cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Magnetic View of the Reaction Center

The understanding of natural photosynthesis has advanced steadily in the last twenty years such that the synthesis of artificial photo-electron transfer devices is now occurring. Even so, our understanding of the natural process of photosynthesis is far from complete. Magnetic resonance has played a crucial role in establishing the current understanding of the primary events of photosynthesis. EPR, ENDOR, RYDMR and MARY experiments on radicals, radical pairs, and triplets have provided much of the background for connecting the x-ray structure provided by Michel, Deisenhofer and Huber to the function of the various components of the bacterial reaction center. Previously, we have shown that the triplet of Rp. viridis is highly localized on one half of the special pair whereas the triplet of Rb. sphaeroides is highly delocalized such that the triplet of the special pair has approximate C2 symmetry.
Accelerate direct reconstruction of linear parametric images using nested algorithms

Conventional methods for generating parametric images in PET usually reconstruct a sequence of emission images from measured projection data first, and then fit the time activity curve (TAC) at each pixel to a linear or nonlinear kinetic model. To obtain an accurate estimate, the resolution and noise distribution of the reconstructed emission images should be modeled in the kinetic modeling. However, exact modeling of the noise distribution in emission images reconstructed by iterative methods is extremely difficult because the noise is space-variant and object-dependent. Often the space-varying noise variance and correlations between pixels are simply ignored in the kinetic modeling step, which leads to suboptimal results. Direct reconstruction of parametric images from raw projection data solves this problem by combining kinetic modeling and emission image reconstruction into a single formula. It allows accurate modeling noise statistics in data and hence is statistically more efficient [1], [2].
Reconfigurable accelerator design platform for ultrasonic signal processing and imaging applications

Ultrasonic testing and imaging systems have evolved from a basic single transducer system to arrays capable of 3-dimensional scans. These systems need to be flexible and also reconfigurable in order to acquire and process a vast amount of data. The system must also allow for a variety of parameters like the data acquisition rate, signal lengths and processing characteristics which need to be reconfigurable for adaptability to different applications. This study presents a reconfigurable hardware/software co-design system including specific hardware accelerators to acquire and perform ultrasonic signal processing efficiently. For this study, the architecture of the developed ultrasonic system is comprised of two different functional components. One component is specially designed to process the data while the other component gathers, compresses and transfers data which can later be restored and analyzed. For data transfer a simple and consequently efficient real-time operating system and Ethernet connective is developed. This is all implemented on the ZEDBoard Zynq SoC for maximum flexibility and performance. The data handling component is built with support for gathering, compressing, reconstructing, and transferring data to other platforms via Ethernet communication. The different variations of the designs allow the system designers the choice of applying the best solution for their specific applications.
Genome-Wide Expression Profiling and Minimal Residual Disease in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

The assessment of early treatment response based on minimal residual disease (MRD) detection is a powerful prognostic indicator in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). To identify genes whose expression is associated with poorer early response and to define gene expression signatures predictive of MRD findings, we correlated gene expression profiles of diagnostic bone marrow blasts in 236 children with ALL enrolled in St. Jude Total Therapy XIIIA-XV protocols with MRD results obtained at days 19 and 46 of remission induction treatment. The dataset consisted of 46 T-lineage ALL and 190 B-lineage ALL; the latter included 10 BCR-ABL , 11 E2A-PBX1 , 12 MLL rearranged, 49 TEL-AML1 , 46 hyperdiploid >50 chromosomes (HD>50) karyotype, 3 BCR-ABL plus HD>50, and 59 other cases. RNA expression profiles were obtained using Affymetrix U133A gene chips; MRD was assessed by a flow cytometric assay that allows the identification of one leukemic cell among 10,000 normal bone marrow cells or greater and is applicable to approximately 95% of patients. We used a general linear model to eliminate the possible confounding influence of genetic subtypes known to be associated with treatment response. Then, we applied a t -test with the P value threshold of 0.006, determined by the profile information criterion for large-scale multiple tests. By this criterion, 279 probe sets were associated with MRD at day 19 (estimated false-discovery rate [FDR] 0.42) and 606 probe sets with MRD at day 46 (estimated FDR 0.17); 41 probe sets were associated with MRD at both time points. The expression of CASP8A2 ( FLASH , CED-4 ), which encodes a key mediator of apoptosis and participates in glucocorticoid signaling, was significantly lower in cases with MRD at both time points. In a cluster analysis using the probe sets associated with MRD, the capacity to predict results of the MRD assay was limited. For example, only 69% of MRD-negative and 81% of MRD-positive results at day 19 were correctly classified. Similar results were obtained using the day 46 data. We also determined whether MRD status could be predicted by an unsupervised cluster analysis of all 236 cases with 17,269 probe sets (after removing transcripts not expressed in any of the samples). Although there was a strong association of cluster formation with lineage and genetic subtypes, there was no significant association with MRD status at days 19 or 46. Moreover, there was no significant association with MRD status in analyses limited to a series of 66 ‘standard-risk’ B-lineage ALL cases (excluding those with BCR-ABL , TEL-AML1 , MLL , hypodiploid 50), or to cases of each individual genetic subtype. In conclusion, leukemic cells at diagnosis express genes that are associated with MRD. Although gene expression profiles can accurately identify leukemia cell lineage and genotype, they cannot accurately predict MRD status, probably owing to the multifactorial nature of treatment response, which is influenced not only by cellular drug resistance but also by clinical and pharmacologic variables of the host.
Outreach and online training services at the Saccharomyces Genome Database.

