cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimum Bid Markup Calculation Using Neurofuzzy Systems and Multidimensional Risk Analysis Algorithm

The paper presents a methodology for arriving at optimum bid markups in static competitive bidding environments by use of neurofuzzy systems and integrated multidimensional risk analysis algorithms. The neurofuzzy framework enables integration of the objective and subjective factors found in the underlying decision-making process, and serves as the stepping stone for the generation of the multidimensional probability distribution function that governs competitive bidding. Subsequent bid optimization is achieved by employing a multidimensional risk analysis algorithm.
Domestic Violence and Couples Counseling: The Importance of Assessment and Understanding Typologies in Treatment

This article provides an overview of research related to the treatment of domestic violence, with particular focus on distinguishing among specific typologies during the assessment process of couples counseling. After discussing research related to the assessment process, the authors include fictional case examples that illustrate scenarios in which couples counseling may be appropriate and when couples treatment is wholly inappropriate.
Eruption rates and isotopic systematics of ocean islands: further evidence for small-scale heterogeneity in the upper mantle

Abstract Estimated eruption rates for a representative sampling of young volcanic ocean islands, combined with isotopic compositional ranges of erupted lavas, provide evidence for small-scale geochemical heterogeneity in the Earth's upper mantle. Mid-ocean spreading ridge basalts constitute approximately 90% of the present-day mantle-derived volcanic products, and their averaged isotopic compositions approximate the mean isotopic composition of the upper mantle. Isotopic compositions which depart from this average reflect other mantle components possibly derived from recycled materials. These other components are most apparent in lavas from ocean islands with low eruption rates, and by inference, low degrees of melting of their mantle sources. Lavas from islands with relatively high eruption rates are characterized by limited ranges of less extreme isotopic compositions. The appearance of isotopically distinct components at lower eruption rates indicates that these components, which have survived complete homogenization by mechanical mixing and chemical diffusion, are minor in volume, are preferentially melted, and exert an important control on the isotopic compositions of erupted lavas of ocean islands. The isotopic variation of ocean island lavas may be thus explained by variable degrees of melting by thermal plumes of the upper mantle which is heterogeneous on a small scale, or variable degrees of melting within compositionally heterogeneous plumes. Total ranges of intra-island isotopic variation in ocean islands are not necessarily greater at low eruption rates, providing evidence for an irregular distribution of small-scale heterogeneities in the upper mantle, or variable degrees of internal heterogeneity of plumes.
Measurement of the Longitudinal Polarization of Positrons Emitted by Sodium-22

Measurement of the preponderance of $1^{3}S_{1,0}$ states of positronium over $1^{1}S_{0,0}$ states formed in a gas at moderately high field $H$ (10 to 15 kilogauss), yields directly the preponderance of positron spins opposed to H over those parallel, just prior to capture, the magnitude and sign of the Paschen-Back effect may be inferred from the field value and the known triplet-singlet energy separation at zero field. By using suitable gases, the two-photon annihilation events from $1^{3}S_{1,0}$ are differentiated from those from $1^{1}S_{0,0}$ by requiring strict angular correlation at 180\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}; positronium atoms in the latter state, being only about ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}10}$ sec old at annihilation, have retained enough of the kinetic energy at formation to yield a broad angular correlation, while the former states, being on the average 30 times older at annihilation, yield a narrow component. The relative efficiency for counting the triplet/singlet states can in practice be made \ensuremath{\sim}1.5, in the presence of all other two-quantum annihilation events. Positrons emitted into the hemisphere about $+z$, plus those scattered by the source material or source-backing into that hemisphere, are found to be polarized along $+z$ by an amount 0.15. Taking, for those positrons ultimately slowed and counted, that ${〈\frac{v}{c}〉}_{\mathrm{effective}}$ at emission is 0.75, it is implied that their longitudinal polarization at emission is at least $0.4〈\frac{v}{c}〉$, this lower limit to apply if there be no back-scattering, no depolarization during the slowing process, and no de-alignment on the part of the positronium. The sodium-22 positrons are unmistakably right-handed. The sought-for connection between failure of parity conservation and polarization of betas from an unpolarized source is thus experimentally established.
Mars geoscience/climatology orbiter low cost mission operations

It will not be possible to support the multiple planetary missions of the magnitude and order of previous missions on the basis of foreseeable NASA funding. It is, therefore, necessary to seek innovative means for accomplishing the goals of planetary exploration with modestly allocated resources. In this connection, a Core Program set of planetary exploration missions has been recommended. Attention is given to a Mission Operations design overview which is based on the Mars Geoscience/Climatology Orbiter Phase-A study performed during spring of 1983.
DEVELOPMENT OF CHINA'S ENERGY SECTOR: REFORM, EFFICIENCY, AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

