cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bud3 activates Cdc42 to establish a proper growth site in budding yeast.

Cell polarization occurs along a single axis that is generally determined by a spatial cue, yet the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Using biochemical assays and live-cell imaging, we show that cell polarization to a proper growth site requires activation of Cdc42 by Bud3 in haploid budding yeast. Bud3 catalyzes the release of guanosine diphosphate (GDP) from Cdc42 and elevates intracellular Cdc42–guanosine triphosphate (GTP) levels in cells with inactive Cdc24, which has as of yet been the sole GDP–GTP exchange factor for Cdc42. Cdc42 is activated in two temporal steps in the G1 phase: the first depends on Bud3, whereas subsequent activation depends on Cdc24. Mutational analyses suggest that biphasic activation of Cdc42 in G1 is necessary for assembly of a proper bud site. Biphasic activation of Cdc42 or Rac GTPases may be a general mechanism for spatial cue–directed cell polarization in eukaryotes.
Synthesis of 3,6-dioxa-Δ7-4-trifluoromethyl perfluorooctyl trifluoromethyl sulfonimide: bis[(perfluoroalkyl)sulfonyl] superacid monomer and polymer

Abstract A new type of ion exchange polymer, bis[(perfluoroalkyl)sulfonyl]imide ionomers (PFSI), were developed by the copolymerization of sodium 3,6-dioxa-Δ 7 -4-trifluoromethyl perfluorooctyl trifluoromethyl sulfonimide with tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) using an aqueous redox initiation system in an emulsion type polymerization. These polymers have been prepared in various equivalent weights and processed into functional membranes. The new ionomers exhibit excellent chemical and thermal stability. The materials have high potential for electrochemical applications especially as solid polymer electrolytes (SPE) in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells.
A Closer Look at Lampreys for the Non‐specialist

Hardisty, Martin W. 2006. Lampreys: life without jaws. Forrest Text, Cardigan, United Kingdom. xi + 272 p. £18.50 (paper), ISBN: 0‐9550740‐6‐1.
Experimental and ab Initio Computational Evidence for New Peroxidic Intermediates (Iminopersulfinic Acids). Substituent Effects in the Photooxidations of Sulfenic Acid Derivatives

A detailed ab initio study of the structures and energetics of the persulfoxides and thiadioxiranes derived from sulfenic acid derivatives (RSX) is reported. The persulfoxides adopt structures in w...
Relative abundance and growth of mussels (Mollusca: Eulamellibranchia) in pools 8,9 and 10 of the Mississippi River

SUMMARY. Twenty-three species of unionid mussels were sampled during the summer of 1975 from a 76-mile reach of the Upper Mississippi River; this represented eight species fewer than were recorded in a 1930–31 survey for the same section of the river. Of the 244 sites sampled in 1975, mussels were found at 116 sites and the ten most productive sites accounted for 40.8% of the 1205 mussels collected. There were as many as thirteen different mussel species taken from one sampling site. The two most abundant species (Amblema peruviana and Megalonaias gigantea) constituted 54.5% of the mussels sampled in 1975; these two species made up only 8.3% of the 1930–31 survey. Individuals of the twelve most abundant mussel species were aged, and shell-length growth equations were determined. In addition, shell-free dry weight growth rate and shell weight growth rate was determined for Amblema peruviana. The calculated annual production for A. peruviana (assuming a mean density of 1 per m2) was 482 mg/m2 shell-free dry weight, and 14.471 g/m2 shell weight.
Narcissism, Interpersonal Adjustment, and Coping in Children of Holocaust Survivors

Abstract We tested the theory of intergenerational transmission, which suggests that the Holocaust trauma, combined with circumstances in the survivors' lives (early loss of a parent, was a child survivor, had a hiding experience) and circumstances in their children's lives (having a father who survived, being the first-born or only child, and not participating in a children of survivors group) would result in poorer interpersonal adjustment and coping and greater narcissism than in children of survivors without these circumstances and children of parents who imigrated from Europe before World War II. Three hundred fifty children (241 children of Holocaust survivors and 109 children of escaped European-born parents) completed four scales of the California Psychological Inventory (Gough, 1988), the O'Brien Multiphasic Narcissism Inventory (O'Brien, 1987), and the Hardiness scale (Kobasa & Puccetti, 1983). The results failed to support the attribution of adjustment and personality differences in children of...
Minimally Disruptive Medicine: A Pragmatically Comprehensive Model for Delivering Care to Patients with Multiple Chronic Conditions

An increasing proportion of healthcare resources in the United States are directed toward an expanding group of complex and multimorbid patients. Federal stakeholders have called for new models of care to meet the needs of these patients. Minimally Disruptive Medicine (MDM) is a theory-based, patient-centered, and context-sensitive approach to care that focuses on achieving patient goals for life and health while imposing the smallest possible treatment burden on patients' lives. The MDM Care Model is designed to be pragmatically comprehensive, meaning that it aims to address any and all factors that impact the implementation and effectiveness of care for patients with multiple chronic conditions. It comprises core activities that map to an underlying and testable theoretical framework. This encourages refinement and future study. Here, we present the conceptual rationale for and a practical approach to minimally disruptive care for patients with multiple chronic conditions. We introduce some of the specific tools and strategies that can be used to identify the right care for these patients and to put it into practice.
Analysis of Human Phagocyte Flavocytochrome b558 by Mass Spectrometry

