cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An adaptive search range algorithm for multiview motion and disparity estimation

An adaptive search range algorithm is proposed for multiview motion and disparity estimation. By analyzing the motion and disparity vector distribution in neighboring views and anchor frames respectively, an adequate motion and disparity search range can be chosen. As the search range can be effectively reduced, the saving of computation time of motion and disparity estimation can be up to 73% with negligible PSNR degradation. Furthermore, this algorithm has been implemented in a hardwired motion/disparity estimation module for a H.264 MVC encoder and achieves the requirement of real-time coding for HD1080p 30fps stereoscopic video operating at the frequency of 300 MHz.
Technique of Insertion of Transvenous Atrial Pacing Leads—The Value of Lateral Fluoroscopy

The value of positioning the atrial lead while viewing the patient in the lateral position is pointed out. Satisfactory lead position is rapidly achieved with this technique. (PACE, Vol. 4, September-October, 1981)
Recovery of Solubilized Rhodium from Hydroformylated Vegetable Oils and Their Methyl Esters

Procedures were developed to extract rhodium from hydroformylated vegetables oils and methyl esters. Among the numerous reagents surveyed, aqueous hydrogen cyanide with triethanolamine (TEA) was found to be most effective. The effects of time, temperature, and concentration of reagents were studied. Over 98% of the solubilized rhodium was removed from crude methyl formylstearate at 100 C for 1 hr with 0.5% hydrogen cyanide, 5% water, and 0.5% TEA. Over 98% of the solubilized rhodium was also extracted from hydroformylated soybean and safflower methyl esters; however, 1% hydrogen cyanide, 10% water, and 0.62% TEA had to be used. Only 90% of the rhodium was removed from hydroformylated soybean oil. The reagents used can be adpated to a continuous extraction procedure.
Stem cell maintenance in shoot apical meristems

Stem cell homeostasis in shoot apical meristems of higher plants is regulated through a dynamic balance between spatial regulation of gene expression, cell growth patterns and patterns of differentiation. Cell-cell communication mediated by both the local factors and long-range signals have been implicated in stem cell homeostasis. Here we have reviewed recent developments on spatio-temporal regulation of cell-cell communication processes with an emphasis on how ubiquitously utilized signals such as plant hormones function with local factors in mediating stem cell homeostasis. We also provide a brief overview of how the activity of ubiquitously utilized epigenetic regulators are modulated locally to orchestrate gene expression.
Sequence and analysis of the capsid protein of Nudaurelia capensis ω virus, an insect virus with T = 4 icosahedral symmetry

We have determined the nucleotide sequence of the RNA2 segment of the Nudaurelia capensis omega virus genome. It was found to consist of 2448 nucleotides and contained one long open reading frame (ORF) encoding the 644 residue capsid protein. The deduced amino acid sequence of this protein reveals a positively charged amino terminus, a characteristic exhibited by several other viral capsid proteins, that is thought to be important for interactions between the capsid and the genomic RNA. There are 366 and 150 bases of untranslated sequence on the 5' and 3' ends, respectively. The ORF encoding the capsid protein initiates at the second AUG from the 5' end. The 5' proximal AUG specifies a short ORF (30 codons) which terminates 1 base before the initiation codon for the coat protein. Our analysis also revealed the presence of a second, previously unidentified polypeptide associated with Nudaurelia capensis omega virus particles. The amino terminal sequence of this protein corresponds to a portion of the long ORF beginning at codon 571. The lack of an initiation codon near this sequence indicates that the small polypeptide is most likely produced as a carboxy terminal cleavage product from a 70-kDa capsid protein precursor, yielding the previously identified 62-kDa protein and the 8-kDa protein that we have observed. The putative cleavage site would be at an Asn/Phe pair, somewhat resembling known cleavage sites (Asn/Ala) in the T = 3 Nodaviridae. In addition, we have found that there is also a second polypeptide similar in size to that from Nudaurelia capensis omega virus associated with particles of Nudaurelia capensis beta virus, the type member of Tetraviridae.
Transcatheter occlusion of atrial septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus: Now a reality in India

Recent developments have resulted in availability of a safe and effective method for transcatheter occlusion of atrial septal defects and patent ductus arteriosus. Furthermore, this technique has now been brought to India. The secundum atrial septal defects can be closed effectively with buttoned devices that can be delivered via 8-French sheaths. Patent ductus arteriosus can also be closed with adjustable buttoned devices delivered via 7-French sheaths. Patient selection, meticulous attention to the details of the technique, and careful follow-up remain germane to the continued success of this technique in occluding cardiac septal defects.
Literacy in the Pacific Islands.