Even with continued improvements in energy efficiency, China could require a two-to three-fold increase in primary energy consumption over the next 25 years to maintain average GDP growth rates slightly lower than those of the past decade. In the short term, only coal can provide such a large expansion in energy supply. However, widespread coal burning has already resulted in a range of environmental and human health damages. To meet its growing energy needs, yet prevent more serious environmental impacts, China must: continue with economic reform; lift remaining price controls on electric power and fuel; encourage the transfer of advanced technologies form abroad; accelerate the adoption of energy efficiency measures; expand coal cleaning; accelerate research and commercial demonstration of clean coal and renewable energy technologies; phase out the use of coal in the residential and commercial sectors; and strengthen environmental policy. Copyright 1995 by Oxford University Press.
Qualitative research: does it fit in economics?1

This article discusses the role that case studies, built upon open-ended interviews with economic actors, can play in economic research. It argues that such material cannot be treated directly as empirical evidence. Rather it provides a way of building theory, by offering a critical perspective on the standard theoretical assumptions of the discipline and offering alternatives with which to construct theoretical models. It illustrates several alternative ways in which this can be done, drawing on examples from my own research.
Functional expression of a yeast ochre suppressor tRNA gene in Escherichia coli

The yeast tRNATyr ochre suppressor SUP6 gene and a derivative of this gene in which the 14-bp intervening sequence has been deleted, SUP6 delta, have been examined for functional expression in Escherichia coli. The SUP6 delta, but not the SUP6, gene codes for a functional transfer RNA which has been shown to suppress both ochre and amber nonsense mutations in E. coli. Although the SUP6 delta fragment is contained within a 750-bp restriction fragment, isolated from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and contains no encoded CCA, the primary transcript, which originates from an E. coli promoter, approx. 1000 bp upstream, is processed to a mature, functional transfer RNA. The pattern of suppression, i.e., suppression of both ochre and amber mutants, is characteristic of E. coli ochre suppressing tRNAs and is in contrast to the pattern observed in yeast, where only ochre mutations are suppressed. The SUP6 delta encoded tRNA, although coding for tRNATyr in yeast, is not charged solely with tyrosine in E. coli. The functional expression of this mutant eukaryotic transfer RNA gene in E. coli affords a unique opportunity for studies of expression of a gene coding for a stable RNA, in both a prokaryotic and an eukaryotic host.
Soft tissue image latitude (STIL) of radiographic imaging systems

A mathematical formulation for the calculation of image latitude in radiographicimaging systems is proposed. It involves the determination of a quantity called the soft tissue image latitude (STIL). The STIL is shown to be equal to (5.82/γ)(HVT)ST where γ is the slope of the characteristic curve for the film used and (HVT)ST is the half‐value thickness of the incident primary beam in soft tissue. Calculated values of STIL are presented for typical radiographic systems.
Microinjection of the α1-agonist methoxamine into the paraventricular hypothalamus induces anorexia in rats

Abstract Adrenergic receptors within the paraventricular hypothalamus (PVN) play a prominent role in the control of food intake: stimulation of α2-adrenoceptors induces food intake whereas stimulation of α1-adrenoceptors suppresses food intake. This study further examines the role of PVN α1-adrenoceptors hy examining the effects on food and water intake of the α1-adrenergic agonist methoxamine (100, 200, 400 nMol) microinjected into the rat paraventricular hypothalamus. Methoxamine suppressed food intake but not water intake. Doses of 100, 200, and 400 nMol methoxamine suppressed food intake by 47%. 64%, and 96%, respectively. These results further confirm the hypothesis that administration of α1-agonists into the PVN acts to significantly suppress food intake; an action that is in opposition to the facilitory effects of α2-adrenergic agonists on food intake.
Re‐visualising Beur identity in Sebbar's trilogy

In the novels of the Maghribian francophone author, Leila Sebbar, the voices of Beur ‐ the second‐generation Magrhibian born (or brought up) in France ‐ and immigrant women are given centre stage i...
How Personal Protective Equipment Affects Perceptions of Dentists

In this study, 248 college-educated young adults completed the Dental Fears Survey. Subjects then viewed one of two slides of a dentist. In one slide, the dentist wore no PPE at all; in the other, the dentist wore gloves, mask, glasses, face shield and lab coat. Subjects completed a 20-item semantic differential scale to assess their attitudes toward the dentist portrayed in the slide they saw.
Width of a Lorentzian convoluted with a Gaussian

Abstract A method is presented to analyze an experimental curve which is a convolution of a Lorentzian and a Gaussian. Knowing either the Lorentzian width or the Gaussian width, the other can be extracted in a simple procedure.
How Can the AJCC Staging System Be Improved

Although the current American Joint Commission on Cancer (AJCC) staging system is the most widely used classification scheme for the prognostication of breast cancer, recent work has offered the potential for refinement of this system. Incorporation of grade, lymphovascular invasion, and various biomarkers have all been proposed as options for improvement of primary tumor staging. In addition, there remains controversy regarding optimal staging of lymph node metastases, as the value isolated tumor cells and micrometastases, lymph node ratio, and the value of internal mammary nodes remain at issue. Finally, nuances about the location and number of distant metastases, and the amount of circulating tumor cells may differentiate patients within Stage IV disease. This review highlights recent advances in breast cancer research that may offer insight into potential ways that the AJCC staging system can be improved.
The use of kinetically generated unstable enolate ions in the regiospecific formation of carbonxarbon bonds. Specific applications to annelation processes

It was shown some years ago that lithium enolates of asymmetric ketones are capable of maintaining their structures in reaction with carbon dioxide and with reactive alkyl halides. This, coupled with methods for the regiospecific formation of lithium enolates, was a considerable step forward. It was not, however, until recently that we succeeded in carrying out aldol and Michael condensations with regiospecifically produced lithium enolates. We will review the development of these methods, which now permit a general solution to the problem of regiospecific formation of carbon-carbon bonds.
Vasectomy-induced autoimmunity: antisperm and antinuclear autoimmune monoclonal antibodies.

