cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Half-minute-scale atomic coherence and high relative stability in a tweezer clock.

The preparation of large, low-entropy, highly coherent ensembles of identical quantum systems is fundamental for many studies in quantum metrology1, simulation2 and information3. However, the simultaneous realization of these properties remains a central challenge in quantum science across atomic and condensed-matter systems2,4–7. Here we leverage the favourable properties of tweezer-trapped alkaline-earth (strontium-88) atoms8–10, and introduce a hybrid approach to tailoring optical potentials that balances scalability, high-fidelity state preparation, site-resolved readout and preservation of atomic coherence. With this approach, we achieve trapping and optical-clock excited-state lifetimes exceeding 40 seconds in ensembles of approximately 150 atoms. This leads to half-minute-scale atomic coherence on an optical-clock transition, corresponding to quality factors well in excess of 1016. These coherence times and atom numbers reduce the effect of quantum projection noise to a level that is comparable with that of leading atomic systems, which use optical lattices to interrogate many thousands of atoms in parallel11,12. The result is a relative fractional frequency stability of 5.2(3) × 10−17τ−1/2 (where τ is the averaging time in seconds) for synchronous clock comparisons between sub-ensembles within the tweezer array. When further combined with the microscopic control and readout that are available in this system, these results pave the way towards long-lived engineered entanglement on an optical-clock transition13 in tailored atom arrays. A tweezer clock containing about 150 88Sr atoms achieves trapping and optical excited-state lifetimes exceeding 40 seconds, and shows relative fractional frequency stability similar to that of leading atomic clocks.
Performance Evaluation of Basic Turbo Roundabouts as an Alternative to Conventional Double-Lane Roundabouts:

Since their introduction in the late 1990s, basic turbo roundabouts have made a great success in several European countries. Researchers, however, have been unable to reach a general consensus on t...
Automated analysis of medial gastrocnemius muscle-tendon junction displacements in heathy young adults during isolated contractions and walking using deep neural networks.

Abstract Background and objective Direct measurement of muscle-tendon junction (MTJ) position is important for understanding dynamic tendon behavior and muscle-tendon interaction in healthy and pathological populations. Traditionally, obtaining MTJ position during functional activities is accomplished by manually tracking the position of the MTJ in cine B-mode ultrasound images – a laborious and time-consuming process. Recent advances in deep learning have facilitated the availability of user-friendly open-source software packages for automated tracking. However, these software packages were originally intended for animal pose estimation and have not been widely tested on ultrasound images. Therefore, the purpose of this paper was to evaluate the efficacy of deep neural networks to accurately track medial gastrocnemius MTJ positions in cine B-mode ultrasound images across tasks spanning controlled loading during isolated contractions to physiological loading during treadmill walking. Methods Cine B-mode ultrasound images of the medial gastrocnemius MTJ were collected from 15 subjects (6M/9F, 23 yr, 71.9 kg, 1.8 m) during treadmill walking at 1.25 m/s and during maximal voluntary isometric plantarflexor contractions (MVICs). Five deep neural networks were trained using 480 manually-labeled images collected during walking, defined as the ground truth, and were then used to predict MTJ position in images from novel subjects: 1) during walking (novel-subject) and 2) during MVICs (novel-condition). Results We found an average mean absolute error of 1.26±1.30 mm and 2.61±3.31 mm between the ground truth and predicted MTJ positions in the novel-subject and novel-condition evaluations, respectively. Conclusions Our results provide support for the use of open-source software for creating deep neural networks to reliably track MTJ positions in B-mode ultrasound images. We believe this approach to MTJ position tracking is an accessible and time-saving solution, with broad applications for many fields, such as rehabilitation or clinical diagnostics.
Bidirectional H8 AC-DC Topology Combining Advantages of Both Diode-Clamped and Flying-Capacitor Three Level Converters

A three-level bidirectional AC-DC converter with H8 topology is proposed to combine the advantages of both neutral-point clamped and flying-capacitor three-level converters for medium voltage AC-DC solid-state transformer applications. The innovative H8 converter features self-balanced capacitor voltage, common-mode voltage elimination, and small capacitance of the flying capacitors. The proposed carrier-based modulation enables the H8 converter to operate under both active and reactive power conditions. A 10 kVA AC-DC converter prototype with 1.7 kV SiC MOSFETs and 3.3 kV SiC diodes verifies the feasibility and advantages of the proposed topology and the modulation method. The capacitance of the flying capacitors in the H8 converter is reduced by 45 times compared to that of the flying-capacitor converters. The H8 converter efficiency is tested up to 99% at 2 kV DC voltage. The proposed H8 converter is suitable for the next-generation PV inverter, grid-forming inverter, MV fast charger, and SST applications.
Family-focused interventions as prevention and early intervention of behavioral problems in children with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social-communication and behavior and is associated with a range of mental health conditions and challenging behaviors. Family-centered interventions delivered in early childhood can help improve child behavioral outcomes and improve adaptive functioning. The current review summarizes empirical studies published from 2013 to 2021 that examine family-based or parenting intervention on child behavior problems in young children with ASD. Fifteen studies representing eight interventions are reviewed in terms of study participants, design elements, assessments, and key findings. Although there is support for family-centered interventions for reducing child behavior problems, especially among White well-educated American families, more research is needed with diverse families who may face different barriers to intervention. Further, more research is needed on interventions that promote family functioning and parent well-being in addition to improving child behavioral functioning. Strengths and limitations of the current literature base are reviewed with recommendations for future directions.
Stalin's War: A New History of World War II: by Sean McMeekin (New York: Basic Books, 2021), 831 pages

