cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Material transfer agreements: a university perspective.

One of your colleagues at BigAg, Inc. (or at BigAg University) says that she'd be happy to send you her transposon insertion lines that saturate the right arm of chromosome 9; you'll just need to have a material transfer agreement (MTA) signed by your institution. Six months later, the terms of the
Solitary wave runup and force on a vertical barrier

We investigate the interaction between a solitary wave and a thin vertical barrier. A set of laboratory experiments was performed with different values of incident wave height to water depth ratio, H/h, and the draught of the barrier to water depth ratio, D/h. While wave gauges were used to measure the reflected and transmitted waves, pressure transducers were installed on both sides of the barrier, enabling the calculation of wave force. The particle image velocimetry (PIV) technique is also employed to measure the velocity field in the vicinity of the barrier. A numerical model, based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations and the κ-e turbulence closure model, was first checked with experimental data and then employed to obtain additional results for the range of parameters where the laboratory experiments were not performed. Using both experimental data and numerical results, formulae for the maximum runup height, and the maximum wave force are derived in terms of H/h and D/h
Regulatory component analysis: A semi-blind extraction approach to infer gene regulatory networks with imperfect biological knowledge

With the advent of high-throughput biotechnology capable of monitoring genomic signals, it becomes increasingly promising to understand molecular cellular mechanisms through systems biology approaches. One of the active research topics in systems biology is to infer gene transcriptional regulatory networks using various genomic data; this inference problem can be formulated as a linear model with latent signals associated with some regulatory proteins called transcription factors (TFs). As common statistical assumptions may not hold for genomic signals, typical latent variable algorithms such as independent component analysis (ICA) are incapable to reveal underlying true regulatory signals. Liao et al. [1] proposed to perform inference using an approach named network component analysis (NCA), the optimization of which is achieved by a least-squares fitting approach with biological knowledge constraints. However, the incompleteness of biological knowledge and its inconsistency with gene expression data are not considered in the original NCA solution, which could greatly affect the inference accuracy. To overcome these limitations, we propose a linear extraction scheme, namely regulatory component analysis (RCA), to infer underlying regulatory signals even with partial biological knowledge. Numerical simulations show a significant improvement of our proposed RCA over NCA, not only when signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is low but also when the given biological knowledge is incomplete and inconsistent to gene expression data. Furthermore, real biological experiments on Escherichia coli are performed for regulatory network inference in comparison with several typical linear latent variable methods, which again demonstrates the effectiveness and improved performance of the proposed algorithm.
Strain-specific variation in the pattern of caudal papillae in Caenorhabditis briggsae (Nematoda: Rhabditidae); implications for species identification

Caenorhabditis briggsae is a member of the ‘elegans group’, a monophyletic clade of seven species within Caenorhabditis (SudhausK Nigon & Dougherty, 1949; Sudhaus & Kiontke, 1996). C. briggsae and C. clavopapillata can be distinguished from other elegans group members based on their patterns of caudal papillae (Kreis & Faust, 1933; Nigon & Dougherty, 1949; Friedman et al., 1977). Despite the general utility of caudal papillae patterns as diagnostic characters, their use to discriminate between C. briggsae and C. elegans came into question when a strain of C. briggsae, PB800, was obtained that displayed an elegans pattern at a high frequency. The canonical C. briggsae arrangement of caudal papillae is a 2/4+3 pattern with the third and fourth pair frequently being fused together (Nigon & Dougherty, 1949; Fig. 1A). This pattern also was reported for a second C. briggsae strain, AF16 (Fodor et al., 1983). The C. briggsae arrangement differs from those of C. elegans and C. remanei which have a 2+(1)+3+3 pattern (Maupas, 1900; Sudhaus, 1974; Baird et al., 1994; Fig. 1B, C). Immediately after its establishment, 70% of PB800 males displayed an elegans pattern on both sides. With subsequent inbreeding, this frequency decreased but still remained relatively high (see below). To address their use as diagnostic characters, caudal papillae patterns of AF16, PB800 and three additional C. briggsae strains, HK104, HK105, and VT847, were determined by microscopic observations using differential interference contrast optics (magni cation 400£). These strains were established from collections at disparate lo-
Multiple Epitopes in the Murine Cytomegalovirus Early Gene Product M84 Are Efficiently Presented in Infected Primary Macrophages and Contribute to Strong CD8+-T-Lymphocyte Responses and Protection following DNA Immunization