The Saccharomyces Genome Database (SGD; www.yeastgenome.org ), the primary genetics and genomics resource for the budding yeast S. cerevisiae , provides free public access to expertly curated information about the yeast genome and its gene products. As the central hub for the yeast research community, SGD engages in a variety of social outreach efforts to inform our users about new developments, promote collaboration, increase public awareness of the importance of yeast to biomedical research, and facilitate scientific discovery. Here we describe these various outreach methods, from networking at scientific conferences to the use of online media such as blog posts and webinars, and include our perspectives on the benefits provided by outreach activities for model organism databases. Database url http://www.yeastgenome.org.
Gabor Duality Characterizations

Gabor duality studies have resulted in a number of characterizations of dual Gabor frames, among which the Wexler-Raz identity and the operator approach reformulation by Janssen and by Daubechies, Landau, and Landau are well known. A concise overview of existing Gabor duality characterizations is presented. In particular, we demonstrate that the Gabor duality conditions by Wexler and Raz [23] and by Daubechies, Landau, and Landau [6], and the parametric dual Gabor formula of [15] are equivalent.
Visual discrimination in a bottlenose porpoise

The visual perception of a captive dolphin or porpoise, Tursiops truncatus, was tested by the discrimination method for geometric forms presented both in air and in clear, filtered seawater. Patterns shown in the air were poorly perceived from beneath the water, due quite likely to the distorted nature of the image as a result of ripples at the surface. With the stimuli submerged, however, the accuracy of discrimination was much improved. Oscillating head movements, which occurred during the approach to the stimuli, suggest that the dolphin does not possess overlapping visual fields. The animal appeared to be looking with first one eye and then the other. Although the head movements were similar to those which take place during auditory scanning, no sonar sounds could be detected. In making a final choice close to the stimuli, much VTE also occurred. This involved lateral and vertical orientation of the whole body and was distinctly different from the scanning movements of the head.
The anatomy of corruption: the practice of pension fund trustee decisionmaking

The model of pension plan trustee decisionmaking introduced in a previous paper is extended here emphasising aspects of the social psychology of investment decisionmaking, including collegiality and the necessity of justification. To give the analysis structure, I begin with the framing logic of Kahneman and Tversky and introduce three different frames structuring decisionmaking, starting with the 'weapons of influence', the 'strategies of justification', and, finally, the 'emotions of relationships'. The focus of the paper is on how and why corruption occurs in trustee decisionmaking, especially concerning community development projects. Implications are drawn from the model of corruption for current debate over the proper scope of regulation. It is argued that the current system of trust law and case-by-case adjudication is inadequate in the face of the systematic nature of corruption and the potential harm occasioned by corrupt trustee decisionmaking. It is also argued that the model of corruption sketched in this paper can be applied to a wide range of investment decisions, not just community development projects (the initial reference point for the paper).
Giarratano is a Scarecrow: The Right to Counsel in State Capital Post-Conviction Proceedings

Giarratano v. Murray, 492 U.S. 1 (1989) rejected the claim of a Death Row inmate that he had a constitutional right to the appointment of counsel to assist him in pursuing state post-conviction remedies. The thesis of this article, stated in Part I, is that, like Bowers v. Hardwick, 476 U.S. 186 (1986), before it was overruled by Lawrence v. Texas, 539 U.S. 558 (2003), Giarratano is dead - a scarecrow.Part II reviews the Giarratano litigation, noting several of the questions that the Supreme Court left unaddressed. Part III describes the subsequent actions of the states, actions that have considerable legal significance. Today every active death penalty state except Alabama provides for the pre-filing appointment of counsel to assist indigent Death Row inmates in the preparation of post-conviction petitions challenging their convictions and sentences.Part IV posits that Giarratano has been much overread. The controlling opinion of Justice Kennedy does recognize that capital post-conviction petitioners have a right to counsel in certain circumstances - and those circumstances exist in today's world.Part V focuses on due process issues. Part V (A) notes that the Court should have applied the procedural due process framework of Mathews v. Eldridge, 424 U.S. 319 (1976), but did not. Had it done so, or were it to apply its more recent analysis of the due process right to counsel with respect to criminal proceedings (or to revive its older one based on equal protection), the constitutional right would be secure. Moreover, Part V (B) argues, the decision of the states to create statutory entitlements provides an independent source of due process protection against their arbitrary deprivation.Part VI discusses the Eighth Amendment and the changes in the legal and factual environments since Giarratano. These changes show the case to be inconsistent with contemporary standards of accuracy respecting capital determinations.Part VII considers whether Giarratano would pass muster under the legal norms applicable to the democracies of Europe and concludes that it would not.Part VIII concludes by urging judges, lawyers, and legislators to recognize the reality that Giarratano is a lifeless husk and calling upon the Supreme Court to inter it.
Investigation of probiotics in multiple sclerosis

