cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SU-E-T-597: Composite IMRT Planning: How Does the Initial Plan Dose Distribution Affect the Boost Plan Optimization?

Purpose: To perform a dosimetric and radiobiological comparison of the composite prostate plans when the boost plan was optimized with and without knowledge of the initial dose distribution. Methods: Ten patients previously treated in our department were selected for this study. The planning target volume (PTV) included the prostate, seminal vesicles and pelvic lymph nodes (PTV1) while the prostate with margins was considered PTV2. All organs at risk (OAR) and target structures were contoured by the prescribing physician. The prescribed doses were 54Gy in 30 fractions to PTV1 and 78Gy to PTV2. All plans were optimized using the RayStation treatment planning system (TPS). Plans to deliver the prescribed dose to PTV1 were optimized first. Two boost plans and the respective composite plans were then created for each patient. First, the boost plan was optimized by treating the prescription of 24Gy to PTV2 as a standalone plan. Second, the boost plan for PTV2 was optimized taking into consideration the dose distribution of the initial plan. For each method the respective composite plans was created. The two final composite plans were compared by in terms of DVHs and isodose line distributions, as well as radiobiologically. Results: In terms of PTV2 coverage the two methods were very similar with negligible differences. However, differences were observed for the overall coverage of PTV1, seminal vesicles and penile bulb. For these structures the mean doses were higher in the case of the independent boost plan. Similar trend was observed for the doses to bladder and rectum but the differences were smaller. The dosimetric differences were patient (OAR) dependent. Conclusion: By including the initial dose distribution during boost plan optimization the final composite plan shoed that doses to most OAR can be reduced. The dosimetric differences are patient dependent and in some cases can be significant.
Accelerating incremental checkpointing for extreme-scale computing

Concern is beginning to grow in the high-performance computing (HPC) community regarding the reliability of future large-scale systems. Disk-based coordinated checkpoint/restart has been the dominant fault tolerance mechanism in HPC systems for the past 30 years. Checkpoint performance is so fundamental to scalability that nearly all capability applications have custom checkpoint strategies to minimize state and reduce checkpoint time. One well-known optimization to traditional checkpoint/restart is incremental checkpointing, which has a number of known limitations. To address these limitations, we describe libhashckpt, a hybrid incremental checkpointing solution that uses both page protection and hashing on GPUs to determine changes in application data with very low overhead. Using real capability workloads and a model outlining the viability and application efficiency increase of this technique, we show that hash-based incremental checkpointing can have significantly lower overheads and increased efficiency than traditional coordinated checkpointing approaches at the scales expected for future extreme-class systems.
Recent advances in organic electro-optic materials for ring micro-resonators and optical modulation

ABSTRACT Recently developed organic electro -optic materials have demonstrated large in creases in activity creating a drive towards utilizing organics in ring micro-resona tors and modulators. These materials a llow for extremely low drive voltages and fundamental response times within the terahertz region. Presen t synthetic efforts have effici ently incorporated molecules with large first molecular hyperpolarizabilities, E , into macromolecular systems producing unprecedented electro-optic coefficients, r 33 . Previously, incorporation of these large E molecules into macromolecular systems proved difficult due to phase separation or molecular aggregation within the processed films. Therefore, integration into workable devices was inconsistent and difficult. The new material systems however, have shown considerably enhanced film qualities, leading to improved device incorporation and fabrication. This paper will focus on current organic materials strategies and their incorporation into current ring micro-resonator devices and results. Keywords: Organic electro-optic materials, molecular first hyperpolarizability, pseudo-atomistic Monte Carlo calculations, Hyper-Rayleigh Scattering, density functional theory calculations
Measurement of cAMP in Thermomonospora curvata by anion exchange HPLC

Abstract A method for quantitation of bacterial cyclic AMP was developed, based on integrator peak height after anion exchange HPLC fractionation. The lower limit of sensitivity and standard deviation with 10 μl samples was 0.4 nmol/ml and ±3.1%, respectively. The presence of a wide variety of other nucleotides did not interfere with the assay. Total culture cyclic AMP production measured by the assay during exponential growth of the filamentous actinomycete, Thermomonospora curvata, was 10–20-fold higher on polymeric substrates such as pectin and cellulose compared to easily utilized sugars (glucose and cellobiose). Enzymatic degradation of cyclic AMP could also be measured by the HPLC method; T. curvata cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase initial reaction rates were linear for about 20 min and proportional to enzyme concentration in mixtures incubated at pH 6.5 and 52°C.
Detecting biophysical properties of a semi-arid grassland and distinguishing burned from unburned areas with hyperspectral reflectance

