cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
AUTOMATIC EXTRACTION OF BUILDING OUTLINE FROM HIGH RESOLUTION AERIAL IMAGERY

In this paper, a new approach for automated extraction of building boundary from high resolution imagery is proposed. The proposed approach uses both geometric and spectral properties of a building to detect and locate buildings accurately. It consists of automatic generation of high quality point cloud from the imagery, building detection from point cloud, classification of building roof and generation of building outline. Point cloud is generated from the imagery automatically using semi-global image matching technology. Buildings are detected from the differential surface generated from the point cloud. Further classification of building roof is performed in order to generate accurate building outline. Finally classified building roof is converted into vector format. Numerous tests have been done on images in different locations and results are presented in the paper.
Superior Mesenterorenal Bypass for Renal Revascularization with Infrarenal Aortic Occlusion

AbstractThe technique of renal revascularization using a saphenous vein bypass graft from the superior mesenteric artery is described. This operation has been performed for the correction of renal artery stenosis in 4 patients with atherosclerotic aortic occlusion. When the requisite conditions are present, mesenterorenal bypass offers a safe and effective method of renal revascularization, and is preferable to aortic replacement in selected patients.
Sex and Culture

Sexual beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors vary across cultures and historical periods, and are influenced by dominant constructions of gender and sexuality. Social institutions such as medicine, the law, and the education system socially control cultural beliefs and behaviors about sex and sexual deviance. Scholars in the United States debate conflicting findings and methodological issues in research about gender, sexuality, and sex. Recent theory and scholarship focus on gender and sexual fluidity in identity and sexual behaviors. Keywords: gender; gender socialization; heterosexuality; homophobia; sex research
First detailed observations on tardigrade mating behaviour and some aspects of the life history of Isohypsibius dastychi Pilato, Bertolani & Binda 1982 (Tardigrada, Isohypsibiidae)

In the present study we provide new insights into the mating behaviour of a bisexual tardigrade, Isohypsibius dastychi, revealing a process much more complex than expected. Mating included mutual stimulation that preceded semen ejaculation and egg deposition. If no mating occurred, egg absorption was observed. In addition, the life history and the influence of temperature on development were studied at two temperatures (12 and 20 °C). At both temperatures I. dastychi underwent three moults until adulthood with increasing inter-moult phases from the first to the third moult. As animals maintained at 12 °C became adults significantly later and also were significantly larger than animals at 20 °C, it is unlikely that either age or size determines the transition to adulthood. Generation time of females was significantly shorter than that of males, and both males and females were iteroparous. The consequences of our findings are discussed.
Suspending recursion in causal-link planning

We present a strategy for suspending recursive open conditions during planning. We also show conditions under which plans with suspended open conditions can be pruned. To make this suspension and pruning strategy efficient, we use an operator graph to analyze potential recursion before the planning process begins. This approach covers a broader range of recursive problems than the approaches of Morris and Kambhampati, and is much more tractable than Kambhampati's approach. We give experimental results that indicate 1) significant improvement on recursive problems and 2) negligible overhead when applied to recursive and non-recursive problems alike.
Neurocognition in individuals with incidentally-identified meningioma.

Meningiomas are primary intracranial tumors that are often asymptomatic. To our knowledge, no study has attempted to describe neurocognitive function in patients with incidentally-discovered meningioma. We utilized the Mayo Clinic Study of Aging (MCSA), which is a population-based sample of Olmsted County, Minnesota residents that includes neuropsychological testing and brain MRI approximately every 15 months. Using a text search of radiologists’ notes of 2402 MCSA individuals (mean age 77 years, scanned between 2004 and 2014) we identified 48 eligible subjects (2%) who had at least one meningioma. Most meningiomas were small (90% <3 cm). We matched each of the 48 subjects to 5 non-demented MCSA controls (n = 240) on age, sex, and education. Cognitive domains assessed included memory, attention-executive function, language, and visuospatial. More women (67%) had a meningioma than men (33%). Groups did not differ on prevalence of Mild Cognitive Impairment (Meningioma = 19%, Controls = 13%). Across cognitive domains, we observed similar performance for the two groups (p’s ≥ 0.21). Subtle differences emerged in memory and language domains (p = 0.05 and p = 0.11) when we divided the Meningioma group by tumor location, wherein the small group with an infratentorial tumor performed more poorly than controls globally as well as on select memory and language measures. Our findings suggest that small meningiomas are generally cognitively benign, but that may change as the tumor evolves, and might be impacted by other factors such as meningioma location.
Guideline-Based Statin Eligibility, Cancer Events, and Noncardiovascular Mortality in the Framingham Heart Study.

