot alkaloids it is suggested that it will be an excellent source for this material since the plants cultivation is inexpensive and easy.
Autistic-like and schizotypal traits in a life history perspective: diametrical associations with impulsivity, sensation seeking, and sociosexual behavior

Abstract According to recent theoretical models, autistic-like and schizotypal traits can be regarded as opposite sides of a single continuum of variation in personality and cognition, and may be diametrically associated with individual differences in life history strategies. In this view, schizotypy is a psychological phenotype oriented toward high mating effort and reduced parenting, consistent with a fast life history strategy, whereas autistic-like traits contribute to a slow strategy characterized by reduced mating effort and high parental investment. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that autistic-like and schizotypal traits would be diametrically associated with unrestricted sociosexuality, impulsivity, and sensation seeking (three key behavioral correlates of fast life history strategies in humans) in a sample of 152 young adults (18–38 years). The results were consistent with a diametrical autism–schizotypy axis of individual variation. In line with our hypotheses, autism–schizotypy scores were uniquely associated with individual differences in impulsivity, sensation seeking, and sociosexual behavior, even after controlling for variation in Big Five personality traits. However, we found no significant associations with sociosexual attitude in the present sample. Our findings provide additional support for a life history model of autistic-like and schizotypal traits and demonstrate the heuristic value of this approach in the study of personality and psychopathology.
Investigation into the Formation of the Genotoxic Impurity Ethyl Besylate in the Final Step Manufacturing Process of UK-369,003-26, a Novel PDE5 Inhibitor

Sulfonate esters have a demonstrated potential for genotoxicity, and therefore their potential presence at trace levels in active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) has recently raised concerns [Mesylate Ester Type Impurities Contained in Medicinal Products; Swissmedic Department for Control of the Medicinal Products Market, 23rd October 2007 and Hoog, T. J.-d. Request to Assess the Risk of Occurrence of Contamination With Mesilate Esters and Other Related Compounds in Pharmaceuticals; Coordination Group for Mutual Recognition-Human Committee (CMDh), EMEA/CMDh/98694/2008: London, 27 February, 2008, ]. Sulfonate salts however, offer useful modification of physicochemical properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) containing basic groups such that their use can at times offer significant advantages over other counterions [Elder, D. P.; Delaney, E.; Teasdale, A.; Eyley, S.; Reif, V. D.; Jacq, K.; Facchine, K. L.; Oestrich, R. S.; Sandra, P.; David, F. The Utility of Sulfonate Salts in Drug Develop...
Chain length and density dependence of the chemical potential of lattice polymers

The chemical potential of lattice polymers is calculated in two alternative ways: by the Widom insertion method using the Rosenbluth and Rosenbluth sampling technique and by the modified Widom method, based on the insertion of one segment to an existing polymer chain. In the first part of this paper we present a detailed derivation of the modified Widom technique for lattice systems. We then proceed to calculate the chemical potential for chains of up to 50‐mers in monomeric and polymeric solvents. We observe marked odd‐even effects on the chemical potential. The density dependence of the chemical potential is found to vary with chain length. For most temperatures and densities studied the chemical potential of chain molecules in a fixed environment becomes linear in chain length for molecules longer than 10–20 segments. The results are compared to the classical lattice theories, which are found to be best at high densities, as expected based on previous investigations.
Catalysis of the concurrent C-H2O-H2 and methanation reactions―inhibition by sulfur

Abstract In an attempt to maximize CH4 production from the C-H2O reaction, two catalysts were used. Iron or K was added to a high surface area char, which in turn was mixed with a methanation catalyst, either Ni or Co-Mo supported on γ-Al2O3. If the γ-Al2O3 contained negligible sulfur, as was the case with a commercial Ni/Al2O3 catalyst, mixing this catalyst with the Fe-loaded char was seen to yield synergism in the rate of char gasification in a H2O/H2 gas mixture of molar ratio 0.032. Further, significant production of CH4 is realized via the reaction of CO, produced by the C-H2O reaction, with H2. However, if the γ-Al2O3 contained traces of sulfur, Fe- or K-loaded char gasification by steam exhibited a long induction period of low reactivity and concurrent low rates of CH4 production. Only when the sulfur content in the mixture was apparently reduced to a very low level did char reactivity attain a higher level, with the catalyst mixture again exhibiting synergism.
Microstructural variations in rapidly solidified alloys

