cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimum detection in dual-channel Gaussian data with localized interference

This paper derives a likelihood-ratio detector for bivariate time-series data having target- and correlated non-target-bearing components with randomly distributed, single-cell spike noise in one or both channels. After defining the detection problem explicitly, the detector is constructed as an analytic expression. A specific implementation of the approach is presented using a bivariate first-order autoregressive model for the correlation structure of the data. A computer model for the detector is constructed, and results using simulated data verify the usefulness of the approach in removing strong pike noise without damage to the target signal.
Chapter 8 – Capacitance, Dielectric Constant and Doping Quantum Dots

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses quantum capacitance, size-dependent dielectric function, and doping of a quantum dot. They are all different in the quantum regime. The main difference in quantum capacitance from its classical definition is the fact that there is no such thing as storage of charge alone and the charge of the electron is discrete. As per the formulation, one electron in the ground state of a sphere is only the ground state of a hydrogen-like state, and two electrons are the ground state of a helium-like state. The chapter presents that taking into account the discreteness of electronic charge the classical capacitance is quite different when there are only a few electrons. Only when the number of electrons is large does the discreteness of the electronic charge cease to exhibit new features. When the size is below a couple of nanometers, quantum mechanically the kinetic energy of the stored electrons becomes dominant over the electrostatic stored energy. Pauli's exclusion principle plays an additional role in quantum capacitance. The size-dependent dielectric function is not defined according to the usual definition, because of the loss of the global nature. The reduction of the dielectric constant at sizes approaching a couple of nanometers drastically reduces the dopant binding energy from 13.6 eV for the hydrogen atom to ∼ 1 eV. In other words, all quantum dots a couple of nanometers in size are intrinsic even the dopant happens to be inside a quantum dot.
Public Service Ethics, 2nd Edition: A Review: By James S. Bowman and Jonathan P. West, New York, NY: Routledge, 2018

Several texts exist that address ethics for public administrators and other public service professionals. This newest edition of Public Service Ethics represents an important contribution to this b...
Identification of adolescents and young adults' preferences and priorities for future cancer treatment using a novel decision-making tool

Background Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer receive high-intensity care and experience significant symptoms at the end of life. As novel cancer-directed therapies increase, AYAs with advanced cancer may face multiple treatment options, each with unique risk/benefit profiles. To augment the AYAs' voice in the decision-making process, we developed MyPref, an adaptive conjoint analysis-based tool. Procedure We conducted a three-staged pilot study of MyPref utilizing an exploratory intervention mixed methods design. AYAs and their identified parent or trusted person (PTP) completed MyPref and received a summary of their preferences for nine treatment-related factors. Participants later engaged in semi-structured interviews to further explore their experience with MyPref. Responses to free text questions and interviews were analyzed using qualitative techniques. Results Fifteen AYAs with advanced cancer and seven PTPs participated in the pilot. While most participants identified time until cancer grows, quality of life, and side effects to be the most important factors when considering a future treatment, preferences were highly varied. Notably, MyPref-calculated preferences differed from initial rank order, and participants indicated that calculated preferences were accurate in follow-up interviews. Conclusion The MyPref-calculated preferences varied by individual and differed from initial rank ordering. Additionally, there was variability in how individuals defined and prioritized treatment-related factors. This novel tool may be a useful way to engage AYAs and their PTPs in discussions around preferences for treatment and prepare AYAs for future decision making. We plan to evaluate this tool longitudinally to evaluate the impact on actual treatment decisions.
Sovereign credit ratings and central banks: Why do analysts pay attention to institutions?

This paper studies the effect of the governance of modern central banks on the ratings assigned by the credit rating agencies Standard and Poor's and Moody's. Until recently, the rating process was not public. Even still, the factors or precise methodologies used by the agencies remain uncertain and analyst judgment remains important. We argue that, given uncertainty over the future paths of countries, the quality of the central bank governance serves as a useful heuristic for a stable and favorable country trajectory. In particular, the central bank's independence signals that the government is committed to general macroeconomic stability, including debt repayment. Additionally, central bank transparency clarifies who is the principal of the bank and provides information about how the central bank understands the economy and monetary policy. Finally, tensions between the central bank and the government, as reflected by irregular turnover of central bank governors, raise doubts about countries’ future prospects. Empirically, we use a variety of models, including mediation analysis, to ensure that the effect we identify stems from the central bank governance itself, as a heuristic for the future paths of countries, and not the central bank's direct contribution to the macroeconomy, as reflected in the available data.
Perspective: Defining Carbohydrate Quality for Human Health and Environmental Sustainability

