cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Minimizing the Semantic Gap in Biomedical Content-Based Image Retrieval

A major challenge in biomedical Content-Based Image Retrieval (CBIR) is to achieve meaningful mappings that minimize the semantic gap between the high-level biomedical semantic concepts and the low-level visual features in images. This paper presents a comprehensive learning-based scheme toward meeting this challenge and improving retrieval quality. The article presents two algorithms: a learning-based feature selection and fusion algorithm and the Ranking Support Vector Machine (Ranking SVM) algorithm. The feature selection algorithm aims to select 'good' features and fuse them using different similarity measurements to provide a better representation of the high-level concepts with the low-level image features. Ranking SVM is applied to learn the retrieval rank function and associate the selected low-level features with query concepts, given the ground-truth ranking of the training samples. The proposed scheme addresses four major issues in CBIR to improve the retrieval accuracy: image feature extraction, selection and fusion, similarity measurements, the association of the low-level features with high-level concepts, and the generation of the rank function to support high-level semantic image retrieval. It models the relationship between semantic concepts and image features, and enables retrieval at the semantic level. We apply it to the problem of vertebra shape retrieval from a digitized spine x-ray image set collected by the second National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES II). The experimental results show an improvement of up to 41.92% in the mean average precision (MAP) over conventional image similarity computation methods.
Semiparametric regression approach to adjusting for meteorological variables in air pollution trends

A semiparametric regression model is used to analyze relationships between ambient ozone, related meteorological predictor variables, and time trends. This model enjoys a number of advantages over alternatives. The model produces outputs that parallel the outputs of linear regression but without forcing the structure of linear regression upon the data. Instead, the abundant data are allowed to determine the form of the model as in other nonparametric regression models. Four Houston, TX, sites with relatively complete ozone and meteorological data from 1983 to 1995 are analyzed. For these four sites, the model explains over 60% of the variation in log (ozone) and estimates declines in meteorologically adjusted ozone of 13−26%. These estimated declines appear to be real and are consistent with other evidence, such as declines in NOx, declines in exceedance days, and implementation of control policies. Because the estimated declines are interpreted, as in ordinary regression, as having been adjusted for year...
Selective inhibition of semiconservative DNA synthesis by nalidixic acid in permeabilized bacteria

Abstract Nalidixic acid is known to inhibit semiconservative DNA replication in Escherichia coli both in vivo and in toluene-treated cells. Using toluene treated cells, we have shown that nalidixic acid acts as a selective inhibitor, inhibiting semi-conservative synthesis but not affecting ATP dependent repair synthesis induced by ultraviolet radiation.
Simulation of Anomalous Acceptor Diffusion in Compound Semiconductors

Anomalous diffusion is often observed for acceptors diffused or implanted into compound semiconductors such as and . We present a model for this type of diffusion, and use as an example the anomalous annealing behavior of Be‐implanted semi‐insulating (SI) . In the bulk of the crystal, we can simulate the major features of the observed experimental profiles using a relatively simple model which includes fast interstitial‐substitutional diffusion but not out‐diffusion or gettering to damage. However, in the near‐surface region, out‐diffusion of the implanted impurity must be considered in order to simulate accurately impurity migration. The resulting profiles demonstrate that enhanced diffusion in a narrow band of concentrations is a critical determinant of the post‐anneal impurity profile and suggest that Be may diffuse by an interstitial‐substitutional mechanism in . Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain why Be diffusion in the bulk is slower at higher and lower Be concentrations. These include gradients in the ionization coefficient, the effect of the substitutional species concentration on the potential of the interstitial species, and electric fields formed at the p‐i or p‐n junction and in the p+ regions. We believe that the depletion of Fe in the Be‐diffused region may be due to the position of the Fermi level and the electric field in the p‐type region. These conclusions are corroborated by studies of Fe diffusion in .
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide relaxes rat gastrointestinal smooth muscle.

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a new member of the secretin/glucagon peptides family, being most homologous to vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). The present study was designed to investigate a possible effect of PACAP on the rat gastrointestinal smooth muscle in vitro. We demonstrated that 1) PACAP reduced basal smooth-muscle contractions in all portions of the gastrointestinal tract, but the effect of VIP was region-specific. The inhibitory effect of PACAP in midcolon was approximately 100 times greater than that of VIP. 2) PACAP significantly inhibited smooth-muscle contractions induced by acetylcholine or carbachol. The inhibitory effect of PACAP was not affected by hexamethonium and was additive to the inhibitory effect of atropine and pirenzepine. 3) PACAP inhibited smooth-muscle contractions induced by substance P, cholecystokinin, and galanin, even after atropine treatment. Although the exact mechanism of the inhibitory action of PACAP remains to be clarified, PACA...
Current Trends in the Epidemiology and Outcomes of Clostridium difficile Infection