Abstract Depending on alloy composition and cooling conditions, rapid solidification can produce a wide variety of microstructures. Examples are presented from material produced by three common methods of rapid solidification: surface melting and resolidification, substrate quenching and powder atomization. These examples will illustrate the microstructural similarities and differences which can occur when using these methods.
In Silico Insight into Transitional Structures and Barrier-Crossing Dynamics of DNA and RNA Oligomers

In aqueous solution under physiological conditions DNA and RNA molecules fluctuate between various non-equilibrium free energy minima on a very complicated energy surface. Due to their dynamic nature, important sequence-specific transition structures such as partial fork formations, flipped open base-pairs, and unstacked/exposed bases, are difficult to identify using experimental techniques alone. In this talk, results of molecular dynamic simulations are presented which provide insight into the structural ensembles of free DNA and RNA molecules in solution, and the comformational selection upon binding to protein partners. Complicated 5' to 3' asymmetric structures observed in simulation of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) oligomers are restricted to a subset of the available comformational space upon binding of T4 gp32 ssDNA binding protein. Sequence-specific non-equilibrium structures which involve increased exposure of the bases are shown to be crucial in the recognition and specific binding of (CUG)n repeat RNA and the MBNL1 alternative splicing regulator, one of the molecular origins of muscular dystrophy. Insight gained from these in silico simulations are used to help interpret biophysical and biochemical measurements obtained by our collaborators at the University of Oregon, and to inform the development of analytical techniques to model the important barrier-crossing dynamics in these systems.
Identification of MicroRNA-93 as a Novel Regulator of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Hyperglycemic Conditions

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a dimeric glycoprotein that plays a crucial role in microvascular complications of diabetes, including diabetic nephropathy. However, the precise regulatory mechanisms governing VEGF expression in the diabetic milieu are still poorly understood. Here, we provide evidence that microRNA-93 (miR-93) regulates VEGF expression in experimental models of diabetes both in vitro and in vivo. Comparative microRNA expression profile arrays identified miR-93 as a signature microRNA in hyperglycemic conditions. We identified VEGF-A as a putative target of miR-93 in the kidney with a perfect complementarity between miR-93 and the 3′-untranslated region of vegfa in several species. When cotransfected with a luciferase reporter construct containing the mouse vegfa 3′-untranslated region, expression of miR-93 markedly decreased the luciferase activity. We showed that forced expression of miR-93 in cells abrogated VEGF protein secretion. Conversely, anti-miR-93 inhibitors increased VEGF release. Transfection of miR-93 also prevented the effect of high glucose on VEGF downstream targets. Using transgenic mice containing VEGF-LacZ bicistronic transcripts, we found that inhibition of glomerular miR-93 by peptide-conjugated morpholino oligomers elicited increased expression of VEGF. Our findings also indicate that high glucose decreases miR-93 expression by down-regulating the promoter of the host MCM7 gene. Taken together, our findings provide new insights into the role of miR-93 in VEGF signaling pathway and offer a potentially novel target in preventing the progression of diabetic nephropathy.
Implementation of particle-in-cell stellar dynamics codes on the Connection Machine-2

The development of massively parallel supercomputers provides a unique opportunity to advance the state of the art inN-body simulations. TheseN-body codes are of great importance for simulations in stellar dynamics and plasma physics. For systems with long-range forces, such as gravity or electromagnetic forces, it is important to increase the number of particles toN ≥ 107 particles. Significantly improved modeling ofN body systems can be expected by increasingN, arising from a more realistic representation of physical transport processes involving particle diffusion and energy and momentum transport. In addition, it will be possible to guarantee that physically significant portions of complex physical systems, such as Lindblad resonances of galaxies or current sheets in magnetospheres, will have an adequate population of particles for a realistic simulation. Particle-mesh (PM) and particle-particle particle-mesh (P3M) algorithms present the best prospects for the simulation of large-scaleN-body systems. As an example we present a two-dimensional PM simulation of a disk galaxy that we have developed on the Connection Machine-2, a massively parallel boolean hypercube supercomputer. The code is scalable to any CM-2 configuration available and, on the largest configuration, simulations withN = 128 M = 227 particles are possible in reasonable run times.
Signal detection efficiency in multiphoton ionization flame measurements

