cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Molecular-dynamics calculation of shear-mediated instability in a two-dimensional solid

We have conducted a series of molecular-dynamics simulations on small two-dimensional crystallites and have observed a critical shear-mediated instability. At low reduced shear, the crystallite displays elastic response and recovers when the shear stress is removed. At higher shear stresses the crystallite deforms plastically and will sustain high strain (\ensuremath{\ge}30%) without cleavage. The critical shear stress ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\tau}}}_{\mathit{c}}$ was found to be 0.28\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.03, which is in excellent agreement with a recent prediction (${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\tau}}}_{\mathit{c}}$=0.25) based on an extension of the Kosterlitz-Thouless-Halperin-Nelson-Young theory.
Liver stem cells and prospects for liver reconstitution by transplanted cells

Although it was proposed almost 60 years ago that the adult mammalian liver contains hepatic stem cells, this issue remains controversial. Part of the problem is that no specific marker gene unique to the adult hepatic stem cell has yet been identified, and regeneration of the liver after acute injury is achieved through proliferation of adult hepatocytes and does not require activation or proliferation of stem cells. Also, there are differences in the expected properties of stem versus progenitor cells, and we attempt to use specific criteria to distinguish between these cell types. We review the evidence for each of these cell types in the adult versus embryonic/fetal liver, where tissue-specific stem cells are known to exist and to be involved in organ development. This review is limited to studies directed toward identification of hepatic epithelial stem cells and does not address the controversial issue of whether stem cells derived from the bone marrow have hepatocytic potential, a topic that has been covered extensively in other recent reviews.
Niobium germanium telluride: A new member of the niobium(x)-M-tellurium(2x) family

Abstract During the course of investigating novel low dimensional ternary chalcogenide compounds, we have synthesized Nb3GeTe6, a new member of the layered telluride phases that belongs to the NbxMTe2x family. The crystal structure of Nb3GeTe6 has been determined by single-crystal X-ray analysis. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pnma (#62) with lattice parameters a =6.435(2) A , b =13.915(4) A , c =11.524(2) A , V =1032.0(8) A 3 and Z=4. The final residual index is converged to R=4.7%, Rw =5.9%. The structure consists of layers of mixed Nb Ge sheets capped with tellurium atoms from both sides. Both germanium and niobium exhibit an unusual coordination environment in the layered framework.
Strong Versions of Sperner’s Theorem

Abstract A procedure for partitioning the collection of divisors of an integer into symmetric chains is described and analyzed in detail. As a consequence, several strengthenings of Sperner's theorem are obtained. The algorithm also leads to elementary combinatorial proofs of a number of results on lattice paths and plane partitions.
The preparation of labeled uridine 5′-triphosphate by the action of mono- and diphosphosphouridine kinases from Escherichia coli

Abstract The purification of enzymes from Escherichia coli , strain B, which the catalyze the synthesis of UTP from UMP is described. This enzyme preparation was used to synthesize UTP, labeled with 14 C or 32 P. A simple chemical procedure is given for the preparation of UMP labeled with 32 P. The enzyme fractions described are stable to storage at −20°. They are inactive with respect to the 5′-arabinotide and the 2′- or 3′-ribotide derivatives of uridylic acid.
Computer simulation of surface temperature profiles during CO2 laser irradiation of human enamel

The surface temperature profiles of human enamel blocks following laser irradiation are examined using a mathematical model. A physical model for calculating this surface temperature is developed and then solved by the Laplace transform technique. The enamel block is modeled as a homogeneous cylinder in one dimension with the entire surface exposed to laser beam irradiation. Both the photon absorption/transmission and convective heat loss are taken into consideration in the proposed model. This model allows the surface temperature to be calculated under arbitrary combinations of laser wavelength, pulse pattern, and energy density. Results indicate that (1) surface temperature depends on the wavelength, energy density, and duration of the pulse; (2) high surface temperatures (~ 300°C) can be achieved with associated inside temperature changes of less than 5°C; and (3) the surface temperature depends strongly on the environmental heat transfer coefficients. These results will facilitate the rational development of lasers as potential tools in preventive dentistry.
Pilot study of 5-azacytidine (5-AZA) and carboplatin (CBDCA) in patients with relapsed/refractory leukemia.

