cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Results from phase 1 of the HAYSTAC microwave cavity axion experiment

We report on the results from a search for dark matter axions with the HAYSTAC experiment using a microwave cavity detector at frequencies between 5.6 and 5.8 GHz. We exclude axion models with two photon coupling ${g}_{a\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{\gamma}}\ensuremath{\gtrsim}2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}14}\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{GeV}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, a factor of 2.7 above the benchmark KSVZ model over the mass range $23.15l{m}_{a}l24.0\text{ }\text{ }\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{eV}$. This doubles the range reported in our previous paper. We achieve a near-quantum-limited sensitivity by operating at a temperature $Tlh\ensuremath{\nu}/2{k}_{B}$ and incorporating a Josephson parametric amplifier (JPA), with improvements in the cooling of the cavity further reducing the experiment's system noise temperature to only twice the standard quantum limit at its operational frequency, an order of magnitude better than any other dark matter microwave cavity experiment to date. This result concludes the first phase of the HAYSTAC program utilizing a conventional copper cavity and a single JPA.
Information Theory & Statistics

Data mining is about discovering useful information from data. This chapter is devoted to introducing the basic knowledge in information theory and statistics. Readers should be aware that information theory and statistics are useful mathematical tools for data mining. But there are also other approaches for data mining. For example, multivariate data visualization, and understanding the information behind the data from the structure of computational geometry, are two active research areas in data mining [Wong 1999][Inselberg 1994][Beckamn 1995]. Nevertheless, the data mining techniques to be introduced in the subsequent chapters are grounded on information theory, probability and statistics. Thus it is important to have a brief, but sufficient, tutorial in information theory and statistics.
Predicting toxicity of reactive ‘solution’ aluminium using kinetic speciation

We assayed the toxicity of Al by measuring lengths of Medicago sativa roots that formed during 3 to 5 days of equilibration of seeds with swirled solutions. Toxicity of ‘solution’ Al, as evidenced by retarded root growth, was reliably predicted by the rapidly reactive (RR) labile Al, determined using the pyrocatechol violet kinetic speciation method of Bartlett et al. (1987). Compared to the slowly reactive (SR) or the total reactive (TR) values, the RR Al results had fewer irregularities caused by colloidal Al or soluble Al strongly complexed by excess hydroxyl, organic, or phosphate ligands and were much more responsive to differences in Al reactivity that influenced root growth. The Al was not toxic when RR Al tested below 5 μM. The RR test correctly predicted colloidal (Tyndall beam positive) Al phosphate as toxic in some treatments, and in others, non-toxic. Hydroxy Al polymers, formed by the slow titration of AlCl3 with NaOH (presumably including Al13), were clearly toxic, but toxicity was less when pH was increased by added hydroxyls. When the total Al concentration was kept constant, the degree of toxicity was inversely proportional to the pH and directly proportional to the RR Al test values. The pH was not a good predictor of toxicity of hydroxy Al when the Al concentration was varied, and not a good predictor of toxicity of phosphate or citrate Al at either constant or varied Al concentration. Desorption results suggest probable toxicity of any Al species that is adsorbed onto a root under the conditions of this study. The RR Al values appeared to integrate the variables affecting reactivity of Al and produce a clean separation between toxic and not toxic.
Steered Molecular Dynamics

Steered molecular dynamics (SMD) induces unbinding of ligands and conformational changes in biomolecules on time scales accessible to molecular dynamics simulations. Time-dependent external forces are applied to a system, and the responses of the system are analyzed. SMD has already provided important qualitative insights into biologically relevant problems, as demonstrated here for applications ranging from identification of ligand binding pathways to explanation of elastic properties of proteins. First attempts to deduce potentials of mean force by discounting irreversible work performed on the system are summarized. The non-equilibrium statistical mechanics underlying analysis of SMD data is outlined.
Surface manipulation techniques of Roman denarii

Abstract This work presents results of macro, micro, and nanoscale surface characterization for a set of Roman denarii, ranging from 136 BCE to 240 CE, using large-scale X-ray fluorescence (XRF) mapping, particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) spectroscopy, focused-ion-beam-assisted scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The combination of XRF and PIXE, with varying beam energies, allowed for visualization and quantification of individual elements as a function of the surface distribution. These results helped to select suitable areas for FIB-SEM-EDS analysis. The edges of selected coins were polished to image the inner composition and surface morphology of the coins using a backscattering electron (BSE) imaging method and EDS mapping. Nanosized lamellas extracted from the coins were investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) as well. The combination of these methods enabled the surface, the subsurface, and volume composition of these coins to be probed to better understand their production methods, their surface treatment methods, and their corrosion. The results also provide evidence that a particular surface treatment method, amalgam silvering, had been used to make authentic Roman coins as early as the third century CE.
Lessons learned from The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down: Student perspectives on how cultural differences can lead to health disparities:

Objective:The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman is a critically acclaimed book describing the importance of understanding cultural influence on health care and health outcomes. A...
Nonregularity via Ordinal Extensions.