We previously demonstrated that after vaccination of BALB/c mice with DNA encoding murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) IE1 or M84, a similar level of protection against MCMV infection was achieved. However, the percentage of antigen-specific CD8 + T cells elicited by IE1 was higher than that by M84 as measured by intracellular cytokine staining when splenocytes were stimulated with an epitope peptide (M. Ye at al., J. Virol. 76:2100-2112, 2002). We show here that after DNA vaccination with M84, a higher percentage of M84-specific CD8 + T cells was detected when splenocytes were stimulated with J774 cells expressing full-length M84. When the defined M84 epitope 297-305 was deleted, the mutant DNA vaccine was still protective against MCMV replication and induced strong M84-specific CD8 + -T-cell responses. The M84 gene was subsequently subcloned into three fragments encoding overlapping protein fragments. When mice were immunized with each of the M84 subfragment DNAs, at least two additional protective CD8 + -T-cell epitopes were detected. In contrast to strong responses after DNA vaccination, M84-specific CD8 + -T-cell responses were poorly induced during MCMV infection. The weak M84-specific response after MCMV infection was not due to poor antigen presentation in antigen-presenting cells, since both J774 macrophages and primary peritoneal macrophages infected with MCMV in vitro were able to efficiently and constitutively present M84-specific epitopes starting at the early phase of infection. These results indicate that antigen presentation by macrophages is not sufficient for M84-specific CD8 + -T-cell responses during MCMV infection.
Automated Detection and Removal of Cloud Shadows on HICO Images

Clouds cause a serious problem for optical satellite sensors. Clouds not only conceal the ground, they also cast shadows, which cause either a reduction or total loss of information in an image, by reducing the illumination falling on the shadowed pixels. Ocean color bio-optical inversion algorithms rely on measurements of remote sensing reflectance (Rrs (λ )) at each pixel. If shadows are not removed properly across a scene, erroneous Rrs (λ) values will be calculated for the shadowed pixels, leading to incorrect retrievals of ocean color products such as chlorophyll. The cloud shadow issue becomes significant especially for high-resolution sensors such as the Hyperspectral Imager for the Coastal Ocean (HICO). On the other hand, the contrast of pixels in and outside a shadow provides opportunities to remove atmospheric contributions for ocean color remote sensing. Although identifying cloud is relatively straightforward using simple brightness thresholds, identifying their shadows especially over water is quite challenging because the brightness of the shadows is very close to the brightness of neighboring sunny regions especially in deep waters. In this study, we present automated procedures for our recently proposed cloud shadow detection technique called the Cloud Shadow Algorithm (CSA) and Lee et al. (2007) cloud and shadow atmospheric correction algorithm. We apply both automated procedures to HICO imagery and show examples of the results.
A new splinting approach for dorsal foot burns.

Successful treatment of dorsal foot burns is a challenge. By extrapolating from various treatments of dorsal hand burns the design of a static progressive splint was applied to the treatment of dorsal foot burns to prevent contracture deformities. The splint is composed of a base, dorsal thermoplastic piece, and Velcro® strap. Soft hook and loop Velcro® encircles the ankle and midfoot providing a base for the attachment of a Velcro® strap. A thermoplastic piece is conformed to the dorsum of the toes and then affixed to the Velcro® strap. The Velcro® strap is then attached to the plantar surface of the base to create an adjustable static progressive stretch. This splint is designed to prevent dorsal foot contractures during the scar maturation phase of wound healing.
Diagnosis and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis

T HE NATIONAL Osteoporosis Foundation 1 estimates that over 20 million postmenopausal white women have either osteoporosis or low bone density at the hip. Patients with hip fractures have an excess mortality of 10% to 20% within 1 year, and only one third of patients regain their premorbid level of independence. Although vertebral compression fractures are not associated with increased mortality, they can result in significant pain, limitation of activity, and in very severe cases, restrictive lung disease and changes in gastrointestinal (GI) function. Osteoporosis is a reduction in the mass of bone per unit volume, clinically known as bone mineral d6nsity (BMD). Any degree of skeletal fragility sufficient to increase the risk of fracture is considered osteoporosis. The reduction in bone mass results from failure to attain optimal peak bone mass a -(which occurs at age 30-35) and/or subsequent excess bone resorption compared with bone formation. After age 40 to 50, cortical bone is lost at a rate of 0.3% to 0.5% per year, with an acceleration to 5% to 7% per year in postmenopausal women. Cumulative bone mass loss can range from 20% to 30% in men to as much as 40% to 50% in some women. Postmenopausal women lose a disproportionate amount of trabecular bone and are at risk for vertebral and radial fracture; older men and women lose an excess of both cortical and trabecular bone and experience fractures of the femoral neck, proximal humerus, proximal tibia, and pelvis.
Isolation of pure, active α2 macroglobulin from small-scale plasma samples

Abstract Physiologically “active” α2 macroglobulin (α2M) of at least 98% purity can be isolated in high yield from small-scale plasma samples regardless of plasma haptoglobin type. The technique described herein, involving cibacron blue sepharose chromatography and immunoadsorption is suitable for purification of α2M from plasma samples of 5 ml.
Modeling and optimization of mass-limited targets for EUV lithography

