cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Purification and some properties of human DNA-O6-methylguanine methyltransferase

DNA-O 6 -methylguanine methyltransferase was purified from the nuclear fraction of fresh human placenta using ammonium sulphate precipitation, gel filtration, affinity chromatography on DNA-cellulose and hydroxyapatite. The methyltransferase preparation was approximately 1-2% pure based on specific activity, and was free of nucleic acids. The protein reacts stoichiometrically with O 6 -methylguanine in DNA with apparent second-order kinetics. The human methyltransferase has a pH optimum of about 8·5, similar to that of the corresponding rat and mouse proteins. NaCl inhibits the reaction in a concentration-dependent fashion. The human protein, like the rodent and E. coli methyltransferases, needs no cofactor. While lmM MnCl2, lmM spermidine, 5mM MgCl2 and 10 mM EDTA individually do not significantly inhibit the initial rate of reaction, the protein is nearly completely inactive in 5 mM A1C13 or FeCl2 or 10 mM spermidine. The initial rate of reaction increases as a function of temperature at least up to 42°. The reaction is inhibited by DNA in a concentration-dependent manner, with single- stranded DNA being more inhibitory than duplex DNA.
An estrogen receptor genetic polymorphism and a history of spontaneous abortion--correlation in women with estrogen receptor positive breast cancer but not in women with estrogen receptor negative breast cancer or in women without cancer.

We previously identified a polymorphism in the human estrogen receptor gene. In a preliminary study on women with estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast tumors, we found that the presence of the rarer of the two alleles, the B' allele, is correlated with a history of spontaneous abortion. Because that study evaluated only women with estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer, it was unknown whether the observed correlation was restricted to the cancer group or was independent of breast cancer. We have now extended our analysis to include not only additional women with ER+ breast cancer, but also those with estrogen receptor negative (ER−) breast cancer and women without cancer. Results of the current study continue to show an association between the B' allele and a history of spontaneous abortion in the ER+ breast cancer group. There was no such correlation either in the ER− breast cancer group or in the group without cancer. Also, we continue to observe, in the ER+ breast cancer group, a significantly higher concentration of ER protein in tumors from homozygous wild type women (genotype BB), than in the tumors from women who are heterozygous for the rarer allele (genotype BB'). We conclude that the combination of spontaneous abortion and the BB' ER genotype may be a marker for breast cancer susceptibility.
Challenges of aeronautical data networks

With the advances of robust and high-speed wireless connectivity a new paradigm called “Aeronautical Networks” is beginning to take shape globally. 12Programs lead by National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), EUROCONTROL and Networking the Sky for Civil Aeronautical Communications (NEWSKY) are all including the aeronautical platform as part of the network. The objective is to provide a low delay and cost effective data network to an aeronautical platform. Most of current systems use a satellite for connecting a aeronautical platform. Satellite resources are limited, expensive and offer limited data throughput as compared to a terrestrial networks. In this paper current and future prospects of such a data network are discussed in terms of cross interoperability with a terrestrial backbone. The result of a notional network capacity analysis is presented. Channel model specific to an aeronautical platform for a wideband system is discussed. Connectivity and robustness of an Aeronautical based Network, both as a relay for terrestrial networks and to provide in-flight internet is discussed.
Understanding Saving and Purchase Patterns of Consumers in a Self-Directed Care Program: The West Virginia Experience

The study examines budget/purchase experiences of participants in the West Virginia’s Medicaid Aged and Disabled Waiver program who completed an application for the purchase of goods/services between September 2009 and August 2011 (N=181). Results indicate that people with disabilities are interested in and able to save for the purchase of goods/services that enhance their welfare. We also learned that items related to improvement in personal functioning (e.g., dental work) and household equipment (e.g., washer) were requested the most. Incorporating budget authority in long-term care delivery system may help the capacity of people with disabilities to meet their needs more efficiently.
Computer personnel research: what have we learned in this decade?

This paper presents the results of quantitative and qualitative analysis of the prior 9 years of SIGCPR proceedings. The purpose is to accumulate results of prior investigations and identify areas requiring further study.
Analysis of Sound Transmission Through Periodically Stiffened Panels by Space-Harmonic Expansion Method

Abstract An analysis method is developed to study sound transmission characteristics of a thin plate stiffened by equally spaced line stiffeners. The dynamic equation that describes the vibro-acoustic response of the system is derived by expanding the structural and acoustic responses in terms of the space harmonics and by using the virtual energy method. The series solution can be considered as the exact solution because the structural and acoustic–structural coupling effects in the system are fully considered and the solution converges. Parameter studies are conducted for major design parameters to understand the characteristics of the system.
Ureteroureterostomy irrespective of ureteral size or upper pole function: A single center experience