The catalytic core of the phagocyte NADPH oxidase is a heterodimeric integral membrane protein (flavocytochrome b (Cyt b)) that generates superoxide and initiates a cascade of reactive oxygen species critical for the host inflammatory response. In order to facilitate structural characterization, the present study reports the first direct analysis of human phagocyte Cyt b by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization and nanoelectrospray mass spectrometry. Mass analysis of in-gel tryptic digest samples provided 73% total sequence coverage of the gp91phox subunit, including three of the six proposed transmembrane domains. Similar analysis of the p22phox subunit provided 72% total sequence coverage, including assignment of the hydrophobic N-terminal region and residues that are polymorphic in the human population. To initiate mass analysis of Cyt b post-translational modifications, the isolated gp91phox subunit was subject to sequential in-gel digestion with Flavobacterium meningosepticum peptide N-glycosidase F and trypsin, with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry used to demonstrate that Asn-132, -149, and -240 are genuinely modified by N-linked glycans in human neutrophils. Since the PLB-985 cell line represents an important model system for analysis of the NADPH oxidase, methods were developed for the purification of Cyt b from PLB-985 membrane fractions in order to confirm the appropriate modification of N-linked glycosylation sites on the recombinant gp91phox subunit. This study reports extensive sequence coverage of the integral membrane protein Cyt b by mass spectrometry and provides analytical methods that will be useful for evaluating posttranslational modifications involved in the regulation of superoxide production.
On the indicator function of the plurality function

Abstract If each of a group of ‘experts’ or ‘voters’, human or artificial, gives his or her first choice from among a set of alternatives A , a consensus function assigns to each such set of choices a subset of A called the group's consensus. The plurality function chooses for the consensus all alternatives that receive the largest number of first choices. We state a characterization of the plurality function interpreted as giving a vector of 0's and 1's, with the 1 representing membership in the consensus subset. The problem of generalizing this result in various ways gives new insight into the plurality function and leads to the problem of solving an interesting new functional equation.
Semiotics Ideology and Femininity in Popular Pakistani Women's Magazines

Drawing on theoretical perspectives from Western feminist research on the genre of women's magazines, I adapt Lazar's model of feminist critical discourse analysis (2005; henceforth referred to as FCDA) to write a critique on the genre of popular Pakistani women's magazines as linguistic and semiotic constructs, which articulate a certain ideology regarding the construction of Pakistani womens' identity. Through semiotic analysis of certain sections of the magazines, I point out the underlying normative and ideological assumptions in order to show how these magazine representations position women; and how semiotics wield power in marginalizing the role of women in society. The restrictive nature of discourses on femininities is highlighted through an analysis of discursive linguistic and semiotic techniques and devices. I argue that the role of semiotics is central in shaping and reinforcing such asymmetrical, gendered and sexist social patterns and practices and that these images (can) have repercussions with regard to women's sexuality(ies) and their social roles and identities.
Graphical Approach for Determining Whether Absorption and Elimination Rate Constants are Equal in the One-Compartment Open Model with First-Order Processes

An equation was developed which enables blood level data to be utilized for determining whether or not the first-order absorption and elimination rate constants are equal in the one-compartment open model. This equation was tested using simulated data with excellent results.
Facilitation of excitatory post-synaptic potentials in the giant cell in the left pleural ganglion of Aplysia californica

Abstract 1. 1. Heterosynaptic facilitation (HSF) was found to begin to develop after a latency of between 1900 and 2000 msec after which the amplitude of HSF increased as a function of the prime test interval. 2. 2. Changes in the amplitude of the HSF could last as long as 42 hr. 3. 3. The HSF in the pleural giant cell was of greater amplitude than that in the abdominal giant cell.
Multipoint Linkage Analysis with Many Multiallelic or Dense Diallelic Markers: Markov Chain–Monte Carlo Provides Practical Approaches for Genome Scans on General Pedigrees