Clostridium difficile is the most frequently identified cause of nosocomial diarrhea and has been associated with epidemics of diarrhea in hospitals and long-term care facilities. The continued increase in C. difficile infection (CDI) suggests that it has surpassed other pathogens in causing healthcare-associated infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently identified CDI as an "urgent threat" in its recent report on antibiotic resistance threats in the United States, highlighting the need for urgent and aggressive action to prevent this infection. The impact of antibiotics as a risk factor for new-onset CDI is well established; however, recognizing classes of antibiotics with the highest risks and reducing unnecessary antibiotic use are important strategies for prevention of CDI and subsequent recurrence. In addition, the recognition of the community as an important setting for onset of CDI presents a challenge and is an area for future research.
Single-beam optical trapping and micromanipulation of mammalian cells

A single-beam gradient force optical trap was combined with a pulsed UV laser microbeam In order to perform laser Induced cell fusion. This combination offers the possibility to selectively fuse two single cells without critical chemical or electrical treatment. The optical trap was created by directing a Nd:YAG laser, at a wavelength of 1.06 jim, into a microscope and focusing the laser beam with a high numerical aperture objective. The UV laser microbeam, produced by a nitrogenpumped dye laser (366 rim), was collinear with the trapping beam. The maximum transverse force exerted on a moving cell (NS- 1) by the optical trap was determined by measuring the velocity at which the cell fell out of the trap. For a laser power of 55 mW and a cell diameter from 9 to 20 rim, the drag force was calculated using Stokes' law to be in the range from 1.42 0.22 x 106 to 1.13 0.25 x 10-6 dynes. For the fusions, the transverse force needed to capture two NS- 1 cells and to bring them into close contact, was > 200 mW. Once inside the trap, two cells could be fused with several pulses of the UV laser microbeam, attenuated to an energy of 1 &J/pulse In the object plane. This method of laser Induced cell fusion should provide Increased selectivity and efficiency in generating viable hybrid cells.
A new class of parallel algorithms for finding connected components on machines with bit-vector operations

Abstract The problem of developing serial and parallel algorithms for finding connected components of an undirected graph G = (V, E) has received considerable attention in the literature. If ¦V¦ = n and ¦E¦ = m , the well-known serial algorithm takes O(n + m) steps. The first parallel algorithm for this problem was reported by Arjomandi and Corneil and takes T k + L[log k] + 2n steps using k processors, where T is the complexity of optimal sequential breadth first search and L is bounded by the diameter of the graph. Using a CREW (concurrent read and exclusive write) model, Chandra proposed a parallel algorithm that takes O(log2n) steps using O( n log7 logn ) processors. Following this lead, a number of parallel algorithms requiring the same time bound but different processor bounds have been reported by many authors. In this paper we use a machine model that performs (componentwise) bit vector operations (such as conjunction, comparison, etc.) in parallel. Using this model we show that the connected components of a graph G can be found in OB(n log n) steps serially, where OB refers to the number of bit vector operations. Thus, for dense graphs this serial algorithm performs better than the algorithm that is based on the depth first search. We also show that finding connected components on a CREW model takes OB(log2 n) steps using only n log n processors, and on a CRCW model, it takes OB((log n)· (log log n)) steps using only n processors. These algorithms have larger processor efficiency compared to all the known algorithms and are particularly attractive for the dense graphs when a small number of processors are available.
Retinotopic organization of ferret suprasylvian cortex.

The retinotopic organization of striate and several extrastriate areas of ferret cortex has been established. Here we describe the representation of the visual field on the Suprasylvian visual area ~Ssy!. This cortical region runs mediolaterally along the posterior bank of the suprasylvian sulcus, and is distinct from adjoining areas in anatomical architecture. The Ssy lies immediately rostral to visual area 21, medial to lateral temporal areas, and lateral to posterior parietal areas. In electrophysiological experiments we made extracellular recordings in adult ferrets. We find that single and multiunit receptive fields range in size from 2 deg 4 deg to 21 deg 52 deg. The total visual field representation in Ssy spans over 70 deg in azimuth in the contralateral hemifield ~with a small incursion into the ipsilateral hemifield!, and from 36 deg to 30 deg in elevation. There are often two representations of the horizontal meridian. Furthermore, the location of the transition from upper to lower fields varies among animals. General features of topography are confirmed in anatomical experiments in which we made tracer injections into different locations in Ssy, and determined the location of retrograde label in area 17. Both isoelevation and isoazimuth lines can span substantial rostrocaudal and mediolateral distances in cortex, sometimes forming closed contours. This topography results in cortical magnifications averaging 0.07 mm0deg in elevation and 0.06 mm0deg in azimuth; however, some contours can run in such a way that it is possible to move a large distance on cortex without moving in the visual field. Because of these irregularities, Ssy contains a coarse representation of the contralateral visual field.
Adenosine tetraphosphate analysis: polyethyleneimine (PEI) thin layer purification and firefly-extract liquid scintillation quantitation.