Abstract Objective Although ureteroureterostomy (UU) is an established procedure for the treatment of duplex anomalies, there may be a reluctance to apply this approach to patients with poor upper pole function and/or marked degrees of ureteral dilation. Methods An institutional review board (IRB)-approved retrospective analysis of all patients undergoing UU between 2006 and present was performed. All patients underwent an end-to-side anastomosis with a double-J stent left in the lower pole ureter. Laparoscopic repairs were done ‘high’ and open repairs were done ‘low’. If the upper pole ureter remained massively dilated after transection, the ureter was partially closed to reduce the length of the anastomosis. Data collected included demographics, diagnosis, surgical interventions, imaging studies and outcomes. Results A total of 41 patients (43 renal units) were identified. There were 35 females and six males with an average age at surgery of 2.3 years (range 55 days to 15.9 years) and an average follow up of 2.8 years. Diagnosis included ureterocele (17), ectopic duplex ureter (25) and ureteral triplication (1). Thirty-six patients underwent UU only and five underwent UU with simultaneous lower pole reimplantation. Twelve of the 41 patients (29%) underwent laparoscopic repair. Twelve of the 43 renal units (28%) required ureteral tapering, of which three were performed laparoscopically. Preoperative median upper pole function was 17% (0–35%). Six patients had no measurable function and ten had Conclusion Ureteroureterostomy is a safe and effective technique for the reconstruction of duplex anomalies, even with a massively dilated and poorly functioning upper pole moiety. With no identifiable negative effect on the lower pole system, the concept of automatically removing ‘dysplastic’ upper pole segments can be challenged.
Structure and Conductivity of Thermally Grown Scales on Ferritic Fe-Cr-Mn Steel for SOFC Interconnect Applications

With the development of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) that operate in the intermediate temperature range of 650-800°C, ferritic stainless steels have become promising candidate materials for interconnects in SOFC stacks. The SOFC interconnect requires that the alloy possess not only excellent surface stability, but also high electrical conductivity through the oxide scale that forms at elevated temperatures and contributes to the alloy's surface stability. It appears that ferritic Fe-Cr-Mn alloys may be potential candidates due to the formation of an electrically conductive scale containing (Mn, Cr) 3 O 4 spinel. To improve the understanding of scale growth on manganese-containing ferritic stainless steels and evaluate their suitability for use in SOFC interconnects, the oxidation behavior (i.e., growth kinetics, composition, and structure of the oxide scale) and the scale electrical conductivity of a commercially available Fe-Cr-Mn steel developed specifically for SOFC applications were investigated. The results are reported and compared with those of conventional ferritic stainless steel compositions.
An experiment with an introductory course in computer science

During the spring semester of 1977 an experiment was undertaken to determine whether the introductory course in computer science could teach more that it has in the past. The experiment, as a whole, indicated that it is indeed possible to provide more content. Students responded well and learned more. This paper discusses an informal experiment; what motivated it; our methods; and finally its results.
Ventricular contraction abnormalities in dilated cardiomyopathy: effect of biventricular pacing to correct interventricular dyssynchrony.

Abstract OBJECTIVE To measure ventricular contractile synchrony in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and to evaluate the effects of biventricular pacing on contractile synchrony and ejection fraction. BACKGROUND Dilated cardiomyopathy is characterized by abnormal ventricular activation and contraction. Biventricular pacing may promote a more coordinated ventricular contraction pattern in these patients. We hypothesized that biventricular pacing would improve synchrony of right ventricular and left ventricular (RV/LV) contraction, resulting in improved ventricular ejection fraction. METHODS Thirteen patients with DCM and intraventricular conduction delay underwent multiple gated equilibrium blood pool scintigraphy. Phase image analysis was applied to the scintigraphic data and mean phase angles computed for the RV and LV. Phase measures of interventricular (RV/LV) synchrony were computed in sinus rhythm and during atrial sensed biventricular pacing (BiV). RESULTS The degree of interventricular dyssynchrony present in normal sinus rhythm correlated with LV ejection fraction (r = −0.69, p CONCLUSIONS Dilated cardiomyopathy with intraventricular conduction delay is associated with significant interventricular dyssynchrony. Improvements in interventricular synchrony during biventricular pacing correlate with acute improvements in LV ejection fraction.
Matrix equivalence and finite representation type

(1975). Matrix equivalence and finite representation type. Communications in Algebra: Vol. 3, No. 8, pp. 739-748.
Drosophila Ube3a regulates monoamine synthesis by increasing GTP cyclohydrolase I activity via a non-ubiquitin ligase mechanism