Antibodies to sperm and testicular autoantigens are a hallmark of vasectomy-induced murine autoimmunity. The authors generated 5 autoimmune monoclonal antibodies with spleen cells from nonimmunized but vasectomized BDF1 male mice as fusion partners in 2 experiments. 4 of the antibodies designated Vx4 Vx8 Vx10 and Vx23 recognize as determined by fluorescence microscopy topographically restricted sperm-specific antigenic determinants that appear in the germinal epithelium as spermatogenesis progresses. Antibodies Vx8 and Vx10 identified 60000 and 97000 dalton mouse-specific sperm antigens restricted to the anterior acrosome and posterior acrosome respectively. Antibody Vx23 identified a 35000-40000 dalton antigen on the midpiece and postacrosomal regions of epididymal mouse sperm. The antigenic target of antibody Vx4 on the midpiece region could be identified with the Western blot technique. Both Vx4 and Vx23 crossreacted with human rabbit and monkey sperm; immunofluorescence revealed that they were bound onto the midpiece region. By immunofluorescence a single clone (Vx24) distinctly reacted with the nuolei of somatic and testicular germ cells but not the nuclei of sperm. The isolation of this antinuclear autoantibody raises questions about the development of nonsperm-specific autoantibodies after vasectomy in the mouse. (authors)
Sphingosine-1-phosphate stimulates motility and invasiveness of human glioblastoma multiforme cells

Abstract Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive lipid which is a potent mitogen for glioblastoma multiforme cells. Here we show that S1P also potently enhances the in vitro motility of glioblastoma cells by signaling through receptors coupled to G i/o proteins. Moreover, S1P also enhanced in vitro invasion of glioblastoma cells through Matrigel. S1P had no effect on matrix metalloproteinase secretion but did enhance glioblastoma cell adhesion. S1P is present at high levels in brain tissue. Thus it is possible that autocrine or paracrine signaling by S1P through its G protein-coupled receptors enhances both glioma cell proliferation and invasiveness.
Local heat/mass transfer distribution in a square channel with full and V-shaped ribs

Abstract Naphthalene sublimation experiments have been conducted to study the turbulent heat/mass transfer characteristics of airflow in a square channel, in which two opposite walls are roughened with aligned arrays of full ribs and V-shaped ribs. The detailed distributions of the local heat/mass transfer coefficient on the ribbed walls and on the smooth walls are obtained. Results show that there are significant spanwise as well as streamwise variations of the local heat/mass transfer coefficient on the exposed surfaces of the ribbed walls in the oblique full rib and V-shaped rib cases.
New Types of Glycolipids from the Surface Lipids of Nicotiana umbratica

The surface lipids of Nicotiana umbratica contained several varieties of glycolipids. Three types of glucose esters and five types of sucrose esters were isolated and identified from this species. These glycolipids contained short-chain fatty acids such as acetic, methylpropionic, methylbutyric, 3-methylpentanoic, 4-methylpentanoic and methylhexanoic acids. The acetylated positions of each compound were determined by 2-D NMR, using the HMBC technique. The structures of the glucose esters were 1,6-di-O-acetyl-2,3-4-tri-O-acyl-alpha-D-glucopyranose (I), 6-O-acetyl-2,3,4-tri-O-acyl-alpha-D-glucopyranose (II) and 2,3,4-tri-O-acyl-alpha, beta-D-glucopyranose (III). The structures of the sucrose esters were 6-O-acetyl-2,3,4-tri-O-acyl-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-1,3-di-O-acetyl-beta- D- fructofuranoside (IV), 2,3,4-tri-O-acyl-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-1,3-di-O-acetyl-beta-D-fructofur anoside (V), 6-O-acetyl-2,4-di-O-acyl-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-3-O-acetyl-beta-D- fructofuranoside (VI), 2,3,4-tri-O-acyl-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-3-O-acetyl-beta-D-fructofuranosi de 2,3,4-tri-O-acyl-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-3-O-acetyl-beta-D-fructofuranosi de (VII) and 2,3,4-tri-O-acyl-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-beta-D-fructofuranoside (VIII). Among them, I, IV, V and VI were isolated for the first time from plants of the family Solanaceae. These newly isolated glycolipids were inhibitory against barnyardgrass growth.
Supercontinents and superplume events: distinguishing signals in the geologic record