Sean McMeekin of Bard College in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York is a prolific author. He is perhaps best known for his controversial book The Russian Origins of the First World War, which ascribes t...
Surgical Management of Melanoma of the Trunk and Extremities

While melanoma accounts for only 4 % of all skin cancers, it contributes to almost 80 % of skin cancer deaths. The recommended therapies for melanoma differ significantly from that of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. When faced with a suspicious pigmented lesion, thought must be given to the ultimate therapy, should the lesion in fact be a malignant melanoma. We therefore recommend full thickness biopsy, including punch biopsy or narrow-margin (1–2 mm) excisional biopsy, if the lesion is greater than 8 mm in diameter. For lesions on the trunk or proximal extremity, primary closure of the biopsy site is preferred. An appropriate wide local excision includes the previous scar along with the tumor bed while obtaining appropriate margins per current NCCN guidelines, which are based on the depth of the lesion. Under appropriate circumstances, consideration should be given to performing a sentinel lymph node biopsy at the same operative setting.
Detail and Background in Audiovisual Lessons and Their Effect on Learners.

Does complexity of detail, accuracy of scale, and use of background help subjects learn technical information? Apparently not — at least not the 80 soldiers who learned about bore sighting of tank machine guns in this study. Half the subjects used the existing self-contained learning package, a tape-filmstrip lesson containing a large number of complex visuals. The other half used lessons identical in the audio portion but containing simplified (but not deliberately improved) visuals. There were no significant differences between the two groups in achievement, and both were strongly favorable toward their respective lesson.
The specific binding, bending, and unwinding of DNA by RsrI endonuclease, an isoschizomer of EcoRI endonuclease.

To determine whether RsrI endonuclease recognizes and cleaves the sequence GAATTC in duplex DNA similarly to its isoschizomer EcoRI we initiated a functional comparison of the two enzymes. Equilibrium binding experiments showed that at 20 degrees C RsrI endonuclease binds to specific and nonspecific sequences in DNA with affinities similar to those of EcoRI. At 0 degrees C the affinity of RsrI for its specific recognition sequence is reduced 7-fold whereas the affinity for noncanonical sequences remains relatively unchanged. Unlike EcoRI, incubation of RsrI endonuclease with N-ethylmaleimide inactivates the enzyme; however, preincubation with DNA prevents the inactivation. The N-ethylmaleimide-treated enzyme fails to bind DNA as assayed by gel mobility shift assays. Comparison of the deduced amino acid sequences of RsrI and EcoRI endonucleases suggests that modification of Cys245 is responsible for the inactivation. Fe(II). EDTA and methidiumpropyl-EDTA.Fe(II) footprinting results indicate that RsrI, like EcoRI, protects 12 base pairs from cleavage when bound to its specific recognition sequence in the absence of Mg2+. RsrI bends DNA by approximately 50 degrees, as determined by measuring the relative electrophoretic mobilities of specific RsrI-DNA complexes with the binding site in the center or near the end of the DNA fragment. This value is similar to that reported for EcoRI. RsrI also unwinds the DNA helix by 25 degrees +/- 5 degrees, a value close to that reported for EcoRI endonuclease. Collectively, these results indicate that the overall structural changes induced in the DNA by the binding of RsrI and EcoRI endonucleases to DNA in the absence of Mg2+ are similar. In the accompanying paper (Aiken, C. R., McLaughlin, L. W., and Gumport, R. I. (1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 19070-19078) we present results of studies of RsrI endonuclease using oligonucleotide substrates containing base analogues which suggest differences in the ways the two enzymes cleave DNA.
Management Accountants in the United States: Practitioner and Academic Views of Recent Developments1

Abstract Management accountants (although not called management accountants in those days) can be traced back to the 1700s, but some of the exciting developments are in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. In the past two decades management accountants have moved from data accumulators, financial reporters, data analysts, decision-supporters and business advisers to business partners. Top level management accountants are now emerging as members of the most important business decision-making groups guiding major organizational, operational and strategic choices. This chapter focuses on the recent and meteoric rise of management accountants. Research identifies the knowledge, skills and abilities (known also as KSAs) required for doing management accounting, along with transformations and trends changing at blistering rates. The stresses and strains of these new roles are apparent in the continuing educational requirements for current management accountants in transition, as well as the new collegiate entrants into the profession. Studies supported by both practitioner and academic sources identify major gaps between practice and the collegiate classroom. Trying to synchronize management accounting education with practice may require practitioner-driven curricular change and academic programmes willing to risk innovation. A few academics offer innovative approaches to teaching management accounting in an academic environment that is not particularly disposed to publications about teaching. Specific areas of management accounting research (especially empirical field studies, cases and surveys of practice) and education (especially curriculum models and classroom tested cases or simulations with appropriate assessments of effectiveness) justify future support and development. With a rapidly changing environment management accountants may need a possible change in name to reflect the key role they occupy in the finance function of organizations.
Primary role of B-type natriuretic peptide across the clinical spectrum: from emergency medicine to transitional care and beyond into the community.