Abstract The underlying defects in Angelman syndrome (AS) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may be in part due to basic defects in synaptic plasticity and function. In some individuals serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which decrease pre-synaptic re-uptake of serotonin, can ameliorate symptoms, as can resperidone, which blocks both dopamine and serotonin receptors. Loss of maternal UBE3A expression causes AS, while maternal duplications of chromosome 15q11.2–q13 that include the UBE3A gene cause ASD, implicating the maternally expressed UBE3A gene in the ASD phenotype. In a Drosophila screen for proteins regulated by UBE3A, we identified a key regulator of monoamine synthesis, the gene Punch, or GCH1, encoding the enzyme GTP cyclohydrolase I. Here we show that Dube3a, the fly UBE3A orthologue, regulates Punch/GCH1 in the fly brain. Over-expression of Dube3a elevates tetrahydrobiopterin (THB), the rate-limiting cofactor in monoamine synthesis while loss of Dube3a has the opposite effect. The fluctuations in dopamine levels were associated with hyper- and hypoactivity, respectively, in flies. We show that changes in Punch/GCH1 and dopamine levels do not depend on the ubiquitin ligase catalytic domain of Dube3a. In addition, both wild type Dube3a and a ubiquitination-defective Dube3a-C/A form were found at high levels in nuclear fractions and appear to be poly-ubiquitinated in vivo by endogenous Dube3a. We propose that the transcriptional co-activation function of Dube3a may regulate GCH1 activity in the brain. These results provide a connection between monoamine synthesis (dopamine/serotonin) and Dube3a expression that may explain why some individuals with ASD or AS respond better to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors than others.
Up-regulation of the mitotic checkpoint component Mad1 causes chromosomal instability and resistance to microtubule poisons

The mitotic checkpoint is the major cell cycle checkpoint acting during mitosis to prevent aneuploidy and chromosomal instability, which are hallmarks of tumor cells. Reduced expression of the mitotic checkpoint component Mad1 causes aneuploidy and promotes tumors in mice [Iwanaga Y, et al. (2007) Cancer Res 67:160–166]. However, the prevalence and consequences of Mad1 overexpression are currently unclear. Here we show that Mad1 is frequently overexpressed in human cancers and that Mad1 up-regulation is a marker of poor prognosis. Overexpression of Mad1 causes aneuploidy and chromosomal instability through weakening mitotic checkpoint signaling caused by mislocalization of the Mad1 binding partner Mad2. Cells overexpressing Mad1 are resistant to microtubule poisons, including currently used chemotherapeutic agents. These results suggest that levels of Mad1 must be tightly regulated to prevent aneuploidy and transformation and that Mad1 up-regulation may promote tumors and cause resistance to current therapies.
Organ weight: a new tissue parameter to assess water proton spin-lattice relaxation time

Organ weight has not been considered as a parameter in tissue relaxometry to account for the dependency of spin-lattice relaxation time. Results presented here indicate that, as the organ weight increases, the spin-lattice relaxation time decreases. Furthermore, this relationship has an allometric function, an indication that the metabolic characteristic (oxygen consumption) of the organ is indeed dependent on organ weight and in turn influences spin-lattice relaxation time.
EVALUATION OF PRECORDIAL DETECTION AND ARTERIAL SAMPLING FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF CARDIAC OUTPUT USING THE INDICATOR DILUTION PRINCIPLE.

Summary The external detection method for measuring cardiac output has been compared with the conventional arterial sampling technique to determine the relative accuracy of these techniques. Refinements in the external detection method have included more sensitive precordial detection equipment, focusing collimation and a simplified method for standardization of the counting equipment. Observations were made in human volunteers and dogs. The results indicate that with the equipment and methods used in this study, the systematic error of external detection compared to the cannulation method is approximately plus 3 per cent in human volunteers and plus 5 per cent in dogs, with a standard deviation of 16 and 13 per cent respectively. It would appear from this study that the external detection method is a simple technique for measuring cardiac output and gives results which are within the range of accuracy to make it a useful clinical procedure.
1/f noise in giant magnetoresistive materials

The main source of 1/f resistance noise in materials exhibiting giant magnetoresistance (GMR) is the GMR effect itself. Large 1/f noise from fluctuations in the parallel vs antiparallel alignment appears when ‖dR/dH‖ is large. We have studied this noise as a function of the number of Co/Cu bilayers in multilayer samples and discuss the implications for devices. Barkhausen noise in the resistance as the field is swept through the GMR transition is used to estimate coherent domain sizes between 0.1 and 10 μm2 for a single Co layer in the multilayers. GMR noise is also seen in a Co/Ag granular system.
Racial Diversity, Religion, and Morality: Examining the Moral Views of Multiracial Church Attendees

Previous research has identified an important link between participation in a racially diverse faith community and more progressive views on racial, political, and social issues, but researchers have yet to examine whether multiracial church attendees differ from racially-homogeneous church attendees in terms of their moral views. This research note utilizes national data (2005 Baylor Religion Survey) to examine the relationship between involvement in a multiracial congregation and views toward activities that are understood to be morally contentious. I estimate logistic regression models to isolate the relationship between multiracial church attendance and support for nine morally contentious activities related to sexuality, families, substance use, and suicide. Analyses reveal that, net of other factors, persons who attend multiracial congregations are more likely to express support for extramarital sex, premarital cohabitation, planned unwed pregnancy, marijuana use, and euthanasia, compared to persons who attend homogeneous congregations where they are the majority race. Multiracial church attendees thus appear to hold more permissive moral views on certain issues relative to attendees of racially homogeneous congregations. Significant interactions are also found between multiracial church attendance, race, and religious tradition. Alternative explanatory accounts (social contact vs. self-selection) are considered.
Rheological properties of polyvinylidene fluoride and polymethyl methacrylate engineering alloys