Computations for genome scans need to adapt to the increasing use of dense diallelic markers as well as of full-chromosome multipoint linkage analysis with either diallelic or multiallelic markers. Whereas suitable exact-computation tools are available for use with small pedigrees, equivalent exact computation for larger pedigrees remains infeasible. Markov chain–Monte Carlo (MCMC)–based methods currently provide the only computationally practical option. To date, no systematic comparison of the performance of MCMC-based programs is available, nor have these programs been systematically evaluated for use with dense diallelic markers. Using simulated data, we evaluate the performance of two MCMC-based linkage-analysis programs—lm_markers from the MORGAN package and SimWalk2—under a variety of analysis conditions. Pedigrees consisted of 14, 52, or 98 individuals in 3, 5, or 6 generations, respectively, with increasing amounts of missing data in larger pedigrees. One hundred replicates of markers and trait data were simulated on a 100-cM chromosome, with up to 10 multiallelic and up to 200 diallelic markers used simultaneously for computation of multipoint LOD scores. Exact computation was available for comparison in most situations, and comparison with a perfectly informative marker or interprogram comparison was available in the remaining situations. Our results confirm the accuracy of both programs in multipoint analysis with multiallelic markers on pedigrees of varied sizes and missing-data patterns, but there are some computational differences. In contrast, for large numbers of dense diallelic markers, only the lm_markers program was able to provide accurate results within a computationally practical time. Thus, programs in the MORGAN package are the first available to provide a computationally practical option for accurate linkage analyses in genome scans with both large numbers of diallelic markers and large pedigrees.
Simulation optimization: multi-response simulation optimization using stochastic genetic search within a goal programming framework

This study presents a new approach to solve multi-response simulation optimization problems. This approach integrates a simulation model with a genetic algorithm heuristic and a goal programming model. The genetic algorithm technique offers a very flexible and reliable tool able to search for a solution within a global context. This method was modified to perform the search considering the mean and the variance of the responses. In this way, the search is performed stochastically, and not deterministically like most of the approaches reported in the literature. The goal programming model integrated with the genetic algorithm and the stochastic search present a new approach able to lead a search towards a multi-objective solution.
The Nature of CUA in Cytochrome c Oxidase

The isolation and purification of yeast cytochrome c oxidase is described. Characterization of the purified protein indicates that it is spectroscopically identical with cytochrome c oxidase isolated from beef heart. Preparations of isotopically substituted yeast cytochrome c oxidase are obtained incorporating [1,3-15N2]histidine or [beta,beta- 2H2]cysteine. Electron paramagnetic resonance and electron nuclear double resonance spectra of the isotopically substituted proteins identify unambiguously at least 1 cysteine and 1 histidine as ligands to CuA and suggest that substantial spin density is delocalized onto a cysteine sulfur in the oxidized protein to render the site Cu(I)-S.
Brief Synchronized multiple spacecraft rotations

The objective of this paper is to present formation control laws for maintaining attitude alignment among a group of spacecraft in either deep space or earth orbit. The paper presents two control strategies based on emergent behavior approaches. Each control strategy considers the desired formation behaviors of convergence to the final formation goal, formation keeping, and the desire to rotate the spacecraft about fixed axes. The first approach uses velocity feedback and the second approach used passivity-based damping. In addition, we prove analytically that our approach guarantees formation keeping throughout the maneuver. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach.
Volume-stimulated, Cl(-)-dependent K+ efflux is highly expressed in young human red cells containing normal hemoglobin or HbS.

We report here that a Cl−-dependent K− (K∶Cl) efflux, which is stimulated by N-ethylmaleimide, (NEM) and by increased red cell volume, exists in young red cells of individuals with normal hemoglobin A (AA) and in those homozygous for hemoglobin S (SS). We have investigated this K∶Cl efflux in several density-defined red cell fractions obtained from Percoll-Stractan continuous density gradients. We found high activity of the NEM-stimulated K∶Cl transport in reticulocytes and young red cells from nine sickle cell (SS) patients (43±27 mean±sd mmol K+/liter of cells/hr=flux units (FU)) and in the young cell fraction of three AA individuals with high reticulocytosis recuperating from nutritional anemias (41.7±10 FU). In addition, we observed significant interindividual variation of this K∶Cl efflux in the discocyte fraction of SS blood. Cell swelling markedly stimulated the K∶Cl efflux, in SS whole blood (9.8±7.4 FU, in SS young cells (13±13 FU), and in AA young cells (21.4±11 FU). The activity of the Na−K−Cl cotransport, as estimated by the bumetanide sensitive K+ efflux was not found to be cell-age dependent in either AA or SS cells. Measurements of red cell density by isopycnic gradients indicated that 27% of the young cells reduce their volume by a Cl−-dependent process in hypotonic or low pH-induced swelling. The large volume-stimulated K∶Cl efflux in AA young cells raises the possibility that these fluxes may be involved in the maturation of erythropoietic precursors. The high activity in the red cells of sickle cell anemia patients and its interindividual variation may have pathophysiological consequences since it reverses the decrease in the intracellular concentration of hemoglobin which occurs in response to low pH or osmolarity, an unwelcome pro-sickling event.
Electromagnetic interaction of higher-spin fields

The electromagnetic interaction of fields of spins $\frac{3}{2}$ and 2 is investigated with the use of the ghost-field formalism. It is thus shown that the canonical formalism for interacting higher-spin fields can be developed in a straightforward manner, which avoids the complexities and controversies of the conventional formalism. Our detailed treatment of the Lorentz invariance of the scattering operator and the gauge invariance of the photon self-energy resulting from spin-$\frac{3}{2}$ fermion and spin-2 boson loops shows that the quantum theory of interacting spin-$\frac{3}{2}$ and spin-2 fields does not present any unusual difficulty. However, the electromagnetic interaction of both of these fields is nonrenormalizable, which is expected from power-counting arguments as well as supported by explicit calculations.
Collusion in a three-tier hierarchy: Credible beliefs and pure self-interest