Multiphoton ionization is often the most sensitive method available for detecting radical species in flame environments. To make accurate relative concentration measurements, however, the electron (or ion) detection efficiency as a function of flame position must be known. Two methods are presented for determining this quantity in a laminar CH(4)/air diffusion flame burning at atmospheric pressure: (1) simultaneous detection of ionization and fluorescence in CO, following two-photon excitation of the B(1)Sigma(+) state at 230.0 nm; (2) comparison of 3 + 1 multiphoton ionization of the 4' state of argon at 314.4 nm with mass spectrometric measurements. The results show significant variation of the electron detection efficiency in the lean, stoichiometric, and rich flame regions, with the greatest detection sensitivity observed in the high temperature, primary reaction zones (i.e., near stoichiometric conditions). Corrections to multiphoton ionization data obtained for H atoms are discussed in terms of determining relative concentration profiles across the methane/air diffusion flame.
Geology and hydrothermal evolution of the Mothra Hydrothermal Field, Endeavour Segment, Juan de Fuca Ridge

Detailed characterization of the Mothra Hydrothermal Field, the most southern and spatially extensive field on the Endeavour Segment of the Juan de Fuca Ridge, provides new insights into its geologic and hydrothermal development. Meter-scale bathymetry, side-scan sonar imagery, and direct dive observations show that Mothra is composed of six actively venting sulfide clusters spaced 40–200 m apart. Chimneys within each cluster have similar morphology and venting characteristics, and all clusters host a combination of active and extinct sulfide structures. Black smoker chimneys venting fluids above 300°C are rare, while more common lower-temperature, diffusely venting chimneys support dense colonies of macrofauna and bacterial mat. Hydrothermal sediment and extinct sulfide debris cover 10–15 m of the seafloor surrounding each vent cluster, obscuring the underlying basaltic substrate of light to moderately sedimented pillow, lobate, sheet, and chaotic flows, basalt talus, and collapse terrain. Extinct sulfide chimneys and debris between the clusters indicate that hydrothermal flow was once more widespread and that it has shifted spatially over time. The most prominent structural features in the axial valley at Mothra are regional (020°) trending faults and fissures and north-south trending collapse basins. The location of actively venting clusters within the field is controlled by (1) localization of fluid upflow along the western boundary fault zone, and diversion of these fluids by antithetic faults to feed vent clusters near the western valley wall, and (2) tapping of residual magmatic heat in the central part of the axial valley, which drives flow beneath vent clusters directly adjacent to the collapse basins 70–90 m east of the western valley wall. These processes form the basis for a model of axial valley and hydrothermal system development at Mothra, in which the field is initiated by an eruptive-diking episode and sustained through intense microseismicity and non-eruptive diking events.
On the consistency of earthquake moment release and space geodetic strain rates: Europe

In this paper, approximately 100 VLBI/SLR/GPS velocities map European strain rates from 9.0 × 10−8 yr−1 with regional uncertainties of 20 to 40 per cent. Kostrov’s formula translates these strain-rate values into regional geodetic moment rates M¯˙geodetic . Two other moment rates, M¯˙seismic , extracted from a 100-year historical catalogue and M¯˙plate , taken from plate-tectonic models, contrast the geodetic rates. In Mediterranean Europe, the ratios of M¯˙seismic to M¯˙geodetic are between 0.50 and 0.71. In Turkey the ratio falls to 0.22. Although aseismic deformation may contribute to the earthquake deficit (M¯˙seismic values less than M¯˙geodetic ), the evidence is not compelling because the magnitudes of the observed shortfalls coincide with the random variations expected in a 100-year catalogue. If the lack of aseismic deformation inferred from the 100-year catalogue holds true for longer periods, then much of Europe’s strain budget would have to be accommodated by more frequent or larger earthquakes than have been experienced this century to raise the ratios of M¯˙seismic to M¯˙geodetic to unity. Improved geological fault data bases, longer historical earthquake catalogues, and densification of the continent’s space geodetic network will clarify the roles of aseismic deformation versus statistical quiescence.
Tendon motion and strain patterns evaluated with two-dimensional ultrasound elastography