5-azacytidine (5-AZA) and carboplatin (CBDCA) are two agents which have demonstrated antileukemic activity in a number of phase I-II trials. Their mechanisms of action and pharmacology related to cell resistance suggested suitability for combination therapy. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of this combination in the treatment of patients with relapsed/refractory acute leukemia. A total of 21 patients was enrolled. 5-azacytidine, at doses ranging from 50–150 mg/m2/day, was administered as a 2-hr infusion for 5 consecutive days. On day 3, patients began a 5-day course of CBDCA given as a 24-hr continuous intravenous infusion of 250 mg/m2/day. There were no complete remissions with this regimen. Although there were three partial responses, these were generally of short duration. Nonhematologic toxicities were mild. No correlation was seen between response and serum platinum levels. These results demonstrate that the 5-AZA/CBDCA combination is ineffective therapy for heavily pretreated patients with acute leukemia. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Antianxiety agents and emotional behavior: An information processing analysis

Abstract 1. 1. Various paradigms which are considered to produce and measure fear, anxiety, frustration and aggression in non-human animals are briefly reviewed. 2. 2. The efficacy of antianxiety drugs in these paradigms is discussed. It is clear that the tasks investigators have devised to measure emotion may be measuring several effects of antianxiety drugs. 3. 3. An information processing model is proposed therefore, to bring about a clearer understanding of the effects of antianxiety agents on human and non-human animals. 4. 4. Among the five stages of information processing considered, the stimulus selection, response selection and response inhibition stages are considered important to understanding antianxiety drug effects.
STRESS IMAGING IN A MAN WITH HYPERTROPHIC CARDIOMYOPATHY AND ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION

The management of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) remains controversial, since phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors can theoretically increase left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) pressure gradient (PG), yet this increase may not be detected at rest. An
Near-Field Scanning Optical Tomography

We present the theoretical foundation for near-field scanning optical tomography. We analyze the forward problem for various experimental modalities and derive unique solution to the inverse problem. This work enables 3D imaging with subwavelength resolution.
Efficient enumeration of the vertices of polyhedra associated with network LP's

Algorithms are given to list the vertices of polyhedra associated with network linear programs and their duals. Each algorithm has running time which is quadratic in the number of vertices of the polyhedron, and does not require that the polyhedron be either bounded or simple. The algorithms use characterizations of adjacent vertices in network and dual network LP's to perform an efficient traversal of the edge graph of the polyhedron. This contrasts with algorithms for enumerating the vertices of a general polyhedron, all of which have worst-case complexity which is exponential in the number of vertices of the polyhedron.
Simultaneous Production of Nisin and Lactic Acid from Cheese Whey

A biorefinery process that utilizes cheese whey as substrate to simultaneously produce nisin, a natural food preservative, and lactic acid, a raw material for biopolymer production, was studied. The conditions for nisin biosynthesis and lactic acid coproduction by Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis (ATCC 11454) in a whey-based medium were optimized using statistically based experimental designs. A Plackett-Burman design was applied to screen seven parameters for significant factors for the production of nisin and lactic acid. Nutrient supplements, including yeast extract, MgSO4, and KH2PO4, were found to be the significant factors affecting nisin and lactic acid formation. As a follow-up, a central-composite design was applied to optimize these factors. Second-order polynomial models were developed to quantify the relationship between nisin and lactic acid production and the variables. The optimal values of these variables were also determined. Finally, a verification experiment was performed to confirm the optimal values that were predicted by the models. The experimented results agreed well with the model prediction, giving a similar production of 19.3 g/L of lactic acid and 92.9 mg/L of nisin.
Solar observations with a soft x-ray spectrometer

Abstract A grazing incidence soft X-ray spectrometer designed for long-term operation in a satellite has been used for preliminary observation of the solar soft X-ray spectrum during an Aerobee rocket flight. The instrument employs a lightly ruled concave glass grating having a radius of curvature of one meter as the dispersing element. The resultant spectrum is scanned with a Bendix open window photomultiplier mounted behind the exit slit on a carriage which moves the assembly along the Rowland circle from 10 A-400 A. Wavelength calibration is obtained through observation of the carbon K emission band in the laboratory together with observation during flight of the He II Ly man-α line. A study of the reflecting power of the grating has been made which, together with an investigation of the efficiency of the detector now being planned, will provide an estimate of the instrumental efficiency at one or more wavelengths. Observations during a recent rocket flight indicate the presence of numerous emission lines in the wavelength region from 120 A-400 A. Tentative identification of lines produced by highly ionized atoms has been made.
Effects of distinct classes of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists on seizures, axonal sprouting and neuronal loss in vitro: suppression by NR2B-selective antagonists.