Abstract The assumption of a purely self-interested supervisor in the principal–supervisor–agent framework gives rise to the possibility of supervisor–agent collusion. In this paper, I show that equilibrium refinement assumptions on type belief updating during side contract negotiations can guarantee that collusion occurs. Even if the principal is allowed to manipulate the incentives in the contract he offers, the only way to prevent collusion is to ignore the supervisor. Thus the role of a purely self-interested supervisor, in this case, is questioned. Lastly, I discuss some plausible alternatives and explanations of the assumption of pure self-interest.
Systemic interleukin-1β stimulates the simultaneous release of norepinephrine in the paraventricular nucleus and the median eminence

Interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), a cytokine with pronounced central effects such as fever, anorexia, analgesia, etc., is also known to activate the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) neurons located in the hypothalamus are important for HPA activation. The cell bodies of CRH neurons are located in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and their terminals are present in the median eminence (ME). Although the catecholamines, norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) are believed to be crucial factors in the stimulation of CRH neurons, it is not clear if they affect the cell bodies or terminals of these neurons to cause HPA activation. This study was done to determine if IL-1beta affects NE and DA release at the level of CRH cell bodies or their terminals. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were implanted with two push-pull cannulae, one in the PVN and another in the ME, and were subjected to push-pull perfusion. They were treated either with 0, 1 or 5 microg of IL-1beta. Perfusates were collected for 2 h after treatment and analyzed for NE concentrations using HPLC-EC. NE levels in the control and low dose groups did not change significantly during the entire period of observation both in the PVN and ME. In contrast, treatment with 5 microg of IL-1beta produced a marked increase in NE release in the PVN at 20 and 40 min post-treatment. NE release in the ME increased from 10 to 140 min post-treatment. There were no significant changes in the release of DA from both these areas. These results indicate that IL-1beta increases NE levels both in the PVN and in the ME and this could be a possible mechanism by which it stimulates the HPA axis.
Supramolecular one-dimensional objects

Abstract Preparing polymer-like materials through supramolecular chemistry is an area of growing interest, yet full understanding of how non-covalent forces may be used to prepare such materials is lacking and as a result the success of these strategies is often serendipitous. Recent examples of discrete one-dimensional supramolecular fibers employing the most important types of non-covalent interactions (metal coordination, hydrogen bonding, π–π stacking, hydrophobic effect) illustrate our current ability to prepare these types of materials and point the way for future designs.
Some optimal traffic regulation schemes for ATM networks: a Markov decision approach

Some new traffic regulation schemes are defined in terms of a relief-spacing (or spacing of the allowance for cell delivery to the network) function. The class of open-loop traffic regulators (TR's) is defined in terms of relief-spacing functions which depend on some user-state; this class may be viewed as an extension of the Spacer-Controller defined in terms of some constant (user-state independent) relief-function. The optimal open-loop TR's are derived by formulating proper optimization problems and applying a Markov decision approach. Numerical results illustrate the improved performance of the optimal open-loop TR over that of the (constant relief-spacing) Spacer-Controller. Finally, the class of closed-loop TR's is defined in terms of relief-spacing functions which depend on both some user- and some network-state information and its optimal element is derived. The improved performance under the optimal closed-loop TR over that of the optimal open-loop TR is illustrated and their difference determines the performance gain if feedback information can become available on time. >
The interrupted sacrifice: Hegemony and moral crisis among Israeli conscientious objectors

In this article, I explain why some of the most elite and dedicated soldiers in the Israeli Defense Forces ultimately became conscientious objectors. I argue that because the sacrificial moral economy, and not the state as supersubject, was hegemonically inculcated in these young people, resistance was possible. This case prompts a reconsideration of anthropological understandings of the relationship between hegemonic inculcation and resistance. Specifically, we cannot only ask to what degree subjects subscribe to hegemony but we must also ask what specifically is inculcated and how this alters agency and its object.
Performance analysis and cost optimization of a solar-assisted heat pump system

Abstract A solar-assisted heat pump system with a conventional backup unit was simulated for a 93 m 2 (1000 ft 2 ) house in Rhode Island using quasi-dynamic computer models. The performance of the system as a function of collector area and thermal storage volume was evaluated to determine the fraction of the space heating and domestic hot water load that was supplied by the solar-assisted system. This information was used to compute the payback time, based on cumulative costs, for each variation of the system's parameters when compared to a conventional system. The optimal combination of system components which had a payback time less than the mortgage life was determined. For the given initial costs of solar panels and storage reservoir, this optimal combination was found to be insensitive to the variations in mortgage and fuel cost growth rates presented in this report.
Projecting values online: an e-tailing goldmine?

