cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A New Machairodont from the Palmetto Fauna (Early Pliocene) of Florida, with Comments on the Origin of the Smilodontini (Mammalia, Carnivora, Felidae)

South-central Florida's latest Hemphillian Palmetto Fauna includes two machairodontine felids, the lion-sized Machairodus coloradensis and a smaller, jaguar-sized species, initially referred to Megantereon hesperus based on a single, relatively incomplete mandible. This made the latter the oldest record of Megantereon, suggesting a New World origin of the genus. Subsequent workers variously accepted or rejected this identification and biogeographic scenario. Fortunately, new material, which preserves previously unknown characters, is now known for the smaller taxon. The most parsimonious results of a phylogenetic analysis using 37 cranio-mandibular characters from 13 taxa place it in the Smilodontini, like the original study; however, as the sister-taxon to Megantereon and Smilodon. Accordingly, we formally describe Rhizosmilodon fiteae gen. et sp. nov. Rhizosmilodon, Megantereon, and Smilodon ( = Smilodontini) share synapomorphies relative to their sister-taxon Machairodontini: serrations smaller and restricted to canines; offset of P3 with P4 and p4 with m1; complete verticalization of mandibular symphysis; m1 shortened and robust with widest point anterior to notch; and extreme posterior "lean" to p3/p4. Rhizosmilodon has small anterior and posterior accessory cusps on p4, a relatively large lower canine, and small, non-procumbent lower incisors; all more primitive states than in Megantereon and Smilodon. The former also differs from Megantereon and Smilodon gracilis by having a very small mandibular flange. Rhizosmilodon is the oldest known member of the Smilodontini, suggesting that the tribe originated in North America. Two more derived, similar-sized species evolved in parallel during the Blancan, Megantereon hesperus and Smilodon gracilis. The former is rarer, known only from the north-central and northwestern US, and presumably dispersed into the Old World. The latter is known from the eastern and southern US, and dispersed into South America.
Can specialists reduce costs? The case of referrals to orthopaedic surgeons

This study investigates whether timely referral to specialists, in this case orthopaedic surgeons, potentially can reduce the costs of a health care episode. Five musculoskeletal diagnoses were chosen, and the diagnostic and treatment history of approximately 2500 persons with these five diagnoses was traced to determine when in the course of their treatment episode they were referred from nonorthopaedist to orthopaedist care and how much their episode of care cost. It was found that the average episodic costs for those who were referred earlier in the episode of care was lower than for those referred later. The implication is that there are likely to be numerous identifiable health conditions that should be flagged for early referral to specialists to reduce costs. It also questions the validity of the presumption that specialist care is necessarily more expensive.
Scheduling algorithms for serial multiproduct batch processes with tardiness penalties

Abstract Customer satisfaction is one of the most important considerations in the operation of many batch processes, but has received very little attention in research. In this paper, we consider the serial multi-product process with a single batch unit in each stage and with arbitrary intermediate storage policies. We present four heuristic algorithms for sequencing the production of a list of batches so as to minimize the total penalty due to late deliveries. Two algorithms employ an iterative improvement strategy, one uses simulated annealing, and one builds a good sequence from partial sequences. Simulated annealing gives the best results at the expense of large computation time, while an iterative algorithm is a close second.
Human Flt3L Generates Dendritic Cells from Canine Peripheral Blood Precursors: Implications for a Dog Glioma Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor in adults and carries a dismal prognosis. We have developed a conditional cytotoxic/immunotherapeutic approach using adenoviral vectors (Ads) encoding the immunostimulatory cytokine, human soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (hsFlt3L) and the conditional cytotoxic molecule, i.e., Herpes Simplex Type 1- thymide kinase (TK). This therapy triggers an anti-tumor immune response that leads to tumor regression and anti-tumor immunological memory in intracranial rodent cancer models. We aim to test the efficacy of this immunotherapy in dogs bearing spontaneous GBM. In view of the controversy regarding the effect of human cytokines on dog immune cells, and considering that the efficacy of this treatment depends on hsFlt3L-stimulated dendritic cells (DCs), in the present work we tested the ability of Ad-encoded hsFlt3L to generate DCs from dog peripheral blood and compared its effects with canine IL-4 and GM-CSF. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Our results demonstrate that hsFlT3L expressed form an Ad vector, generated DCs from peripheral blood cultures with very similar morphological and phenotypic characteristics to canine IL-4 and GM-CSF-cultured DCs. These include phagocytic activity and expression of CD11c, MHCII, CD80 and CD14. Maturation of DCs cultured under both conditions resulted in increased secretion of IL-6, TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma. Importantly, hsFlt3L-derived antigen presenting cells showed allostimulatory potential highlighting their ability to present antigen to T cells and elicit their proliferation. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE These results demonstrate that hsFlt3L induces the proliferation of canine DCs and support its use in upcoming clinical trials for canine GBM. Our data further support the translation of hsFlt3L to be used for dendritic cells' vaccination and gene therapeutic approaches from rodent models to canine patients and its future implementation in human clinical trials.
An investigation of some approximations involved in the theory of the interactions of particles and nuclei at high energies