We present a simple new method for proving that languages are not regular. We prove the correctness of the method, illustrate the ease of using the method on well-known examples of nonregular languages, and prove two additional theorems on the power and limitations of the method.
Association of gestational diabetes with child feeding practices: A secondary analysis using data from mother-child dyads in the deep south

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to examine whether mothers with prior gestational diabetes (GDM) used different feeding practices for their children compared to those without prior GDM. We hypothesized that mothers with prior GDM would express a greater concern for their child's weight, and greater monitoring and restrictive feeding practices compared to non-diabetic mothers. Methods Data for this secondary analysis came from studies examining body composition and metabolism in children (aged 4–10 years) born to women with (N = 41) and without (N = 71) GDM. A Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ) was used to assess maternal perception of the child's weight and her feeding practices. Analysis of covariance was used to assess group differences in feeding practices, after adjusting for parent study code, maternal education, child BMI-z, and maternal age. Results In fully adjusted models, mothers with prior GDM did not express greater concern about their children's body weight as compared to those without prior GDM (P = 0.50). Restriction and pressure to eat also did not differ by group, and women with prior GDM reported less monitoring of their children's intake as compared to those without prior GDM (P Conclusion There is no evidence from this study that women with prior GDM are more concerned about their children's body weight or endorse more restrictive feeding practices than do those without prior GDM. Future research should investigate whether women with prior GDM are aware that their children have greater risk for obesity and comorbid health problems, and develop interventions to support parents in efforts to mitigate this risk.
Characterizing the adverse dermatologic effects of hydroxychloroquine: A systematic review

Background Hydroxychloroquine is associated with myriad adverse dermatologic effects, most of which are poorly characterized by the literature, with unknown frequencies and risk factors. Objective To conduct a systematic review of the adverse dermatologic effects and predisposing factors of hydroxychloroquine toxicity. Results The review included 94 articles comprising 689 dermatologic adverse effects. A total of 21 unique dermatologic reactions were reported, most commonly drug eruption or rash (358 cases), cutaneous hyperpigmentation (116), pruritus (62), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (27), Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis (26), hair loss (12), and stomatitis (11). Almost all underlying conditions were rheumatologic or autoimmune in nature, composed primarily of lupus erythematous (72% of all cases) and rheumatoid arthritis (14%). The range of reported mean cumulative dosages was wide, with some adverse reactions found after as little as 3 g or as much as 2500 g. Limitations Dermatologic adverse events and primary diagnoses related to the use of hydroxychloroquine may be under-reported as only case reports and clinical trials that reported at least 1 dermatologic adverse effect were included. Conclusion Although hydroxychloroquine is generally well tolerated, dermatologic adverse effects involving the skin, hair, or nails are a frequent and significant complication. Most of these reactions occurred after treatment of autoimmune conditions, often manifesting on the skin after a wide range of cumulative dosages.
Computational Methods for Single-Cell RNA Sequencing

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has provided a high-dimensional catalog of millions of cells across species and diseases. These data have spurred the development of hundreds of computational...
Value or Quality? Differences in Airlines’ Customer Satisfaction Strategies across National Markets

Global strategists suggest to deploy a value for money strategy both in emerging and developed markets. This study uses reviews from 24,926 airline passengers across 29 countries, and investigates ...
An Unbalanced Sinuous Antenna for Near-Surface Polarimetric Ground-Penetrating Radar

Sinuous antennas are capable of producing ultra-wideband radiation with polarization diversity. This capability makes the sinuous antenna an attractive candidate for UWB polarimetric radar applications. Additionally, the ability of the sinuous antenna to be implemented as a planar structure makes it a good fit for close-in sensing applications such as ground-penetrating radar (GPR). In this work, each arm of a four-port sinuous antenna is operated independently to achieve a quasi-monostatic antenna system capable of polarimetry while separating transmit and receive channels-which is often desirable in GPR systems. The quasi-monostatic configuration of the sinuous antenna reduces system size as well as prevents extreme bistatic angles, which may significantly reduce sensitivity when attempting to detect near-surface targets. A prototype four-port sinuous antenna is fabricated and integrated into a GPR testbed. The polarimetric data obtained with the antenna is then used to distinguish between buried target symmetries.
Efficient 2.8-µm Er-doped Fluoride Fiber Laser Pumped at ~1.5 µm into the Terminal Laser Level

2.3 W of CW power at 2.8 µm has been achieved at slope efficiency of 13% wrt absorbed pump power in this first demonstration of an Er-doped fluoride fiber laser pumped at ~1.5 µm.
Adjunctive Endovascular Tools