Abstract This paper examines the utility of hyperspectral remote sensing to detect fresh and dry biomass, water content and plant area index of burned and unburned grassland in southern California. Contrary to many previously published reports, the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI, a vegetation greenness index) was not a good indicator of any of these important biophysical properties in either the burned or unburned area, especially after regeneration. Rather, the water band index (WBI, an index of water status in vegetation) showed better promise of estimating these biophysical properties in this semi-arid ecosystem. Despite the post-regeneration similarities in visual and harvested values of these two areas, we found that the full range of hyperspectral reflectance in ‘visible to infrared’ (400–1000 nm) wavelengths when used in a cluster analysis can readily differentiate the burned and unburned areas. This demonstrates the utility of hyperspectral remote-sensing in mapping subtle features that may not be detectable from conventional remote-sensing indices (e.g. NDVI) alone.
Robust process capability indices

Many organizations are mandating the use of process capability indices to measure and reduce variability. Managers may find the use of such indices as unreliable when the interaction of the dependency structure and outliers mask potential assignable causes of variation. A monitoring procedure is proposed that effectively classifies a series' variability into three components: (1) the underlying correlation structure, (2) the outliers, and (3) the unexplained variance. Indices are proposed to distinguish these components. This approach can help a manager identify the appropriate corrective actions to be taken to reduce variability.
A microassay for the measurement of androgen receptors in human prostatic tissue

Abstract A microassay utilizing R 1881 (methyltrienolone) has been developed for the measurement of androgen receptor sites in the cytosol and nuclear extract of human prostatic tissue. Binding of R 1881 to the progesterone binding molecule in cytosol was eliminated by the addition of triamcinolone acetonide. Utilizing a six tube, single point assay, the number of binding sites estimated in nuclear extract averaged 95% of the number measured by a full 7 point Scatchard analysis; the number estimated by the microassay in cytosol averaged 91%. When the single point assay was applied to needle biopsy specimens (200 mg of tissue), the estimated number of binding sites in nuclei averaged 83% of the number measured in bulk tissue (2 grams) utilizing a 7 point Scatchard analysis; the number in cytosol estimated by the microassay on needle biopsy specimens averaged 73%. It is hoped that this technique may be useful in correlating receptor content with hormonal responsiveness in men with metastatic carcinoma of the prostate.
Compartmental analysis of the production ofJuncus roemerianus in a North Carolina salt marsh

Data obtained near Cape Lookout, North Carolina, during 1965 to 1968 on standing crop, growth rate, and longevity of above ground portions of needlerush,Juncus roemerianus, were synthesized into a three-compartment linear mathematical model. Analysis of field observations yielded average standing crops for live, dying, and deadJuncus of 344, 504, and 1,604 g dry wt m−2 respectively, and an annual production of 754 g dry wt m−2. The model, defined by equations below, duplicated the average standing crops and annual production and yielded seasonal cycles in the standing crops of the three compartments which explained much of the variation observed in these during the field work. TMP (air temperature in °C)=16.9+9.0×sine(2Π×t) d(live)/dt=2.3474×(1.000+0.745×sine(2Π×(t+0.104)))×X1−2.3395×(1.0+0.8×sine(2Π×(t+0.50)))×X1 d(dying)/dt=2.3395×(1.0+0.8×sine(2Π×(t+0.50)))×X1−1.640×(1.0+sine(2Π×(t+0.25)))×X2 d(dead)/dt=1.640×(1.0+sine(2Π×(t+0.25)))×X2−0.4853×2.8(TMP−18.9)/10.0 t is time in years measured from April 30; 1 year equals 2Π radians. Initial values for the three compartments on May 1 are 191, 583, and 1,690 g m−2 respectively.
Erratum to: Gastric Bypass Increases Ethanol and Water Consumption in Diet-Induced Obese Rats

Erratum to: Obes SurgDOI 10.1007/s11695-012-0749-2In the original publication, the institutional affiliationfor fourth, sixth, and ninth authors appears erroneouslyas Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA. Thecorrect institution is Pennsylvania State University College ofMedicine, Hershey, PA.
Characterization of the Dizinc Analogue of the Synthetic Diiron Protein DF1 Using ab Initio and Hybrid Quantum/Classical Molecular Dynamics Simulations

The structural and dynamical properties of the four α-helix bundle Due Ferri 1, which is a generic mimic of diiron proteins, have been explored using density functional theory (DFT) based and hybrid quantum/classical molecular dynamics (QM/MM) simulations. Four quantum mechanical (QM) representations of the active site have been employed in order to systematically assess the role of first and second shell interactions: (a) a 66-atom fragment of the active site comprising only first shell ligands, (b and c) two systems (78 and 86 atoms) containing different second shell hydrogen bonds, and (d) a 98-atom model including both the first and second shell residues. Two QM/MM partitioning schemes have been explored in order to explicitly consider the role of the whole protein environment: (a) a 54-QM-atom model in which only the first shell ligands are described at the DFT level, while the rest of the protein environment is taken into account at the MM level and (b) a 68-QM-atom model in which the first shell ...
Experimental evaluation of the primary damage process — neutron energy effects

