cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Biology and Therapy.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), the most common leukemia in the western world, is characterized by the accumulation of monoclonal B-lymphocytes in the bone marrow and lymphoid organs. Signaling via the B-cell receptor and Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) as well as resistance to apoptosis mediated by Bcl-2 are hallmarks of CLL biology and have been exploited in recent years to revolutionize management. As a result of the development of novel therapies, most CLL patients now can be spared conventional chemotherapy and can be treated using highly effective regimens consisting of BTK inhibitors, the Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax, and anti -CD20 monoclonal antibodies. The impact of novel therapies is particularly pronounced for high-risk cases including those with TP53 deletions/mutations who previously had a dismal outcome with conventional chemoimmunotherapy. Allogeneic HCT is a potentially curative option for selected younger patients with multiply relapsed high-risk disease.
The Causal Effects of Home Care Use on Institutional Long-Term Care Utilization and Expenditures

Limited evidence exists on whether expanding home care saves money overall or how much institutional long-term care can be reduced. This paper estimates the causal effect of Medicaid-financed home care services on the costs and utilization of institutional long-term care using Medicaid claims data. A unique instrumental variable was applied to address the potential bias caused by omitted variables or reverse effect of institutional care use. We find that the use of Medicaid-financed home care services significantly reduced but only partially offset utilization and Medicaid expenditures on nursing facility services. A $1000 increase in Medicaid home care expenditures avoided 2.75 days in nursing facilities and reduced annual Medicaid nursing facility costs by $351 among people over age 65 when selection bias is addressed. Failure to address selection biases would misestimate the substitution and offset effects. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chapter 11 What is Functional Genomics Teaching us about Intraocular Pressure Regulation and Glaucoma

Publisher Summary Glaucoma is a complex disease characterized by the degeneration of the optic nerve and subsequent loss of vision. The disease affects a large number of people, especially those among the older population. The causes leading to the development of glaucoma can be the result of the dysfunction of several tissues. The major risk for glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure that is the consequence of an improper regulation of aqueous humor outflow in the anterior segment of the eye (ciliary body and trabecular meshwork). Elevated pressure in turn, affects the posterior segment by exerting mechanical strain on the optic nerve and provoking deformation, distortion of axonal flow, and death of the nerve cells (lamina cribrosa and retinal ganglion cells). The function of any given tissue is governed by the regulation of expression of its genes. Functional genomics offers an invaluable tool to identify the molecular differences affecting the cells under conditions associated with glaucoma. This chapter discusses such changes. Because of the wide scope of the project, this chapter briefly discusses studies in all tissues and then concentrates on those conducted on the trabecular meshwork, the keeper of outflow resistance. It analyzes and correlates internal data with that of other laboratories and builds a molecular signature for trabecular meshwork pathophysiology. The chapter identifies and presents a set of 40 genes. These include new genes involved in known trabecular meshwork physiology and genes representative of new processes and mechanisms.
Solar Cycle Review (General Aspects)

Several topics are discussed in this review of the solar cycle. The basic solar-interplanetary magnetic structure is considered, and the high speed solar wind streams and their sunspot cycle variation are described, with attention to the sunspot cycle variation, the high speed solar wind streams and geomagnetic disturbances, and the causes of changes of the north-south component of the interplanetary magnetic field. Solar storms, solar flares, and magnetic bubbles are examined with attention directed to the solar cycle variation of transient polar activities and the interplanetary disturbances associated with solar storms. Some features of cosmic rays, the 11-year cycle variation and the Forbush decreases, are considered. Attention is also directed to the terrestrial atmosphere and to the outer planets and their relation to the solar cycle.
An Efficient Scanning/Sampling Method for Echo Planar Magnetic Resonance Imaging

This paper presents an efficient spiral scanning/sampling method and its associated reconstruction algorithm for echo planar Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) systems. The spiral scan data are represented in terms of evenly spaced samples from a nonlinear two-dimensional transformation of the Cartesian spatial frequency domain. This transformation enables us to use unified Fourier reconstruction sampling principles [5] to obtain an accurate reconstruction based on a set of constraints imposed on the spiral parameters. The results are then utilized to develop efficient sampling strategies for spiral scans. Sampling efficiency for spiral data, analogous to the sampling efficiencies of hexagonally and rectangularly sampled data, is defined. A sampling scheme on a spiral is introduced that possesses a uniform sampling efficiency comparable to the sampling efficiency of rectangularly sampled data.
Can keeping clinical trial participants blind to their study treatment adversely affect subsequent care