One of the most critical success factors for an online organisation is the creation of trust. Another important factor in online success is value congruence. This paper explores the role of value congruence and trust in the B2C e-commerce environment. Specifically, it explores how the perceived actions, or lack of actions, of organisations regarding moral, social, environmental and political issues affect e-commerce users in their trusting beliefs and their behavioural intentions to do business with those organisations. This study shows a very strong and significant direct link between value congruence and behavioural intentions.
The concept of a quasi-particle and the non-probabilistic interpretation of wave mechanics

In recent works of the author [Found. Phys. 36 (2006) 1701-1717; Math. Comput. Simul. 74 (2007) 93-103], the argument has been made that Hertz's equations of electrodynamics reflect the material invariance (indifference) of the latter. Then the principle of material invariance was postulated in lieu of Lorentz covariance, and the respective absolute medium was named the metacontinuum. Here, we go further to assume that the metacontinuum is a very thin but very stiff 3D hypershell in the 4D space. The equation for the deflection of the shell along the fourth dimension is the ''master'' nonlinear dispersive equation of wave mechanics whose linear part (Euler-Bernoulli equation) is nothing else but the Schrodinger wave equation written for the real or the imaginary part of the wave function. The wave function has a clear non-probabilistic interpretation as the actual amplitude of the flexural deformation. The ''master'' equation admits solitary-wave solutions/solitons that behave as quasi-particles (QPs). We stipulate that particles are our perception of the QPs (schaumkommen in Schrodinger's own words). We show the passage from the continuous Lagrangian of the field to the discrete Lagrangian of the centers of QPs and introduce the concept of (pseudo)mass. We interpret the membrane tension as an attractive (gravitational?) force acting between the QPs. Thus, a self-consistent unification of electrodynamics, wave mechanics, gravitation, and the wave-particle duality is achieved.
Is there a little PNH in all of us

Comment on Hu et al, page [3848][1] Cells with PNH-like characteristics can be selected and grown in vitro from CD34+ progenitors isolated from healthy donors. These findings suggest that PIGA mutations develop during normal hematopoietic differentiation and are not sufficient for the development
The relation between Ashworth scores and neuromechanical measurements of spasticity following stroke.

Background: Spasticity is a common impairment that follows stroke, and it results typically in functional loss. For this reason, accurate quantification of spasticity has both diagnostic and therapeutic significance. The most widely used clinical assessment of spasticity is the modified Ashworth scale (MAS), an ordinal scale, but its validity, reliability and sensitivity have often been challenged. The present study addresses this deficit by examining whether quantitative measures of neural and muscular components of spasticity are valid, and whether they are strongly correlated with the MAS. Methods: We applied abrupt small amplitude joint stretches and Pseudorandom Binary Sequence (PRBS) perturbations to both paretic and non-paretic elbow and ankle joints of stroke survivors. Using advanced system identification techniques, we quantified the dynamic stiffness of these joints, and separated its muscular (intrinsic) and reflex components. The correlations between these quantitative measures and the MAS were investigated. Results: We showed that our system identification technique is valid in characterizing the intrinsic and reflex stiffness and predicting the overall net torque. Conversely, our results reveal that there is no significant correlation between muscular and reflex torque/stiffness and the MAS magnitude. We also demonstrate that the slope and intercept of reflex and intrinsic stiffnesses plotted against the joint angle are not correlated with the MAS. Conclusion: Lack of significant correlation between our quantitative measures of stroke effects on spastic joints and the clinical assessment of muscle tone, as reflected in the MAS suggests that the MAS does not provide reliable information about the origins of the torque change associated with spasticity, or about its contributing components.
Characterization of flutemetamol binding in autopsy brains from [C-11]PiB-imaged subjects

imager with the parameters including: 60 Hz motion, FOV 1⁄4 25.6 cm, 60x60 imaging matrix reconstructed to 64x64, 3x ASSET acceleration, 2.5 mm thick slices (skip 1.5 mm) and 4 phase offsets requiring 3.5 minute acquisition time (figure 1). The first harmonic data were inverted with a 3D direct inversion algorithm. The median stiffness for each individual was calculated from a global region of interest excluding SNR 30%CSF content.Results: The median stiffness of the 14 CN subjects was 2.37 kPa (range: 2.17-2.62 kPa) compared to 2.32 kPa (range: 2.18-67 kPa) within the CN + group and 2.20 kPa (range: 1.96-2.29 kPa) within the AD group. A significant difference was found between the three groups with both CN groups significantly different from the AD group (table 1). Conclusions: The results demonstrate that AD pathology alters the mechanical properties of the brain which can be measured in vivo by MRE. Brain MRE is a new imaging modality that provides a unique class of information which heretofore has not been applied to AD. Measures of brain elasticity may provide unique insights into the fundamental ultrastructural alterations in the brain that occur with AD, as well as how these change with time, correlate with other disease biomarkers and with clinical expression of the disease.
Improved Video Registration using Non-Distinctive Local Image Features

