cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Improved cross-correlation for template matching on the Laplacian pyramid

Template matching via cross-correlation on Laplacian pyramid image architectures has been traditionally performed in a ''coarse'' to ''fine'' fashion. In the present paper, we show that by computing cross-correlation within each level of the pyramid independently, and considering the sum across (expanded) levels, a significant improvement in Peak to Correlation Energy (PCE) (Kumar and Hassebrook, 1992) is obtained. This result is illustrated with a number of numerical examples.
Love at first smell--the 2004 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.

This fall, Linda Buck and Richard Axel were awarded the 2004 Nobel Prize "for their discoveries of odorant receptors and the organization of the olfactory system." Dr. Peter Mombaerts writes that t...
Contributions of genomics to life-history theory

Life-history theory seeks to understand the factors that produce variation in life histories that are found both among and within species. At the organismal level there is a well developed mathematical framework, and an important focus of the current research is determining the biological underpinnings of this framework, with particular attention to the causal mechanisms that underlie trade-offs. Genomic approaches are proving useful in addressing this issue.
Economic production as chemistry

Inspired by the hypercycle model of the origins of chemical life on earth, this paper develops an autocatalytic model of the co-evolution of economic production and economic firms, represented as skills. The production and distribution of goods by firms are only half of what is accomplished in markets. Firms are produced and transformed, via learning, through goods passing through them. Through means of both agent-based and analytic modeling, this article establishes three principles of social organization that provide sufficient foundations for the unconscious evolution of technological complexityc structured topology, altruistic learning and stigmergy. Copyright 2003, Oxford University Press.
The function of E- and id proteins in lymphocyte development

Helix-loop-helix proteins are essential factors for lymphocyte development and function. In particular, E-proteins are crucial for commitment of lymphoid progenitors to the B- and T-cell lineages. E-proteins are negatively regulated by the Id class of helix-loop-helix proteins. The Id proteins function as dominant-negative inhibitors of E-proteins by inhibiting their ability to bind DNA. Here, we review the role of E-proteins and their Id protein antagonists in lymphocyte proliferation and developmental progression. In addition, we discuss how E-protein activity and Id gene expression are regulated by T-cell receptor (TCR) and pre-TCR-mediated signalling.
The infrared determination of the composition of stearic acid multilayers deposited from salt substrata of varying pH

Abstract Infrared techniques were used to determine the effect of pH on the composition of stearic acid films on substrates containing dilute solutions of lead, copper, aluminum, calcium, barium, sodium, and quaternary ammonium salts. It was found that the pH region at which interaction of salts with the film occurs is characteristic for the particular salt and narrower than previously generally reported.
A boundary integral modification of the Galerkin least squares formulation for the Stokes problem

Abstract A new boundary integral term is added to the Galerkin least squares (GLS) formulation. The new formulation compensates for a lack of consistency noted for the traditional GLS method when bilinear interpolation is used on quadrilateral elements. Exact solutions at the nodes are obtained for Poiseuille flow and another test problem, and the pressure singularity for the driven cavity is better captured.
A Functional Comparison of BRCA1 C-terminal Domains in Transcription Activation and Chromatin Remodeling

The BRCA1 C-terminal (BRCT) domain is present in a number of proteins that are involved in various aspects of chromosomal events. The BRCT domain of BRCA1 is important for its function in DNA repair and transcriptional activation. When tethered to chromosomal DNA, this region of BRCA1 is capable of inducing changes in chromatin structure. Despite the sequence homology and functional proximity shared by the BRCT-containing proteins, it is not clear whether different BRCT domains confer a common biochemical activity. Much less is known about the functional significance of the characteristic amino acid residues in the BRCT motif. Here, we show that chromatin remodeling and transcription activation is not a common feature of BRCT domains. However, the BRCT domain of the multi-functional repressor-activator protein 1 (RAP1) can activate transcription and remodel chromatin in a manner similar to that shown for the BRCA1 BRCT domain. Most of the conserved amino acid residues in the second BRCA1 BRCT domain are essential for its function in transcriptional activation. In contrast, mutations of many analogous amino acid residues in the RAP1 BRCT domain greatly elevate the transcriptional activity. These data indicate that the conserved residues in these two BRCT domains may play different roles in transcriptional activation.
Staphylococcal colonization of caretakers of children who have community-acquired skin and soft tissue infections

Abstract Purpose Colonization with Staphylococcus aureus is considered a risk factor for the rising incidence of pediatric community-acquired skin and soft tissue infections (CA-SSTIs), and intrafamily spread is thought to be the source of colonization. Methods A prospective study was conducted to determine skin and nasal staphylococcal colonization rates among the caretakers of CA-SSTI patients and those of nonabscess controls. A questionnaire regarding risk factors was administered to all participants. Fisher's Exact test and the χ 2 test were used for statistical analysis. Results Forty-six patients and their caretakers were enrolled in both the study and control groups. Of the caretakers in the study group, 19.6% (n = 9) had staphylococcal colonization of nares; and 2.2% (n = 1), skin. In the control group, 17.4% (n = 8) had nasal colonization; and none had skin colonization. Of the children in the study group, 58.7% (n = 27) had a family history of CA-SSTI compared with only 17.4% (n = 8) of controls ( P = .0001). Of CA-SSTI patients, 45.7% (n = 21) had prior abscesses compared with 6.5% (n = 3) of controls ( P = .0001). No other risk factor was identified. Conclusion There was no increase in nasal or skin staphylococcal colonization among caretakers of children with CA-SSTI. Family and personal histories of CA-SSTI were the only identified risk factors for CA-SSTI.
Optimisation of the finish hard turning process for hardened 52100 steel with PCBN tools