Alphabetic literacy and Christianity were introduced to the Pacific Islands by Protestant missionaries in the early 19th century, and promulgated through mission schools and churches. Later colonial governments introduced literacy as the basis for secular authority, with written laws, treaties, land deeds, and other official documents. The post-colonial governments (1962-present) are demanding universal literacy in European languages through the introduced social institutions of education, government, law, and economics. This shift from oral to literate societies is contributing significantly to the erosion of traditional languages and cultures.
Differential lysis of plasma membranes and granules of human neutrophilis by digitonin

Abstract The effect of the detergent digitonin on lysis of granule and plasma membranes of human neutrophils was studied. Either linear or sigmoid dose-response for release of the cytoplasmic marker lactate dehydrogenase and the granule markers lysozyme, β-glucuronidase. lactoferrin. and myeloperoxidase was noted using digitonin concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 0.1 mM. However, release of the eytosol compartment was far more sensitive to the detergent than the granule compartment, with more release of lactate dehydrogenase than of lysozyme at 0·01–0·08 mM digitonin. Distinction between the two compartments was optimal at 0.025 mM digitonin. By examining in parallel the digitonin-induced release of exogenous fluorescent or luminescent indicators, a granule location was demonstrated for the pH indicator 9-aminoacridine. while the calcium probes aequorin and Ouin 2 were released coincident with release of the cytosolic enzyme lactate dehydrogenase. These findings were employed to validate use of the indicators for monitoring of ion translocation in the intact cell. The differential effect of this detergent on subcellular membranes provides a broadly applicable technique for rapid assessment of the subcellular localization of tracer substances. Rapid monitoring may help to avoid problems of redistribution during cell fractionation.
Erratum: A diminutive temnospondyl amphibian from the Pennsylvanian of Illinois

Ref : Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences, 40 (4): 507–514. Part of a line of text is missing in the printed text of the Acknowledgments. The second paragraph of the Acknowledgments should read I would also like to express my sincerest thanks …
A New Type of Drill Grinder Based on the Special Universal Joint

This paper presents a new type of drill grinder based on a special universal joint. The special universal joint is composed of a parallel mechanism with three legs as the inputs. One can rotate as a spindle; other two legs can drive a moving platform and make a drill point get an accurate position in workspace. Due to the simple mechanical structure comparing the grinder with the existing conventional CNC cutting tool grinders, it should be easy for the grinder to manufacture at a low cost. In addition, inverse kinematic equations of the special type of universal joint are derived.
Correlations in Grafted Polymer Layers

Compositional fluctuations are discussed in densely end-grafted polymers when two species of chains are present. When the two species are identical except for labeling, the two-point spatial correlation function of local composition is related to density-density correlations within a single chain and is calculated under melt and solvent-swollen conditions. Structure factors that could be observed in scattering from a layer composed of two chain species that differ only in their coupling to the scatters are deduced.
The Effects of Daycare Intervention in the Preschool Years on the Narrative Skills of Poverty Children in Kindergarten

The following study examined narrative skills in 89 poverty children, half of whom had received an infant daycare intervention (experimental) and half whom had not (control). At school entry these ...
The Emergence Of Retail-Based Clinics In The United States: Early Observations

Retail-based clinics have proliferated rapidly in the past two years, with approximately 1,000 sites in thirty-seven states representing almost three million cumulative visits. Clinic operators have evolved from a dispersed group of privately financed concerns to a concentrated, largely corporate-owned group. A major development has been the move to large-scale acceptance of insurance, deviating from the initial cash-pay model. Consumers’ acceptance and the fact that the clinics appear to increase access for both the uninsured and the insured has encouraged providers and policymakers to consider this approach to basic, acute care while seeking a better understanding of these clinics.
Long-term outcomes following positive fecal occult blood test results in older adults: benefits and burdens.

Background In the United States, older adults have low rates of follow-up colonoscopy after a positive fecal occult blood test (FOBT) result. The long-term outcomes of these real world practices and their associated benefits and burdens are unknown. Methods Longitudinal cohort study of 212 patients 70 years or older with a positive FOBT result at 4 Veteran Affairs (VA) facilities in 2001 and followed up through 2008. We determined the frequency of downstream outcomes during the 7 years of follow-up, including procedures, colonoscopic findings, outcomes of treatment, complications, and mortality based on chart review and national VA and Medicare data. Net burden or benefit from screening and follow-up was determined according to each patient's life expectancy. Life expectancy was classified into 3 categories: best (age, 70-79 years and Charlson-Deyo comorbidity index [CCI], 0), average, and worst (age, 70-84 years and CCI, ≥4 or age, ≥85 years and CCI, ≥1). Results Fifty-six percent of patients received follow-up colonoscopy (118 of 212), which found 34 significant adenomas and 6 cancers. Ten percent experienced complications from colonoscopy or cancer treatment (12 of 118). Forty-six percent of those without follow-up colonoscopy died of other causes within 5 years of FOBT (43 of 94), while 3 died of colorectal cancer within 5 years. Eighty-seven percent of patients with worst life expectancy experienced a net burden from screening (26 of 30) as did 70% with average life expectancy (92 of 131) and 65% with best life expectancy (35 of 51) (P = .048 for trend). Conclusions Over a 7-year period, older adults with best life expectancy were less likely to experience a net burden from current screening and follow-up practices than are those with worst life expectancy. The net burden could be decreased by better targeting FOBT screening and follow-up to healthy older adults.
The Role of the Central Noradrenergic System in Behavioral Inhibition

