cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Personalized Online Optimization of Networked Systems via Gaussian Processes

I. Abstract We consider a time-varying optimization problem associated with a physical system or a networked system with human-in-the-loop. The optimization problem features a cost comprising a known time-varying function capturing performance metrics of the system, and unknown functions associated with peo-ple/users interacting with such a system. In particular, the latter may capture discomfort, dissatisfaction, or sense of safety perceived by the users. Based on this optimization model, we investigate the development of learning-based online optimization methods with two main objectives: 1) continuously learn each of the cost functions based on feedback from the users; and, 2) utilize the learned functions to solve the target optimization problem in an online fashion. In particular, we focus on the synthesis of first-order online methods where feedback from the user is leveraged to learn the unknown functions via Gaussian Processes (GPs) or shape-constrained GPs concurrently with the execution of the online algorithm; and, measurements of the output of the system are used to estimate the gradient of the known engineering cost. The performance of the online algorithm is analyzed using metrics such as the tracking error and the dynamic regret. We also provide extensions to cases where a network resource is shared among different users, and develop an online consensus-based learning framework that strikes a balance between operational objectives and the perceived comfort and satisfaction of the various users. The upshot of the proposed method is that it learns the cost functions of each individual user, instead of relying on generic synthetic comfort or satisfaction models. As an application example, the proposed algorithms are applied to solve a real-time demand response problem in power grids. In this setting, the proposed online algorithms enable aggregations of distributed energy resources to provide services to the grid (in the form of, e.g., frequency and voltage support) while accounting for the comfort and satisfaction of the users. As an application example, the proposed algorithms are applied to solve a real-time demand response problem in power grids. In this setting, the proposed online algorithms enable aggregations of distributed energy resources to provide services to the grid (in the form of, e.g., frequency and voltage support) while accounting for the comfort and satisfaction of the users.
Block structured adaptive mesh refinement and strong form elasticity approach to phase field fracture with applications to delamination, crack branching and crack deflection

Abstract Fracture is a ubiquitous phenomenon in most composite engineering structures, and is often the responsible mechanism for catastrophic failure . Over the past several decades, many approaches have emerged to model and predict crack failure. The phase field method for fracture uses a surrogate damage field to model crack propagation , eliminating the arduous need for explicit crack meshing. In this work a novel numerical framework is proposed for implementing hybrid phase field fracture in heterogeneous materials. The proposed method is based on the “reflux-free” method for solving, in strong form, the equations of linear elasticity on a block-structured adaptive mesh refinement (BSAMR) mesh. The use of BSAMR enables highly efficient and scalable regridding, facilitates the use of temporal subcycling for explicit time integration, and allows for ultra-high refinement at crack boundaries with minimal computational cost. The method is applied to a variety of simple heterogeneous structures: laminates, wavy interfaces, and circular inclusions . In each case a non-dimensionalized parameter study is performed to identify regions of behavior, varying both the geometry of the problem and the relative fracture energy release rate . In the laminate and wavy interface cases, regions of delamination and fracture correspond to simple analytical predictions. For the circular inclusions, the modulus ratio of the inclusion is varied as well as the delamination energy release rate and the problem geometry. In this case, a wide variety of behaviors was observed, including deflection, splitting, delamination, and pure fracture.
External Validation of the Renal Ablation-Specific (MC)2 Risk Scoring System in Predicting Complications from Percutaneous Renal Cryoablation.

The (MC)2 score is a renal ablation-specific risk scoring system to predict major complications from percutaneous renal cryoablation (PRCA). However, it is untested in an external population of patients. The purpose of this study is to validate the ability of the (MC)2 score to predict major complications after PRCA in an external population. Retrospective review of patients who underwent PRCA from 2004 to 2019. Patient demographics, medical histories, and tumor characteristics were collected. The (MC)2 score was calculated and patients were assigned to low risk ( 8) groups. Complications were recorded. Major complications were classified according to CIRSE guidelines. Two hundred and one patients [M = 116; F = 85; median age = 65 (range 27–90)] met inclusion criteria. Eleven patients (5.5%) developed major complications and 50 patients (24.9%) developed minor complications. Of patients with major complications, mean tumor diameter was 39 mm (± 10.4), seven patients (63.6%) had a central tumor, four patients (36.4%) had complicated diabetes, and one patient (9.1%) had a prior MI. Major complication rates were 2.1%, 14%, and 14.3% in the (MC)2 low risk, moderate risk, and high risk groups, respectively. The mean (MC)2 score for patients with major complications [6.2 (± 2.4)] was higher than the mean score for patients with minor complications [4.7 (± 2.4) (p = 0.07)] and no complications [3.9 (± 1.9) (p < 0.01)]. The area under the ROC curve to predict major complications was 0.78. The (MC)2 risk scoring system appropriately identifies patients at risk for major complications from PRCA in this external patient population.
Ly-6A-Induced Growth Inhibition and Cell death in a Transformed CD4+ T cell line: Role of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α)