None of the disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) currently being used for the management of multiple sclerosis (MS) are 100% effective. In addition, side effects associated with the use of these DMTs have limited the practice of combination therapy. Hence, there is a need for safe immunomodulatory agents to fine-tune the management of MS. The gut microbiome plays an important role in autoimmunity, and several studies have reported alterations in the gut microbiome of MS patients. Studies in animal model of MS have identified members of the gut commensal microflora that exacerbate or ameliorate neuroinflammation. Probiotics represent an oral, non-toxic immunomodulatory agent that could be used in combination with current MS therapy. We designed a pilot study to investigate the effect of VSL3 on the gut microbiome and peripheral immune system function in healthy controls and MS patients. VSL3 administration was associated with increased abundance of many taxa with enriched taxa predominated by Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, and Bifidobacterium species. At the immune level, VSL3 administration induced an anti-inflammatory peripheral immune response characterized by decreased frequency of intermediate monocytes (CD14highCD16low), decreased mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of CD80 on classical monocytes as well as decreased human leukocyte antigen-antigen D related (HLA-DR) MFI on dendritic cells.
Arkadev Chattopadhyay: Computing Modulo Composites

This chapter discusses aspects of Chattopadhyay’s results with Avi Wigderson on representing Boolean functions by polynomials in the integers modulo a composite number. When the modulus is prime many answers are known, but the composite case brings issues at the frontier of complexity lower bounds.
Strategic Coordination of Good and Bad News Disclosures: The Case of Voluntary Patent Disclosures and Negative Earnings Surprises

Firms enjoy a wide degree of discretion in their disclosure of events in the patent granting process, which investors generally view as "good news" announcements. This study examines the timing of patent disclosure in conjunction with earnings announcements in light of managers' incentives to avoid the stock price-related consequences of earnings disappointments. Among a sample of firms making voluntary patent disclosures, the results suggest that the likelihood of disclosing a patent before a "bad news" earnings announcement increases in the magnitude of the negative earnings surprise. Further, such strategic patent disclosure appears to successfully dampen the market response to the earnings disappointment. Overall, the empirical findings suggest that some firms strategically time the voluntary disclosure of patent-related information in order to manage their short-term stock prices before an adverse information event.
Present indications for adjuvant therapy in resectable rectal cancer.

Combined modality therapy is an effective adjuvant therapy for many patients with clinically resectable rectal cancer. The indications for adjuvant therapy for rectal cancer are based on the pattern of failure after surgery. Despite radical surgery, local-regional failure frequently occurs in patients with transmural or node-positive rectal cancers. The incidence of treatment failure in the pelvis is directly correlated with the extent of transmural penetration (microscopic vs gross) and the additional risk of lymph node metastases. In the post-operative setting its use is dictated by pathologic stage and the type of operation (i.e. conventional surgery or a local excision). The choice of which post-operative adjuvant regimen to recommend in the non-protocol setting remains controversial. If 5-FU alone is used, then it is best administered by continuous infusion. In the preoperative setting, the use of adjuvant therapy depends on the clinical stage and the need for sphincter preservation. Phase I/II trials examining the use of newer chemotherapeutic agents such as Tomudex, UFT/leucovorin, CPT-11, oxaliplatin, eniluracil and capecitabine with preoperative radiation therapy are in progress. This review examines both the selection criteria and results of adjuvant combined modality therapy for patients with clinically resectable rectal cancer.
High-Throughput SAXS for the Characterization of Biomolecules in Solution: A Practical Approach

The recent innovation of collecting X-ray scattering from solutions containing purified macromolecules in high-throughput has yet to be truly exploited by the biological community. Yet, this capability is becoming critical given that the growth of sequence and genomics data is significantly outpacing structural biology results. Given the huge mismatch in information growth rates between sequence and structural methods, their combined high-throughput and high success rate make high-throughput small angle X-ray scattering (HT-SAXS) analyses increasingly valuable. HT-SAXS connects sequence as well as NMR and crystallographic results to biological outcomes by defining the flexible and dynamic complexes controlling cell biology. Commonly falling under the umbrella of bio-SAXS, HT-SAXS data collection pipelines have or are being developed at most synchrotrons. How investigators practically get their biomolecules of interest into these pipelines, balance sample requirements and manage HT-SAXS data output format varies from facility to facility. While these features are unlikely to be standardized across synchrotron beamlines, a detailed description of HT-SAXS issues for one pipeline provides investigators with a practical guide to the general procedures they will encounter. One of the longest running and generally accessible HT-SAXS endstations is the SIBYLS beamline at the Advanced Light Source in Berkeley CA. Here we describe the current state of the SIBYLS HT-SAXS pipeline, what is necessary for investigators to integrate into it, the output format and a summary of results from 2 years of operation. Assessment of accumulated data informs issues of concentration, background, buffers, sample handling, sample shipping, homogeneity requirements, error sources, aggregation, radiation sensitivity, interpretation, and flags for concern. By quantitatively examining success and failures as a function of sample and data characteristics, we define practical concerns, considerations, and concepts for optimally applying HT-SAXS techniques to biological samples.
Optimally Quantized and Smoothed Histograms.