Although the central noradrenergic system has been shown to be involved in a number of behavioral and neurophysiological processes, the relation of these to its role in depressive illness has been difficult to define. The present review discusses the hypothesis that one of its chief functions that may be related to affective illness is the inhibition of behavioral activation, a prominent symptom of the disorder. This hypothesis is found to be consistent with most previous neuropsychopharmacological and immunohistochemical experiments on active behavior in rodents in a variety of experimental conditions using manipulation of neurotransmission at both locus coeruleus and forebrain adrenergic receptors. The findings support a mechanism in which high rates of noradrenergic neural activity suppress the neural activity of principal neurons in forebrain regions mediating active behavior. The suppression may be mediated through postsynaptic galaninergic and adrenergic receptors, and via the release of corticotrophin-releasing hormone. The hypothesis is consistent with clinical evidence for central noradrenergic system hyperactivity in depressives and with the view that this hyperactivity is a contributing etiological factor in the disorder. A similar mechanism may underlie the ability of the noradrenergic system to suppress seizure activity suggesting that inhibition of the spread of neural activation may be a unifying function.
The Seat is right: Bidder heterogeneity in The Price Is Right

Abstract We study the game show The Price Is Right , where bidders compete with three opponents by submitting public bids for an item. The contestant with the bid that is closest to the actual retail price, without exceeding it, gains the item and earns the opportunity to play for more expensive prizes. Since the game is sequential, the fourth bidder has an informational advantage and a strategic advantage over her competitors. Using clustered logit regression analysis, we find further evidence in support of the bounded rationality hypothesis. We further find that bidder heterogeneity, as demonstrated by the seat choice of the first contestant announced at the beginning of the show, leads to greater winning by bidders in the fourth position.
Effects of antiepileptic drugs on brain energy reserves during convulsions.

— Cerebral cortical ATP, P-creatine, glucose, and lactate were measured 6 sec after 1 sec of 150/sec rectangular pulses, at 0,20 v, 40 v, 60 v, 80 v, or 100 v, applied to the heads of intact mice which had been given either no drug, phenobarbitone (25 mg/kg), trimethadione (600 mg/kg), or diphenylhydantoin (40 mg/kg), intraperitoneally. In general, regardless of stimulus strength or drug used, animals which exhibited maximal (tonic-clonic) convulsions showed similar striking decreases in brain P-creatine, decreases in ATP and glucose, and increases in lactate. On the other hand, in animals which exhibited less than maximal clinical response, there was little or no change in these metabolites. An exception was the case of diphenylhydantoin. Tonic-clonic seizures did not occur after diphenylhydantoin administration, even with 100 v stimuli, but substrate changes at this voltage were, nevertheless, similar to those observed in brains of other mice undergoing maximal convulsions.
The bathypelagic Decapoda, Lophogastrida, and Mysida of the eastern Gulf of Mexico

The Earth’s greatest living space is found in the bathypelagic zone of the oceans (depths >1,000 m), yet little research has been dedicated to these ecosystems. The micronekton of the bathypelagic zone in the eastern Gulf of Mexico (EGOM) was investigated with the goal of comparing its community structure with that of the well-studied mesopelagic micronekton. Herein is described a portion of that community, specifically species belonging to the orders Lophogastrida, Mysida, and Decapoda. A total of 46 species were collected, most of which have broad zoogeographic distributions. Seventeen of the species had not previously been collected above 1,000 m in the same location despite over 20 years of sampling. Compared to the mesopelagic zone, the bathypelagic community showed increased contributions to abundance and estimated biomass from the Oplophoridae and Eucopiidae, with a simultaneous decrease in the importance of the Dendrobranchiata. In addition, the bathypelagic zone was distinguished by a relatively high percentage of individuals that brood their eggs (77% vs. 15% in the mesopelagic zone). The results are interpreted as evidence that the bathypelagic zone contains a distinct pelagic community, with a biology and ecology fundamentally different from that of the mesopelagic zone.
The Operative Removal of the Yolks from Newly-Hatched Chicks

Abstract INTRODUCTION WHEN chicks or rats have been used as experimental animals in vitamin studies it has always been necessary to feed them a deficient diet over a period of time before the effects of the vitamin deficiency could be studied. In the case of young rats there is probably no satisfacory solution to this problem since it is necessary to carry them through the nursing period before they can be put on the experimental diet. In order to have normal rats at weaning time, the mothers’ diets must contain at least minimal amounts of the vitamins and since these amounts are not known definitely, the diets probably contain somewhat more than the minimum requirement which makes it possible for some storage to take place in the young rat during the suckling period. In the newly-hatched chick there is a similar problem, but in this species probably most of the vitamin . . .
Historical dictionary of Malaysia

More entries on significant persons, places and events are now included, amplified by annexes and tables. There is a thorough introduction that gives the reader general background, and a chronology to provide a visual map of events. Finally, the bibliography's extensive listings provide valuable sources of further information.
ExpR Coordinates the Expression of Symbiotically Important, Bundle-Forming Flp Pili with Quorum Sensing in Sinorhizobium meliloti