Purpose Cancer and cardiovascular disease share risk factors, and there is some evidence that statins reduce cancer mortality. We sought to determine the accuracy of the 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association statin eligibility criteria to identify individuals at a higher risk of developing cancer or of dying as a result of cancer or other noncardiovascular causes. Methods We included 2,196 participants (50.5 ± 8.1 years of age; 55% female) who were statin naive and free of cancer at baseline from the offspring and third-generation cohorts of the community-based longitudinal Framingham Heart Study. Statin eligibility was determined per American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines, and subclinical coronary atherosclerosis was assessed by computed tomography. The primary outcome was incident cancer at a median of 10.0 years (interquartile range, 9.1-10.6 years) of follow-up, and secondary outcomes were cancer mortality and noncardiovascular mortality. Results The incident cancer rate was 11.2% (247 of 2,196), with 58 noncardiovascular deaths, including 39 cancer deaths (1.8%). Overall, 37% (812 of 2,196) were statin eligible. Incident cancer occurred in 125 (15%) of the 812 statin-eligible participants versus 122 (8.8%) of the 1,384 of noneligible participants (subdistribution hazard ratio [SDHR], 1.8 [1.4 to 2.3]; P < .001). Cancer mortality occurred in 34 (4.2%) of the 812 statin-eligible participants versus five (0.4%) of the 1,384 noneligible participants (SDHR, 12.1 [4.7 to 31]; P < .001). Noncardiovascular mortality occurred in 49 (6.0%) of the 812 statin-eligible participants versus nine (0.7%) of the 1,384 noneligible participants (SDHR, 10.1 [5.0 to 21]; P < .001). In stratified analyses, these findings were independent of any individual causative risk factor such as body mass index, age, or smoking status. Conclusion In this community-based primary prevention cohort, guideline-based statin eligibility accurately identified patients at a higher risk of developing cancer and cancer-related mortality. Shared risk profiles and potential benefits of statins between cancer and cardiovascular outcomes may provide a unique opportunity to improve population health.
Comparison of Outcomes of Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease.

There are few data comparing outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in patients with chronic kidney disease. In this retrospective cohort study using the National Inpatient Sample 2011 to 2014, we included a total of 2,820 TAVI and 4,054 SAVR procedures, representative of 14,039 TAVI and 19,835 SAVR procedures nationally. Co-primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality, acute kidney injury (AKI), dialysis-requiring AKI, and postoperative stroke. In multivariate analysis, TAVI was associated with a lower in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR] 0.47, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.32 to 0.69, p
Resuscitation for Hypovolemic Shock

Hemorrhage is the leading cause of preventable deaths in trauma patients. After presenting a brief history of hemorrhagic shock resuscitation, this article discusses damage control resuscitation and its adjuncts. Massively bleeding patients in hypovolemic shock should be treated with damage control resuscitation principles including limited crystalloid, whole blood or balance blood component transfusion to permissive hypotension, preventing hypothermia, and stopping bleeding as quickly as possible.
Constructive Existence of Solution for Negative Exponent Generalized Emden-Fowler Nodal Problems

A constructive proof is given for the existence of solutions to the nodal problem for generalized Emden-Fowler equations y″(x) + a(x)y(x)|y(x)| α =0, 0 −2 with a(x) continuous on [0, 1] and positive on (0, 1). Numerical results are also included.
Identification and characterization of a transporter complex responsible for the cytosolic entry of nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates

Abstract Nitrogen-containing-bisphosphonates (N-BPs) are a class of drugs widely prescribed to treat osteoporosis and other bone-related diseases. Although previous studies have established that N-BPs function by inhibiting the mevalonate pathway in osteoclasts, the mechanism by which N-BPs enter the cytosol from the extracellular space to reach their molecular target is not understood. Here we implemented a CRISPRi-mediated genome-wide screen and identified SLC37A3 (solute carrier family 37 member A3) as a gene required for the action of N-BPs. We observed that SLC37A3 forms a complex with ATRAID (all-trans retinoic acid-induced differentiation factor), a previously identified genetic target of N-BPs. SLC37A3 and ATRAID localize to lysosomes and are required for releasing N-BP molecules that have trafficked to lysosomes through fluid-phase endocytosis into the cytosol. Our results elucidate the route by which N-BPs are delivered to their molecular target, addressing a key aspect of the mechanism of action of N-BPs that may have significant clinical relevance.
IL-21 maintains CD62L expression during NKT-cell ex vivo expansion and enhances antitumor activity of NKT cell therapy in vivo

Vα24-invariant Natural Killer T cells (NKTs) have potent antitumor properties and are being developed for cellular immunotherapy of cancer. Such therapy requires extensive ex vivo expansion of NKTs while preserving their longevity and function. In a recent report from our group, CD62L + subset of NKTs has been shown to have longer persistence in vivo and stronger antitumor activity than CD62L − counterpart. However, the requirements for the preservation of CD62L + NKTs during ex vivo expansion remain largely unknown. The gene expression analysis comparing CD62L + and CD62L − NKTs revealed a significantly higher expression level of IL-21R mRNA in the former. FACS analysis confirmed the finding at the cell surface protein level. These led us to hypothesize that IL-21 preferentially supports CD62L + NKTs. To test this hypothesis, we expanded primary human peripheral blood NKTs using in vitro stimulation with their cognate antigen, α-galactosylceramide. The culture was supplemented with IL-2, IL-21, or both cytokines. We found that in contrast to IL-2, IL-21 alone failed to support NKT-cell expansion. A combination of IL-2 and IL-21 led to similar absolute numbers of NKTs compared with IL-2 alone. However, the proportion of CD62L + NKT-cell subset was significantly higher in the culture with IL-2/IL-21 combination compared with IL-2 alone after both primary and secondary expansions. Furthermore, after transfer to NSG mice, IL2/IL-21-expanded NKTs persisted significantly longer and had higher therapeutic efficacy in a lymphoma model compared with IL-2-expanded NKTs. Our results suggest that inclusion of IL-21 in the NKT-cell expansion protocol, which currently uses IL-2 alone, would increase antitumor potential of NKT cell therapy.
V0 Chains and Government of VP in Spanish