We investigate the optical limit of the Glauber multiple-scattering theory by comparing this limit with results of explicit calculations in the theory, and show that to very small A, the optical-limit results are virtually indistinguishable from the exact ones. We also investigate the sensitivity of the theory to different choices of nuclear densities, and find that for small-angle coherent scattering, the theory is relatively insensitive to this choice, but that for incoherent scattering the dependence is somewhat greater. We finally examine the sensitivity of the value of the rho-nucleon total cross section to different choices of wave functions and different approximations in the theory and show that the changes in σϱN introduced by such considerations are ∼2< 15%, and hence too small to explain the discrepancies in the σϱN reported by different experimental groups.
A laser interferometric dilatometer for low-expansion materials

The development of a high-precision dilatometer based on interferometry presents a number of challenges. This paper describes a laser interferometric dilatometer developed for high-precision thermal expansion measurements in the materials laboratory. The Sandia dilatometer uses dual-beam laser interferometry with a computer-controlled optical alignment feature to achieve high-precision length change measurements. This device has been modified to expand its measurement capabilities in a number of areas. A new thermal chamber has been incorporated which provides a range of measurement from 90 to 500 K while minimizing thermal effects on the optical portion of the instrument. A new specimen holder has been developed to cover this temperature range while accommodating a wider variety of specimen types. In particular, thin (1-mm) composities may be employed in the holder, which uses a single specimen, with only modest shape and preparation requirements, to provide absolute length change measurements. Tilt errors limit the overall performance of dilatometers based on dual-beam interferometry. Significant improvements in precision were demonstrated by incorporating a unique optical system which independently measures specimen holder tilt; tilt errors were corrected and a length change resolution near 0.4μstrain was achieved. Expansion coefficient data obtained with the device agreed with established results on fused silica and stainless steel. New expansion data were obtained from 90 to 293 K on stainless steel, NBS Standard Reference Material 738.
The Advantages of a Mixed-Band Radar Network for Severe Weather Operations: A Case Study of 13 May 2009

AbstractAdding a mix of X- or C-band radars to the current Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) network could address several limitations of the network, including improvements to spatial gaps in low-level coverage and temporal sampling of volume scans. These limitations can result in missing critical information in highly dynamic events, such as tornadoes and severe straight-line wind episodes. To evaluate the potential value of a mixed-band radar network for severe weather operations, a case study is examined using data from X- and S-band radars. On 13 May 2009, a thunderstorm complex associated with a cold front moved southward into southwest Oklahoma. A tornado rapidly developed from an embedded supercell within the complex. The life cycle of the tornado and subsequent wind event was sampled by the experimental Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere (CASA) radar testbed of four X-band radars as well as two operational WSR-88Ds. In this study, the advantages of a mixed-band radar...
Impact of race and chronic kidney disease on 1-year outcome in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions: A single tertiary center experience

Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a predictor of morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs), and African American (AA) patients have been reported to have worse outcomes after PCI. Methods We assessed whether CKD affects the rate of death and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE = myocardial infarction, revascularization, and death) differently in AA and white (CC) patients 1 year after PCI. Accordingly, we reviewed the database of all patients referred for PCI in the Emory Healthcare System between January 2001 and December 2004. Results We identified 800 CC and 116 AA patients with CKD among 4,372 patients referred for PCI. Chronic kidney disease was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 2 ) calculated by means of the Cockcroft-Gault equation. The AA patients with CKD were younger and had a larger number of comorbidities than the CC subjects. However, neither mortality nor MACE differed between races (14.7% vs 13.1%, P = .65 and 31.9% vs 31.3%, P = .89, respectively). In multivariable models, eGFR and emergency PCI were the best predictors of any adverse event, whereas prior PCI or coronary artery bypass surgery was a predictor of MACE alone. A test for interaction failed to show a significant effect of race and CKD on outcome. Conclusions In a tertiary referral center, AA and CC patients with CKD had a similar mortality rate and MACE at 1 year after PCI. Race was not a determinant of outcome, whereas CKD was.
Effects of coriolis acceleration on the free and forced in-plane vibrations of rotating rings on elastic foundation

Abstract The vibration of rotating rings is investigated. The equations of motion that cover both transverse and tangential motion are derived from Hamilton's principle. The natural frequencies and modes are then obtained without using the inextensional assumption and an attempt is made to interpret the time dependent natural modes from various viewpoints. The effect of rotation and elastic foundation on system characteristics is examined. Most important, a general solution for forced vibration is formulated and demonstrated by an example. The effect of the Coriolis acceleration component on the forced response is illustrated by comparing the results for a travelling force on a stationary ring with results for a rotating ring subjected to a stationary force.
Common Features and Design Principles Found in Exemplary Educational Technologies

As part of a larger project for the NASA-sponsored Classroom of the Futureâ„¢ to benchmark the effectiveness of educational technologies, researchers used multiple data sources to develop a list of exemplars and delineate common design features. The exemplars included promising educational technologies, tools, Web sites, resources, software, and hardware. Each exemplar was placed into one of six categories: knowledge and comprehension tools, interactive technologies and problem-solving tools, product-creation tools, efficiency and productivity tools, communication and collaboration tools, and technology tutors. The features of each exemplar were described, and a set of common design principles for that category was developed.
Epitaxy, interfacial energy and atomic structure of Au/TiO2 interfaces

