cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intertwinors on Functions over the Product of Spheres

We give explicit formulas for the intertwinors on the scalar functions over the product of spheres with the natural pseudo-Riemannian product metric using the spectrum generating technique. As a consequence, this provides another proof of the even order conformally invariant differential operator formulas obtained earlier by T. Branson and the present author.
Pitch discrimination of diotic and dichotic tone complexes: Harmonic resolvability or harmonic number?

Three experiments investigated the relationship between harmonic number, harmonic resolvability, and the perception of harmonic complexes. Complexes with successive equal-amplitude sine- or random-phase harmonic components of a 100- or 200-Hz fundamental frequency (f0) were presented dichotically, with even and odd components to opposite ears, or diotically, with all harmonics presented to both ears. Experiment 1 measured performance in discriminating a 3.5%-5% frequency difference between a component of a harmonic complex and a pure tone in isolation. Listeners achieved at least 75% correct for approximately the first 10 and 20 individual harmonics in the diotic and dichotic conditions, respectively, verifying that only processes before the binaural combination of information limit frequency selectivity. Experiment 2 measured fundamental frequency difference limens (f0 DLs) as a function of the average lowest harmonic number. Similar results at both f0's provide further evidence that harmonic number, not absolute frequency, underlies the order-of-magnitude increase observed in f0 DLs when only harmonics above about the 10th are presented. Similar results under diotic and dichotic conditions indicate that the auditory system, in performing f0 discrimination, is unable to utilize the additional peripherally resolved harmonics in the dichotic case. In experiment 3, dichotic complexes containing harmonics below the 12th, or only above the 15th, elicited pitches of the f0 and twice the f0, respectively. Together, experiments 2 and 3 suggest that harmonic number, regardless of peripheral resolvability, governs the transition between two different pitch percepts, one based on the frequencies of individual resolved harmonics and the other based on the periodicity of the temporal envelope.
Structural and functional comparisons of the Drosophila virilis and Drosophila melanogaster rough genes

Abstract We have isolated the homeobox gene rough (ro) from Drosophila virilis. Comparison of the predicted amino acid sequences of the D. melanogaster and D. virilis rough proteins reveals that domains of high conservation, including the homeodomain, are interspersed with highly diverged regions. Stretches of significant sequence conservation are also observed in the 5' promoter region and in the introns. The D. virilis rough gene rescues the rough mutant phenotype and is properly regulated when introduced into the D. melanogaster genome. Thus the rough protein as well as the cis-regulatory elements that ensure proper temporal and spatial regulation are functionally conserved between these Drosophila species.
Biodegradability, Cytotoxicity, and Physicochemical Treatability of Two Novel Perfluorooctane Sulfonate-Free Photoacid Generators

There is a need for effective, environmentally compatible photoacid generators (PAGs) for application in photolithography for microelectronic device fabrication. Perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFAS) used in conventional PAG formulations, such as perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), are under increasing scrutiny due to their widespread environmental distribution and toxicity. Recently, two new PFAS-free, PAG anions with semifluorinated sulfonate anions containing biomolecules (γ-butyrolactone or D-glucose groups) were successfully applied as PAGs. In this study, the biodegradation potential, cytotoxicity, and physicochemical treatability of the new PAG anions was evaluated. PFOS and perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS) were used as reference materials in all of the assays. The new PAGs were susceptible to partial degradation by microorganisms in aerobic activated sludge, and these were also readily removed by chemical oxidative treatment with Fenton's reagent [H(2)O(2)/Fe(II)]. In contrast, the compounds were resistant to microbial and chemical attack under reductive conditions as indicated by the low removal efficiencies observed with anaerobic biodegradation assays and chemical assays with zero-valent iron, respectively. The enhanced biodegradation potential and treatability make of the new PAGs attractive materials to resolve current issues related to the lithographic performance and environmental concerns.
Implementation of a new type of time-of-flight laser anemometer

A new time-of-flight (TOF) laser anemometer system utilizing a spatial lead-lag filter for bipolar pulse generation has been constructed and tested. This new TOF has been modified to enable measurements in turbulent flows near walls. Good results have been obtained as close as 100 microns from a surface, with a 140-mm focal length final lens. Lading's theory for the behavior of the measurement variance has been confirmed for this configuration.
Indirect immunofluorescence of oral lichen planus

Sections of lesional tissue from 6 patients who exhibited only oral lesions of lichen planus (LP) were incubated with autologous serum and studied immunopathologically for the presence of lichen planus specific antigen (LPSA). None of the specimens was positive for LPSA. Serum from the oral LP patients was subsequently incubated with allogeneic cutaneous LP lesional tissue sections, which resulted in the demonstration of LPSA in 2 of the 4 sera examined. These results suggest an immunologic relationship between cutaneous LP and at least some cases of oral LP.
Imidazo[4,5‐d]pyridazines. IV. Synthesis of 4,7 disubstituted derivatives and 1‐benzyl‐2‐substituted thio derivatives