Current challenges in the development of efficient laser produced plasma (LPP) sources for EUV lithography are increasing EUV power at IF and maximizing lifetime and therefore, reducing cost of devices. Mass-limited targets such as small tin droplets are considered among the best choices for cleaner operation of the optical system because of lower mass of atomic debris produced by the laser beam. The small diameter of droplets, however, decreases the conversion efficiency (CE) of EUV photons emission, especially in the case of CO2 laser, where laser wavelength has high reflectivity from the tin surface. We investigated ways of improving CE in mass-limited targets. We considered in our modeling various possible target phases and lasers configurations: from solid/liquid droplets subjected to laser beam energy with different intensities and laser wavelength to dual-beam lasers, i.e., a pre-pulse followed by a main pulse with adjusted delay time in between. We studied the dependence of vapor expansion rate, which can be produced as a result of droplet heating by pre-pulse laser energy, on target configuration, size, and laser beam parameters. As consequence, we studied the influence of these conditions and parameters on the CE and debris mass accumulation. For better understanding and more accurate modeling of all physical processes occurred during various phases of laser beam/target interactions, plasma plume formation and evolution, EUV photons emission and collection, we have implemented in our HEIGHTS package state-of-the art models and methods, verified, and benchmarked against laboratory experiments in our CMUXE center as well as various worldwide experimental results.
Does Biofilm Contribute to Diel Cycling of Zn in High Ore Creek, Montana?

Concentrations of metals cycle daily in the water column of some mining-impacted streams in the Rocky Mountains of the western USA. We hypothesized that biofilm in High Ore Creek, Montana, USA, sorbs and releases Zn on a diel cycle, and this uptake-and-release cycle controls the total and dissolved (0.45-μm filtered) Zn concentrations. We collected water samples from three sites (upstream, middle and downstream at 0, 350 and 650 m, respectively) along a 650-m reach of High Ore Creek during a 47-h period in August 2002 and from the upstream and downstream sites during a 24-h period in August 2003; we also collected biofilm samples at these sites. In 2002 and 2003, total and dissolved Zn concentrations did not exhibit a diel cycle at the upstream sampling site, which was ~30 m downstream from a settling pond through which the creek flows. However, total and dissolved Zn concentrations exhibited a diel cycle at the middle and downstream sampling sites, with the highest Zn concentrations occurring at dawn and the lowest Zn concentrations occurring during late afternoon (>2-fold range of concentrations at the downstream site). Based on (1) concentrations of Zn in biofilm at the three sites and (2) results of streamside experiments that demonstrated Zn uptake and release by naive biofilm during the light and dark hours of a photocycle, respectively, we conclude that Zn uptake in photosynthetic biofilms could contribute a large percentage to the cycling of Zn concentrations in the water column in High Ore Creek.
Studies on the manganese of the chloroplast.

Manganese deficiency of green plants is known to affect preferentially the activity of the oxygen evolving system in the photosynthetic apparatus. Our studies showed that the time needed to reactivate photosynthesis in Mn-deficient algae varies with each culture, and is often very short when Mn is added not before illumination but during the light period. The recent finding by Cheniae and Martin that the reactivation requires light, is confirmed. The plain incorporation of 54Mn into deficient algae as distinguished from reactivation was barely affected by light, yet was inhibited by uncouplers of phosphorylation. Higher plants responded to manganese deficiency either by adjusting the number of chloroplasts per cell to the limited Mn supply, or by forming disorganized chloroplasts with low chlorophyll content. These 2 types of responses produced chlorotic plants which had either a few photosynthetically active or many disabled chloroplasts. Photosystem I mediated photophosphorylation turned out to be much more sensitive to manganese deficiency than the system I dependent photoreduction of NADP+.
A Review of Methods, Data and Applications of State Diagrams of Food Systems

Understanding of the amorphous glassy state of food systems is often crucial in determining physicochemical characteristics and predicting stability of dehydrated and frozen foods. At the glass transition temperature (Tg) of food components, transformation from the amorphous glassy state to the liquid-like rubbery state occurs. Tg and ice-melting temperatures (Tm) of food systems are used to construct their state diagrams, in which the different physical states/phases and state/phase transitions of food components are presented in relation to temperature and concentration. A state diagram may be used to identify the appropriate processing and storage conditions of food systems. An overview of determination methods is carried out for glass transition temperature, ice-melting temperature and conditions of maximum-freeze-concentration (glass transition temperature of maximum-freeze-concentrated solution, Tg′ and onset of ice-melting temperature, Tm′) for food systems. The data as Tg, Tm, Tg′ and Tm′ are necessary for construction of state diagrams of foods. The advantages and limitations of the determination methods are discussed. Combined data for glass transition temperature, ice-melting temperature and conditions of maximum-freeze concentration for selected food systems are presented in this study. The effect of food composition on glass line, freezing/melting curve and maximum-freeze-concentration conditions is evaluated. The significance of the state diagrams in predicting the physical, chemical and microbial stability in foods is briefly examined. Glass transition concept and state diagrams are useful for describing the physical and structural stability of food systems at specific conditions, yet they are not considered as the only determining factors of chemical, biochemical and microbial stability of food systems.
On becoming a thinker: A psychoeducational model