Engaging the Ly-6A protein, an inhibitory signaling protein, on CD4+ T cell lines triggers apoptosis. Signaling through Ly-6A activates cell-intrinsic apoptotic cell death pathway as indicated by release of cytochrome C, activation of caspase 3 and 9. In addition Ly-6A induces cytokine production and growth inhibition. The mechanism underlying simultaneous distinct cellular responses has remained unknown. To examine the relatedness of distinct responses generated by engaging Ly-6A, we have quantified the secretion of TNF, TGF{beta} and a related protein GDF10, the three pro-apoptotic, growth inhibitory and tumor suppressive cytokines. While low levels of TGF{beta} and GDF10 were detected after engaging Ly-6A, the production of TNF- was elevated in cell cultures stimulated the Ly-6A protein. Blocking the biological activity of TNF resulted in reduced apoptosis induced by engaging Ly-6A. In contrast, growth inhibition/apoptosis in response to antigen receptor complex stimulation was not observed. Engaging the antigen receptor through activating the epsilon ({varepsilon}) chain of CD3 generated high levels of TGF-{beta} and GDF10 while decreasing TNF. These results suggest that the TNF- cytokine contributes to the Ly-6A-induced growth inhibitory and pro-apoptotic response in CD4+ T cells and provides mechanistic explanation of the observed biologically distinct responses initiated after engaging Ly-6A protein. These findings aid in understanding the inhibitory signaling initiated by Ly-6A protein, especially in the context of its potential immune checkpoint inhibitory role in T cells.
SEDIMENT INERTIA AS CAUSE OF RIVER ANTIDUNES

The formation of antidunes on riverbeds is explained in terms of sediment inertial effects. Due to inertia, bed sediment in transport cannot respond immediately to flow changes. To quantify the effect, a simple equation for sediment momentum balance is derived. A stability analysis indicates that riverbeds are unstable for a specific range of Froude numbers and that the instability leads exclusively to antidune formation. The instability, which is scaled by a dimensionless number representing the ratio of sediment inertia to friction, is a result of a spatial lag of bed load behind bed stress. An analytical relation for spatial lag is obtained, and the lag is estimated for some experimental data. The limits of antidune formation are compared with data.
E-participation in local governments

Purpose – The purpose of this research is to examine factors that explain top governmental officials' support for e-participation in American local governments, and to examine the impacts of e-participation adoption on local governments in the USA. Design/methodology/approach – This study utilizes a national survey of e-participation among US local governments, which examines factors that predict greater political-managerial support for e-participation and factors associated with positive impacts from e-participation. Findings – This research found that demand was the most important factor predicting political-managerial support for e-participation and impacts. Research limitations/implications – This study produced somewhat limited results partly because relatively few of the responding governments had adopted any significant number of e-participation activities. A second limitation is that the authors took a quantitative approach to e-participation supports and impacts, which did not enable them to teas...
Chapter 10 A High-Resolution Multimode Digital Microscope System

This chapter describes the development of a high-resolution, multimode digital imaging system based on a wide-field epifluorescent and transmitted light microscope, and a cooled charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. The three main parts of this imaging system are Nikon FXA microscope, Hamamatsu C4880 cooled CCD camera, and MetaMorph digital imaging system. This chapter presents various design criteria for the instrument and describes the major features of the microscope components—the cooled CCD camera and the MetaMorph digital imaging system. The Nikon FXA upright microscope can produce high resolution images for both epifluorescent and transmitted light illumination without switching the objective or moving the specimen. The functional aspects of the microscope set-up can be considered in terms of the imaging optics, the epi-illumination optics, the transillumination optics, the focus control, and the vibration isolation table. This instrument is somewhat specialized for microtubule and mitosis studies, and it is also applicable to a variety of problems in cellular imaging, including tracking proteins fused to the green fluorescent protein in live cells. The instrument is also valuable for correlating the assembly dynamics of individual cytoplasmic microtubules (labeled by conjugating X-rhodamine to tubulin) with the dynamics of membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum (labeled with DiOC6) and the dynamics of the cell cortex (by differential interference contrast) in migrating vertebrate epithelial cells. This imaging system also plays an important role in the analysis of mitotic mutants in the powerful yeast genetic system Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Ion Chemistry of the D and E Regions

The ion chemistry of the lower ionosphere is characterized by a high degree of complexity, caused by a combination of relatively high pressures, leading to fast chemical reactions, and strong sunlight rich in photochemically active UV radiation. This presentation will be concerned mainly with the results of laboratory investigations of the relevant reactions, and their applicability to the lower ionosphere; the mass-spectrometric observations of ion composition will be reviewed in a later paper (Narcisi, 1973).
The Social Amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum is Highly Resistant to Polyglutamine Aggregation

The expression, misfolding, and aggregation of long repetitive amino acid tracts are a major contributing factor in a number of neurodegenerative diseases, including C9ORF72 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia, fragile X tremor ataxia syndrome, myotonic dystrophy type 1, spinocerebellar ataxia type 8, and the nine polyglutamine diseases. Protein aggregation is a hallmark of each of these diseases. In model organisms, including yeast, worms, flies, mice, rats, and human cells, expression of proteins with the long repetitive amino acid tracts associated with these diseases recapitulates the protein aggregation that occurs in human disease. Here we show that the model organism Dictyostelium discoideum has evolved to normally encode long polyglutamine tracts and express these proteins in a soluble form. We also show that Dictyostelium has the capacity to suppress aggregation of a polyglutamine-expanded Huntingtin construct that aggregates in other model organisms tested. Together, these data identify Dictyostelium as a novel model organism with the capacity to suppress aggregation of proteins with long polyglutamine tracts.
NDT Standards from the Perspective of the Department of Defense