Abstract Simultaneous supercontinent and superplume events may reinforce or cancel signals preserved in the geologic record. Alternatively, one signal may overwhelm the other. For instance, relatively low sea level during a 2.7-Ga superplume/supercontinent event may reflect direct hits of superplumes beneath the supercontinent. Although both supercontinent formation and superplume events occurred at 0.28, 1.9 and 2.7 Ga, global warming at these times indicates the dominance of superplume events in controlling climate. Enhanced deposition of black shales correlates with superplume events and with supercontinent breakup. Carbon isotopes in seawater, however, show positive excursions during supercontinent breakup at 2.2–2.1 and 0.8–0.6 Ga, but show mixed signals or no signal during other supercontinent or superplume events, probably due to negative feedbacks. Peaks in marine organism originations at 100, 280, and 480 Ma correlate with possible superplume events, whereas an overall decrease in origination rate in the early Paleozoic correlates with the growth of Pangea and destruction of shallow marine environments. Increased production rates of juvenile crust correlate with formation of supercontinents and with superplume events. There may be two types of superplume events: catastrophic events, which are short-lived (
A Meta-Analysis of the Predictive Validity of the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and Undergraduate Grade Point Average (UGPA) for Graduate Student Academic Performance.

Considerable debate both within and outside of academic circles surrounds the validity of standardized tests for predicting student performance in graduate business schools. This meta-analysis aggr...
Photoconductivity studies of treated CdSe quantum dot films exhibiting increased exciton ionization efficiency

We present measurements of photoconductivity in CdSe quantum dot films treated with a variety of reagents. While the photocurrent of untreated samples is highly voltage dependent at all voltages, after treatment the photocurrent is much larger, depends strongly on voltage at low voltage, displays a linear region above a voltage threshold, and finally saturates at high voltage. All regions of the current-voltage curves after treatment can be reproduced with a model that requires noninjecting contacts and a field dependent exciton ionization efficiency that saturates to unity. This model is shown to be consistent with the trends observed with different treatments. The changes in photocurrent with treatment are shown to be largely a consequence of increased quantum dot surface passivation and decreased quantum dot spacing, regardless of whether the molecules used for treatment are conjugated or able to cross-link the quantum dots.
TRADING ON THE INTERNET

1. The changing landscape. We all know that the Internet is dynamic and is growing at a phenomenal rate. It is pervasive and what we thought of it six months ago is probably different to what we think today and what we will think of it in six months time. It is challenging all our previous thinking and our commercial environment.
Oxygen treatment with special reference to treatment of complications incident to goiter

Abstract We believe that the therapeutic administration of oxygen by means of the chamber or tent is most helpful in a restricted group of cases, such as postoperative pulmonary edema, bronchopneumonia, and respiratory obstruction. The patients who show most marked benefit are those with evidence of anoxemia, or of impending anoxemia. Treatment should be begun as early as is possible, as in many instances the progress of pulmonary edema to pneumonia probably can be averted. Treatment should be continuous, or as nearly continuous as possible, until the pathologic process is well controlled. Binger and others have called attention to the deleterious effects of oxygen concentrations of 70 per cent or more. We have not raised the oxygen above 60 per cent for more than a few hours at a time. From these concentrations we have not seen harmful effect. Treatment with oxygen can be carried out more efficiently in oxygen chambers than in oxygen tents, although excellent results can be obtained in tents properly manipulated. We do not know that the life of any individual patient has been saved by oxygen treatment; however, we believe that at least an occasional patient is saved when marked lowering of the temperature and increased comfort can be secured in such a large series of patients who are seriously ill. Our results not only warrant the continuation of this method of treatment but indicate the advisability of more general adoption of efficient methods of the administration of oxygen in those diseases known to be benefited by its use. The patients who obtain the greatest benefit are those with postoperative pulmonary edema, bronchopneumonia, or respiratory obstruction accompanied by cyanosis or impending cyanosis.
Operative indications in recurrent ileocolic intussusception.

Abstract Background Air-contrast enema (ACE) is standard treatment for primary ileocolic intussusception. Management of recurrences is less clear. This study aimed to delineate appropriate therapy by quantifying the relationship between recurrence and need for bowel resection, pathologic lead points (PLP), and complication rates. Methods After IRB approval, a single institution review of patients with ileocolic intussusception from 1997 to 2013 was performed, noting recurrences, outcomes, and complications. Fisher's exact and t-tests were used. Results Of 716 intussusceptions, 666 were ileocecal. Forty-four underwent bowel resection, with 29 PLPs and 9 ischemia/perforation. Recurrence after ACE occurred in 96 (14%). Recurrence did not predict PLP (P=0.25). Recurrence (≥3) was associated with higher resection rate (P=0.03), but not ischemia/perforation (P=0.75). ACE-related complications occurred in 4 (0.5%) patients. Successful initial ACE had 98% negative predictive value for resection and PLP (e.g., after successful ACE, 2% had resections, 2% PLP). After failed initial ACE, 36% received resection, and 23% had PLP (P Conclusions Recurrence is associated with a greater risk of resection but not PLP or ACE-complication. Failed ACE is associated with increased risk for harboring PLP and receiving resection. ACE should be the standard treatment in recurrent intussusception, regardless of number of recurrences.
A historiometric analysis of leadership in mission critical multiteam environments