Abstract Experimental evaluation of the neutron energy dependence of the primary damage state depends upon a number of theoretical concepts. This state can only be observed after low- or perhaps ambient-temperature, low-fluence irradiations. The primary recoil energy spectrum, which determines the character of the displacement cascades, can be calculated if dosimetry has provided an accurate neutron spectrum. A review of experimental results relating neutron-energy effects shows that damage energy or damage energy cross section has often been a reliable correlation parameter for primary damage state experiments. However, the forthcoming emphasis on higher irradiation temperatures, more complex alloys and microstructural evolution has fostered a search for additional meaningful correlation parameters.
Rate of avascular necrosis following proximal humerus fractures treated with a lateral locking plate and endosteal implant

Treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures remains challenging. The introduction of locking plates has renewed interest in treating these fractures with joint-preserving techniques rather than hemiarthroplasty, but high complication rates are still reported. Avascular necrosis is not solely dependent on the initial fracture pattern, but can also result from intraoperative and postoperative vascular insults. We describe a technique to minimize disruption of humeral head blood supply and maximize fracture fixation. A total of 34 patients with complex proximal humerus fractures were treated with a locking plate and endosteal implant through an anterolateral approach and followed for an average of 66 weeks to determine the rates of avascular necrosis. No patient suffered complete osteonecrosis (0%) and only one patient suffered partial necrosis (2.8%) of the humeral head. The length of the posteromedial hinge was not predictive of this complication. Use of the anterolateral approach and endosteal augment of a lateral locking plate can minimize avascular necrosis following proximal humerus fracture.
Crafting a Damage Control Plan: Lessons from Perrier

Companies as diverse as AT&T, Exxon, and Beech‐Nut have discovered that when a crisis occurs, rarely are a corporation's contingency plans designed well enough to effectively deal with the situation. In this case study of the Perrier crisis, a better job by the company's crisis management team could have saved both the company's and the product's reputation.
Deception Performance in Online Group Negotiation and Decision Making: The Effects of Deception Experience and Deception Skill

Deception in computer-mediated group Negotiation and decision making presents a variety of risks. Gaining a better understanding of online deception has important implications for both individuals and organizations. Despite the rapidly increasing number of online deception cases reported in recent years, extant deception research has not considered the context beyond individuals or small groups. Additionally, there has been a mismatch between the important role of individual characteristics of the deceiver in theory and the lack of empirical investigation of their impact in research. This study aims to assess deception performance in mid-sized online groups by building a model of individual differences in deception experience and deception skill. We conceptualize deception performance in terms of deception success and two other new constructs, namely survivability and productivity. The model has been tested with a dataset collected from a real-world online community. The results show that deception skill has a positive effect on deception success, but deception experience has a negative effect. Although deception experience and deception skill are found to have opposite effects on the success of deceivers, both contribute positively to the survivability of deceivers. The findings of this study have significant implications for future deception research in online group communication and negotiation.
Stimulated Raman pumping of C2− probed via resonant two-photon detachment

Abstract We demonstrate for the first time that stimulated Raman pumping (SRP) can be used to vibrationally excite gas-phase negative ions. Results are presented for C 2 − , in which stimulated Raman pumping excites a rotationally resolved transition between the ν = 0 and ν = 1 levels of the ground 2 Σ g + state; this excitation is monitored by resonant two-photon detachment through the excited B 2 Σ u + state. At least 35% conversion to the ν = 1 level was achieved in this study. It is expected that this method is quite generally applicable and will provide an excellent tool for the study of the vibrational spectroscopy of negative ions.
Total-energy study of hydrogen ordering in PdH x (0⩽ x ⩽1)

We studied total energies of various ordered structures of ${\mathrm{PdH}}_{\mathit{x}}$ (in which hydrogen occupies the octahedral sites within the fcc Pd lattice) using the pseudopotential method and a plane-wave basis within the local-density-functional approximation. The structures considered include the (420)-plane ordering of hydrogen atoms at different concentrations. For x\ensuremath{\ge}1/2 we found that the NiMo- and ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{4}$Mo (D${1}_{\mathit{a}}$)-type structures at x=1/2 and x=4/5, respectively, were energetically favored phases, in agreement with the superlattice reflections found in previous neutron-scattering measurements. For the intermediate concentrations, linear variation of the formation energy as a function of x in several (420)-ordered structures explained the observed short-range order. In contrast to an earlier proposal, we did not find the Fermi surface imaging effect responsible in this case. The overall energy variation in different phases indicates the importance of going beyond pairwise interactions between interstitial hydrogen atoms in this system. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
The G2 p38-Mediated Stress-Activated Checkpoint Pathway Becomes Attenuated in Transformed Cells