Advancements in the field of endovascular technology have resulted in the development of several tools that can be of immense help to the endovascular operator. This chapter focuses on two such technologies: intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and embolic protection devices (EPDs). The text details the indications for using them, the most commonly used types of these devices, and their technical details.
Wireless Sensor Networks

Smart environments represent the next evolutionary development step in building, utilities, industrial, home, shipboard, and transportation systems automation. Like any sentient organism, the smart environment relies first and foremost on sensory data from the real world. Sensory data comes from multiple sensors of different modalities in distributed locations. The smart environment needs information about its surroundings as well as about its internal workings; this is captured in biological systems by the distinction between exteroceptors and proprioceptors.
Foster Care Placement

Chapter 9 provides a description of the various types of placement options (e.g., relative/kinship, nonrelative family placement, in-home, congregate care, etc.) and the frequency and trends related to placement. This chapter discusses policies that inform placement options and decision-making. The chapter describes child removal and placement process. This chapter also discusses the importance of placement in least restrictive environments, with siblings, with family/kin, culturally appropriate settings, and in homes closest to a child’s neighborhood and school. It provides research about placement stability and strategies for finding and promoting the best placements based on the child’s needs. It describes the process of recruiting, training, and licensing foster parents.
The high temperature superconductivity space experiment

The history and the current status of the high temperature superconductivity space experiment (HTSSE) initiated in 1988 are briefly reviewed. The goal of the HTSSE program is to demonstrate the feasibility of incorporating high temperature superconductivity (HTS) technology into space systems. The anticipated payoffs include the development of high temperature superconductor devices for space systems; preparation and space qualification of a cryogenically cooled experimental package containing HTS devices and components; and acquisition of data for future space experiments using more complex HTS devices and subsystems. The principal HTSSE systems and devices are described.
CombPDX: a unified statistical framework for evaluating drug synergism in patient-derived xenografts

MotivationAnticancer combination therapy has been developed to increase efficacy by enhancing synergy. Patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) have emerged as reliable preclinical models to develop effective treatments in translational cancer research. However, in most PDX combination experiments, PDXs are tested on single dose levels and dose-response surface methods are not applicable for testing synergism. ResultsWe propose a comprehensive statistical framework to assess joint action of drug combinations from PDX tumor growth curve data. We provide various metrics and robust statistical inference procedures that locally (at a fixed time) and globally (across time) access combination effects under classical drug interaction models. Integrating genomic and pharmacological profiles in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), we have shown the utilities of combPDX in discovering effective therapeutic combinations and relevant biological mechanisms. AvailabilityWe provide an interactive web server, combPDX (https://licaih.shinyapps.io/CombPDX/), to analyze PDX tumor growth curve data and perform power analyses. ContactMJHa@mdanderson.org Supplementary informationSupplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Amplification of a Bacteriophage Library

This protocol may be used for genomic DNA or cDNA libraries. A freshly packaged and titered library is adsorbed to log phase plating bacteria. The mixture is then plated at high density and allowed to grow until the plaques are just subconfluent. The phage are eluted from the plate by overnight incubation with phage buffer and the library is titered and stored.
Foreword (Special Issue on Sustainable Development Solutions)

I am delighted to contribute a foreword for a selection of Papers from the 2013 International Conference on Sustainable Development Practice (ICSDP), which was held at Columbia University, New York, in September 2013. This special issue of The Economic and Social Review comes at an important and exciting juncture in our collective work as we strive to achieve the Millennium Development Goals and to craft the post-2015 development agenda.
Abstract T MP111: Gpr124 Regulates Post-Stroke Cerebrovascular Integrity

Introduction: GPR124/TEM5 is an orphan G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) with a large extracellular domain. We and others have previously demonstrated that GPR124 exerts CNS-specific angiogenesis regulation with knockout mice exhibiting embryonic lethality from hemorrhagic glomeruloid vascular malformations in forebrain and neural tube (c.f. Kuhnert et al., Science , Nov 12;330(6006):985-9 . (2010)). Hypothesis: GPR124 regulates adult angiogenesis and blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity during homeostasis or after stroke. Methods: To bypass GPR124 embryonic lethality, we generated GPR124 conditional knockout (cko) mice allowing temporally-regulated deletion. Tamoxifen treatment of GPR124flox/-; ROSA-CreER mice versus GPR124flox/+; ROSA-CreER littermate controls allowed GPR124 cko versus heterozygosity, respectively, in adult mice. GPR124 deletion was followed by analyses of microvascular structure and patterning and blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity). GPR124 cko mice versus controls were also subjected to 60 minute middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and effects on stroke volume, survival and microvascular structure assessed. Results: GPR124 deletion in neonatal or adult mice was well-tolerated without impairment of postnatal vascular patterning, BBB maturation or BBB integrity. However, GPR124 cko mice subjected to the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) stroke model exhibited impaired survival and a profound microvascular hemorrhagic transformation that was confined to the infarct region relative to wild-type controls. GPR124 cko stroke vasculature also exhibited numerous cellular and architectural defects relative to controls that will be discussed. Conclusions: GPR124 deletion is well tolerated in adult mice but results in marked hemorrhagic transformation in the MCAO stroke model. GPR124 represents a novel receptor whose function is essential for cerebrovascular integrity in the post-stroke setting, with attendant therapeutic implications.
Modification of the deltopectoral flap for pharyngoesophageal reconstruction