As the brief comparison of Chapter 1 showed, Spanish and English pattern differently with respect to V0 movement and the possibility of null VP constructions. In this chapter I will examine processes involving V0 and VP in Spanish with attention to the nature of parametrization related to subcategorization licensing of VP which were developed in Chapter 3.
Is this app safe for children?: a comparison study of maturity ratings on Android and iOS applications

There is a rising concern among parents who have experienced unreliable content maturity ratings for mobile applications (apps) that result in inappropriate risk exposure for their children and adolescents. In reality, there is no consistent maturity rating policy for mobile applications. The maturity ratings of Android apps are provided purely by developers' self-disclosure and are rarely verified. While Apple's iOS app ratings are considered to be more accurate, they can also be inconsistent with Apple's published policies. To address these issues, this research aims to systematically uncover the extent and severity of unreliable maturity ratings for mobile apps. Specifically, we develop mechanisms to verify the maturity ratings of mobile apps and investigate possible reasons behind the incorrect ratings. We believe that our findings have important implications for platform providers (e.g., Google or Apple) as well as for regulatory bodies and application developers.
CONTROL THEORY OF HYPERBOLIC EQUATIONS RELATED TO CERTAIN QUESTIONS IN HARMONIC ANALYSIS AND SPECTRAL THEORY*: (An Outline)

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the control theory of hyperbolic equations related to certain questions in harmonic analysis and spectral theory. The study of control problems for certain hyperbolic partial differential equations leads to some interesting, and perhapsunexpected, consequences in harmonic analysis.
From demonisation to rapprochement: Abiy Ahmed's early reforms and implications of the coming together of Ethiopia and Eritrea

In July 2018, the leaders of Ethiopia and Eritrea signed a historic peace agreement. The emergence of new leadership in Ethiopia was key to the unprecedented coming together between the two countri...
Flake density of steam-processed sorghum grain alters performance and sites of digestibility by growing-finishing steers.

The effect of several flake densities (FD) of steam-processed sorghum grain on performance, and site and extent of nutrient digestibilities by steers fed growing and finishing diets was determined. The effectiveness of common laboratory methods of starch availability (enzymatic hydrolysis or gelatinization) to provide target specifications for quality control of steam-flaked grains was also measured. In vitro starch availability of the processed grains increased (P <.05) linearly in response to decreased FD. Flake density was more highly correlated with enzymatic measures than with percentage gelatinization (R 2 =.87 to.93 vs.36). Using 140 crossbred beef steers (181 kg initial weight), feedlot performance was determined for 112 d with a growing diet (50% grain), followed by 119 d with a finishing diet (78% grain). Each FD treatment (412, 360, 309, and 257 g/L or 32, 28, 24, and 20 lb/bu) was randomly assigned to five pens of seven steers each. Intake of DM by steers decreased linearly (P <.05) as FD decreased (7 and 13%, respectively, for growing and finishing diets). Decreasing FD reduced linearly ( P < .05) ADG in the finishing phase and for the entire 231-d trial. With the growing diet only, feed efficiency and estimated diet NE m and NEg responses to decreasing FD were curvilinear (P <.05), with the 360 g/L (28 lb/bu) flake being most efficient. Electrical energy requirements for processing increased linearly ( P <.05) as FD decreased. Using four multicannulated crossbred steers (275 kg), starch digestibility increased linearly ( P <.05) in the rumen (82 to 91%) and total tract (98.2 to 99.2%) as FD decreased. Digestibilities within the small (74%) and large intestines (62%) were not altered by FD. Decreasing FD increased (P <.05) total CP digestibility, but did not consistently alter fiber digestibility or DE content of the diets. In conclusion, enzymatic laboratory methods to evaluate starch availability in processed grains can be used satisfactorily to establish FD criteria for quality control of the steam-flaking process. The greatest improvements in efficiency, estimated diet NE, and starch and protein digestibilities usually occurred when FD was decreased from 412 to 360 g/L (32 to 28 lb/bu). Based on these measures and processing costs, the optimal FD was 360 g/L (28 lb/bu).
Ourselves, Our Rivals