Recent concerns over smoke toxicity and optical properties have forced the electrical/electronics industries, particularly the wire and cable and fiber-optics industries, to focus attention on the development of new materials. The demands are critical for these applications and include not only optical and flammability properties but also thermal and mechanical properties, and, of course, processability. Acrylic-fluoroplastic alloys are exceptional candidates for meeting such requirements. Along with various optical evaluation and traditional mechanical testing, dynamic mechanical testing (DMT) procedures, as specified by ASTM protocols, can be used to evaluate, qualify, and quantify alloys for their end-use properties and processability. Specifically, this paper shows how DMT can be used to monitor both the solid and melt rheological properties of several PMMA/PVDF alloys. Important results of this study include the evaluation of compatibility/miscibility, modulus as a function of temperature, melt viscosity as a function of shear rate, and melt viscosity as a function of temperature.
Science, Experience, and Truth: A Conversation with Myself.

This unusual “interview” could generate interest in students and even help some of them discover that they can think.
Challenges and potential for linking tourism and agriculture to achieve pro-poor tourism objectives:

With tourism rapidly increasing in developing nations there is an emerging focus on integrating pro-poor tourism into both the international tourism and aid agendas. Following a brief review of the pro-poor tourism literature, this article argues for the explicit creation of tourism and agriculture linkages to achieve pro-poor tourism objectives. To understand both the potential and the problems associated with linking the two sectors, we present an in-depth case study of tourism and agriculture in Cancun, Mexico. The case study draws on the perspectives of Cancun hotel chefs, who control hotel food purchasing, and Quintana Roo farmers, who have attempted to supply the tourism industry, to provide a unique thorough examination of the challenges and potential for such linkages in a mass tourism resort.
The Genus Heteromenopon (Mallophaga: Menoponidae), with Description of a New Subgenus and Six New Species

The genus Heteromenopon Carriker is divided into 2 subgenera, Heteromenopon with 10 species from Neotropical parrots, and KEAMENOPON , new subgenus, with 2 species from Australian and New Zealand parrots. New species and their type-hosts are: H. (H.) militaris from Ara militaris , H. (H.) jugularis from Brotogeris jugularis, H. (H.) viridicatae from Pyrrhura viridicata , H. (H.) pictae from Pyrrhura picta subandina , H. (H.) aurifrons from Psilopsiagon aurifrons , and H. (H.) pionopsittae from Pionopsitta haematotis pulchra . Heteromenopon (H.) macrurum (Eichler), H. (K.) kea (Kellogg), and H. (K.) psittacum (Le Souef and Bullen) represent new combinations. Descriptions and a key are given for the known species.
Synthesis and reactivity of cationic ruthenium germylene complexes [Cp*(PiPr3)RuH2(GeRR′)]+

Two synthetic routes to cationic ruthenium germylene complexes are described. A hydrogen-substituted germylene complex undergoes various additions of the Ge-H bond to alkene and alkyne substrates.
Efficient methods for broadcasting multi-slot messages with random access with capture

A new technique for best effort delivery of broadcast bursty multi-slot messages is investigated, using random access with capture. It is shown that a combination of packet level coding and random spreading of a message's packets can improve message reception probability, satisfaction of delay constraints, and throughput in many cases. Furthermore, we show how the specific transmission strategy employed should depend on the message length, total offered traffic, and the specific delay constraints. In addition, we show how edge effects, the finite size of the network, and receiver capture significantly impact performance not only at the edges of the network, but also near the center of the network. Finally, we demonstrate how to leverage these edge effects so that the introduction of minimal feedback from only one or two nodes can substantially improve the probability of message reception for all nodes in the network.
Reaction Kinetics of In-Situ Combustion: Part 2--Modeling

A model is proposed to analyze and differentiate between crude oil/oxygen reactions at different temperatures. The results of this analysis along with correlations of apparent hydrogen/carbon (H/C) ratio and molar carbon dioxide/carbon monoxide (CO/sub 2//CO) ratio indicated three major reactions at different temperatures. Low-temperature oxidation (LTO) appears to occur between the gas and liquid phases. Middle-temperature fuel deposition reactions appear to be homogeneous. The latter was found to be the rate-determining step in clean sands. Natural cores from the reservoirs were found to have different kinetic behavior than the clean sand matrices for these reasons: (1) metallic additives lower the activation energy of the combustion reaction and hence shift the rate-determining steps, and (2) clay and finer sands adsorb more fuel. The proposed kinetic model was found to be applicable to the five oils tested and hence may be generalized for application to any oil.
Induction of DNA Polymerase in WI-38 and guinea pig cells infected with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV).