The task of registering video frames with a static model is a common problem in many computer vision domains. The standard approach to registration involves finding point correspondences between the video and the model and using those correspondences to numerically determine registration transforms. Current methods locate video-to-model point correspondences by assembling a set of reference images to represent the model and then detecting and matching invariant local image features between the video frames and the set of reference images. These methods work well when all video frames can be guaranteed to contain a sufficient number of distinctive visual features. However, as we demonstrate, these methods are prone to severe misregistration errors in domains where many video frames lack distinctive image features. To overcome these errors, we introduce a concept of local distinctiveness which allows us to find model matches for nearly all video features, regardless of their distinctiveness on a global scale. We present results from the American football domain-where many video frames lack distinctive image features-which show a drastic improvement in registration accuracy over current methods. In addition, we introduce a simple, empirical stability test that allows our method to be fully automated. Finally, we present a registration dataset from the American football domain we hope can be used as a benchmarking tool for registration methods.
Airborne carbon deposition on a remote forested lake

Airborne inputs of terrestrial particulate organic carbon (TPOC) were measured during summ- er stratification for an oligotrophic north temperate lake located in a forested watershed. These inputs were episodic and associated with wind and rain events. The rate of deposition decreased exponentially with distance from shore. Yet, about 55 % of the total airborne TPOC input occurred more than 12 m from shore on this 25.8 ha lake. Of total deposition, 39 % was less than 153 mm in diameter - a size fraction not commonly measured in prior studies. Average air- borne deposition was 5 mg C m -2 d -1 , which is consistent with measurements from other lakes and equivalent to about 1.1 % of daily net primary production in our study lake. C:N ratios of TPOC were between 6:1 and 22:1 (molar), much lower than the values for terrestrial leaves which were between 39:1 and 48:1 (molar). These low C:N ratios suggest that TPOC may be a useful substrate for aquatic consumers and may supplement in-lake primary production as a food source, especially after wind and rain events when airborne TPOC inputs are high.
Does Race Influence Conflict Between Nursing Home Staff and Family Members of Residents

Objectives. This study examines the influence of race on perceived similarity and conflict between nursing home staff and family members of residents. Despite evidence that the caregiving experience varies by race for both family and professional caregivers, little is known about how race plays a role in staff conflict with residents’ family members. Methods. We used a representative sample of Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) to test relationships between race, treatment from family members, similarity to family members in expectations for care by CNAs, and conflicts with family members concerning aspects of resident care. Results. Results of structural equation modeling indicated that race was not a predictor of staff perception of conflict with family members or of poor treatment from residents’ families. However, Black nursing assistants were more likely to perceive that their own expectations of nursing care are dissimilar from those of residents’ family members. Dissimilarity predicted reports of poor treatment from family members, and poor treatment was a positive predictor of perception of conflict.
AtlA Functions as a Peptidoglycan Lytic Transglycosylase in the Neisseria gonorrhoeae Type IV Secretion System

Type IV secretion systems require peptidoglycan lytic transglycosylases for efficient secretion, but the function of these enzymes is not clear. The type IV secretion system gene cluster of Neisseria gonorrhoeae encodes two peptidoglycan transglycosylase homologues. One, LtgX, is similar to peptidoglycan transglycosylases from other type IV secretion systems. The other, AtlA, is similar to endolysins from bacteriophages and is not similar to any described type IV secretion component. We characterized the enzymatic function of AtlA in order to examine its role in the type IV secretion system. Purified AtlA was found to degrade macromolecular peptidoglycan and to produce 1,6-anhydro peptidoglycan monomers, characteristic of lytic transglycosylase activity. We found that AtlA can functionally replace the lambda endolysin to lyse Escherichia coli. In contrast, a sensitive measure of lysis demonstrated that AtlA does not lyse gonococci expressing it or gonococci cocultured with an AtlA-expressing strain. The gonococcal type IV secretion system secretes DNA during growth. A deletion of ltgX or a substitution in the putative active site of AtlA severely decreased DNA secretion. These results indicate that AtlA and LtgX are actively involved in type IV secretion and that AtlA is not involved in lysis of gonococci to release DNA. This is the first demonstration that a type IV secretion peptidoglycanase has lytic transglycosylase activity. These data show that AtlA plays a role in type IV secretion of DNA that requires peptidoglycan breakdown without cell lysis.
The in vitro Evaluation of Conspergents on Selected Enteric Coatings

A study was made of conspergents which may be suitable for use with enteric coating solutions. Brenner's modified method and the British Pharmacopoeial method were used. It was found that disintegration rates varied with the methods employed and the number of applications necessary for an enteric coating varied with the substances used.
A Pharmaceutical Marketing Plan for the 21st Century: Sociopolitical Environment as a Marketing Factor

(1996). A Pharmaceutical Marketing Plan for the 21st Century: Sociopolitical Environment as a Marketing Factor. Journal of Pharmaceutical Marketing & Management: Vol. 10, No. 2-3, pp. 121-130.
Shareholder gains from callable‐bond refundings

A re-examination indicates that current procedures for measuring the benefit realized by shareholders when a firm calls and refunds an outstanding debt obligation are mis-specified. The key to a proper measurement is found to lie in the identification of the extinguished remaining-time-to-maturity value of the exercised option on the called debt. A simple procedure for assessing that value is provided and incorporated into a corrected measure of the gains from a callable-bond refunding.
Neural muscular delays in Equilibrium Point model of human arm trajectory