Heart failure (HF), the most common reason for hospitalization in Medicare recipients, carries significant mortality and morbidity and is costly to the health care system. HF hospitalizations increase with the increasing age of the population and constitutes Medicare & Medicaid Services’ largest expenditure. According to the Acute Decompensated Heart Failure National Registry (ADHERE), a database of more than 100,000 patients who were admitted with a diagnosis of HF, approximately 80% of these patients came from the emergency department (ED) and 89% had dyspnea at the time of ED presentation. Contrary to ADHERE data, the Biomarkers in Acute Heart Failure (BACH) trial indicates 34.6% of 1588 patients presenting to EDs with acute shortness of breath were diagnosed with HF. Although shortness of breath is thought to be predictive of HF, this idea is based on conclusions drawn from a registry enrolling patients with an established diagnosis. The ADHERE study reflects the population with confirmed diagnosis and not the at-risk population with symptoms suggestive of HF, thus emphasizing the need to distinguish and risk-stratify the population presenting to EDs prior to implementing early intervention. This is particularly desirable in patients with diagnosed acute HF for accurate diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. Congest Heart Fail. 2011;17:8–13. ©2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
RAINFALL IN THE GARDEN OF THE UNITED STATES GREAT PLAINS, 1870-1889

The recent accumulation of all published precipitation records from 1870–1889 in the central and northern Great Plains of the United States provides a renewed potential in analyzing climatic reality during early settlement, corresponding to a time when some written histories documented that the ‘Rain followed the Plow’. Growing season precipitation in the central and northern Great Plains from 1870–1889 were examined relative to modern climatic normals (1961–1990). Growing season totals mostly exhibit little changes in precipitation in the region as compared to today. Some wetter springs and summers occurred in the Dakotas during the late 1870s and early 1880s, subsequent to the drier early-mid 1870s and corresponding to the Great Dakota Boom. Wetter summers occurred over the central Plains in the mid-1880s, corresponding to increased migration in Nebraska and Kansas. Drier summers occurred during the early 1870s and inactive settlement in the early 1880s. Although increased rainfall may have been conducive for early settlement, in general the ‘Rain did not follow the Plow’, with extreme seasonal and monthly heavy precipitation events at the subregional scale perhaps playing important roles on settlers' climatic perceptions. The results of this study provide a framework in order to conduct historical climate impact analyses as well as information that can be applied towards understanding spatial climatic variations further back into time.
Recurrence after complete resection and selective use of adjuvant therapy for stage I through III Merkel cell carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare cutaneous neuroendocrine neoplasm whose natural history is poorly understood. Here, the authors describe their experience with a large cohort of patients who were treated at a single institution to describe patterns of recurrence after curative therapy. METHODS: Review of a prospective database was performed. Patient-related, tumor-related, and treatment-related variables were recorded, and the site and timing of initial recurrence were recorded. Factors associated with receipt of adjuvant therapy and recurrence were determined. RESULTS: In total, 364 patients with stage I through III MCC who underwent complete resection were identified. Adjuvant local radiation therapy (RT), lymph node RT, and chemotherapy were received selectively by 23%, 23%, and 15% of patients, respectively. Factors associated with the receipt of adjuvant therapy included younger age, primary tumor features (larger size, lymphovascular invasion [LVI], positive margin excision), and increasing pathologic stage. With median follow-up of 3.6 years, 108 patients (30%) developed a recurrence, including 11 local recurrences (3%), 12 in-transit recurrences (3%), 43 lymph node recurrences (12%), and 42 distant recurrences (12%). Clinically involved lymph nodes, primary tumor LVI, and a history of leukemia/lymphoma were predictive of recurrence. The majority of recurrences (80%) occurred in patients who had clinically involved lymph nodes or patients who did not undergo pathologic lymph node evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: A low recurrence rate in patients with clinically lymph node-negative MCC was achieved with adequate surgery (including sentinel lymph node biopsy) and the selective use of adjuvant RT for high-risk tumors. In contrast, patients with clinically lymph node-positive MCC had significantly higher rates of recurrence, especially distant recurrence. The authors concluded that contemporary natural history studies are critical in designing treatment pathways and clinical trials for MCC. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Angiotensin III and pressor responsiveness in 3-day renal artery stenosis rabbits