This study develops a methodology for the planning of optimal tool geometry and cutting conditions to achieve specific performance goals, a satisfactory surface finish, and other practical constraints, while using the example of finish turning of hardened AISI 52100 bearing steel with Low CBN tools. A hierarchical structure modelling scheme for predicting white layer thickness and residual stress profiles is pursued to integrate the existing experimental, numerical and analytical knowledge into the process planning in an effective manner. Other hard turning process models, including temperature, force, surface roughness and tool wear, are also presented. Some of those models are non-explicit and are not analytically differentiable from the design variables, which renders traditional nonlinear optimisation techniques difficult to apply. An evolutionary optimisation scheme, a Mixed Integer Evolutionary Algorithm (MIEA), has been applied for this process optimisation problem. The optimal design outcomes derived from the methodology in this study were compared to other experimental and analytical work results for validation.
Exercise training does not reduce hyperlipidemia in pigs fed a high-fat diet

The pig is often used as a model for studying lipoprotein metabolism as it relates to human atherosclerosis, but few studies have examined the complete lipoprotein profile and related enzymes in swine ingesting an atherogenic diet. We examined whether exercise training would moderate the effects of an atherogenic diet on lipoproteins and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity in miniature swine. Male (n = 30) and female (n = 32) swine were initially divided into 2 dietary groups: one consumed low-fat (8%) pig chow, and one consumed pig chow supplemented with 2% cholesterol, 17.1% coconut oil, 2.3% corn oil, and.7% sodium cholate (46% kcal from fat). Following 30 days on the diets, pigs from each diet group were further divided into sedentary and exercise trained subgroups, each cell with 6 to 8 pigs. Training occurred 5 days per week on a treadmill in which the intensity and duration were progressively increased during the 16- to 20-week training period to 75 minutes of aerobic running per session. A 4-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures on time indicated that at the conclusion of the study the atherogenic diet caused significantly (P <.05) increased cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and subfractions, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and subfractions, and LPL activity in both genders. For cholesterol, TG, HDL-C, HDL(2)-C, LDL-C, LDL(1&2)-C, and hepatic lipase, the female response to the diet was exaggerated compared to the male response. Exercise training produced no group differences or interactions on any lipoprotein variable. These results suggest that an atherogenic diet has a greater impact on the lipoproteins of female miniature swine than males. Furthermore, under the conditions of this study, exercise training does not moderate the effects of an atherogenic diet on lipoproteins.
Pemetrexed Long-Term Maintenance Treatment Leading to Multiple Finger Amputation; Cardiovascular Complications After Energy Drink Consumption; Compartment Syndrome Due to Extravasation of Intravenous Contrast; Blue-Gray Mucocutaneous Discoloration with Ezogabine

Abstract The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of prevention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) MedWatch program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting, preventable ADR to MedWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers. Write to Dr. Mancano at ISMP, 200 Lakeside Drive, Suite 200, Horsham, PA 19044 (phone: 215-707-4936; e-mail: mmancano@temple.edu). Your report will be published anonymously unless otherwise requested. This feature is provided by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) in cooperation with the FDA's Med Watch program and Temple University School of Pharmacy. ISMP is an FDA Med Watch partner.
New and Improved Imaging Modalities for NAFLD

Non-invasive detection and quantitative assessment of NAFLD is important as it is associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. Differentiation of isolated steatosis (IS) from steatohepatitis (NASH) is critical as a NASH can progress to cirrhosis and develop associated complications such as portal hypertension and hepatocellular carcinoma. Current imaging techniques such as ultrasound and CT are useful for detection and can perform limited quantification of hepatic steatosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques and MR spectroscopy (MRS) are accurate for fat quantification. Newer imaging techniques are emerging, which can provide more accurate fat quantification and differentiation of subtypes of NAFLD. Proton density fat fraction (PDFF) is an emerging MR based biomarker demonstrating promise for accurate fat quantification. Elastography techniques and in particular, magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) may be able to differentiate IS from NASH, although further studies are needed to confirm. MRI with MRE can provide a one-stop comprehensive evaluation of NAFLD including fat quantification and differentiation of NASH from IS.
Mean reversal for stochastic hybrid systems

Abstract Consider two discrete time Markov chains on a finite state space with ±1 win or lose payoff subject to transition between the states. We introduce a class of processes whose cumulative expected payoffs are decreasing in time but, whenever the processes are chosen at random by flipping a fair coin, the expected payoff for the randomized process becomes increasing in time. The seemingly counterintuitive long time run mean reversal generalizes the idea of combining two losing games into a winning one, known as Parrondo’s Paradox.
The Role of Youth's Ratings of the Importance of Socially Supportive Behaviors in the Relationship between Social Support and Self-Concept.