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of 2D ultrasound elastography to assess tendon tissue motion and strain under axial loading conditions. Four porcine flexor tendons were cyclically loaded to 4% peak strain using a servo hydraulic test system. An ultrasound transducer was positioned to image a longitudinal cross-section of the tendon during loading. Ultrasound radiofrequency (RF) data were collected at 63 frames per second simultaneously with applied force and crosshead displacement. A grid of nodes was manually positioned on an ultrasound image of the unloaded tendon. Small kernels (2 � 1 mm) centered at each node were then cross-correlated with search regions centered at corresponding nodal locations in the subsequent frame. Frame-to-frame nodal displacements were defined as the values that maximized the normalized cross-correlations. This process was repeated across all frames in the loading cycle, providing a measurement of the 2D trajectories of tissue motion throughout the loading cycle. The high resolution displacement measures along the RF beam direction were spatially differentiated to estimate the transverse (relative to tendon fibers) tissue strains. The nodal displacements obtained using this method were very repeatable, with average along-fiber trajectories that were highly correlated (average r¼ 0.99) with the prescribed crosshead displacements. The elastography transverse strains were also repeatable and were consistent with average transverse strains estimated via changes in tendon width. The apparent Poisson’s ratios (0.82–1.64) exceeded the incompressibility limit, but are comparable to values found for tendon in prior experimental and computational studies. The results demonstrate that 2D ultrasound elastography is a promising approach for noninvasively assessing localized tissue motion and strain patterns.
Autopsy Findings After Intracranial Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke. A Clinicopathologic Study of 5 Patients

Background and Purpose— Endovascular thrombectomy is an increasingly used treatment for arterial occlusion in acute stroke. Various devices (including most extensively the Mechanical Embolus Removal in Cerebral Ischemia [MERCI] Retriever device) have been used for this. Methods— We review the neuropathologic findings in 5 patients (age range, 59 to 87 years) who died acutely or as late as 38 days after procedures using the MERCI (4 patients) and Penumbra (1 patient) devices were carried out to remove thromboemboli from the middle cerebral artery. Partial recanalization was achieved by thrombectomy in all 5 patients. Results— All patients showed extensive cerebral infarcts, 3 of 5 with clinical hemorrhagic transformations of the infarct or frank intraparenchymal hemorrhage after thrombectomy; in 1 case, this was judged to be at least partly on the basis of concomitant hypertensive microvascular disease. With 1 exception, basal arteries examined in detail by immunohistochemistry showed prominent, although u...
Elliptical vortices in shallow water

A compact rotating shallow mass of fluid with a free boundary is released on a horizontal plane. Initially it is supposed that horizontal sections through the mass are elliptical, vertical sections are parabolic and the two velocities are linear functions of the horizontal coordinates. Thus four numbers suffice to describe the configuration of the fluid and another four the velocity field. The subsequent motion preserves this simple structure, and so the shallow-water equations reduce to ordinary differential equations in time for the eight parameters required to specify the initial condition.This eighth-order system can be reduced to quadratures using the well-known invariants of the shallow-water equations. There are five such integrals: volume, energy, enstrophy, angular momentum, and a fifth, which lacks a familiar name. The remaining three degrees of freedom can be related to the shape (i.e. eccentricity), horizontal size (i.e. radius of gyration) and orientation of the mass. In general, all of these are periodic functions of time but with different characteristic timescales. Simplest are size changes, which occur at the inertial frequency f. Shape changes are superinertial, while orientation changes may be subinertial or superinertial.This solution is used to discuss the unsteady motion of a non-axisymmetric Gulf Stream ring. We argue that size and shape changes excite internal gravity waves in the underlying fluid, while orientation changes generate Rossby waves. While this wave radiation decreases the energy of the ring, and may alter the angular momentum, it cannot lead to a state of no motion because the volume and enstrophy are unaffected.
In Vitro and In Vivo Investigations of Antimicrobial Treatments to Reduce Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Cattle Manure1