This study examined the ability of [des-Asp1]angiotensin II (angiotensin III, ANG III) to interact with the angiotensin II (ANG II) receptors involved in pressor hyperresponsiveness in one-kidney, 3-day renal artery stenosis (RAS) rabbits. In experiment 1, six 3-day RAS rabbits had significantly larger pressor responses to norepinephrine (NE; 800 ng.min-1.kg body wt-1) than did six 3-day controls. The intravenous infusion of captopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, diminished the pressor response NE in the RAS rabbits. ANG III at 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 pmol.min-1.kg-1 iv with captopril resulted in a progressive restoration of pressor hyperresponsiveness to NE in the RAS rabbits, and ANG II at 2.0 pmol.min-1.kg-1 iv produced no further enhancement of the pressor responses to NE. In experiment 2, 12 3-day RAS rabbits had pressor hyperresponsiveness to NE that was alleviated by the infusion of captopril and was restored by the intravenous infusion of ANG III (2 pmol.min-1.kg-1). In six of the these rabbits an additional intravenous infusion of the ANG II antagonist [Sar1,Ile8]ANG II at 300 ng.min-1.kg body wt-1 diminished the pressor hyperresponsiveness to NE; in the other six rabbits the infusion of [Sar1,Ala8] ANG II at 6 micrograms.min-1.kg body wt-1 did not reduce the pressor hyperresponse to NE. In experiment 3, the infusion of ANG III (5 pmol.min-1.kg-1) in six normal rabbits did not alter the pressor responses to NE (400 ng.min-1.kg-1), whereas the infusion of ANG II (5 pmol.min-1.kg-1) resulted in increased pressor responses to NE.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Oncogenic kinase signalling

Protein-tyrosine kinases (PTKs) are important regulators of intracellular signal-transduction pathways mediating development and multicellular communication in metazoans. Their activity is normally tightly controlled and regulated. Perturbation of PTK signalling by mutations and other genetic alterations results in deregulated kinase activity and malignant transformation. The lipid kinase phosphoinositide 3-OH kinase (PI(3)K) and some of its downstream targets, such as the protein-serine/threonine kinases Akt and p70 S6 kinase (p70S6K), are crucial effectors in oncogenic PTK signalling. This review emphasizes how oncogenic conversion of protein kinases results from perturbation of the normal autoinhibitory constraints on kinase activity and provides an update on our knowledge about the role of deregulated PI(3)K/Akt and mammalian target of rapamycin/p70S6K signalling in human malignancies.
Cumulative sum: An individualized proficiency metric for laparoscopic fundamentals

Abstract Background A reliable metric of technical proficiency is indispensable to the training of fellows and residents. The purpose of this study was to determine whether cumulative sum (Cusum) has predictive validity in laparoscopic training. We hypothesized that Cusum would be a better predictor of technical ability in fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery (FLS) than traditional practice volume metrics. Methods Twenty medical students were recruited to practice three FLS tasks: peg transfer, circle cut, and intracorporeal knot tie. Up to 7hours of self-directed practice was allotted to each participant. Practice attempts were scored by standard FLS criteria and monitored via Cusum. Each participant's terminal Cusum performance was analyzed retrospectively. Posttests were conducted by faculty blinded to practice performance. Results Eighteen participants completed the study (90%). Median adjusted posttest scores were 102.3, 84.1, and 78.6 for peg transfer, circle cut, and knot tie, respectively. For the knot tie task, participants who exceeded the Cusum decision interval during their final practice attempts performed significantly higher on posttesting (81.2 vs 71.5, p=0.015). Knot tie terminal Cusum score was positively associated with posttest performance after adjusting for practice volume (p=0.031). Total practice volume and practice time were not significantly associated with posttest performance for any FLS task. Conclusion Cusum score is a more valid representation of FLS proficiency than practice volume or practice time. Incorporating Cusum in a clinical setting may promote more efficient allocation of time resources and operative volume.
Glenohumeral translation after total shoulder arthroplasty.

To define the amount and direction of anteroposterior translation of the glenohumeral joint after total shoulder arthroplasty, 13 patients who had previously undergone nonconstrained total shoulder arthroplasty were studied roentgenographically. Patients were placed on the x-ray table in a supine position, and axillary roentgenograms of the shoulder were made with the arm at 90° abduction and in four positions within the horizontal plane of motion: − 30° (horizontal extension), 0° (neutral), 30°, and 60° (horizontal flexion). For all positions the shoulder was in neutral rotation. The center of the prosthetic humeral head was identified, and the distance between it and a perpendicular line bisecting the glenoid component was measured. At follow-up the patients had statistically significant improvements in pain, motion, and function. No patients had any clinical evidence of instability. The mean total translation was 4 mm posteriorly (range 0 to 12 mm). Most translation occurred between − 30° and 30°. Anteroposterior translation appears to occur in a posterior direction. For this to occur the prosthetic humeral head slides onto the polyethylene rim of the glenoid component, subjecting it to eccentric loading and the possibilities of wear, polyethylene debris formation, induction of osteolysis, and subsequent component loosening.
The complexity of Dehn's algorithm for word problems in groups