Seventy-five new imidazo[4,5-d]pyridazines and three new imidazoles have been prepared for antitumor testing. Antitumor screening results are reported for thirty-five of these compounds. No significant activity was observed.
The Fallback Procedure for Evaluating a Single Family of Hypotheses

In testing multiple hypotheses, control of the familywise error rate is often considered. We develop a procedure called the "fallback procedure" to control the familywise error rate when multiple primary hypotheses are tested. With the fallback procedure, the Type I error rate (alpha) is partitioned among the various hypotheses of interest. Unlike the standard Bonferroni adjustment, however, testing hypotheses proceeds in an order determined a priori. As long as hypotheses are rejected, the Type I error rate can be accumulated, making tests of later hypotheses more powerful than under the Bonferroni procedure. Unlike the fixed sequence test, the fallback test allows consideration of all hypotheses even if one or more hypotheses are not rejected early in the process, thereby avoiding a common concern about the fixed sequence procedure. We develop properties of the fallback procedure, including control of the familywise error rate for an arbitrary number of hypotheses via illustrating the procedure as a closed testing procedure, as well as making the test more powerful via alpha exhaustion. We compare it to other procedures for controlling familywise error rates, finding that the fallback procedure is a viable alternative to the fixed sequence procedure when there is some doubt about the power for the first hypothesis. These results expand on the previously developed properties of the fallback procedure (Wiens, 2003). Several examples are discussed to illustrate the relative advantages of the fallback procedure.
Baryon resonance couplings in the reactions πN → πΔ and πN → ϱN: Comparison with theory and related reactions

Abstract We find good agreement between the results of our measurements of π N → πΔ and the predictions of broken SU((6) W and Melosh transformations. The D13(∼1700) is observed to be in a [70,1 − ] while the P33 (∼1700) is assigned to a [56,0 + ]. The signs of resonant amplitudes in KN → πΣ (1385), where reliably determined, are in agreement with our results. There is suprisingly good agreement between our ϱ N amplitudes and the corresponding photoproduction amplitudes.
Optimization-based feasibility study of an active thermal insulator

Abstract In this paper, we perform a preliminary optimization-based study to explore the potential effectiveness of the proposed Active Thermal Insulator (ATI). The ATI is a specially designed window that is expected to actively compensate for the heat gains or losses that occur through it. This window design has a thin-film photovoltaic (PV) module integrated into the outer pane, which powers thermoelectric (TE) units embedded in the frame of the window. TE units can enforce heat flow in a designated direction when supplied with electricity. In this study, the operation of the ATI window in summer has been considered. In summer, the TE units induce heat flow from the interior of the building envelope to the outside. This direction of heat transfer is opposite to that occurring naturally, and thereby minimizes the net heat gain of the room. Finned heat sinks were added to aid the heat transfer to and from the TE units. Our research seeks to design an ATI window that uses solar energy, thereby reducing the energy consumed by the air-conditioning system from the power grid. In this paper, we study the effect of TE unit selection on the ATI’s feasibility. We use optimization formulations to help describe the ATI’s performance. The results show the ATI design can offer a significant improvement over traditional windows, and that the selection of TE unit is critical to effectiveness of the design.
Cytokine signaling: Inhibitors keep cytokines in check

Some members of the CIS/SOCS/JAB/SSI family have been demonstrated to be cytokine-inducible inhibitors of cytokine signaling. Steps have now been made towards clarifying the biological function of two of these proteins, revealing that these inhibitors are essential for the correct maintenance of cytokine signaling.
Constraints on superpotentials in off-shell extended non-linear sigma-models☆

Abstract We derive constraints which the presence of extended susy implies in superpotentials and solve them for classes of N = 2 and N = 4 models. Renormalization of the superpotentials is discussed.
Vitamin E Increases Biomarkers of Estrogen Stimulation When Taken With Tamoxifen

Background Vitamin E (α-tocopherol acetate, AT) diminishes the antiproliferative effect of tamoxifen on breast cancer cells in vitro. Methods A prospective study of seven women taking tamoxifen for adjuvant therapy of breast cancer. Four who were already taking AT supplements had random core biopsies of the normal breast and again 30 days after discontinuing AT. Three who were not on AT had biopsies before and after adding AT 400 mg for 30 days. Biopsies were stained for estrogen receptor (ER) and the mitogen-activated protein kinase p-ERK. Tissue extracts were assayed for p-ERK by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum levels of α-tocopherol and tamoxifen were measured. Results Five out of seven patients had lower tamoxifen levels while taking AT, four of these went to subtherapeutic levels. Biopsies showed 23% of ductal cells were ER positive when patients were off AT and 70% on AT (P = 0.02). P-ERK staining was 21% off AT and 82% on AT. Five of seven patients had significantly higher tissue p-ERK when on AT. Conclusions Biomarkers of estrogen-stimulation (ER, progesterone receptor, and p-ERK) were higher in breast biopsies of women taking vitamin E supplements while taking tamoxifen. Findings suggest that vitamin E supplements may interfere with the therapeutic effects of tamoxifen.
Current-activated residual surface resistance in high temperature superconductors