Chronic treatment with high-affinity, competitive N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonists can promote axonal sprouting, induce neuronal loss and exacerbate seizures associated with temporal lobe epilepsy. Whether moderate-affinity uncompetitive and NR2B subunit-selective NMDAR antagonists elicit similar responses remains largely unexplored. We directly compared the effects of distinct classes of NMDAR antagonists on electrographic seizures, axonal sprouting and neuronal survival using electrophysiological recordings and histology in hippocampal slice cultures treated chronically with vehicle, D-APV (high-affinity competitive), Ro 25-6981 or ifenprodil (NR2B-selective), or memantine (moderate-affinity uncompetitive). Granule cell layer field potential recordings revealed multiple spontaneous electrographic seizures in vehicle-treated cultures following GABAA receptor blockade. Compared to vehicle, seizures were dramatically reduced in cultures treated with NR2B selective antagonists and slightly increased in cultures treated with moderate-affinity uncompetitive or high-affinity competitive antagonists. In general, compared to vehicle, cultures treated with NR2B selective antagonists exhibited less sprouting of granule cell mossy fiber axons (MFS) and more granule cell layer neurons. Cultures treated with high-affinity competitive or moderate-affinity uncompetitive NMDAR antagonists showed increased MFS and fewer granule cell layer neurons. These data reveal differential effects of distinct classes of NMDAR antagonists on seizure expression, axonal sprouting and neuronal survival and suggest an association between these responses.
Hemoptysis during sexual intercourse. Unusual manifestation of coronary artery disease.

Sexual activity increases physiologic demands on the cardiovascular system. A patient with stable angina pectoris experienced recurrent bouts of hemoptysis caused by left ventricular failure that occurred only during sexual activity. Severe atherosclerothic coronary vascular disease was confirmed by cardiac catheterization. The patient underwent successful coronary artery bypass grafting; nine months after surgery, he is sexually active and symptom-free.
A Doppler filter technique to measure the hydrogen content of planetary surfaces

Abstract A new technique to measure the hydrogen content of planetary surfaces is suggested. It relies on the Doppler energy shift of planetary albedo neutrons in the frame of a planar neutron sensor aboard a low-altitude orbiting spacecraft. It can be realized by a small modification to the current design of the anticoincidence shield enclosing a possible Mars Observer gamma-ray spectrometer. The resultant sensitivity to hydrogen near the surface of the Moon is estimated to be nearly three orders of magnitude greater than the sensitivity inherent in the detection of 2.223 MeV neutron capture γ-rays by the spectrometer.
Resistance to amphotericin B: emerging clinical and microbiological patterns.

Abstract There has been an increasing number of reports of clinically significant amphotericin B (AmB) resistance in fungal pathogens, including Candida albicans . Concommitantly, advances in antifungal susceptibility testing have led to an improved correlation between microbiologic and clinical failure. Reports of AmB resistance, correlation of results and in vitro/in vivo correlations, mechanisms of resistance, and the transmission of resistant isolates within confined environments are reviewed. Recommendations are given regarding the clinical settings in which AmB susceptibility testing should be considered.
Reactor Pressure Vessel Modification Approaches

Stress corrosion cracking of Alloy 600 has lead to the modification and replacement of many nuclear power plant components. Among these components are the Bottom Mounted Nozzles (BMN) of the Reactor Pressure Vessel (RPV). Modifications of these components have been performed on an emergent basis. Since that time, Framatome ANP has developed state-of-the-art modification methods for the repair of BMNs using the Electrical Power Research Institute (EPRI) managed Materials Reliability Program (MRP) attributes for an ideal repair as a basis for evaluation of modification concepts. These attributes were used to evaluate the optimal modification concepts and develop processes and tooling to support future modification activity. This paper details the BMN configurations, modification evaluation criteria, several modification concepts, and the development of the tooling to support the optimal modification scenarios.Copyright © 2005 by Framatome ANP
A Comparison of Bundling and Sequential Pricing in Competitive Markets: Experimental Evidence

Abstract Technological advances enable sellers to identify relationships among offered goods. Sellers can leverage this information through pricing strategies such as bundling and sequential pricing. While these strategies have primarily been studied under monopoly assumptions, the strategies are available to competitive firms as well. This paper reports on a series of laboratory experiments comparing bundling and sequential pricing while varying the underlying relationship between the goods in markets where a fraction of buyers comparison shop. The results indicate that sequential pricing is generally as profitable to the seller; however, there is evidence that sequential pricing may be more harmful to consumers than bundling when the goods have complementary values or the buyer’s values are positively correlated.
Effect of size and site on the outcome of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy of proximal urinary stones in children

Abstract Objective To determine the effect of location and size of stones on the outcome of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) in children. Patients and methods In 2008–2010, 150 children (median age 6.6 years) with radio-opaque ureteric and renal stones measuring ≤4 cm were treated. Exclusion criteria were coagulation disorders, pyelonephritis, distal obstruction, non-functioning kidney and hypertension. ESWL was performed under general anesthesia. Follow up period was 5–22 months. Results 186 stones were treated: 76 calyceal, 92 pelvic and 18 proximal ureteral. Mean stone size was 1.3 cm. A total of 312 sessions were performed (mean per stone = 1.67 sessions). The mean number of shock waves per session was 2423.68. Overall stone-free rate was 89.24%. Having a calyceal location did not significantly affect the stone-free rate ( p = 0.133). The failure rate was significantly higher (66.7%) in stones >3 cm in size ( p Conclusion ESWL is a safe and effective method for treatment of stones up to 2 cm in children. Rate of auxillary procedures increases in stones >2 cm in size. About 80% of failures were associated with stone size >1.35 cm while 52.3% of completely cleared stones were associated with size
Functioning of Alcohol Use Disorders Criteria Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults: Implications for DSM-5