In this paper, we review results on epitaxial orientation relationship, interfacial energy and atomistic studies of Au/TiO2 interface with in particular the model Au//(1 1 0)TiO2 system. The review is limited to contributions made by electron microscopy and diffraction techniques. Experimental results are also compared to theoretical studies with the aim of providing an understanding of the atomic structure of Au/TiO2 interfaces in connection to the observed high catalytic properties of supported Au catalysts.
TERRA, hnRNP A1, and DNA-PKcs Interactions at Human Telomeres

Maintenance of telomeres, repetitive elements at eukaryotic chromosomal termini, and the end-capping structure and function they provide, are imperative for preserving genome integrity and stability. The discovery that telomeres are transcribed into telomere repeat containing RNA (TERRA) has revolutionized our view of this repetitive, rather unappreciated region of the genome. We have previously shown that the non-homologous end-joining, shelterin associated DNA dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) participates in mammalian telomeric end-capping, exclusively at telomeres created by leading-strand synthesis. Here, we explore potential roles of DNA-PKcs and its phosphorylation target heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNP A1) in the localization of TERRA at human telomeres. Evaluation of co-localized foci utilizing RNA-FISH and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction strategies provided evidence that both inhibition of DNA-PKcs kinase activity and siRNA depletion of hnRNP A1 result in accumulation of TERRA at individual telomeres; depletion of hnRNP A1 also resulted in increased frequencies of fragile telomeres. These observations are consistent with previous demonstrations that decreased levels of the nonsense RNA-mediated decay factors SMG1 and UPF1 increase TERRA at telomeres and interfere with replication of leading-strand telomeres. We propose that hTR mediated stimulation of DNA-PKcs and subsequent phosphorylation of hnRNP A1 influences the cell cycle dependent distribution of TERRA at telomeres by contributing to the removal of TERRA from telomeres, an action important for progression of S-phase, and thereby facilitating efficient telomere replication and end-capping.
Remission of PTSD after victims of intimate partner violence leave a shelter.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant public health problem associated with high rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Few longitudinal studies have investigated IPV-related PTSD and we know of only 1 longitudinal study to date that has explored IPV-related PTSD in residents of battered women's shelters. The current report describes a prospective study of IPV-related PTSD in an initial sample of 147 residents of battered women's shelters. Baseline correlates of remission of IPV-related PTSD (i.e., PTSD and IPV severity, loss of personal and social resources, cessation of abuse, reunion with abuser, and length of shelter stay) over a 6-month follow-up period were investigated. Although findings are consistent with prior research suggesting a natural recovery of PTSD in IPV-victims, they also show that a significant number (46.8%) of women exhibit chronic PTSD. Participants whose PTSD remitted over follow-up had at baseline less severe IPV-related PTSD (partial η(2) = .104) and fewer loss of personal and social resources (partial η(2) = .095), and were less likely to reunite with their abuser after leaving the shelter than participants with chronic PTSD (3.3% and 22.4%, respectively). Clinical implications and limitations of findings are discussed. Language: en
Arsenic intoxication associated with tubulointerstitial nephritis

Arsenic poisoning is an often unrecognized cause of renal insufficiency. We report a case of tubulointerstitial nephritis associated with an elevated urinary arsenic concentration. Removal of the putative source of arsenic resulted in symptomatic improvement, resolution of abnormal abdominal radiographs, and stabilization of renal function. This case emphasizes the importance of heavy metal screening in patients with multisystem complaints and tubulointerstitial nephritis.
Minimum gaseous sulphur dioxide concentrations and exposure periods to control Botrytis cinerea.

Abstract Sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ) concentrations required to kill the spores and mycelium of Botrytis cinerea and control post-harvest decay of fresh grapes were determined in chamber studies. Effective concentrations and exposure times were simulataneously expressed in a single dosage term, parts per million-hours (p.p.m.-h). This unit is the product of the concentration of SO 2 in parts per million multiplied by the duration of the fumigation in hours. SO 2 dosages that killed 99% of the spores (ED 99 ) were 78.3 ± 22.3 p.p.m.-h at 0°C and 20.3± 2.0 p.p.m.-h at 20°C. These values were determined with continuous concentrations of 25, 50, 100 and 200 p.p.m. SO 2 at high humidity. The mycelium on the surface of infected berries was injured by dosages of 10 p.p.m.-h and was no longer viable after fumigation with dosages of 50–100 p.p.m.-h at 0°C. Infection of inoculated berries at 0°C compared with the controls was 68, 47, 2 and 0% after dosages of 20, 50, 100 and 200 p.p.m.-h, respectively. Reduction in the percentage infection after spore inoculation of berries required a larger dosage (∼ 100 p.p.m.-h) than that which controlled mycelial growth (∼ 50 p.p.m.-h). For initial fumigation of grapes after harvest, where control of spores on the surface of grapes is required, 100 p.p.m.-h should be sufficient; for subsequent storage fumigations where control of mycelial growth from latent infections is required, 50 p.p.m.-h should be sufficient. Colorimetric dosimeters have been developed to quantify exposures of humans to SO 2 rapidly and inexpensively for safety purposes. They consist of a sealed glass tube containing a colour-indicating substrate that reacts with SO 2 to produce a coloured product. One end of the tube is opened before use, and the length of the colour change indicates the accumulated dosage in units of p.p.m.-h. They should be placed inside grape packages before fumigation and examined promptly after fumigation. Their accuracy was sufficient for determination of adequacy of SO 2 dosages to control decay.
A characterization of Cauchy kernels.