Abstract A prominent and unusual feature of the microwave surface resistance of high temperature superconductors is a comparatively large “residual” resistance observed from a few degrees below the transition temperature, to the lowest temperatures. This resistance, which varies slowly with temperature, is also observed to vary with the rf field amplitude, sample quality, and frequency. Using a classical treatment for the rf field, we show that a surface resistance ∼ mohms arises from current-activated phase-slip resistivity. At low temperatures, this contribution to the surface resistance varies approximately as ωH rf /J c0 , where ω is the angular frequency, H rf is the rf field amplitude, and J c0 is the inter-granular critical current.
Cerebellum volume and eyeblink conditioning in schizophrenia

Although accumulating evidence suggests that cerebellar abnormalities may be linked to the symptoms and course of schizophrenia, few studies have related structural and functional indices of cerebellar integrity. The present study examined the relationship between the volume of specific subregions of the cerebellum and cerebellar function, as measured by eyeblink conditioning (EBC). Nine individuals with schizophrenia and six healthy comparison participants completed structural magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and a delay EBC procedure. Volumetric measurements were taken for the whole brain, whole cerebellum, cerebellar anterior lobules I-V and posterior lobules VI-VII. The schizophrenia group had smaller cerebellar anterior lobes and exhibited impaired EBC relative to the comparison group. In the comparison group, larger anterior volume correlated with earlier conditioned response onset latencies and increased amplitudes of the unconditioned blink response during paired trials (i.e., when the conditioned and unconditioned stimuli co-occurred). The findings that smaller anterior cerebellar volumes and EBC impairments were associated with schizophrenia are consistent with non-human studies showing that anterior cerebellar abnormalities are associated with deficits in delay EBC. The lack of a significant correlation between indices of EBC and cerebellar volume within the schizophrenia group suggests an aberrant relationship between cerebellar structure and function.
FabScalar: composing synthesizable RTL designs of arbitrary cores within a canonical superscalar template

A growing body of work has compiled a strong case for the single-ISA heterogeneous multi-core paradigm. A single-ISA heterogeneous multi-core provides multiple, differently-designed superscalar core types that can streamline the execution of diverse programs and program phases. No prior research has addressed the 'Achilles' heel of this paradigm: design and verification effort is multiplied by the number of different core types. This work frames superscalar processors in a canonical form, so that it becomes feasible to quickly design many cores that differ in the three major superscalar dimensions: superscalar width, pipeline depth, and sizes of structures for extracting instruction-level parallelism (ILP). From this idea, we develop a toolset, called FabScalar, for automatically composing the synthesizable register-transfer-level (RTL) designs of arbitrary cores within a canonical superscalar template. The template defines canonical pipeline stages and interfaces among them. A Canonical Pipeline Stage Library (CPSL) provides many implementations of each canonical pipeline stage, that differ in their superscalar width and depth of sub-pipelining. An RTL generation tool uses the template and CPSL to automatically generate an overall core of desired configuration. Validation experiments are performed along three fronts to evaluate the quality of RTL designs generated by FabScalar: functional and performance (instructions-per-cycle (IPC)) validation, timing validation (cycle time), and confirmation of suitability for standard ASIC flows. With FabScalar, a chip with many different superscalar core types is conceivable.
Impact of lateral flow and spatial scaling on the simulation of semi-arid urban land surfaces in an integrated hydrologic and land surface model

Understanding and representing hydrologic fluxes in the urban environment is challenging because of fine scale land cover heterogeneity and lack of coherent scaling relationships. Here, the impact of urban land cover heterogeneity, scale, and configuration on the hydrologic and surface energy budget (SEB) is assessed using an integrated, coupled land surface/hydrologic model at high spatial resolutions. Archetypes of urban land cover are simulated at varying resolutions using both the National Land Cover Database (NLCD; 30 m) and an ultra high-resolution land cover dataset (0.6 m). The analysis shows that the impact of highly organized, yet heterogeneous, land cover typical of the urban domain can cause large variations in hydrologic and energy fluxes within areas of similar land cover. The lateral flow processes that occur within each simulation create variations in overland flow of up to ±200% and ±4% in evapotranspiration. The impact on the SEB is smaller and largely restricted to the wet season for our semi-arid forcing scenarios. Finally, we find that this seasonal bias, predominantly caused by lateral flow, is displaced by a systematic diurnal bias at coarser resolutions caused by deficiencies in the method used for scaling of land surface and hydrologic parameters. As a result of this research, we have produced land surface parameters for the widely used NLCD urban land cover types. This work illustrates the impact of processes that remain unrepresented in traditional high-resolutions land surface models and how they may affect results and uncertainty in modeling of local water resources and climate. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The study of documentary segmentation through audio and text understanding