This study explored dimensionality and rank-order severity of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fourth edition (DSM-IV) alcohol use disorder (AUD) criteria among adults 50+ years old. Secondary analysis was performed on data from individuals 50+ (N = 3,412) from the 2009 National Survey of Drug Use and Health. Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) and item response theory (IRT) analyses were performed on the 11 AUD criteria. DSM-IV and DSM fifth edition (DSM-5) classifications were compared. CFA revealed a one-factor model. IRT analyses revealed that AUD criteria identify only severe cases of AUD. Overall, 5.8% met criteria for a DSM-IV AUD; 7.5% met criteria for DSM-5 AUD.
SU-FF-T-281: Accuracy of a Commercial Macro Monte Carlo Dose Calculation Algorithm for Determination of In-Water Output Factors of Clinical Electron Field Shapes

Purpose: To evaluate the accuracy of a commercial implementation of the macro Monte Carlo method for determination of in‐water output factors of clinical electron field shapes. Method and Materials: At our institution, we calculate electron monitor unit settings by measuring the output relative to the calibration condition. For each measurement, the measurement conditions (machine, energy, SSD, and applicator size), the field outline, and the output factor are recorded and maintained in a library. We obtained the output factors for 190 field shapes from our library for three dosimetrically equivalent linear accelerators. Because there were relatively few fields at the largest applicator size and at the two highest energies, 15 and 18 MeV, we selected and measured additional field shapes for each energy/applicator combination that had fewer than four field shapes, resulting in a total of 218 field shapes. Output factors were calculated by digitizing the field shapes into the treatment planning system and calculating the dose at the measurement point using a synthetic CT data set of a flat water phantom. The algorithm parameters were maximum calculation accuracy (1%), calculation grid size such that there were approximately 10 calculation points in the distal falloff of the central axis depth dose, and for no smoothing of the dose distribution. Output factors were remeasured for field shapes for which the disagreement was larger than 2%. Results: The mean difference between the calculation and measurement was −0.2%, and the standard deviation of the difference distribution was 1.1%. Of the 218 measurements, 124 (56.9%), 211 (96.8%), and 215 (98.6%) were within 1%, 2%, and 3%, respectively. The largest difference was 3.4%. Conclusion: Our evaluation demonstrated that the algorithm performs well for determination of in‐water output factors for clinical field shapes. The majority of calculated output factors were within 2% of measurement.
The spread-backwash concept

Gaile G. L. (1980) The spread-backwash concept, Reg. Studies 14, 15–25. This paper reviews the spread-backwash concept from its classical antecedents through contemporary work. The contemporary works are analyzed for their theoretical and methodological approaches and according to a selection of attributes. A synoptic analysis of the concept argues that the role of diffusion in the concept has been overstated and that the spread-backwash dichotomy has led to confusion. It is argued that spread-backwash processes are non-dichotomous, but that this set of processes leads to differential spatial development impacts. The concept is restated.
The Role of Individual SH2 Domains in Mediating Association of Phospholipase C-γ1 with the Activated EGF Receptor

The two SH2 (Src homology domain 2) domains present in phospholipase C-γ1 (PLC-γ1) were assayed for their capacities to recognize the five autophosphorylation sites in the epidermal growth factor receptor. Plasmon resonance and immunological techniques were employed to measure interactions between SH2 fusion proteins and phosphotyrosine-containing peptides. The N-SH2 domain recognized peptides in the order of pY1173 > pY992 > pY1068 > pY1148 ≫ pY1086, while the C-SH2 domain recognized peptides in the order of pY992 > pY1068 > pY1148 ≫ pY1086 and pY1173. The major autophosphorylation site, pY1173, was recognized only by the N-SH2 domain. Contributions of the N-SH2 and C-SH2 domains to the association of the intact PLC-γ1 molecule with the activated epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor were assessed in vivo. Loss of function mutants of each SH2 domain were produced in a full-length epitope-tagged PLC-γ1. After expression of the mutants, cells were treated with EGF and association of exogenous PLC-γ1 with EGF receptors was measured. In this context the N-SH2 is the primary contributor to PLC-γ1 association with the EGF receptor. The combined results suggest an association mechanism involving the N-SH2 domain and the pY1173 autophosphorylation site as a primary event and the C-SH2 domain and the pY992 autophosphorylation site as a secondary event.
Three-dimensional dynamic thermal imaging of structural flaws by dual-band infrared computed tomography