ABSTRACT Type IVb pili in enteropathogenic bacteria function as a host colonization factor by mediating tight adherence to host cells, but their role in bacterium-plant symbiosis is currently unknown. The genome of the symbiotic soil bacterium Sinorhizobium meliloti contains two clusters encoding proteins for type IVb pili of the Flp (fimbrial low-molecular-weight protein) subfamily. To establish the role of Flp pili in the symbiotic interaction of S. meliloti and its host, Medicago sativa, we deleted pilA1, which encodes the putative pilin subunit in the chromosomal flp-1 cluster and conducted competitive nodulation assays. The pilA1 deletion strain formed 27% fewer nodules than the wild type. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of bundle-forming pili protruding from the polar and lateral region of S. meliloti wild-type cells. The putative pilus assembly ATPase CpaE1 fused to mCherry showed a predominantly unilateral localization. Transcriptional reporter gene assays demonstrated that expression of pilA1 peaks in early stationary phase and is repressed by the quorum-sensing regulator ExpR, which also controls production of exopolysaccharides and motility. Binding of acyl homoserine lactone-activated ExpR to the pilA1 promoter was confirmed with electrophoretic mobility shift assays. A 17-bp consensus sequence for ExpR binding was identified within the 28-bp protected region by DNase I footprinting analyses. Our results show that Flp pili are important for efficient symbiosis of S. meliloti with its plant host. The temporal inverse regulation of exopolysaccharides and pili by ExpR enables S. meliloti to achieve a coordinated expression of cellular processes during early stages of host interaction.
Drilling the central crater of the Chesapeake Bay Impact Structure: A first look

The late Eocene Chesapeake Bay impact structure is a well-preserved example of one of Earth's largest impact craters, and its continental-shelf setting and relatively shallow burial make it an excellent target for study. Since the discovery of the structure over a decade ago [Edwards et al., 2004; Poag et al., 2004], test drilling by U.S. federal and state agencies has been limited to the structure's annular trough (Figure 1). In May 2004, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) drilled the first scientific test hole into the central crater of the Chesapeake Bay impact structure in Cape Charies,Virginia (Figure 1). This partially cored test hole, the deepest to date, penetrated postimpact sediments and impact breccias to a total depth of 823 m.
On-chip evaluation of neutrophil activation and neutrophil-endothelial cell interaction during neutrophil chemotaxis.

Neutrophils are always surrounded by/interacting with other components of the immune system; however, the current mechanistic understanding of neutrophil function is largely based on how neutrophil...
Fueling Injustice: Globalization, Ecologically Unequal Exchange and Climate Change

The globalization of economic production fundamentally reshapes how a ‘fair’ solution to the climate change problem must be forged. Emissions are increasing sharply in developing countries as wealthy nations ‘offshore’ the energy- and natural resource-intensive stages of production. We review a new and relatively under-utilized theory of ‘ecologically unequal exchange’ and apply it to the case of climate change. We describe four distinct principles that have been proposed to assign responsibility for carbon emissions, discuss their inadequacies, and briefly lay out some ‘hybrid’ proposals currently under consideration. We suggest combining hybrid proposals with environmental aid packages that help poorer nations transition from carbon-intensive pathways of development to more climate-friendly development trajectories, using remuneration from the so-called ‘ecological debt’. In the context of deadlock over a completely inadequate Kyoto Protocol, we argue that fairness principles, climate science, and an un...
Probing the human B-cell repertoire: Isolation of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-transformed human B lymphocytes making antibodies with a common idiotope that have different antigen-binding specificities

Human peripheral B lymphocytes were transformed with Epstein-Barr virus and probed with an antiidiotypic antibody made against a human monoclonal autoantibody. Six cell lines were isolated that produced antibodies bearing a common idiotope. Despite the presence of this common idiotope, the antibodies showed antigen-binding specificities different from that of the parental antibody to which the antiidiotypic antibody was made. By probing Epstein-Barr virus-transformed cells with well-characterized antiidiotypic antibodies, it should now be possible to isolate and determine the frequency of B cells bearing specific idiotopes in the human repertoire and to study the antigen-binding properties of these antibodies.
Analysis of generic crop growth model for use in decision support systems for farmers

Crop growth programs have been used in decision support systems for farmers for quite some time. However, the problem with these programs is that they are mostly crop specific, and are intended for use by educated personnel. In our paper, we explore the use of a generic crop growth model that can be integrated into a decision support system for farmers. We try and identify variables that have a significant impact on crop yield through sensitivity analysis. Such variables can then be implemented as a part of the decisions available to the users.
Relative Accuracy of Serum, Whole Blood, and Oral Fluid HIV Tests among Seattle Men Who Have Sex with Men