When human cells are stressed during G2, they are delayed from entering mitosis via a checkpoint mediated by the p38 kinase, and this delay can be modeled by the selective activation of p38 with anisomycin. Here, we report, on the basis of live-cell studies, that 75 nM anisomycin transiently (1 hr) activates p38 which, in turn, rapidly and completely blocks entry into mitosis for at least 4 hr in all primary, telomerase- or spontaneously immortalized (p53+ and pRB+) human cells. However, the same treatment does not delay entry into mitosis in cancer cells, or the delay in entering mitosis is shortened, even though it induces a similar transient and comparable (or stronger) activation of p38. Because the primary substrate of p38, the MK2 kinase, is also transiently (1-2 hr) activated by anisomycin in both normal and cancer cells, checkpoint disruption in transformed cells occurs downstream of MK2. Finally, observations on isogenic lines reveal that the duration of the stress checkpoint is shortened in cells lacking both p53 and pRb and that the constitutive expression of an active H-Ras oncogene in these cells further attenuates the checkpoint via an ERK1/2-dependent manner. Thus, transformation leads to attenuation of the p38-mediated stress checkpoint. This outcome is likely selected for during transformation because it confers the ability to outgrow normal cells under stressful in vitro (culture) or in vivo (tumor) environments. Our data caution against using cancer cells to study how p38 produces a G2 arrest.
Analysis of In-Scattering Effects on Laser Induced Incandescence Measurements Through Backwards Monte Carlo

Laser-induced incandescence (LII) measurements carried out on aerosols having a large particle volume fraction must be corrected for extinction between the energized aerosol particles and the detector, called signal trapping. While standard correction techniques have been developed for signal trapping by absorption, signal trapping due to scattering requires further investigation, particularly the case of highly anisotropic scattering. This paper examines this effect in an aerosol containing highly-aggregated soot particles by simulating LII signals using a backwards Monte Carlo analysis; the signals are then used to recover a pyrometric beam temperature and soot volume fraction. The results show that in-scattered radiation is a substantial component of the LII signal under high soot loading conditions, which can strongly influence the properties derived from these measurements. Correction techniques based on Bourguer’s law are shown to be effective in mitigating the effect of scatter on the LII signals.Copyright © 2007 by National Research Council Canada
Existence of solutions to rigid body dynamics and the Painlevé paradoxes

Abstract The existence of solutions of rigid body dynamics with impact, shock and Coulomb friction in the sense of measure differential inclusions is announced. For the first time, such results include the famous counter-examples of Painleve. The resolution of the paradox involves impulsive forces without collisions, and the use of the post-impact time in the formulation of Coulomb's law.
A review of Lecointea (Fabaceae: Swartzieae) in South America

Lecointea (Fabaceae: Swartzieae) is briefly reviewed in order to place in context a new species (L. marcano-bertii Barneby) from western Venezuela and a new Ecuadorian variety ofL. peruviana J. F. Macbr. (var.lasiogyne Barneby). The new taxa are discussed, the new species is illustrated, and a dispersal map and a key to the South American members ofLecointea are provided.
Rf-powered systems using steep-slope devices

Steep-slope tunnel devices promise new opportunities in ultra-low-power computing. This paper focuses on how steep-slope devices can enhance efficiencies of harvesting ambient RF energy and improve power efficiency of analog and digital computational blocks.
The Primary Care Imperative: Challenges and Opportunities for Medical Student Education in Psychiatry

Over the past 2 years many powerful forces have been aligning to encourage students to enter primary care careers. The Association of American Medical Colleges,’ the Council on Graduate Medical Education,’ the Pew Health Professions Commi~sion,~ and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Commission on Medical Education4 (among others) have all called for enhanced recruitment of medical students into the disciplines of family medicine, general pediatrics, and general internal medicine. Numerous governmental and private initiatives have been launched to enhance generalist recruitment throughout the span of medical education. These programs include loan forgiveness for students who commit to primary care careers, generalist “tracks,” community-based primary care experiences, a shifting of inpatient rotations to the outpatient setting, the use of health maintenance organizations as primary care teaching sites, legislatively defined generalist quotas, and
Non-circular shape of right ventricular outflow tract: a real-time 3-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography study.

Background— The shape of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) has been assumed to be circular. The aim of this study was to assess RVOT morphology using 3-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D TEE). Methods and Results— This prospective study included 114 patients who underwent 3D TEE. Two-dimensional (2D) TEE measured maximum and minimum RVOT diameters (RVOTD max and min) during a cardiac cycle. 3D TEE determined RVOT area (RVOTA) max and min, RVOT fractional area change, and RVOT shape index (RVOTSI; vertical/horizontal RVOTD). Cardiac output (CO) was calculated using 2D TEE, 3D TEE, and a Swan-Ganz catheter in 23 patients. All patients were classified into group 1 (RVOTSI ≤1) or group 2 (RVOTSI >1) based on the RVOT shapes. The mean RVOTSIs were 0.84±0.21(max) and 0.82±0.20 (min). Only 17 patients (14.9%) had circular RVOT (RVOTSI: 0.95–1.05); 82 patients (71.9%) were categorized into group 1 and 32 patients (28.1%) into group 2. 2D TEE, compared with 3D TEE, underestimated RVOTA max and min (both P <0.001). CO with 3D TEE had better agreement with CO with a catheter than CO with 2D TEE ( r =0.83 and 0.53, respectively). Conclusions— 3D TEE revealed that RVOT geometry was not generally circular but oval with 2 different types. Because of the detailed morphological information of RVOT, 3D TEE could provide more accurate assessment of CO than 2D TEE.
Intradermal Vaccination with Influenza Virus-Like Particles by Using Microneedles Induces Protection Superior to That with Intramuscular Immunization