Abstract Infection of permissive WI-38 cells with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) leads to the induction of DNA polymerase activities at about 20 hr postinfection (p.i.) followed by the induction of DNA synthesis at about 48 hr p.i. The infected WI-38 cells show a nuclear DNA polymerase activity that is novel in being activated by a concentration of ammonium sulfate in the in vitro reaction mixture that is inhibitory to the enzyme activity present in the cytoplasm of infected cells or the nucleus and cytoplasm of uninfected cells. The induction of DNA polymerase is blocked by an inhibitor of protein synthesis but not by an inhibitor of DNA synthesis. Induction of DNA polymerase activity was also seen in infected nonpermissive guinea pig (GP) embryo cells but this DNA polymerase is not salt-dependent. It is suggested that the novel DNA polymerase induced by HCMV infection might be an early protein(s) responsible for viral replication.
Differential two-way sediment transport in the Bristol Channel and Severn Estuary, U.K.

Abstract The main sediment transport paths in the Bristol Channel and Severn Estuary are briefly described; coarse sediment is transported in a generally westward direction and fine sediment in a generally eastward direction. The concept of differential two-way sediment transport is introduced and applied to the modern Bristol Channel area. This phenomenon is considered to be of significance in interpreting ancient sediment transport patterns and shelf configurations.
Vertical InAs diffusion and surface ordering processes in InAs vertical quantum dot columns

Abstract Two structural processes are investigated in association with the vertical stacking of InAs strain-induced quantum dots. First, using cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy we investigate the In diffusion from InAs quantum dots and the quantum well that is intrinsic to the dot formation process. We observe that large-scale vertical diffusion of In is present in the quantum well regions; but in comparison, the In remains remarkably stable in the dot regions. Second, while we have previously observed increased in-plane spatial uniformity in the InAs dot distribution in the uppermost dot layer of vertical stacked structures, we here investigate the mechanism by which this ordering results. We observe a decrease in the column density by two mechanisms that may or may not be independent. First, is a bending and merging of vertical columns and second is the abrupt termination of a vertical column.
Action of tolytoxin on cell morphology, cytoskeletal organization, and actin polymerization

Tolytoxin, a cytostatic, antifungal macrolide produced by blue-green algae of the genus Scytonema, is a potent, reversible inhibitor of cytokinesis in cultured mammalian cells. Treatment of KB cells with 2–16 nM tolytoxin results in profound morphological changes, beginning with the formation of zeiotic processes and culminating in nuclear protrusion. In L1210 cells, cytokinesis is inhibited by as little as 2 nM tolytoxin, while karyokinesis proceeds normally, resulting in polynucleation. Tolytoxin specifically disrupts microfilament organization in A10 cells, while having no apparent effect on microtubules or intermediate filaments. Tolytoxin inhibited actin polymerization in vitro and also caused the depolymerization or fragmentation of F-actin in vitro. Tolytoxin exhibits effects that closely resemble those of cytochalasin B but is effective at concentrations 1/50−1/1,000 that of cytochalasin B. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Channel and contact length scaling in carbon nanotube transistors

In order to consider single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) for a future technology their physical scaling limits must be understood. Such scaling involves shrinking two critical lengths: 1) the channel length (L g ) and 2) the less-emphasized source/drain contact lengths (CL). Until recently, many believed that L g could not be scaled in SWCNT field-effect transistors (CNTFETs) without incurring severe short channel effects (SCEs). However, using an improved device geometry, it has now been shown that proper L g scaling can be achieved with actual enhancement in performance [1]. In this presentation, a more complete picture of L g scaling is given, along with the first reported results of contact length scaling.
Aromatic Hydrocarbon Formation in HSAPO-18 Catalysts: Cage Topology and Acid Site Density

Two samples of the silico-aluminophosphate HSAPO-18 with different acid site densities were prepared, characterized, and studied as methanol-to-olefin catalysts in comparison with the more widely s...
Getting started with PKI

Abstract In the recent history of information protection there has been an ongoing parade of technologies that loudly promise new and total solutions but frequently do not make it past the reviewing stand. In some cases, they break down completely at the start of the march. In others, they end up turning down a side street. Is Public-Key Infrastructure (PKI) just another gaudy float behind more brass bands, or is there sufficient rationale to believe that this one might make it? There are some very good reasons for optimism in this case but optimism has been high before.
Plasma Clearance of Bromsulphalein | (BSP) in Children with Biliary Atresia and Other Hepatobiliary Disorders

Bromsulphalein® (BSP) plasma clearance has been studied in 17 infants with hepatobiliary disorders, including 9 with biliary atresia. A total of 26 clearance studies were made, 24 of which were analyzed by means of a modified 2-compartmental model to provide quantitative data on hepatocellular function.
A Spark Chamber Spectrometer for Space Protons