Abstract Background Point-of-care (POC) rapid HIV tests have sensitivity during the “window period” comparable only to earliest generation EIAs. To date, it is unclear whether any POC test performs significantly better than others. Objective Compare abilities of POC tests to detect early infection in real time. Study design Men who have sex with men (MSM) were recruited into a prospective, cross-sectional study at two HIV testing sites and a research clinic. Procedures compared four POC tests: one performed on oral fluids and three on fingerstick whole blood specimens. Specimens from participants with negative POC results were tested by EIA and pooled nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT). McNemar's exact tests compared numbers of HIV-infected participants detected. Results Between February 2010 and May 2013, 104 men tested HIV-positive during 2479 visits. Eighty-two participants had concordant reactive POC results, 3 participants had concordant non-reactive POC tests but reactive EIAs, and 8 participants had acute infection. Of 12 participants with discordant POC results, OraQuick ADVANCE Rapid HIV-1/2 Antibody Test performed on oral fluids identified fewer infections than OraQuick performed on fingerstick ( p = .005), Uni-Gold Recombigen HIV test ( p = .01), and determine HIV-1/2 Ag/Ab combo ( p = .005). Conclusions These data confirm that oral fluid POC testing detects fewer infections than other methods and is best reserved for circumstances precluding fingerstick or venipuncture. Regardless of specimen type, POC tests failed to identify many HIV-infected MSM in Seattle. In populations with high HIV incidence, the currently approved POC antibody tests are inadequate unless supplemented with p24 antigen tests or NAAT.
Comment on Higgs-boson photoproduction

Two additional mechanisms for photoproduction of the Higgs boson are considered, but both are found to result in inaccessibly small cross sections, as did previous calculations.
Ultrasound-induced transport across lipid bilayers: Influence of phase behavior

Abstract This paper examines the role of lipid membrane phase behavior on the kinetics and mechanism of ultrasound-induced transport. We present a quantitative study of low frequency ultrasound (LFUS)-induced release of calcein from the aqueous core of large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) comprising a wide range of lipid compositions. The LUVs comprise of the lipids 1,2-dioleoyl-phosphocholine (DOPC), 1,2-dipalmitoyl-phosphocholine (DPPC), and cholesterol, as these species constitute a proven model membrane system for which the phase behavior is well described. Samples from different regions in the composition space were exposed to 20 kHz, continuous wave ultrasound and steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy was used to quantify leakage. Results are presented in the form of a “release map”; that is, leakage results are superimposed onto a phase diagram. Additionally, release kinetics are fit with simple mathematical models that account for diffusion and bilayer destruction. As membrane phase changes toward liquid-ordered, the membrane becomes increasingly resistant to destruction such that the rate of diffusion decreases. Two mechanisms of release are evident in ld samples, diffusion and destruction. lO samples on the other hand, do not exhibit vesicle destruction and fit well to diffusion-only model. The phase of the membrane, rather than the cholesterol mole fraction per se, has a stronger influence on membrane permeability and destruction potential. Specifically the variation in permeability among different phases, but whose cholesterol mole fraction is identical, is roughly twice the variation in permeability observed as cholesterol mole fraction is varied within the a given phase. The difference in membrane thickness between ld and lO phases does not account for the observed difference in permeability; thus influence of phase behavior is not trivial. The correlation of permeability with phase behavior might prove useful in designing and developing therapies based on ultrasound and membrane interactions.
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION IN ANTHROPOLOGY: A NATIONAL SURVEY

This section is for brief reports of current research, comments on research as well as in-depth comments on the profession. Research reports should stress the significance of the work rather than details; commentary should extend beyond the immediacy of the Correspondence columns. As a membership service the section is open to all Association members. All manuscripts are subject to review by editorial consultants. Those accepted will appear in the earliest Anthropology Newsletter when spacing and layout permit. Manuscripts must be typed, double-spaced, on nonerasable bond and submitted in triplicate; otherwise, they will be returned to the author. Photos and drawings are welcome when appropriate; however, they must be camera ready.
Behavior-Analytic Instruction for Children with Autism: Philosophy Matters.

The Individuals With Disabilities Education Act grants children the right to a free, appropriate public education. Early, intensive behavioral intervention (often referred to as ABA) is demonstrably effective, yet many educators oppose such services, and parents of children With autism have had to pursue them through legal means. Whereas most of the legal decisions have revolved around procedural issues, much of the opposition to behavior-analytic instruction has to do With philosophical issues. Behavior analysis is a scientific discipline, and its appeal to educational decision-makers depends on Whether their fundamental philosophical assumptions support a scientific approach to education. Such assumptions influence the adoption of assessment, curriculum, and instructional technology that can significantly affect outcomes for children With autism. It therefore behooves parents and educators Who employ (or are considering) behavior analysis to recognize the philosophical dimension of the controversy and t...
Backstage With The Hot Flashes: Performing Gender, Performing Age, Performing Rock `N' Roll

This autoethnographic account of the author's experience performing rock `n' roll from the 1950s and 1960s as part of a quartet of middle-aged women reveals how performance can interrogate and contest notions of gender, age, and identity. By moving among the layers of experience—on stage, backstage, among the four singers, and between the singers and the audiences—as well as by reflecting on those experiences and interactions, the author takes the reader on her journey of understanding and transformation.
A Simple Approach to Pricing American options under the Heston Stochastic Volatility Model

In a recent paper, NBZ [2010] present a multidimensional transform for generating path-independent trees for pricing American options under low dimensional stochastic volatility models. For this class of models, this approach has higher accuracy than the GARCH tree method of Ritchken and Trevor [1999], and is computationally more efficient than the Monte Carlo regression method of Longstaff and Schwartz [2001] as well as the lattice method of Leisen [2000]. In this paper, we give an explicit demonstration of the NBZ transform using the specific example of the Heston [1993] stochastic volatility model. This approach obtains highly accurate American option prices within a fraction of a second using the control variate method.
Integration in Germany: Mainstreaming or Swimming Upstream?