The goal of this study was to investigate the relationship between the perceived frequency and perceived importance of social support with youth’s self-concept. Data from a large representative sample of 921 children and adolescents in grades 3 through 12 were analyzed. Results indicated that the relationships between the frequency of social support from parents, teachers, classmates, and close friends with self-concept were significant. However, only the perceived importance of social support from teachers was significantly related to self-concept. Finally, an interaction was found between the frequency of social support and the importance of social support from classmates and close friends on self-concept. These results suggest that self-evaluations of the importance of teacher support may be especially influential for youths’ self-concept, and that the ability to discount the value of support from classmates and friends, when it is lacking, may be protective to the self-concept of children and adolescents.
Synergism of malathion and parathion against resistant insects: phosphorus esters with synergistic properties.

Many phosphorus esters were evaluated as synergists for malathion against resistant strains of the house fly, Musca domestica L., and the mosquito Culex tarsalis Coquillett. Several were tested as synergists for parathion against parathion-resistant house flies. S, S, S -and O, S, S -trialkyl and mixed alkyl phosphorothioates and phosphorothioates synergized malathion and/or parathion against both insect species. With mosquitoes, butyl-containing esters were most effective; with flies esters containing isopropyl, propyl, or butyl groups were strongly synergistic. S, S -dialkyl O -or S -phenyl phosphorothioites also were active. O, O, O -triphenyl phosphorus compounds synergized malathion against both species; their S, S, S -triphenyl analogs were much less active. In general, tolyl and other substituted phenyl phosphates were malathion synergists against resistant mosquitoes only. The materials synergizing malathion against resistant insects differed considerably from those known to potentiate the toxicity of malathion to mice or to cause ataxia in chickens.
Contextualized Language Practices as Sites for Learning: Mealtime Talk in Short-Term Chinese Homestays

When, in homestays abroad, mealtime is understood as key to the maintenance and development of family identity and involves routine gathering for nourishment and convivial talk, students attribute much of their language learning to these events. In this project, we adopt a microgenetic approach to the study of mealtime discourse as a learning opportunity for three American high school students of varying proficiency in Chinese and their Chinese hosts. Specifically, analysis of contextualized language practices at mealtime reveals the qualities of these interactions for learning Chinese and American culinary practices, related language, and associated ideologies. Our findings suggest that even short-term homestays can be particularly rich environments for language learning as hosts and students explore divergent views on the aesthetic, moral, and health-related dimensions of eating.
Relationship Between Home Musical Environment and Selected Musical Attributes of Second-Grade Children

The purpose of this research was to investigate the relationship between home musical environment and musical attributes among second-grade (primarily) Mexican-American school children. Parental musical involvement with child, attitude toward music, and other aspects of the home musical environment were examined as sources of variance in tonal and rhythmic perception and school musical achievement. Data from 116 students and their parents were analyzed by means of setwise multiple regression. Although analyses revealed that scores on the Home Musical Environmental Scale (HOMES) were not significantly related to tonal or rhythmic perception, the results did show a statistically significant relationship, p < .001, between scores on the HOMES and musical achievement as assessed by the subjects' music teachers. The scores on the HOMES account for 20% of the variance in musical achievement scores. Additionally, an important finding in this study is that not all home musical environmental variables are related ...
Ultrasonic reflection by a planar distribution of cracks

Ultrasonic wave reflection and transmission by planar crack distributions is considered. General expressions for the reflection and transmission coefficients are derived for incident longitudinal and transverse time harmonic plane waves. For low frequencies, closed-form algebraic expressions are given in terms of the geometrical parameters, the material constants, and the incident wavefield. The results have been extended to statistical distributions, and reflection coefficients for equivalent statistical and deterministic distributions of penny-shaped cracks are compared. It is also shown that the Mode-I stress-intensity factor for a distribution of equal-sized cracks can be directly related to reflection data.
Transient Two-Dimensional Compressible Analysis for High-Temperature Heat Pipes with Pulsed Heat Input

A complete mathematical model for transient two-dimensional heat pipes is presented. The numerical results for both simulated compressible vapor flow with high Mach numbers and the vapor flow of a high-temperature heat pipe are compared with the experimental data in the literature. The transient responses of heat pipes to a pulsed heat input are also investigated. It is very important to include the porous wick and the wall in the numerical calculations for the transient analysis of heat pipes and to treat the entire heat pipe as a single system rather than to analyze the vapor flow alone.
Experiments and computer simulations of iron profiles in p/p+ silicon: segregation and the position of the iron donor level