The aim of this paper is to investigate the human arm's sensory-motor control mechanism in the trajectory planning of arm movement in the transverse plane. According to the Equilibrium Point Hypothesis, the equilibrium configuration of joint angles and muscle torques are defined as a single variable called the Equilibrium Point (EP). Further, control systems reset the EP by shifting the invariant characteristic (IC) which initiates muscle activation and movement. The duration and sequences of shifting, however, are unclear. This work utilizes the Spike Triggering Averaging (STA) technique integrated with simultaneous EMG and joint positions to find the sequences, but the nature of EMG signal does not favor the STA. The raw EMG signals were used to project sequences and time delay for the model of simulation. Our results exhibit an improvement in trajectory accuracy with decreased time delay.
Do all ducks lay eggs? The generic overgeneralization effect

Generics are statements such as ''tigers are striped'' and ''ducks lay eggs''. They express general, though not universal or exceptionless, claims about kinds (Carlson & Pelletier, 1995). For example, the generic ''ducks lay eggs'' seems true even though many ducks (e.g. the males) do not lay eggs. The universally quantified version of the statement should be rejected, however: it is incorrect to say ''all ducks lay eggs'', since many ducks do not lay eggs. We found that adults nonetheless often judged such universal statements true, despite knowing that only one gender had the relevant property (Experiment 1). The effect was not due to participants interpreting the universals as quantifying over subkinds, or as applying to only a subset of the kind (e.g. only the females) (Experiment 2), and it persisted even when people judged that male ducks did not lay eggs only moments before (Experi- ment 3). It also persisted when people were presented with correct alternatives such as ''some ducks do not lay eggs'' (Experiment 4). Our findings reveal a robust generic overgen- eralization effect, predicted by the hypothesis that generics express primitive, default generalizations.
An apolipoprotein B antisense oligonucleotide lowers LDL cholesterol in hyperlipidemic mice without causing hepatic steatosis

High levels of plasma apolipoprotein B-100 (apoB-100), the principal apolipoprotein of LDL, are associated with cardiovascular disease. We hypothesized that suppression of apoB-100 mRNA by an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) would reduce LDL cholesterol (LDL-C). Because most of the plasma apoB is made in the liver, and antisense drugs distribute to that organ, we tested the effects of a mouse-specific apoB-100 ASO in several mouse models of hyperlipidemia, including C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet, Apoe-deficient mice, and Ldlr-deficient mice. The lead apoB-100 antisense compound, ISIS 147764, reduced apoB-100 mRNA levels in the liver and serum apoB-100 levels in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Consistent with those findings, total cholesterol and LDL-C decreased by 25-55% and 40-88%, respectively. Unlike small-molecule inhibitors of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein, ISIS 147764 did not produce hepatic or intestinal steatosis and did not affect dietary fat absorption or elevate plasma transaminase levels. These findings, as well as those derived from interim phase I data with a human apoB-100 antisense drug, suggest that antisense inhibition of this target may be a safe and effective approach for the treatment of humans with hyperlipidemia.
The nutrient digestibility of high-protein corn distillers dried grains and the effect of feeding various levels on the performance of laying hens

SUMMARY Currently, corn fractionation technologies are being developed by some ethanol plants in an attempt to improve ethanol yield. Front-end fractionation technology involves separating the endosperm, germ, and bran fractions before fermentation. The endosperm fraction is fermented to produce ethanol and a feed coproduct, which is often called high-protein corn distillers dried grains (HP-cDDG). In general, HP-cDDG from the front-end fractionation process is higher in protein and amino acids but lower in fat and phosphorus than traditional corn distillers dried grains with solubles. In experiment 1, a total of 8 samples were analyzed for TMEn, and a total of 7 samples were analyzed for total and digestible amino acids by the precision-fed conventional rooster assay and cecectomized rooster assay, respectively. The average (and range) TMEn, protein, fat, and fiber values for 8 HP-cDDG samples were 2,851 kcal/kg (2,667 to 3,282 kcal/kg), 44.0 (42.2 to 45.9), 3.03 (1.89 to 5.40), and 7.42% (6.98 to 9.20%; as-fed basis), respectively. The average (and range) total lysine concentration and digestibility coefficient of HP-cDDG were 1.23 (1.13 to 1.38) and 76.1% (67.5 to 85.6%). Experiment 2 was conducted to evaluate the feeding value of HP-cDDG from a plant using front-end fractionation on the performance of laying hens. Five experimental diets were formulated to contain 0, 3, 6, 9, or 12% HP-cDDG. The mash diets were fed to 15 replications of 6 Hy-Line W-36 laying hens per replication from 21 to 41 wk of age. The addition of 3% HP-cDDG significantly improved egg mass as compared with eggs from hens fed the control diet. Overall, at 41 wk no difference in FE, egg yolk color, or specific gravity was attributable to the addition of up to 12% HP-cDDG to the diets as compared with hens fed the control diet. It is important that confirmatory analysis be conducted before using a new fermentation by-product from a new plant or supplier. Highprotein corn distillers dried grains is an acceptable feed ingredient when up to 12% is used in a standard laying hen diet during peak production.
Multiple roll systems: Residence times and dynamic response