Abstract Perhaps nowhere are leaders more pivotal than in the extreme contexts of responding to the aftermath of natural disasters or orchestrating post-war stability, support, transition, and reconstruction efforts. In the current study, historiometric methods were employed in order to elucidate the aspects of leadership essential in these extreme contexts. These contexts were chosen for two reasons: (1) they capture the external networking required of many complex organizational tasks and (2) they are mission critical – the outcomes of leadership in these contexts are of great importance. One hundred and ten critical incidents were written describing instances of effective and ineffective interaction within these systems, and 55 of them were classified as primarily describing leadership issues. Critical incidents were then sorted, translated, and retranslated in order to inductively derive a set of leader functions essential for orchestrating effort in mission critical multiteam contexts.
Diffuse Metabolic Abnormalities in Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome

Two cases of reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome were examined with proton MR spectroscopic imaging. Widespread metabolic abnormalities, consisting of increased choline and creatine levels and mildly decreased N-acetylaspartate, occurred in regions with both normal and abnormal MR imaging appearances. In one case for which proton MR spectroscopic imaging follow-up was available, all metabolite levels had returned to normal by 2 months. Proton MR spectroscopic imaging may be helpful for the diagnosis and investigation of the underlying pathophysiology of reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome.
The Atmospheres of Icy Bodies

Ices are considered as the major volatile-carrying solid in the outer solar system. As such, they play a major role in forming atmospheres of icy satellites and the comas of comets and they have probably contributed to the enrichment of heavy elements in outer planet atmospheres. A possible role for clathrate hydrates in causing the activity of distant comets and sub-surface processes on icy satellites seems worthy of further study.
The mechanics of fine manipulation by pushing

The author presents a method for determining the possible instantaneous motions of a sliding object during multiple contact pushing. The approach consists of two components: a kinematic analysis considering kinematic motion constraints, and a force analysis considering force constraints on the motion. A representation of the support friction of a sliding object is presented, and the results of the force analysis are independent of the exact support distribution of the object. The analysis results in a manipulation primitive: stable rotational pushing. This primitive may be used for precise placement operations by pushing. >
Multi-Agent Consensus Using Both Current and Outdated States with Fixed and Undirected Interaction

We propose a distributed consensus algorithm for multi-agent systems. In contrast to the standard consensus algorithm that relies on only current states, the proposed algorithm uses both current states and outdated states stored in memory. The proposed algorithm is analyzed under an undirected communication graph. It is shown that the proposed algorithm converges faster than the standard consensus algorithm while requiring identical maximum control effort if the outdated states are chosen properly. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Factors promoting diabetes self-care among low-income, minority pregnant women.

Objective To prospectively identify factors promoting healthy self-management of gestational and type 2 diabetes mellitus among underserved pregnant women. Study design Twenty-nine in-depth, semi-structured interviews were performed over the course of pregnancy for 10 women with diabetes. Interviews on factors promoting diabetes self-management used cognitive load theory to frame questions. Qualitative analysis of longitudinal interview data applied grounded theory techniques to generate themes. Result Half this cohort of minority, low-income, public aid-supported women had type 2 diabetes. Four themes, comprised of both internal self-driven motivators and external sources of support, were identified. These themes were: (1) disease familiarity and diabetes self-efficacy; (2) external motivation (for health of fetus and responsibilities to older children); (3) supportive social and physical environment; and (4) self-regulatory behavior, including goal responsiveness and long-term goal-setting. Conclusion Low-income women used multiple internal and external resources to promote health during a pregnancy complicated by diabetes. Successful behavior modification and achievement of diabetes care goals require leveraging these resources.
MRI study of cerebral blood flow and CSF flow dynamics in an upright posture: the effect of posture on the intracranial compliance and pressure

Postural related changes in cerebral hemodynamics and hydrodynamics were studied using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) measurements of cerebral blood flow and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow dynamics. Ten healthy volunteers (mean age 29 ± 7) were studied in supine and upright (sitting) postures. A Cine phase-contrast MRI technique was used to image the pulsatile blood flow to the brain, the venous outflow through the internal jugular, epidural, and vertebral veins, and the bi-directional CSF flow between the cranium and the spinal canal. Previously published analyses were applied to calculate and compare total cerebral blood flow (TCBF), intracranial compliance and pressure in both postures. A lower (12%) mean TCBF was measured in the upright position compared to supine position. A considerable smaller amount of CSF flow between the cranium and the spinal canal (58%), a much larger intracranial compliance (a 2.8-fold increase), and a corresponding decrease in the MRI-derived ICP were also measured in the sitting position. These changes suggest that the increased cerebrovascular and intracranial compliances in the upright posture are primarily due to reduced amounts of blood and CSF residing in their respective intracranial compartments in the upright position. This work demonstrates the ability to quantify neurophysiologic parameters associated with regulation of cerebral hemodynamics and hydrodynamics from dynamic MR imaging of blood and CSF flows.
Super-Suppression of Mitochondrial Reactive Oxygen Species Signaling Impairs Compensatory Autophagy in Primary Mitophagic Cardiomyopathy