These modifications minimize flap loss, fistulae, and stenosis, and make the final stage easier to perform. The need for periodic dilation with Maloney dilators may be required; however, we do not consider this a significant complication. The goal is a predictable result with a low complication rate so that oral feedings can begin 5 weeks after laryngopharyngectomy, and postoperative radiotherapy may be started at 6 weeks. The need for three stages may appear excessive; however, three planned stages are better than three or more unplanned stages that result in flap loss or dehiscence.
Analog modeling of glucagon-induced autophagy in rat liver. I. Conceptual and mathematical model of telolysosome-autophagosome-autolysosome interaction.

Abstract To define more precisely the telolysosome-autophagosome-autolysosome interaction during glucagon-induced autophagy in rat liver, a conceptual and mathematical model has been developed as the first step in simulation of particle behavior during the autophagic response. The present first approximation model is based on previous experimental studies, collision theory and chemical kinetics. An examination of model formulation has revealed no serious difficulties in the assumptions made and further refinement seems possible with the development of methods for quantitatively evaluating specific particle populations.
Automated classification of interplanetary dust particles: Johnson Space Center Cosmic Dust Catalog Volume 15

Abstract– The “Cosmic Dust Catalog,” published by the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC), describes thousands of interplanetary dust particles subjected to preliminary analysis and with labels indicating their origin. However, only about 80% of the particles are assigned unambiguous labels, the labels of the remaining 20% being uncertain. In addition, the Stardust mission results opened up the possibility that some particles classified as terrestrial contaminants are instead of cosmic (cometary) origin. In this article, we present a methodology for automatic classification of particles on the basis of similarity of their X-ray energy dispersive spectrometry spectra. The method is applied to the 467 particles constituting Volume 15 of the catalog. A first part of the analysis is to digitize the spectra from their scanned images. The digitized spectra are subjected to agglomerative clustering, which reveals 16 distinct clusters or compositional types of particles. The Sammon’s map is used to visualize the relationship between different clusters; 6 clusters corresponding to cosmic particles and 10 clusters corresponding to terrestrial contaminants are clearly separated on the map indicating overall differences between diverse spectra of cosmic and terrestrial particles. By reconciling labels with the clustering structures, we propose the relabeling of 155 particles including the relabeling of 31 terrestrial contaminants into cosmic particles. The proposed relabeling needs to be confirmed by in-depth study of these particles. The paucity of particles with firmly determined cometary or asteroidal origin makes it difficult to establish whether the spectra based autoclassification can be utilized to discriminate between cometary and asteroidal particles. The methodology presented here can be used to classify all particles published in the catalog, as well as different samples for which comparable spectra are available.
View Discovery in OLAP Databases through Statistical Combinatorial Optimization

The capability of OLAP database software systems to handle data complexity comes at a high price for analysts, presenting them a combinatorially vast space of views of a relational database. We respond to the need to deploy technologies sufficient to allow users to guide themselves to areas of local structure by casting the space of "views" of an OLAP database as a combinatorial object of all projections and subsets, and "view discovery" as an search process over that lattice. We equip the view lattice with statistical information theoretical measures sufficient to support a combinatorial optimization process. We outline "hop-chaining" as a particular view discovery algorithm over this object, wherein users are guided across a permutation of the dimensions by searching for successive two-dimensional views, pushing seen dimensions into an increasingly large background filter in a "spiraling" search process. We illustrate this work in the context of data cubes recording summary statistics for radiation portal monitors at US ports.
Nonlinear Control Structures for Chemical Reactors

A nonlinear feedback controller for chemical reaction dynamic systems is examined in which the control action is a function of the deviation of the reaction rate from steady state. The motivations for this controller are (i) the finding that the reaction rate sensitivity to composition and temperature deviations is closely associated with the slow or unstable dynamic modes for the reaction systems studied to date; (ii) the controller nonlinearity mirrors the principal process nonlinearity; and (iii) such a control law is intuitively meaningful. In this paper, we develop the controller and propose a nonlinear analysis method for an idealized model of the continuous stirred tank reactor.
Effects of a random noisy oracle on search algorithm complexity