Subjects in controlled clinical trials obtain experience with study-provided treatment that could inform their further therapy by awareness of the efficacy or inefficacy of the study treatment they received. However, patients in blinded trials typically do not learn right after their participation what treatment they actually received during the study, even though it is possible to do so while maintaining the necessary blinding of investigators. Keeping investigators and subjects blind to treatment assignment throughout a trial is a key element of clinical research methodology, but the value of keeping participants and their medical providers blinded after participation is less certain and may pose risks that include delay in the receipt of efficacious care, exacerbation of symptoms, or prolonged exposure to superfluous or toxic treatment. The significance of these risks is likely to vary with the specific disease and the time course of its response to available therapies. Currently, it seems appropriate for investigators a) to evaluate the risks of keeping subjects blind after participation, b) to justify doing so in relation to serious, identifiable risks to the study's validity and apprise prospective subjects clearly that information about their response to specific treatment during the trial will not be available to guide their post-study care, and c) to consider methods for debriefing subjects before their resumption of open treatment that preserve the integrity of investigator blinding. In the long-run, research on the impact that keeping subjects uninformed about study treatment has on post-study patient outcomes and on study integrity can foster the development of procedures that optimally balance both.
Biomimetic synthesis of calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite in a natural hydrogel.

Abstract A novel composite material consisting of calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite (CdHAP) biomimetically deposited in a bacterial cellulose hydrogel was synthesized and characterized. Cellulose produced by Gluconacetobacter hansenii was purified and sequentially incubated in solutions of calcium chloride followed by sodium phosphate dibasic. A substantial amount of apatite (50–90% of total dry weight) was homogeneously incorporated throughout the hydrogel after this treatment. X-ray diffractometry (XRD) showed that CdHAP crystallites had formed in the cellulose. XRD further demonstrated that the CdHAP was comprised of 10–50 nm anisotropic crystallites elongated in the c -axis, similar to natural bone apatite. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy demonstrated that hydroxyl IR bands of the cellulose shifted to lower wave numbers indicating that a coordinate bond had possibly formed between the CdHAP and the cellulose hydroxyl groups. FTIR also suggested that the CdHAP had formed from an octacalcium phosphate precursor similar to physiological bone. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirmed that uniform ∼1 μm spherical CdHAP particles comprised of nanosized crystallites with a lamellar morphology had formed in the cellulose. The synthesis of the composite mimics the natural biomineralization of bone indicating that bacterial cellulose can be used as a template for biomimetic apatite formation. This composite may have potential use as an orthopedic biomaterial.
Application of Active Microwave Thermography to delamination detection

Health monitoring of infrastructure is very important in the transportation and infrastructure industries. Many nondestructive testing (NDT) techniques have been applied for structural health monitoring including microwave NDT, ultrasound, thermography, etc. Due to the complex materials (composites, concrete, etc.) commonly used, it may be difficult to thoroughly inspect a structure using one method alone. Thus, hybrid NDT methods have also been developed. Recently, the integration of microwave NDT and thermography, herein referred to as Active Microwave Thermography (AMT), has also been considered as a potential structural health monitoring tool. This hybrid method uses microwave energy to heat a structure of interest, and then the thermal surface profile is measured using a thermal camera. This paper investigates the potential of AMT to inspect rehabilitated cement-based structures. Preliminary simulations and measurements provided herein indicate that AMT has the potential to detect delaminations under carbon fiber patches bonded to concrete.
Taking theoretical risks in a world of directional predictions

Abstract As Meehl (1978) observed, one major reason for the painfully slow progress of soft psychology is our field’s heavy reliance on directional predictions, which leads to feeble tests of theories. In the present commentary, I outline six ways of taking theoretical risks in a world of directional predictions: (1) constructive replication of findings, (2) generating multiple maximally independent predictions, (3) adherence to the total evidence rule, (4) discriminant validation of measures, (5) incremental validation of measures, and (6) according attention to higher-order personality dimensions.
Applications of a peak detection channel model

A computer model of a peak detecting magnetic recording channel has been implemented and used for channel design and performance evaluation. The model predicts raw error rate, ontrack and off-track, as a function of linear density, run-length-limited (RLL) modulation code, write precompensation rules, and tapped-delay-line (TDL) equalizer. It assumes noise additivity and validity of linear superposition. and it bases calculations on a measured disk/electronics noise spectrum and digitized isolated transition readback signals from the data track and adjacent tracks. Details of the model are described, and illustrative applications to RLL (d,k) code selection and pulse slimming equalizer design for a specific channel are discussed.
A generalized |ω|-filter for 3-D reconstruction

The 3-D reconstruction of a density function is based on a direct convolution algorithm developed first by Ramachandran and Lakshiminarayanan. Their method adopts a particular choice of weighting function or filter which is called here an |ω|-filter. In some cases this choice of filter had an undesirable oscillatory response. To remedy this problem Shepp and Logan found a weighting function which produced a better reconstruction of a head section. The filter functions of Ramachandran and Lakshminarayanan and Shepp and Logan are only two of many choices for an |ω|-filter. Shepp and Logan's filter was the best for the early tomographic machines. Their filter function provided both a damped response to the cut-off frequency and a low sensitivity to noise. For the new tomographic machines, however, it is desirable to find filters that are not sensitive to counting noise, sample size and sample spacing as the previous filters. Here a study and generalization is made of the previous |ω|-filters. It extends the important filters of Ramachandran and Lakshiminarayanan, and Shepp and Logan to a class of generalized |ω|-filters. A generalized |ω|-filter can be chosen to have both good accuracy and a flexibility to cope with noise. A detailed comparison is made among the different possible filter shapes with respect to their responses to simulated data and noise. Finally in this paper it is demonstrated that a substantial reduction in the x-ray exposure time can be accomplished by choosing the appropriate generalized |ω|-filter.
Morphology and crystal structure in single crystals of poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) prepared by melt polymerization