If Φ is a function of one variable, itsnth order Cauchy kernel is defined by $$\mathop K\limits_n \Phi (x_1 ,...,x_n ) = \sum\limits_{r = 1}^n {( - 1)^{n - r} \sum\limits_{\left| J \right| = r} {\Phi (x_J )} }$$ where ∅ ≠J $$ \subseteq$$ I n = {1, 2,⋯,n} andx J = ∑ j ∈ J x j . Iff is a function ofn variable, itsith partial Cauchy kernel of ordern, $$\mathop K\limits_n^{(i)} f$$ , is its Cauchy kernel of ordern with respect to its ith variable with all the other variables held fixed. Forn = 2 the Kurepa functional equation can be expressed by $$\begin{gathered} \mathop K\limits_2^{(1)} f(x_1 ,x_2 ;x_3 ) = f(x_1 + x_2 ,x_3 ) - f(x_1 ,x_3 ) - f(x_2 ,x_3 ) \hfill \\ {\mathbf{ }} = f(x_1 ,x_2 + x_3 ) - f(x_1 ,x_2 ) - f(x_1 ,x_3 ) = \mathop K\limits_2^{(2)} f(x_1 ,x_2 ,x_3 ) \hfill \\\end{gathered} $$ . Here it is shown that (*) $$\mathop K\limits_2^{(i)} f = \mathop K\limits_2^{(j)} f{\mathbf{ }}for{\mathbf{ }}i,j = 1,2,...,n$$ characterizes symmetric functions of the formf = $$\mathop K\limits_n$$ Φ and that the general solution of (*) is given byf = $$\mathop K\limits_n$$ Φ +A whereA isn-multiadditive with ∑ σ ∈Sn A(x σ(1),⋯,x σ(n) )=0.
ANTIBODY RESPONSE IN SPLENECTOMIZED MONKEYS.

SummarySplenectomized monkeys showed antibody responses similar to normal monkeys after subcutaneous inoculation with tularemia and typhoid vaccines and after intravenous typhoid vaccine. Impaired antibody response followed a single intravenous inoculation of sheep erythrocytes as well as after a single booster, but not after 3 daily intravenous injections.
Probing Prefrontal Function in Schizophrenia With Neuropsychological Paradigms

In a recent series of studies we have attempted to clarify the nature of intellectual impairment in schizophrenia, and in particular, how patterns of dysfunction implicate specific neural systems. First, we found that acute psychotic adolescent patients displayed the same pattern of IQ scores (Performance less than Verbal) as adult chronic schizophrenic patients. We explored this deficit in problem solving by studying the performance of schizophrenic patients after receiving concrete and explicit instructions on how to do the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, a task thought to be mediated by prefrontal cortex. We then studied the differential impact such a deficit in problem-solving strategies might have on a task thought to elicit both cognitive (prefrontal) and procedural or motor-skill (basal ganglia) processing. Procedural components appeared to be relatively more intact. We also addressed schizophrenic patients' ability to learn in other (extrafrontal) cognitive domains through verbal memory tasks and block design puzzles. Learning occurred under both conditions. We believe the overall pattern of deficit implicates primarily prefrontal neural systems, though a number of other neuropsychological functions are yet to be surveyed.
Motivational factors, school atmosphere, and SES: Determinants of children's probability task performance

Abstract Motivational aspects of probability learning performance were examined in 106 third- and fourth-grade children, sampled from three schools. Several measurement modalities were used to assess children's motivational levels. The relationship between probability learning scores and motivational constructs was found to be strongly influenced by socioeconomic status (SES) as well as by school atmosphere Unlike their middle-class counterparts, lower SES children with an internal locus of control made fewer maximizing responses, displaying an unwillingness to settle quickly for lower amounts of reinforcement. Additionally, in the most strict of the three schools, children with high success expectancies made fewer attempts at different patterns of response, reflecting lower tendencies to explore in searching for maximal reinforcement. The effects obtained were interpreted in terms of sociodemographic influences on children's motivational structures, and in terms of possibility varying cannotations of probability learning scores across different subject populations.
The burden of depressive symptoms in the long-term treatment of patients with schizophrenia.