Integration for persons with disabilities is progressing very slowly in the Federal Republic of Germany, in contrast with other European countries. This article provides an overview of European trends and reviews German disability services, emphasizing their historical and political context.
The Economic Impact of the Nigerian Civil War: a Reply

I am grateful to Dr F. S. O'Brien for pointing out my error in interpretation of Nigerian gross domestic product (G.D.P.) during the war. His correction also helps to resolve a contradiction between my treatment of Biafran territory and my statement that ‘Other factors accounting for the slow growth were the drop in oil and manufacturing output in the secessionist East.’
Cavernous malformations of the thalamus: a relatively rare but controversial entity.

T t o e o I n this issue of WORLD NEUROSURGERY, Li et al. report the largest series (retrospective) to date of cavernous malformations of the thalamus treated surgically (27 patients). Based n multivariate regression analysis, age (less than 40 years) was he only significant predictor of favorable outcome. Good outomes were achieved in 21 (78%) patients, and the rate of omplete resection was 96.8%. Residual cavernous malformaion was avoided in all but one patient. It would have been nteresting to know the exact timing of postoperative magnetic esonance imaging (MRI), because immediate hemorrhage in a esection cavity can mask or overestimate the extent of a esidual lesion.
Role of IFN Regulatory Factor-1 and IL-12 in Immunological Resistance to Pathogenesis of N-Methyl-N-Nitrosourea-Induced T Lymphoma

IFN regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1) is a critical effector molecule in IFN signaling and acts as a tumor suppressor and tumor susceptibility gene. IL-12 is a key factor in the induction of innate resistance and generation of Th1 cells and CTL. Our recent study has revealed an intimate relationship between IRF-1 and IL-12 in that IRF-1 regulates the production of IL-12 by selectively controlling transcriptional activation of IL-12 p35 gene. In this work, we find that IRF-1-deficient mice are highly susceptible to N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU)-induced T lymphomas. This susceptibility is associated with strong defects in the expression of IL-12, lymphotoxin (LT)beta, and IFN-gamma. Consistently, IL-12 p35(-/-), IFN-gamma(-/-), and LTbeta(-/-) mice are also highly vulnerable to MNU-induced carcinogenesis. Administration of rIL-12 to IRF-1(-/-) mice restores normal expression of LTbeta and IFN-gamma, and significantly enhances the ability of IRF-1(-/-) mice to resist MNU-induced pathogenesis. This strongly suggests an IRF-1/IL-12/IFN-gamma regulatory axis in tumor surveillance. By DNA microarray analysis, we comprehensively identify differences and patterns in gene expression in splenocytes of wild-type (WT) vs IRF-1(-/-) mice challenged with MNU. This study contributes to efforts to elucidate the cellular/molecular mechanisms and the downstream players involved in IRF-1-mediated host defense against lymphoproliferative malignancies.
Perceived Male Sex Orientation and Beliefs About Rape

This paper examines the relationship between male sex role orientation and beliefs in rape myths. Five variables were controlled: religious belief (fundamentalist), academic interest (nonarts and arts), sister relationship, and maternal employment. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire mailed to 400 male college students randomly chosen from selected academic areas. Tests of correlation were used to analyze these data. The results indicate (1) male sex role orientation is significantly correlated with general belief in rape myths; (2) religion (fundamentalist), academic interest (arts), and sister variable significantly increased the strength of the sex role/general rape belief relationship; and (3) male sex role orientation is significantly correlated with five specific rape myths.
In Vitro Resistance Study of Rupintrivir, a Novel Inhibitor of Human Rhinovirus 3C Protease