Abstract : This presentation illustrates the interaction of the DoD non- Government Society (NGS) bodies in the area of NDT. The adoption process for NGS will be outlined including the criteria for adoption, what adoption means. and the advantages of DOD/NGS interaction. The tasks of the DoD's Standardization Program Plan for NDT will be described along with DoD's efforts on a Joint Army, Navy, Air Force (JANNAF) NDE Subcommittee and on an inter- national standardization group (America, Britain. Canada, and Australia) called the Quadripartite Working Group on Proofing, Inspection, and Quality Assurance.
Use of a Sodium Chloride—Phosphate Buffer for pH Standardization in a New Blood-Gas Analyzer with an Isotonic Sodium Chloride Bridge

Two different blood-gas analyzers were tested to determine the effects on blood pH measurement of changing the reference bridge solution from saturated KCl to normal saline (0.16 mol of NaCl per liter). This change, which necessitated the preparation of modified buffers equimolal in NaCl with respect to blood, virtually eliminated salt depletion of the bridge solution and improved the stability of the liquid-junction potential between the bridge solution and the sample. The instruments we used were the Corning 165 pH Blood Gas Analyzer and the Radiometer E5021 pH Electrode with PHM72 Acid Base Analyzer. Comparison of results on clinical blood samples indicates that performance with the modified bufferbridge system is the same as that obtained with the conventional scheme. Analytical performances of the Corning and Radiometer instruments for P O 2 and P CO 2, as well as for pH, were comparable.
CReconfigurable finite field instruction set architecture

Reconfigurable computing can provide a significant speed-up factor to cryptographic and error correcting code algorithms. Finite field arithmetic is essential to both, but is difficult to implement efficiently. Finite field instruction set extensions and a reconfiguration framework have been constructed to enable a finite field multiplier to be regenerated via software control. A performance evaluation has been created by generating a Finite Field Extensions Unit with MicroBlaze processor in a Xilinx Virtex2Pro FPGA. By utilizing the in-system partial reconfiguration capability, the finite field multiplier can be customized to a particular size and definition. With a customized GF(2163 ) multiplier, a speed-up factor of 1530X has been demonstrated versus execution of the same algorithm on the MicroBlaze processor alone.
Hemoglobin switching in sheep and goats: occurrence of hemoglobins A and C in the same red cell.

Sheep and goats switch from the synthesis of hemoglobin A (α2β2A) to hemoglobin C (α2β2C) when made anemic. We have demonstrated the existence of the asymmetrical hybrid hemoglobin, α2βAβC, in the circulating red cells of anemic sheep. These erythroid cells, therefore, synthesized both A and C hemoglobin simultaneously. Thus, the switch appears to be mediated by selective gene expression rather than by a clonal or cellular selective mechanism.
Combined Fluid Percussion Brain Injury and Entorhinal Cortical Lesion: A Model for Assessing the Interaction Between Neuroexcitation and Deafferentation

ABSTRACT Laboratory studies suggest that excessive neuroexcitation and deafferentation contribute to long-term morbidity following human head injury. Because no current animal model of traumatic br...
RFLP variation in diploid and tetraploid alfalfa.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is a major forage crop throughout the world. Although alfalfa has many desirable traits, continued breeding is required to incorporate pest resistances and other traits. We conducted this study to determine the amount of restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) variability present within and between diploid and tetraploid alfalfa populations, and whether or not this variability is sufficient for construction of an RFLP map. Diploid plants from M. sativa ssp. falcata, ssp. coerulea, and ssp. sativa and tetraploid spp. sativa cultivars ‘Apollo,’ ‘Florida 77,’ and ‘Spredor 2’ were included. A total of 19 cDNA clones was probed onto genomic Southern blots containing DNA digested by EcoRI, HindIII, or BamHI. Phylogenetic trees were produced, based on parsimony analysis of shared restriction fragments. Evidence for extensive gene duplication was found; most probes detected complex patterns of restriction fragments. Large amounts of variation are present within all diploid subspecies. M. sativa ssp. falcata plants formed clusters distinct from ssp. sativa or ssp. coerulea plants, which were not distinctly clustered. Some M. sativa ssp. falcata plants were more similar to the other groups than to other plants within ssp. falcata. Variation among tetraploid cultivars showed that Florida 77 and Apollo had more similarities than either showed with Spredor 2. All three cultivars showed large within-population variation, with Apollo being the most diverse and Spredor 2 the least. Based on these results, development of an RFLP map at the diploid level appears possible. Also, differentiation of cultivars, particularly ones of divergent origin, seems possible based on RFLP patterns.
Young and older good learners have higher levels of brain nicotinic receptor binding.