Abstract The role and sources of adenosine tetraphosphate (AP 4 ) have not been extensively identified because its separation and quantitation necessitates analyses on a microscale. This article illustrates a method of separation and quantitation previously not known for this purpose. The use of polyethyleneimine (PEI) thin layer chromatography with an unusual spotting media (separation time = 25–50 min), combined with noncoincident liquid scintillation counting via luciferin-luciferase light emission in a kinetically delayed manner to produce a startling increase (16–20 fold) in emitted light illustrates the uniqueness of the system. We are able to separate and detect picomole quantities of adenosine tetraphosphate. The use of this system should enable researchers to identify the importance of adenosine tetraphosphate.
A plasticity model for interface friction: application to sheet metal forming

Abstract Successful numerical simulations of forming operations require robust and accurate tool-workpiece interface friction models. In this paper we extend the rate-independent, isotropic, isothermal interface friction model proposed by Anand (Anand, L., 1993. A constitutive model for interface friction. Computational Mechanics 12, 197–213) to a rate-dependent formulation. Material parameters in the friction model are determined for lubricated interfaces between Al6111-T4 sheet and D2 tool steel. The lubricants used are MP404 and boric acid; the MP404 lubricant is currently used in industry, whereas boric acid has recently been proposed as a solid-film lubricant for sheet forming by Erdemir (Erdemir, A., 1991. Tribological properties of boric acid and boric acid-forming surfaces. Part i: crystal chemistry and mechanisms of self-lubrication of boric acid. Lubrication Engineering 47, 168–173). The interface friction model is implemented in the finite element code ABAQUS/Explicit (ABAQUS Reference Manual., 1999. Providence, RI), and the finite element program is used to simulate two sheet forming operations: axisymmetric cup-drawing and square pan-drawing. The predictions from the finite element simulation are shown to be in very good agreement with experimental results.
Methodological conservatism and social epistemology

Abstract This paper defends two principles of methodological conservatism on the grounds that they help to promote an effective social structure for a knowledge‐seeking community. Conservatism has some prima facie justification because it provides for an effective division of cognitive labor, it promotes the effective use of scientific resources, and it provides for a certain amount of stability. However, the principles I defend in this paper should not be treated as absolute or unconditional criteria of theory‐choice, since they can be overridden by other rules or maxims. Since the decision to override a principle of conservatism depends on various contextual factors, the appropriateness of conservatism can vary from context to context.
Analyzing Partially Nested Designs with Irregular Nesting: A Cautionary Case Study

Models with partially nested fixed effect structures arise when two-way structures include a factor that can be partitioned according to a nested structure. In such cases, it is likely that the nesting will have an irregular structure with unequal numbers of nested factor levels among nesting factor levels. If a priori hypotheses correspond to the nested structure, these might be tested using the two-way model and writing contrast statements. Alternatively, a more complex partially nested model might be used in an attempt to obtain the desired tests via model respecification. Comparing analyses based on the two-way model and on the partially nested model established that the partially nested model correctly partitions sums of squares for the nested structure but that Type III non-nested factor main effect hypotheses and sums of squares differed. Additionally non-nested factor least squares means differed between the two models, and the partially nested model Type III non-nested factor main effect hypothesis coefficients did not correspond to a comparison of the least squares means from either model. For the equal replications case, Type I hypotheses from the partially nested model produced the desired analysis but Type III hypotheses did not. For the unequal replications case, researchers might avoid writing contrast statements by running both models and selecting appropriate Type III tests and estimates from each analysis.
Propagation of Musa textilis Neé plants from apical meristem slices in vitro

Cultures were propagated from apical meristem slices of Musa textilis plants. They were cultured in vitro in light on either MS medium containing BAP (10 mg/l), but without edamin or MS mineral salts supplemented with 100 mg/l each of inositol, tyrosine, ascorbic acid; 150 mg/l citric acid; 2 mg/l cysteine; 0.4 mg/l thiamine HCl; 3% sucrose and 0.5–0.8% agar. Shoot initials were induced using media containing 5–10 mg/l BAP. Further promotion of shoot induction was achieved when BAP (1–3 mg/l) was supplemented with either NAA (1 mg/l) or adenine sulphate (80–160 mg/l). Shoot initials were multiplied on media containing 3–5 mg/l BAP, 0.1 mg/l IBA and 160–200 mg/l adenine sulphate. Plantlets generated roots on media without adenine sulphate but containing 1–1.5% sucrose and either NAA (0.1–1 mg/l) or IBA (2–10 mg/l). Plantlets were transferred into pots in the greenhouse 7 days after rooting.
Nanoparticle Filtration Performance of Filtering Facepiece Respirators and Canister/cartridge Filters