Rupintrivir (formerly AG7088) is an irreversible inhibitor of the human rhinovirus (HRV) 3C protease that has been demonstrated to have in vitro activity against all HRVs tested, consistent with its interaction with a strictly conserved subset of amino acids in the 3C protease. The potential for resistance was studied following in vitro serial passage of HRV serotypes 14, 2, 39, and Hanks in the presence of increasing rupintrivir concentrations. HRV variants with reduced susceptibilities to rupintrivir (sevenfold for HRV 14) or with no significant reductions in susceptibility but genotypic changes (HRV 2, 39, and Hanks) were initially isolated following 14 to 40 cumulative days in culture (three to six passages). Sequence analysis of the 3C protease identified one to three substitutions in diverse patterns but with common features (T129T/A, T131T/A, and T143P/S in HRV 14; N165T in HRV 2; N130N/K and L136L/F in HRV 39; T130A in HRV Hanks). Notably, three of the four HRV variants contained a substitution at residue 130 (residue 129 in HRV 14). Continued selection in the presence of escalating concentrations of rupintrivir (40 to 72 days) resulted in the accumulation of additional mutations (A121A/V and Y139Y/H in HRV 14, E3E/G and A103A/V in HRV 2, S105T in HRV 39), with only minimal further reductions in susceptibility (up to fivefold). The ability of specific substitutions to confer resistance was examined by susceptibility testing of HRV 14 variants constructed to contain 3C protease mutations. In summary, the slow accumulation of multiple amino acid substitutions with only minimal to moderate reductions in susceptibility highlight the advantages of 3C protease as an antiviral target.
Pharmacokinetic Interactions Augment Toxicities of Sirolimus/Cyclosporine Combinations

This study correlated the dynamic effects of sirolimus (rapamycin; RAPA) and cyclosporine (CsA) alone versus in combination to produce renal dysfunction, myelosuppression, or hyperlipidemia, with their corresponding blood and tissue concentrations. After salt-depleted rats were treated with RAPA (0.4 to 6.4 mg/kg per d) and/or CsA (2.5 to 20.0 mg/kg per d) for 14 d, the GFR, lipid levels, bone marrow cellularity, and CsA/RAPA concentrations in whole blood versus liver or renal tissues were measured, and the median effect model was used to discern the type of drug interactions. Compared with vehicle controls (1.98 +/- 0.34 ml/min), GFR values were reduced only by large doses of drug monotherapy, namely RAPA (3.2 mg/kg per d = 1.2 +/- 0.02 ml/min or 6.4 mg/kg per d = 1.3 +/- 0.2 ml/min; both P < 0.01) or CsA (10.0 mg/kg per d = 1.2 +/- 0.1 ml/min or 20.0 mg/kg per d = 0.8 +/- 0.4 ml/min; both P < 0.01). In contrast, hosts that were treated with smaller doses of CsA/RAPA combinations showed more pronounced effects in reduction of GFR values: 2.5/0.4 mg/kg per d, modestly (1.5 +/- 0.5 ml/min; P < 0.01); 5.0/0.8 mg/kg per d, moderately (0.23 +/- 0.01 ml/min; P < 0.001); and higher-dose groups, markedly. The exacerbation of renal dysfunction seemed to be due to a pharmacokinetic interaction of RAPA to greatly increase CsA concentrations in whole blood and, particularly, in kidney tissue. In contrast, the pharmacodynamic effects of CsA to potentiate two RAPA-mediated toxicities-myelosuppression and increased serum cholesterol/low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-occurred independently of pharmacokinetic interactions. RAPA aggravates CsA-induced renal dysfunction owing to a pharmacokinetic interaction, whereas CsA produces a pharmacodynamic effect that augments RAPA-induced myelosuppression and hyperlipidemia.
The effect of different cross-correlation methods on the dual apodization with cross-correlation algorithm

We have recently presented a new method to suppress side lobes and clutter in ultrasound imaging called dual apodization with cross-correlation or DAX. This method uses two apodization functions in receive mode which yield point spread functions with very similar main lobes but different side lobes and clutter. These similarities and differences are quantified by using normalized cross-correlation of the radio frequency (RF) data in the axial direction. These cross-correlation coefficients serve as a pixel-by-pixel weighting or filter to pass main lobe dominated signals and suppress clutter dominated signals. In this paper, we investigate the effect of different cross-correlation methods and cross-correlation segment size on contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) using the DAX algorithm. When using 1-D axial cross-correlation, an axial segment size of 1.73 mm gave us the highest CNR with 125% improvement. Using 1-D lateral cross-correlation showed a 91% improvement in CNR with a segment size of 1.05 mm. 2-D cross-correlation showed a 145% improvement with segment size of 1.2 mm axially by 0.45 mm laterally. A simulation using a cylindrical 1.5 mm diameter anechoic cyst located at 30 mm depth embedded in a 3-D phantom of scatterers gave us a CNR improvement of 52% with 2-D cross-correlation. Lastly, using an excised sheep heart, DAX was able to improve CNR by at least 77%.
Frontal White Matter Biochemical Abnormalities in Late-Life Major Depression Detected With Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

OBJECTIVE: Neuroanatomical abnormalities have been identified in patients with late-life mood disorders by using magnetic resonance imaging. This study examined the biochemical correlates of late-life major depression in the frontal gray and white matter by using single-voxel proton spectroscopy. METHOD: Twenty elderly patients with major depression and 18 comparison subjects similar in age and gender to the patients were scanned on a 1.5-T magnetic resonance scanner with head coil. Voxels were placed in the left dorsolateral white matter and bilaterally in the anterior cingulate gray matter. Absolute levels of N-acetylaspartate, choline, myo-inositol, and creatine were estimated with the LC-Model algorithm. Ratios of metabolite to creatine levels were computed from the absolute values. RESULTS: myo-Inositol/creatine and choline/creatine ratios were significantly higher in the frontal white matter in the major depression group than in the comparison group. The groups had no significant differences in the ...
Rohlin's invariant and gauge theory, I. Homology 3-tori