Influenza virus-like particles (VLPs) are a promising cell culture-based vaccine, and the skin is considered an attractive immunization site. In this study, we examined the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of influenza VLPs (H1N1 A/PR/8/34) after skin vaccination using vaccine dried on solid microneedle arrays. Coating of microneedles with influenza VLPs using an unstabilized formulation was found to decrease hemagglutinin (HA) activity, whereas inclusion of trehalose disaccharide preserved the HA activity of influenza VLP vaccines after microneedles were coated. Microneedle vaccination of mice in the skin with a single dose of stabilized influenza VLPs induced 100% protection against challenge infection with a high lethal dose. In contrast, unstabilized influenza VLPs, as well as intramuscularly injected vaccines, provided inferior immunity and only partial protection (≤40%). The stabilized microneedle vaccination group showed IgG2a levels that were 1 order of magnitude higher than those of other groups and had the lowest lung viral titers after challenge. Also, levels of recall immune responses, including hemagglutination inhibition titers, neutralizing antibodies, and antibody-secreting plasma cells, were significantly higher after skin vaccination with stabilized formulations. Therefore, our results indicate that HA stabilization, combined with vaccination via the skin using a vaccine formulated as a solid microneedle patch, confers protection superior to that with intramuscular injection and enables potential dose-sparing effects which are reflected by pronounced increases in rapid recall immune responses against influenza virus.
Functional Anatomy and Computed Tomography Imaging of the Paranasal Sinuses

Standard radiographs are suboptimal in the display of the regional morphology in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, especially the ethmoid sinus. The preferred radiographic modality for the evaluation of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses is computed tomography (CT). Coronal CT imaging perpendicular to the bony palate affords the best display of the ostiomeatal channels and facilitates the surgeon's perception of this regional morphology because it most closely resembles the endoscopic view. The purpose of this article is to familiarize the reader with the regional anatomy of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, specifically the 14 anatomic structures the examiner must understand and systematically check in the evaluation of this morphologic area. A description of the most commonly found anatomic variations that influence the patency of the ostiomeatal channels as well as specific relationships between the paranasal sinuses, the orbits, and the intracranial compartment are also detailed. Although less helpful in the display of paranasal sinus chronic inflammatory disease, magnetic resonance imaging is beneficial in the diagnosis of fungal disease, neoplastic disease, and the display of inflammatory extension into the intracranial and intraorbital compartments.
Ideas That Hinder Evaluation— Debunking the Myths

This writer examines certain long-standing myths about teacher evaluation, sep arating fact from fallacy.
Growth and Patterning of ZnO Nanowires on Silicon and LiNbO3 Substrates

ZnO nanowires provide enormous advantages such as high aspect ratio, good field electron emission property and excellent molecular absorption and desorption characteristics in catalyst applications. Fabrication technologies with nanometer resolution will enable us to realize complex solid state devices with novel mechanical, electronic or optical functions. In this paper, two most popular substrates, silicon and LiNbO3, are chosen for the study on such integration issues. The influences from substrate, process procedures and etching solutions on the growth and patterning of ZnO nanowires are discussed. The results are quite promising.
Intraairway Feulgen-Positive Bodies in Hyaline Membrane Disease of the Newborn

In reviewing cases of hyaline membrane disease of the newborn (HMD) we have been struck by the occurrence of dense basophilic bodies within the airways. To further examine this phenomenon we reviewed lung histology from 246 consecutive stillborns and liveborns 24 hours or less of age autopsied at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Cases with autolysis or major malformations were excluded. We found the basophilic bodies in 61 (71%) of 87 infants with HMD. The material forming the bodies was Feulgen-positive and derived from necrotic respiratory epithelial cells. Pyknotic nuclei were extruded from necrotic cells and fused to form the bodies some of which reached a size of over 50 microns in maximum dimension. Among the 159 cases without HMD, only 13, all of which were among 81 cases of fetal pneumonia, showed small, 2-5 microns in diameter, intraairway Feulgen-positive bodies. The bodies in these cases of fetal pneumonia were derived from disintegrating leukocytes. The study shows that the formation of intraairway Feulgen-positive bodies derived from necrotic epithelial cells is a common finding in infants dying with HMD during the first day of life. The early development and frequent occurrence of the bodies lends support to the idea that respiratory epithelial cell necrosis is the cause of HMD of the newborn.
Response of Plant Productivity to Experimental Flooding in a Stable and a Submerging Marsh