We discuss three-dimensional dynamic thermal imaging of structural flaws using dual-band infrared (DBIR) computed tomography. Conventional (single-band) thermal imaging is difficult to interpret. It yields imprecise or qualitative information (e.g., when subsurface flaws produce weak heat flow anomalies masked by surface clutter). We use the DBIR imaging technique to clarify interpretation. We capture the time history of surface temperature difference patterns at the epoxy-glue disbond site of a flash-heated lap joint. This type of flawed structure played a significant role in causing damage to the Aloha Aircraft fuselage on the aged Boeing 737 jetliner. The magnitude of surface-temperature differences versus time for 0.1 mm air layer compared to 0.1 mm glue layer, varies from 0.2 to 1.6 degree(s)C, for simultaneously scanned front and back surfaces. The scans are taken every 42 ms from 0 to 8 s after the heat flash. By ratioing 3 - 5 micrometers and 8 - 12 micrometers DBIR images, we located surface temperature patterns from weak heat flow anomalies at the disbond site and remove the emissivity mask from surface paint of roughness variations. Measurements compare well with calculations based on TOPAX3D, a three-dimensional, finite element computer model. We combine infrared, ultrasound and x-ray imaging methods to study heat transfer, bond quality and material differences associated with the lap joint disbond site.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Expression and Purification of Large Nebulin Fragments and Their Interaction with Actin

Abstract cDNA clones encoding mouse skeletal muscle nebulin were expressed in Escherichia coli as thioredoxin fusion proteins and purified in the presence of 6M urea. These fragments, called 7a and 8c, contain 28 and 19 of the weakly repeating ∼35-residue nebulin modules, respectively. The nebulin fragments are soluble at extremely high pH, but aggregate when dialyzed to neutral pH, as assayed by centrifugation at 16,000× g . However, when mixed with varying amounts of G-actin at pH 12 and then dialyzed to neutral pH, the nebulin fragments are solubilized in a concentration-dependent manner, remaining in the supernatant along with the monomeric actin. These results show that interaction with G-actin allows the separation of insoluble nebulin aggregates from soluble actin-nebulin complexes by centrifugation. We used this property to assay the incorporation of nebulin fragments into preformed actin filaments. Varying amounts of aggregated nebulin were mixed with a constant amount of F-actin at pH 7.0. The nebulin aggregates were pelleted by centrifugation at 5200× g , whereas the actin filaments, including incorporated nebulin fragments, remained in the supernatant. Using this assay, we found that nebulin fragments 7a and 8c bound to actin filaments with high affinity. Immunofluorescence and electron microscopy of the actin-nebulin complexes verified that the nebulin fragments were reorganized from punctate aggregates to a filamentous form upon interaction with F-actin. In addition, we found that fragment 7a binds to F-actin with a stoichiometry of one nebulin module per actin monomer, the same stoichiometry we found in vivo. In contrast, 8c binds to F-actin with a stoichiometry of one module per two actin monomers. These data indicate that 7a can be incorporated into actin filaments to the same extent found in vivo, and suggest that shorter fragments may not bind actin filaments in the same way as the native nebulin molecule.
4',5,6,7-OXYGENATED FLAVONES AND FLAVANONES.

The preparation of 4′-hydroxy-5,6,7-trimethoxyflavanone, 6-hydroxy-4′,5,7-trimethoxyflavanone, and the corresponding flavones is described as well as a new synthesis of 4′,6-dihydroxy-5,7-dimethoxyflavone. The results of the biological tests of these and other closely related bioflavonoids in our general endocrine screening assay are tabulated.
A device for studying the psychophysiologic effects of thermal stimulation of the human esophagus.

A thermoelectric device is described that has the capability of reliably producing interoceptive temperature increments that are precise and localzed. For thermal stimulation of the esophagus, it has advantages over the conventional water-filled balloon of precluding unauthorized movement. distension, and temperature cues.
Muscle activation profiles about the knee during Tai-Chi stepping movement compared to the normal gait step.

The purpose of this study was to investigate knee muscle activity patterns in experienced Tai-Chi (TC) practitioners during normal walking and TC stepping. The electromyographic (EMG) activity of vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM), bicep femoris (BF), and gastrocnemius (GS) muscles of 11 subjects (five females and six males) during the stance phase of normal walking was compared to stance phase of a TC step. Knee joint motion was also monitored by using an Optotrakmotion analysis system. Raw EMG was processed by root-mean-square (RMS) technique using a time constant of 50 ms, and normalized to maximum of voluntary contraction for each muscle, referred to as normalized RMS (nRMS). Peak nRMS and co-contraction (quantified by co-contraction index) during stance phase of a gait cycle and a TC step were calculated. Paired t-tests were used to compare the difference for each muscle group peak and cocontraction pair between the tasks. The results showed that only peak values of nRMS in quadriceps and co-contraction were significantly greater in TC stepping compared to normal walking (Peak values of nRMS for VL were 26.93% for normal walking and 52.14% for TC step, p = 0.001; VM are 29.12% for normal walking and 51.93% for TC stepping, p = 0.028). Mean co-contraction index for VL–BF muscle pairs was 13.24 ± 11.02% during TC stepping and 9.47 ± 7.77% in stance phase of normal walking (p = 0.023). There was no significant difference in peak values of nRMS in the other two muscles during TC stepping compared to normal walking. Preliminary EMG profiles in this study demonstrated that experienced TC practitioners used relatively higher levels of knee muscle activation patterns with greater co-contraction during TC exercise compared to normal walking. 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Automatic handwriting recognition and writer matching on anthrax-related handwritten mail