Grover's algorithm provides a quadratic speed-up over classical algorithms for unstructured database or library searches. This paper examines the robustness of Grover's search algorithm to a random phase error in the oracle and analyzes the complexity of the search process as a function of the scaling of the oracle error with database or library size. Both the discrete- and continuous-time implementations of the search algorithm are investigated. It is shown that unless the oracle phase error scales as ${O(N}^{\ensuremath{-}1/4}),$ neither the discrete- nor the continuous-time implementation of Grover's algorithm is scalably robust to this error in the absence of error correction.
Variational Bounds and Sensitivity Analysis of TrafficProcesses in Continuous Flow Models

This paper is concerned with functional variations in processes associated with Continuous Flow Models (CFMs). The considered CFMs are characterized (defined) by their inflow-rate process, service-rate process, and buffer size, and have associated with them various derived processes such as the workload (buffer contents), outflow and overflow processes. The paper's main result is comprised of Lipchitz continuity of the mappings between the defining processes and the derived processes. This result is extended from single-flow CFMs to multi-flow CFMs, where it is used to establish the unbiasedness of IPA for workload-related and loss-related performance functions.
Reduction of order, periodicity and boundedness in a class of nonlinear, higher order difference equations

Non-autonomous, higher order difference equations of type x"n"+"[email protected]?i=0ka"ix"n"-"i+g"n(@?i=0kb"ix"n"-"i) with real variables and parameters have appeared frequently in the literature. We extend some recent results on semiconjugate factorization and reduction of order to cases where characteristic polynomials of the linear expressions @?"i"="0^ka"iu"i and @?"i"="0^kb"iu"i have complex roots. This extension yields new results on boundedness and existence of periodic solutions for equations of order 3 or greater.
The Amino Acid Specificity for Activation of Phenylalanine Hydroxylase Matches the Specificity for Stabilization of Regulatory Domain Dimers

Liver phenylalanine hydroxylase is allosterically activated by phenylalanine. The structural changes that accompany activation have not been identified, but recent studies of the effects of phenylalanine on the isolated regulatory domain of the enzyme support a model in which phenylalanine binding promotes regulatory domain dimerization. Such a model predicts that compounds that stabilize the regulatory domain dimer will also activate the enzyme. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and analytical ultracentrifugation were used to determine the ability of different amino acids and phenylalanine analogues to stabilize the regulatory domain dimer. The abilities of these compounds to activate the enzyme were analyzed by measuring their effects on the fluorescence change that accompanies activation and on the activity directly. At concentrations of 10-50 mM, d-phenylalanine, l-methionine, l-norleucine, and (S)-2-amino-3-phenyl-1-propanol were able to activate the enzyme to the same extent as 1 mM l-phenylalanine. Lower levels of activation were seen with l-4-aminophenylalanine, l-leucine, l-isoleucine, and 3-phenylpropionate. The ability of these compounds to stabilize the regulatory domain dimer agreed with their ability to activate the enzyme. These results support a model in which allosteric activation of phenylalanine hydroxylase is linked to dimerization of regulatory domains.
Integrated modeling and design of a space-based interferometer test bed

A program for integrated modeling of advanced optical systems for space missions and its motivation are discussed. Application to space-based interferometry is described. >
Ultragram: a generalized holographic stereogram

A method for producing holographic stereograms with reduced geometrical constraints is presented. The type of holographic stereogram produced, called the ULTRAGRAM, can offer a combination of large viewing zone, arbitrary viewing distance, minimal image distortion, and high spatial resolution, depending on alterable parameters in the image processing software. Computer-based image processing techniques are used to mimic the effect of optical devices while permitting simple re-configurability. The ULTRAGRAM holographic exposure apparatus can be built with reduced attention to the final viewing geometry. An astigmatic computer graphics camera design greatly simplifies image generation. The techniques described are applicable to both one and multi-step stereograms, optical predistortion methods, and both horizontal and full-parallax systems.
An agent approach to security in pervasive environments