Using the confined thin film melt polymerization technique lamellar single crystals, of two morphologies, have been grown for poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide). Electron diffraction (e.d.) patterns from these crystals and from fibre-like samples polymerized from sheared monomer, are in best agreement with a modified phase I cell. The lattice parameters (a = 7.88, b = 5.22, c = 12.9 A; α, β, γ = 90°) are similar to those in previously proposed cells, but the Pla1 space group rather than Pn or P21/n space groups more closely fits the e.d. data. In particular, 210, 120, 320 and 410 reflections are present with moderate intensity, which are forbidden for the latter structures and do not result from double diffraction.
Fan broadband interaction noise modeling using a low-order method

Abstract A low-order method for simulating broadband interaction noise downstream of the fan stage in a turbofan engine is explored in this paper. The particular noise source of interest is due to the interaction of the fan rotor wake with the fan exit guide vanes (FEGVs). The vanes are modeled as flat plates and the method utilizes strip theory relying on unsteady aerodynamic cascade theory at each strip. This paper shows predictions for 6 of the 9 cases from NASA׳s Source Diagnostic Test (SDT) and all 4 cases from the 2014 Fan Broadband Workshop Fundamental Case 2 (FC2). The turbulence in the rotor wake is taken from hot-wire data for the low speed SDT cases and the FC2 cases. Additionally, four different computational simulations of the rotor wake flow for all of the SDT rotor speeds have been used to determine the rotor wake turbulence parameters. Comparisons between predictions based on the different inputs highlight the possibility of a potential effect present in the hot-wire data for the SDT as well as the importance of accurately describing the turbulence length scale when using this model. The method produces accurate predictions of the spectral shape for all of the cases. It also predicts reasonably well all of the trends that can be considered based on the included cases such as vane geometry, vane count, turbulence level, and rotor speed.
Diffusing-Light Spectroscopies Beyond the Diffusion Limit: The Role of Ballistic Transport and Anisotropic Scattering

Diffuse transmission and diffusing-wave spectroscopy (DWS) can be used to probe the structure and dynamics of opaque materials such as colloids, foams, and sand. A crucial step is to model photon transport as a diffusion process. This approach is acceptable for optically thick samples, far into the limit of strong multiple scattering; however, it becomes increasingly inaccurate for thinner samples for several reasons. Here, we correct for two of these defects. By modeling photon propagation by a telegrapher equation with suitable boundary conditions, we can account for the ballistic transport of photons at finite speed between successive scattering events. By introducing a discontinuity in the photon concentration at the source point, and then averaging over a range of penetration depths, we can account for the fact that photons usually scatter anisotropically into the forward direction, rather than being completely randomized at each event. The accuracy of our approach is tested by comparison both with random walk computer simulations and with experiments on specially designed suspensions of polystyrene spheres. We find that our predictions extend the utility of diffuse transmission to slabs of all thicknesses and of DWS to slabs down to about two transport mean free paths.
The route to an integrative associative memory is influenced by emotion.

Though the hippocampus typically has been implicated in processes related to associative binding, special types of associations – such as those created by integrative mental imagery – may be supported by processes implemented in other medial temporal-lobe or sensory processing regions. Here, we investigated what neural mechanisms underlie the formation and subsequent retrieval of integrated mental images, and whether those mechanisms differ based on the emotionality of the integration (i.e., whether it contains an emotional item or not). Participants viewed pairs of words while undergoing a functional MRI scan. They were instructed to imagine the two items separately from one another (“non-integrative” study) or as a single, integrated mental image (“integrative” study). They provided ratings of how successful they were at generating vivid images that fit the instructions. They were then given a surprise associative recognition test, also while undergoing an fMRI scan. The cuneus showed parametric correspondence to increasing imagery success selectively during encoding and retrieval of emotional integrations, while the parahippocampal gyri and prefrontal cortices showed parametric correspondence during the encoding and retrieval of non-emotional integrations. Connectivity analysis revealed that selectively during negative integration, left amygdala activity was negatively correlated with frontal and hippocampal activity. These data indicate that individuals utilize two different neural routes for forming and retrieving integrations depending on their emotional content, and they suggest a potentially disruptive role for the amygdala on frontal and medial-temporal regions during negative integration.
Selection criteria for models with non-uniqueness

Abstract Three objections are considered to the use of McCallum's rules for picking the minimal state set solution in rational expectations models with multiple equilibria. It is shown that these difficulties can be resolved using the concept of expectational stability as a selection criterion.
Effects of opioid antagonists and their quaternary analogs on temperature changes in morphine-dependent rats.