Video segmentation is the first and critical step in video indexing and retrieval. Previous work in this area has primarily focused on visual and audio information. In this paper, we investigate the segmentation of documentary video data through audio and text understanding. To segment a continuous documentary video stream into subtopic segments, music markers and domain-independent video speech text segmentation are explored. Experiments are presented and discussed.
Initiation of Spermatogenesis in Vitro1

The in vitro effect of gonadotropins (FSH, HCG) and vitamins (A, E, C) on spermatogenesis was studied in organ cultures of 4-day-old rat testes. The techniques employed permitted long-term maintenance of basic tissue structure and survival of primitive germ and supporting cells. Addition of NIH-FSH-S-1 to the culture medium, in concentrations of 20, 50 or 100 μg/ml, resulted in changes of supporting cells compatible with maturation; however, formation of more mature germinal cells from primitive type A spermatogonia was not induced. Similar changes were produced by HCG (Follutein, Squibb) in a concentration of 100 μ/ml. Lower doses (20 or 50 μ/ml) had no effect. Differentiation of the germinal epithelium up to the stage of primary spermatocytes proceeded when the culture medium contained vitamins A (12 μ/ml), C (50 μg/ml) and E (120 Mg/ml). These data indicate that spermatogenesis can progress in vitro from the primitive germinal cell to the stage of primary spermatocytes in the absence of gonadotropins, ...
Semi-automatic discrimination of normal tissue and liver cancer lesions in contrast enhanced x-ray CT-scans

In this paper we present a set of 3D-rigid motion invariant texture features. We experimentally establish that when they are combined with mean attenuation intensity differences the new augmented features are capable of discriminating normal from abnormal liver tissue in arterial phase contrast enhanced X-ray CT---scans with high sensitivity and specificity. To extract these features CT-scans are processed in their native dimensionality. We experimentally observe that the 3D-rotational invariance of the proposed features improves the clustering of the feature vectors extracted from normal liver tissue samples.
Treatment-related improvement in neuropsychological functioning in suicidal depressed patients: Paroxetine vs. bupropion

Neuropsychological dysfunction is associated with risk for suicidal behavior, but it is unknown if antidepressant medication treatment is effective in reducing this dysfunction, or if specific medications might be more beneficial. A comprehensive neuropsychological battery was administered at baseline and after 8 weeks of treatment within a randomized, double-blind clinical trial comparing paroxetine and bupropion in patients with DSM-IV Major Depressive Disorder and either past suicide attempt or current suicidal thoughts. Change in neurocognitive performance was compared between assessments and between medication groups. Treatment effects on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Scale for Suicide Ideation were compared with neurocognitive improvement. Neurocognitive functioning improved after treatment in all patients, without clear advantage for either medication. Improvement in memory performance was associated with a reduction in suicidal ideation independent of the improvement of depression severity. Overall, antidepressant medication improved neurocognitive performance in patients with major depression and suicide risk. Reduced suicidal ideation was best predicted by a combination of the independent improvements in both depression symptomatology and verbal memory. Targeted treatment of neurocognitive dysfunction in these patients may augment standard medication treatment for reducing suicidal behavior risk.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of a Television Campaign to Promote Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Among the Elderly

Abstract Background The U.S. policy goals regarding influenza vaccination coverage rate among the elderly include the increase in the coverage rate and the elimination of disparities across racial/ethnic groups. Objective To examine the potential effectiveness of a television (TV) campaign to increase seasonal influenza vaccination among the elderly. Methods We estimated the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER, defined as incremental cost per additionally vaccinated Medicare individual) of a hypothetical nationwide TV campaign for influenza vaccination compared with no campaign. We measured the effectiveness of the nationwide TV campaign (advertised once a week at prime time for 30 seconds) during a 17-week influenza vaccination season among four racial/ethnic elderly groups (N=39 million): non-Hispanic white (W), non-Hispanic African American (AA), English-speaking Hispanic (EH), and Spanish-speaking Hispanic (SH). Results The hypothetical campaign cost was $5,960,000 (in 2012 US dollars). The estimated campaign effectiveness ranged from −1.1% (the SH group) to 1.42% (the W group), leading to an increased disparity in influenza vaccination among non-Hispanic white and non-Hispanic African American (W-AA) groups (0.6 percentage points), W-EH groups (0.1 percentage points), and W-SH groups (1.5 percentage points). The estimated ICER was $23.54 (95% confidence interval $14.21–$39.37) per additionally vaccinated Medicare elderly in a probabilistic analysis. Race/ethnicity-specific ICERs were lowest among the EH group ($22.27), followed by the W group ($22.47) and the AA group ($30.55). The nationwide TV campaign was concluded to be reasonably cost-effective compared with a benchmark intervention (with ICER $44.39 per vaccinated individual) of a school-located vaccination program. Break-even analyses estimated the maximum acceptable campaign cost to be $14,870,000, which was comparable to the benchmark ICER. Conclusions The results could justify public expenditures on the implementation of a future nationwide TV campaign, which should include multilingual campaigns, for promoting seasonal influenza vaccination.
An audit of results of a no-drainage practice policy after hepatectomy