Neuronal αβ heteromeric and α7 homomeric nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) were compared in 4- and 27-month rabbits selected for learning proficiency. Sixty 4- and 60 27-month rabbits received the α7 nAChR agonist (MEM-3389), galantamine, or vehicle during training in trace eyeblink classical conditioning. Brain tissue from the best and worst young and older learners was analyzed with radioligand binding. Vehicle-treated 4- and 27-month good learners had higher αβ heteromeric nAChR binding in hippocampus and temporal–parietal cortex than poor learners, and this result was replicated in both age groups of rabbits treated with galantamine. Results indicate that anatomically more numerous nAChRs or functional activation of a greater number of nAChRs may characterize animals demonstrating optimal learning. During normal aging the expression of high-affinity binding sites declines. Age-related changes in the expression of hippocampal αβ heteromeric nAChRs may account for some of the documented age-related impairment in learning. However, individual differences in αβ heteromeric nAChRs also exist early in life, as better learning in 4-month rabbits was associated with significantly higher binding.
Registry of laparoscopic cholecystectomy and new and evolving laparoscopic techniques

To collect information on the rapid application of laparoscopic surgery, the National Laparoscopic Surgery Registry surveyed more than 4,000 of the 16,000 currently practicing laparoscopic surgeons. Preliminary analysis of the data has revealed that most of the respondents had been trained in general surgery, but a small percentage were certified only in surgical subspecialties. Surgeons acquiring skills in laparoscopic surgery had various levels of experience ranging from less than 1 year to more than 38 years in surgical practice. Nearly 90% of the respondents attended a laparoscopic cholecystectomy course with hands-on training. In those courses, an average of 16 hours was devoted to animal laboratories for acquisition of skills. Additional training in the form of a preceptorship is being undertaken by an increasing number of surgeons. The future of minimally invasive surgery is being supported by rapid advances in technology. New video systems capable of displaying three-dimensional images and miniaturized fiberoptic scopes are now available. Computer enhanced three-dimensional ultrasound images provide the surgeon with the ability to examine the content and consistency of tissues in addition to their appearance. Advances in mechanical retraction may eliminate the need for carbon dioxide insufflation of the abdomen. Tissue repair using tissue glues or laser-mediated processes may reduce the need for endocavitary suturing. These advances in technology and techniques may reduce the morbidity and mortality of these surgical procedures and, ultimately, improve the standard of case for surgical patients.
Euler and the Zeta Function

(1974). Euler and the Zeta Function. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 81, No. 10, pp. 1067-1086.
Absence of proton channels in COS-7 cells expressing functional NADPH oxidase components.

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase is an enzyme of phagocytes that produces bactericidal superoxide anion (O2−) via an electrogenic process. Proton efflux compensates for the charge movement across the cell membrane. The proton channel responsible for the H+ efflux was thought to be contained within the gp91 phox subunit of NADPH oxidase, but recent data do not support this idea (DeCoursey, T.E., V.V. Cherny, D. Morgan, B.Z. Katz, and M.C. Dinauer. 2001. J. Biol. Chem. 276:36063–36066). In this study, we investigated electrophysiological properties and superoxide production of COS-7 cells transfected with all NADPH oxidase components required for enzyme function (COS phox ). The 7D5 antibody, which detects an extracellular epitope of the gp91 phox protein, labeled 96–98% of COS phox cells. NADPH oxidase was functional because COS phox (but not COSWT) cells stimulated by phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) or arachidonic acid (AA) produced superoxide anion. No proton currents were detected in either wild-type COS-7 cells (COSWT) or COS phox cells studied at pHo 7.0 and pHi 5.5 or 7.0. Anion currents that decayed at voltages positive to 40 mV were the only currents observed. PMA or AA did not elicit detectable H+ current in COSWT or COS phox cells. Therefore, gp91 phox does not function as a proton channel in unstimulated cells or in activated cells with a demonstrably functional oxidase.
Characterisation and uniqueness of optimal estimating function

Abstract In this paper, a characterisation of the optimal estimating function is given. The uniqueness of the optimal standardised estimating function is established. Using the characterisation, it is shown that the marginal score function and conditional score function are optimal under different conditions.
Stellenwert der Biometrie des fetalen Herzens im II und II Trimenon der Schwangerschaft

Angebore Herzfehler stellen mit einer Inzidenz von 0,7 - 0,9% die haufigsten kongenitalen Fehlbildungen dar. Im Rahmen der pranatalen Diagnostik des fetalen Herzens dient die Ermittlung der Biometrie mittels charakteristischer Parameter vor allem zur Beurteilung des normalen Wachstums und der Erkennung von Normabweichungen. Das Ziel der retrospektiven Studie bestand in der Erstellung eigener Normkurven fur verschiedene biometrische Parameter des fetalen Herzens.
Patterned flattened modes

We show that field-flattened strands may be added to and arbitrarily positioned within a field-flattened shell to create patterned, flattened modes. Patterning does not alter the effective index or flatness of the flattened mode but does alter the characteristics of other modes; we show that it can improve a flattened mode’s bend performance significantly. Patterning provides a new and potentially valuable waveguide design tool that may lead to higher-power transport and laser fibers.
Adjoined Dimension Column Clustering to Improve Data Warehouse Query Performance