In roll coating as in other coating processes the coating liquid often suffers changes in properties on the time of the coating flow, that is, from fractions of a second upward depending on the amount of recirculation and recycling. The agents of change may be chemical reaction, colloidal aggregation, or evaporation. Hence the mean residence time and the residence time distribution of the liquid are important to designers and operators of coating processes. Here, building on the examination of roll-coating systems by Benjamin et al. (1995), the residence times of liquid coated by representative arrays of multiple rolls in the “forward roll” mode and relatively starved feed condition (neglecting the possibly significant effects of “rolling banks” and other internal recirculations when they are present) are analyzed. The dynamic response of these transfer coaters to step changes in the feed gap and to periodic gap changes, as from roll and bearing run-out, are also analyzed. No reports of operating or laboratory experiments are available for comparison. Nevertheless the results make plain how these quality-limiting features may depend don the number of rolls used; their sizes, speed, and arrangement, and the properties of the coating liquid.
Financial incentive of home continuous positive airway pressure machine use in the inpatient hospital setting.

Objectives/Hypothesis Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is increasingly recognized as a significant factor in perioperative and inpatient health. Because of this, hospitalized OSA patients are encouraged to utilize continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy while inpatients. We investigated the cost difference of patient-owned versus hospital-provided CPAP machine use by admitted adult patients with OSA. Study Design Prospective cohort study at a tertiary academic center. Methods All new-patient admissions >18 years of age who were prescribed CPAP while inpatients over a 2-month period were included. Demographic information was collected, and cost analysis was performed. Results CPAP was used for 162 (1.2%) admissions. Mean patient age was 59 ± 13 years; the majority were white (56.8%) and male (64.2%). Average CPAP utilization was 5.3 ± 5.5 nights. The differential cost per day for patients using hospital-provided CPAP was $416.10 more than for patients using home CPAP machines. This cost included direct costs of an extended respiratory therapy (RT) initial visit, machine rental fee ($27.50), and additional RT evaluation time (mean, 85–145 relative value units). The base initial visit was the same for all patients. Over the 2-month study period, the total cost difference in charges was $195,912; this extrapolates to $1,175,471 yearly. Conclusions This is the first study to characterize the magnitude of cost savings from utilization of home versus hospital-provided CPAP machines in patients requiring inpatient CPAP machine use. The use of patient-owned CPAP machines may reflect an opportunity to provide cheaper care while maintaining high patient safety and quality care. The actual economic impact to an individual hospital would vary based on the insurance payer mix. Level of Evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 124:2200–2204, 2014
Cardiovascular Disease Among Survivors of Adult-Onset Cancer: A Community-Based Retrospective Cohort Study.

PurposeCardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including ischemic heart disease, stroke, and heart failure, are well-established late effects of therapy in survivors of childhood and young adult (< 40 years at diagnosis) cancers; less is known regarding CVD in long-term survivors of adult-onset (≥ 40 years) cancer.MethodsA retrospective cohort study design was used to describe the magnitude of CVD risk in 36,232 ≥ 2-year survivors of adult-onset cancer compared with matched (age, sex, and residential ZIP code) noncancer controls (n = 73,545) within a large integrated managed care organization. Multivariable regression was used to examine the impact of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs; hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia) on long-term CVD risk in cancer survivors.ResultsSurvivors of multiple myeloma (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.70; P < .01), carcinoma of the lung/bronchus (IRR, 1.58; P < .01), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (IRR, 1.41; P < .01), and breast cancer (IRR, 1.13; P < .01) had significantly higher CVD risk w...
Pathologies Resulting from Aberrant Immune Responses

During the first decade of the twentieth century, investigators reported that the immune response causes pathology as well as protects the individual from infectious microorganisms. Paul Portier and Charles Richet discovered anaphylaxis in 1902 while Clemens von Pirquet and Bela Schick described manifestations of serum sickness in 1905. These reports stimulated the study of additional pathologies induced by aberrant responses of the adaptive immune system. During the next half century, several other types of immune-mediated pathologies were described including the skin reactivity to tuberculin (Hans Zinsser in 1921; Merrill Chase and Karl Landsteiner in 1942) and erythroblastosis fetalis (Phillip Levine and Rufus Stetson in 1939). By the early 1960s the field of immunopathology seemed extremely complex with a bewildering array of diseases, each with a unique mechanism. In 1963, Phillip Gell and Robin Coombs developed a classification system for immune-mediated hypersensitivity reactions. They described four types of immunological mechanisms (IgE mediated; antibody mediated; immune complex mediated; T lymphocyte mediated) that could account for the vast majority of pathologies caused by aberrant immune responses. Two additional pathological mechanisms have been attributed subsequently to aberrant immune responses—the cytokine storm induced by toxins from certain bacteria and the cross-reactivity between microbes and self-tissue that can lead to autoimmunity.