Plant foods are universally promoted for their links to improved human health, yet carbohydrate-containing foods are often maligned based on isolated, reductionist methods that fail to assess carbohydrate foods as a matrix of nutrients and food components. Currently accepted positive carbohydrate quality indices include plant food, whole-grain content, and dietary fiber, while negative health outcomes are linked to high intakes of added sugar and high glycemic index. More recently, negative health aspects have been linked to ultra-processed foods, which are often high in carbohydrates. Yet, carbohydrate staples such as grains and dairy products are both enriched and fortified, resulting in these carbohydrate foods containing important nutrients of concern such as dietary fiber, potassium, vitamin D, and calcium. This Perspective analyzes carbohydrate metrics used in dietary guidance and labeling and finds limitations in accepted indices included in standardized quality carbohydrate definitions and also proposes additional indices to benefit both human and environmental health. As nutrition recommendations shift away from a single-nutrient focus to a more holistic dietary pattern approach that is flexible and adaptable for each individual, it is necessary to determine the quality components that make up these patterns. This review concludes that current approaches that demonize staple carbohydrate foods do little to promote the recommended patterns of foods known to improve health status and reduce disease risk.
Supraprophylactic Anti-Factor Xa Levels Are Associated with Major Bleeding in Neurosurgery Patients Receiving Prophylactic Enoxaparin.

Background Prior studies demonstrated reduced risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in neurosurgical patients secondary to prophylaxis with both heparin and low-molecular-weight heparin. The ability to monitor low-molecular-weight heparin by obtaining anti–factor Xa (anti-Xa) serum levels provides an opportunity to evaluate safety and efficacy. The aim of this study was to describe characteristics of patients who have anti-Xa levels outside of the goal range (0.2–0.4/0.5 IU/mL) and investigate incidence of major bleeding and VTE. Methods A single-center, retrospective, observational study was conducted on neurosurgical patients receiving enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis between August 2019 and December 2020. Significance testing was conducted via Fisher exact test and independent samples t test. Results The study included 85 patients. Patients were less likely to have an anti-Xa level in the goal range if they were male, had a higher weight, or were morbidly obese. Three neuroendovascular patients (3.5%) experienced a major bleed. Serum anti-Xa levels were significantly higher in patients who experienced major bleeds compared with patients who did not (0.45 ± 0.16 IU/mL vs. 0.28 ± 0.09 IU/mL, P = 0.003). Patients with a supraprophylactic anti-Xa level (>0.5 IU/mL) were more likely to experience a major bleed (P = 0.005). One VTE event occurred: the patient experienced a pulmonary embolism with anti-Xa level at goal. Conclusions Anti-Xa–guided enoxaparin dosing for VTE prophylaxis in neurosurgical patients may help prevent major bleeding. These data suggest that a higher anti-Xa level may predispose patients to major bleeding. Further evaluation is needed to identify the goal anti-Xa level for VTE prophylaxis in this population.
Identification of Female Cells in Postcoital Penile Swabs Using Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization Application in Sexual Assault

c Traditionally, the finding of semen, that is, spermatozoa and acid phosphatase, in cervicovaginal specimens has been considered the laboratory evidence needed to prove recent sexual contact. Recent research with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) has shown that in the absence of semen, male epithelial and inflammatory cells can be found within the female genital tract. A striking paucity of literature exists pertaining to the examination of the penis of an alleged assailant for potential evidence indicative of sexual assault. The current study uses FISH to analyze postcoital swabs of the penis for such laboratory evidence. A male and female volunteer couple consented to participate in this study. Following coitus, the male partner presented to one of the investigators for penile swabbing. Swabs were taken at varying postcoital intervals (1‐24 hours) subsequent to 10 coital episodes. The male participant was instructed not to shower following coitus, but to otherwise go about daily activities until specimen collection. To obtain each sample, 4 sterile cotton-tipped applicators were slightly moistened in sterile saline and swabbed along the length of the penile shaft and around the base of the penis. From the swabs, 3 air-dried slides were prepared, coded, and blinded. As controls, swabs were taken from the buccal surfaces of both volunteers. Multicolor FISH was performed using dual X- and Y-chromosome probes, and slides were counterstained with 49-6diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI). Cells were easily visualized under a fluorescent microscope, but only cells with 2 nonoverlapping fluorescent signals were counted. Fluorescence in situ hybridization is highly sensitive and specific, and the dual probes easily distinguished between male and female cells. Female cells were identified on smears from every penile swab over the entire 1- to 24hour postcoital interval. The FISH technique, previously successful in identifying male cells within the female genital tract, may also be employed on penile swabs. Once the presence of female cells is confirmed by FISH, the identity of the female can be confirmed by DNA analysis. Potentially, with such current molecular analyses, both the assailant and the victim can be positively identified. (Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2000;124:1080‐1082)
COVID-19 Hepatic Illness

The hepatic effects of COVID-19 are relatively mild when compared to other organs such as the lungs and heart. Mild transaminase elevations are commonly seen in greater than 50% of patients with moderate to severe disease. Based on current data, it is unclear if patients with preexisting liver disease (NASH/NAFLD) are at higher risk of mortality due to COVID-19. It does appear, however, that those with cirrhosis have an increased risk of severe disease and tend to have a more complicated hospital course. Patients with previous liver transplantation should continue their immunosuppressive medications and see their doctor regularly. Current therapies aimed at the treatment of COVID-19 have been associated with hepatotoxicity including tocilizumab, lopinavir-ritonavir, and remdesivir and require monitoring for such side effects.
The Finite Difference Time Domain Method for Electromagnetics: With MATLAB Simulations