Objective To prospectively measure the link between depressive symptoms and functional outcomes in the long-term treatment of people with schizophrenia.
Structural biology: One domain, multiple conformations

Conformational transitions triggered by the binding of neurotransmitters open the gate of the ion channel domain of glutamate receptors, regulating the transmission of information through the nervous system. Using single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer (smFRET), the agonist-binding domain of the GluA2 receptor, isolated in solution, is observed to interconvert among distinct large-scale conformational states.
Alpha- and beta-migratory insertion and elimination processes for alkyl complexes of permethyl-scandocene and permethyltantalocene

Abstract Beta-migratory insertion and elimination processes for alkyl derivatives of permethylscandocene, (η 5 -C 5 Me 5 ) 2 Sc-R, have been investigated. Ethylene is rapidly polymerized at −80 °C by (η 5 -C 5 Me 5 ) 2 Sc-R (R = H, CH 3 , CH 2 CH 3 , CH 2 CH 2 CH 3 , etc.) without the need for a co-catalyst. The relative rates of ethylene insertion into scandium-alkyl bonds and the propensity for β-H elimination to afford olefin and (η 5 -C 5 Me 5 ) 2 Sc-H are found to depend critically on the nature of R. With less sterically encumbered scandocene compounds ( e.g. [(η 5 -C 5 Me 4 )SiMe 2 (η 5 -C 5 Me 4 )]Sc-H), α-olefins are oligomerized selectively to the 'head-to-tail' dimers, and catalytic cyclization of 1,5-hexadiene or 1,6-heptadiene to methylenecyclopentane or methylenecyclohexane is observed. Both α- and β-migratory insertion and elimination processes, which interconvert alkyl with alkylidene hydride or olefin hydride derivatives of permethyltantalocene ( i.e. [(η 5 -C 5 Me 5 ) 2 -Ta-X-R] ⇌ (η 5 -C 5 Me 5 ) 2 Ta(=X)R (X = alkylidene, olefin; R = H, alkyl)), have been examined. For a complex with the alkyl substituent appended from a cyclopentadienyl ligand, [(η 5 -C 5 Me 5 )(η 5 ,η 1 -C 5 Me 4 CH 2 CH 2 CH 2 )Ta], the relative rates of α-H and β-H elimination have been measured, and, significantly, α-H elimination is found to be 10 8 times faster than β-H elimination at 100 °C. The relative rates of the hydrogen and methyl migrations to alkylidene, benzyne and olefin ligands have been determined. Related α and β elimination processes have been examined for some alkoxide, thiolate and amide derivatives, [η 5 -C 5 Me 5 ) 2 Ta-YCH 3 ] (Y = O, S, NCH 3 ).
Residual topography, lithospheric structure and sunken slabs in the central Mediterranean

Abstract The central Mediterranean comprises subduction, collision, and backarc extension, all in a relatively small area. In this paper, we analyze the topography of this region, examining the influence of subducting slabs on overriding plates. We take the observed surface elevation, remove the contribution of the crust to it and use the residual topography to identify regions that are unusually low, unusually high, or normal. Then, we calculate lithospheric thickness where local isostasy applies. The results provide information about the structure of the lithosphere in this complex region and about the vertical tectonics. In particular, we found a difference between the south Tyrrhenian subduction zone and the Apennines, consistent with the processes of slab rollback and slab break-off, respectively. In the south Tyrrhenian the edge of the oceanic plate is strongly pulled down whereas the edge of the overriding plate (the Calabrian Peninsula) is uplifted. This opposite trend indicates weak plate coupling – that is, the subducting slab, which is rapidly rolling back, hangs almost entirely on the oceanic plate and the overriding plate is free. In contrast, in the Apennines high residual topography and uplifting are detected on both sides of the mountain belt, consistent with complete break-off of the subducted lithosphere.
Steady State Distribution of an Ideal Cluster of Galaxies for Negative Cosmological Constants

Die raumliche Verteilung eines idealisierten Galaxienhaufens im Gleichgewichtszustand wird fur verschiedene negative kosmologische Konstanten numerisch berechnet, wobei die Haufenmitglieder als punktformige Objekte gleicher Masse betrachtet werden. Dies stellt eine Erweiterung der klassischen isothermen LANE-EMDEN-Kugel fur negative kosmologische Konstanten dar. Space distribution of an ideal cluster of galaxies in steady state for various negative cosmological constants is solved numerically. The galaxy members in the ideal cluster are considered point objects with equal masses. This is an extension of the classical LANE-EMDEN isothermal sphere to negative cosmological constant.
On the existence of uniformly optimally reliable networks

A well-known model for network reliability studies consists of an undirected graph with perfectly reliable nodes and equal and independent edge failure probabilities. The measure of reliability is then defined to be the probability that the graph is connected. A well-defined synthesis problem is to find the graph that minimizes the failure probability given the number of nodes n, the number of edges e, and the edge failure rate ρ. In this work, we consider the possibility of the existence of a fixed graph that is optimal for all possible ρ. It is simple to verify that such graphs exist when e = n − 1, or n. Herein, we show that they also exist when e = n + 1 and n + 2.
A Model for Predicting the Depth of the Mixing Layer Over an Urban Heat Island with Applications to New York City

Abstract Over a city within a mixing layer, pollutants tend to be homogeneously distributed in the vertical. A means of predicting the depth of the mixing layer is therefore important for air pollution predictions. In this study a simple advective thermodynamic model was used to predict the depth of this layer over the New York urban area for five early morning periods which were characterized by synoptic-scale inversions. In the model, the wind was assumed constant in time and space and the lapse rate within the mixing layer assumed to be adiabatic. The model is essentially the same as the one proposed by Summers except for the addition of two “heat-sink” terms. These terms reduce the artificial heat available to the air and allow one to consider the effects of cooling downwind of an urban area. In this study their magnitude was about 30% of the magnitude of the artificial heat release in the New York City region. Correlation coefficients between observed and predicted mixing depths for the five non-summ...
A Measurement of the Cosmic-Ray Antiproton Flux and a Search for Antihelium