A new radiation detector instrument system was conceived by one of us (R.M.) in 1962 to measure the spectra of energetic particles in space. A laboratory prototype of a flyable version of such an instrument system has now been constructed under contract to the Air Force Cambridge Research Laboratories. It has been designed to measure unidirectional proton spectra in six energy intervals between 21 Mev and 210 Mev. The system consists of a sealed, compact, six-channel spark-chamber of ceramic and metal construction and associated miniaturized circuits for coincidence triggering, high-voltage pulse generation and data readout. Geiger counter coincidence triggering detectors are arranged co-linearly with the spark chamber. The thicknesses of the plates in the spark chamber are designed so that the intervals in proton range give approximately equal spacings on a logarithmic scale of the proton energy. This spark chamber spectrometer instrument system has the following features: 1. It derives its energy determinations from range-energy relations which are fixed absolute constants for the measurement. 2. The experimental calibration constants such as the solid angle, the effective area, and the direction are common to all channels. 3. It provides digitized information directly in the form of large electrical pulses. 4. It has a detection efficiency of nearly 100 percent. 5. Power consumption is of the order of 1 watt. 6. It is compact and rugged in construction.
Adaptive control of arc welding using infrared sensing

Infrared thermography was employed to identify changes in plate thickness during the arc welding of steel plates. The step changes in plate thickness were found to uniquely affect the surface temperature distributions of the plates during the welding process. A technique was developed to identify the thermal profile irregularities ahead of the weld that were indicative of changes in plate thickness. The results of this investigation suggest that the calculation of the area under the linescan can be successfully used to identify thickness variations in a plate as it is being welded. The gradient of the area beneath the linescan was further found to be indicative of changes in plate thickness.
Application of Mohs micrographic surgery appropriate-use criteria to skin cancers at a university health system.

Background Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is an effective treatment for skin cancer. Until recently, it has been difficult to determine the percentage of skin cancers best treated with MMS. The appropriate-use criteria represents an opportunity to more accurately estimate this number. Objective We sought to apply the appropriate-use criteria retrospectively to University of Virginia Health System skin cancers so as to determine the proportion that met appropriate use within 8 months. Methods A list of all biopsy-proven skin cancers, excluding invasive melanoma, at the University of Virginia Health System during an 8-month period was generated. Patient and tumor data were collected retrospectively from hospital records and each skin cancer was classified as appropriate, inappropriate, or uncertain based on the appropriate-use criteria. Results Among 1059 skin cancers, MMS was appropriate in 72.0% of cases, inappropriate in 20.4%, and uncertain in 7.6%. Altogether, 59.3% of skin cancers occurred in H and M areas, which include the head, neck, hands, feet, ankles, genitalia, nipples/areola, and pretibial surface. Limitations Patient and tumor information was collected retrospectively at 1 institution. Conclusions Using recently published appropriate-use criteria, 72.0% of skin cancers at this institution were appropriate for MMS. Tumor location was the most important factor in determining appropriate use.
The zero of potential

The zero of potential has been the subject of controversy in both electrocardiographic and electroencephalographic literature. In this article zero of potential is discussed in a historical context. It is noted that there is no meaningful zero of potential on a bounded, insulated volume conductor such as the body, and the effect of the reference for recording potentials on surface potential maps is discussed.
Digital holographic measurements of shape and three-dimensional sound-induced displacements of tympanic membrane

Acoustically-induced vibrations of the Tympanic Membrane (TM) play a primary role in the hearing process, in that these motions are the initial mechanical response of the ear to airborne sound. Characterization of the shape and 3D displacement patterns of the TM is a crucial step to a better understanding of the complicated mechanics of sound reception by the ear. In this paper, shape and sound-induced 3D displacements of the TM in cadaveric chinchillas are measured by a lensless Dual-Wavelength Digital Holography system (DWDHS). The DWDHS consists of Laser Delivery (LD), Optical Head (OH), and Computing Platform (CP) subsystems. Shape measurements are performed in double-exposure mode and with the use of two wavelengths of a tunable laser while nanometer-scale displacements are measured along a single sensitivity direction and with a constant wavelength. In order to extract the three principal components of displacement in full-field-of-view, and taking into consideration the anatomical dimensions of the TM, we combine principles of thin-shell theory together with both, displacement measurements along the single sensitivity vector and TM surface shape. To computationally test this approach, Finite Element Methods (FEM) are applied to the study of artificial geometries.
Management of Neonatal Hypercalcemia: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Hypercalcemia in the newborn is relatively uncommon but its causes are numerous. Frequently the newborn infant may have no symptoms but severe hypercalcemia may present dramatically with multiorgan involvement and maybe potentially fatal. Treatment generally depends upon whether the hypercalcemia is mild or moderate/severe. The best treatment option depends on rectifying the underlying cause such as iatrogenic excessive calcium supplementation. However severity of hypercalcemia and clinical presentation may dictate a need to reduce the high serum calcium level emergently. There are no standardized guidelines for the management of neonatal hypercalcemia. We report a case of severe neonatal hypercalcemia which was particularly difficult to treat and also present pertinent review of literature.
Influence of stress stimuli on lymphatic tissue of adrenalectomized mice.