Respiratory protection offered by a particulate respirator is a function of the filter efficiency and face seal leakage. A previous study in our laboratory measured the filter penetration and total inward leakage (TIL) of 20–1000 nm size particles for N95 filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) using a breathing manikin. The results showed relatively higher filter penetration and TIL value under different leak sizes and flow rates at the most penetrating particle size (MPPS), ∼45 nm for electrostatic FFRs,and ∼150 nm for the same FFRs after charge removal. This indicates an advantage of mechanical filters over electrostatic filters rated for similar filter efficiencies in providing respiratory protection in nanoparticle workplaces. To better understand the influence of the MPPS, the filtration performance of commonly used one N95 and one N100 FFR models, and four P100 canister/cartridge models were measured with monodisperse NaCl aerosols, and polydisperse NaCl aerosols employed in the National Institute f...
The role of ecological assets in positive and problematic developmental trajectories

Two theoretical perspectives have been proposed to describe, explain, and intervene in adolescent development – prevention science and positive youth development (PYD). An integrative model bridging these two perspectives posits that it is important to assess the extent to which the same, similar, or complementary mechanisms may be responsible for preventing problem behavior and promoting PYD. Therefore, using data from the 4-H Study of PYD, the present study examines the role of assets in the family, school, and neighborhood in differentiating trajectories of goal-optimization and delinquency in a sample of 626 youth (50.9% female) from Grades 5 to 11. The results indicated that collective activity in the family best predicted membership for the five goal-optimization trajectories while school-based assets differentiated the four delinquency trajectories that were identified. The findings suggest that multidimensional approaches may be most effective to promote PYD and prevent problem behaviors.
A transformation useful for bounding a forecast

Abstract In many problems, the statistician may believe it unlikely that the data will ever exceed a certain value or drop below another, although there are no theoretical limits on the variable being modeled. This information could, and perhaps should, be used in statistical modeling; if not, unbelievable forecasts and forecast intervals may result. This paper discussed a generalized logistic transformation that may be used to impose these subjective bounds on the variable. Two methods for computing the limits are presented, as well as a simple alternative to one technique. An example illustrates how the transformation works in practice.
A comparison between conventional and collapse-mode capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers in 10-MHz 1-D arrays

This paper presents a comprehensive comparison between a collapse-mode and a conventional-mode capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (CMUT); both devices have a 1-μm-thick silicon plate and operate at 10 MHz when biased at 100 V. The radii of the circular plates and the gap heights are modified to meet the design specifications required for a fair comparison. Finite element analysis (FEA) shows that the collapse-mode CMUT has higher output pressure sensitivity (46.5 kPa/V) than the conventional CMUT (13.1 kPa/V), and achieves a 3-dB fractional bandwidth (FBW) of 124% compared with 128% for the conventional mode. These results were validated by experiments performed on devices fabricated in a 1-D phased array configuration using the local oxidation of silicon (LOCOS)/wafer-bonding process. The measured output pressure sensitivity and the FBW of the collapse-mode and the conventional CMUTs at 100 V were 26.4 kPa/V and 103% and 12.7 kPa/V and 111%, respectively. The maximum output pressure of the collapse-mode CMUT was 1.19 MPa at 10 MHz, which was much higher than the conventional CMUT (0.44 MPa). However, the second harmonic distortion (SHD) level of the collapse-mode CMUT is higher than the conventional CMUT at the same excitation condition. Even with higher electric field in the cavity, the collapse-mode CMUT was as stable as the conventional CMUT in a long-term test. A 30-h test with a total of 3.2 × 109 cycles of 30 V ac excitation resulted in no significant degradation in the performance of the collapse-mode devices.
Li+-Coordinated Polyglycol Radicals: Ion—Molecule Reactions with Alkenes and Ethers:

The Li+ complexes of the radicals HOCH2CH2O• (“oxy” radical), HOCH2CH2OCH2• (“methyl” radical) and HOCH2CH2OCH2CH2• (“ethyl” radical) are produced in the gas phase by fast atom bombardment of poly(ethylene glycol) 200 and the ion–molecule reactions of these novel distonic ions, [R•+Li]+, with 1-butene, dimethyl ether and methyl vinyl ether are examined in the hexapole collision cell of a sector/quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer. The products arising from these reactions depend on the reagent used and the type of radical site present in [R•+Li]+. With 1-butene, predominantly radical-site addition–eliminations take place, initiated by addition of the unpaired electron of [R•+Li]+ to the olefinic double bond; fragmentations, induced by the unpaired electron of the adduct, follow to create stable closed-shell products. Dimethyl ether attaches to the charge site of [R•+Li]+ (i.e. at the metal ion) and the adduct reacts further by elimination of (mainly) small radicals from either the original [R•+Li]+ segmen...
Behavior disorder and attention deficits in boys with Tourette syndrome.