A balloon-borne instrument has measured the cosmic-ray antiproton flux between 130 and 320 MeV and searched for antihelium between 130 and 370 MeV per nuclear. These particles were selected from the background of normal-matter cosmic rays by combining a selective trigger with a detailed spark chamber visualization of each recorded event. Antiprotons are identified by their characteristic annihilation radiation. Residue from background processes meeting the selection criteria is small. The observed 14 antiprotons yield a measured differential flux of 1.7±0.5X 10^(-4) antiprotons m^(-2) sr(-1) s^(-1)i Mev^(-1) at the top of the atmosphere. The corresponding antiproton/pro-ton ratio is 2.2±0.6X10^(-4), only slightly smaller than the ratio observed by other experiments at higher energies. Thus the antiprotons have a spectral shape similar to the protons, at least down to about 100 MeV. The expected flux of these particles can be calculated under the assumption that they were created by collisions of high-energy cosmic rays with the interstellar gas. Calculations using the standard leaky box model for propagation in the Galaxy predict a flux two orders of magnitude smaller than that observed. A small low-energy flux is predicted due to a kinematic suppression of the production of low-energy antiprotons. The discrepancy between calculations and experiment may be evidence that cosmic-ray protons have passed through substantially more than 5 g cm^(-2) of material during their lifetime. In addition, the combined results from this experiment and previous ones may be evidence for stochastic, energy-changing processes in interstellar space which act upon the secondary antiprotons after their creation. The search for cosmic-ray antihelium sets a 95% confidence level upper limit on the He /He ratio of 2.2 X 10^(-5).
FISH TAPHONOMY AND ENVIRONMENTAL INFERENCE IN PALEOLIMNOLOGY

Abstract The contribution of fish studies to palaeoecology generally takes the form of (1) inference from analogies in modern fish faunas and (2) fish taphonomy—the pattern of death and dispersal of bones. (1) Modern fish faunas and associated organisms provide taxonomic, ecological, or functional analogues for interpretation of ancient limiting factors and behaviors. These inferences presume taxonomic conservatism. They also presume functional relationships between morphological form and feeding mode or habitat. They become weak with increased geologic age or phyletic distance between ancient subject and modern anaogue. (2) Fish taphonomy may contribute information about limnology, community composition, life history, mortality, depositional environment, and preservation. Taphonomic reconstruction of ecology and preservation depends on the applicability of analogous processes in modern ecology and l limnology. In aquatic taphonomy, temperature is the most important factor in determining the fate of a carcass. Above about 16°C (depending on depth and pressure), most carcasses are made buoyant by bacterial decay gases and are transported to the surface where they may decay further and fall piecemeal into deepwater environments, or drift to beach environments where wave energy disarticulates, abrades, and scatters the bones. Below about 16°C, most carcasses remain on the bottom until buried; they may be disturbed by scavengers, depending on oxygen concentration in the hypolimnion.
Cutaneous lichen amyloidosis in a family with familial medullary thyroid cancer.

A 39-YEAR-OLDWOMAN of Indian descent was referred to our department after her primary medical doctor palpated bilateral thyroid nodules (1.7 cm right, 2 cm left) and noted an interscapular hyperpigmented cutaneous lesion. Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) was diagnosed after bilateral fine-needle aspirations were performed; the specimen tested positive for calcitonin staining. A biopsy of the skin lesion revealed hyperkeratosis and deposits of amorphous amyloid-like material immediately beneath and in contiguity with the dermoepidermal junction. The amyloid-like material tested positive for cytokeratin 903. Her serum calcitonin was elevated at 1845 pg/mL (reference range <4). A 24-hour urinary catecholamine screen was negative, as was a preoperative computed tomography scan of the neck, chest, and abdomen. The patient was tested for the RET proto-oncogene, which was positive for a mutation at codon 634. Specifically, 2 nucleotide changes were detected at the first and second nucleotide positions. A diagnosis of familial MTC was also confirmed by family history (Fig 1). The patient’s mother, at approximately 40 years of age, under-
Development and Evaluation of a High Loading PM2.5 Speciation Sampler

A high loading sampler for the chemical characterization of fine particles (PM 2.5 ) was developed and validated through laboratory and field experiments. This speciation sampler consists of two identical serially connected impaction stages to remove particles larger than 2.5 μm, following by a chamber to allow use of one or two all-glass honeycomb diffusion denuders, and a holder for a 47 mm filter. Two configurations of the sampler allow sampling at flows of 10 lpm and 16.7 lpm. System performance was evaluated in laboratory experiments using artificially generated polydisperse aerosols. This novel sampler provides a much larger mass loading capacity than previous impactors that use flat, rigid substrate surfaces. The polyurethane foam (PUF) substrate maintains adequate performance characteristics (retention of size cut-off, sharpness of cut-off curve, and minimal particle bounce and re-entrainments) at loadings of at least 35 mg. This is equivalent to 728 μg/m3 for a 48 h sampling period (or 500 h of s...
Chemical and structural characterization of interstrand cross-links formed between abasic sites and adenine residues in duplex DNA.