Columns of dimension tables that are frequently restricted in queries on a star schema database are materialized into the fact table by various means, depending on database product features. This makes it possible to create a multidimensional partitioning on the fact table, so that many queries restricting columns in hierarchies of the columns materialized will retrieve only a small number of cells of a rectangular subset of the partitioning. We believe this approach to be a previously undiscovered, though seemingly obvious, method to accelerate query performance.
Infrared properties of the gauge theory coupling constant III

Abstract In previous papers we have outlined a program for deriving the infrared behavior of the axial gauge gluon propagator in a pure Yang-Mills theory. The program is based on an integral equation for the gluon propagator derived from the Dyson equation and the Ward identities. Here we present a solution to this equation, obtained numerically. The solution exhibits a Singularity in the infrared, and therefore presumably predicts confinement of color. The method is supposed to be exact in the infrared. Away from the infrared, therefore, our solution is only approximate. Nevertheless, even in the ultraviolet, our solution for the propagator is not very different from the known asymptotic freedom result, so it may be that it is a reasonable approximation over the entire range of momentum.
Four out of eight genes in a mouse chromosome 7 congenic donor region are candidate obesity genes.

We previously identified a region of mouse chromosome 7 that influences body fat mass in F2 littermates of congenic × background intercrosses. Current analyses revealed that alleles in the donor re...
Formation of titanium nitride nanoparticles within mesoporous silica SBA-15.

We report the first synthesis of titanium nitride (TiN) nanoparticles inside the nanoscale channels of mesoporous silica SBA-15. The TiN precursor, Ti(NMe2)4 in toluene, was incorporated into the methyl group-modified channels of the SBA-15 powder. The functionalization of pore surfaces with methyl groups generates hydrophobic surfaces that facilitate impregnation with Ti(NMe2)4 and minimizes reactions between the TiN precursor and the hydroxyl groups on the surface of SBA-15. Formation of TiN nanoparticles inside the mesoporous channels of SBA-15 was carried out by subsequent ammonolysis at high temperatures (700−750 °C). The final products have been characterized by TEM and EELS images, powder XRD patterns, FTIR spectra, UV−vis absorption spectra, and nitrogen adsorption isotherm measurements to confirm the presence and distribution of TiN nanoparticles in the SBA-15 samples.
SOURCES OF HYDROCARBON EMISSIONS FROM LOW-TEMPERATURE PREMIXED COMPRESSION IGNITION COMBUSTION FROM A COMMON RAIL DIRECT INJECTION DIESEL ENGINE

Low-temperature premixed compression ignition combustion (PCI) discussed in this study is achieved via late injection timing (close to top dead center) and heavy exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) using ultra low sulfur Swedish diesel fuel (sulfur content less than 15 ppm). PCI obtains a simultaneous decrease in particulate matter (PM) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx), as where injection timing is retarded, as opposed to conventional combustion, where a PM-NOx trade-off is observed. In PCI, hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) are increased, and must be removed using aftertreatment. In order to understand the sources of HC from the PCI regime, gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector is employed to perform exhaust HC speciation at three EGR rates and three injection timings. Volatile HC, semi-volatile HC, and CO increase as the injection timing is retarded or EGR is increased. Retarded injection timing or increased EGR reduces peak cylinder bulk temperature and thereby increases the yield of CO a...
A young woman with severe hypoxemia, electrocardiographic changes, and altered mental status.

This case highlights the importance of thorough history-taking and the need to maintain a broad differential diagnosis, even if the test results seem definitive.
Chromosomal location of a gene (idg) that specifies production of the blue pigment indigoidine inErwinia chrysanthemi

Production of a blue pigment, indigoidine, is a variable trait among wild-type strains ofErwinia chrysanthemi; it is also influenced by the composition of the growth medium. Starting with a nonpigmented wild-type strain (ICPB EC183) ofE. chrysanthemi, we obtained by nitrosoguanidine mutagenesis a pigmented (idg+) mutant strain (AC6055), which simultaneously was Arg−. Linkage betweenarg andidg was established in two-factor transductional and conjugational crosses. Coinheritance ofidg withhis+,ilv+,leu+,ser+,thr+, orura+ transductants was not observed. Spontaneous Arg+ revertants of AC6055 were invariably Idg+. The pigments produced by AC6055, Idg+ recombinants, and wild-type Idg+ strains were identical, judged by absorption spectra (λmax = 615 nm) of the dimethylsulfoxide extracts of whole cells. We concluded that nitrosoguanidine caused comutation in thearg andidg loci that are linked on theE. chrysanthemi chromosome.
Relations between and among contaminant concentrations and biomarkers in black bass (Micropterus spp.) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio) from large U.S. rivers, 1995–2004