This book introduces the powerful Finite-Difference Time-Domain method to students and interested researchers and readers. An effective introduction is accomplished using a step-by-step process that builds competence and confidence in developing complete working codes for the design and analysis of various antennas and microwave devices. This book will serve graduate students, researchers, and those in industry and government who are using other electromagnetics tools and methods for the sake of performing independent numerical confirmation. No previous experience with finite-difference methods is assumed of readers.
TU-G-BRD-02: Automated Systematic Quality Assurance Program for Radiation Oncology Information System Upgrades

Purpose: To: (1) describe an independent, automated, systematic software-based protocol for verifying clinical data accuracy/integrity for mitigation of data corruption/loss risks following radiation oncology information system (ROIS) upgrades; and (2) report on application of this approach in an academic/community practice environment. Methods: We propose a robust approach to perform quality assurance on the ROIS after an upgrade, targeting four data sources: (1) ROIS relational database; (2) ROIS DICOM interface; (3) ROIS treatment machine data configuration; and (4) ROIS-generated clinical reports. We investigated the database schema for differences between pre-/post-upgrade states. Paired DICOM data streams for the same object (such as RT-Plan/Treatment Record) were compared between pre-/post-upgrade states for data corruption. We examined machine configuration and related commissioning data files for changes and corruption. ROIS-generated treatment appointment and treatment parameter reports were compared to ensure patient encounter and treatment plan accuracy. This protocol was supplemented by an end-to-end clinical workflow test to verify essential ROI functionality and integrity of components interfaced during patient care chain of activities. We describe the implementation of this protocol during a Varian ARIA system upgrade at our clinic. Results: We verified 1,638 data tables with 2.4 billion data records. For 222 under-treatment patients, 605 DICOM RT plans and 13,480 DICOM treatment records retrieved from the ROIS DICOM interface were compared, with no differences in fractions, doses delivered, or treatment parameters. We identified 82 new data tables and 78 amended/deleted tables consistent with the upgrade. Reports for 5,073 patient encounters over a 2-week horizon were compared and were identical to those before the upgrade. Content in 12,237 xml machine files was compared, with no differences identified. Conclusion: An independent QA/validation approach for ROIS upgrades was developed and implemented at our clinic. The success of this approach ensures a robust QA of ROIS upgrades without manual paper/electronic checks and associated intensive labor.
By-Product Lobbying: Was Stigler Right?

Olson (1965) argues that some large groups can overcome the free-rider problem through by-product lobbying. The by-product firm sells a private good to potential members of the interest group and finances lobbying with its profits. George Stigler (1974) argued that by-product lobbying firms cannot survive competition with for-profit firms, since this would compete away monopoly rents, leaving the firm unable to lobby. Pecorino (2001) showed that by-product firms can survive in a monopolistically competitive market structure if they use their profits to provide a pure public good. In this paper, I show that by-product lobbying will fail if the public good provided by the firm exhibits even a small degree of rivalry, and the group size is sufficiently large. This suggests that Stigler is right in the circumstances under which by-product lobbying is most relevant.
Agent-Based Supply Chain Integration

Supply chain management represents a critical competency in today's fast-paced, global business environment. However, in the current transition from EDI to Web-based supply chain technologies, much of the capability for process integration is being lost. And the integration of buyer and seller supply chain processes is critical for speed and responsiveness in today's hypercompetitive product and service markets. Intelligent agent technology offers the potential to overcome many limitations of current supply chain technologies. This paper presents intelligent supply chain agents that represent and autonomously conduct business on behalf of product users, buyers and vendors. We classify and present numerous extant agent applications and extend a technological framework to compare and contrast intelligent agents with other classes of information technology. We then describe an agent-based supply chain process design, along with its developmental techniques, and the structure and behavior of an agent federation used for integration in a major enterprise. We present results of this exploratory research in terms of technical feasibility and process performance in the enterprise context. This work is novel in that it integrates process-level knowledge from operational enterprises with distributed agent technologies. And it makes a contribution by demonstrating how agent-based supply chain integration can be effected along a large-scale, operational, inter-organizational process.
Impact of the CYP2C8 *3 polymorphism on the drug-drug interaction between gemfibrozil and pioglitazone.