Rationale:Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in aging, chronic degenerative neurological syndromes, and myopathies. On the basis of free radical hypothesis, dietary, pharmacological, and genetic ROS suppression has been tested to minimize tissue damage, with remarkable therapeutic efficacy. The effects of mitochondrial-specific ROS suppression in primary mitophagic dysfunction are unknown. Objective:An in vivo dose-ranging analysis of ROS suppression in an experimental cardiomyopathy provoked by defective mitochondrial clearance. Methods and Results:Mice lacking mitofusin 2 (Mfn2) in hearts have impaired parkin-mediated mitophagy leading to accumulation of damaged ROS-producing organelles and progressive heart failure. As expected, cardiomyocyte-directed expression of mitochondrial-targeted catalase at modest levels normalized mitochondrial ROS production and prevented mitochondrial depolarization, respiratory impairment, and structural degeneration in Mfn2 null hearts. In contrast...
Estimating Biophysical Parameters of Individual Trees in an Urban Environment Using Small Footprint Discrete-Return Imaging Lidar

Quantification of biophysical parameters of urban trees is important for urban planning, and for assessing carbon sequestration and ecosystem services. Airborne lidar has been used extensively in recent years to estimate biophysical parameters of trees in forested ecosystems. However, similar studies are largely lacking for individual trees in urban landscapes. Prediction models to estimate biophysical parameters such as height, crown area, diameter at breast height, and biomass for over two thousand individual trees were developed using best subsets multiple linear regression for a study area in central Oklahoma, USA using point cloud distributional metrics from an Optech ALTM 2050 lidar system. A high level of accuracy was attained for estimating individual tree height (R2 = 0.89), dbh (R2 = 0.82), crown diameter (R2 = 0.90), and biomass (R2 = 0.67) using lidar-based metrics for pooled data of all tree species. More variance was explained in species-specific estimates of biomass (R2 = 0.68 for Juniperus virginiana to 0.84 for Ulmus parviflora) than in estimates from broadleaf deciduous (R2 = 0.63) and coniferous (R2 = 0.45) taxonomic groups—or the data set analysed as a whole (R2 = 0.67). The metric crown area performed particularly well for most of the species-specific biomass equations, which suggests that tree crowns should be delineated accurately, whether manually or using automatic individual tree detection algorithms, to obtain a good estimation of biomass using lidar-based metrics.
Lung Volume Reduction Surgery Using the NETT Selection Criteria

Background The National Emphysema Treatment Trial (NETT) proved that lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) was safe and effective in patients with certain clinical characteristics and using defined inclusion-exclusion criteria. Based on the selection criteria developed in that trial, we performed bilateral LVRS on 49 patients during the period of February 2004 until May 2009. Methods Forty-nine patients underwent lung volume reduction by either median sternotomy (10) or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (39) selected according to NETT described parameters. Preoperative characteristics were the following: mean (±SD) age 62.5 ± 6.6 years, preoperative FEV 1 (forced expiratory volume in the first second of expiration) 691 cc (± 159), % of predicted FEV 1 25.3 (± 6.2), preoperative Dlco (diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide) 7.6 (± 2.7), and % of predicted DLCO 27% (± 7.3). All patients had upper lobe predominant disease and either low exercise capacity (n = 23) or high exercise capacity (n = 26) as defined by the NETT. Results There was no operative or 90-day mortality. Median length of stay was 8 days (interquartile range=6 to 10). Two patients required reintubation and tracheostomy but were decannulated prior to discharge. The BODE index (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity), a multidimensional predictor of survival in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, improved −2.3 (± 1.5, p 1 improved 286 cc (± 221, p Conclusions Surgical lung volume reduction for emphysema can be performed in patients using selection criteria developed by the NETT with very low surgical risk and excellent midterm results. Surgical LVRS is the standard against which other nonsurgical treatments for advanced emphysema should be judged.
Changes in the social behaviour of drafthorse (Equus caballus) mares coincident with foaling

Abstract It has been suggested that equid mares may undergo significant changes in social behaviour coincident with foaling. To examine this, two herds of drafthorse mares were observed prior to and after foaling. One herd consisted of six Belgian and two Percheron mares; the other consisted of 15 Belgian mares. Using focal animal sampling, a variety of agonistic and affiliative behavioural patterns and spatial relationships were examined. Results indicated no changes in social dominance or agonistic behaviour. There were changes in the patterns of affiliative behaviour among adults. Mares were more likely to make changes in their adult associates after foaling than before, and they were less affiliative to other mares after foaling. Furthermore, new dams put more distance between themselves and other adults and actively socially disengaged themselves from their herd. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that new dams are less socially active post-partum to facilitate the mare-foal bond and to prevent others from interfering with that bond.
Video communications using rapidly reconfigurable hardware

Video coding has been implemented by using rapid reconfiguration to time share hardware for several sequential stages. This allows the chip area to be reduced by a factor proportional to the number of coding stages at the expense of some reconfiguration overhead and the added memory and control needed to implement reconfiguration. The results of this work suggest that run-time reconfiguration is a powerful technique with potential for a wide range of video applications in which temporal algorithm partitioning and rapid adaptivity are feasible and desired.
Thermolysin and mitochondrial processing peptidase: How far structure—functional convergence goes