We propose an approach using optimal quantization and smoothing to generate adaptive histograms for multi-class one dimensional data. The discretization of data is optimal in maximizing a quantizer performance measure, defined by a combination of average log likelihood, entropy and correct classification probability. The optimal partition is found by dynamic programming. The density of each bin is obtained by a smoothing technique that can be considered a generalized k nearest neighbor density estimation algorithm. However, our smoothing approach is much more efficient. Experimental results demonstrated the effectiveness of the optimally quantized and smoothed histograms. Even though obtaining one takes about quadratic time in sample size, an optimal histogram is much more efficient to use than typical kernel methods. Therefore, optimal histograms are more suitable in applications with massive data set.
Challenges to the integration of Syrian refugees

In this study, we provide an overview of the situation of Syrian refugees and other non-citizens living in host countries. We explored the cases of Turkey, Germany, the United Kingdom, Greece, Italy, Canada and Australia.
Prediction of retention indices: V. Influence of electronic effects and column polarity on retention index

Abstract The retention index increment for addition of a methylene group to an analyte molecule is shown for 1-halo-n-alkanes to be different from 100 i.u., a value that is customarily assigned according to the current convention in retention index prediction. In temperature-programmed gas chromatography using linearly interpolated retention index I, a linear regression equation, I=AZ+(GRF), with the number of atoms (Z) in the molecule as variable can describe the retention of 16 homologous series of organic compounds on non-polar and polar columns with characteristic A (linear regression coefficient) and (GRF) (group retention factor) values. A molecular model of retention on the basis of electron density and electron density distribution relative to that of n-alkane is proposed. This model brings out the inter- and intramolecular electronic effects in the analyte molecule and its dipole–dipole interaction with the stationary liquid phases, as variations in the A value. The (GRF) value varies with the connectivity ability of a functional group for extended conjugation, substitution, etc., but is most influenced by hydrogen bonding (H-bonding) with the stationary liquid phase. One can estimate the sequence of elution of a mixture of organic compounds from any two of the three parameters on the right-hand side of the above equation or retrieve the retention indexes of an entire homologous series from its A and (GRF) values. The fact that each analyte molecule has its own A value on different columns makes column difference (ΔI) compound-specific rather than column-specific, a departure from previous assumptions.
Comparison of cyclosporine determinations in whole blood by three different methods. HPLC, 125I RIA and 3H RIA.

The authors have analyzed and compared the cyclosporine concentrations in whole blood specimens from pediatric renal transplant patients using three different methods: high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) (5u C18 reverse-phase column),3H radioimmunoassay (RIA) (Sandoz®, E. Hanover, NJ), and 125I RIA (substituted 3H-tracer in Sandoz Kit with 125I tracer made by Immuno Nuclear Corporation, Stillwater, MN). Results obtained by the 125I RIA correlated well with results obtained by the 3H RIA. Both RIA methods had similar correlation with the HPLC method. The 125I RIA method showed higher sensitivity and greater precision than the 3H RIA method. The authors conclude that the l25I RIA method can be used for cyclosporine determination in whole blood specimens. The use of the 125I RIA provides a simple and rapid method with higher counting efficiency and less background quenching than the 3H RIA method, which requires cumbersome liquid scintillation counting procedures.
Computational Design, Analogy, and Creativity

We first characterize creativity in design from an information-processing perspective and analyze analogical thinking as a core process of design creativity. Then, we describe a computational theory of analogical design called model-based analogy. Next, we summarize empirical results from in situ observations of analogical thinking in biologically inspired design. Then, we analyze biologically inspired design from the viewpoint of model-based analogy. Finally, we briefly reflect on computational creativity research on analogical design.
Assessing Visual Function in the Older Driver

It is likely that some older adults will have to be restricted from driving because of serious and irreversible deterioration in skills crucial to driving, due to vision impairment, visual attention deficits, and decreased cognitive status; however many older adults with driving difficulties can improve their driving skills or reduce their crash risk through education or training programs. Research to evaluate interventions such as those previously mentioned has high priority, given society's need to maintain the mobility and personal independence of older adults without sacrificing safety concerns.
Exploring the Organizational Value of Integrated Transition Programs for Underrepresented College Students