Environmental contaminant and biomarker monitoring data from major U.S. river basins were summarized for black bass (Micropterus spp.) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio) sampled over a nine year period. Cumulative frequency distributions revealed taxon differences for many organochlorine residue concentrations, elemental contaminant concentrations, and biomarkers, but few gender differences were evident for chemical concentrations. Concentrations of dacthal, pentachloroanisole, p,p′-DDE, endosulfan sulfate, barium, cadmium, copper, manganese, lead, selenium, vanadium, and zinc were greater in carp than bass, but concentrations of mercury and magnesium were greater in bass. Gender differences were evident in bass for mercury and in carp for zinc, but the differences were small compared to taxon differences. Greater vitellogenin concentrations, 17β-estradiol concentrations, 17β-estradiol/11-ketotestosterone ratios, and percent oocyte atresia in female carp compared to female bass may be related to the sequential spawning of carp. Regression analyses indicated that as much as 78% of biomarker variation was explained by chemical contaminant concentrations. Sites grouped consistently by river basin in the chemical contaminant principal components analysis (PCA) models and were driven by mercury, magnesium, barium, mirex, and oxychlordane. PCA models for the biomarkers did not group the sites by basin for either bass or carp. Statistical analyses and data interpretation were limited by the study design. The implications of these limitations are discussed. Recommendations to be considered during the planning of future monitoring studies include the exclusion of gender- and species-specific sampling for certain chemical contaminants considering analytical methods with appropriate sensitivities; and allowing for the addition of new chemical and biological variables as methods and information needs evolve.
Mechanistic investigation of solvent extraction based on anion-functionalized ionic liquids for selective separation of rare-earth ions

In this study, solvation has been found to be a dominant mechanism in an ionic liquid (IL)-based extraction system for rare earth elements (REEs). Trioctylmethylammonium di(2-ethylhexyl)phosphate ([TOMA][DEHP]), an anion-functionalized IL extractant, was used in 1-alkyl-3-methylimidizolium bis[(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)]imide ([C(n)mim][NTf2], n = 4, 6, 8, 10) and 1-alkyl-3-methylimidizolium bis(perfluoroethanesulfonyl)imide ([C(n)mim][BETI], n = 4, 6, 8, 10) for the separation of REEs. Surprisingly, a very similar extraction behavior was observed even as the carbon chain length on the IL cation increased from butyl (C4) to decyl (C10). This behavior is in sharp contrast to that exhibited by the conventional molecular extractants, whose extraction efficiencies are strongly dependent on the hydrophobicity of IL cations. Furthermore, the addition of IL cations ([C(n)mim](+)) in [C(n)mim]Cl form or IL anions ([NTf2](-) or [BETI](-)) in Li[NTf2] or Li[BETI] form to the aqueous phase had a minor effect on the extraction behavior of the above extraction system, ruling out the strong involvement of the ion-exchange mechanism associated with traditional IL-based extraction systems. Results showed that the extractabilities and selectivities of REEs using [TOMA][DEHP] in [C10mim][NTf2]/[BETI] are several orders of magnitude better than those achieved using a conventional organic solvent, diisopropylbenzene (DIPB). This study highlights the potential of developing a comprehensive IL-based extraction strategy for REEs separations via ionic extractants.
Channel Flow Cell for Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroelectrochemistry

A channel-type spectroelectrochemical cell is described for the acquisition of potential difference (PD) attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FT-IR) spectroscopy of solution phase species generated at an electrode surface under conditions of well-defined laminar flow. The capabilities of the cell have been assessed using the reduction of bisulfite (2 M) in a weakly acidic (pH = 5.25), unbuffered, aqueous electrolyte as a model system. The PD ATR-FT-IR spectrum obtained at -0.85 V vs SCE, a potential negative enough for the reduction of HSO 3 - to proceed, compared to the spectrum recorded at a potential at which no reaction occurs (0.0 V vs SCE) as a reference, was dominated by negative- and positive-pointing contributions due to the reactant, bisulfite, and the predominant product, dithionite, respectively. Also identified in the spectrum was sulfite, which is produced by the dissociation of bisulfite induced by the increase in the pH of the medium during the reduction reaction. Theoretical aspects regarding the quantitative analysis of these data are briefly discussed.
Hedonic Valuation of Sportfishing Harvest

Abstract A hedonic valuation strategy is introduced to estimate the marginal value of sportfishing harvest. The strategy uses market prices, thereby avoiding some of the measurement problems associated with the constructed or proxy prices used in common valuation methods. A charter fee hedonic equation is estimated using data from the market for offshore charter fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. The marginal value of sportfishing harvest is identified using spatial variation in harvest rates and fish sizes. A two-stage minimum distance estimator is used to address potential omitted variables and cluster-sampling issues. Our results demonstrate that valid estimates of the marginal value of sportfishing harvest can be derived directly using market prices. The estimated marginal value per fish is consistent with published estimates using alternative methods. Thus, the hedonic approach suggested in this article offers promise as an independent validation of the typical methods used to value sportfishing harvest....
In vitro selection of optimal DNA substrates for T4 RNA ligase

We have used in vitro selection techniques to characterize DNA sequences that are ligated efficiently by T4 RNA ligase. We find that the ensemble of selected sequences ligated about 10 times as efficiently as the random mixture of sequences used as the input for selection. Surprisingly, the majority of the selected sequences approximated a well-defined consensus sequence.
X-Stop: foot drop.