Research Overview Information technology is slowly becoming invisible and will eventually be completely integrated into the environment. Computers will soon become part of a network, connecting all devices from lamps, projectors, and printers to laptops, PDAs and cellphones. The number of computationally enabled devices will increase exponentially and people will be able to access these resources and perform computing operations anytime, and anywhere, through this integrated network known as ubiquitous/pervasive computing (Weiser 1991) (Satyanarayanan 2001). In these loosely coupled, highly dynamic environments, users will be able to move around and still be connected to this network of resources, which themselves will be constantly changing. As resources will be mutable, frequently changing their parameters like location, functionality, interoperability, accessing them uniformly will be difficult. Users will also be dynamic; moving in and out of range, using different devices for accessing the environment, and using different identities. Traditionally, stand-alone computers and small networks rely on user authentication and access control to provide security. These physical methods use system-based controls to verify the identity of a person or process, explicitly enabling or restricting the ability to use, change, or view a computer resource. However the existing security mechanisms fail to meet the requirements of pervasive systems, which include authenticating foreign users and providing authorization to a large number of entities in the absence of a central control or repository. Our research proposes to model pervasive systems using agent technologies and to use principles of distributed trust management as an alternative to traditional authentication and access control schemes. Pervasive systems suffer from several problems like service description and discovery, and negotiation for services, which have elegant interpretations in agent technologies. We believe that pervasive systems will greatly benefit from the adoption of these interpretations, as it will not only reduce development time, but also provide comprehensive and sophisticated solutions. Distributed trust management is similar to the way security is handled in human societies, where people are judged on their abilities, assets and relationships. The basis for
Levamisole in steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome of childhood: the lost paradise?

Among the different drugs used for sparing steroids in steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) with frequent relapses and steroid dependency, levamisole is the least toxic and the least expensive. However, it is neither approved for this indication nor widely used in Europe. This may be explained by the difficulty in obtaining levamisole in some countries and the lack of good quality evidence for its effectiveness. Evidence is limited to three clinical trials that all suffered from methodological limitations. Statistical synthesis of these trials showed that levamisole reduces the risk of a relapse during treatment (relative risk 0.60, 95% confidence interval 0.45–0.79). From the available information, no conclusions can be drawn on the steroid-sparing effect, the long-term efficacy, and safety, as well as possible differences in efficacy in different subgroups of SSNS patients. The confirmation of a favorable effect of levamisole on the reduction of the frequency of relapses and on sparing steroids in an adequately powered, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, multi-center clinical trial will promote consensus on the place of levamisole in the treatment of SSNS of childhood. Follow-up should be at least 1 year to evaluate long-term efficacy and side effects. If the results of such a clinical trial confirm the beneficial effects of levamisole in nephrotic syndrome, this may allow registration for this indication and interest companies other than Jansen-Cilag, which only recently has decided to stop its production.
Catalytic oxidation of silicon nitride thin films using potassium

Thin silicon nitride films on a Si(100) substrate have been oxidized using potassium in a low thermal budget process. The presence of potassium on the Si/sub 3/N/sub 4/ surface greatly lowers the temperature-time requirements for oxidation as compared with direct thermal oxidation. 6 refs., 1 fig.
A large, high-speed memory buffer for high energy physics data

Abstract Many high-data-rate experiments in elementary particle physics suffer large dead-times due to the slow speeds with which the on-line computer can read in data from each event. To eliminate this bottle-neck, we have designed, constructed, and made extensive use in a physics experiment of a 4 megabyte memory buffer which employs ordinary dynamic RAM memory chips and which accepts all of our event data generated during a beam spill at Fermilab at a rate of 14 Mbyte per second.
Effects of High Electrolyte Concentrations on the Solubilization of 6-p-Toluidino-2-naphthalene Sulfonate in Octyl Glucoside Micelles: Salting-Out and Interfacial Free Energy Effects1

The micelle−water partition coefficients, Kp, of the fluorescent probe 6-p-toluidino-2-naphthalene sulfonate (TNS) solubilized in micelles of octyl glucoside have been determined in the presence of two added electrolytes up to high concentrations, 0−4 M for NaCl and 0−6.6 M for LiCl. Analysis of the fluorescence data indicates that high electrolyte concentrations may induce a change in the nature of the micelles at high micellar concentrations. Kp values were determined close to the critical micellization concentrations. Kp values increased significantly as electrolyte concentration increased, by a factor of up to 19.6 at 4 M NaCl and 6.7 at 6.6 M NaCl. A theoretical approach was developed based on the salting-out of the hydrophobic groups of the free TNS in aqueous solution and the effects of electrolytes on the interfacial tension of these same hydrophobic groups of solubilized TNS expected to be located at the micelle−water interface. On the basis of some literature data on the salting-out coefficients...
Political language in Italy and Great Britain

Abstract Patrick McCarthy underlined the role of political language in the crisis of the Italian Republic. It was both a reflection of the crisis and an active agent of political change. A study of Berlusconi's political language reveals the importance of his new, simplified style of political communication in the creation of his party Forza Italia and of his own personal charisma. He has been able to adapt his rhetoric to changing political circumstances and to different publics. Romano Prodi was successful in 1996 in constructing his image as the ‘anti-Berlusconi’, and Walter Veltroni also broke with the old style of hermetic political discourse acknowledging the inspiration both of Robert Kennedy and Tony Blair, but the language of the centre-left in recent years has generally failed to convey a clear message and has perpetuated obscurity in order to conceal its internal divisions. A comparison with the political language of Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair reveals interesting similarities and differen...
6-Methoxy-2-benzoxazolinone Synthesis in 1, 3-Butanediol