A handwriting recognition technique and a handwriting identification technique were combined and applied on anthrax-related handwritten mail. The HWAI (handwritten address interpretation) system interprets the address on the anthrax-related letters. The HWAI process can be modified to provide specific alphabet images which can then be used for writer identification. Micro-level feature values from segmented characters were extracted and an identification test was conducted. Preliminary results based on automatic handwriting recognition and identification are shown.
Placing Election Bylaws on the Corporate Ballot

This piece provides our amicus curiae brief in the case of American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees Pension Plan v. American International Group, which is now under consideration by the Second Circuit Court of Appeals. In this case, a shareholder submitted a proposal to amend the company's bylaws to require the company in certain circumstances to place candidates nominated by shareholders on the company's ballot, and the company sought to exclude this proposal from the ballot. We suggest in our amicus curiae brief that companies should not be allowed to exclude form the company ballot bylaw amendments concerning corporate elections. Prohibiting companies from doing so, we argue, is required by a reasonable interpretation of the proxy rules and necessary to advance the policy goals underlying the rules. As an appendix to the brief we attach a letter to the SEC sent by forty-eight law professors including ourselves that expresses a similar position.
Liposome-mediated modulation of multidrug resistance in human HL-60 leukemia cells.

Background Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major obstacle in cancer treatment. Resistance of cultured tumor cells to major classes of cytotoxic drugs is frequently due to expression of a plasma membrane P-glycoprotein encoded by MDR genes. We have demonstrated that liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin is more toxic than the free drug and that it modulates MDR in Chinese hamster LZ cells and human colon cancer cells. Purpose To investigate further the association between expression of P-glycoprotein and modulation of MDR by liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin, we studied vincristine-resistant HL-60/VCR leukemia cells, which express P-glycoprotein, and doxorubicin-resistant HL-60/ADR leukemia cells, which do not. Methods Cells were exposed to various concentrations of free doxorubicin and liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin. The cellular content of doxorubicin was determined by fluorescence analysis, and cytotoxicity was determined by cell growth inhibition. Photoaffinity-labeling studies of P-glycoprotein binding were performed on HL-60/VCR and HL-60/ADR cells and KB-GSV2 cells transfected with the MDR1 gene (also known as PGY1). Results The concentrations that caused 50% inhibition of growth (IC50) for free doxorubicin in HL-60, HL-60/ADR, and HL-60/VCR cells were 30 nM, 9 microM, and 0.9 microM, respectively. The values for liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin in parental HL-60 cells and HL-60/ADR cells were 20 nM and 9 microM, respectively, indicating little or no sensitization. In contrast, HL-60/VCR cells were fivefold more sensitive to liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin than to free doxorubicin, and IC50 was reduced to 0.17 microM. In HL-60 cells exposed to liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin, intracellular doxorubicin accumulation was less than that seen with free drug. In contrast, in HL-60/VCR cells, accumulation was twofold to threefold higher than that with free doxorubicin. Liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin completely inhibited the photoaffinity labeling of P-glycoprotein by azidopine in membrane vesicles of HL-60/VCR cells, with a potency comparable to that of azidopine, suggesting that circumvention of MDR by liposomes is related to their specific interaction with P-glycoprotein. The studies with KB-GSV2 cells indicated that blank liposomes can directly inhibit photoaffinity labeling of P-glycoprotein. Conclusions These results demonstrate the effectiveness of liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin in overcoming resistance in the multidrug-resistant phenotype of HL-60/VCR cells by direct interaction with P-glycoprotein. Furthermore, they indicate that liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin may be an effective treatment for human cancers.
Making sense of G-quadruplex and i-motif functions in oncogene promoters

The presence and biological importance of DNA secondary structures in eukaryotic promoters are becoming increasingly recognized among chemists and biologists as bioinformatics in vitro and in vivo evidence for these structures in the c-Myc, c-Kit, KRAS, PDGF-A, hTERT, Rb, RET and Hif-1α promoters accumulates. Nevertheless, the evidence remains largely circumstantial. This minireview differs from previous ones in that here we examine the diversity of G-quadruplex and i-motif structures in promoter elements and attempt to categorize the different types of arrangements in which they are found. For the c-Myc G-quadruplex and Bcl-2 i-motif, we summarize recent biological and structural studies.
The impact of publicly funded basic research: an integrative extension of Martin and Salter