In Exp. 1, acetic acid, aluminum sulfate, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), lactic acid (LAC), or granulated sulfuric acid was applied to autoclaved manure inoculated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 carrying plasmids encoding green-fluorescent protein (1 mL E. coli O157:H7 culture/50 g manure). Treatment with LAC and CPC reduced E. coli O157:H7 by 1.98 and 1.99 log10 cfu/g, respectively. In Exp. 2, LAC or CPC was applied to unautoclaved, inoculated manure incubated at either 5 or 37°C. Regardless of incubation temperature, CPC was most effective at reducing E. coli O157:H7, whereas LAC reduced E. coli O157:H7, but only 48 h after treatment application. In Exp. 3, 90 crossbred heifers were blocked by BW and assigned to 15 separate pens (6 heifers/pen). Within blocks, pens (5 pens/treatment) were allocated randomly to 1) untreated pens; 2) pens treated with 1% CPC; or 3) pens treated with 5% LAC. One day after pen treatment and cattle placement, E. coli O157:H7 was reduced by almost 2.0 log10 most probable number/m2 by treating pens with either CPC or LAC, but E. coli O157:H7 counts were similar 28, 50, and 55 d after initial sanitation (treatment × sampling time, P < 0.01). Interestingly, 14 and 28 d after pen placement, heifers in LAC-treated pens tended to have greater (P ≤ 0.10) ADG than heifers in CPC-treated pens. Thus, results of this series of experiments suggest that sanitizing drylot pens before cattle placement may reduce the potential of animal contamination with E. coli O157:H7.
Horror 2.0 (On Demand): The Digital Convergence of Horror Film Culture

This article examines the horror movie industry’s mobilization of web content and digital distribution outlets, such as video-on-demand (VOD), and how specific fan practices get encoded into busine...
The Second Great Awakening In Connecticut: Critique of the Traditional Interpretation

As a doddering old man in 1850, Lyman Beecher told his children about the religious conditions at Yale College fifty-five years earlier. His words have become familiar to students of American religious history. The school had been “in a most ungodly state” when he entered as a student in 1795, he recalled. Its president, Ezra Stiles, had been ineffective as a pastor. Immorality and religious skepticism had been rife. Then Timothy Dwight replaced Stiles as president, and religion revived. Dwight's students embraced evangelical Christianity and followed him into battle against rationalists who challenged orthodoxy and politicians who wanted to separate church and state. Dwight transformed religious life at the college and, together with his students, rejuvenated the congregational churches of New England.
Tuning Extreme NEXRAD and CMORPH Precipitation Estimates

AbstractHigh-resolution satellite precipitation estimates, such as the Climate Prediction Center morphing technique (CMORPH), provide alternative sources of precipitation data for hydrological applications, especially in regions where adequate ground-based instruments are unavailable. These estimates are, however, subject to large errors, especially at times of heavy precipitation. This paper presents a method to distributionally convert a set of CMORPH estimates into ground-based Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) estimates. As our concern lies with floods and extreme precipitation events, a peaks-over-threshold extreme value approach is adopted that fits a generalized Pareto distribution to the large precipitation estimates. A quantile matching transformation is then used to convert CMORPH values into NEXRAD values. The methods are applied in the analysis of 6 yr of precipitation observations from 625 pixels centered around eastern Oklahoma.
Small-signal analysis of open-loop PWM flyback dc-dc converter for CCM

A flyback dc-dc converter is obtained from the conventional buck-boost converter by replacing the inductor with an isolation transformer. A transformer in the flyback converter is used to achieve a dc isolation between the input and the output of the converter. This paper presents dc and small-signal circuit models for the flyback converter for continuous conduction mode (CCM). The parasitic components are included in these models. The dc model is used to derive the equations for the dc voltage transfer function and the efficiency. The small-signal model is used to derive the equations for the open-loop small-signal transfer functions, such as control-to-output transfer function, input-to-output transfer function, input impedance, and output impedance. Bode plots are also given for the small-signal transfer functions.
Latino Women's Spiritual Beliefs Related to Health:

Abstract Purpose. This study employed qualitative research to describe the relationship between spirituality and overall health among a sample of Latino women. A framework is presented for understanding this complex relationship. Design. Findings are presented from a qualitative analysis of six 1.5-hour focus group sessions. Setting. The research was conducted among Latino women living in Chicago, Illinois, and Northeastern New York communities. We employed a community-based participatory research approach in which community members were active participants throughout the research process. Subjects. Subjects were 47 Latino women 31 to 81 years, all of whom were Christian and the majority (43%) of whom had less than a high school education. Twenty-seven percent reported having high school diplomas, and the same percentage reported at least some college. Of the women who answered the questions, one did not have health insurance, 69% had public health insurance, and 29% had private health insurance. Measures...
The Lyme Disease Spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi Utilizes Multiple Ligands, Including RNA, for Interferon Regulatory Factor 3-Dependent Induction of Type I Interferon-Responsive Genes

We recently discovered a critical role for type I interferon (IFN) in the development of murine Lyme arthritis. Borrelia burgdorferi-mediated induction of IFN-responsive genes by bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) was dependent upon a functional type I IFN receptor but independent of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), TLR4, TLR9, and the adapter molecule MyD88. We now demonstrate that induction of the IFN transcriptional profile in B. burgdorferi-stimulated BMDMs occurs independently of the adapter TRIF and of the cytoplasmic sensor NOD2. In contrast, B. burgdorferi-induced transcription of these genes was dependent upon a rapid STAT1 feedback amplification pathway. IFN profile gene transcription was IRF3 dependent but did not utilize B. burgdorferi-derived DNA or DNase-sensitive ligands. Instead, IFN-responsive gene expression could be induced by B. burgdorferi-derived RNA. Interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3)-dependent IFN profile gene transcription was also induced by sonicated bacteria, by the lipoprotein OspA, and by factors released into the BSKII medium during culture of B. burgdorferi. The IFN-stimulatory activity of B. burgdorferi culture supernatants was not destroyed by nuclease treatment. Nuclease digestion also had no effect on IFN profile induction mediated by sonicated B. burgdorferi. Thus, B. burgdorferi-derived RNA, OspA, and non-nucleic acid ligands present in both sonicated bacteria and B. burgdorferi culture medium contribute to type I IFN-responsive gene induction. These findings suggest that B. burgdorferi invasion of joint tissue and the resultant type I IFN induction associated with Lyme arthritis development may involve multiple triggering ligands.
Estimating Prevalence: A Confidence Game

Abstract: Prevalence is one of the few estimates that rarely are reported with an appropriate measure of error in the parasitological literature. A minimum sample size recommendation of 15 samples, based on the relationship between sample size and standard error, likely has led to a false degree of confidence because of the nonlinear relationship between standard error and “true” 95% confidence intervals (as determined by Monte Carlo simulation or integration of the Bayesian posterior). Given that 95% confidence intervals for proportions are influenced by both sample size and the actual estimate of the proportion, there is no “gold standard” sample size beyond which estimates of binomial proportions can be considered “reliable.” This necessitates the reporting of confidence interval estimates that have been shown to be conservative, such as the Clopper-Pearson estimate, or robust, such as the Wilson score approximation, or the computationally intensive integration of the Bayesian posterior.
Detail synthesis for image-based texturing

Image-based modeling techniques permit the creation of visually interesting geometric models from photographs. But traditional image-based texturing (IBT) techniques often result in extracted textures of poor, uneven quality. This paper introduces a novel technique to improve the quality of image-based textures. We compute a simple and efficient texture quality metric based on the Jacobian of the imaging transform. We identify the correlation between the values of the Jacobian metric and the levels of an image pyramid, allowing us to formulate a novel texture synthesis approach which operates over textures from 3D surfaces in a scene. Our technique allows the creation of uniform, high-resolution textures, relieving the user of the burden of collecting large numbers of images while increasing the visual quality of image-based models. This improved quality is important to create compelling visual experiences in interactive environments.
How does imagery in interactive consumption lead to false memory? A reconstructive memory perspective