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT • A drug–drug interaction exists between gemfibrozil (CYP2C8 inhibitor) and pioglitazone (CYP2C8 substrate), whereby gemfibrozil increases pioglitazone plasma exposure. Substantial interindividual variability exists in the pharmacokinetic magnitude of this drug–drug interaction. • CYP2C8*3 is associated with increased metabolism and decreased plasma exposure of pioglitazone. • Polymorphisms in CYP metabolizing enzyme genes, namely CYP2C19 and CYP2D6, have been shown to influence the magnitude of inhibitory drug–drug interactions. However, the extent to which CYP2C8 polymorphisms (e.g. CYP2C8*3) affect the interaction between gemfibrozil and pioglitazone is not known. WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS • The CYP2C8*3 allele influences pharmacokinetic variability in the drug–drug interaction between gemfibrozil and pioglitazone. CYP2C8*3 carriers experienced a larger relative increase in pioglitazone plasma exposure following gemfibrozil administration than wild-type homozygotes. • Consideration should be given to the contribution of polymorphic CYP2C8 alleles to interindividual variability in the pharmacokinetic magnitude of CYP2C8-mediated drug–drug interactions. AIM The objective of this study was to determine the extent to which the CYP2C8*3 allele influences pharmacokinetic variability in the drug–drug interaction between gemfibrozil (CYP2C8 inhibitor) and pioglitazone (CYP2C8 substrate). METHODS In this randomized, two phase crossover study, 30 healthy Caucasian subjects were enrolled based on CYP2C8*3 genotype (n= 15, CYP2C8*1/*1; n= 15, CYP2C8*3 carriers). Subjects received a single 15 mg dose of pioglitazone or gemfibrozil 600 mg every 12 h for 4 days with a single 15 mg dose of pioglitazone administered on the morning of day 3. A 48 h pharmacokinetic study followed each pioglitazone dose and the study phases were separated by a 14 day washout period. RESULTS Gemfibrozil significantly increased mean pioglitazone AUC(0,∞) by 4.3-fold (P < 0.001) and there was interindividual variability in the magnitude of this interaction (range, 1.8- to 12.1-fold). When pioglitazone was administered alone, the mean AUC(0,∞) was 29.7% lower (P= 0.01) in CYP2C8*3 carriers compared with CYP2C8*1 homozygotes. The relative change in pioglitazone plasma exposure following gemfibrozil administration was significantly influenced by CYP2C8 genotype. Specifically, CYP2C8*3 carriers had a 5.2-fold mean increase in pioglitazone AUC(0,∞) compared with a 3.3-fold mean increase in CYP2C8*1 homozygotes (P= 0.02). CONCLUSION CYP2C8*3 is associated with decreased pioglitazone plasma exposure in vivo and significantly influences the pharmacokinetic magnitude of the gemfibrozil–pioglitazone drug-drug interaction. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the impact of CYP2C8 genetics on the pharmacokinetics of other CYP2C8-mediated drug–drug interactions.
Starkiller: A Static Type Inferencer and Compiler for Python

Starkiller is a type inferencer and compiler for the dynamic language Python designed to generate fast native code. It analyzes Python source programs and converts them into equivalent C++ programs. Starkiller’s type inference algorithm is based on the Cartesian Product Algorithm but has been significantly modified to support a radically different language. It includes an External Type Description Language that enables extension authors to document how their foreign code extensions interact with Python. This enables Starkiller to analyze Python code that interacts with foreign code written in C, C++, or Fortran. The type inference algorithm also handles data polymorphism in addition to parametric polymorphism, thus improving precision. Starkiller supports the entire Python language except for dynamic code insertion features such as eval and dynamic module loading. While the system is not yet complete, early numeric benchmarks show that Starkiller compiled code performs almost as well as hand made C code and substantially better than alternative Python compilers. Thesis Supervisor: Jonathan Bachrach Title: Research Scientist
Mining Non-redundant Reclassification Rules

The increased competition faced by today's companies can wield data mining tools to extract actionable knowledge and then use it as a weapon to outmaneuver competitors and boost revenue. Mining reclassification rules is a way to model actionable patterns directly from a given data set. The previous work on reclassification rule mining has shown that they are effective when variables are weakly correlated. However, when the data set is correlated, some redundant rules are in the result set. This problem becomes critical for discovering rules in correlated data which may have long frequent factor-sets. In this paper, we investigate properties of reclassification rules and offer a new method to discovery a set of non-redundant reclassification rules without information loss.
Geodetic Measurement of Deformation East of the San Andreas Fault in Central California

Triangulation and trilateration data from two geodetic networks located between the western edge of the Great Valley and the San Andreas fault have been used to calculate shear strain rates in the Diablo Range and to estimate the slip rate along the Calaveras and Paicines faults in Central California. Within the Diablo Range the average shear strain rate was determined for the time period between 1962 and 1982 to be 0.15 + or - 0.08 microrad/yr, with the orientation of the most compressive strain at N 16 deg E + or - 14 deg. The orientation of the principal compressive strain predicted from the azimuth of the major structures in the region is N 25 deg E. It is inferred that the measured strain is due to compression across the folds of this area: the average shear straining corresponds to a relative shortening rate of 4.5 + or - 2.4 mm/yr. From an examination of wellbore breakout orientations and the azimuths of P-axes from earthquake focal mechanisms the inferred orientation of maximum compressive stress was found to be similar to the direction of maximum compressive strain implied by the trend of local fold structures. Results do not support the hypothesis of uniform fault-normal compression within the Coast Ranges. From trilateration measurements made between 1972 and 1987 on lines that are within 10 km of the San Andreas fault, a slip rate of 10 to 12 mm/yr was calculated for the Calaveras-Paicines fault south of Hollister. The slip rate of the Paicines fault decreases to 4 mm/yr near Bitter.
Short-term options: clienteles, market segmentation, and event trading