This paper provides an integrative literature review of the research on the impact of the public funding of basic research, extending previous work done at the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU), University of Sussex, East Sussex, UK. "Impact" is measured in terms of publications, patents, new drugs, employment, and new start-up companies. The primary focus of this paper is on empirical studies of the impact of biomedical research. However, a few key theoretical papers and empirical papers with a broader industrial focus are also reviewed to provide a more complete perspective. Conclusions, including an alternative view that basic research need not be public supported, and future research opportunities in this area are also discussed.
Telomerase deficiency does not alter bleomycin-induced fibrosis in mice

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is characterized by interstitial lung infiltrates, dyspnea, and progressive respiratory failure. Reports linking telomerase mutations to familial interstitial pneumonia (FIP) suggest that telomerase activity and telomere length maintenance are important in disease pathogenesis. To investigate the role of telomerase in lung fibrotic remodeling, intratracheal bleomycin was administered to mice deficient in telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) or telomerase RNA component (TERC) and to wild-type controls. TERT-deficient and TERC-deficient mice were interbred to the F6 and F4 generation, respectively, when they developed skin manifestations and infertility. Fibrosis was scored using a semiquantitative scale and total lung collagen was measured using a hydroxyprolinemicroplate assay. Telomere lengths were measured in peripheral blood leukocytes and isolated type II alveolar epithelial cells (AECs). Telomerase activity in type II AECs was measured using a realtime polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based system. Following bleomycin, TERT-deficient and TERC-deficient mice developed an equivalent inflammatory response and similar lung fibrosis (by scoring of lung sections and total lung collagen content) compared to controls, a pattern seen in both early (F1) and later (F6 TERT and F4 TERC) generations. Telomere lengths were reduced in peripheral blood leukocytes and isolated type II AECs from F6 TERT-deficient and F4 TERC-deficient mice compared to controls. Telomerase deficiency in a murine model leads to telomere shortening, but does not predispose to enhanced bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Additional genetic or environmental factors may be necessary for development of fibrosis in the presence of telomerase deficiency.
Cascaded-optical parametric amplification for extreme contrast enhancement

We demonstrate for the first time a straightforward technique for complete prepulse elimination in chirped pulse amplification systems, using two cascaded optical parametric amplifiers.
Comparison of rapid intrapartum screening methods for group B streptococcal vaginal colonization.

Objective. To compare optical immunoassay (OIA) and rapid polymerase-chain reaction (PCR) with enrichment broth culture for intrapartum detection of vaginal group B streptococcal (GBS) colonization.Methods. Paired vaginal swabs from 315 consecutive term pregnant women at the time of presentation for delivery to a university medical center were tested for GBS by OIA, PCR, and culture. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated.Results. Vaginal colonization was identified by culture in 56 subjects (17.8%). The sensitivity of OIA (7.1%, 95% confidence interval 5.1–9.5%) was significantly less than that of unenhanced rapid PCR (62.5%, 95% CI 48.5–74.8%).Conclusions. Neither PCR nor OIA is sufficiently sensitive for intrapartum detection of vaginal GBS colonization. Rapid PCR is more sensitive, but further improvements in technique to increase sensitivity will be necessary if PCR is to have a useful role in the management of women at time of presentation for delivery.
Effect of “Ionized” Wrist Bracelets on Musculoskeletal Pain: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

• Objective: To assess objectively the perceived benefits of wearing an “ionized” wrist bracelet to treat muscle or joint pain. • Subjects and Methods: This study was performed at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla, in 2000 and 2001. In a randomized, double-blind design, 305 participants wore an ionized bracelet and 305 wore a placebo bracelet for 4 weeks. For each location where pain was present at baseline, participants rated the intensity of pain. Followup ratings were made after 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of wearing the bracelet. Two primary end points were defined for evaluating efficacy. The first was the change at 4week follow-up (day 28) in the pain score at the location with the highest baseline value (maximum pain score). The second was the change at 4-week follow-up in the sum of the pain scores for all locations. • Results: Analysis of the data showed significant improvement in pain scores in both groups, but no differences were observed between the group wearing the placebo bracelet and the group wearing the ionized bracelet. • Conclusion: The finding that subjective improvement in pain scores was equivalent with ionized and placebo bracelet use questions the benefit of using an ionized bracelet. New treatments in alternative medical therapy must be shown to be effective through vigorous, unbiased, objective testing before physicians acknowledge potential benefits or recommend these treatments to patients. Mayo Clin Proc. 2002;77:1164-1168
Measuring HDL-based design productivity: an experimental comparison