Abstract The position of the iron donor trap level in the silicon band gap at processing temperatures determines numerous important properties of iron such as its solubility and effective diffusivity. Thus this position influences the time and efficiency of the widely used p/p+ segregation gettering, i.e. the removal of iron from an epitaxial p-type silicon layer (the device region) by a heavily p+-doped silicon substrate. In this work, the iron concentration profiles within a 70 μm p-type epitaxial layer on a p+-type substrate were quantitatively measured using deep level transient spectroscopy in order to determine the position of the iron donor level. The samples are first intentionally contaminated with iron at 920°C and then annealed at 472°C for various times. The measured iron profiles are fitted with computer simulations in order to determine the iron trap level and the segregation coefficient at 472°C. The results indicate that the iron trap level is at Ev +0.32 eV at 472°C. The results of this study and of previous studies indicate that the iron donor level decreases in proportion to the band-gap narrowing.
Decarboxylation of 2,2'-bipyridinyl-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid diethyl ester during microwave synthesis of the corresponding trichelated ruthenium complex

Microwave reaction of RuCl3 with 2,2'-bipyridinyl-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid diethyl ester (debpy) in ethylene glycol generated Ru(bpy)3(2+) instead of the expected Ru(debpy)3(2+). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the headspace revealed CO2, and Ru(bpy)3(2+) was recovered from the filtrate. Further experiments suggest that RuCl3 decarboxylates debpy during microwave synthesis.
Regulation of amino acid uptake into cerebral microvessels.

Abstract The carrier-mediated transport systems, found in cerebral endothelium, are responsible for maintaining the nutrient milieu of the CNS. The objective of this study was to identify what factors might regulate the sodium-dependent A-system of neutral amino acid transport in isolated cerebral microvessels. The uptake of amino acids into isolated microvessels was measured using methylaminoisobutyric acid (MeAIB) a nonhydrolyzable A-analog of the A-system carrier. The results indicated that stimulation of adrenergic (both α and β) receptors significantly ( P P These results indicate that the uptake of neutral amino acids, through the A-system, into cerebral microvessels, can be modulated by adrenergic and cholinergic receptors, as well as the metal ion aluminum. Since the A-system of amino acid transport may control appropriate levels of amino acids in brain, modulation of the uptake of amino acids by adrenergic and cholinergic receptors and by aluminum, may be associated with an imbalance of amino acids and possible neurotransmitter defects in the CNS.
Real-Time Definable Languages

The closure properties of the class of languages defined by real-time, online, multi-tape Turing machines are proved. The results obtained are, for the most part, negative and, as one would expect, asymmetric. It is shown that the results remain valid for a broad class of real-time devices. Finally, the position of the class of real-time definable languages in the “classical” linguistic hierarchy is established.
A profile of recent doctoral graduates in accounting: Some guidance in what to expect☆

Abstract This article reports results of a survey of recent accounting doctoral graduates (1985 and 1986). The study profiles the graduates by summarizing their academic skills, background, and other personal information. It also summarizes the dollars and time successful graduates invested in earning doctoral degrees. Candidates, on average, completed all requirements within 5 years. Those candidates who spent the majority of their time at the institution where they studied were able to finish sooner. Candidates who chose to leave ABD took more time to finish their dissertations. Graduates of “higher-tier” schools were more likely to be employed by AACSB and doctoral-granting programs and to receive higher salaries.
Orgasmic reconditioning to redirect sexual arousal in pedophiles

Two male pedophiles were treated by orgasmic reconditioning for periods of six and eight weeks. Pretreatment assessment of sexual arousal indicated high responsiveness to stimuli of young boys, while response to adults was considerably lower or absent. Treatment consisted of having the participant masturbate to ejaculation while speaking his fantasy aloud. Weeks wherein he masturbated to deviant themes (boys) were alternated with weeks where the theme was nondeviant (women). Several hours after the masturbation sessions, each participant underwent a measurement session in which his response to three deviant and three nondeviant slides was evaluated and attitude measures administered. Results for one subject indicated that sexual response to both stimulus categories declined. Posttreatment reassessment showed that he continued to respond as a pedophile. Results for the second subject showed considerable increases in response to adults and decline in response to children. Posttreatment reassessment showed a shift in sexual arousal away from young boys and toward adult females. Followup measurement sessions with this subject indicated that treatment gains were maintained two months following the end of treatment.
Discourse of segregation and inclusion: a discourse analysis of a Russian newspaper for teachers

In Russia, children with disabilities have limited access to inclusive education. This article presents the findings of a discourse analysis of 32 newspaper articles focused on the education of children with disabilities, all of which appeared in a Russian newspaper for teachers. We identified two discursive patterns about the education of children with disabilities: preserving a special approach and removing barriers. These patterns highlighted the tensions that exist between the long-standing medical approach to special education and the emergent, inclusive initiatives. Our findings emphasize the need to create space for the perspectives of people with disabilities to be heard, while also serving to shape the future direction of the educational systems within Russia.
A distributed and adaptive signal processing approach to exploiting correlation in sensor networks