Abstract Given the presentation for a group of Dehn's algorithm, a multitape Turing machine is shown to exist that solves the word problem for that presentation in linear time. Key to this solution is the pattern matching methodology from complexity theory as well as a recent result for confluent Thue systems.
Correlation between photoluminescence data and device performance of p -channel strained-layer materials

The 4-K photoluminescence spectrum and room temperature transconductance for modulation dopedp-type GaAs/(In,Ga)As dual-channel strained-quantum-well field-effect transistors with comparable dopant and 2-D carrier concentrations were studied. All gate sizes were nominally 300 μm wide by 1 μm long. The best sample has a peak normalized extrinsic transconductancegmoat room temperature of 31 mS/mm and a 4K photoluminescence linewidth of 6 meV. Depending upon the sample,gmovaried from about 0.5 to 31 mS/mm while the 4-K photoluminescence linewidth decreased from 26 to 6 meV. The low-temperature photoluminescence linewidth and room temperature transconductance were correlated. These results indicate that photoluminescence spectroscopy can be used for screening wafers for potential device peformance before processing.
Fouling-resistant polymer brush coatings

A major problem to be addressed with thin composite films used in processes such as coatings or water purification is the biofouling of the surface. To address this problem in a model system, functionalized polyaramide membranes containing an atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) initiator were synthesized as a versatile approach to easily modify the surface properties of the polyaramide. Poly(methacrylic acid) brushes were grown using surface initiated ATRP followed by the functionalization of the poly(methacrylic acid) brushes with different side-chains chosen to reduce adhesion between the membrane and foulant. The relation between membrane fouling and the physicochemical properties of the surface was investigated in detail.
A study of modon collisions using a point vortex model

Abstract We study the coaxial collision between two modons by using a point vortex formulation due to Zabusky and McWilliams. This leads to a set of ordinary differential equations for the motion of two pairs of point vortices, each of which make up a finite-sized dipole. Due to the symmetry present in the coaxial system, these equations reduce to a planar Hamiltonian system which can be studied analytically. We study the nature of this system and the bifurcations which occur in order to classify the behavior of the point vortices as a function of parameters. We show all the possible types of collisions which occur and discuss their relevance to collisions between two modons which are initially far apart.
Abyssal hills in the central equatorial Pacific: Detailed structure of the sea floor and subbottom reflectors☆

Abyssal hills in a 230 km2 area of the central equatorial Pacific (8°20′N 153°W) have relief ranging from 50 to 270 m. Most hills and valleys are elongate and trend north-south. The three highest hills lie on a northwest trending ridge parallel to the crest of the former Darwin Rise. Three subbottom reflectors mapped with a reflection profiler show the same major structural features as the sea floor. The deepest of these (base of the first layer) is generally conformable with the sea floor but has about twice as much relief (540 m compared with 280 m). The first layer ranges in thickness from 100 to 440 m and is thickest in depressions and thinnest on high abyssal hills. If the base of the first layer is isochronous the rate of sediment accumulation has varied by a factor of four over a distance of less than 10 km. These variations in thickness lead to a smoothing of the surface topography. Small-scale features of the intermediate reflector are not concordant with those of the base of the first layer and the sea floor. Therefore, it seems that this reflector does not mark a time-stratigraphic horizon, but rather a change in the degree of lithification of the sediment not directly related to time surfaces. The shallowest reflector is restricted to a topographic depression covering about a quarter of the surveyed area. Its complex nature and limited areal extent point to marked (perhaps periodic) variations in the local pattern of sedimentation. The thickness of fossiliferous Quaternary sediment in 38 cores is positively correlated with the steepness of slopes, but not with the thickness of the first layer. This discrepancy can only be resolved with more extensive surveys and samples from deep drill holes.
Distant-neighbor exchange constants from magnetization steps in Zn1-xCoxTe.

Direct measurements of several exchange constants ${\mathit{J}}_{\mathit{i}}$, for several neighbors located at different distances ${\mathit{r}}_{\mathit{i}}$, are possible via the magnetization-steps method. Predictions for the distance dependence of the exchange constant can then be tested. The theory of the magnetization steps (MS's) caused by distant neighbors is presented. This theory is based on a sequence of cluster models. The problem of identifying the particular exchange constant ${\mathit{J}}_{\mathit{i}}$ that is responsible for an observed series of MS's is also discussed. The magnetization of ${\mathrm{Zn}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathit{x}}$${\mathrm{Co}}_{\mathit{x}}$Te, with x=0.007, was measured at 0.6 K in magnetic fields up to 27 T, and at 0.08 K in fields up to 20 T. Two series of MS's were observed. These series were identified as being due to pairs of next-nearest neighbors (${\mathit{J}}_{2}$ pairs), and pairs of third neighbors (${\mathit{J}}_{3}$ pairs). The exchange constants deduced from the data are ${\mathit{J}}_{2}$/${\mathit{k}}_{\mathit{B}}$=-(5.7\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.6) K and ${\mathit{J}}_{3}$/${\mathit{k}}_{\mathit{B}}$=-(2.7\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3) K. These values, and the earlier result ${\mathit{J}}_{1}$/${\mathit{k}}_{\mathit{B}}$=-38 K for the nearest-neighbor exchange constant, are compared with several proposed dependences of ${\mathit{J}}_{\mathit{i}}$ on distance.
Recording and documenting the chromatic information of architectural heritage