Abstract Behavior disorders in a group of Tourette syndrome (TS) boys and in a group of boys referred with behavior difficulties only were compared. The two groups were similar with regard to teacher and parent ratings of behavior disturbance and with regard to clinical diagnoses of behavioral and attentional disorders. Over 90% of TS boys were diagnosed as having attention deficit disorder. Some boys with mild TS were found to have attentional and impulse control problems. Increased severity of TS symptoms was associated with an earlier onset of behavior disturbance. The findings suggest that attention deficits and behavior disorder are common in psychiatrically referred TS boys and that they may share common neurobiological mechanisms with the tic disorder. J. Am. Acad. Child Adolesc. Psychiatry , 1988, 27, 4:413–417.
Unique challenges accompany thick-shell CdSe/nCdS (n > 10) nanocrystal synthesis

Thick-shell CdSe/nCdS (n ≥ 10) nanocrystals were recently reported that show remarkably suppressed fluorescence intermittency or “blinking” at the single-particle level as well as slow rates of Auger decay. Unfortunately, whereas CdSe/nCdS nanocrystal synthesis is well-developed up to n ≤ 6 CdS monolayers (MLs), reproducible syntheses for n ≥ 10 MLs are less understood. Known procedures sometimes result in homogeneous CdS nucleation instead of heterogeneous, epitaxial CdS nucleation on CdSe, leading to broad and multimodal particle size distributions. Critically, obtained core/shell sizes are often below those desired. This article describes synthetic conditions specific to thick-shell growth (n ≥ 10 and n ≥ 20 MLs) on both small (sub2 nm) and large (>4.5 nm) CdSe cores. We find added secondary amine and low concentration of CdSe cores and molecular precursors give desired core/shell sizes. Amine-induced, partial etching of CdSe cores results in apparent shell-thicknesses slightly beyond those desired, es...
Full-Field Flow Measurements and Heat Transfer of a Compact Jet Impingement Array With Local Extraction of Spent Fluid

Jet impingement cooling is widely used due to the very high heat transfer coefficients that are attainable. Both single and multiple jet systems can be used, however, multiple jet systems offer higher and more uniform heat transfer. A staggered array of 8.46 mm diameter impingement jets with jet-to-jet spacing of 2.34 D was examined where the spent fluid is extracted through one of six 7.36 mm diameter extraction holes regularly located around each jet. The array had an extraction area ratio (A e /A jet ) of 2.23 locally and was tested with a jet-to-target spacing (H/D) of 1.18 jet diameters. Magnetic resonance velocimetry was used to both quantify and visualize the three dimensional flow field inside the cooling cavity at jet Reynolds numbers of 2600 and 5300. The spatially averaged velocity measurements showed a smooth transition is possible from the impingement jet to the extraction hole without the presence of large vortical structures. Mean Nusselt number measurements were made over a jet Reynolds number range of 2000―10,000. Nusselt numbers near 75 were measured at the highest Reynolds number with an estimated uncertainty of 7%. Large mass flow rate per unit heat transfer area ratios were required because of the small jet-to-jet spacing.
Dibutyl 2-(trifluoromethyl)cyclopropylboronate as a useful (trifluoromethyl)cyclopropyl donor: application to antagonists of TRPV1

Abstract Dibutyl-2-(trifluoromethyl)cyclopropylboronate 2, available in one step from commercially available reagents, serves as a useful (trifluoromethyl)cyclopropylating reagent by participating in a palladium-catalyzed Suzuki coupling. The use of boronate ester 2 in medicinal chemistry was exemplified by preparation of TRPV1 receptor antagonists.
Evolutionary convergence in nervous systems: insights from comparative phylogenetic studies.

Over the past 20 years, cladistic analyses have revolutionized our understanding of brain evolution by demonstrating that many structures, some of which had previously been assumed to be homologous, have evolved many times independently. These and other studies demonstrate that evolutionary convergence in brain anatomy and function is widespread. Although there are relatively few neuroethological studies in which brain and behavior have be studied within an evolutionary framework, three relatively well studied cases are reviewed here: electric communication among gymnotiform and mormyriform fishes, prey capture among frogs, and sound localization among owls. These three examples reveal similar patterns of brain evolution. First, it is clear that novel abilities have evolved many times independently in taxa whose common ancestors lack these abilities. Second, it is apparent that small changes in neural pathways can lead to dramatic changes in an organism's abilities. Brain evolution at this small scale is quite common. The behavioral importance of small scale changes on one hand, and the pervasiveness of convergent evolution on the other, have several implications for understanding brain evolution. First, similar abilities may be conferred by convergent rather than homologous circuits, even among closely related species. Furthermore, closely related species may use the same information in different ways, or they may use different means to obtain the same information. One reason that convergence is so common in the biological world may be that the evolutionary appearance of novel functions is associated with constraints, for example in the algorithms used for a given neural computation. Convergence in functional organization may thus reveal basic design features of neural circuits in species that possess unique evolutionary histories but use similar algorithms to solve basic computational problems.
Linear Complementarity Problem with Pseudomonotonicity on Euclidean Jordan Algebras

In this paper, we study interconnections between pseudomonotonicity, the column sufficiency property, and the globally uniquely solvable property in the setting of Euclidean Jordan algebras.
Dixie's Kingmakers: Stability and Change in Southern Presidential Primary Electorates