An early‐childhood educational program is presented that has as its major mission the fostering of representational thinking. The program is theoretically based, derived from a Piagetian perspective, with particular emphasis on a class of social experiences that is assumed to be necessary, although not sufficient, for enhancing representational thought. This class of behavior is called distancing behavior. Distancing behaviors serve to create temporal and/or spatial and/or psychological distance between the speaker and the listener. To capture the impact of the program, the theoretical foundations are presented, followed by a detailed description of the class of social experiences deemed critical, and finally a hypothesis that these social experiences are in fact critical. Data arc presented showing that the class of social experiences effective in the educational milieu arc equally effective when examined in the context of the family.
Correlation between E-Test, Disk Diffusion, and Microdilution Methods for Antifungal Susceptibility Testing of Fluconazole and Voriconazole

The activities of fluconazole and voriconazole against isolates of Candida spp. (n = 400) were tested by the E-test, disk diffusion, and the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS) M27-A2 broth microdilution-based reference methods. More than 96% of isolates found to be susceptible to fluconazole by the reference method were identified as susceptible by the agar-based methods. Lesser degrees of correlation with the reference method were seen for isolates identified as resistant by the agar-based methods. Interpretive categories are not available for voriconazole, but results qualitatively similar to those for fluconazole were seen. The agar-based E-test and disk diffusion methods are reliable alternatives to the NCCLS M27-A2 reference microdilution method for isolates that test susceptible to fluconazole.
Mechanisms and kinetics of ion implantation

The evolution of the implant distribution during ion implantation at elevated temperatures has been theoretically studied using a comprehensive kinetic model. In the model foreign atoms, implanted into both interstitial and substitutional sites of the host lattice, could interact with implantation-induced point defects and with extended sinks such as the bombarded surface. The synergistic effects of preferential sputtering, radiation-enhanced diffusion, and radiation-induced segregation, as well as the influence of nonuniform defect production, were taken into account. The bombarded surface was allowed to move in either direction, -x or +x, depending on ion energy, i.e., on the competition between the rates of ion deposition and sputtering. The moving surface was accounted for by means of a mathematical technique of immobilizing the boundary. The ion implantation process was cast into a system of five coupled partial differential equations, which could be solved numerically using a suitable technique. Sample calculations were performed for two systems: Si/sup +/ and Al/sup +/ implantations into Ni. It has been known from previous studies that in irradiated Ni, Si atoms segregate in the same direction as the defect fluxes, whereas Al solutes migrate in the opposite direction. Thus the effects of different segregation mechanisms, as well asmore » the influence of target temperature, ion energy, and implantation rate on the evolution of implant concentrations in time and space, could be examined with the present model.« less
The reactivity of ruthenium textroxide towards aromatic and etheric functionalities in simple organic compounds

The reactivity of ruthenium tetroxide towards coal-like organic functionalities was investigated by oxidizing model substrates containing aromatic and etheric functionalities with RuO2.3H2O in the presence of variable amounts of NaIO4 as the cooxidant. Molar cooxidant/substrate ratios (cs) of between 2 and 8 were employed. Most substrates gave low product yields at low cs ratios, but product distributions obtained at the various cs ratios indicate that most functionalities are initially attacked at more than one site, forming products which can themselves be further oxidized. Phenyl groups are rapidly oxidized to CO2 when the ring is activated by electron donating substituents, but slowly, or not at all when an electron withdrawing group is present. The alkyl benzyl ether group is oxidized rapidly and exclusively to the alkyl benzoate derivative with two equivalents of cooxidant, and the product ester is inert towards further oxidation at a higher cs ratio. Phenylpentadecane is oxidized at the aromatic ring and at the benzylic methylene, even at low cs ratios, to form hexadecanoic acid, pentadecanophenone, and pentadecanoic acid, Higher cs ratios produce significant amounts of shorter chain acids with no increase in the yield of phenone. Dihydroanthracene is oxidized rapidly to anthracene, but small amounts of anthrone and anthraquinone are also formed. At higher cs ratios anthracene is slowly oxidized to the latter products.
Physiology: plants on a different scale.

Is there a unified theory that relates size and metabolic rate across all organisms? Maybe not, according to the results of experiments that measured respiration in plants of widely varying mass.
Involvement in Knowledge–Acquisition Activities by Venture Team Members and Venture Performance:

This research uses concepts of organizational learning to analyze knowledge acquisition by management teams in emerging firms. Involvement in ongoing knowledge–acquisition activities is positively ...
On-line algorithms for ordered sets and comparability graphs

Abstract We discuss several results concerning on-line algorithms for ordered sets and comparability graphs. The main new result is on the problem of on-line transitive orientation. We view on-line transitive orientation of a comparability graph G as a two-person game. In the ith round of play, 1 ⩽ i ⩽ | V(G)|, player A names a graph Gi such that Gi is isomorphic to a subgraph of G, |V(Gi)| = i, and Gi−1 is an induced subgraph of Gi if i > 1. Player B must respond with a transitive orientation of Gi which extends the transitive orientation given to Gi−1 in the previous round of play. Player A wins if and only if player B fails to give a transitive orientation to Gi for some i, 1 ⩽ i ⩽ |V(G)|. Our main result shows that player A has at most three winning moves. We also discuss applications to on-line clique covering of comparability graphs, and we mention some open problems.
Neonatal outcome following conservative management of PPROM among HIV infected patients