introduction THERE is ample verification that the acute involution of lymphatic tissue associated with most stresses is a result of increased secretions of adrenal cortical hormones caused by stress stimuli (Dougherty and White, 1944, 1945, 1947; YofTey and Baxter, 1946; Ingle, 1950; Yoffey, 1950). However, it should be considered that stresses (defined here as stimuli which activate the mechanisms resulting in increased adrenocortical secretion) might also alter lymphatic tissue by mechanisms other than mediated by adrenocortical hormones. Responses of lymphatic tissue to such an-adrenocortical influences of stress stimuli would be obscured in intact animals by the lymphocytolytic effect of the stress-produced adrenocortical hormone output. Therefore, the occurrence of an-adrenocortical responses in the complex of lymphatic tissue stress reactions can only be determined in animals deprived of their adrenal cortex. Accordingly, various reactions of lymphatic tissue were studied in adrenalectomized mice su...
Modulating Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Much of the morbidity and mortality from intracerebral hemorrhage results from secondary brain injury, which is characterized by brain inflammation, ischemia, and edema. It is thought that modulation of early brain inflammation reduces perihematoma edema and subsequent secondary brain injury. Now, in a proof-of-concept open-label clinical trial, Fu et al. evaluated oral fingolimod, a sphinosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator that inhibits the movement of lymphocytes from lymph nodes. Fingolimod has been shown to reduce the inflammatory response and motor and cognitive deficits after intracerebral hemorrhage in animal models. In 23 patients with primary supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage and hematoma volumes of 5 to 30 ml, a 3-day course of oral fingolimod was compared with a matched control cohort who did not receive the drug. Treatment with fingolimod demonstrated a marked reduction in circulating lymphocytes and perihematoma edema at 7 and 14 days compared with the control group. In addition, fingolimod treatment was associated with short-term neurological improvements and no increase in adverse effects. Despite the limitations of a small sample size and an open-label design, this study demonstrated the biological activity of fingolimod and the potential for immunomodulatory therapies in the management of intracerebral hemorrhage. Y. Fu et al. , Fingolimod for the treatment of intracerebral hemorrhage: A 2-arm proof-of-concept study. JAMA Neurol. 10.1001/jamaneurol.2014.1065 (2014). [[Full Text]][1] [1]: http://archneur.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1885713
Organ selective angiotensin antagonists: Sarcosyl1-cysteinyl(s-methyl)8-angiotensin I

Abstract An angiotensin antagonist, Sarcosyl 1 -Cysteinyl(S-Methyl) 8 -angiotensin I [Sar 1 -Cys(Me) 8 -ANG I] was synthesized and its pharmacological properties evaluated in vivo (rat blood pressure assay) and in vitro (rabbit aortic strip, guinea-pig ileum and rat uterus assay). It was found to be an extremely potent angiotensin II (ANG II) antagonist in the rat pressor assay (dose ratio for ANG II of 1300 during infusion of 5.0 μg/kg/min Sar 1 -Cys-(Me) 8 -ANG I) and a moderately effective antagonist in guinea-pig ileum (pA 2 ≅ 8.2). Moderate antagonism was also seen in the rabbit aortic strip preparation (pA 2 ≅ 8.1) while the analog was inactive in the rat uterus assay. In each of the preparations where antagonist activity was observed there was evidence of non-competitive antagonism. Most striking was the inability of extremely high doses (up to 125 μg ANG II/kg) of ANG II to overcome the Sar 1 -Cys(Me) 8 -ANG I blockade. In both the rat pressor and guinea-pig ileum assays the Sar 1 -Cys(Me) 8 -ANG I antagonism is completely abolished in the presence of the converting enzyme inhibitor SQ14225 (Captopril®-Squibb). Organ selectivity of this analog is discussed in terms of the inherent activity of the active principle (i.e. the Sar 1 -Cys(Me) 8 -angiotensin II [Sar 1 -Cys(Me) 8 -ANG II] released by the action of converting enzyme) and the availability of converting enzyme in each bioassay.
Light scattering from an inhomogeneous fluid.

The methods of geometric optics are used to obtain the irradiance and spectral distribution of light scattered by fluctuations in an inhomogeneous fluid. The optical properties of the fluid are assumed to be described by a local dielectric constant that varies monotonically in one direction.
Statistics on Riemannian manifolds: asymptotic distribution and curvature

In this article a nonsingular asymptotic distribution is derived for a broad class of underlying distributions on a Riemannian manifold in relation to its curvature. Also, the asymptotic dispersion is explicitly related to curvature. These results are applied and further strengthened for the planar shape space of k-ads.
Optimal maintenance-related decision making for deteriorating water distribution systems: 2. Multilevel decomposition approach

A water distribution system often consists of a large number of components. However, funds are, in general, not available to completely update/upgrade the deteriorating water distribution system's components. Limited funds have to be optimally distributed among the system's components on the basis of the contribution of each component to the overall system's availability. The large dimension and high degree of nonlinearity of models of deteriorating large-scale water distribution networks make the maintenance-related problem difficult to handle as a whole. In this paper a multilevel approach is proposed for water distribution systems that maximizes the availability of the overall system under a given cost constraint. This decomposition method tackles a large-scale nonlinear programming problem by solving a set of linear programming problems with a smaller dimension iteratively, thus greatly reducing a large-scale system's complexity.
Construction of new finite dimensional nonlinear filters