Abstract We compare clientele and information share in weekly- (Weeklys) and monthly-expiring options (Monthlys) on the S&P 500 index. Striking dissimilarities between the two instruments are found, most apparent being the much smaller trade size and substantially higher implied volatility in Weeklys, consistent with both speculation and event trading. Additionally, the price discovery contribution of Weeklys, albeit modest when compared to the underlying index itself, is substantially larger than that of Monthlys. The cumulative evidence points to an increasingly segmented options market. Thus, studies employing only standard options to investigate price discovery will likely underestimate the informational role of options.
Tribology In Chemical-Mechanical Planarization

Chemical–mechanical planarization (CMP) is one of the most important process steps in making integrated circuits. Tribology plays significant roles in material removal, polishing, and planarization. This chapter provides an introduction to CMP and discusses evolution, roles, and effects of tribology in this important industrial process. Tantalum and copper CMP are discussed here as two examples in understanding mechanisms of CMP.
A Study of Altitude and Flight Path Angle Dynamics for a Singularly Perturbed Fuel Optimization Problem

This short paper will demonstrate that the separation of altitude and flight path angle dynamics using singular perturbation techniques for a transport fuel optimization problem results in an unacceptable oscillation in altitude. A technique for damping this oscillation by adding a penalty term to the cost function for the optimization probles will be discussed. This technique will be compared with a different approach that linearizes the altitude and flight path angle boundary layers.
The Scarcity Syndrome

that may affect us profoundly in years ahead. After half a century of conventional wisdom that the farm problem was one of surplus, today's perception is that the problem is shortage. I call this the "scarcity syndrome." It has seeped into farmer attitudes, economic analyses, and legislation. It has helped escalate farmland prices and the demand for credit. It will probably profoundly affect commodity programs during the 1980s. We are not sufficiently aware of the far-reaching effects of this new attitude. In this note I examine the scarcity syndrome-its validity and effects.
Stability Analysis of Three-Agent Consensus Dynamics With Fixed Topology and Three Non-Identical Delays

In this paper, we consider a strongly connected three-agent consensus dynamics with three non-identical communication delays, where each delay arises between a pair of agents. Asymptotic stability of consensus mission is of question in presence of delays, and to study this we propose a new and computationally efficient technique that detects stability transitions with respect to delays. This new technique originates from frequency sweeping ideas and ultimately leads to stability robustness maps of the system with respect to three delays. Proofs related to the analysis are sketched. A case study is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach and the trade-off between controller gains versus delays.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Book review by Jeffrey A. Schaler of Richard E. Vatz’s, The Only Authentic Book of Persuasion: The Salience-Agenda/Meaning-Spin Model Second Edition/Revised (Dubuque, Iowa: KendallHunt, July 2013 edition) 102 pages. ISBN-10: 0757590578; ISBN-13: 978-0757590573 Product Dimensions: 7.2 × 9 inches $37.99

The meaning of a situation—indeed the constructing of “situations” for people’s attention—is not determined by external reality, but is something fought over verbally in the course of interacting rhetorical pronouncements. Perception, the analysis and interpretation of sensory data, is an active, meaning-making process, not a passive one. What we perceive and claim is reality is a strategic effort to create agendas and spins for chosen audiences. This is what passes for “reality” in politics, psychology and everyday life. Thus, humans are moral agents who create reality for good and base motives. Per psychological persuasion policymakers and psychologists often assert that mental illness and addiction not only exist but are treatable in the way that literal diseases exist and are treatable. Those are both myths, constructed, and destructed, by influential speaking and writing, through persuasion, and, we hope, not through coercion.
After coronary thrombolysis and reperfusion, what next?

Abstract Thrombolytic therapy for the removal of intravascular thrombi was introduced when streptokinase was first given to humans 40 years ago, the same year the American College of Cardiology was founded. Streptokinase was first administered to patients with acute myocardial infarction in 1959. Today, thrombolytic therapy has been established to offer significant benefits to patients with acute myocardial infarction provided they are brought to medical attention early enough after the onset of symptoms. The two major agents, streptokinase and recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA), have been shown to result in reperfusion of infarct-related arteries, to salvage ischemic myocardium, to improve myocardial performance and to reduce mortality. In spite of these impressive gains, this novel therapy has shortcomings. The interval from the start of thrombolytic treatment to coronary reperfusion varies significantly from patient to patient and may, at times, be too long to produce a real benefit in terms of salvage of ischemic myocardium. The rate of reocclusion lies somewhere between 10% and 20% and appears not to be influenced by concomitant heparin anticoagulation. The rate of bleeding complications even with the “fibrin-specific” rt-PA is higher than anticipated and may range from 10% to 30%. As a consequence, intensive efforts are being directed at the development of improved thrombolytic agents and for adjunctive therapy evaluating better anticoagulants than heparin and better anti-platelet agents than aspirin. This review is a status report summarizing where we are in thrombolytic therapy in acute myocardial infarction, where we need to improve treatment results and what is being done mainly at the preclinical level to bring about such improvements.
Dynamic size perception as a function of target location in egocentric space

Two experiments were run in which subjects judged the sizes of stimuli that moved toward and away from them in total darkness by varying a comparison stimulus. In Experiment 1, the target was centered with respect to eye level in the first condition, extended upward from the eye level in the second condition, and extended downward from eye level in the third condition. The subjects were instructed to maintain a level gaze in all conditions. All targets changed in apparent size as a function of varying distance, but the type of change was contingent upon the egocentric location of the stimulus. In Experiment 2, the point at which subjects fixated the stimuli was manipulated. Varying fixation had no effect upon apparent visual size. These data were interpreted as supporting an egocentric explanation of size perception.
NaG: a sodium channel-like mRNA shared by Schwann cells and other neural crest derivatives.