This is the first in a series of papers exploring the relationship between the Rohlin invariant and gauge theory. We discuss a Casson-type invariant of a 3-manifold Y with the integral homology of the 3-torus, given by counting projectively flat U(2)-connections. We show that its mod 2 evaluation is given by the triple cup product in cohomology, and so it coincides with a certain sum of Rohlin invariants of Y. Our counting argument makes use of a natural action of H^1 (Y;Z_2) on the moduli space of projectively flat connections; along the way we construct perturbations that are equivariant with respect to this action. Combined with the Floer exact triangle, this gives a purely gauge-theoretic proof that Casson's homology sphere invariant reduces mod 2 to the Rohlin invariant
Audiences implicadas e ignoradas in the English and Spanish language 2002 Texas gubernatorial debates

ABSTRACT In the 2002 Texas Democratic primary for Governor, two Latino candidates faced off in a pair of historic debates: one in English and one in Spanish. In this study the authors examined the questions and answers from these debates to uncover the audiences implied and ignored in the English and Spanish events. They found that the English language questions were longer, linked to the Democratic Party, and required candidate accountability, whereas the Spanish language questions were shorter, more candidate-centered, and focused on racial and border concerns. They also found remarkable symmetry between the questions and answers in both debates: policy, race, and border-related questions were met with policy, race and border-related responses, candidate-centered questions received strategic responses and non-traditional questions begot careful responses—a pattern that made the English language debate more substantive in questions and answers than the Spanish language counterpart. This essay details the...
Central Nervous System Complications After Transplantation

The incidence of serious neurologic complications after organ and stem cell transplantation can be as high as 20% to 30%, with most occurring in the early posttransplant period. Encephalopathy often results from metabolic disturbances and immunosuppressant drug neurotoxicity but can also occur with central pontine myelinolysis and other lesions of the central nervous system (CNS). Seizures are also common and can be related to drug toxicity or herald CNS disorders. A thorough evaluation of any patient who develops seizures or mental status changes after transplantation is warranted to distinguish transient reversible causes from serious CNS disorders.
Coupling of deformation and reactions during mid‐crustal shear zone development: an in situ frictional–viscous transition

A well preserved strain and reaction gradient records the progressive transformation of a megacrystic Kfs+Cpx+Opx+Bt1±Qtz syenitic pluton to a strongly sheared Kfs+Act+Bt2+Ab+Qtz tectonite within the exhumed Norumbega Fault System, Maine, USA. Detailed microstructural analysis indicates that fracturing and localized fluid infiltration initiated the deconstruction of the existing K-feldspar and two-pyroxene load-bearing framework, and that feedback among metamorphic reactions, fabric development and enhanced permeability during progressive shearing led to the development of an interconnected, biotite- and actinolite-rich foliation. The activation of dislocation creep in biotite and quartz, and dissolution-precipitation creep in actinolite and feldspar, with increasing strain ultimately resulted in a transition from dominantly frictional to dominantly viscous deformation processes. Petrological data show that various scales of geochemical disequilibrium exist across the strain and reaction gradient, and that reaction progress was limited by slow chemical diffusion during the early stages of deformation. Petrological modelling results indicate that the existing plutonic assemblage was metastable at mid-crustal conditions, and that fluid infiltration and deformation allowed the product assemblage to advance towards chemical equilibration. Comparison of the observed microstructures and deformation mechanisms with experimental and numerical modelling results suggest that the development of an interconnected biotite-dominated fabric probably caused a major (up to three fold) reduction in bulk rock strength and localization of strain into the foliated margin.
Imperative self-adjusting computation

Self-adjusting computation enables writing programs that can automatically and efficiently respond to changes to their data (e.g., inputs). The idea behind the approach is to store all data that can change over time in modifiable references and to let computations construct traces that can drive change propagation. After changes have occurred, change propagation updates the result of the computation by re-evaluating only those expressions that depend on the changed data. Previous approaches to self-adjusting computation require that modifiable references be written at most once during execution---this makes the model applicable only in a purely functional setting.In this paper, we present techniques for imperative self-adjusting computation where modifiable references can be written multiple times. We define a language SAIL (Self-Adjusting Imperative Language) and prove consistency, i.e., that change propagation and from-scratch execution are observationally equivalent. Since SAIL programs are imperative, they can create cyclic data structures. To prove equivalence in the presence of cycles in the store, we formulate and use an untyped, step-indexed logical relation, where step indices are used to ensure well-foundedness. We show that SAIL accepts an asymptotically efficient implementation by presenting algorithms and data structures for its implementation. When the number of operations (reads and writes) per modifiable is bounded by a constant, we show that change propagation becomes as efficient as in the non-imperative case. The general case incurs a slowdown that is logarithmic in the maximum number of such operations. We describe a prototype implementation of SAIL as a Standard ML library.