Abstract Subcutaneous administration of three opioid antagonists; naloxone, naltrexone and nalmefene, produced a significant rise in tail skin temperature and a subsequent fall in rectal temperature in morphine dependent rats. However, subcutaneous administration of equimolar concentrations of the quaternary derivatives of these opioid antagonists (naloxone methobromide, naltrexone methobromide and n-methylnalmefenium iodide) failed to produce any significant alterations in either tail skin or rectal temperatures in the morphine dependent rat. At doses of naloxone methobromide 6 to 9 times greater than naloxone, there was a slight reduction of rectal temperatures with no significant elevation of skin temperature However, the fall in reactal temperature was still significantly less than that achieved with administration of naloxone. When each of these six agents were administered centrally (20 ug/5 ul, icv) in the morphine dependent rat, similar increases in tail skin temperature and decreases in rectal temperature were observed. These temperature changes were similar to those observed following systematic administration of the opioid antagonist. Previously, we have suggested that acute withdrawal in the morphine-dependent rat may serve as an animal model for the mechanism of the menopausal hot flush. Collectively, these results suggest that the temperature changes associated with morphine-withdrawal in our rat model for studying the mechanisms of the menopausal hot flush are centrally mediated.
Divine Injustice?: Matthew's Narrative Strategy and the Slaughter of the Innocents (Matthew 2.13-23)

The remarkable parallel between Mt. 2.13-15 and 2.19-23 focuses attention, oddly, on the story of the Slaughter of the Innocents and its formula-quotation from Jer. 31.15, Rachel's cry of despair. ...
Quantitative model of Ras-phosphoinositide 3-kinase signalling cross-talk based on co-operative molecular assembly.

In growth-factor-stimulated signal transduction, cell-surface receptors recruit PI3Ks (phosphoinositide 3-kinases) and Ras-specific GEFs (guanine nucleotide-exchange factors) to the plasma membrane, where they produce 3′-phosphorylated phosphoinositide lipids and Ras-GTP respectively. As a direct example of pathway networking, Ras-GTP also recruits and activates PI3Ks. To refine the mechanism of Ras–PI3K cross-talk and analyse its quantitative implications, we offer a theoretical model describing the assembly of complexes involving receptors, PI3K and Ras-GTP. While the model poses the possibility that a ternary receptor–PI3K–Ras complex forms in two steps, it also encompasses the possibility that receptor–PI3K and Ras–PI3K interactions are competitive. In support of this analysis, experiments with platelet-derived growth factor-stimulated fibroblasts revealed that Ras apparently enhances the affinity of PI3K for receptors; in the context of the model, this suggests that a ternary complex does indeed form, with the second step greatly enhanced through membrane localization and possibly allosteric effects. The apparent contribution of Ras to PI3K activation depends strongly on the quantities and binding affinities of the interacting molecules, which vary across different cell types and stimuli, and thus the model could be used to predict conditions under which PI3K signalling is sensitive to interventions targeting Ras.
A Secondary Analysis of Perceptions of Quality of Life of Older Adults Residing in a Nursing Home and Assisted Living Setting Using an Integrated Conceptual Model of Measurement

Quality of life is difficult to measure but is fast becoming the standard for long-term care. A secondary analysis was conducted of quality-of-life perceptions of older adults residing in a nursing home and then an assisted living facility from the perspectives of older adults and their family members/friends. This study shows that using a comprehensive integrated model that incorporates six major life domains of physical well-being, social well-being, psychological well-being, cognitive well-being, spiritual well-being, and environmental well-being into the assessment process appears to be a promising approach to determining quality-of-life perceptions of older adults. Findings also suggest that healthcare and human services professionals should place more reliance on indicators of social and environmental well-being, including opportunities for choice, when striving to maximize quality of life of older adults. As the demographic composition of the United States changes, policies and services will need to be modified to accommodate the changing needs of older adults in a way that optimizes perspectives of quality of life.
Analysis of biomass sugars using a novel HPLC method

The precise quantitative analysis of biomass sugars is a very important step in the conversion of biomass feedstocks to fuels and chemicals. However, the most accurate method of biomass sugar analysis is based on the gas chromatography analysis of derivatized sugars either as alditol acetates or trimethylsilanes. The derivatization method is time consuming but the alternative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method cannot resolve most sugars found in biomass hydrolysates. We have demonstrated for the first time that by careful manipulation of the HPLC mobile phase, biomass monomeric sugars (arabinose, xylose, fructose, glucose, mannose, and galactose) can be analyzed quantitatively and there is excellent baseline resolution of all the sugars. This method was demonstrated for standard sugars, pretreated corn stover liquid and solid fractions. Our method can also be used to analyze dimeric sugars (cellobiose and sucrose).
Aortic valve replacement or heart transplantation in patients with aortic stenosis and severe left ventricular dysfunction.