Recent presidential primaries have taken place against the backdrop of a secular realignment in the South, a shift that carries important consequences for nomination politics. In this article, we use statewide exit polls to trace changes between 1988 and 2008 in the Southern Democratic and Republican primary electorates. We find that the Democratic electorate has grown strikingly more liberal, more racially diverse, and less heavily Protestant over the last 20 years. Meanwhile, the Republican Party has solidified into a conservative, almost exclusively white primary electorate. We also identify a growing partisan gender gap in the region. The findings suggest that it will be increasingly difficult for a centrist white Democrat, such as Jimmy Carter or Bill Clinton, to use the South as a launching pad to the nomination. In addition, the growing polarization of the parties’ Southern primary electorates will likely continue to widen the ideological distance between the major presidential nominees. The distinctiveness of the South is a prominent feature of the American political landscape, and its contours have regularly been evident in postreform presidential nomination politics. 1 In 1976 and 1992, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton used their status as Southern governors to their advantage, turning their relative conservatism into an asset 1. In this study, the South consists of the 11 former Confederate states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
Next-Generation qPCR for the High-Throughput Measurement of Gene Expression in Multiple Leukocyte Subsets

Clinical studies of gene expression are increasingly using the whole blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and leukocyte subsets involved in the innate and adaptive immune responses. However, the small amount of RNA available in the clinical setting is a limitation for commonly used methods such as quantitative polymerase chain reactions (qPCR) and microarrays. Our aim was to design 96 gene assays to simultaneously measure gene expression in the whole blood and seven leukocyte subsets using a new-generation qPCR method—high-throughput nanofluidic reverse transcription qPCR (HT RT-qPCR). The leukocyte subset purity was 94% to 98% for seven subsets and was less for the γδ T-cell receptor subset (80%). The HT RT-qPCR replicate sample measurements were highly reproducible (r = 0.997, p < 2.2 × 10 −16 ), and the ΔΔCt values from HT RT-qPCR correlated significantly with those from qPCR. The control genes were differentially expressed across the eight leukocyte subsets in the control subjects (p = 1.3 × 10 −5 , analysis of variance). Two analytical methods, absolute and relative, gave concordant results and were significantly correlated (p = 1.9 × 10 −9 ). HT RT-qPCR permits the rapid, reproducible, and quantitative measurement of multiple transcripts using minimal sample amounts. The protocol described yielded leukocyte subsets of high purity and identified two analytic methods for use.
Yield estimates for the TESH multicomputer network

Reconfiguration and yield issues are considered for parallel computing systems based on a new interconnection network, "Tori connected mESHes (TESH)." The network is hierarchical - thus allowing exploitation of computation locality as well as systematic expansion up to a million processors, permits efficient VLSI/ULSI realization, and appears to be well suited for 3-D VLSI/ULSI implementation. Further, it enables efficient implementation of a large variety of computation intensive applications. In a very recent paper, we have reported the methodology for automatic reconfiguration of TESH. The goal of the present paper is to derive theoretical estimates of system yield as a function of the defect density and the various reconfiguration approaches. From these bounds, it is concluded that despite dramatic improvements in defect density in recent years, it is still necessary to provide redundancy and defect circumvention to achieve acceptable system-level yields. The analysis includes consideration of not only cell yield, but also switch and link yields. The latter two are particularly important in view of the emerging interest in interconnected nanotech devices for which the link yields currently are quite low.
Design of a joint-coupled orthosis for FES-aided gait

A hybrid functional electrical stimulation (FES)/orthosis system is being developed which combines two channels of (surface-electrode-based) electrical stimulation with a computer-controlled orthosis for the purpose of restoring gait to spinal cord injured (SCI) individuals (albeit with a stability aid, such as a walker). The orthosis is an energetically passive, controllable device which 1) unidirectionally couples hip to knee flexion; 2) aids hip and knee flexion with a spring assist; and 3) incorporates sensors and modulated friction brakes, which are used in conjunction with electrical stimulation for the feedback control of joint (and therefore limb) trajectories. This paper describes the hybrid FES approach and the design of the joint coupled orthosis. Preliminary experiments are presented which test the joint coupling concept and assess the extent of quadriceps fatigue imposed by the bias spring and joint coupling.
Localization of retinitis pigmentosa 2 to cilia is regulated by Importin β2