This chapter examines the hidden transcripts (Scott in Domination and the arts of resistance: hidden transcripts. Yale University Press, New Haven, 1990) which emerged after the attempted school consolidation of two communities in the rural USA following the Great Recession of 2008. Exploring the official school documents, media reporting, and online conversation, patterns emerged demonstrating a miss alignment between the official story supporting consolidation and a ‘hidden transcript’ in opposition. Using case study (Yin in Case study research and applications. Sage, New York, 2012) analysis to tell this one consolidation outcome allows researchers to hear voices not normally represented in rural areas. This chapter explores how resistance to consolidation emerged and how rural areas, continuously engaged in consolidation studies, are unsettled and therefore lose cohesion.
Implementation of Synapses with Hodgkin Huxley Neurons on the FPAA

The neuronal responses through excitatory and inhibitory synapses are implemented on a reconfigurable and programmable platform. The synaptic cleft between the pre synaptic and post synaptic neuron has been depicted as a ramp generator while the post synaptic potentials are observed from the transistor channel neuron model which emulates the ion channels in biological neurons. The synaptic strengths are tuned by modulating the charge on the floating gate devices on the hardware demonstrated through particular voltage levels and time constants. The models have been designed and built in such a way that the tools associated with the chip make it possible to build up and compile a bigger network of neurons and synapses. The experimental measurements are taken from the circuits compiled on a Field Programmable Analog Array fabricated on a 350nm process.
Alcohol Ablation of Extracardiac Thoracic Tumor.

Abstract This case illustrates a novel percutaneous treatment of a highly vascular thoracic tumor impinging on the left atrium and right pulmonary artery by delivery of coils and alcohol ablation via a circumflex coronary artery feeder branch. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.)
Experimenting with incentives for information transmission: Quantity versus quality

Abstract People share their experiences of goods and services online through reviews, ratings and endorsements on social networks, potentially generating welfare-improving information that can help subsequent consumers make better, more informed decisions. While the economics literature has focused on questions of alignment and the intensive quality of provided information, another tension is extensive: in the absence of an incentive, many might choose not to provide information at all. We study three different incentives that encourage information transmission on the extensive margin, examining the tradeoffs between the quality and quantity of information. Our findings indicate substantial efficiency gains are possible relative to no incentives, even when the incentives damage the preference alignment between those sending and receiving information. In particular, our results suggest that a partially aligned incentive (similar to a referral or sales commission) can encourage the provision of information while not producing substantial reductions in quality.
Relocating IV Pumps for Critically Ill Isolated Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients From Bedside to Outside the Patient Room.

Discuss advantages and disadvantages of relocating IV pumps for coronavirus disease 2019 patients from bedside to outside the patient room and characterize reproducible details of an external infusion pump model. Design Brief report. Setting ICUs at a single-center teaching hospital. Patients Critically ill coronavirus disease 2019 patients under contact and special droplet precautions. Interventions Relocation of IV pumps for coronavirus disease 2019 patients from bedside to outside the patient room using extension tubing. Measurements and main results Infusion pumps secured to a rolling IV pole are moved immediately outside the patient room with extension tubing, reaching the patient through a closed door. It is anticipated that this practice may reduce unnecessary coronavirus disease 2019 exposure for healthcare professionals, reduce the consumption of personal protective equipment, and promote patient safety by limiting delays of donning personal protective equipment to initiate or adjust medications. Conclusions Risks of situating IV pumps outside the patient room must be carefully weighed against the benefits. Relocation of IV pumps outside the patient room may be considered given shortages of personal protective equipment and high risk of healthcare professional exposure. Institutional review-approved studies investigating the measured impact on decreased exposure, personal protective equipment usage, and patient safety are required.
Nonlinearities between inhibition and T-type calcium channel activity bidirectionally regulate thalamic oscillations

Absence seizures result from 3 to 5 Hz generalized thalamocortical oscillations that depend on highly regulated inhibitory neurotransmission in the thalamus. Efficient reuptake of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA is essential, and reuptake failure worsens human seizures. Here, we show that blocking GABA transporters (GATs) in acute rat brain slices containing key parts of the thalamocortical seizure network modulates epileptiform activity. As expected, we found that blocking either GAT1 or GAT3 prolonged oscillations. However, blocking both GATs unexpectedly suppressed oscillations. Integrating experimental observations into single-neuron and network-level computational models shows how a non-linear dependence of T-type calcium channel gating on GABAB receptor activity regulates network oscillations. Receptor activity that is either too brief or too protracted fails to sufficiently open T-type channels necessary for sustaining oscillations. Only within a narrow range does prolonging GABAB receptor activity promote channel opening and intensify oscillations. These results have implications for therapeutics that modulate inhibition kinetics.
Size effects on microstructure and mechanical properties of additively manufactured copper–chromium–niobium alloy