Recent models of tidal marsh evolution rely largely on the premise that plants are most productive at an optimal flooding regime that occurs when soil elevations are somewhere between mean sea level and mean high tide. Here, we use 4 years of manipulative “marsh organ” flooding experiments to test the generality of this conceptual framework and to examine how the optimal flooding frequency may change between years and locations. In our experiments, above and belowground growth of Schoenoplectus americanus was most rapid when flooded about 40% of the time in a rapidly submerging marsh and when flooded about 25% of the time in a historically stable marsh. Optimum flooding durations were nearly identical in each year of the experiment and did not differ for above and belowground growth. In contrast, above and belowground growth of Spartina patens decreased monotonically with increased flooding in all years and at both sites, indicating no optimal flooding frequency or elevation relative to sea level. Growth patterns in both species suggest a wider tolerance to flooding, and greater biomass for a given flooding duration, in the rapidly deteriorating marsh.
ROS and NO trigger early preconditioning: relationship to mitochondrial KATP channel

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) are implicated in induction of ischemic preconditioning. However, the relationship between these oxidant signals and opening of the mitochondrial ATP-dependent potassium (K(ATP)) channel during early preconditioning is not fully understood. We observed preconditioning protection by hypoxia, exogenous H(2)O(2), or PKC activator PMA in cardiomyocytes subjected to 1-h ischemia and 3-h reperfusion. Protection was abolished by K(ATP) channel blocker 5-hydroxydecanoate (5-HD) in each case, indicating that these triggers must act upstream from the K(ATP) channel. Inhibitors of NO synthase abolished protection in preconditioned cells, suggesting that NO is also required for protection. DAF-2 fluorescence (NO sensitive) increased during hypoxic triggering. This was amplified by pinacidil and inhibited by 5-HD, indicating that NO is generated subsequent to K(ATP) channel activation. Exogenous NO during the triggering phase conferred protection blocked by 5-HD. Exogenous NO also restored protection abolished by 5-HD or N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester in preconditioned cells. Antioxidants given during pinacidil or NO triggering abolished protection, confirming that ROS are generated by K(ATP) channel activation. Coadministration of H(2)O(2) and NO restored PMA-induced protection in 5-HD-treated cells, indicating that ROS and NO are required downstream from the K(ATP) channel. We conclude that ROS can trigger preconditioning by causing activation of the K(ATP) channel, which then induces generation of ROS and NO that are both required for preconditioning protection.
Robust affine motion estimation in joint image space using tensor voting

Robustness of parameter estimation relies on discriminating inliers from outliers within the set of correspondences. In this paper, we present a method using tensor voting to eliminate outliers and estimating affine transformation parameters directly from covariance matrix of selected inliers without additional parameter estimation processing. Our approach is based on the representation of the correspondences in a decoupled joint image space and the use of the metric associated with the affine transformation. We enforce the metric property in a joint image space for tensor voting, detect several inlier groups corresponding distinct affine motions and directly estimate affine parameters from each set of inliers. The proposed approach is illustrated by a set of challenging examples.
A Kullback-Leibler View of Linear and Log-Linear Pools

Linear and log-linear pools are widely used methods for aggregating expert belief. This paper frames the expert aggregation problem as a decision problem with scoring rules. We propose a scoring function that uses the Kullback-Leibler (KL) divergence measure between the aggregate distribution and each of the expert distributions. The asymmetric nature of the KL measure allows for a convenient scoring system for which the linear and log-linear pools provide the optimal assignment. We also propose a “goodness-of-fit” measure that determines how well each opinion pool characterizes its expert distributions, and also determines the performance of each pool under this scoring function. We work through several examples to illustrate the approach.
Assessing the Stability of Social Planner Solutions in Multi-Participant Water Conflicts

The use of optimization techniques to identify socially optimal solutions to allocation problems is widely accepted in the water resources literature. For cases with multiple criteria and multiple decision makers (MC-MDM), techniques traditionally lump the decision makers (DM) into a single user and evaluate the criteria, thus not capturing the influence of power dynamics that occur between DMs. Through application of stability methods such as the power index, an alternative method for solving allocation problems, one can assess whether a decision rule is likely to be accepted based on the parties’ relative power. This work presents a method for applying the power index to MCMDM problems to determine the most stable decision rule. Since stability is concerned with minimizing the dissatisfaction of the most powerful party, stability can produce different outcomes from the conventional system-level optimization. This work presents this comparative analysis through a case study of the Caspian Sea resource allocation negotiation between five littoral states (Iran, Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan). Goal programming, compromise programming, and power index methods are employed to evaluate the best scheme for allocation of the Caspian Sea resources. Results show that optimal solutions, analyzed by social planner methods, may not be stable in practice, as certain parties may be too dissatisfied with their allocation to enter into an agreement. This finding has important policy implications as it justifies why stakeholders may not accept the socially optimal solution in practice, and underlies the necessity of considering solution stability in social planning and decision making.
Premature rupture of membranes and early mortality among triplets in the United States.