NaG, a member of subfamily 2, was originally characterized as a “glial” sodium channel, and is expressed at high levels in Schwann cells in vivo. However, NaG has also been shown by in situ hybridization to be highly expressed in rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, which, like Schwann cells, are neural crest derivatives. In the present study, we used non-isotopic in situ hybridization with a riboprobe for NaG, in conjunction with RT-PCR, to determine whether NaG is expressed in tissues related to the DRG either by neural crest origin or sensory function. We found that the expression of significant levels of NaG mRNA was restricted to derivatives of the neural crest (neurons of DRG, trigeminal ganglion and mesencephalic nucleus of the trigeminal nerve, and Schwann and satellite cells); the absence of NaG from superior cervical ganglion neurons and adrenal medulla chromaffin cells indicates that not all neural crest derived neural elements express NaG. NaG was not observed in sensory neurons (retina, vestibular ganglion, spiral ganglion, olfactory epithelium) that are not of neural crest origin. Our results indicate that NaG mRNA is expressed not only in Schwann cells, but also in a spectrum of neuronal cell types with afferent function of neural crest origin. NaG thus appears to represent a transcript encoding a sodium channel or sodium channel-like protein that is uniquely expressed by both Schwann cells and afferent neurons of neural crest origin. GLIA 21:269–276, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Complement Preservation in Citrated Human Blood

Total hemolytic complement activity was measured periodically in citrated samples of whole human blood stored for three weeks under usual blood bank conditions. The loss of complement was gradual; an average of 97 per cent of the total activity remained after one week and 90 per cent after three weeks.
Nuclear and fuel cycle analysis for a fusion transmutation of waste reactor

Two metal fuel sub-critical fast reactor concepts, cooled by PbLi and PbBi, respectively, for a fusion transmutation of waste reactor are introduced. Analyses of the nuclear-thermal stability and potential for a criticality event in these reactors are discussed. The results of equilibrium nuclear fuel cycle analyses of these reactors and the impact of transmutation on the characteristics of radioactive waste in repositories are discussed.
Triterpenoid CDDO-Me Blocks the NF-κB Pathway by Direct Inhibition of IKKβ on Cys-179

The novel oleanane triterpenoid 2-cyano-3,12-dioxooleana-1,9,-dien-28-oic acid (CDDO) and the C-28 methyl ester (CDDO-Me) induce apoptosis of human tumor cells by disruption of redox balance and are currently in clinical trials. The present studies show that CDDO and CDDO-Me block tumor necrosis factorα-induced targeting of NF-κB p65 to the nucleus. CDDO-Me also blocked tumor necrosis factor α-induced phosphorylation of IκBα. In concert with these results, we found that CDDO-Me inhibits IκBα kinaseβ (IKKβ) activity in cells. In support of a direct mechanism, CDDO-Me inhibited recombinant IKKβ activity in vitro. The results also demonstrate that (i) CDDO and CDDO-Me form adducts with IKKβ, but not IKKβ with mutation of Cys-179 to Ala, and (ii) CDDO-Me inhibits IKKβ by a mechanism dependent on oxidation of Cys-179. These findings indicate that CDDO and CDDO-Me directly block IKKβ activity and thereby the NF-κB pathway by interacting with Cys-179 in the IKKβ activation loop.
Reflections on innovations in cognitive behavioral treatments of anxiety disorders

The articles in this special series present a broad array of creative applications of technology to the cognitive behavioral treatment of clients with anxiety disorders. From the innovative use of psychophysiological monitoring and cognitive assessment devices to the developing technology of palmtop computers and excursions into the futuristic realm of virtual reality, these technologies may enhance our reach into the world of our clients and increase our ability to help them overcome the anxieties that burden them. In this paper, we present our reactions to each paper and to the series as a whole.
Platelet kinetics during deep hypothermia.