Abstract This study quantifies size effects on microstructure and mechanical properties of Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) Copper–Chromium–Niobium Alloys, specifically GRCop-42 (Copper-4at% Chromium-2at% Niobium Alloy). Thin-wall structures made of copper-based alloys are desirable for applications requiring a combination of high thermal conductivity and strength. Additive manufacturing offers the ability to produce copper alloy thin-wall structures without the need for complex tooling. However, consideration must be given to the effect of wall thickness on solidification rate and process as it can affect material and part characteristics including the microstructure, porosity, and surface roughness. This investigation aims to determine which of these characteristics are most influenced by variations in wall thickness and how they affect the mechanical properties. Additionally, we investigate how these characteristics and their influence on mechanical properties are changed by heat treatment. The results show that surface roughness, grain size, and texture do not appear to be greatly influenced by the build thickness, while porosity appeared to be highly dependent on thickness. By increasing wall thickness from 0.7 mm to 2.0 mm, porosity decreases by 74.7% in the as-built condition and 99.7% in the hot isostatic press (HIP) condition. The variability in porosity has a notable effect on the mechanical properties of the thin-wall structures: yield strength and ultimate tensile strength decrease by more than 20% for both as-built and HIP samples as thickness decreases from 2.0 mm to 0.7 mm. This decrease in strength appears to be attributable to the increased porosity in thin-wall samples, as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images show crack networks linking internal voids along the fracture surface.
The effects of domestic labour mobility on trade agreements: Empirical evidence

This paper examines the empirical relationship between trade agreements and domestic labour mobility. The domestic‐commitment motive from Maggi and Rodriguez‐Clare (American Economic Review, 97, 2007, 1374) and standard trade models with labour frictions predict that trade liberalisation should occur when labour is more mobile. I find support for this prediction. Using regional trade agreements (RTAs) covering 56 countries in 2015, I show labour mobility is a strong predictor of trade liberalisation. The probability of an RTA increases when the country pair's average domestic labour market is less rigid. When the average labour mobility increases by 1 standard deviation from the mean, the probability of an RTA increases by 14–26%. These results are also consistent with the bound tariffs negotiated under the World Trade Organization, where less rigid labour markets are associated with lower bound tariffs.
Evaluation of SiC Armor Tile Using Ultrasonic Techniques

Obtaining reliable ballistic performance is important for full utilization of ceramic armor tile. In this work, various sets of armor tiles were studied using multiple ultrasonic approaches. One set of specimens consisted of three specially prepared SiC armor tile, 10 cm by 10 cm by 1.9 cm thick, and seeded with various defects representing those most likely to occur and cause ballistic failure. Water-coupled ultrasound studies were performed using both a conventional water-coupled system (in which time-of-flight measurements were used instead of conventional C-scan parameters) and a phased-array water-coupled system. It was demonstrated that while the conventional system, along with advanced digital image processing, allowed detection of most of these defects, the phased-array system achieved comparable if not superior results in a fraction of the time. This paper will present the test specimens that have been used so far in these studies, the details of the data acquisition parameters and the results obtained to date.
The spectrum of Schrödinger operators with positive potentials in Riemannian manifolds

Let M be a noncompact complete Riemannian manifold. We consider the Schrodinger operator -Δ + V acting on L 2 (M), where V is a nonnegative, locally integrable function on M. We obtain some simple conditions which imply that inf Spec(-Δ + V), the bottom of the spectrum of -Δ + V, is strictly positive. We also establish upper and lower bounds for the counting function N(λ).
Rule and policy spaces and economic progress: Lessons for Third World countries

Despite greater rates of capital accumulation, per capita growth rates among Third World nations (particularly, Africa) are much lower than among the advanced, capitalist nations. In this paper I examine the critical roles of the rule space and policy on economic growth. Empirically, nations with poor institutions and policies grow at about a fifth of the rate of nations with good institutions and policies.
The fate of modern man

'UNLIMITED technological violence', as expressed in the Stalinist labour camp experience, and 'absurd death', symbolized by the disease of cancer-these are the two interrelated givens of modern life with which Solzhenitsyn grapples in Cancer Ward. The author's insistence that violence and death are today the main determinants of a man's 'fate' and 'happiness' constitutes the enormous contemporary appeal of this novel and answers effectively the often cited criticism that Solzhenitsyn's expressive means are 'traditionalist', 'dated' or, simply, 'old-fashioned'. In reading Cancer Ward we are gripped by the fates of the cancer victims with almost a morbid fascination, and we are overwhelmed by the realism of the hero's bitter 'happiness'. Throughout the novel we sense the rightness and timeliness of Solzhenitsyn's interest in the two greatest anxieties of our age. To a greater or lesser degree cancer and technological violence threaten us all. Thus, we are engaged, at times against our will, with the pervasiveness and absurd terror which death and violence portend. The disease of cancer, personified as the Crab that 'loves people' and 'won't let you go till you croak'2 is presented in Cancer Ward as a fateful and fatal Misfortune (in Russian, gore) peculiar to modern man. For reasons largely unknown, and working according to 'its own specifications', cancer, like Bad Luck, chooses its victims arbitrarily and forces them into a 'no-exit' situation which is awesome and terrifying. Cancer,
Fluorecence Studies of Nucleotides and Polynucleotides II. 7-DEAZANEBULARIN: CODING AMBIGUITY IN TRANSCRIPTION WITH BASE PAIRS CONTAINING FEWER THAN TWO HYDROGEN BONDS