Abstract Background context The X-Stop (Kyphon, Sunnyvale, CA), a device implanted between adjacent lumbar spinous processes at one or two levels particularly in the geriatric population, theoretically decompresses the spinal canal by reversing the lordosis. Purpose The X-Stop relieves the symptoms of lumbar stenosis. Study design/setting A case report from the United States. Patient sample A case report focusing on how X-Stop placement resulted in a bilateral foot drop in an 84-year-old patient, which was relieved 9 months later with laminectomy. Outcome measures The patient's outcome was based on the neurological examination. Methods An 84-year-old male with lumbar neurogenic claudication/radiculopathy, exhibited magnetic resonance (MR)-documented L4–L5 lumbar stenosis and Grade I degenerative spondylolisthesis. At an outside institution, an L4–L5 X-Stop was placed; he immediately developed a bilateral foot drop. Three months later, the X-Stop extruded, and was removed; his foot drop remained unchanged. Nine months after the original surgery, based on new MR/computed tomography (CT) documented severe (L2–L3, L4–L5), moderate (L1–L2, L3–L4, L5–S1) stenosis, and the L4–L5 Grade I degenerative spondylolisthesis, the second surgeon performed an L1–S1 laminectomy with L4–L5 noninstrumented fusion. Results Postoperatively, the patient's bilateral foot drop largely resolved. Conclusions Placing the X-Stop device at severely stenotic levels, particularly when accompanied by degenerative spondylolisthesis, may contribute to significant postoperative neurological sequelae in geriatric patients. For those with limited comorbidities, operative decompression may prove the safer alternative.
Minimum entropy deconvolution and blind equalisation

Relationships between minimum entropy deconvolution, developed primarily for geophysics applications, and blind equalization are pointed out. It is seen that a large class of existing blind equalization algorithms are directly related to the scale-invariant cost functions used in minimum entropy deconvolution. Thus the extensive analyses of these cost functions can be directly applied to blind equalization, including the important asymptotic results of Donoho.
Current algorithms and prognostic factors in the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma.

Abstract Metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is highly resistant to chemotherapy but responds modestly to cytokine therapy. The prognosis for longterm survival is poor. Approximately 10% of patients who present with metastatic disease or relapse after nephrectomy are alive at 5 years. Identification of prognostic or predictive factors for individual patient outcomes is necessary in order to develop tailored treatments that reduce the risk of relapse and enhance the chance of successful management. The relationship between pretreatment clinical features and survival has been evaluated in studies leading to the creation of a Memorial Sloan- Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) risk model. Additionally, the cloning of the von Hippel—Lindau tumor suppressor gene, and the elucidation of its role in upregulating growth factors associated with angiogenesis, has provided insight into RCC biology and defined a series of targets for novel therapeutic agents. These targeted agents, including sunitinib, sorafenib, temsirolimus, everolimus, and bevacizumab plus interferon-α, have shown benefit in phase III trials in first- and second-line therapy. Analysis of the data from these trials and use of prognostic models have resulted in a new paradigm for the treatment of metastatic RCC. Herein, we review these targeted agents, the MSKCC risk model, and the new paradigm for treatment of metastatic RCC.
Analysis of composite stretched-membrane heliostats

The stretched-membrane concept has the potential for reducing the cost of heliostats used for solar thermal energy generation in central receiver systems. In this concept, a high strength/structural membrane carrying the reflective film is stretched uniformly on a toroidal frame. The resulting structure has high stiffness and is structurally efficient. It is practically suitable for composite materials, since the loading is primarily in-plane. In this paper, the application of composite materials to stretched-membrane heliostat design is investigated. The results of the analysis show that composite materials for both the membrane and the frame exhibit significant advantages over metals. These include high strength-to-weight design, higher resistance to wind-induced deformation, the possibility of independently tailoring bending and torsional stiffness, and better transportability.
Concentration dependence of femtosecond coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering in the presence of strong absorption

We study near-resonant femtosecond coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) of dipicolinic acid (DPA) by exciting the molecular system with a pair of visible pump and Stokes pulses and probing the resultant molecular coherence with a time-delayed UV probe pulse. We record the generated Stokes and anti-Stokes pulse energies as functions of DPA concentration. We observe that the CARS signal has a maximum and the power-law dependence is steeper than the well-known quadratic one. We present a model that describes the propagation of the generated signal through the medium. From this model, we derive an analytical expression that closely agrees with our experimental data. Since DPA serves as a marker molecule for bacterial spores, our results help to establish the detectability limits for a lethal spore dosage when the present technique is applied.
Computers and a normative model of the policy process

This paper begins with a simple normative model of the policy process in terms of the information and authority relationships and flows required to meet two assumed criteria: those of democracy (informed citizen participation) and intelligence (anticipation and learning). The model contains four actors: elite, public, anticipatory unit, and monitoring unit. The paper continues with a descriptive summary of the major characteristics of the four actors which work against the realization of the information and authority connections which our criteria require. The final section suggests general ways in which computers, especially interactive computing using graphics, can lessen the force of the inhibiting characteristics The general suggestions are supplemented by three illustrative applications: inductive data analysis (IDEA), mapping the urban system (the Kankakee project), and eliciting and enriching citizen preferences (the Smithsonian and the PLATO projects).
Some Skeptical Thoughts on the Theory of Induced Innovation