Introduction. The decision to perform aortic valve replacement (AVR) or heart transplantation (HTx) for aortic stenosis (AS) with severe left ventricular dysfunction is difficult and may be affected by prior myocardial infarction (MI) and coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods. Patients who underwent AVR from 1988 to 2001 with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 30% and severe AS (aortic valve area [AVA] 1.0 cm 2 ; n 51) were assessed for operative mortality, late survival, and predictors of outcome, and were compared with HTx. Subsequently, 131 patients with LVEF 35% who underwent AVR for critical AS (AVA 0.8 cm 2 ) were evaluated. Results. In the first 51 patients, 3-year survival was 100% 0% with no CAD, and 45% 10% with CAD (P .05); 3-year survival was 88% 12% with no bypass, 73% 12% with one to two grafts, and 18% 11% with three grafts (P .01). Survival with HTx was 78% at 3 years. In the subsequent analysis of 131 patients, 90-day survivors were followed for a mean 4.6 3.5 years. Advanced age (P .001) was the only predictor of long-term mortality. LVEF improved from 28.5% 5.2% before AVR to 45.4% 13.2% at 1-month postoperatively (P .0001). New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III/IV decreased from 94.2% pre-AVR to 12.8% at 1 year (P .0001). Predictors of LVEF recovery were no previous MI (P .007) and higher AS gradient (P .03). Conclusions. In severe AS and LVEF 30% with no concomitant CAD or with CAD requiring one to two bypass grafts, AVR has a survival equal to or exceeding that of HTx. In patients with CAD requiring more than two bypass grafts, survival is significantly reduced, and HTx can be considered.
P-N Approximation for Radiative Heat Transfer in a Nongray Medium

Using the rectangular model to characterize the spectral dependence of the absorption coefficient, the P-N approximation is extended to treat nongray radiative transfer problems in planar media. Specifically, the P-l and P-3 approximation formulations are developed for a medium with any number of bands. Analytical solutions are derived for the special case of a single-level absorption coefficient. Numerical solutions are obtained for a medium with a two-level absorption coefficient. Comparisons with the available exact solutions for radiative equilibrium show that the P-l and P-3 approximations generate accurate results. Solutions for internal heat generation are also discussed.
GeneralizedF-tests for unbalanced nested designs under heteroscedasticity

Two-factor fixed-effect unbalanced nested design model without the assumption of equal error variance is considered. Using the generalized definition ofp-values, exact tests under heteroscedasticity are derived for testing “main effects” of both factors. These generalizedF-tests can be utilized in significance testing or in fixed level testing under the Neyman-Pearson theory. Two examples are given to illustrate the proposed test and to demonstrate its advantages over the classicalF-test. Extensions of the procedure for three-factor nested designs are briefly discussed.
P17-09. Immunization with a single HIV-1 envelope sequence can generate CD8+ T lymphocytes capable of recognizing multiple variant forms of envelope

Background The ability of CD8+ T lymphocytes to recognize a diversity of mutant forms of an HIV epitope is of central importance in the immune containment of this virus. The present studies were pursued to determine the mechanism employed by CD8+ T lymphocytes to recognize mutant viruses. In particular, we sought to determine whether mutant sequences are recognized by distinct CD8+ T lymphocyte populations or whether individual clonal populations of CD8+ T lymphocytes recognize a diversity of mutant sequences.
On the Frobenius Power and Colon Ideals

In this article we study the commutativity of the Frobenius power and the colon operation of two ideals for Noetherian rings of positive characteristic p. New characterizations of regular rings and local UFDs are given.
Paramagnetic nitrogen defects in silicon nitride

Photocreation mechanisms and properties of nitrogen dangling bonds in amorphous hydrogenated silicon nitride (a-SiN{sub x}:H) thin films are investigated. We find that the creation kinetics are strongly dependent on the post-deposition anneal; this thermal process can be described by a simple exponential function which yields an activation energy of 0.8 eV. The compositional dependence of the nitrogen dangling bond center suggests that its energy level lies close to the valence band edge, in agreement with theoretical calculations. This energy level position can explain why a-SiN{sub x}:H films often become conducting following a high post-deposition anneal.
An uncertainty/sensitivity study for the station blackout sequence at a Mark I boiling water reactor

Abstract An uncertainty/sensitivity study is presented for the source term associated with the station blackout (TB) accident sequence at a boiling water reactor with a Mark I containment. The source term model used in this study was developed as part of a probabilistic risk assessment for the Peach Bottom nuclear power station. Techniques based on Latin hypercube sampling and regression analysis are used to (1) gain insights with respect to uncertainties in reactor accident source term estimates, (2) determine computationally favorable gridding schemes for use with the source term model, and (3) verify that the model is operating as intended.
Probabilistic Weather Forecasting Analysis for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Path Planning