Abstract Deazanebularin, a cytotoxic nucleoside, is fluorescent at ambient temperature and at neutral pH. Some of its fluorescence properties and those of its phosphorylated derivatives are reported here. Deazanebularin nucleotides are substrates for Escherichia coli polynucleotide phosphorylase and RNA polymerase. With RNA polymerase deazanebularin triphosphate acts as an ambiguous substrate in that it functions, with almost equal efficiency, as an analogue of either ATP or GTP. The relevance of this observation to the mechanism of base selection by RNA polymerase is discussed. The synthesis, characterization, and properties of polymers containing deazanebularin are also described. Some of these polymers form unique ordered structures with base pairs possessing only a single hydrogen bond; these permit an assessment of the contribution of hydrogen bonding to helix stability. These polymers also exhibit some unusual fluorescence properties, including excited state energy transfer.
Strange Water in the Solar System

Analysis of a primitive meteorite offers clues about the environment in which the solar system formed.
Spectrofluorometric Probe Method for Examining Preferential Solvation in Binary Solvent Mixtures

A spectrofluorometric method is developed to examine preferential solvation of a probe molecule dissolved in binary solvent mixtures. The method assumes that the solvational sphere around every fluorophore is solvated by only one type of solvent component and that each solvated fluorophore contributes to the measured emission intensity. Expressions derived from the model are illustrated with the use of observed fluorescence emission behavior of 3,4-dihydrobenzo[ghi]perylene dissolved in binary n-heptane + 1,4-dioxane and dibutyl ether + acetonitrile solvent mixtures, which were measured as part of the present study.
Dipolar control of monolayer morphology: spontaneous SAM patterning.

A strategy for controlling relative placements of molecules within multicomponent monolayers at the solution−HOPG interface is demonstrated. The monolayers assemble from complementary pairs of 1,5-bis-alkyldiether-anthracenes bearing self-repelling side chains. Each diether side chain suffers repulsive dipolar interactions if it adsorbs next to an identical side chain in the morphology normally assumed by 1,5-bis-substituted-anthracene monolayers. Complementary side-chain pairs experience attractive dipolar interactions when adsorbed as neighbors in the normal morphology monolayer. The repulsive and attractive forces spontaneously drive formation of a patterned monolayer at the solution−HOPG interface. Each molecule adsorbs in its own row, sandwiched between two rows of the complementary anthracene. These studies demonstrate the viability of using weak dipolar interactions to control molecular placement and monolayer morphology and to pattern multicomponent monolayers.
DNA damage checkpoint and repair centers

In eukaryotes, recombinational repair is choreographed by multiprotein complexes that are organized into focal assemblies. These foci are highly dynamic giga-dalton structures capable of simultaneously repairing multiple DNA lesions. Moreover, the composition of these repair centers depends on the nature of the DNA lesion and is tightly coordinated with progression of the cell cycle. Components of DNA repair centers are regulated by post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination and sumoylation. Repair foci progress through four distinct stages: first, DNA damage recognition and binding of DNA ends by the Mre11 complex and Ku70/80; second, end-processing and binding of single-stranded DNA by replication protein A, which recruits checkpoint proteins; third, recombinational repair during S and G(2) phase; and fourth, disassembly of foci and resumption of the cell cycle.
The Family Life Cycle and Clinical Intervention.

With an aim toward encouraging more precise identification and treatment of familial dysfunction, the authors suggest combining the principles of first and second order change (Watzlawick, Weakland, and Fisch, 1974) with the concept of the family life cycle (Duvall, 1971). A theoretical discussion is followed by clinical case examples.
Slater determinant from atomic form factors

The electron densities and expectation values for several physical properties predicted by three single determinant wave functions for the beryllium atom are presented. The wave functions are the Hartree–Fock, the Best Density Matrix, and the X-ray fitted. The X-ray fitted electron density comes closest to reproducing the exact density for r < 8.0 a.u. and gives, in most cases, better values for the physical properties.
Enhanced Thermal Shock Properties of Y2O3-2 WT.% ZrO2 Heated Using 2.45 Ghz Radiation

Microwave sintering of Y2O3-2wt.% ZrO2 has produced microstructures which yield mechanical and thermal properties that differ from those observed in commercially sintered Y2O3-2wt.% ZrO2. This paper discusses mechanical and thermal property data obtained on samples of Y2O3-2wt.% ZrO2 heated using 2.45 GHz electromagnetic radiation.
Simulation of throughput from remote batch entry terminals

Abstract Operation of the remote batch terminals connected to an IBM 370/158 computer system at a large mid-western firm is simulated using GPSS language. The performance of the computer system was simulated to determine the impact of changes to be imposed on the system. The model parameters of remote printer speed and core storage capacity were altered during the course of the simulation. These variables were selected for their flexibility in relationship to the total network and the relative ease of implementing such changes. It is found that implementing higher speed printers and increased computer core storage capacity can decrease printer and core storage utilizations and the average service rate drastically.
Local Ca2+ Entry Via Orai1 Regulates Plasma Membrane Recruitment of TRPC1 and Controls Cytosolic Ca2+ Signals Required for Specific Cell Functions