Synthesis of 6-methoxy-2-benzoxazolinone (MBOA) has been accomplished with a significantly improved yield by condensation of excess 2-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenylammonium chloride with urea in 1,3-butanediol solvent. The condensation occurs readily even in 50-mg or 100-mg batches enabling a convenient preparation of [14C] MBOA.
Measuring collective cell movement and extracellular matrix interactions using magnetic resonance imaging

Collective cell behaviors in migration and force generation were studied at the mesoscopic-level using cells grown in a 3D extracellular matrix (ECM) simulating tissues. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was applied to investigate dynamic cell mechanics at this level. MDCK, NBT2, and MEF cells were embedded in 3D ECM, forming clusters that then migrated and generated forces affecting the ECM. The cells demonstrated MRI contrast due to iron accumulation in the clusters. Timelapse-MRI enabled the measurement of dynamic stress fields generated by the cells, as well as simultaneous monitoring of the cell distribution and ECM deformation/remodeling. We found cell clusters embedded in the 3D ECM can exert translational forces to pull and push, as well as torque, their surroundings. We also observed that the sum of forces generated by multiple cell clusters may result in macroscopic deformation. In summary, MRI can be used to image cell-ECM interactions mesoscopically.
Effect of uraemia upon the performance of the rat heart

The purpose of the present experiments was to study whether the uraemic state causes any change in intrinsic cardiac function in the rat. Hearts of animals were studied 24 hr after bilateral nephrectomy (acute uraemia) or two weeks after 5/6 nephrectomy (chronic uraemia). Ventricular function curves were performed in an isolated working rat heart apparatus. Hearts from animals with acute uraemia performed the same as hearts from sham controls. Hearts from animals with chronic uraemia had enhanced performance as evidenced by increased cardiac output, peak and mean left ventricular systolic pressure, maximum rate of left ventricular pressure rise, and external work. Coronary flow, myocardial oxygen consumption, and external efficiency were also greater in hearts of rats with chronic uraemia. These studies demonstrate that short-term chronic uraemia is not associated with depressed intrinsic cardiac performance. On the contrary, isolated hearts from chronic uraemic rats, while performing external work, demonstrate enhanced dynamic and metabolic responses to increasing filling pressures.
Real options and a large producer: the case of electricity markets

In this paper we extend the real option theory to consider the situation of a large producer and we employ the model to electricity markets. This is important because many producers in these markets affect the market supply and, therefore, also the electricity price. This production price effect influences not only on the assets that the energy company owns but also on its investment opportunities. We show that this production's price effect has to be considered in the investment analysis if the company is not able to hedge the price effect in the financial markets and if there is no competition on the investment opportunity.
Automatic generation of coarse three-dimensional meshes using the functionality of a geometric modeler

Abstract An automatic three-dimensional mesh generator suited for the generation of coarse three-dimensional finite element meshes is presented. The algorithm employs the three basic three-dimensional element removal operators and considers their application in a mode that selects the best shaped elements for the given domain. Consideration is given to the integration of this procedure with a general non-manifold geometric modeling system.
Reconstruction of bladder neck and prostatic urethra. Clinical experience with bladder flap.

Abstract The authors have utilized the bladder-flap procedure in 16 patients from 1967 to 1972. The technique is detailed, and complications and long-term follow-up results are given.
Personal and professional integrity in relation to pastoral assessment

Though concerns about personal integrity have led some to de-emphasize the role of assessment and the pastor's professional viewpoint in pastoral care, as re-examined here these same concerns call for a recognition of the vital connection between professional and personal integrity. The relationship between personal and professional integrity as they shape pastoral assessment is analyzed in terms of respect, encounter, and anticipation. The relationship of a theology of hope or anticipation to the predictive validity of pastoral assessment presents a challenging agenda for pastoral ministry today.
Successful treatment with hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride in an infant with congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus

We report a 9-month-old male latino infant with congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) who presented with hypernatremic dehydration aggravated by severe gastroenteritis. Initially, the infant was managed with intravenous fluids followed by standard 20 cal/ounce formula and pharmacological therapy, resulting in normalization of his serum sodium level. While hydrochlorothiazide therapy alone or in combination with prostaglandin inhibitors or amiloride has been successful in children and adolescents, this is the first report of the successful use of hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride in an infant with congenital NDI.
Engineering novel carotenoids in microorganisms

A considerable number of microbial and plant carotenoid biosynthesis genes have been cloned over the past few years. Functional heterologous expression of most of these genes has made it possible to engineer carotenoid biosynthesis in non-carotenogenic E. coli and yeasts. Recently, gene combination and molecular breeding of pathways have been used to produce novel and rare high-value carotenoids.
Mechanical Behavior of Individual Micro/Nano-Fibers Using a Novel Characterization Device