Ciliopathies represent a newly emerging group of human diseases that share a common etiology resulting from dysfunction of the cilium or centrosome. The gene encoding the retinitis pigmentosa 2 protein (RP2) is mutated in X-linked retinitis pigmentosa. RP2 localizes to the ciliary base and this requires the dual acylation of the N-terminus, but the precise mechanism by which RP2 is trafficked to the cilia is unknown. Here we have characterized an interaction between RP2 and Importin β2 (transportin-1), a member of the Importin-β family that regulates nuclear–cytoplasmic shuttling. We demonstrate that Importin β2 is necessary for localization of RP2 to the primary cilium because ablation of Importin β2 by shRNA blocks entry both of endogenous and exogenous RP2 to the cilium. Furthermore, we identify two distinct binding sites of RP2, which interact independently with Importin β2. One binding site is a nuclear localization signal (NLS)-like sequence that is located at the N-terminus of RP2 and the other is an M9-like sequence within the tubulin folding cofactor C (TBCC) domain. Mutation of the NLS-like consensus sequence did not abolish localization of RP2 to cilia, suggesting that the sequence is not essential for RP2 ciliary targeting. Interestingly, we found that several missense mutations that cause human disease fall within the M9-like sequence of RP2 and these mutations block entry of RP2 into the cilium, as well as its interaction with Importin β2. Together, this work further highlights a role of Importin β2 in regulation of the entry of RP2 and other proteins into the ciliary compartment.
Goals, Methods, and Progress in Neuroeconomics

Neuroeconomics shares the main goals of microeconomics: to understand what causes choices, and the welfare properties of choice. The novel goal is linking mathematical constructs and observable behavior to mechanistic details of neural circuitry. Several complementary methods are used. An initial insight from neuroscience is that distinct systems guide choice: Pavlovian and instrumental conditioning (learning) of state-value and response-value associations, overlearned habits, and model- (or goal-) directed value that requires deliberation. These systems can differ economically from rational choice—for example, habitual choices have low utility and price elasticities, whereas model-directed values are often constructed preferences. Neuroeconomics also provides evidence of situations in which utility maximization either works well (in simple binary choice) or benefits from the introduction of behavioral constructs. Neuroeconomics is well equipped to guide the theory of how choices depend on mental states, ...
The use of 2D ultrasound elastography for measuring tendon motion and strain.

Abstract The goal of the current study was to investigate the fidelity of a 2D ultrasound elastography method for the measurement of tendon motion and strain. Ultrasound phantoms and ex vivo porcine flexor tendons were cyclically stretched to 4% strain while cine ultrasound radiofrequency (RF) data and video data were simultaneously collected. 2D ultrasound elastography was used to estimate tissue motion and strain from RF data, and surface tissue motion and strain were separately estimated using digital image correlation (DIC). There were strong correlations (R2>0.97) between DIC and RF measurements of phantom displacement and strain, and good agreement in estimates of peak phantom strain (DIC: 3.5±0.2%; RF: 3.7±0.1%). For tendon, elastographic estimates of displacement profiles also correlated well with DIC measurements (R2>0.92), and exhibited similar estimated peak tendon strain (DIC: 2.6±1.4%; RF: 2.2±1.3%). Elastographic tracking with B-Mode images tended to under-predict peak strain for both the phantom and tendon. This study demonstrates the capacity to use quantitative elastographic techniques to measure tendon displacement and strain within an ultrasound image window. The approach may be extendible to in vivo use on humans, which would allow for the non-invasive analysis of tendon deformation in both normal and pathological states.
Consistent Expectations and Misspecification in Stochastic Non-linear Economies ∗

This paper generalizes existence results on first-order Stochastic Consistent Expectations Equilibria (SCEE) obtained by (Hommes, Sorger, and Wagener 2002). We present a stochastic non-linear self-referential model in which expectations are based on linear perceptions. In an SCEE the sample mean and correlation coefficients of the true and perceived processes coincide. We provide conditions on the non-linear maps governing the stochastic process that are sufficient to establish existence of SCEE. Our approach defines a map that takes linear perceptions to actual outcomes in such a way that fixed points of this map are SCEE; by establishing existence of fixed points, we are able to demonstrate existence of SCEE. Stability of SCEE under real-time learning is analyzed numerically.
The implement of searching engine for educational resources using text clustering

The rich educational resources form network is a great role of promoting for the development of education, but educational retrieval is ineffective at present. Search engine is an available tool but the precision of retrieval is still the crucial problem. Text clustering is an automatic technology to summarize and classified text information. Using the text clustering technology in the field of educational search engine will improve the accuracy of retrieval. Presently clustering in search engine has some preliminary study at home and abroad. There are some clustering engine trial systems can be used on line, but those systems are usually only support for English and not special for professional fields. This paper discusses the concept as well as the lifecycle of the text clustering, then use the search engine tool-- Lucene index the Chinese educational resources, supplied to the Carrot2 tools to build a text-based search results clustering engine, compares the clustering engine with the search engine and analysis the experiments data. As the result achieve Cluster retrieval of educational resources.
Multiple sexual pigments, assortative social pairing, and genetic paternity in the yellow warbler (Setophaga petechia)