HIV INFECTED PATIENTS BRENDA ROSS, SONGHAI BARCLIFF, HAROLD FOX, JEAN ANDERSON, Johns Hopkins University, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Baltimore, Maryland OBJECTIVE: To assess the risk of neonatal sepsis and vertical transmission of HIV among infants born to HIV positive mothers following premature preterm spontaneous rupture of the membranes. STUDY DESIGN: To determine if pPROM among HIV positive patients increased the risk of infectious morbidity among their infants we conducted a retrospective review of the deliveries to HIV positive patients at our institution between 1996 and 2003 and identified the 15 cases complicated by pPROM. We examined the neonatal outcomes among the infants born to these patients. RESULTS: Of the 196 deliveries among HIV positive patients, 15 patients presented at less than 37 weeks gestation with pPROM. The gestational ages ranged from 24 3/7 wks to 36 6/7 wks. The latency period ranged from several hours to 4 weeks. All of the patients with pPROM were treated with prophylactic antibiotics and those at less than 32 wks were given corticosteroids to accelerate fetal lung maturation. 12 of the 15 patients were treated with intrapartum AZT. At the time of admission, 5/15 patients were on HAART, 6/ 15 were on AZT alone and the remaining four patients had not taken any ARV’s. The CD4 counts ranged from 65-892 copies/ml and the viral loads ranged from less than 50 to 165,718. Among the patients with pPROM there was one case of neonatal sepsis and one episode of vertical transmission, different infants. CONCLUSION: Preterm premature spontaneous rupture of the membranes is one of the most common causes of preterm delivery. There is little information about appropriate management among HIV infected patients. Although our data is limited, we saw no significant increase in vertical transmission or other complications among neonates born to HIV infected women with pPROM who were managed expectantly.
The Promotion Paradox: Organizational Mortality and Employee Promotion Chances in Silicon Valley Law Firms, 1946–19961

This article argues that there is a “promotion paradox”—a negative relation between firm life chances and employee promotion chances. I argue that this is due to a firm’s bargaining power, which increases with the firm’s competitive strength. I find strong support using data on 50 years of Silicon Valley law firms and attorneys. Young, small, specialist, and low‐status firms are more likely to fail but are also contexts with the highest promotion likelihood. Moreover, except for those firms that are “near death,” an associate’s promotion likelihood increases with the law firm’s probability of failure.
The role of oculopneumoplethysmography in detecting acute carotid artery thrombosis in patients with neurologic deficits after carotid endarterectomy

Abstract Background: This study analyzes the role of oculopneumoplethysmography (OPG/Gee) in detecting acute carotid thrombosis (CAT) after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in a timely fashion for immediate exploration, and minimizing unnecessary surgery. Patients and methods: Fifty-three patients with neurologic deficits that were noticed after CEA in the operating or recovery room had immediate OPG/Gee. Patients with a positive OPG underwent immediate exploration. Patients with a negative OPG had a duplex ultrasound (DU), and if positive for ≥50% stenosis, the patient underwent exploration. If the DU was negative, the patient underwent cerebral computed tomography scanning and angiography. Results: Thirty-one of 53 (58%) had a positive OPG, 30 (97%) of whom had CAT on exploration. Twenty-two of 53 (42%) with a negative OPG had a DU, 4 of whom had ≥50% stenosis (1 thrombosis) that was confirmed by exploration. The remaining 18 patients had a negative DU that was confirmed by angiography. OPG had an overall accuracy of 96% in detecting acute CAT, with a sensitivity of 97%, specificity of 95%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 97%, and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 95%. Combined OPG and selective DU had an overall accuracy of 98% in detecting surgically correctable lesions, with 100% sensitivity, 95% specificity 97% PPV, and 100% NPV. Mandatory exploration in all 53 patients would have resulted in 19 (36%) unnecessary surgeries versus 1 of 53 (2%) if exploration had been done based on OPG with selective DU (P Conclusions: OPG/Gee is very sensitive and timely in detecting acute CAT, and carotid exploration in these patients can improve the results of CEA. It also minimizes unnecessary explorations. Patients with a negative OPG should undergo DU, and if positive, they should undergo exploration.
REAFFERENCE AND ATTRACTORS IN THE OLFACTORY SYSTEM DURING ODOR RECOGNITION