Abstract We propose a novel approach to reducing energy consumption in sensor networks using a distributed adaptive signal processing framework and efficient algorithm. 1 While the topic of energy-aware routing to alleviate energy consumption in sensor networks has received attention recently [C. Toh, IEEE Commun. Mag. June (2001) 138; R. Shah, J. Rabaey, Proc. IEEE WCNC, March 2002], in this paper, we propose an orthogonal approach to complement previous methods. Specifically, we propose a distributed way of continuously exploiting existing correlations in sensor data based on adaptive signal processing and distributed source coding principles. Our approach enables sensor nodes to blindly compress their readings with respect to one another without the need for explicit and energy-expensive inter-sensor communication to effect this compression. Furthermore, the distributed algorithm used by each sensor node is extremely low in complexity and easy to implement (i.e., one modulo operation), while an adaptive filtering framework is used at the data gathering unit to continuously learn the relevant correlation structures in the sensor data. Applying the algorithm to testbed data resulted in energy savings of 10–65% for a multitude of sensor modalities.
The Heat Stability and Feathering of Sweet Cream, as Affected by Different Homogenization Pressures and Different Temperatures of Forewarming

Summary 1. The heat stability of cream, measured in terms of time of coagulation at 120°C. as affected by butterfat content, temperature of heating before homogenization, and homogenization pressure has been determined. A definite relationship was found in their influence on heat stability. 2. An increase of homogenization pressure lowered the time of coagulation. Maximum stability resulting from preheating occurred when 80°C. was used, and minimum stability during sterilization occurred when 60°C. was used. An increase in butterfat content invariably lowered the heat stability of homogenized cream. 3. The same general relationship exists in pasteurized as in preheated cream, with the exception that the point of maximum heat stability shifts from 80°C. in preheated creams to approximately 70° to 74°C. in pasteurized creams. 4. Where pasteurization was practiced prevention of feathering was partially successful by the treatment producing maximum heat stability, namely pasteurization for thirty minutes at 70° to 74°C. 5. The basic criterion for predicting whether or not a cream will feather is quality. Acidity and H-ion concentration were used for quality determinations. Pure, fresh cream of 20 per cent butterfat content and of 0.15 per cent acidity can generally be pasteurized from 65° to 85°C. and homogenized at any pressure up to 3000 pounds without danger of feathering. With optimum treatment 0.165 per cent acidity is the danger line for feathering. 6. An increase of viscosity of preheated homogenized cream is accompanied by a decrease in heat stability. It is suggested that variation of potential upon the fat globules may be an important factor in determining the heat stability of the product. 7. In the preparation of sterile cream for market purposes maximum stability during sterilization was obtained by preheating to approximately 80°C. before homogenization.
Variation in responsiveness to synthetic LH-releasing factor (LRF) in proestrous and diestrous-3 rats.

Synthetic LRF, prepared by solid phase methodology and purified by ion exchange chromatography, was administered under pentobarbital anesthesia at 1500 hr to 4-day cyclingrats in proestrus and 5-day cycling rats on thethird day of diestrus (D-3) in single intravenousdoses from 100 to 1000 ng per animal. SerumLH at 15, 30, 90 min and 20 hr after LRF wasmeasured by radioimmunoassay and ovaries andampullae were removed at 20 hr and examinedmicroscopically for ovulation. Although a 5 ngdose of this LRF produced a 9-fold increase inLH in the ovariectomized rat pretreated withestrogen and progesterone, 100 ng LRF on D-3of the 5-day cycle failed to elevate serum LHabove the minimum detectable level of 60 ng/ml. An apparent small rise in LH after 250 ng LRFon D-3 was not statistically significant, but significantelevations were observed after 500, 750 and 1000 ng LRF. By contrast LH levelswere significantly increased during proestrus ofthe 4-day cycle after 100, 250, 500, 750 and 1000ng LRF, with post-LRF values ...
Why New Tobacco “Harm-Reduction” Products Should Be Regulated

Abstract “Snus” consist of loose ground tobacco in a very small tea bag–like pouch, placed behind the upper gum for up to 30 minutes. With a different curing process and in the absence of combustion, several carcinogens are reduced, if not eliminated. Epidemiological studies in Sweden, where snus were developed and adopted by approximately 20% of males, have found few, if any, increases in oral/head cancers or cardiovascular risks. Although snus are considerably safer than cigarettes from the perspective of an individual smoker, from a broader societal perspective, at least three problems suggest the need for regulatory oversight: (1) Snus could serve as a “gateway” product for adolescents; (2) snus could serve as a temporary bridge/replacement product for smokers in situations in which cigarettes cannot be used, thus dampening their motivation to quit smoking; and (3) studies have found potentially heightened risks of pancreatic cancer, premature birth, dental disease, and oral lesions among users.
Development of cleavage in lapilli-bearing volcaniclastic rock