Abstract Background: It was hypothesized that routine operative drainage is unnecessary for elective hepatic resection. Methods: A review was made of the clinical records of patients undergoing liver resection at a tertiary referral hepatobiliary surgery center since the conclusion in April of 1994 of our previous randomized drainage trial. The main outcome measures were operative drainage versus no operative drainage assessed for possible association with diagnoses, extent of hepatectomy, hospital course, and postoperative radiologic percutaneous drainage procedures. Results: Of 1,165 patients, 184 were operatively drained with closed drains according to specific practice criteria and 981 were not subject to operative drainage. Patients who were not operatively drained had length of stay (10.1 days), mortality (2%), and complication rate (34%) comparable with the nondrained patients in the previous randomized trial. Ten percent of these patients required postoperative percutaneous drainage. Patients who were operatively drained were a group who were at higher risk for biliary leakage or infections and consequently had a significantly longer hospital stay, greater mortality, higher complication rate, and required a greater number of percutaneous abdominal drainages. Conclusions The 84% of patients not operatively drained had no greater adverse outcome. After hepatic resection, routine drainage of the abdomen is unnecessary.
Design optimization of wedge-shaped lensed fibers for fiber-laser coupling: Fresnel reflection and non-Gaussian mode effects

Two approaches, i.e., a diffraction model considering Fresnel reflection and a paraxial beam propagation method are utilized to optimize the design of wedge-shaped lensed fibers for coupling between laser diodes of highly asymmetrical beam and single-mode fibers. It is demonstrated for the first time that, in contrast to the prevailing view, the non-Gaussian fiber-mode shape modification by the wedged fiber tip greatly reduces the coupling efficiency when the wedge angle is relatively large, while the Fresnel reflection is found to play an insignificant role. The fundamental cause of the non-Gaussian shape effect is fully explored and, consequently, a novel design is proposed to suppress this effect and increase coupling efficiency. Moreover, the novel design is relatively simple, and it does not complicate the fiber tip fabrication process.
Fungal Opportunistic Infections in HIV Disease

Fungal pathogens can lead to many of the complications seen in advanced HIV disease and are commonly identified in HIV-infected populations with decreased immune function. Common fungal organisms affecting individuals with AIDS include Cryptococcus neoformans, various Candida species, and Histoplasma capsulatum. While infection with these organisms can be fatal, appropriate identification and management of the condition can result in reduced mortality and the opportunity for effectivemanagement of HIV disease with highly active antiretroviral therapy. This article describes the clinical presentation and treatment of 3 fungal infections common in the immunocompromised individual with AIDS. Current antifungal therapy for themanagement of these infections is discussed. In addition, the role of newer antifungal agents in the setting of these conditions is reviewed.
Adaptive tracking of angular velocity for a planar rigid body with unknown models for inertia and input nonlinearity

The problem of a planar rigid body, with unknown rotational inertia and an unknown input nonlinearity, tracking a desired angular velocity trajectory is addressed using adaptive feedback control. First, an adaptive controller is developed for tracking a desired angular velocity command, assuming linearly entering control. Sufficient conditions on the command signal for estimating the inertia are given. To account for an unknown input nonlinearity, a piecewise-linear approximation of the nonlinearity is inverted to obtain improved angular velocity tracking and inertia identification. Finally, a direct adaptive algorithm, incorporating feedback linearization is proposed, and Lyapunov analysis is used to show convergence of the angular velocity and inertia estimate errors. The approach is validated by experimental implementation.
Living in a house of cards: re‐evaluating CD8+ T‐cell immune correlates against HIV

The Merck STEP and the Thai RV144 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vaccine trials confirmed that we still have a long way to go before developing a prophylactic HIV vaccine. The main issue at hand is that we have yet to identify an immunological correlate of protection against HIV. While many question the T-cell-based approach towards vaccine development, it is likely that T cells will be a necessary part of any vaccine strategy. CD8(+) T cells remain an attractive option because of their ability to specifically recognize and eliminate virally infected host cells. In this review, we recapitulate the evidence for CD8(+) T cells as an immunological correlate against HIV, but more importantly, we assess the means by which we evaluate their antiviral capacity. To achieve a breakthrough in the domain of T-cell-based HIV vaccine development, it has become abundantly clear that we must overhaul our system of immune monitoring and come up with a 'rational' tactic to evaluate the efficacy of HIV-specific CD8(+) T cells.
Management of obesity in diabetes mellitus.