U NMANNED aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been widely used in various services and are predicted to be extensively used in the near future [1–8]. In UAV applications, weather supporting plays a critical role at all echelons from control, navigation, and path planning to asset safety. Adverse weather conditions such as thunderstorms, icing, turbulence, and wind are great influences on UAVsafety andmission success. For instance, the Predator, deployed in the Balkans in the late 1990s, experienced lowmission-completion rates, with the primary factor being weather [9]. It is therefore imperative to incorporate weather forecasting into path planning. Past efforts have led to some weather support tools such as the Aviation Weather Routing Tool, the Integrated Weather Effects Decision Aid, and others [10]. The shortfalls of these tools are that they rely on deterministic forecasts [11] and ignore forecasting uncertainties. The recent development in numerical weather prediction [12–15] makes possible the high-resolution ensemble forecasting [16,17]. In ensemble forecasting, different weather models are performed many times in a stochastic mode with model inputs, initial conditions, and boundary conditions being slightly changed for each run. Each single run contains a different number of ensemble members and generates a prediction spectrum. This allows us to build an objective and stochastic weather forecast that supports statistical postprocessing [10,11,16,17]. Based on this information, a probabilistic weather map can be constructed. With continuous ensemble forecasting updating at a rate of once per time unit, this analysis provides an online four-dimensional (4-D) (with time as one dimension) weather map. From the 4-D weather map and a UAV mission, the planning algorithm is implemented to calculate waypoints describing the UAV route. In this research, a deterministic three-dimensional (3-D) field D* planning algorithm [18] is used to find the optimal flying route. The optimality of the route is evaluated on the metrics of execution time, mission risk, route distance, and fuel consumption. The structure of the overall system is shown in Fig. 1, which consists of weather-forecasting data, probabilistic analysis, forecasting update, map construction, and optimal mission planning.
The current structural and functional understanding of APOBEC deaminases

The apolipoprotein B mRNA-editing enzyme catalytic polypeptide (APOBEC) family of cytidine deaminases has emerged as an intensively studied field as a result of their important biological functions. These enzymes are involved in lipid metabolism, antibody diversification, and the inhibition of retrotransposons, retroviruses, and some DNA viruses. The APOBEC proteins function in these roles by deaminating single-stranded (ss) DNA or RNA. There are two high-resolution crystal structures available for the APOBEC family, Apo2 and the C-terminal catalytic domain (CD2) of Apo3G or Apo3G-CD2 [Holden et al. (Nature 456:121-124, 2008); Prochnow et al. (Nature 445:447-451, 2007)]. Additionally, the structure of Apo3G-CD2 has also been determined using NMR [Chen et al. (Nature 452:116-119, 2008); Furukawa et al. (EMBO J 28:440-451, 2009); Harjes et al. (J Mol Biol, 2009)]. A detailed structural analysis of the APOBEC proteins and a comparison to other zinc-coordinating deaminases can facilitate our understanding of how APOBEC proteins bind nucleic acids, recognize substrates, and form oligomers. Here, we review the recent development of structural and functional studies that apply to Apo3G as well as the APOBEC deaminase family.
Some properties of k-trees

Let k>=2 be an integer. We investigate Hamiltonian properties of k-trees, a special family of chordal graphs. Instead of studying the toughness condition motivated by a conjecture of Chvatal, we introduce a new parameter, the branch number of G. The branch number is denoted by @b(G), which is a measure of how complex the k-tree is. For example, a path has only two leaves and is said to be simple when compared to a tree with many leaves and long paths. We generalize this concept to k-trees and show that the branch number increases for more complex k-trees. We will see by the definition that the branch number is easier to calculate and to work with than the toughness of a graph. We give some results on the relationships between @b(G) and other graph parameters. We then use our structural results to show that if @b(G)
Design, fabrication, and modeling of the split actuator microrobotic bee

The split actuator microrobotic bee is the first flight-capable, insect-scale flapping-wing micro air vehicle that uses “split-cycle” constant-period frequency modulation to control body forces and torques. Building this vehicle is an intricate challenge, but by leveraging a maturing fabrication technology for microscale devices, we have developed a solution to tackle the design and fabrication difficulties. We show that the design is able to independently modulate the motions of both wings and produce roll, pitch, and yaw torques, as well as a peak lift force of 1.3 mN, in a 70mg package.
Subjectively weighted linear utility

An axiomatized theory of nonlinear utility and subjective probability is presented in which assessed probabilities are allowed to depend on the consequences associated with events. The representation includes the expected utility model as a special case, but can accommodate the Ellsberg paradox and other types of ambiguity sensitive behavior, while retaining familiar properties of subjective probability, such as additivity for disjoint events and multiplication of conditional probabilities. It is an extension, to the states model of decision making under uncertainty, of Chew's weighted linear utility representation for decision making under risk.
Optimization of System Reliability via Redundancy and/or Design Considerations