Abstract One essential approach in preserving architectural heritage is the documentation of 3D geometries and surface textures of historic buildings. For example, precise colour information, excluding lighting effects, is an intrinsic property of the surface materials of building interiors and exteriors. However, while colour information has been recorded for small sample areas, it has not been accurately documented on the scale of entire building surfaces. This is critical, because building materials decay and their colours fade with time. The goal of this project is to develop a method to assist in recording and documenting the chromatic information of interiors and exteriors of historic buildings with low cost and high efficiency. The method takes advantage of emerging high dynamic range imaging (HDRI) technology, which can store rich information about colour and illumination through digital photography. By recording the colour information, in addition to the geometry and texture information obtained through other existing technologies, we can achieve more complete documentation for architectural heritage. In this paper, we discuss an overview of the problem and present our algorithms for utilizing computer vision techniques to retrieve chromatic information of historic buildings. We also present and discuss our experiments and results of applying our method to studies of lab objects and the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City, Beijing.
Elevated Activity of Oligomycin-Sensitive ATPase in Lymphocytes From Patients With Lung Carcinoma

SummaryLymphocytes from patients with lung carcinoma exhibit elevated oligomycin-sensitive ATPase activity. Patients with nonmalignant diseases and normal individuals showed identical low activity. The absence of Na. K-activated ATPase has been given an explanation by the procedures used for preparation of the cell homogenate.We gratefully acknowledge the technical assistance of Miss Miriam Fisher and Mrs. Virginia Hall.
Treatment of complicated urinary tract infections with amikacin: comparison of low and high dosage

A randomized prospective study was carried out comparing the recommended dose of amikacin sulfate (Amikin) (15 mg./Kg.) with a lower dose (7.5 mg./Kg.) in the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections. A total of 50 patients were entered in the study over a period of sixteen months. Bacteriologic results were comparable in both groups. Laboratory values remained normal with the exception of 1 patient in the high-dose group who had renal insufficiency. No evidence of ototoxicity was recorded. Our data indicate that low dosage amikacin sulfate is satisfactory in the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections.
Some Difficulties in Defining Pronunciation on Paper

Author's Summary— The attempts at definition of foreign sounds in a recent popular book on language bring to mind the difficulties encountered in allowing for local variations in English. It is hoped that henceforth textbook authors will state what variety of English they are using as a standard of comparison.
Indian Forts and Religious Icons: The Buffalo Road (Qoq’aalx ‘Iskit) Trail Before and After the Lewis and Clark Expedition

The Buffalo Road Trail was used for centuries by Columbia Plateau Indians to access buffalo hunting grounds east of the Continental Divide. Peeled trees, rock cairns, and unique stone features represent archaeological signatures of the trail’s antiquity and demonstrate its extensive use. Ancient trails linked pre-contact camps and settlements and allowed for the diffusion of a variety of cultural items. From a landscape perspective, trails provide information relative to pre-contact travel, subsistence, trade, and warfare. Although significant to the indigenous people in the region, this and other trails were also used by European and American groups colonizing the American West over the past several centuries. Captain Meriwether Lewis, Jesuit missionary, Nicolas Point, and General John Gibbon were among those who traveled this well worn Indian road. Archaeological studies, oral histories and ethnographic and historical information underscore the importance of the trail to pre-contact, protohistoric, and historic people.
The Effect of Massive Weight Loss on Arterial Oxygenation and Pulmonary Function Tests

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and arterial oxygenation were studied 24 hours preoperatively and again at varying times (5 to 20 months) during the postoperative weight loss of 37 morbidly obese patients. Among PFTs, expiratory reserve volume (ERV) demonstrated the most significant (P less than 0.001) improvement with weight loss. No clinically relevant differences were found after weight loss in FEV1, FVC, or MMEF. In 11 patients whose arterial blood gases were sampled before and after weight loss, a significant correlation was demonstrated between change in ERV and change in Pao2 (r = 0.59, P less than 0.05) and P(A-a)o2 (r = 0.76, P less than 0.01). When weight loss is expressed as either change in body mass index (delta BMI) or as a change in percent of ideal weight (delta wt), there existed a weight loss threshold for improvement in arterial oxygenation. A delta BMI of greater than 20 or a delta wt more than 100 per cent resulted in a significant improvement in Pao2 (P less than 0.01) or P(A-a)o2 (P less than 0.05). These data suggest that morbidly obese patients do not meaningfully improve FEV1, FVC, or MMEF with massive weight loss. However, there is a significant improvement in ERV that directly correlates with improvement in both Pao2, and P(A-a)o2.
Functional Activities of Lactobacillus Probiotics: Genetic Mandate