Emerging evidence demonstrates that integrated programs, which combine academic and socioemotional supports and bridge boundaries between academic and student affairs, can improve college success r...
How can Targeted Price Promotion Create Value for Firms in B2C Relationships? A Systematic Review and Research Agenda: An Abstract

Advances in technology have facilitated an increased emphasis on targeted price promotion to consumers. Given the increased use of targeted price promotion by firms and the significant emphasis on marketing’s ability to generate substantial value for firms, it is imperative that researchers give increased attention to the value-creating potential of targeted price promotions. The significant push by manufacturers and retailers to embrace targeted price promotion as a strategy to offer special prices only to select customers is fueled by the continuous developments in marketing technologies, which enhance firms’ ability to target customers. In fact, projections also suggest that firms will continue to engage in the use of targeted pricing strategies and individualized offers to customers expected to remain on an upward trajectory. Overall, firms’ targeted price promotion strategies involve the collection and interpretation of vast amounts of data on consumers to generate insights into consumers’ likely response to promoted products, brands, and services. However, the effectiveness of a targeted price promotion as a strategy to help generate firm value is dependent on consumers’ response to the promotion. Unfortunately, although marketing researchers have examined the impact of targeted price promotion on firm outcomes, targeted price promotion research remains highly fragmented. In addition, mixed results from existing research and the growing use of the targeted price promotion by firms demand a systematic approach to bring clarity, specificity, and comprehensiveness to targeted price promotion strategy. To address this research gap, we first frame our research question as the impact of targeted price promotion on the creation of value for firms. Next, we systematically review and summarize research findings on how targeted price promotion impacts key firm value indicators such as increased marketing effectiveness, customer loyalty, and revenue, while also discussing challenges such as sub-optimal returns and customer switching. Finally, we offer a research agenda and implications of our research for theory and practice.
Layered immunity of the developing thymus.

In this issue of Blood, Elsaid et al reinforce the temporal and spatial complexity of immune layering during embryogenesis by intricately dissecting 2 distinct waves of early thymic progenitors (ETPs) that differentially contribute to normal thymic organogenesis and homeostasis. The concept of “layered immunity,” in the form of waves of different immune cells derived from developmentally distinct progenitor populations, was initially described for innate-like lymphocytes, including B1-B cells and γ-δ T cells., Cellular compartments generated by layered immunity now extend beyond subsets of innate-like B and T cells to include tissue-resident macrophages, innate lymphoid cells (ILC), and mast cells.
Dynamic force decay evaluation of latex and non-latex orthodontic elastics

To evaluate the force decay over time of latex and non-latex orthodontic elastics subjected to either static or dynamic stretching under simulated intraoral conditions. Four types of elastics (1/4-inch 4.5 ounces and 1/4-inch 6.5 ounces, each latex and non-latex) were subjected to either static stretching to 3 times internal diameter (ID) or dynamic stretching from 3 to 4.5 times ID in artificial saliva at 37 °C for 24 h. Forces generated by the elastics were measured at 0, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 h. Differences among elastic types, time points, and between stretching regimens were tested for statistical significance (P < 0.05). Both stretching regimens caused rapid force decay in all elastic types, which was significantly higher in the non-latex elastics than in the latex elastics. In contrast, there were no differences between elastic types made of the same material. With both stretching regimens, the force decay was significant only after the first hour for the latex elastics, whereas it remained significant up to 24 h for the non-latex elastics. All elastic types generated significantly lower forces after dynamic stretching than after static stretching with 70.2, 68.8, and 66.1% of the initial force remaining after 4, 8, and 24 h for latex elastics and 48.0, 40.8, and 29.5% for non-latex elastics. Latex elastics retained significantly more force over time than their non-latex equivalents. Because of the higher force decay in a dynamic environment, it is important that non-latex elastics be changed more frequently.
SALMONELLA ISOLATED FROM CENTRAL NEW YORK WILDLIFE ADMITTED TO A VETERINARY MEDICAL TEACHING HOSPITAL

The role of wildlife as a source of zoonotic Salmonella transmission is poorly understood, as are the clinical implications of this pathogen among wildlife species. Wildlife hospitals represent an important location to conduct Salmonella surveillance, given the wide variety of species admitted for medical and surgical care. Our objectives were to estimate the prevalence of fecal Salmonella shedding among wildlife admitted to a veterinary medical teaching hospital, to identify risk factors for infection, and to fully characterize the isolates. Voided fecal samples (birds and mammals) and cloacal swab samples (reptiles and amphibians) were collected between May 2018 and March 2020. Standard bacteriologic culture methods were used to detect Salmonella, and isolates were characterized via serotyping, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and whole-genome sequencing. Samples were collected from 348 wildlife patients representing 74 wildlife species, and the apparent prevalence of fecal Salmonella shedding was 1.4% (5/348; 95% confidence interval, 0.5-3.3%). Four serotypes were identified, and isolates were phenotypically susceptible to all antimicrobial agents tested. Two isolates were closely related to human clinical isolates, demonstrating the overlap between wildlife and human pathogens. Fecal Salmonella shedding among hospitalized wildlife appears to be uncommon, and the risk of either nosocomial or zoonotic Salmonella transmission is presumably low. Nevertheless, the occurrence of Salmonella in wildlife, particularly among common species found in a wide array of habitats, poses a potential threat to public health and may result in transmission to more-vulnerable wildlife populations.
Evaluation of the LIGHT Curriculum: An African American Church-Based Curriculum for Training Lay Health Workers to Support Advance Care Planning, End-of-Life Decision Making, and Care