Consumers are often exposed to information that may contradict their consumption experience, leading to “false memory” for aspects of the consumption. We develop a theory suggesting why false memory may be heightened due to imagery processing. We subject this theory to a rigorous test in three experiments. We find that post-consumption imagery makes it more difficult to discern between consumption and misleading information thereby boosting false recall. Yet, imagery that is more consumption-based helps reduce consumers' susceptibility to false memory. Consistent with this notion, we explicate the role that attention plays at different stages of consumption in affecting false memory.
Automated image-based phenotypic screening for high-throughput drug discovery

At the state-of-the-art in drug discovery, one of the key challenges is to develop high-throughput screening (HTS) techniques that can measure changes as a continuum of complex phenotypes induced in a target pathogen. Such measurements are crucial in developing therapeutics against diseases like schistosomiasis, trypanosomiasis, and leishmaniasis, which impact millions worldwide. These diseases are caused by parasites that can manifest a variety of phenotypes at any given point in time in response to drugs. Consequently, a single end-point measurement of ‘live or death’ (e.g., ED 50 value) commonly used for lead identification is over-simplistic. In our method to address this problem, the parasites are tracked during the entire course of (video) recorded observations and changes in their appearance-based and behavioral characteristics quantified using geometric, texture-based, color-based, and motion-based descriptors. Subsequently, within the on-line setting, machine learning techniques are used classify the exhibited phenotypes into well defined categories. Important advancements introduced as a consequence of the proposed approach include: (1) ability to assess the interactions between putative drugs and parasites in terms of multiple appearance and behavior-based phenotypes, (2) automatic classification and quantification of pathogen phenotypes. Experimental data from lead identification studies against the disease Schistosomiasis validate the proposed methodology.
Lower extremity injuries in children seated in forward facing child restraint systems.

Objective. The lower extremity is among the most frequently injured body regions for children restrained by forward facing child restraint systems (FFCRS), accounting for 28% of their clinically significant injuries, defined as AIS 2 and greater injuries excluding concussions. Despite the prevalence of these injuries, the current U.S. Motor Vehicle Safety Standard governing FFCRS (FMVSS 213) does not provide a direct assessment of the biomechanical risk of lower extremity fracture nor do the current pediatric test devices provide adequate instrumentation to detect the risk of such injuries. Before improvements can be made to the anthropometric test devices (ATDs) or test procedures to address these limitations, understanding of the sources and mechanisms of these injuries is necessary. Therefore, the objective of this study was to document location, source, and crash circumstances of lower extremity injuries in children seated in FFCRS. Methods. Utilizing two sources of data, PCPS and CIREN, 20 in-depth i...
Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment: Review of Established and Newer Modalities

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk assessment has changed substantially in recent years. Statins are recommended for a larger proportion of Americans based on a recently recommended CVD global risk calculator derived from studies of multiple large, diverse, community-based cohorts. Recent research shows that patients that are intermediate risk for CVD events may benefit from net reclassification of risk based on circulatory biomarkers like c-reactive protein, interleukin-6, lipoprotein(a), and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2. In addition, multiple imaging biomarker modalities, including coronary artery calcium and carotid intima-media thickness, may play an important role in further risk stratification for patients in the later stages of CVD development. The data obtained from these markers could play an important role for deciding how aggressive a physician should be with pharmacological therapy. Here, we discuss many of the current recommendations of CVD risk assessment including those included and excluded from recent guidelines, while addressing the most recent data supporting renewed and newer modalities for CVD risk assessment.
Long-term survival following open versus thoracoscopic lobectomy after preoperative chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer

OBJECTIVES Video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) lobectomy is increasingly accepted for the management of early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but its role for locally advanced cancers has not been as well characterized. We compared outcomes of patients who received induction therapy followed by lobectomy, via VATS or thoracotomy. METHODS Perioperative complications and long-term survival of all patients with NSCLC who received induction chemotherapy (ICT) (with or without induction radiation therapy) followed by lobectomy from 1996-2012 were assessed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard analysis. Propensity score-matched comparisons were used to assess the potential impact of selection bias. RESULTS From 1996 to 2012, 272 patients met inclusion criteria and underwent lobectomy after ICT: 69 (25%) by VATS and 203 (75%) by thoracotomy. An 'intent-to-treat' analysis was performed. Compared with thoracotomy patients, VATS patients had a higher clinical stage, were older, had greater body mass index, and were more likely to have coronary disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Induction radiation was used more commonly in thoracotomy patients [VATS 28% (n = 19) vs open 72% (n = 146), P < 0.001]. Thirty-day mortality was similar between the VATS [3% (n = 2)] and open [4% (n = 8)] groups (P = 0.69). Seven (10%) of the VATS cases were converted to thoracotomy due to difficulty in dissection from fibrotic tissue and adhesions (n = 5) or bleeding (n = 2); none of these conversions led to perioperative deaths. In univariate analysis, VATS patients had improved 3-year survival compared with thoracotomy (61% vs 43%, P = 0.010). In multivariable analysis, the VATS approach showed a trend towards improved survival, but this did not reach statistical significance (hazard ratio, 0.56; 95% confidence interval, 0.32-1.01; P = 0.053). Moreover, a propensity score-matched analysis balancing patient characteristics demonstrated that the VATS approach had similar survival to an open approach (P = 0.56). CONCLUSIONS VATS lobectomy in patients treated with induction therapy for locally advanced NSCLC is feasible and effective and does not appear to compromise oncologic outcomes.
Explained and Unexplained Ischemic Heart Disease Risk after Renal Transplantation

Whether the high incidence of ischemic heart disease (IHD) among renal transplant patients can be attributed to the same risk factors that have been identified in the general population is unclear. The risk for major IHD events occurring >1 yr after transplantation among 1124 transplant recipients was estimated by using the risk calculated from the Framingham Heart Study (FHS). The FHS risk predicted IHD (relative risk, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.20 to 1.40; P: < 0.001); however, the FHS risk tended to underestimate the risk of IHD for renal transplant recipients. This was largely attributable to increased risks associated with diabetes mellitus and, to a lesser extent, age and cigarette smoking for renal transplant recipients. For men, the relative risks for diabetes mellitus were 2.78 (1.73 to 4.49) and 1.53 for the transplant recipient and FHS populations, respectively; the relative risks for age (in years) were 1.06 (1.04 to 1.08) and 1.05, respectively, and those for smoking were 1.95 (1.20 to 3.19) and 1.69, respectively. For women, the relative risks for diabetes mellitus were 5.40 (2.73 to 10.66) and 1.82, respectively. There was a tendency for the risk associated with cholesterol levels to be higher for transplant recipients, compared with the FHS population, but the risks associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and BP appeared to be comparable. Independent of these and other risk factors, the adjusted risk of IHD for the transplant recipient population has decreased. Compared with the era before 1986, transplantation between 1986 and 1992 was associated with a lower relative risk of 0.60 (0.39 to 0.92); transplantation after 1992 was associated with an even lower relative risk of 0.27 (0.11 to 0.63) for IHD. Of concern was the fact that dihydropyridine calcium channel antagonists were associated with an increased risk for IHD (relative risk, 2.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.24 to 4.12; P: = 0. 008), and this association was independent of other antihypertensive agents and risk factors. Therefore, although the FHS risk predicts IHD after renal transplantation, it tends to underestimate the risks, especially the risk associated with diabetes mellitus. The unexpected finding that dihydropyridine calcium channel antagonists were associated with an increased IHD risk merits further evaluation.
Microstructure of the Bid-Ask Spreads of Russian Sovereign Bonds (1996-2000): Spreads as Indicators of Liquidity

In this paper, we investigate components of the bond bid-ask spreads for the emerging market in Russian sovereign bonds in the late 90s. We identify the size of the bid-ask spreads with liquidity because many of trades in illiquid securities happen in closed transactions and accurate information on the price-volume reaction is not available. Following Stoll (2003), we distinguish three components of the bid-ask spread: trade execution cost, inventory maintenance cost and information asymmetry, or adverse selection. We argue, that the information asymmetry, associated with the presence of informed traders, contributes up to 50% into the unpredictable component of the bid-ask spread. The largest changes in informed trading sentiment, which we identified, cluster around September 97 and August 98. We attribute them to the negative reaction of insiders on the handling of Asian financial crisis by the IMF and generally positive reaction to the decision of Russian Government to keep its Eurobonds out of default.