The two traditional methods used in improving the reliability of a multi-stage system are examined. The first method is the creation of redundancy in system components, whereas the second method consists of overdesigning the system components. An Integrated Reliability Optimization Model that includes both of these two methods for improving the reliability of a system is presented. It is shown that under certain assumptions the integrated model reduces to a Redundancy Optimization Model and under certain other assumptions reduces to a Design Optimization Model. Several methods that have been previously suggested for obtaining solutions to the Integrated Optimization Model are reviewed and a generalized solution procedure for such a model is presented. This solution procedure involves the successive solution of two subproblems a number of times. The first subproblem is a design optimization problem that is solved by the Davidon-Fletcher-Powell optimization algorithm. The second subproblem is a reliability redundancy optimization problem that is solved with the heuristic approach of Aggarwal, et al.
The Effects Of Hvdc Submarine Cables On Shipping With Magnetic Autopilots

Additional sources of magnetic field will combine with the Earth's field and locally deflect a magnetic compass from the true magnetic, or compass, north. As a result, ships using automatic pilots based on the magnetic compass, may be deflected from their planned route. This paper considers monopolar HVDC submarine power cables as sources of magnetic field, and the effects they may have on ships' compasses, in particular, on the paths of ships near the cable which are navigating by autopilot using the magnetic compass for its reference.
Synthesis, Optical Properties, and Electronic Structures of Nucleobase-Containing π-Conjugated Oligomers

The molecular recognition properties of the nucleobases instruct the formation of complex three-dimensional architectures in natural and synthetic systems; relatively unexplored is their use as building blocks for π-conjugated materials where they might mutually tune electronic and supramolecular structures. Toward this goal, an introductory set (1a–d and 2a–d) of six purine-terminated and two pyrimidine-terminated π-conjugated oligomers has been synthesized and used to develop experimental electronic and photophysical structure–property trends. Unlike 2,2′:5′,2″-terthiophene (TTT) derivatives 2a–d, intramolecular charge transfer dominates oligomers 1a–d bearing a 4,7-bisthienylbenzothiadiazole (TBT) spacer due to the strong electron-accepting ability of its benzothiadiazole (BTD) ring. The resulting donor–acceptor–donor systems feature lower HOMO–LUMO gaps than the terthiophene-linked nucleobases (ΔEg ∼ 1.8 eV vs 2.4 eV based on electrochemical measurements), and the lowest so far for π-conjugated molecu...
Utility of tissue expansion in pediatric phallic reconstruction: a 10-year experience.

Abstract Objective Boys with complex penile anomalies often undergo multiple operations, leaving a paucity of unscarred skin for further reconstructive procedures. Our objective was to evaluate the ability of tissue expansion to provide local skin for successful phallic reconstruction. Materials and methods Eighty boys (mean age of 11.9 years) with hypospadias ( n = 42) or epispadias ( n = 38) formed the study cohort. All patients had undergone at least one failed reconstructive operation. Indications for tissue expansion included scarcity of penile skin with urethral stenosis, urethrocutaneous fistula, chordee, and/or residual defect. One or two expanders were placed under the skin of the penile shaft and removed at the time of reconstruction. Results Average time between expander placement and reconstruction was 10.9 weeks. Mean follow-up time was 25.3 months. Complications during expansion occurred in 33 patients (41.3%). Twenty-two patients (27.5%) had at least one expander removed prematurely and 46.9% were replaced. Expansion yielded adequate tissue for reconstruction in 76 patients (95.0%). Successful outcomes were achieved in 39 patients after initial reconstruction and 25 patients after further intervention, yielding an overall success rate of 80.0%. Conclusion Tissue expansion is a useful tool with an acceptable rate of complications for phallic reconstruction in patients who have failed prior surgical reconstruction.
Production of β-glucosidase (cellobiase) byPisolithus tinctorius

Pisolithus tinctorius growth on cellobiose was close to that observed on glucose. Cellobiase was detected but none of the other enzymes associated with the cellulase enzyme system were found. The majority of enzyme activity was mycelial associated and released only after mechanical disruption and action of cell wall degrading enzymes. Maximum activity was at 65°C and pH 4.5 with stability greater than 95% at 5°C for 96 h.
Minimum gamma-radiation exposure and oxygen concentration to produce post-irradiation oxygen-enhancement of damage in Barley seeds