Background: Lay health workers (LHWs) engaging African Americans in conversations about advance care planning (ACP) often have felt unprepared for the challenges of communicating with patients as t...
Poe and the Visual Arts

Contents List of Illustrations Acknowledgments Note on the Text Introduction 1 Poe's Exposure to Art Exhibited in Philadelphia and Manhattan, 1838-1845 2 Artists and Artwork in Poe's Short Stories and Sketches 3 Poe's Homely Interiors 4 Poe's Visual Tricks 5 Poe's Art Criticism Appendix Notes Bibliography Index
Phase transition characteristics of diphosphatidylglycerol (cardiolipin) and stereoisomeric phosphatidyldiacylglycerol bilayers: Mono- and divalent metal ion effects

Abstract Synthesis and phase transition characteristics of aqueous dispersions of the homologous (12 : 0, 14 : 0, 16 : 0) diphosphatidylglycerols (cardiolipins) and phosphatidyldiacylglycerols are reported. Electron microscopy of the negatively stained aqueous dispersions reveals a characteristic lamellar structure suggesting that these phospholipid molecules are organized as bilayers in the aqueous dispersions. The phase transition temperature ( T m ) and the enthalpy of transition ( ΔH ) increase monotonically with chain length in the cardiolipin and phosphatidyldiacylglycerol series; T m for phosphatidyldiacylglycerol is higher than that for cardiolipin of the same chain-length. The transition temperatures for the enantiomeric sn-3,3- and sn-1,1- phosphatidyldiacylglycerol and for the diastereomeric, meso -sn-1,3- phosphatidyldiacylglycerol are approximately the same. The molar enthalpy for the transition of cardiolipin-NH4+ bilayers is approximately twice the value for the phosphatidylcholines of the same chain length, i.e., the molar enthalpy per acyl chain is approximately the same in the two systems. The transition temperatures for metal ion salts of C1 6-cardiolipin exhibit a biphasic dependence upon the unhydrated ionic radii, i.e. the highest T m is observed for Ca2+- cardiolipin and decreases for the salts of ions with smaller and larger ionic radii than that of Ca2+. The lowest T m is observed for Rb+-cardiolipin. Monovalent metal salts of cardiolipin exhibit two phase transitions. This effect may result from different conformational packing of the four acyl chains due to differences in metal-phosphate binding.
White dwarf evolution in real time: What pulsating white dwarfs teach us about stellar evolution

The frontier of stellar evolution represented by the white dwarfs is being pushed back thanks to observational mapping of the pulsation properties of the WDVs over the past 20 years; it is worthwhile to note that the most important tools in all this work have been modest 1-meter class telescopes. Using the observed pulsation spectra of the WDVs, pulsation theory has been able to determine some important quantities describing white dwarfs, such as rotation velocities and total masses. The evolutionary time scale for hot white dwarfs has been measured; it is just a matter of time before the more gradual changes in cooler white dwarfs are also detected. With a little additional work on both observational and theoretical sides, we may soon measure moderate magnetic fields in WDVs. We will also soon be able to quantitatively determine the compositional structure of their outer layers as modelling progresses. Even the lack of observed pulsations in the hottest white dwarfs is leading to re-evaluation of models of their structure. All of this success is rooted in the analysis of the basic pulsation spectra; the rich observed variations on this “linear” theme promise to provide additional detailed information on white dwarf structure and evolution. The WDVs are garden variety white dwarfs that have simply been caught in the act of pulsation; they are currently in one of the relatively brief phases of their evolution in which they are vibrationally unstable. By studying the properties of the pulsators, then, one is sampling the properties of all white Dwarfs
Control of Uncertain Systems

Novel direct adaptive robust state and output feedback controllers are presented for the output tracking control of a class of nonlinear systems with unknown system dynamics and disturbances. Both controllers employ a variable-structure radial basis function (RBF) network that can determine its structure dynamically to approximate unknown system dynamics. Radial basis functions are added or removed online in order to achieve the desired tracking accuracy and prevent to network redundancy. The raised-cosine RBF is employed to enable fast and efficient training and output evaluation of the RBF network. The direct adaptive robust output feedback controller is constructed by utilizing a high-gain observer to estimate the tracking error for the controller implementation. The closed-loop systems driven by the variable neural direct adaptive robust controllers are actually switched systems.
Dissociating the Body Schema: Evidence from Two Case Studies (P2.179)