Store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) has been associated with two types of channels: CRAC channels that require Orai1 and STIM1 and SOC channels that involve TRPC1, Orai1, and STIM1. While TRPC1 significantly contributes to SOCE and SOC channel activity, abrogation of Orai1 function eliminates SOCE and activation of TRPC1. The critical role of Orai1 in activation of TRPC1-SOC channels following Ca2+ store depletion has not yet been established. Herein we report that TRPC1 and Orai1 are components of distinct channels. We show that TRPC1/Orai1/STIM1-dependent ISOC, activated in response to Ca2+ store depletion, is composed of TRPC1/STIM1-mediated non-selective cation current and Orai1/STIM1-mediated ICRAC; the latter is detected when TRPC1 function is suppressed by expression of shTRPC1 or a STIM1 mutant that lacks TRPC1 gating, STIM1(684EE685). In addition to gating TRPC1 and Orai1, STIM1 mediates the recruitment and association of the channels within ER/PM junctional domains, a critical step in TRPC1 activation. Importantly, we show that Ca2+ entry via Orai1 triggers plasma membrane insertion of TRPC1, which is prevented by blocking SOCE with 1 µM Gd3+, removal of extracellular Ca2+, knockdown of Orai1, or expression of dominant negative mutant Orai1 lacking a functional pore, Orai1-E106Q. In cells expressing another pore mutant of Orai1, Orai1-E106D, TRPC1 trafficking is supported in Ca2+-containing, but not Ca2+-free, medium. Consistent with this, ICRAC is activated in cells pretreated with thapsigargin in Ca2+-free medium while ISOC is activated in cells pretreated in Ca2+-containing medium. Significantly, TRPC1 function is required for sustained KCa activity and contributes to NFκB activation while Orai1 is sufficient for NFAT activation. Together, these findings reveal an as-yet unidentified function for Orai1 that explains the critical requirement of the channel in the activation of TRPC1 following Ca2+ store depletion. We suggest that coordinated regulation of the surface expression of TRPC1 by Orai1 and gating by STIM1 provides a mechanism for rapidly modulating and maintaining SOCE-generated Ca2+ signals. By recruiting ion channels and other signaling pathways, Orai1 and STIM1 concertedly impact a variety of critical cell functions that are initiated by SOCE.
XIV ISCM, Hangzhou, China, May 2013: Opening Remarks

I am honored to present these opening remarks at the XIV International Symposium on Cholinergic Mechanisms (ISCM) in Hangzhou and to greet so many of my old friends—even though in absentia. My old late friend, Carlos Chagas, Jr., remarked once that the major reward of an assiduous scientist—an ancient cholinergiker in my case— is that he becomes able to form dear friendships all over the world, and I cherish immensely having achieved this status. Spiritually, if not bodily, I greet warmly all of my many friends, present here in the beautiful garden city of Hangzhou! And I regret that the two of my best friends, JeanPierrre Changeux and Victor Whittaker, could not take part in this ISCM. Forty-three years evolved since the late Edith Heilbronn organized in Skokloster, Sweden, the first ISCM (this term was first employed at Don Jenden's third ISCM, held in La Jolla, CA). This is a long time of existence for a scientific organization, but this time dwarfs almost to nothingness in comparison with the first written statement concerning the existence of cholinergic toxins and hallucinogens in Mesopotamia and in the Roman Empire (see Karczmar 2007, 2010, Karczmar: “The Unknown ‘I’”, unpublished). This long tenure of cholinergicity makes it appropriate to hold this XIV ISCM in China, a country of timeless civilization and ancient science. This status was described by Sir Joseph Needham, a British neurochemist and historian, in an opus of many volumes which was continued by his successors till it reached the status of 20 volumes (Needham 1943, 1961) (see Figs. 1 and 2). Sir Joseph worked on his masterwork in China, where he was
Outcomes of the first 2 American hand transplants at 8 and 6 years posttransplant.