Abstract The development of cleavage in a suite of lithic and accretionary lapilli-bearing volcaniclastic rocks of known strain ( \ ge s = 0.14−2.4 ) has been studied. Analysis of these specimens reveals that various mechanisms of cleavage formation have been active during the deformation. In both lithic and accretionary lapilli-bearing rock, the cleavage in the matrix appears to have formed directly by recrystallization of devitrified and/or altered volcanic glass (ash). Preferred alignment of the neoblasts in the matrix with increasing strain results from some combination of neocrystallization parallel to cleavage and at an angle to the cleavage followed by rotation into that plane as the deformation progresses. Fragments in lithic lapilli-bearing rocks show two stages of rotation during cleavage development. The first stage ( \ ge s = 0 to ∼ 0.60; + \ ge 1 = 0 to ∼ 40%; − \ ge 3 = 0 to ∼ 35% , where \ ge 1 ⩾ \ ge 2 ⩾ \ ge 3 , elongations) is dominated by rigid body rotation of lapilli. Recrystallization and shape change of the lapilli accompanying the rotation are slight at first, but increases with strain. In the second stage ( \ ge s > 0.60 ), recrystallization becomes pronounced, and is accompanied by a ductile flattening of lapilli facilitated by inter- and intragranular movements. These movements allow the lapilli to rotate by migration of the vertex along the lapilli perimeter, and is accompanied by increasing axial ratios. In the accretionary lapilli-bearing rocks, lapilli show one continuous stage of rotation up to values of strain where \ ge s ∼ 1.25 (+ \ ge 1 ∼ 110%, − \ ge 3 − 65%) . Recrystallization is active from the start, rendering the lapilli ductile even in the early stages of deformation. Lapilli rotate and increase their axial ratios by the flattening process active in the second stage described for lithic lapilli. Once the values of strain exceed \ ge s > 1.25 , rotation of lapilli is essentially complete, although their axial ratios continue to increase with strain. Primary crystals in both rock types also show two stages of rotation. In the first stage ( \ ge s = 0 to ∼ 0.70; + \ ge 1 = 0 to ∼ 50%, − \ ge s = 0 to ∼ 40% ), the primary crystals undergo essentially all their rotation which is accompanied by some plastic deformation, fracturing, and minor quartz-mica beard formation. In the second stage ( \ ge s >0.70 ), further rotation is statistically minor, the mechanisms just mentioned become more common, and recrystallization becomes an important response of the crystal to the deformation. At strains where \ ge s > 1.25 ( + \ ge 1 ⩾ 110%, − \ ge 3 ⩾ 60% ), the metamorphic products of deformed and recrystallized primary crystals tend to become smeared out in the cleavage plane. The effects of pressure solution can be seen in the deformation of primary crystals (beard formation, etc.) and in the response of some of the more dense lithic lapilli. It is also relatively well-developed in a few specimens which are crystal-rich. In general, however, it plays a minor role relative to the other mechanisms described.
Scaling silicon photonic switch fabrics for data center interconnection networks

With the rapidly increasing aggregate bandwidth requirements of data centers there is a growing interest in the insertion of optically interconnected networks with high-radix transparent optical switch fabrics. Silicon photonics is a particularly promising and applicable technology due to its small footprint, CMOS compatibility, high bandwidth density, and the potential for nanosecond scale dynamic connectivity. In this paper we analyze the feasibility of building silicon photonic microring based switch fabrics for data center scale optical interconnection networks. We evaluate the scalability of a microring based switch fabric for WDM signals. Critical parameters including crosstalk, insertion loss and switching speed are analyzed, and their sensitivity with respect to device parameters is examined. We show that optimization of physical layer parameters can reduce crosstalk and increase switch fabric scalability. Our analysis indicates that with current state-of-the-art devices, a high radix 128 × 128 silicon photonic single chip switch fabric with tolerable power penalty is feasible. The applicability of silicon photonic microrings for data center switching is further supported via review of microring operations and control demonstrations. The challenges and opportunities for this technology platform are discussed.
Pretreatment regional brain glucose uptake in the midbrain on PET may predict remission from a major depressive episode after three months of treatment

In order to test the hypotheses that pretreatment metabolic activity in the midbrain and the rostral anterior cingulate may predict remission in response to medications enhancing monoaminergic transmission, we compared relative regional cerebral metabolic rate of glucose (rCMRglu) using positron emission tomography (PET) in medication-free patients with major depression who remitted after 3 months of monoaminergic medication, with non-remitters on the same treatment. [(18)F]-FDG PET was conducted in a group of 33 drug-free DSM-IV major depression subjects prior to antidepressant treatment. Patients were prescribed paroxetine initially (61%) unless they had failed paroxetine previously. Treatment was then managed by the subjects' own physician with 91% receiving a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and 78% another non-selective monoamine reuptake inhibitor during the 3 months of treatment. Voxel-based parametric brain maps of remitters were compared with maps of non-remitters using SPM2. Remission was defined as a >50% decrease in and a final score of <or=10 on the 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. We found that treatment remitters have lower activity in a single contiguous brain region (with global maxima in the midbrain, cluster level P=0.013, corrected for multiple comparison (CMC)), prior to treatment, compared with non-remitters to 3 months of community-based monoaminergic antidepressant treatment. Degree of improvement correlated with pretreatment midbrain activity. Pretreatment clinical picture and intensity of treatment did not distinguish remitters. No other area of the brain showed a significant difference between remitters and non-remitters even with CMC completely disabled. Lower relative regional brain activity in the region of monoaminergic nuclei prior to treatment predicts remission in response to 3 months of antidepressant treatment, despite no clinical differences at baseline and no difference in treatment intensity. Brain imaging is a potential objective laboratory technique that may guide treatment selection where clinical methods have not shown promise. Prospective studies are needed to replicate these findings and determine whether outcome prediction is limited to a specific class of antidepressants.
The effect of ATP-sensitive K+ channels on the electrical burst activity and insulin secretion in pancreatic β-cells