OBJECTIVE: To identify potential dissociations in disorders of the body schema. BACKGROUND: After stroke, some individuals demonstrate impairments to the “body schema” - a multisensory representation of the body in space. While this concept has some heuristic value, its utility is limited by a lack of specificity. The body schema may be dissociated into representations of body size and shape and body position in external space. DESIGN/METHODS: Brain-damaged individuals were presented with a battery to assess deficits in body representation. During the tactile localization task, participants localized suprathreshold stimuli presented to the dorsal surface of the hand. For arm localization, participants’ hands were moved underneath an occluding board, and participants pointed to the perceived hand location. To examine perception of body size and shape, participants pointed to the perceived location of hand landmarks (e.g. knuckles, fingertips) without touch or vision. In the visual hand size task, participants selected the most normal hand from an array of hand pictures with distorted hand length or width. RESULTS: One participant with a right subcortical infarct demonstrated a deficit in localizing the body in external space, as evidenced by a significant contralesional bias for the contralesional limb on tactile localization, arm localization, and in judging overall hand position on landmark localization. However, perceiving body size and shape was unimpaired, as demonstrated by normal performance on the visual hand size task and accurately judging the relative position of hand landmarks. In contrast, a second participant with a left parietal infarct was accurate in localizing the body in space. However, he was impaired at judging the relative position of contralesional hand landmarks and at the visual hand size task - demonstrating a deficit in representing body size and shape. CONCLUSIONS: These results provide evidence for dissociations of the body schema. These findings may help in developing more specific models of body representation and more effective rehabilitation techniques. Study Supported by: University of Delaware Research Foundation Disclosure: Dr. Medina has nothing to disclose. Dr. Baumert has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ziegler has nothing to disclose.
Student Perceptions of Information Systems Careers

AbstractCollege student interest in computer-related careers has declined precipitously in recent years. One possible explanation for this decline is that students hold either wrong or confused perceptions of the workstyle and conditions associated with such careers. A study of freshman business majors and information systems faculty was conducted to determine the perceptions which the two groups hold on the workstyle of an information systems graduate. Their perceptions were analyzed both within group and across groups. The study showed that the student group holds a substantially flawed picture of an information systems career, but that there is also substantial disagreement about the nature of such careers among faculty members. The results suggest the need for a more aggressive educational strategy to market the information systems career, and the need on the part of faculty to present alternative approaches to such a career.
Transport Direction of Peoria Loess in Nebraska and Implications for Loess Sources on the Central Great Plains

In the midwestern United States, large rivers draining the Laurentide Ice Sheet (LIS) were the most important sources of Peoria Loess, deposited during the last glaciation. Loess deposition near those rivers may have responded primarily to ice-sheet dynamics rather than direct effects of climatic change. In contrast, it has been proposed that thick Peoria Loess on the central Great Plains was derived mainly from unglaciated landscapes northwest of the main loess deposits. In this study, transport directions inferred from more than 600 measurements of Peoria Loess thickness in Nebraska are used to test the hypothesis that much of the Peoria Loess on the Great Plains is nonglaciogenic. A strong northwest to southeast thickness trend indicates that most Peoria Loess in Nebraska was transported from one or more unglaciated northwestern source areas rather than from glacially influenced river floodplains. The Missouri River (draining the LIS), the Platte River (draining alpine glaciers), and the Elkhorn River (unglaciated basin) were secondary sources. Their contribution is not detectable beyond a distance of 40–60 km. Peoria Loess deposition on the central Great Plains was largely a direct response to climatic change in the unglaciated source region.
An algorithm for cooperative data exchange with cost criterion

We consider the problem of minimizing the cost of cooperative data exchange between a group of wireless clients. In this problem, a group of clients needs to exchange a set of packets over a shared lossless broadcast channel. Each client initially holds a subset of packets and needs to obtain the packets held by other clients. At each round, one of the clients can broadcast its packets or a combination thereof over the channel. Each client is associated with a certain transmission cost that captures its ability to transmit packets. Such cost can depend on various factors, e.g., available battery life. In this paper, we present an efficient randomized algorithm that ensures that all clients receive all packets and minimizes the total transmission cost. We prove the optimality of the algorithm and perform simulation studies to estimate the advantage achievable by using the network coding technique.
Pollen, phytoliths, and other microscopic plant remains in underwater archaeology