A new type of interstrand DNA–DNA cross-link between abasic (Ap) sites and 2 � -deoxyadenosine (dA) residues was recently reported, but the chemical structure and properties of this lesion were not rigorously established. Here we characterized the nucleoside cross-link remnant released by enzymatic digestion of duplex DNA containing the dA-Ap crosslink. A synthetic standard was prepared for the putative nucleoside cross-link remnant 6 in which the anomeric carbon of the 2-deoxyribose residue was connected to the exocyclic N 6 -amino group of dA. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis showed that the synthetic material 6 matched the authentic cross-link remnant released by enzymatic digestion of cross-linked DNA. These findings establish the chemical structure of the dA-Ap cross-link released from duplex DNA and may provide methods for the detection of this lesion in cellular DNA. Both the nucleoside cross-link remnant 6 and the cross-link in duplex DNA were quite stable at pH 7 and 37 ◦ C, suggesting that the dA-Ap
Corticotropin-releasing factor--induced adrenocorticotropic hormone release in the sheep fetus: blockade by cortisol.

Abstract We administered intravenous injections of synthetic ovine corticotropin-releasing factor to chronically cannulated sheep fetuses and monitored fetal plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone and cortisol concentrations. The three doses of corticotropin-releasing factor used (10, 100, or 1000 ng · kg −1 ) increased fetal plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone; fetal plasma cortisol levels rose with the highest dose of corticotropin-releasing factor. Administration of corticotropin-releasing factor at these concentrations did not change fetal heart rate or blood pressure. Elevation of fetal plasma cortisol levels to 40 to 80 ng · ml −1 by infusions of the steroid blocked the adrenocorticotropic hormone responses to all three doses of corticotropin-releasing factor. These data indicate that corticotropin-releasing factor can increase plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone concentrations in the late-gestation fetus and that these increases can be blocked by elevations in fetal plasma cortisol levels within a physiologic range. This suggests that cortisol modulates adrenocorticotropic hormone release by the fetal pituitary gland late in gestation.
Diagnostic Verification of the IRI Net Assessment Forecasts, 1997-2000

The International Research Institute (IRI) for Climate Prediction produces operational outlooks for seasonal (3-month periods) average temperature and for total precipitation, at lead times of 0 and 3 months (Mason et al. 1999). These outlooks are probabilistic in nature and subjectively produced. During the 1997‐2000 period considered here, two seasonal forecasts, at 0- and 3month lead times, were produced 4 times per year. The forecast quantities are three-dimensional vectors specifying probabilities of temperature or precipitation outcomes falling in the lower (‘‘below normal’’), middle (‘‘near normal’’), and upper (‘‘above normal’’) thirds of the respective climatological distributions appropriate to particular seasons and locations; at global land (excluding Antarctica) and nearby ocean locations. For precipitation, these IRI forecasts began in late 1997, and are available for October‐November‐December (OND) 1997 and January‐February‐March (JFM) 1998 onward, for the 0- and 3-month leads, respectively. The temperature forecasts began one season later, and
Regulation of biliary secretion through apical purinergic receptors in cultured rat cholangiocytes

To evaluate whether ATP in bile serves as a signaling factor regulating ductular secretion, voltage-clamp studies were performed using a novel normal rat cholangiocyte (NRC) model. In the presence ...
A novel aldehyde dehydrogenase-3 activator leads to adult salivary stem cell enrichment in vivo

Purpose: To assess aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) expression in adult human and murine submandibular gland (SMG) stem cells and to determine the effect of ALDH3 activation in SMG stem cell enrichment. Experimental Design: Adult human and murine SMG stem cells were selected by cell surface markers (CD34 for human and c-Kit for mouse) and characterized for various other stem cell surface markers by flow cytometry and ALDH isozymes expression by quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR. Sphere formation and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdUrd) incorporation assays were used on selected cells to confirm their renewal capacity and three-dimensional (3D) collagen matrix culture was applied to observe differentiation. To determine whether ALDH3 activation would increase stem cell yield, adult mice were infused with a novel ALDH3 activator (Alda-89) or with vehicle followed by quantification of c-Kit + /CD90 + SMG stem cells and BrdUrd + salispheres. Results: More than 99% of CD34 + huSMG stem cells stained positive for c-Kit, CD90 and 70% colocalized with CD44, Nestin. Similarly, 73.8% c-Kit + mSMG stem cells colocalized with Sca-1, whereas 80.7% with CD90. Functionally, these cells formed BrdUrd + salispheres, which differentiated into acinar- and ductal-like structures when cultured in 3D collagen. Both adult human and murine SMG stem cells showed higher expression of ALDH3 than in their non–stem cells and 84% of these cells have measurable ALDH1 activity. Alda-89 infusion in adult mice significantly increased c-Kit + /CD90 + SMG population and BrdUrd + sphere formation compared with control. Conclusion: This is the first study to characterize expression of different ALDH isozymes in SMG stem cells. In vivo activation of ALDH3 can increase SMG stem cell yield, thus providing a novel means for SMG stem cell enrichment for future stem cell therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 17(23); 7265–72. ©2011 AACR .
Fictitious potential for 3-D magnetic flux plots