In recent years, the electrical burst activity of the insulin releasing pancreatic β-cells has attracted many experimentalists and theoreticians, largely because of its functional importance, but also because of the nonlinear nature of the burst activity. The ATP-sensitive K+ channels are believed to play an important role in electrical activity and insulin release. In this paper, we show by computer simulation how ATP and antidiabetic drugs can lengthen the plateau fraction of bursting and how these chemicals can increase the intracellular Ca2+ level in the pancreatic β-cell.
Hepatotoxicity of prolonged methotrexate therapy for rheumatoid arthritis.

Sixty patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA), who were being treated with methotrexate (MTX) (mean duration of therapy, 48 months; mean weekly dosage, 8.67 mg), underwent liver biopsy performed to assess hepatic toxicity. Liver biopsies of 25 comparably severe RA patients not receiving MTX served as controls. All pathologic findings were grades I and II. Fatty infiltration was present in 50% of patients treated with MTX and 44% of controls. Fatty liver occurred more frequently in older patients and in consumers of alcohol. Round-cell portal inflammatory infiltrates were present in 18% of patients treated with MTX and 20% of controls, more frequently if Sjogren’s syndrome was present. No portal fibrosis (grade III) was found, but fibrous expansion of portal zones (grade II) was noted in 1 patient treated with MTX (1.7%) with Sjogren’s syndrome. At these low dosages, MTX exerts a minor and clinically unimportant hepatotoxic effect during two to eight years of chronic maintenance therapy.
Robotic partial nephrectomy with intracorporeal renal hypothermia using ice slush.

Objective To outline our technique for intracorporeal cooling with ice slush during robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN), with real-time parenchymal temperature monitoring. Materials and Methods Eleven consecutive patients with enhancing solid renal masses suitable for treatment with RPN between September 2013 and January 2014 were included in the analysis. Institutional review board approval and informed consent were obtained. Preoperative patient characteristics, intraoperative surgical parameters including patient body temperature and ipsilateral kidney temperature with real-time monitoring, and short-term functional outcomes were analyzed. Results Median age was 55 years (range, 39-75 years) and American Society of Anesthesiologists score was 3 (range, 2-4). Median tumor size was 4 cm (range, 2.3-7.1) and RENAL nephrometry score was 9 (range, 5-11). One patient had a solitary kidney. During cooling, the lowest median renal parenchymal temperature was 17.05°C (range, 11°C-26°C) and cold ischemia time was 27.17 minutes (range, 18-49 minutes). Median time to latest postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate was 12 days (range, 2-30 days). Median glomerular filtration rate preservation was 81% (range, 47.9%-126%). There was one positive margin. There were no postoperative complications, and no patients experienced a prolonged ileus. The limitations of this study include a small number of patients and short-term follow-up. Conclusion RPN with renal hypothermia using intracorporeal ice slush is technically feasible. Our simplified method of introducing the ice slush was free of complications and highly reproducible. The use of a needle temperature probe allowed us to monitor in real time cooling of the renal parenchyma.
Operational model for planning the harvest and distribution of perishable agricultural products

Abstract This paper presents an operational model that generates short term planning decisions for the fresh produce industry. In particular, the application developed helps the grower to maximize his revenues by making production and distribution decisions during the harvest season. The main motivation for this model comes from the fact that the profitability of producers is highly dependent on the handling of short term planning in the harvest season. Some of the factors affecting profitability include the management of labor costs, the preservation of the value of perishable crops, and the use transportation modes that provide the best trade-off between time (quality of products) and cost. These issues are interrelated, and their judicious management is fundamental for attaining good financial results. The results of the proposed planning model indicate that significant savings can be obtained by managing the trade-off of the freshness at the delivery of the product with the added labor and transportation cost at the grower's side. Moreover the results also show that dynamic, information based, management practices might be preferred over traditional practices based in fixed labor allocation and distribution practices.
Inclusive π0 and η production from 100 GeV/c π±p collisions in the triple regge region

Results are given for inclusive π0 and η production in 100 GeV/c π±p collisions. The data cover the large x ≳ 0.7 region and are compared in detail with the predictions of triple Regge theory. These reactions are theoretically clean with ϱ(π0 production) or A2(η production) exchange. We extract the Regge trajectories, α(t), in the t range of 0 to −4 (GeV/c)2. We find good agreement with the determination from π−p → (π0, η) n at low −t while for large −t ≳ 1.5 (GeV/c)2, the value of α becomes approximately −0.5, independent of t. We see evidence for the wrong signature nonsense zero of the ϱ at t ⋍ −0.4 (GeV/c)2 in the π0 production data. In agreement with simple Regge theory, there is no structure in the η production data at this t value.
Effects of prepubertal handling on shock-induced fighting and ACTH in male and female rats.