A. The process of accumulating knowledge, 208. — B. Growth with non-stationary innovation possibility function, 213. — C. Conclusion, 218.
Karotype and Revised Chromosome Number of Amphiuma

A REVISED chromosome number of 28 has been established for the amphibian Amphiuma means tridactylum Cuvier, the congo eel, from studies of both somatic and meiotic divisions in smears of testicular tissue. The somatic complement of 28 was clearly demonstrated in mitotic prophases and metaphases, most of which were of karyotype quality (Figs. 1 and 2). Counts derived from the various stages of meiosis, notably diakinesis (Fig. 3) and anaphase, further support the validity of the somatic count.
Near-IR Spectrophotometry of Saturnian Aerosols—Meridional and Vertical Distribution

Abstract Photometrically calibrated grism spectra of Saturn in the H-(1.45–1.80 μm) and K-band (1.95–2.50 μm) are presented. The spectra were obtained with the 200-inch Hale telescope at Palomar mountain three days after the ring plane crossing of August 10, 1995. By inversion of the spectra, the vertical distribution of the scattering density is obtained as a function of latitude along the central meridian, for pressures ranging from about 10 to 600 mbar. At all latitudes, we find a vertical structure consisting of a stratospheric haze layer and a more dense upper tropospheric haze layer, with density minima both above and below the tropospheric layer. At northern midlatitudes, the upper tropospheric haze is located deeper into the atmosphere than at similar southern midlatitudes. This hemispherical asymmetry can be explained by seasonal influences. The largest scattering densities in the upper tropospheric haze layer are found at tropical latitudes, between about −10° and +15°.
Contributions of Na+ flux and the anoxic depolarization to adenosine 5'-triphosphate levels in hypoxic/hypoglycemic rat hippocampal slices.

Abstract A 10 min exposure of rat hippocampal slices to hypoxic/hypoglycemic medium decreased tissue adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP) levels. Hypoxia/hypoglycemia also caused an anoxic depolarization and essentially no recovery of the synaptically evoked population spike from CA1 region recorded 30 min after re-introduction of normoxic/normoglycemic medium. Removal of Ca 2+ or the addition of either the non-competitive N -methyl- d -aspartate antagonist dizocilpine maleate, the inorganic Ca 2+ channel antagonist Co 2+ ; or the Na + channel blocker tetrodotoxin to hypoxic/hypoglycemic medium improved recovery of the evoked population spike upon re-oxygenation. Dizocilpine maleate, Co 2+ , and tetrodotoxin spared ATP during exposure to hypoxia/hypoglycemia. In contrast, Ca 2+ -free medium facilitated recovery of the population spike but did not preserve ATP during hypoxia/hypoglycemia. Dizocilpine maleate, Co 2+ or dantrolene, when added to Ca 2+ -free medium, did not preserve ATP. Tetrodotoxin, when added to Ca 2+ -free medium, was effective in sparing ATP in hypoxic/hypoglycemic medium. To determine the effect of anoxic depolarization on ATP levels, hippocampal slices were collected just before and after the depolarization. There appeared to be an abrupt drop in ATP associated with the anoxic depolarization. We conclude that Na + influx plays a relatively larger role in ATP consumption during hypoxia/hypoglycemia than Ca 2+ influx. In addition, the anoxic depolarization imposes a large and rapid drop in ATP levels.
The blood-brain barrier in neuroimmunology: Tales of separation and assimilation

Neuroimmunology is concerned with the relations between the central nervous and immune systems and with the mechanisms that drive those relations. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) employs mechanisms that both separate and connect these two systems. In fact, the relative immune privilege of the central nervous system (CNS) is largely attributable to the BBB's ability to prevent the unregulated exchange of immune cells and their secretions between the CNS and blood. Having separated the two systems, the BBB then participates in mechanisms that allow them to influence, communicate, and interact with one another. Likewise, the BBB itself is influenced by immune events that are occurring in the periphery and in the CNS so that these three components (the BBB, the immune system, and the CNS) form neuroimmune axes that adapt to physiological and pathological conditions. To date, four major themes have emerged by which the BBB participates in these neuroimmune axes. The first of these four, the formation of the barrier, acts to separate the immune and central nervous systems. The other three themes provide mechanisms for re-establishing communication: response of the BBB to immunomodulatory molecules (e.g., prostaglandins, cytokines, chemokines, nitric oxide) secreted by immune and CNS cells; the controlled, regulated exchange of chemokines, cytokines, and immune cells between the CNS and the blood (i.e., transport across the BBB); the secretion of immunomodulatory molecules by the BBB, often in a polarized fashion. Taken together, these mechanisms reveal the BBB to be a dynamic, interactive, and adaptable interface between the immune system and the CNS, separating them on the one hand and fostering their interactions on the other hand, adjusting to physiological changes, while being a target for disease processes. This review examines specific examples by which the BBB plays an interactive, defining role in neuroimmunology.