The authors present a new way to construct finite dimensional estimation algebra of nonmaximal rank. For a given finite dimensional estimation algebra E, one can construct a finite dimensional estimation algebra E' of nonmaximal rank which is isomorphic to E. The interesting fact is that even if E comes from a linear filtering system, there are arbitrary nonlinear filtering systems associated to E. Since every finite dimensional estimation algebra gives rise to a finite dimensional filter, we have constructed quite a large class of finite dimensional nonlinear filters.
Does radiation dose to the vestibule predict change in balance function and patient perceived dizziness following stereotactic radiotherapy for vestibular schwannoma

Abstract Objective To date, the majority of the vestibular schwannoma (VS) literature has focused on tumor control rates, facial nerve function and hearing preservation. Other factors that have been shown to significantly affect quality-of-life (QOL), such as dizziness, remain understudied. The primary objective of the current study is to investigate the association between radiation dose to the vestibule and post-treatment changes in vestibular function and patient reported dizziness handicap. Materials and methods This is a prospective observational pilot study at a tertiary academic referral center including all subjects that underwent linear accelerator-based stereotactic radiotherapy (SRS) for sporadic VS and completed pre-treatment and post-treatment vestibular testing and Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) questionnaires. Associations between objective vestibular test results, patient-reported DHI scores and radiation dose parameters were investigated. Results Ten patients met inclusion criteria. Tumor control was achieved in all individuals. There were no statistically significant associations or identifiable trends between radiation dose and change in vestibular function or DHI scores. Notably, the four ears receiving the highest vestibular dose had minimal changes in vestibular function tests and DHI scores. Conclusions To the best of our knowledge, no previous reports have described the association between radiation dose to the vestibule and post-treatment changes in vestibular function and patient reported DHI. Based on these preliminary data, radiation dose to the vestibule does not reliably predict change in objective or subjective vestibular outcome measures.
Short-Timers Political Appointee Mobility and its Impact on Political-Career Relations in the Reagan Administration

This article examines the career paths of noncareer members of the Senior Executive Service in the federal government. It develops three models by which they are selected for public service. (Under...
An iterative spatio-temporal speech enhancement algorithm for microphone arrays

We present anew spatio-temporal algorithm for speech enhancement using microphone arrays. Our technique involves the development of an iterative method for computing the generalized eigenvectors of the multichannel data as measured from the microphone array. Coefficient adaptation is performed using the spatio-temporal correlation coefficient sequences of the observed data. The technique avoids large matrix-vector multiplications; hence, the computation time and computational resource requirements are significantly smaller than those of competing methods. The technique is applicable to a wide variety of noise types, including stationary correlated noise and non- stationary speech-like (babble) background noise, without requiring any noise-dependent parameter settings.
Cognitive and social comparison processes in brainstorming

Abstract This brainstorming experiment assessed the extent to which idea exposure produced cognitive stimulation and social comparison effects. One hundred and sixty participants were exposed to either a high or low number of common or unique ideas. The participants’ likelihood of engaging in social comparison processes (high or low) was also manipulated through instructional sets. The results indicated both cognitive stimulation and social comparison effects. Exposure to a high number of ideas and to common ideas enhanced the generation of additional ideas. The effects of exposure to a high number of ideas was greater under high than under low social comparison conditions. Finally, recall of exposed ideas was related to enhanced idea generation. These results are consistent with the social/cognitive influence model of group brainstorming ( Paulus, Dugosh, Dzindolet, Putman, & Coskun, 2002 ).
Detection of helium in silicon by cleavage in a high vacuum

Abstract Helium evolved during the cleavage of silicon crystals in a vacuum was detected using a sensitive mass spectrometer. The silicon had been boron-doped and neutron-irradiated. The amount of helium detected during the cleavage of the crystals was proportional to the original boron doping concentration of the crystals. Annealing the silicon at 930°C greatly increased the quantity of helium released on cleavage. Support is given for the hypothesis of Keesom and Seidel that at high temperatures the helium diffuses to defects in the crystal, forming clusters of helium atoms.
Antenna optimization by using NEWUOA

The NEWUOA is a newly developed trust region based derivative-free method for solving unconstrained optimization problems. We present in this paper this powerful tool for antenna optimization. Two antenna design examples are optimized using simplex method, conjugate gradient method and the NEWUOA algorithm. Optimization results are presented and compared. The NEWUOA shows good performance and is proved to be a suitable tool for antenna optimization.
The Logic of Causal Inference: Econometrics and the Conditional Analysis of Causation

Discontented people might talk of corruption in the Commons, closeness in the Commons and the necessity of reforming the Commons, said Mr. Spenlow solemnly, in conclusion; but when the price of wheat per bushel had been the highest, the Commons had been the busiest; and a man might lay his hand upon his heart, and say this to the whole world, – ‘Touch the Commons, and down comes the country!’