The lactobacilli are important inhabitants of the intestinal tract of man and animals. Considerable evidence has implicated them in a number of potentially beneficial roles including immunostimulation, pathogen exclusion, production of bioactive materials, and general intestinal health. Opportunities now abound for incorporation of lactobacilli into functional foods, dietary adjuncts, and health-related products. Over the past decade, developments in the molecular taxonomy of lactobacilli have identified six distinct species within the group previously designated Lactobacillus acidophilus. It remains an important challenge to understand the intestinal roles, activities, and interactions of the individual species, as well as the group at large. In this context, genetic characterization and manipulation of lactobacilli are essential to unequivocally define their contributions to the intestinal microbiota and ultimately control their unique and potentially beneficial properties. This presentation will examine gene systems and regulatory controls of lactobacilli that may be important to their activity, stability, and gastrointestinal functionality. The genetic tools and strategies currently available for characterization and manipulation of lactobacilli will be discussed relative to future targets for probiotic applications. From this framework, new opportunities for the development of safe and effective probiotics will be presented.
BRANCHING OF SOLUTIONS FOR THE PROBLEM OF MEAN-SQUARE APPROXIMATION OF A REAL FINITE FUNCTION OF TWO VARIABLES BY THE MODULUS OF DOUBLE FOURIER TRANSFORMATION

We investigate the branching of solutions of a Hammerstein-type nonlinear two-dimensional integral equation that arises in the problems of mean-square approximation of a real finite nonnegative function of two variables by the modulus of double Fourier integral, depending on two parameters [Mat. Metody Fiz.-Mekh. Polya, 51, No. 1, 53–64; No. 4, 80–85 (2008)]. We have derived analytical expressions for eigenfunctions of the corresponding linear homogeneous integral equation, necessary for the construction of branched-off solutions, and obtained systems of transcendental equations for finding the points of their branching. We also present, in the first approximation, the analytical representations of complex solutions branched-off from the real solution for the two-dimensional case of branching.
Discounting the past in robust finite-state systems

In this paper we introduce discounted input-output dynamical stability as a variant of a recently introduced notion of robustness for discrete and cyber-physical systems. We analyze the verification and synthesis problems for this new notion of robustness for discrete systems given by finite-state automata. We show that the verification problem can be solved in terms of a linear program and hence is solvable in polynomial time. We provide an approximate solution to the synthesis problem whose complexity depends on the accuracy of the approximation. We discuss the merits and drawbacks of discounted input-output dynamical stability in comparison with existing robustness concepts for discrete systems.
Behavior of 4He Near Tλ in Films of Infinite and Finite Lateral Extent

We report studies of a 4He film confined between two silicon wafers separated by 3189 A. The film is connected to a bulk helium reservoir via small channels 100 A high, 8 µm wide by 2000 µm long. This cell design has allowed us to study the heat capacity in a planar confinement (a film of ∞ lateral size), and the superfluid density in the connecting channels (a film of finite lateral size). This work is relevant to finite-size scaling of the specific heat for 2D confinement and it is compared with earlier data. It is also relevant to finite-size 2D behavior for the superfluid density which is related to the recent theory of Sobnack and Kusmartsev. Analysis of the data is presented as well as a discussion of future cell designs to address, in particular, the behavior of laterally confined films.
Abstract #5: A Phase I, Dosage-Escalation Study of Creatine Monohydrate in Subjects with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Background Mitochondrial dysfunction is a proposed pathologic mechanism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Creatine has been shown to stabilize the mitochondrial transition pore, buffer intracellular energy stores, stimulate synaptic glutamate uptake, and scavenge reactive oxygen species. It is suggested that creatine is neuroprotective in vivo and that this effect is dose-dependant. Creatine is safe and well-tolerated but failed to demonstrate efficacy in ALS at 5 and 10 g/day. Experience with creatine in HD patients suggests that creatine may be neuroprotective at higher dosages. The purpose of this study is to establish steady-state serum pharmacokinetics (PK) of creatine at several dosages, and to evaluate the effects of creatine on brain metabolites using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy ( 1 H-MRS) Methods Six participants with ALS received creatine at three weekly escalating oral dosages (5, 10, and 15 g BID). Creatine blood levels were collected over 5 hours at each visit. MRS was performed at baseline and 5 days after each dose increase. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated by measuring the area under the curve (AUC) for each dosage group. Changes in brain metabolite levels on MRS were compared within subjects before and after treatments using repeated measures RM-ANOVA. Results To Date Mean pre-dose steady-state creatine plasma concentrations were 20.3, 39.3, and 61.5 μg/mL at 5, 10, 15 g BID, respectively. Creatine spectra increased by 8% ( p = 0.06) and glutamate + glutamine spectra decreased by 17% ( p = 0.039) at higher dosages. There were no safety concerns at any of the dosages. Discussion/Conclusion Creatine plasma concentrations increased in a dose-dependant manner. Creatine appears to cross the blood–brain barrier, and oral administration of 15 g BID is associated with increased in vivo brain creatine concentrations and decreased glutamate concentrations. The decrease in brain glutamate concentration with increased creatine dosages is of particular interest given the role of glutamate-mediated injury to motor neurons in ALS. The results of this study support that 15 g BID creatine could be tested as a therapeutic dosage in ALS clinical trials. These data also support MRS as a potential biomarker for creatine effect on brain metabolites.
A counterexample to the closed graph theorem for bilinear maps