Abstract Objectives : We investigated the relationship between premature rupture of the membranes (PROM) and early mortality among triplets in the United States. Study design : Analysis was conducted on matched and linked triplet sets born to mothers in the United States between 1995 and 1997. The generalized estimating equation framework was used to generate odds ratios after capturing the effects of sibling correlations within triplet clusters. Results : Triplets exposed to PROM were twice as likely to experience stillbirth (OR=2.17, 95% CI [1.26–3.41]), neonatal death (OR=2.23, 95% CI [1.70–3.0]) and infant death (OR=2.21, 95% CI [1.72–2.85]), as compared to those who did not. The population-attributable risk for early mortality due to PROM was 11–12%. Conclusions : Triplets associated with PROM had a significantly higher level of early mortality than those without. Assuming a causal relationship, 11–12% of all early deaths among triplets in the United States are accounted for by PROM.
The Development of Cooperative Associations Between Animals and Bacteria: Establishing Détente Among Domains

SYNOPSIS. ditente = n.(fr.) the relaxation of tensions between two nations, usually through cooperation and negotiation. [The Random House Dictionary, 2nd Edition, 1987] Despite the ubiquitous occurrence of cooperative associations between animals and bacteria, there is little understanding of how these interactions arose, how they evolved, and how they persist. Thus, an extensive database concerning the influence of bacteria on developmental pathways is not yet available. However, in much the same way that mutually beneficial liaisons are created between nations with vastly different histories and cultures, it is likely that highly refined developmental mechanisms exist in which a type of detente is created to retain the integrity of the associations between the partners, both within and between generations. These developmental pathways would be responsible for insuring that a balance of cell growth is established and maintained among the community members, comprised of animal and microbial cells, such that neither form of pathogenesis, i.e., overgrowth (war) or aposymbiosis (isolation), ensues. This contribution examines aspects of how alliances with prokaryotes may have been integrated into the mechanisms and patterns of host animal developmental programs.
Efficient sensor/model based on-line collision detection for planetary manipulators

Manipulator safeguarding is a critical need for operations on planetary rovers. The computing environment on a Mars rover is extremely limited, which necessitates a highly efficient collision checking algorithm. We present such an algorithm that uses the oriented bounding box (OBB) and a primitive called the oriented bounding prism (OBP) to detect potential self-collisions and collisions with terrain objects sensed with the rover's onboard stereo cameras; the algorithm thus has both model-based and sensor-based components. We have implemented the algorithm on JPL's FIDO rover and have tested it under realistic field conditions. Performance analysis indicates this method is significantly faster than previously reported results in the literature, in addition to incorporating sensed geometry. The method is also being used on board NASA's twin Mars Exploration Rovers, which are scheduled to launch in 2003.
An explanation of fine structure observed in metastable peaks

Abstract The energy spread (and therefore peak width) of the daughter ion in a consecutive metastable decay reaction is, in general, somewhat less than for a single step reaction involving the same masses and energy. When several paths are possible between a parent ion and a daughter ion, the result is a superposition of two or more metastable peaks of different widths.
Uncertainty in projections of streamflow changes due to climate change in California

[1] Understanding the uncertainty in the projected impacts of climate change on hydrology will help decision-makers interpret the confidence in different projected future hydrologic impacts. We focus on California, which is vulnerable to hydrologic impacts of climate change. We statistically bias correct and downscale temperature and precipitation projections from 10 GCMs participating in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project. These GCM simulations include a control period (unchanging CO2 and other forcing) and perturbed period (1%/year CO2 increase). We force a hydrologic model with the downscaled GCM data to generate streamflow at strategic points. While the different GCMs predict significantly different regional climate responses to increasing atmospheric CO2, hydrological responses are robust across models: decreases in summer low flows and increases in winter flows, and a shift of flow to earlier in the year. Summer flow decreases become consistent across models at lower levels of greenhouse gases than increases in winter flows do.
Phosphorite in Georgia Continental Shelf Sediments

Rounded, polished phosphorite sand grains in Georgia continental shelf, beach, and estuarine sediments average 1 per cent of the total sediment. An amber and a black variety are present everywhere except in estuaries where only the black is present. The black color is due primarily to inclusions of pyrite and carbonaceous matter. The lack of amber grains in estuaries may reflect reducing conditions favoring pyrite formation. The phosphorite and quartz fractions of most samples are similar in size. This plus the high polish on phosphorite grains (which tumbling-barrel experiments show can be due to abrasion) indicate a probable detrital origin of the phosphorite. Shelf phosphorite must have been derived from Pleistocene river sources or outcropping phosphate-rich ancient sediments on the shelf, for present-day rivers are not carrying this material. The presence of phosphorite in beaches and estuaries indicates that much of these sands are derived by landward transport of sediments from the continental shelf.
Integrating evaluation into a program for increased utility and cost‐effectiveness