A primary goal of treatment in obese individuals with NIDDM is weight loss and maintenance. Obesity is a precipitating factor for the development of NIDDM in individuals who are genetically at risk. A variety of weight-loss regimens are available to match the specific needs and lifestyles of individuals. Hypocaloric high-fiber diets have been found to be effective in achieving weight loss, as well as aiding in glycemic and lipid control. very low calorie diets, administered under medical supervision, are useful for obese NIDDM patients with 18-55 kilograms of weight to lose. Lifestyle education appears to be an important element of any successful weight loss program.
Second-harmonic generation in metal oxide/ormosils nanocomposites derived from sol-gel processing

ABSTRACTNanocomposites of Ormosis containing metal oxides, such as niobates, titanates and zirconates, were prepared by sol-gel processing. The materials were hydrolyzed partially and were dried in air atmospherefor appropriate periods. Afterwards, the materials were heat-treated between 200° and 450°C for 2 days in pure oxygen. The final bulk samples are transparent in infrared and visible ranges. X-ray diffraction patterns showed that these samples did not have any crystalline phases after heating up to 200°C. Using a Nd:YAG laser of 1.064 jtm wavelength, second harmonic generation, of green light (0.532 j.im), wasobserved in these metal oxides I Ormosils nanocomposites. The refractive index and other optical properties of the metal oxides I Ormosils were also measured. The microstuctures of these samples wereexamined by transmission electron microscopy. 1. INTRODUCTION Second harmonic generation (SHG) was first observed in single crystal quartz by Franken and coworkers1 in 196 1 . Overthe past two decades, this field has developed into a new branch of science2.
Nine lives: plasticity among T helper cell subsets

The division of labor among two types of T helper (Th) subsets, first described over 20 yr ago, has been buffeted by the discovery of new subsets and new cytokines that can be coaxed out of T cells with increasing disregard for the subset of origin. Although Th17 cells and regulatory T (T reg) cells are widely accepted subsets, and others are being proposed, their plasticity is difficult to reconcile with the definitions of Th subsets as put forth in the initial description of Th1 and Th2 cells. A deeper molecular context will be required to reconcile the ever-increasing complexity of effector T cells.
From atomic clocks and gyroscopes to human lung imaging: the improbable course of DoD-supported research on optically-polarized spins

Summary form only given. Starting in the 1960's, the DoD (mostly AFOSR) began to support work on optical pumping in both academia and industry. The original rationale was to perfect high-quality atomic frequency standards, based on optically pumped Rb or Cs gas cells. This led to the successful development of practical atomic clocks that are widely used today, for example, in GPS satellites. Optically pumped magnetometers were another successful product of this research. A less successful goal of the research was to develop inexpensive nuclear magnetic resonance gyroscopes, based on polarized noble gas nuclei. That line of development was in direct competition with laser gyroscopes, which eventually became the technology of choice. However, the basic research and development involved in studies of spin-exchange polarization of noble-gas nuclei led to the development of magnetic resonance imaging of human lungs with laser polarized He-3 and Xe-129. The research was particularly successful because the AFOSR was willing to permit basic research on seemingly academic topics (for example light shifts, laser snow, and various relaxation phenomena) that turned up as practical goals were pursued. With benefit of hindsight, many of these "academic" topics turned out to have substantial practical relevance.
A NEW EUBAENINE, GOLEREMYS MCKENNAI, GEN. ET SP. N., (BAENIDAE: TESTUDINES) FROM THE PALEOCENE OF CALIFORNIA

Abstract The skull of a new turtle from the Tiffanian (Paleocene) of the Goler Formation, Kern County, California is the first confirmed baenid from the Pacific slope of North America. Goleremys mckennai, gen. et sp. n., is represented by a nearly complete skull that shares two weak apomorphies with the latest Cretaceous and Paleocene genera, Stygiochelys and Palatobaena. The new genus appears to be the sister taxon of those eubaenine genera.
Position paper: From interest to usefulness with BlockPy, a block-based, educational environment

As block-based environments are used for more mature audiences, the environments must mature themselves. Based on holistic theories of academic motivation, this means making the environment present itself as both interesting and useful, without sacrificing pedagogical power and scaffolding. We present Data Science as a potential context that satisfies all of these constraints, and describe our new block-based programming environment for education that supports data science from day one: BlockPy, available at http://think.cs.vt.edu/blockpy/. BlockPy features a number of powerful, authentic features meant to promote transfer for students to conventional environments as they progress. This includes mutual language translation and interactive feedback, but also powerful tools for getting real-world data and visualizing it. As we have developed the tool, we have identified a number of major research questions that should be answered in order to determine the validity of our hypothesis and the potential of our approach: in particular, how can this environment and context support educators and diverse learners as they progress into conventional environments.
Does accounting for uncertain tax benefits provide information about the relation between book-tax differences and earnings persistence?