Abstract The closed graph theorem allows one to assert that if a bounded transformation has an inverse, the inverse is bounded. The corresponding statement for bilinear maps is shown to be false, at least in the category of general Banach spaces. This problem arose in connection with the problem of writing every function in H 1 of the polydisc as a product of functions in H 2 . The method of proof involves a covering of the unit sphere by neighborhoods which are products but in which the bounds involved in these products tend to infinity.
The Use of Thoracic Epidural Anesthesia as the Sole Anesthetic for Intrathoracic Surgery

In a select group of patients, thoracic epidural anesthesia may be used as the sole anesthetic for intrathoracic surgery. One must have a thorough understanding of the physiological changes associated with an open chest before undertaking this technique. Additionally, one must be comfortable with the placement and use of a thoracic epidural catheter. This article reviews the physiology of an open chest and the pathophysiology of postresection bronchopleural fistulas. The use of general anesthesia for patients with bronchopleural fistulas is reviewed. Additionally, the method of placement of a thoracic epidural catheter is described. Finally, a method of thoracic epidural anesthesia is described in a select group of patients presenting for surgical management of postresection bronchopleural fistula.
CSF Apo‑E levels associate with cognitive decline and MRI changes

Apolipoprotein E (APOE) e4 allele is the most important genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and it is thought to do so by modulating levels of its product, apolipoprotein E (Apo-E), and regulating amyloid-β (Aβ) clearance. However, information on clinical and biomarker correlates of Apo-E proteins is scarce. We examined the relationship of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma Apo-E protein levels, and APOE genotype to cognition and AD biomarker changes in 311 AD neuroimaging initiative subjects with CSF Apo-E measurements and 565 subjects with plasma Apo-E measurements. At baseline, higher CSF Apo-E levels were associated with higher total and phosphorylated CSF tau levels. CSF Apo-E levels were associated with longitudinal cognitive decline, MCI conversion to dementia, and gray matter atrophy rate in total tau/Aβ1–42 ratio and APOE genotype-adjusted analyses. In analyses stratified by APOE genotype, our results were only significant in the group without the e4 allele. Baseline CSF Apo-E levels did not predict longitudinal CSF Aβ or tau changes. Plasma Apo-E levels show a mild correlation with CSF Apo-E levels, but were not associated with longitudinal cognitive and MRI changes. Based on our analyses, we speculate that increased CSF Apo-E2 or -E3 levels might represent a protective response to injury in AD and may have neuroprotective effects by decreasing neuronal damage independent of tau and amyloid deposition in addition to its effects on amyloid clearance.
Letter recognition reveals pathways of second-order and third-order motion

How are second-order (texture-defined) and third-order (pattern-tracking) motions processed in our brains? As shown here in the context of an ambiguous motion task involving a nominal second-order stimuli first devised by Werkhoven et al., [Werkhoven, P., Sperling, G. & Chubb, C. (1993) Vision Res. 33, 463–485.], the observers fell into two distinct groups based on the direction of perceived motion. The differences were interpreted in terms of the algorithms used to extract motion: one group by using a second-order motion process and the other by using a third-order motion process. This was investigated further using a dual-task paradigm in which the interference between two tasks indicated the nature of processing involved. Observers who used third-order motion processing experienced interference with letter recognition and a more severe interference in dual third-order motion tasks. Observers who used second-order motion processing experienced interference with another second-order motion detection but not with letter recognition. Insofar as task interference implies the need for attention, the complex interference effects and the apparently paradoxical interference effects of second-order motion perception imply that there are multiple forms of attention. Whether two tasks interfere depends on whether they require the same form of attention. Insofar as spatio-temporal processing is assumed to be carried out in the dorsal stream and pattern recognition in the ventral stream, the interference patterns suggest that second-order motion may be computed entirely in the dorsal stream, and third-order motion may involve two computational processes, one of which shares computational resources with the letter recognition task in the ventral stream.
A Map of Recent Positive Selection in the Human Genome

The identification of signals of very recent positive selection provides information about the adaptation of modern humans to local conditions. We report here on a genome-wide scan for signals of very recent positive selection in favor of variants that have not yet reached fixation. We describe a new analytical method for scanning single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data for signals of recent selection, and apply this to data from the International HapMap Project. In all three continental groups we find widespread signals of recent positive selection. Most signals are region-specific, though a significant excess are shared across groups. Contrary to some earlier low resolution studies that suggested a paucity of recent selection in sub-Saharan Africans, we find that by some measures our strongest signals of selection are from the Yoruba population. Finally, since these signals indicate the existence of genetic variants that have substantially different fitnesses, they must indicate loci that are the source of significant phenotypic variation. Though the relevant phenotypes are generally not known, such loci should be of particular interest in mapping studies of complex traits. For this purpose we have developed a set of SNPs that can be used to tag the strongest ∼250 signals of recent selection in each population.