The most useful and possibly the cheapest form of evaluation would yield results coinciding with ongoing management procedures. While this kind of evaluation may never be fully realized, it is possible to provide a continuous stream of evaluative data and analysis by introducing evaluation into project management at its inception. This chapter outlines such an approach.
An industrial network flow information integration model for supply chain management and intelligent transportation

Industrial network flow involves three domains: infrastructure, individual subjects of movement, and planning and control of the movement. Examples include supply chain and intelligent transportation. These traditionally isolated domains can be digitally connected to enhance their performance. Digitization of the infrastructure provides real-time data to facilitate its operation, while digitally connecting the subjects to the infrastructure allows for tailored services and support to particular subjects. Connection of both to the enterprise information systems enables adaptive control for the application (e.g. logistics) at a global optimization level. Previous results in the field cover separate aspects of planning/routing, real-time monitoring, and trip support. Toward this end, a new highway-based subject-infrastructure-enterprise (SIE) information integration model using digital connection is proposed to the field of industrial network flow control for application to intelligent transportation and supply chain management. The SIE model supports industrial network flow control in a way comparable to an adaptive control panel administering an automated material handling system. In this metaphor, the global infrastructure becomes 'controllable' similar to factory conveyors and automated guided vehicles. This paper presents a conceptual design substantiated with information requirements analysis. An empirical experiment at locations in New York State shows the technical feasibility of the digital connection envisioned.
A note on development of Corti's organ

The structure and postnatal transformation of Kolliker's organ in the cat were studied by means of both light and electron microscopes. Kolliker's organ, which is located in the inner sulcus area of the cochlear duct during embryonic development of the kitten, appeared to undergo a major transformation during the first 30 days after birth. On the level of the organ as a whole the possible nature of this transformation is briefly discussed. On the cellular level, the transformation of this organ was found to involve a process of cellular autophagocytosis. Kolliker's organ consists of numerous tightly packed, tall columnar cells filling the inner sulcus. Autophagic vacuoles containing cell organelles were observed in these cells in all stages of transformation of the organ. Cellular autophagocytosis reduced the number of cells present in each section from approximately 50 in the newborn, to approximately 12 in the 30-day-old kitten. The apparent transformation of Kolliker's organ was observed as progressing from base to apex and from the limbus to the inner hair cell. The relationship of the tectorial membrane to Kolliker's organ and that of the tectorial membrane to the area in and around the inner hair cells are discussed.
Beyond Gaussian Processes: On the Distributions of Infinite Networks

A general analysis of the limiting distribution of neural network functions is performed, with emphasis on non-Gaussian limits. We show that with i.i.d. symmetric stable output weights, and more generally with weights distributed from the normal domain of attraction of a stable variable, that the neural functions converge in distribution to stable processes. Conditions are also investigated under which Gaussian limits do occur when the weights are independent but not identically distributed. Some particularly tractable classes of stable distributions are examined, and the possibility of learning with such processes.
Observational studies of Arctic Ocean ice‐atmosphere interactions 1

Abstract Our understanding of ocean‐ice‐atmosphere interactions in the Arctic on synoptic to interannual time scales is improving steadily through the use of observations from satellite remote sensing (visible, IR, and passive microwave), submarine sonar, airborne lidar, and drifting buoys. Effects on the summer ice conditions of the snow melt regime on sea ice and of synoptic‐scale circulation variability forcing variations in ice concentration are described. The characteristics of winter leads and their atmospheric associations also are discussed. The possible causes of fluctuations in ice export and their significance for North Atlantic salinity anomalies are examined. The findings are discussed within the overall context of the importance of polar ice and climate studies for analysis and detection of global climate change.
Oxidative dehydrogenation of isobutane over vanadia catalysts supported by titania nanoshapes

Support plays a complex role in catalysis by supported metal oxides and the exact support effect still remains elusive. One of the approaches to gain fundamental insights into the support effect is to utilize model support systems. In this study, we employed for the first time titania nanoshapes as the model supports and investigated how the variation of surface structure of the support (titania, TiO2) impacts the catalysis of supported oxide (vanadia, VOx). TiO2 truncated rhombi, spheres and rods were synthesized via hydrothermal method and characterized with XRD and TEM. These TiO2 nanoshapes represent different mixtures of surface facets including [1 0 1], [0 1 0] and [0 0 1] and were used to support vanadia. The structure of supported VOx species was characterized in detail with in situ Raman spectroscopy as a function of loading on the three TiO2 nanoshapes. Oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of isobutane to isobutene was used as a model reaction to test how the support shape influences the activity, selectivity and activation energy of the surface VOx species. It was shown that the shape of TiO2 support does not pose evident effect on either the structure of surface VOx species or the catalytic performance of surfacemore » VOx species in isobutane ODH reaction. Finally, this insignificant support shape effect was ascribed to the small difference in the surface oxygen vacancy formation energy among the different TiO2 surfaces and the multi-faceting nature of the TiO2 nanoshapes.« less