Two process models for top-down HDL-based design are developed in order to measure HDL-based design productivity. A sorting algorithm is used as a benchmark to experience various design activities in HDL entry and mixed entry design process models. We measure the effort (time) required for each design activity and analyze the "effort-distribution" over various design activities. We also discuss the resources that are essential to perform each design activity. These experiments the applicability of "effort-distribution analysis" to enhance design productivity in real life design projects.
Learning a highly resolved tree of phenotypes using genomic data clustering

A highly resolved tree of phenotypes (TOP) derived from genomic data reveals important relationships between heterogeneous diseases at molecular level. We propose a stability analysis guided learning method that produces a reproducible yet non-binary TOP using high-dimensional finite sample size genomic data. Experimental results show the superior capability of the proposed method in learning TOP with balanced stability and descriptiveness, as compared to conventional tree learning schemes.
The Journalists in the Trois Glorieuses

The next morning, July 26, the Moniteur appeared a bit later than usual. It contained the final decrees of the last King of France and Navarre. The “Report to the King”, signed by the ministers, served as a preface. The edicts called for the dissolution of the new Chamber, which was not yet in session; the suppression of the freedom of the periodical press; a radical alteration of the electoral law in behalf of rural landowners; and the appointment of several Ultras to secondary positions and prefectures in the administration.
Increases in parental investment and child health as a result of an early intervention

Parental investment (involving time or money invested in 3-year-olds) and child health were assessed as an outcome of (a) children's risk status (preterm vs. full-term birth) and (b) maternal resources (defined here in terms of their problem-solving skills in resolving caregiving challenges). Resources were varied systematically as a function of maternal participation in a traditional home visitation program versus a novel cognitively enhanced program that facilitated parenting skills more successfully. As predicted, mothers in the traditional home visitation condition invested preferentially in low-risk children, whereas mothers in the cognitively enhanced condition invested preferentially in high-risk children (who, in turn, showed maximal health benefits). Maternal investment of time in care provision mediated the relationship between predictor variables and children's health. This pattern supports an evolutionary model of parental investment in which parents show discriminative solicitude based on the reproductive potential of the child and parents' access to relevant resources.
Piecewise-uniform bends in rectangular waveguide

A new configuration of improved rectangular-waveguide bend for advanced millimeter-wave applications is presented. It consists of few lengths of constant-curvature bends, properly designed in order to obtain enhanced matching conditions, without matching elements. Comparisons between the proposed bends and the uniform ones are reported, showing that the formers exhibit a better return loss. Measurements on a Ka-band prototype, in its operative condition, and a worst-case analysis on a W-band design, confirm the high electrical performances also in presence of significant manufacturing uncertainties.
Fault tolerant control for unknown nonlinear systems with actuator failures: An adaptive fuzzy approach

In this paper, an adaptive fuzzy approach is proposed to deal with output regulation of unknown nonlinear systems with actuator failures. The actuator failures under consideration can be lock-in-place or/and loss of effectiveness. Based on fuzzy logic systems (FLS) equipped with adaptive algorithms to approximate the nonlinear system functions and the occurred failures together, a fault tolerant control law is developed to achieve asymptotic output regulation and closed-loop stability, despite the system and actuator faults are all unknown. A numerical simulation study illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed control approach.
PBL and Beyond: Trends in Collaborative Learning

Building upon the disruption to lecture-based methods triggered by the introduction of problem-based learning, approaches to promote collaborative learning are becoming increasingly diverse, widespread and generally well accepted within medical education. Examples of relatively new, structured collaborative learning methods include team-based learning and just-in-time teaching. Examples of less structured approaches include think-pair share, case discussions, and the flipped classroom. It is now common practice in medical education to employ a range of instructional approaches to support collaborative learning. We believe that the adoption of such approaches is entering a new and challenging era. We define collaborate learning by drawing on the broader literature, including Chi's ICAP framework that emphasizes the importance of sustained, interactive explanation and elaboration by learners. We distinguish collaborate learning from constructive, active, and passive learning and provide preliminary evidence documenting the growth of methods that support collaborative learning. We argue that the rate of adoption of collaborative learning methods will accelerate due to a growing emphasis on the development of team competencies and the increasing availability of digital media. At the same time, the adoption collaborative learning strategies face persistent challenges, stemming from an overdependence on comparative-effectiveness research and a lack of useful guidelines about how best to adapt collaborative learning methods to given learning contexts. The medical education community has struggled to consistently demonstrate superior outcomes when using collaborative learning methods and strategies. Despite this, support for their use will continue to expand. To select approaches with the greatest utility, instructors must carefully align conditions of the learning context with the learning approaches under consideration. Further, it is critical that modifications are made with caution and that instructors verify that modifications do not impede the desired cognitive activities needed to support meaningful collaborative learning.