Purpose The feasibility of hand allotransplantation has been demonstrated. The purpose of the article is to report the (1) functional return, (2) psychosocial outcomes, (3) clinical and histological assessment for rejection, (4) complications, and (5) graft survival in the 2 American hand transplant recipients. Methods We present 2 patients 106 and 81 months, respectively, after unilateral transplantation of an allogeneic hand and forearm. We analyzed clinical course, number of rejection episodes, adverse events, function of the allograft, and quality of life. Clinical laboratory results, biopsy histology, and patient clinical examinations were used to compare the clinical course. Standard hand function tests were used to evaluate function. Psychological interviews were used to assess acceptance and quality of life. Results Our patients have allograft survival with improvements in intrinsic muscle activity, total active motion and return of functional grip, pinch strength, and sensibility. Rejection episodes were restricted primarily to the first 6 months after transplantation, and all responded to treatment. The major posttransplantation complications were a cytomegalovirus infection in patient 1 and osteonecrosis of the hip requiring both hips to be replaced, 1 at year 4 and the other at year 6, as well as transient immunosuppression-related diabetes in patient 2. Recently we have weaned both patients off maintenance steroids. Current Carroll scores are fair for patient 1 (72/99) and fair for patient 2 (55/99), although patient 2 has not had good recovery of intrinsic function. Both patients are back at work and report an excellent quality of life at nearly 9 and 7 years, respectively, after transplantation. Conclusions Our intermediate long-term results of hand transplants have demonstrated functional return similar to that of replants. Graft survival and quality of life after hand transplantation has far exceeded initial expectations. We conclude that allogeneic hand transplant is feasible and holds promise as a treatment modality for catastrophic upper extremity loss. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
A solid‐phase bioreactor with continuous sample deposition for matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry

We report the development of a solid-phase proteolytic digestion and continuous deposition microfluidic chip platform for low volume fraction collection and off-line matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. Tryptic peptides were formed in an on-chip bioreactor and continuously deposited onto a MALDI target plate using a motor-driven xyz stage. The bioreactor consisted of a 4 cm × 200 µm × 50 µm microfluidic channel with covalently immobilized trypsin on an array of 50 µm diameter micropost structures with a 50 µm edge-to-edge inter-post spacing. A 50 µm i.d. capillary tube was directly attached to the end of the bioreactor for continuous sample deposition. The MALDI target plate was modified by spin-coating a nitrocellulose solution containing a MALDI matrix on the surface prior to effluent deposition. Protein molecular weight standards were used for evaluating the performance of the digestion and continuous deposition system. Serpentine sample traces 200 µm wide were obtained with a 30 fmol/mm quantity deposition rate and a 3.3 nL/mm volumetric deposition rate.
Neoadjuvant Concurrent Chemoradiation for Curative Treatment of Penile Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Introduction. Penile cancer is a rare malignancy often treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery. However, the utility of neoadjuvant chemoradiation, particularly when the tumor is resistant to chemotherapy alone, has not been established. In this study, we report a case of pT3cN3M0 penile squamous cell carcinoma with progression of nodal disease on chemotherapy, which was cured with use of neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiation. Case Report. A 65-year-old male presented with a fixed left inguinal lymph node with associated firmness of the penile glans. Biopsies of both sites revealed evidence of squamous cell carcinoma. The patient underwent partial penectomy for the primary lesion and began neoadjuvant chemotherapy to reduce the size of the unresectable left inguinal node. However, he displayed disease progression in the left inguinal node. As such, we attempted concurrent chemoradiation therapy with regression of his nodal disease. The patient was able to undergo left inguinal node dissection and has no evidence of disease 18 months since his initial surgery. Conclusion. The use of neoadjuvant chemoradiation for bulky cN2-3 disease seems appropriate in the setting of progressive disease. Further studies are necessary to assess the utility of concurrent chemoradiation both in the neoadjuvant and salvage setting.
The ethics of corporate governance

The failure of the critics of corporate governance to agree on what should be done to improve the governance process can, in most cases, be traced to a different understanding of the role of corporate directors in that process. This article analyzes and contrasts the obligations of directors under two legal theories, the fictional person theory and the organic theory, of the corporation. A comparison of the director's obligations under each theory indicates that the organic theory provides a better basis for assessing the performance of directors and initiating reform. Among the boards of directors of Fortune 500 companies, I estimate that 95% are not fully doing what they are legally, morally, and ethically supposed to do. And they couldn't, even if they wanted to.
The 1999 DARPA off-line intrusion detection evaluation

Abstract Eight sites participated in the second Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) off-line intrusion detection evaluation in 1999. A test bed generated live background traffic similar to that on a government site containing hundreds of users on thousands of hosts. More than 200 instances of 58 attack types were launched against victim UNIX and Windows NT hosts in three weeks of training data and two weeks of test data. False-alarm rates were low (less than 10 per day). The best detection was provided by network-based systems for old probe and old denial-of-service (DoS) attacks and by host-based systems for Solaris user-to-root (U2R) attacks. The best overall performance would have been provided by a combined system that used both host- and network-based intrusion detection. Detection accuracy was poor for previously unseen, new, stealthy and Windows NT attacks. Ten of the 58 attack types were completely missed by all systems. Systems missed attacks because signatures for old attacks did not generalize to new attacks, auditing was not available on all hosts, and protocols and TCP services were not analyzed at all or to the depth required. Promising capabilities were demonstrated by host-based systems, anomaly detection systems and a system that performs forensic analysis on file system data.
The Social Qualities of Being on Foot: A Theoretical Analysis of Pedestrian Activity, Community, and Culture

This article presents a theoretical framework for explaining how pedestrian activity broadens people's access to cultural meaning‐making processes. A lack of vital pedestrian activity constitutes a...