Abstract Rats which received either handling from Days 1–14 (EH) or 22–35 (LH) of life or no handling (NH) were tested in the shock-induced fighting situation in adulthood. Ten males and 10 females from each group were either paired for fighting (F), shocked singly (S), or received no shock (N) in the test chamber for 4.5 min in 3 sessions given 48 hr apart. Immediately after the third test session, trunk blood was obtained for determination of plasma ACTH concentrations. Males and females did not differ with respect to fighting frequency in response to shock, but males displayed the fighting posture substantially more than did females. Rats handled either preweaning (EH) or postweaning (LH) fought more often at the two lower shock intensities (0.5 and 1.3 mA) than did nonhandled controls (NH). The incidence of fighting positions did not differ as a function of prior handling. In all groups but one, the pattern of ACTH response to the different test conditions coincided with previous reports: higher levels of ACTH were found in response to shock alone than in response to fighting plus shock, and the lowest levels were found in the nonshocked controls. In the exceptional group, the NH males (but not females), there was a nondiscriminatory ACTH response to the S and F test conditions. The effects of prior handling are discussed in terms of an enhanced coping ability. The results point to the importance of comparing both pre- and postweaning groups when studying the handling phenomenon.
The emission spectum of p-N,N-dimethylaminobenzonitrile

Abstract A self-consistent reaction field (SCRF) method is used to calculate the absorption and emission spectra of p -N,N-dimethylaminobenzonitrile (DMABN) and 6-cyanobenzquinuclidine (CBQ) in different solvents. The dual fluorescene of DMABN is discussed in terms of internal twisting of the excited state as well as in terms of N-inversion of the dimethylamino group. The results indicate that the N-inversion mechanism cannot explain the dual fluorescence without a twisting of the dimethylamino group.
Environmental and Kinetic Parameters for Cr(VI) Bioreduction by a Bacterial Monoculture Purified from Cr(VI)-Resistant Consortium

Hexavalent chromium, Cr(VI), is toxic to living systems. Widespread contamination of water and soil by Cr(VI) present a serious public health problem. Chromium-resistant bacteria can reduce and detoxify Cr(VI). Twelve bacteria resistant to high concentrations of Cr(VI) were isolated from soil enrichment cultures. Environmental parameters and kinetic parameters of Cr(VI) bioreduction by one monoculture isolate, identified by 16S rRNA gene sequence as Bacillus sp. PB2, were studied. The optimal temperature for growth and Cr(VI) reduction was 35 degrees C. The isolate grew luxuriantly and substantially reduced Cr(VI) at initial pH 7.5 to 9. Maximal Cr(VI) bioreduction occurred at initial pH 8.0. Substantial Cr(VI) bioreduction was observed in salt media, but removal efficiency was inversely related to salt concentration (1-9%). Michaelis-Menten hyperbolic equation and the Lineweaver-Burk double reciprocal plot were comparatively employed to determine the k (m) and V (max) of Cr(VI) bioreduction. A k (m) of 82.5 microg mL(-1) and V (max) of 7.78 microg mL(-1) h(-1) were calculated by nonlinear regression analysis of the hyperbola curve. Linear regression analysis of the double reciprocal plot revealed k (m) and V (max) of 80.9 microg mL(-1) and 10.6 microg mL(-1) h(-1), respectively. Time course studies displayed about 90% reduction of Cr(VI) at an initial concentration of 8,000 microg L(-1) in 8 h, with an estimated t (1/2) of 4 h. Data from time course analysis of the rate of Cr(VI) bioreduction fitted zero-order model, and the kinetic constant k was calculated to be 840 microg L(-1) h(-1). The monoculture isolate, Bacillus sp. PB2, strongly reduces Cr(VI) and could be used for bioremediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated aquatic and terrestrial environments.
Carrying capacity of notched columns

Abstract Studies were conducted on notched and unnotched columns subjected to axial compressive loading. The objective was to determine the effects of cracks of different depths and root radii on the maximum load carrying capacity of long and short columns with notches on one side and on opposite sides. Results indicate that the maximum load carrying capacity of eccentrically loaded columns having slenderness ratios less than 250 may be reduced significantly, particularly when these columns contain fatigue cracks or notches with a root radius smaller than 0.003 in.
From Here to Clare: Yearnings of a Scholar-Turned-Dad

I've long considered questions of wholeness, meaning, and purpose in life, at least for 58 good years. As a college student in the 1960s, I considered such concerns much more important than making the grade or getting a job. It was much easier to ask, “What do you believe and value?” than “What will you do with that degree?”. That's probably why I chose to teach junior high school for two years following graduation. There were always lots of openings, and what else could I have done with a degree in French literature, wrapped around the study of philosophy and classical languages? I had never really considered what I was to do with all that.