Olfactory bulb activity has been postulated to be chaotic, as measured in the EEG, and to be subject to an attractor with many "wings" enabling classification of different learned odor classes. Two parallel questions are thus addressed by the work presented here: (1) what is the evidence for attractors in the olfactory system, which can mediate learned odor classes? and (2) how does the olfactory system enter a specific attractor or attractor wing associated with the learned odor during the classification process? Both of these questions address the wider notion of endogenous activity preparing the system for an expected stimulus, which is at the basis of the reafference principle. By viewing the brain as a distributed complex dynamical system with global attractors, these questions can be answered together. Rats were implanted with bipolar macroelectrodes in the Olfactory Bulb (OB), Prepyriform Cortex (PPC), Entorhinal Cortex (EC), and Dentate Gyrus (DG), and then trained in an operant paradigm to press a bar for a reward in the presence of one odor and to receive no reward in the presence of another odor. Local Field Potentials (LFP) were recorded simultaneously from the structures during the operant task. We present evidence for three endogenous events: (1) preafference, which is manifested both by the EC entering an attractor and a mid-range signal (15-30 Hz) which appears to be passed from the EC to the OB just before the OB enters an attractor; (2) afference, where the OB enters an attractor during the odor recognition period of the experiment and the LFP recordings indicate that the OB drives the other structures in all frequency bands, especially the high gamma band (65-100 Hz) associated with the OB burst frequency; and (3) reafference or post-afference, which is accompanied by a lower frequency gamma band signal (40-60 Hz) originating in the PPC and passed to both the OB and the EC just before the onset of the motor response to the odor. We use a new method, NECTAR (Nonparametric Exact Contingency Table Association Routine), related to mutual information, to verify what is seen with coherence and phase estimates, the apparent driving of each structure at different times in the odor trials, and to display evidence for non-periodic attractors governing both individual physiological structures and the system of structures. This is the first evidence of an endogenous, limbic event associated with sensory perceptual tuning in a mammal. These results are also the first experimental confirmation that the attractors governing olfactory activity involve multiple sites in the olfactory/limbic system and implement the process of attention.
A Library of Feature Fitting Algorithms for GD&T Verification of Planar and Cylindrical Features

Conformation of a manufactured feature to the applied geometric tolerances is done by analyzing the point cloud that is measured on the feature. To that end, a geometric feature is fitted to the point cloud and the results are assessed to see whether the fitted features lies within the specified tolerance limits or not. Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) use feature fitting algorithms that incorporate least square estimates as a basis for obtaining minimum, maximum, and zone fits. However, a comprehensive set of algorithms addressing the fitting procedure (all datums, targets) for every tolerance class is not available. Therefore, a Library of algorithms is developed to aid the process of feature fitting, and tolerance verification. This paper addresses linear, planar, circular, and cylindrical features only. This set of algorithms described conforms to the international Standards for GD&T.In order to reduce the number of points to be analyzed, and to identify the possible candidate points for linear, circular and planar features, 2D and 3D convex hulls are used. For minimum, maximum, and Chebyshev cylinders, geometric search algorithms are used. Algorithms are divided into three major categories: least square, unconstrained, and constrained fits. Primary datums require one sided unconstrained fits for their verification. Secondary datums require one sided constrained fits for their verification. For size and other tolerance verifications we require both unconstrained and constrained fits.© 2013 ASME
An acoustic tracking of a megamouth shark, Megachasma pelagios: a crepuscular vertical migrator

A 4.9 m TL megamouth shark, only the sixth specimen known to science, was tracked continuously for 50.5 h, during which it exhibited distinct vertical migrations at the dawn and dusk transitions. The male shark was captured on 21 October 1990 in a drift gill net off Dana Point, California, restrained overnight in a harbor, and released at sea the next afternoon. Horizontally, the shark moved slowly southward, covering 62 km on a relatively straight path with no significant diel changes. For the major part of the tracking, its rate of movement was 1.15 km h−1, as determined from positions at 15 min intervals. Considering a probable head current of 10–25 cm sec−1, its estimated through-the-water swimming speed was more likely 1.5–2.1 km h−1 (X¯ = 1.8, representing 0.1 body lengths sec−1). Vertically, the shark stayed shallow at night (12–25 m depth range, X¯ = 17) and deep during the days (120–166 m, X¯ = 149) but still well above the bottom at 700–850 m. The four twilight depth-change events were very distinct and always spanned the times of sunset or sunrise. The ascent and descent profiles are a reasonble match to isolumes on the order of 0.4 lux for an extinction coefficient (0.07) calculated from water transparency measurements. Furthermore, the steepest parts of the shark's profiles correspond closely to the times of maximum rate-of-change of illumination. These findings suggest that, except during nights, the shark's chosen depth was to a large degree determined by light level.
A model-based approach for filtering and edge detection in noisy images

The authors consider the problem of enhancement and edge detection on noisy, real-world images. The restoration and edge detection framework is based on an autoregressive (AR) random-field model. An edge is detected if the first and second directional derivatives and a local estimate of the variance at each point satisfy certain criteria. When noise is present, a good estimate of the original from the noisy images improves the signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in better estimates of the directional derivatives. To avoid excessive computation, the problem of estimation of the original image and the model parameters is presented as a combination of a reduced-update Kalman filter and an adaptive-least-squares parameter estimation algorithm. The restoration process is completed with a min-max replacement scheme to enhance edge strength. An orientation-sensitive detector resulting from the use of an AR model may not detect edges of significantly different orientations. This is partially overcome by running four edge detectors on the four interior pixels of a 4*4 window; this corresponds to rotating the window in successive multiples of 90 degrees . Comparisons with R.M. Haralick's (1984) facet model edge detector, R. Nevatia and K.R. Babu's (1980) line finder, and J. Canny's (1986) edge detector are given. >
Effects of Photoperiod During the Dry Period on Cellular Immune Function of Dairy Cows