Purpose – This study aims to use research setting provided by the implementation of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation 48 (FIN48) to help develop a further understanding of large positive book–tax differences (LPBTD) and their relationship with earnings persistence. Extant literature indicates that the tax information provided in financial statements, such as large book–tax differences, is useful for detecting earnings management and signals less persistent future earnings. However, more information is needed about the causes of large book–tax differences and their abilities to signal the differences in earnings persistence (Blaylock et al., 2012). Design/methodology/approach – In the first step, temporary book–tax differences are ranked by quintiles based on the approach in Hanlon’s (2005) study and the highest quintile in the sample observations are designated as large positive temporary book–tax differences (LPBTD). In the second step, differences in the persistence of earnings for hig...
The Bank Secrecy Act: Considerations for Continuing Banking Relationships after the Filing of a Suspicious Activity Report

Law enforcement has a vested interest in catching alleged money launderers. Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) filed by financial institutions are a useful tool in this endeavor and can potentially direct law enforcement to criminal enterprises. But SARs are just that — reports of suspicious activity. A financial institution will not generally conduct a complex investigation of every SAR it files; there are far too many reports for that. But financial institutions face a dilemma that has not been solved via the courts or academia: despite the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) safe harbor provision, filing a SAR does not excuse a financial institution from liability for continuing to transact business with a client. The institution may in effect be aiding and abetting a criminal if it continues to transact business with an alleged money launderer. But closing the account would likely tip off the alleged wrongdoer that his or her suspicious activity has been spotted, thereby thwarting an otherwise golden opportunity for investigators.This Article first reviews the BSA and its suspicious activity reporting requirements, as well as the safe harbor provision shielding a financial institution from liability for filing these reports. The Article reviews case-law and statutory definitions of aiding and abetting, and distinguishes “aiding and abetting” legal theory from “conspiracy.” The Article then discusses the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering’s relevant recommendations on bank liability for tipping off a client. The Article concludes that it is unlikely that a bank will be held liable for conducting business with a client it only suspects of criminal activity, as long as a bank has no actual knowledge of unlawful behavior. Because this difference can oftentimes be subtle, a financial institution should be careful to document these ongoing relationships and apply special due diligence when appropriate.
Synthesis of Z-Alkenyl Phosphorus Compounds through Hydroalumination and Carbocupration of Alkynyl Precursors

The stereocontrolled synthesis of Z-alkenylphosphine-borane complexes is easily accomplished via the hydroalumination or carbocupration of alkynyl precursors. Z/E ratios are generally higher than 95/5. These reactions are stereocomplementary to our olefination approach.
Abstract 2514: CSPG4 as a target of antibody-based immunotherapy for malignant mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an aggressive tumor, resistant to conventional therapies, with median survival of 1 year from diagnosis. The lack of effective therapies available prompted us to implement antibody-based immunotherapy against novel targets and to investigate possible synergies with chemotherapy on MM. CSPG4 is involved in the onset and progression of melanoma and other tumors, as well as in neo-angiogenesis. CSPG4-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAb) have shown anti-tumor effects in both preclinical and clinical trials of melanoma. We hypothesized that targeting CSPG4 with a CSPG4-specific mAb would have therapeutic efficacy against MM. We found that chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan 4 (CSPG4) was aberrantly expressed in 6 out of 8 MM cell lines and in 24 out of 40 MM biopsies, with minimal expression in surrounding non-malignant cells. The expression of CSPG4 in MM was higher upon engagement of extracellular matrix components (ECM) and was associated with increased MM cell viability and motility. Silencing of CSPG4 expression by siRNAs supported this functional significance of CSPG4 in MM. Consistently, the CSPG4-specific mAb TP41.2 inhibited MM cell attachment to the ECM, resulting in decreased phosphorylation of FAK and AKT, decreased expression of cyclin D1 and apoptosis. Moreover, TP41.2 significantly reduced MM cell motility, migration and invasiveness, and inhibited MM growth in soft agar. TP41.2 prevented the outgrowth of human MM tumors in SCID mice and inhibited the growth of established MM xenografts, resulting in significantly extended survival of tumor-bearing mice. These results represent a novel approach for CSPG4 mAb-based immunotherapy of MM. Combinatorial strategies with chemotherapeutic agents and with mAbs targeting c-Met related receptor are ongoing, aimed at translating CSPG4-specific mAb into clinical setting. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2514. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-2514
Limitations in the Use of Small-Length Flexural Pivot in a Pseudo-Rigid-Body Model

This paper investigates the effective use of the pseudo-rigid-body model (PRBM) of a small-length flexural pivot (SLFP), examining its very definition, and providing helpful guidelines in the context of a compound compliant beam composed of both compliant and rigid segments. Traditionally, for convenience in modeling, the pseudo-rigid-body model of the small-length flexural pivot assumes the characteristic pivot to be placed at the center of the SLFP. It is also suggested that the length of the adjacent rigid segment is ten or more times larger than the length of the compliant segment. In recent times, a growing interest has been expressed to test this assumption and learn more about its limitations. This paper investigates the performance of the PRBM of the SLFP, for initially straight and initially curved compound compliant beams by varying the compliant to rigid segment length ratio. The error, defined by comparing the PRBM deflections with those obtained from the closed-form elliptic integral method, may be assigned an acceptable value in determining the limit value of the segment length ratio. Plots of the maximum deflection that may be obtained within an error limit of 3%, for various segment length ratios of a fixed-free, compound compliant beam are provided.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Complement-fixation with small volumes of reagents; application to a Treponema pallidum complement-fixation test for syphilis (tpcf 50).