The structure-functional convergence between two Zn-dependent proteases, namely thermolysin and mitochondrial processing peptidase (MPP), is described. These two families of nonhomologous enzymes show not only functional convergence of several active site residues as in chymotrypsin and subtilisin, but also structural convergence of overall molecular architectures including the beta-sheet arrangement and packing of the surrounding alpha-helices. The major functionally important structural elements are present in both enzymes with different topological connections and often in reverse main-chain orientation, but display similar packing. The structural comparison helps to rationalize sequence "inversion" of the HEXXH thermolysin consensus present as HXXEH in MPP. The described structural convergence may be due to a limited number of alternatives to build a Zn-protease that utilizes hydrogen bonding between a substrate main chain and the enzyme beta-sheet for substrate binding.
Mining and Harnessing Natural Variation: A Little MAGIC

The success of a breeding program depends on having adequate diversity in the germplasm. However, as advanced breeding stocks and materials are generated, one casualty is the diversity itself. As a result, breeding programs in many crop species have reached a point of diminishing returns and it is feared that unless new diversity is infused into the breeding germplasm, we face catastrophic reductions in crop productivity if the climate turns adverse. Although some scientists favor transgenic approaches, a “back to nature” approach to genetic diversity may prove faster and more effective. Wild and exotic relatives of crop plants hold a wealth of alleles that, if we can fi nd them, can help break yield barriers and enhance tolerance to stresses. Many approaches, based largely on quantitative trait loci genetics, have been proposed and used for this purpose, but most are either highly laborious or discover relevant variation ineffi ciently. Here, we propose a gene-centered approach, dubbed MAGIC (mutant-assisted gene identifi cation and characterization), that uses Mendelian mutants or other genetic variants in a trait of interest as reporters to identify novel genes and variants for that trait. MAGIC is similar to enhancer–suppressor screens, but rather than relying on variation created in the laboratory, it reveals variation created and refi ned by nature over millions of years of evolution. This approach could be an effective tool for exploring novel variation and a valuable means to harness natural diversity and defi ne genetic networks.
Mechanism of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Uptake into the Liver: PBDE Congeners Are Substrates of Human Hepatic OATP Transporters

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame-retardants that upon chronic exposure enter the liver where they are biotransformed to potentially toxic metabolites. The mechanism by which PBDEs enter the liver is not known. However, due to their large molecular weights (MWs approximately 485 to 1000 Da), they cannot enter hepatocytes by simple diffusion. Organic anion-transporting polypeptides (OATPs) are responsible for hepatic uptake of a variety of amphipathic compounds of MWs larger than 350 Da. Therefore, in the present study, Chinese hamster ovary cell lines expressing OATP1B1, OATP1B3, and OATP2B1 were used to test the hypothesis that OATPs expressed in human hepatocytes would be responsible for the uptake of PBDE congeners 47, 99, and 153. The results demonstrated that PBDE congeners inhibited OATP1B1- and OATP1B3-mediated uptake of estradiol-17-beta-glucuronide as well as OATP2B1-mediated uptake of estrone-3-sulfate in a concentration-dependent manner. Direct uptake studies confirmed that all three PBDE congeners are substrates for the three tested hepatic OATPs. Detailed kinetic analysis revealed that OATP1B1 transported 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE47) with the highest affinity (K(m) = 0.31 microM) followed by 2,2',4,4',5-pentabromodiphenyl ether (BDE99) (K(m) = 0.91 microM) and 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexabromodiphenyl ether (BDE153) (K(m) = 1.91 microM). For OATP1B3, the order was the same (BDE47: K(m) = 0.41 microM; BDE99: K(m) = 0.70 microM; BDE153: K(m) = 1.66 microM), while OATP2B1 transported all three congeners with similar affinities (BDE47: K(m) = 0.81 microM; BDE99: K(m) = 0.87 microM; BDE153: K(m) = 0.65 microM). These results clearly suggest that uptake of PBDEs via these OATPs is a mechanism responsible for liver-specific accumulation of PBDEs.
TAP-inhibitors from old world primate 1-herpesviruses and their use: WO2009008713.

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) recognize peptide antigens in the context of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. CTL-mediated immunity is important for defense against cancers and virus infections, and thus viruses and tumors have evolved CTL-evasion mechanisms. The transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) is a key factor for MHC class I assembly, and TAP is a frequent target of immune evasion by viruses and tumors. WO2009008713 discloses potential therapeutic uses of TAP inhibitors encoded by Epstein–Barr virus and its lymphocryptovirus (LCV) homologs. In particular, WO2009008713 proposes the use of LCV TAP inhibitors and their combinations with other viral TAP inhibitors to elicit novel categories of CTLs that destroy target cells in which the function of TAP or other components of the MHC class I assembly pathway is inhibited. Alternatively, WO2009008713 proposes the use of LCV TAP inhibitors and their combinations with other viral TAP inhibitors to more efficiently gen...
Joint motion compensated prediction and interpolation of video sequences

A block matching algorithm is presented for joint motion compensated prediction and interpolation that significantly reduces the side-information required to represent the motion vectors (MVs) in video coding compared to a method in which prediction and interpolation MVS are transmitted independently as recommended in the current MPEG standard. This is achieved by exploiting the temporal redundancy in MVs of nearby frames. A distortion measure which jointly evaluates the interpolation and prediction error energy is introduced to determine true MVs. Enhancements to the basic algorithm are provided to accommodate blocks whose motion across multiple frames is not correlated. Simulation results demonstrate that the resultant method provides essentially the same performance as an MPEG type method even for complex video sequences. >
Salt restriction in the treatment of isolated systolic and combined hypertension: is that enough?