Abstract The effects of surface-induced deep hypothermia (20°C) on platelets in terms of their disappearance and location during cooling, recovery with rewarming, and subsequent survival were studied in splenectomized dogs utilizing 51Chromium-tagged autologous platelets. The curves for platelet counts and 51Cr activity were similar with both falling to about 10% of control value at 20°C and both returning to control levels within 1 hr of rewarming. No important differences were observed in the platelet count curves in groups of animals with or without a spleen, with or without 1 2 hr of circulatory arrest, and with or without administration of low molecular weight dextran. The mean platelet survival after hypothermia was somewhat longer (4.9 days) than in normothermic control dogs (4.2 days). The site of hypothermic sequestration was determined by counting 51Cr activity in various organs in animals sacrificed at 20°C; virtually all of the sequestered platelets were found in the liver. This was verified by electron micrographs of the liver. The results indicate that the thrombocytopenia of surface-induced deep hypothermia is due to completely reversible temporary sequestration of platelets in the liver and that the mean survival of platelets exposed to this procedure is not shortened.
Effect of Experimental Influenza A Infection on the Nasal Response to Histamine Challenge in Allergic and Non-Allergic Subjects:

To determine if a viral upper respiratory tract infection can alter the responsiveness of the nasal mucosa, paired intranasal histamine challenge sessions were performed before and after (8 days) intranasal inoculation with influenza A virus in 16 nonallergic and 16 allergic subjects. The nasal response to a 1-mg histamine challenge was measured as symptom scores for rhinorrhea and congestion, counts for sneezing, weight for expelled secretions, and inspiratory conductance for nasal patency. After inoculation, a total of 25 subjects (11 allergic, 14 nonallergic) became infected with influenza A virus. In infected subjects the measured responses to histamine for secretion weight and rhinorrhea symptom score were significantly greater at 8 days postinfection when compared to those responses recorded prior to inoculation. No significant between session differences were observed for the other responses, or for any of the responses in the uninfected subjects. Significant differences between infected allergic a...
Investigation of buildup dose from electron contamination of clinical photon beams

The contribution made by contaminating electrons present in a clinical photon beam to the buildup dose in a polystyrene phantom has been calculated and compared to measurements. A Monte Carlo technique was employed. The calculation was divided into two parts. First, the accelerator treatment head was simulated in detail using the EGS--PEGS electromagnetic shower code. Then, information obtained from these calculations was used to compute dose curves in a polystyrene phantom. Two cases were considered, one in which both electrons and photons were incident upon the phantom, and another in which electrons were eliminated from the incident beam. Results of these calculations agree with recent experimental findings. A decrease in buildup dose as well as a shift in d/sub max/ was observed when electrons were eliminated from the beam.
Historical and theoretical perspectives: sex, love, and commitment revisited.

Abstract A sociology-of-knowledge perspective is used to examine the interplay among sex, love, and commitment within the context of historical trends and social changes. The implications of qualitative and quantitative differences among love, sex and commitment are discussed in relation to (1) the concept of “multiple selves,” (2) “individual variations in threshold levels,” and (3) the misuse of “ideal types.” Clinical and research efforts to differentiate among sex, love, and commitment need to be balanced by explicit awareness of the tendency to compartmentalize these three areas.
Covalent Modification of Protein Kinase C Isozymes by the Inactivating Peptide Substrate Analog N-Biotinyl-Arg-Arg-Arg-Cys-Leu-Arg-Arg-Leu EVIDENCE THAT THE BIOTINYLATED PEPTIDE IS AN ACTIVE-SITE AFFINITY LABEL

Abstract We recently reported that the peptide substrate analog Arg-Lys-Arg-Cys-Leu-Arg-Arg-Leu (RKRCLRRL) irreversibly inactivates the protein kinase C (PKC) isozymes α, β, and γ in a dithiothreitol-sensitive manner by an active site-directed mechanism. We hypothesized that the inactivation mechanism entailed covalent complex formation between the PKC isozyme and the inactivator peptide. In this report, N-biotinylated analogs of RKRCLRRL that inactivate Ca2+-dependent PKC activity were designed and tested for their ability to covalently label PKC isozymes. A purified PKC isozyme mixture (α, β, γ, ϵ, ζ) was incubated with the N-biotinylated peptides and then subjected to denaturing gel electrophoresis, transferred to nitrocellulose, and probed for avidin-reactive species. The Ca2+-dependent PKC subfamily members PKC-α, -β, and -γ comigrated at 82 kDa and were distinguished by isozyme-specific immunoprecipitation. N-Biotinyl-RRRCLRRL covalently labeled all of the isozymes examined. When the isozymes were denatured prior to incubation with the N-biotinylated peptides, no labeling was observed. Inactivation of the Ca2+-dependent PKC subfamily by the N-biotinylated peptides was associated with covalent labeling of the 82-kDa PKC subspecies. The concentration dependence curves observed with N-biotinyl-RRRCLRRL were similar for inactivation and covalent labeling. The rank order of potency of three N-biotinylated peptides was the same for the inactivation and covalent labeling. Both the inactivation and covalent labeling were dithiothreitol-sensitive, and they were each subject to protection by MgATP and a peptide substrate analog. The covalent label was mapped to the catalytic domain of PKC by limited proteolysis of the modified enzyme. These results provide evidence that the N-biotinylated inactivator peptides are active-site affinity labels of PKC. The inactivator peptides most likely function by S-thiolating the active-site Cys residue conserved in PKC. This is the first report to demonstrate covalent labeling of PKC by a peptide substrate analog.
On the Free and Forced Vibration of a Plate Supporting a Freely Sloshing Surface Liquid

Abstract The coupled equations of motion of plates carrying liquids, the free surfaces of which are parallel to the plate, are developed. The liquid is treated as incompressible, with free surface oscillations. For a simply supported rectangular plate, carrying liquid with reservoir conditions at its edges, a closed form solution of the natural frequencies and modes of the plate-liquid combination is developed. For each wavenumber set ( m, n ), two natural frequencies exist. The first corresponds to a liquid motion dominated natural mode, and the second, higher one to a plate motion dominated mode. The harmonic response of the plate-liquid system to a dynamic pressure distribution (and also point load) on the plate is expressed in terms of the orthogonal plate-liquid modes. Numerical examples are given.
NGF induction of the gene encoding the protease transin accompanies neuronal differentiation in PC12 cells.