A new convenient method of showing 3-D magnetic flux lines on a plane is presented. It reduces a cross-section to an equivalent 2-D plane and thereafter treats it as one would a 2-D vector potential problem.
Contamination of raw poultry meat by airborne Listeria originating from a floor drain

SUMMARY Poultry processing plants can become colonized with Listeria monocytogenes, resulting in long-term residence in floor drains. Earlier work showed that water spray into a contaminated floor drain causes airborne dissemination of a nonvirulent surrogate, Listeria innocua. The objective of the current study was to determine the extent to which a hose spray can result in the transfer of L. innocua from an established floor drain biofilm to raw poultry meat. Model floor drains were inoculated and subjected to a 2-s water spray during which broiler breast fillets were left uncovered on a table 2.4 m away. Other fillets were indirectly exposed by placement on the table 10 min after the drain spray. The number of Listeria on each fillet was determined on the day of exposure and after 4 d of refrigerated storage. An average of approximately 18 Listeria cells was detected per air-exposed filet; about half that number was detected on indirectly exposed fillets. The number of Listeria did not change substantially during 4 d of cold storage. An inadvertent 2-s spray into a contaminated floor drain could result in transfer of low numbers of Listeria to raw meat on a work surface.
Informal Lawmaking in England by the Twelve Judges in the Late Eighteenth and Early Nineteenth Centuries

In 1848, Parliament created the Court for Crown Cases Reserved, in which all of the common law judges heard and decided questions reserved by trial judges in criminal cases. As Sir John Baker explains, this was “a court of record, which would now sit in public and give reasons for its decisions,” even though “the reservation of cases was still at the discretion of the trial judge and the court did not have the powers of the court en banc in civil cases.”
A programmatic approach to improving the health of poor children.

There is a consensus among policy makers, physicians, child health care advocated, and the general public on the need for federal action to improve the health care delivery system for poor children. What should be done, how it will be done, and who will be responsible remains a controversy. This article addresses the problems and potential of the Early and Periodic Screening Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) Program within the context of Medicaid, and proposes a programmatic strategy to make EPSDT more effective.
Limb immobilization and corticobasal syndrome

Background Recently, we evaluated two patients with corticobasal syndrome (CBS) who reported symptom onset after limb immobilization. Our objective was to investigate the association between trauma, immobilization and CBS.
Glycosylation inhibitors and neuraminidase enhance human immunodeficiency virus type 1 binding and neutralization by mannose-binding lectin.

Mannose-binding lectin (MBL), a C-type lectin component of the human innate immune system, binds to the gp120 envelope glycoprotein of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). The objective of this study was to assess the effects of inhibitors of endoplasmic reticulum glucosidases and Golgi mannosidase as well as neuraminidase (NA) on the interaction between HIV and MBL. Production of HIV in the presence of the mannosidase I inhibitor deoxymannojirimycin (dMM) significantly enhanced binding of HIV to MBL and increased MBL neutralization of an M-tropic HIV primary isolate. In contrast, culturing HIV in the presence of α-glucosidase I and II inhibitors castanospermine and deoxynojirimycin only slightly affected virus binding and neutralization by MBL. Removal of sialic acid from HIV by NA also significantly enhanced virus binding and neutralization by MBL. Treatment of virus grown in the presence of dMM with endoglycosidase F1 substantially reduced binding to MBL, indicating that dMM increased MBL binding by increasing high-mannose carbohydrates on the virus. In contrast, endoglycosidase F1 did not decrease the MBL interaction with NA-treated virus, suggesting that NA exposed novel MBL binding sites. Treatment with dMM increased the immunocapture of HIV by monoclonal antibodies 2F5 and 2G12, indicating that altering the glycosylation of viral glycoproteins increases the accessibility or reactivity of some epitopes. This study shows that specific alterations of the N-linked carbohydrates on HIV gp120/gp41 can enhance MBL-mediated neutralization of virus by strengthening the interaction of HIV-1 with MBL.
Algorithmic extraction of BSDL from 1149.1-compliant sample ICs

BSDL files are essential for boundary-scan testing. However, they are hard to obtain, and frequently incorrect. We describe a tool which automatically extracts a basic BSDL file from a sample IC.
Power Control of High Speed Network Interconnects in Data Centers

With continuing speed increases of communication links found both inside and outside the servers in a data center, link power management is becoming an important issue. In this paper we examine width control of such links and show that it provides substantial benefits over other methods for latency sensitive applications. The paper also presents the design of a specific width control algorithm called DWCA (dynamic width control algorithm) that is effective and easily implemented in hardware at high data rates.
The Skindex Instruments to Measure the Effects of Skin Disease on Quality of Life

Skindex-29 and Skindex-16 are validated measures of the effects of skin diseases on patients' quality of life. This article reviews the development of both versions of Skindex, discusses their measurement properties and interpretability, and gives examples of how they have been used and adapted for dermatologic research internationally. Studies of quality of life in patients with nonmelanoma skin cancer are described to illustrate the use of Skindex to understand quality of life and to compare effectiveness of different treatments for this highly prevalent condition.
The Negotiation Checklist: How to win the battle before it begins.

Abstract Being well-prepared going into a negotiation is key to being successful when you come out. This negotiation checklist is a tool that can maximize your preparation effectiveness and efficiency.