The most recent recommendations of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC VII) have emphasized dietary sodium (salt) restriction as a major lifestyle intervention with which to reduce blood pressure in those with “prehypertension” and as adjunctive therapy in combination with antihypertensive drugs in those with established hypertension.1 The benefit of a reduction in salt intake in lowering blood pressure in many, but not all hypertensive subjects, is well known and widely accepted on the basis of numerous trials.2 Nonetheless, debate continues regarding the extent of restriction required and whether all forms of hypertension benefit. He et al, in this issue of Hypertension , provide new insight into the impact of modest salt restriction on blood pressure in those with isolated systolic hypertension, as well as those with combined systolic–diastolic hypertension by reanalyzing data from 4 previous trials that they conducted.3 Among 24 subjects with isolated systolic hypertension and an average age of 63 years, a mean reduction of urinary sodium excretion from 175 to 87 mmol/d for 1 month resulted in an average decrease of 10/1 mm Hg (systolic/diastolic) (baseline 166/86; intervention 156/85) in blood pressure. These findings are similar to much larger drug intervention studies in such subjects demonstrating significant decreases in systolic pressure without appreciable changes in diastolic pressure. Among 88 younger (average age, 55 years) subjects with systolic/diastolic hypertension, a reduction from 175 to 98 mmol/d in average sodium excretion resulted in an …
Beyond Stack Inspection: A Unified Access-Control and Information-Flow Security Model

Modern component-based systems, such as Java and Microsoft .NET common language runtime (CLR), have adopted stack-based access control (SBAC). Its purpose is to use stack inspection to verify that all the code responsible for a security-sensitive action is sufficiently authorized to perform that action. Previous literature has shown that the security model enforced by SBAC is flawed in that stack inspection may allow unauthorized code no longer on the stack to influence the execution of security-sensitive code. A different approach, history-based access control (HBAC), is safe but may prevent authorized code from executing a security-sensitive operation if less trusted code was previously executed. In this paper, we formally introduce information-based access control (IBAC), a novel security model that verifies that all and only the code responsible for a security-sensitive operation is sufficiently authorized. Given an access-control policy a, we present a mechanism to extract from it an implicit integrity policy i, and we prove that IBAC enforces i. Furthermore, we discuss large-scale application code scenarios to which IBAC can be successfully applied.
An exploration hydrogeochemical study at the giant Pebble porphyry Cu-Au-Mo deposit, Alaska, USA, using high resolution ICP-MS

A hydrogeochemical study using high resolution ICP-MS was undertaken at the giant Pebble porphyry Cu-Au-Mo deposit and surrounding mineral occurrences. Surface water and groundwater samples from regional background and the deposit area were collected at 168 sites. Rigorous quality control reveals impressive results at low nanogram per litre (ng/l) levels. Sites with pH values below 5.1 are from ponds in the Pebble West area, where sulphide-bearing rubble crop is thinly covered. Relative to other study area waters, anomalous concentrations of Cu, Cd, K, Ni, Re, the REE, Tl, SO 4 2− and F − are present in water samples from Pebble West. Samples from circum-neutral waters at Pebble East and parts of Pebble West, where cover is much thicker, have anomalous concentrations of Ag, As, In, Mn, Mo, Sb, Th, U, V, and W. Low-level anomalous concentrations for most of these elements were also found in waters surrounding nearby porphyry and skarn mineral occurrences. Many of these elements are present in low ng/l concentration ranges and would not have been detected using traditional quadrupole ICP-MS. Hydrogeochemical exploration paired with high resolution ICP-MS is a powerful new tool in the search for concealed deposits.
A model of Alexander's law of vestibular nystagmus

The observation that the amplitude of vestibular nystagmus grows as gaze is increased in the direction of the nystagmus fast phase and diminished with gaze in the opposite direction is known as "Alexander's law". We have developed an analog computer model to simulate Alexander's law in nystagmus secondary to dysfunction of a semicircular canal. The model utilizes relevant brainstem anatomy and physiology and includes gaze modulation of vestibular signals and push-pull integration to create eye positition commands. When simulating normally functioning semicircular canals, the model produced no nystagmus. When simulating total impairment of the canal on one side with gaze directed maximally in the opposite direction, the model produced a large amplitude nystagmus with linear slow phases directed toward the affected side. As gaze was changed from far contralateral to ipsilateral, the nystagmus gradually diminished to zero. When simulating partial impairment of one canal, the nystagmus was smaller in amplitude and absent in ipsilateral gaze.