Abstract Various proteases have been found to be released by the growth cones of developing neurons in culture and have been hypothesized to play a role in the process of axon elongation. We report here that nerve growth factor (NGF) induced the gene encoding the metalloprotease transin in PC12 cells with a time course coincident with the initial appearance of neurites by these cells. Acidic and basic fibroblast growth factors also stimulated transin mRNA expression and neurite outgrowth, whereas various other agents had no effects on either of these phenomena. In contrast, dexamethasone was found to inhibit the induction of transin mRNA when added with, or following, NGF treatment. Finally, we show that sequences contained within 750 by of the 5′ untranscribed region of the transin gene confer responsiveness to NGF and dexamethasone.
Comparative studies on the delignification of pine kraft-anthraquinone pulp with hydrogen peroxide by binucleus Mn(IV) complex catalysis.

Pine kraft−anthraquinone (kraft−AQ) pulp was bleached in alkaline solution with hydrogen peroxide catalyzed by either [L1Mn(IV)(μ-O)3Mn(IV)L1](PF6)2] (C1) or [LMn(IV)2(μ-O)3] (ClO4)2 (C2) at 60 and 80 °C for 120 min with a catalyst charge of 10 ppm on pulp. The resulting bleached pulp was hydrolyzed with cellulase to obtain insoluble and soluble residual lignins. The alkaline bleaching effluents were acidified to precipitate alkaline-soluble lignins. These lignin preparations were then characterized by 2D heteronuclear multiple-quantum coherence (HMQC) NMR spectroscopic techniques. The results showed that biphenyl (5-5) and stilbene structures of the residual lignin in the pulp are preferentially degraded in both the C1- and C2-catalyzed bleachings, whereas β-O-4, β-5, and β-β structures undergo degradation to a lesser extent. In both cases, the degradation of the residual lignin increased with the increase in reaction temperature from 60 to 80 °C. Thus, the result of C1-catalyzed delignification is not i...
Genetic identification of the DNA binding domain of Escherichia coli LexA protein

Two genetic approaches were taken to define the DNA binding domain of LexA protein, the repressor of the Escherichia coli SOS regulon. First, several dominant negative lexA mutants defective in DNA binding were isolated. The mutations altered amino acids in a region similar to the helix-turn-helix, a DNA binding domain of other repressors and DNA binding proteins. Second, the region encoding the predicted DNA recognition helix was subjected to oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis and mutant LexA proteins with altered or relaxed specificity for several recA operator positions were isolated. By examining the effects of a series of amino acid substitutions on repressor specificity, it was shown that a glutamic acid residue at position 45 in LexA protein is important for recognition of the first base pair (G.C) in the recA operator.
Vibrational spectra and structure of solid POCl3

Abstract The infrared spectrum. (200–4000 cm −1 ) of phosphoryl chloride, deposited and annealed in a low temperature cell, was examined with 0.3–0.6 cm −1 resolution Spectra of the molecules isolated in argon, carbon dioxide and methane at liquid helium temperatures were also obtained. Raman shifts of crystals at −190°C were measured with a laser Raman spectrometer. Orientation effects observed by deposition on CsI windows are discussed. The density of the solid was determined near the freezing point. Analysis of the band splittings and polarization, complemented by packing considerations, leads to D 16 2h as the most probable structure of crystalline POCl 3 .
Effect of Group versus Individual Feeding of Complete Rations on Feed Intake of Lactating Cows

Abstract Twenty-four lactating Guernsey cows were in a switchback trial to compare the effect of individual versus group feeding on feed intake and milk production. A blended ration of 60% corn silage, 40% concentrate (dry basis) was fed twice daily. Dry matter intakes of group-fed cows were 7% greater, an amount of digestible energy equivalent to 25% of the maintenance requirement. Actual milk and 4% fat-corrected milk production were not significantly different (P > .05) between treatments.
Comparison of 2D and 3D Fractal Distributions in Reservoir Simulations

Fractal geostatistics can be used to generate distributions of such reservoir properties as porosity and permeability. The authors compare three different methods that use these distributions in reservoir simulations. The first method is a hybrid finite-difference/stream-tube method that starts with 2D vertical cross sections with relatively fine grids, the second uses pseudo-relative permeabilities and also is based on 2D cross sections, and the third uses 3D distributions. A mature waterflood in a carbonate reservoir serves as a field test case.