Recent studies suggest that exposure of cattle to photoperiod can influence immune function. The objective of this study was to determine whether treatment of cows with short day photoperiod (SDPP; 8 h light: 16 h darkness) during the dry period alters immune function, relative to cows subjected to a long day photoperiod (LDPP; 16 h light: 8 h darkness). Multiparous Holstein cows (n = 39) were dried 62 d before calving and exposed to photoperiod treatment until parturition; thereafter, cows were exposed to natural photoperiod. General health was monitored weekly during the dry period and cellular immune function was examined monthly during the dry period and at calving. Concentrations of prolactin and cortisol were measured from 10 d before calving to 2 d after calving. The periparturient prolactin surge in plasma was greater in LDPP cows (54.6 ng/ mL) than SDPP (22.4 ng/mL). Relative to LDPP cows, neutrophil chemotaxis and lymphocyte proliferation were enhanced in SDPP cows during the dry period. Neutrophil chemotaxis averaged 142.5 and 178.8 cells/ well during the dry period for LDPP and SDPP, respectively. Lymphocyte proliferation during the dry period averaged 197.6 and 326.5% for LDPP and SDPP cows, respectively. Physiological characteristics of the cows were not affected by treatment during the dry period. However, differences between treatments were observed within 2 d of parturition. Potential implications of photoperiod management for cow health and well-being merit further investigation.
Improving learning performance by applying economic knowledge

Digital information economies require information goods producers to learn how to position themselves within a potentially vast product space. Fur- ther, the topography of this space is often nonstationary, due to the interactive dynamics of multiple producers changing their positions as they try to learn the distribution of consumer preferences and other features of the problem's eco- nomic structure. This presents a producer or its agent with a difficult learning problem: how to locate profitable niches in a very large space. In this paper, we present a model of an information goods duopoly and show that, under complete information, producers would prefer not to compete, instead acting as local monopolists and targeting separate niches in the consumer popu- lation. However, when producers have no information about the problem they are solving, it can be quite difficult for them to converge on this solution. We show how a modest amount of economic knowledge about the problem can make it much easier, either by reducing the search space, starting in a useful area of the space, or introducing a gradient. These experiments support the hypothesis that a producer using some knowledge of a problem's (economic) structure can outper- form a producer that is performing a naive, knowledge-free form of learning.
Cost-Effectiveness of Medical and Chiropractic Care for Acute and Chronic Low Back Pain

Objectives To identify relative provider costs, clinical outcomes, and patient satisfaction for the treatment of low back pain (LBP). Methods This was a practice-based, nonrandomized, comparative study of patients self-referring to 60 doctors of chiropractic and 111 medical doctors in 51 chiropractic and 14 general practice community clinics over a 2-year period. Patients were included if they were at least 18 years old, ambulatory, and had low back pain of mechanical origin (n = 2780). Outcomes were (standardized) office costs, office costs plus referral costs for office-based care and advanced imaging, pain, functional disability, patient satisfaction, physical health, and mental health evaluated at 3 and 12 months after the start of care. Multiple regression analysis was used to correct for baseline differences between provider types. Results Chiropractic office costs were higher for both acute and chronic patients (P .20). Acute and chronic chiropractic patients experienced better outcomes in pain, functional disability, and patient satisfaction (P Conclusions Chiropractic care appeared relatively cost-effective for the treatment of chronic LBP. Chiropractic and medical care performed comparably for acute patients. Practice-based clinical outcomes were consistent with systematic reviews of spinal manipulation efficacy: manipulation-based therapy is at least as good as and, in some cases, better than other therapeusis. This evidence can guide physicians, payers, and policy makers in evaluating chiropractic as a treatment option for low back pain.
NMDAR LTP and LTD induction: 2B or Not 2B...is that the question?

NMDA receptor (NMDAR) dependent forms of synaptic plasticity are thought to play critical roles in many aspects of CNS function and dysfunction, from learning and memory to addiction. NMDARs are heteromeric tetramers principally comprised of two NR1 subunits and two of four varieties of NR2 subunits (NR2A-2D). Recently, it has been proposed that specific NR2 subtypes subserve distinct roles in NMDAR-dependent long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD). Here, we will review this literature, and describe an existing countervailing hypothesis, the charge-transfer hypothesis, which postulates that the total charge transfer through NMDARs, rather than specific subunits, dictates the polarity of synaptic plasticity. We will propose that a modification of the charge-transfer hypothesis, to include the possible involvement of protein-protein interactions imparted by distinct NR2 subunits, best fits the existing data.
Delivery of insulin to the buccal mucosa utilizing the RapidMist™ system