Abstract Himalaya (C.I. 620) barley seeds were adjusted to water contents ranging from 2 to 10% by storage in vacuum desiccators over calcium oxide or mixtures of glycerin and water. The seeds were irradiated with 60Co gamma rays in vacuo. After irradiation, the seeds were soaked at ±0.5°C in water bubbled with oxygen, nitrogen or mixtures of oxygen and nitrogen. Biological effects of the treatment were recorded as M1 seedling height and percentage of shoot tip cells showing chromosomal aberrations. Oxygen concentrations in the gas phase of the soaking medium (OCHG) of less than 1.60% oxygen caused a slight increase in the seedling heights (compared to controls with 0.05% OCHG) when seeds were given 50 krad. With 12.5% OCHG, oxygen enhanced seedling injury with 20 and 30 krad in all cases and with 15 and 20 krad on seeds of 6% water content and with 10 krad and above on seeds of 2 and 4% water content. At 6.25% OCHG, oxygen enhanced seedling injury with 30 krad on seeds of 6, 8 and 10% water content, at 20 krad on seeds of 2–10% water content. Oxygen enhanced the production of chromosome aberrations, with a 6.25% OCHG for seeds of 2.2 and 3.8% water content, when exposed to 5 and 10 krad. Chromosomal damage was a more sensitive test than seedling injury. Oxygen enhancement was obtained for all radiation exposures above 200 krad on seeds of 2 and 4% water content. The magnitude of oxygen enhancement increased with radiation exposure. Regression analysis of seedling height data showed a radiation-induced oxygen enhancement above 830 rad for seeds containing 2% water. Oxygen enhancement was significant at all radiation exposures above 2125 rad.
Evaluating the impact of office automation on top management communication

This paper is concerned with the impact of new communication technologies on the effectiveness of top management decisionmakers. Word processing technology is only the beginning of a revolution in office automation and managerial communication which will include teleconferencing, electronic mail, and wide availability of personal computer-based systems. The potential problems and benefits must be considered in the context of the overall communication system and management needs of an organization. A research methodology is described which leads to the development of organizational models within which: (1) management communication problems can be anticipated, (2) solutions can be proposed and compared, (3) specific office automation systems can be designed, and (4) the impact of alternative systems on organizational effectiveness can be predicted and evaluated.
Stimulation of Female Sex Behavior in Adrenalectomized Rats with Estrogen Alone

Apparently normal sex behavior was produced in spayed rats by daily injections of 0.8 or 3.2μg estradiol benzoate. Adrenalectomy had no deleterious effect on this behavior. Uterine weight data suggested that the lower dose produced circulating estrogen levels within or below those occurring in physiological conditions. Since,in the combined ovariectomized-adrenalectomized females, all known sources of steroid hormones were removed, it is concluded that the expression of sexual receptivity in female rats does not require the presence of progesterone or adrenal androgens. (Endocrinology 82: 193, 1968)
Preparation of uniform glass fiber Hi-Vol filter sections using a stainless steel and aluminum cutting jig

Abstract A stainless steel and aluminum cutting jig was fabricated for sectioning glass fiber Hi-Vol filters. The jig was designed to produce 70 equivalent sections from the particulate loaded portion of the filter. Trials indicated uniform pieces could be replicated with no more than 1.28 % relative standard deviation (RSD) by mass. Advantages seen over other sectioning methods, such as circular punchout jigs and templates, were its abilities to sample greater than 97% of the active sampling area and ease of use in section preparation. Whole filters were consistently divided in less than 5 min with virtual elimination of operator error in section reproduction.
Breakdown of the outer blood-retinal barrier in experimental Commotio retinae

An animal model has been developed in this study to produce commotio retinae (Berlin's edema) by means of standardized, non-penetrating B.B. pistol injury to the cornea. Parameters have been established to ensure uniform blunt injury, enabling study of the retina and blood-retinal barrier by light- and electron microscopy, including use of horseradish peroxidase as a vascular tracer. Retinal whitening and swelling were found in the peripapillary and central regions, as occurs in the human. The earliest damage involved breakage of the connecting cilia of rods and cones, with rapid disorganization of the outer segments. Later changes included swelling of photoreceptor inner segments and breakdown of the outer blood-retinal barrier at the level of the retinal pigment epithelium. The outer blood-retinal barrier was re-established between 7 and 14 days, and at the longest survival (56 days), incompletely regenerated outer segments were present. This model for commotio retinae provides a new approach for the study of outer-segment regeneration in rods and cones after mechanical injury, as well as mechanisms that underlie re-establishment of the blood-retinal barrier following non-penetrating trauma to the eye.
Dissociation pressures and thermodynamic properties in the system calcium hydride-lanthanum hydride

Abstract The hydrogen dissociation pressures have been measured as functions of composition and temperature for the system calcium-lanthanum-hydrogen at pressures from 50 to 760 Torr, and metal compositions XLa 0.500, 0.584, 0.733, and 0.873, X La = atoms La (atoms La + atoms Ca ) . The equilibrium pressures vary smoothly with metal composition in such a way as to indicate that the system is one of continuous solid solutions in this region. The room temperature X-ray diffraction patterns of the samples showed only the f.c.c. phase for XLa = 0.584 and greater. Three preparations of XLa = 0.500 gave different sets of pressure isotherms, and also contained small amounts of CaH2 phase. The enthalpies and entropies of solution H H − 1 2 H 0 H 2 and S H − 1 2 S 0 H 2 are of the same order of magnitude as for the LaH2LaH3 system. Interaction energies between octahedral hydrogen and octahedral interstices, as evaluated by regular solution theory, changed smoothly from negative values toward positive values both with increasing temperature and with increasing calcium content.