Materials and methods for the recovery and analysis of microscopic plant remains in underwater archaeology. This article explores formation of underwater sites, preservation and potential contamination of botanical remains, sampling techniques, benefits of sampling and searching for microscopic remains including pollen, phytoliths, cystoliths, starch grains, epidermal tissue, and cellulose fibre, and conservation and archiving of archaeobotanical samples. Materials such as ship's caulking, surrounding sediment matrices, bilge sediments, and organic remains found inside various types of cargo containers can contain microscopic plant remains that become botanical fingerprints used to identify cargoes, ship's foods, onshore vegetation, location of a ship's home port, and plants used to make rope, basketry, and matting.
Determination of enantiomeric excess and concentration of chiral compounds using a 1,8-diheteroarylnaphthalene-derived fluorosensor

Abstract Enantioselective fluorosensing using a rigid C 2 -symmetric 1,8-diacridylnaphthalene N , N ′-dioxide sensor allows accurate determination of both the enantiomeric composition and concentration of several analytes capable of chiral hydrogen bonding.
Succession in Desert Vegetation on Streets of a Nevada Ghost Town.

Vegetation was sampled on the old street system of Wahmonie, Nevada, and on a less disturbed area immediately adjacent. The vegetation on the denuded upland site showed a large increase in bunch-grass and an invasion by pioneer shrubs which ordinarily are chiefly confined to dry washes
Positron emission tomography combined with diagnostic chest computed tomography enhances detection of regional recurrence after stereotactic body radiation therapy for early stage non–small cell lung cancer

Objective(s) Recommendations for surveillance after stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for early stage non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are not well defined. Prospective studies evaluating the efficacy of SBRT have used interval posttreatment imaging with computed tomography (CT). We set out to determine whether positron emission tomography (PET) combined with diagnostic chest CT (PET/d-chest) can enhance detection of potentially salvageable recurrence after SBRT. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of posttreatment imaging for 35 patients consecutively treated with SBRT for biopsy-proven early-stage NSCLC. PET/d-chest was generally performed every 3 months after treatment. A board-certified radiologist who did not have access to the PET results retrospectively interpreted the CT scans. CT results were reported according to response criteria used in Radiation Therapy Oncology Group 0236 and compared with PET/d-chest readings. Local and regional recurrence-free survival was compared using the Mantle-Cox (log–rank) test. Results Median follow-up was 12.8 months. Twenty-four patients had stage IA, 7 stage IB, 3 stage IIA, and 1 stage IIB biopsy-proven NSCLC. Two-year overall survival was 62%. CT scans indicated no regional recurrences. PET/d-chest indicated 10 regional recurrences. The 1-year rate of regional recurrence-free survival as evaluated by CT and PET/d-chest was 100% and 69.4%, respectively ( P = .0045). Four of 10 patients with a diagnosis of regional recurrence underwent salvage treatment with definitive chemoradiotherapy. Conclusions PET/d-chest enhances the detection of regional progression of NSCLC after SBRT over currently recommended practices. In patients who are fit for salvage treatment, where early detection of recurrence can increase the likelihood of successful treatment, PET/d-chest appears critical for follow-up.
Physical Effects Controlling Flock Formation in Systems of Self-Propelled Rods

Collective motion occurs in a wide range of biological settings, including flocks of birds, swimming bacteria, and cytoskeletal filaments. Motivated by swimming microorganisms and filament motion in a motility assay, we study a simple model of self-propelled rods using Brownian dynamics simulations and analytic theory. A flock is a group of neighboring rods that move collectively. Because the physical interactions between the rods are purely repulsive, the formation of flocks requires nonequilibrium driving. We characterize the physical interactions controlling flock stability, internal flock structure, and the distribution of flock sizes. Quantifying the dynamic phases of the flocking system through measurement of correlation functions, order parameters, and stress tensor gives insight into the origin of flocking in a simplified model system.
Mechanisms of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Modulation of Airway Immune Responses

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) most often causes severe respiratory disease in the very young and the elderly. Acute disease can also cause exacerbations of asthma in any age group. Recent findings provide insight into how the innate and adaptive immune systems respond to RSV infection and provide preliminary evidence that these effects vary significantly by RSV strain and host. Components of cell signaling pathways that induce inflammatory cytokine expression during the innate immune response and alter epithelial cell polarity through activating transcription factors, namely NF-κB, are now more clearly understood. New studies also reveal how RSV infection skews T helper (Th) cell differentiation away from the cell-mediated Th1 subset and towards the Th2 subset. There are also new data supporting preferential Th17 differentiation during RSV infection. In addition, effective immune system regulation of IL-10 expression and T regulatory cell (Treg) airway accumulation are essential for effective RSV clearance.
Multifrequency Radio Observations of the Gravitational Lens System MG 0414+0534

The four-image gravitational lens system MG 0414+0534 was observed with the VLA at 1.4, 5, 8, 15, and 22 GHz. The 15 and 22 GHz images reveal structure in the components which is consistent with that seen at other wavelengths. There was no detection of other extended emission, nor were there detections of the lensing galaxy or the component x seen in optical images. Detections of polarized emission show that the fractional polarized intensity is 1%. The observed properties of MG 0414 suggest that it is a GHz-peaked spectrum source.