Background: The burgeoning number of people with diabetes mellitus is a global problem. Simple but effective treatment with minimal side effects will be required to reduce the risk for macro- and micro-vascular complications. A big part of this goal can be achieved by the ready administration of insulin with or without other medications. Methods: The RapidMist™ drug delivery system places human recombinant insulin in a liquid formulation so as to be delivered to the buccal mucosa with an asthma-like device. As with nitroglycerin, the insulin PK-PD is very fast, thus affording flexibility. Conclusion: Serial data show clinical efficacy in Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes with at least non-inferiority to regular insulin.
How might servant leadership work

This study examines the mechanics of servant leadership, particularly how it enhances organizational citizenship and how that drives organizational effectiveness. A case study of three successful Catholic parishes identified three direct leadership mechanisms—invitation, inspiration, and affection—that evoke and nurture the service of others. The case analysis also identified two organizational leadership mechanisms—culture building and structural initiatives—through which servant leaders fostered organizational citizenship. This study contributes to an understanding of organizational effectiveness by suggesting how leaders might foster the growth and development of others, build servant-oriented organizations, and improve overall organizational performance.
Effects of chronic treatment with selective and nonselective antagonists on the subtypes of dopamine receptors.

The effects of chronic blockade of D-1, D-2, or both subtypes of dopamine receptors on the densities and properties of the D-1 and D-2 subtypes of dopamine receptors were measured in rat brain. Animals were treated with 14 daily injections (i.p.) of the D-1-selective antagonist SCH-23390, the D-2-selective antagonist sulpiride, the nonselective antagonist fluphenazine, or vehicle. Serial 32-μm horizontal sections that included the caudate putamen were cut and alternately assigned to assays for D-1 or D-2 receptors. D-1 receptors were labeled with 3H-SKF-83566 or 3H-SCH-23390, and D-2 receptors were labeled with 3H-spiroperidol. Scatchard analysis was performed on the saturation data measured in the head of the caudate putamen to obtain estimates of receptor density. As expected, administration of the D-1-selective ligand SCH-23390 resulted in an increase in the density of D-1 receptors by approximately 47% and had no significant effect on the density of D-2 receptors. Similarly, administration of the D-2-selective ligand sulpiride resulted in an increase in the density of D-2 receptors by 25% and had no significant effect on the density of D-1 receptors. Thus the subtypes of dopamine receptors appear to be independently regulated after selective blockade. In contrast to the effects observed with selective antagonists, the results obtained with fluphenazine were more complex. Administration of the relatively nonselective antagonist fluphenazine resulted in an increase in the density of D-2 receptors by 51% but had no significant effect on the density of D-1 receptors. One explanation for this result is that up-regulation of D-2 receptors inhibits the regulation of D-1 receptors, suggesting that the regulation of subtypes of dopamine receptors is not entirely independent. In support of this hypothesis, coadministration of sulpiride with SCH-23390 attenuated the ability of SCH-23390 to up-regulate D-1 receptors. To determine whether this phenomenon is observed in other brain regions, a second group of animals was chronically treated with selective and nonselective antagonists as described above, and coronal sections were cut at multiple levels of the brain. Receptors were labeled with a single concentration of either 3H-SCH-23390 or 3H-spiroperidol, and the binding of the radioligands in 19 discrete brain regions was measured. The effects of these treatments on D-1 and D-2 receptors in most of these regions were similar to those described above for the caudate putamen.
Production cost and air emissions impacts of coal cycling in power systems with large-scale wind penetration

Wind power introduces variability into electric power systems. Due to the physical characteristics of wind, most of this variability occurs at inter-hour time-scales and coal units are therefore technically capable of balancing wind. Operators of coal-fired units have raised concerns that additional cycling will be prohibitively costly. Using PJM bid-data, we observe that coal operators are likely systematically under-bidding their startup costs. We then consider the effects of a 20% wind penetration scenario in the coal-heavy PJM West area, both when coal units bid business as usual startup costs, and when they bid costs accounting for the elevated wear and tear that occurs during cycling. We conclude that while 20% wind leads to increased coal cycling and reduced coal capacity factors under business as usual startup costs, including full startup costs shifts the burden of balancing wind onto more flexible units. This shift has benefits for CO2, NOX, and SO2 emissions as well as for the profitability of coal plants, as calculated by our dispatch model.
Scheduling flow-shops with limited buffer spaces

The work described in this paper attempts to validate the implicit assumption in traditional flow shop scheduling research that there is a buffer of infinite capacity between any two adjacent machines. The modified NEH (Nawaz, Encore and Ham) algorithm is used to generate an initial permutation schedule which is then improved by tabu search. For any given sequence, a limited equal buffer size is considered in computing job completion times. The scheduling objective is to minimize mean job flowtime. Computational results and analysis are presented. Through these simulation experiments, it was found that the improvement by tabu search can be significant and there is no need for more than 4 buffer spaces between any two adjacent machines. Future research directions are also discussed.