The present paper reports the development of a novel mechanical testing device that enables highly reliable mechanical tensile testing on individual micro-/nano-structures. The device features independent measurement of both force and displacement histories in the specimen with nanoNewton force and sub-picometer displacement resolutions, respectively. Moreover, the device is well suited for in-situ testing of micro-/nano- structures within a high resolution scanning electron microscope (SEM), which permits continuous high resolution imaging of the specimen during straining. The device comprises of two main parts: (a) a three-plate capacitive transducer that doubles up both as an actuator and a force sensor, and (b) a commercially available nano-manipulator that facilitates transportation and positioning of nanoscale structures with nano-precision. In order to conduct the mechanical tests, the two ends of the specimen are attached to the probe tips at the nanomanipulator and the transducer ends, using either electron-beam or ion-beam induced deposition (EBID/IBID). The working and capabilities of the testing device are illustrated by presenting results of nanomechanical tensile tests on electrospun polyaniline microwires. The engineering stress versus engineering strain curves exhibit two very distinct Young's moduli during the loading or the unloading segments of the applied displacement. Failure at the probe/sample weld junction occurred at ~ 67 MPa, suggesting that polyaniline microfibers exhibit a yield stress higher than most comparable bulk polymers.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Syntheses of photo-active lead(II)-1,10-phenanthroline materials

A facile synthetic technique for the formation of high-purity, stoichiometric 1:1 and 1:2 molecular ratio photo-active materials of lead(II) bromide and lead(II) iodide with 1,10-phenanthroline is described. The method results in the formation of analytically high-purity crystalline materials which are light-sensitive but air-stable. Elemental analyses and X-ray powder diffraction were used to characterize the materials.
Design and demonstration of a radioisojet.

A joint NASA Atomic Energy Commission effort was undertaken to develop and evaluate the performance of a radioisotope-heated thruster for possible spacecraft application. A Pm-147 oxide capsule was used as the heat source in a nominal 20-mlb NH3 thruster. The radioisojet mechanical design features were found to be quite similar to those for the thermal storage resistance jet. This permitted a parallel development and test program where the electrically heated thruster was constructed to the same physical dimensions as the radioisotope version. Initial and final testing of the electrically heated thruster was performed at General Electric Company. An interim 2-week continuous test program was performed at Mound Laboratory using both heater versions. Thrust, propellant mass flow, and temperature profiles were measured during these tests. The nominal 60-w (thermal) source produced core temperatures in excess of 1650°F at measured thrust levels up to 22 mlb. The corresponding specific impulse values were found to be greater than 230 sec for single-pulse operation having on-times up to 5 sec with thruster initially at nonflow steady state. A specific impulse of 152 sec steady state was demonstrated for continuous flow operation at 13 mlb thrust. There was excellent agreement in measured thrust and specific impulse for the electrically heated and radioisotope-heated thrusters at a rated power input of 60 w. Data correlated very closely also as a function of duty cycle and propellant flow rate over the range from zero to 100% on-time (i.e., continuous flow). Discrepancies in measured core temperatures between the two thrusters were attributed to location of sensing elements with respect to the heat source. Application of the radioisojet to a number of missions has been considered. Long-life, low-thrust applications, for which the power penalty must be borne by the auxiliary propulsion system, are attractive in terms of weight, reliability, and cost.
Advances in synthesis of azeotropic distillation column sequences: internal secondary recycles

An algorithm for automatic generation of sequences of distillation columns and decanters for separation of azeotropic mixtures has been developed (S.K. Wasylkiewicz, 54th Canadian Chemical Engineering Conference, paper No. 243, Calgary, October 2004; S.K. Wasylkiewicz, AIChE Spring National Meeting, paper No. 83e, Atlanta, GA, April 2005) where distillation boundaries can be crossed by moving them with pressure change, by exploring curvatures of distillation boundaries, or by liquid-liquid splits in decanters. In the first step of the algorithm, open-loop sequences are generated and primary recycles are automatically detected. Then, mass balances are calculated to finish the sequences. In this paper, we are focused on internal secondary recycles where species present in the sequence feed are introduced as separating agents. This can be a pure component produced somewhere downstream in the sequence or any other intermediate stream. On the basis of a broad knowledge about distillation regions and boundaries for the separated mixture, a preferred distillation region can be identified and a suitable recycle stream can be selected. These types of recycles can simplify tremendously, the whole sequence and reduce significantly the total cost of separation. We present in detail an example based on an industrial case where the internal secondary recycle was efficiently found and calculated during synthesis of column sequences by using the Split Generator in Distil and the mass balance calculation in MS Excel. Copyright © 2007 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.