The use of complement-fixation as a research or diagnostic tool depends, among other factors, on the availability of antigens. When antigen is scarce or expensive, the full potential of the complement-fixation test may not be realized. The application of the Treponema pallidum complement-fixation (TPCF) test' has in part been limited by the cost of the antigen per test. To overcome this limitation, the use of smaller amounts of antigen in a complement-fixation test using small volumes was considered. In the interests of practicability and reproducibility, it seemed desirable to use a technic that would require only conventional glassware and equipment. For these reasons the plate method as used in viral diseases and the micro method proposed by Eckert and his associates were not investigated. The author's purpose in this paper is to describe a complement-fixation test that uses a final volume of 0.125 ml. and its application to a Treponema pallidum complement-fixation test for syphilis designated as tpcf 50. Using a period of fixation in a water-bath, the test is completed the same day. I t has been possible to achieve an approximately 8-fold increase in the number of doses of antigen over that obtained by the use of the original TPCF test. The results obtained with this new procedure in comparison with other serologic tests are presented and discussed.
Fast inversion of the simplicial Bernstein mass matrix

We consider the mass matrix arising from Bernstein polynomials as finite element shape functions. In particular, we give an explicit formula for its eigenvalues and exact characterization of the eigenspaces in terms of the Bernstein representation of orthogonal polynomials. We then derive a fast algorithm for solving linear systems involving the element mass matrix. After establishing these results, we describe the application of Bernstein techniques to the discontinuous Galerkin finite element method for hyperbolic conservation laws, obtaining optimal complexity algorithms. Finally, we present numerical results investigating the accuracy of the mass inversion algorithms and the scaling of total run-time for the function evaluation needed in DG time-stepping.
Effect of Tuiyin decoction combined with NB-UVB in the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris and the influence on expression levels of related cytokines in peripheral blood

OBJECTIVE To investigate the curative effect of Tuiyin decoction combined with narrow-band ultraviolet B(NBUVB)in the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris and the influence on the expression levels of IL-2,INF-γ,IL-4,IL-10,IL-17,IL-23 of peripheral blood.METHODS 90patients with medium/severe psoriasis vulgaris were divided into treatment group,control groupⅠand control groupⅡ.Treatment group was treated with Tuiyin decoction by oral administration,bid,with NB-UVB local irradiation,2times a week.Control groupⅠ was treated with Tuiyin decoction only,and control groupⅡwas treated withNB-UVB local irradiation only,and the therapeutic methods were the same with treatment group.All groups were treated for12weeks,and another 30peoples were chosen as healthy control group.In 4th,8th,12th week,before and after treatment,PASI scores were recorded respectively.Meanwhile,clinical curative effects were evaluated,and IL-2,INF-γ,IL-4,IL-10,IL-17,IL-23levels of healthy control group and patients with psoriasis were determinated.RESULTS After treatment,PASI score of treatment group was(1.91±1.12),control groupⅠ(4.63±1.36),control groupⅡ(5.35±1.54),and compared with two control groups,the difference had statistical significance(P0.01).The effective rate of treatment group was 96.7%,control groupⅠ73.3%and control groupⅡ66.7%,compared with two control groups,the difference had statistical significance(P0.05or P0.01).The difference of IL-2,INF-γ,IL-4,IL-10,IL-17,IL-23levels of treatment group and IL-2,INF-γ,IL-17,IL-23levels of control groupⅠandⅡ,compared with those before treatment,was statistically significant(P0.01);Compared with two control groups,the difference of above indicators of treatment group had statistical significance(P0.01);IL-2,INF-γ,IL-17,IL-23levels of treatment group,control groupⅠandⅡ were positively correlated with PASI scores,and IL-4and IL-10levels of treatment group showed negative correlation with PASI scores.CONCLUSION Effect of Tuiyin decoction combined with NBUVB in the treatment of patients with psoriasis vulgaris is significant,possibly by reducing expression levels of IL-2,INF-γ,IL-17,IL-23which are related with Th1and Th17cells in serum of patients,and increasing expression levels of IL-4,IL-10related with Th2cells in the treatment of psoriasis.
The conundrum of charitability: reassessing tax exemption for hospitals.

Tax exemption is an ancient, honorable and expensive tradition. Tax exemption for hospitals is all of these three, but it also places in sharp focus a fundamental problem with tax exemption in general. Organizations can retain their tax exemption while changing circumstances or expectations undermine the rationale that led to the exemption in the first place. Hospitals are perhaps the best example of this problem. The dramatic changes in the health care environment have eliminated most of the characteristics of a hospital that originally persuaded the citizenry to grant it an exemption. Hospitals have entered into competition with tax-paying businesses, and have increasingly behaved like competitive actors. Such conduct may well be beneficial, but it does not follow that tax exemption is appropriate. Rather than an undifferentiated subsidy, a shift to focused goals will provide charitable hospitals with the opportunity and incentive to "do the right thing."