In socially monogamous species, extra-pair paternity may increase the reproductive success of highly ornamented males, mediating the evolution of sexual ornaments. However, ornaments may also attract social mates, and a tradeoff between extra-pair paternity (EPP) and within-pair paternity (WPP) may complicate mating strategies. Further, in many socially monogamous species, females are also ornamented, and the relationship between female ornamentation and patterns of EPP has been neglected. We investigated the patterns of genetic paternity with respect to carotenoid- and melanin-based pigmentation in yellow warblers (Setophaga petechia) of both sexes. We asked whether males face tradeoffs between EPP and WPP, how paternity patterns relate to carotenoid- versus melanin-based pigmentation, and whether less EPP occurs in broods when males and females are assortatively paired. Males faced a tradeoff between EPP and WPP. Moreover, non-additive relationships existed between paternity patterns and the two pigment types in both sexes. Males with high melanin coverage but dull carotenoid pigmentation achieved EPP but lost WPP, whereas males with high levels of both pigment types had high WPP but gained little EPP. A parallel pattern occurred in females. Warblers paired assortatively by pigmentation and EPP was less common in broods when the sexes were assortatively paired by carotenoid pigmentation. Results suggest that the most colorful birds obtain high quality social mates and advance reproductive success through WPP, show that correlations can arise between female ornamentation and patterns of EPP, and also uniquely suggest that social pairing patterns may influence extra-pair mating strategies.
Composites: trees for data parallel programming

Data parallel programming languages offer ease of programming and debugging and scalability of parallel programs to increasing numbers of processors. Unfortunately, the usefulness of these languages for non-scientific programmers and loosely coupled parallel machines is currently limited. We present the composite tree model which seeks to provide greater flexibility via parallel data types, support for more general, hierarchical parallelism, parallel control flow, and efficient execution on loosely coupled, coarse grained parallel machines such as workstation networks. The composite tree model is a new model of parallel programming based on merging data parallelism with object oriented programming languages, and can be implemented as a small set of extensions to any pure, static typed, object oriented programming language. >
Direct and large-eddy simulations of internal tide generation at a near-critical slope

A numerical study is performed to investigate nonlinear processes during internal wave generation by the oscillation of a background barotropic tide over a sloping bottom. The focus is on the near-critical case where the slope angle is equal to the natural internal wave propagation angle and, consequently, there is a resonant wave response that leads to an intense boundary flow. The resonant wave undergoes both convective and shear instabilities that lead to turbulence with a broad range of scales over the entire slope. A thermal bore is found during upslope flow. Spectra of the baroclinic velocity, both inside the boundary layer and in the external region with free wave propagation, exhibit discrete peaks at the fundamental tidal frequency, higher harmonics of the fundamental, subharmonics and inter-harmonics in addition to a significant continuous part. The internal wave flux and its distribution between the fundamental and harmonics is obtained. Turbulence statistics in the boundary layer including turbulent kinetic energy and dissipation rate are quantified. The slope length is varied with the smaller lengths examined by direct numerical simulation (DNS) and the larger with large-eddy simulation (LES). The peak value of the nearbottom velocity increases with the length of the critical region of the topography. The scaling law that is observed to link the near-bottom peak velocity to slope length is explained by an analytical boundary-layer solution that incorporates an empirically obtained turbulent viscosity. The slope length is also found to have a strong impact on quantities such as the wave energy flux, wave energy spectra, turbulent kinetic energy, turbulent production and turbulent dissipation.
Yarn Pull-Out as a Mechanism for Dissipating Ballistic Impact Energy in Kevlar® KM-2 Fabric: Part I: Quasi-Static Characterization of Yarn Pull-Out

Yarn pull-out can be an important energy absorption mechanism during the ballistic impact of woven Kevlar® fabric. This study reports the effects of fabric length, number of yarns pulled, arrangement of yarns, and transverse tension on the force-displacement curves for yam pull-out tests on Kevlar® KM-2 fabric under laboratory conditions. A semi-empirical model is presented for predicting the yam pull-out force and energy as a function of pull-out distance, including both yarn uncrimping and subsequent yam translation. This model is found to replicate the experimental data with a high degree of accuracy, and should prove useful for understanding ballistic experiments and improving computational modeling of fabrics.
T cells of mice treated with mPEG-myasthenogenic peptide conjugate are involved in protection against EAMG by stimulating lower pathogenic antibody responses.

Experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) can be induced in C57BL/6 (B6) mice by immunization with Torpedo califomka acetylcholine receptor (fAChR). We had previously shown that pretreatment with a monomethoxypolyethylene glycol (mPEG) conjugate of myasthenogenic fAChR α-chain peptide α125-148 (mPEG-peptide) suppressed EAMG. In order to understand the mechanism involving T cells in the induction of this suppression, we have studied, in the present work, the in vitro responses of T cells from mPEG-peptide treated B6 mice after an initial fAChR injection to determine the early effect of mPEG-peptide treatment on these responses. Treatment with mPEG-peptide reduced the T cell responses to fAChR and several fAChR α-chain peptides. To further investigate the T cell helper function in vivo, we transferred T cells from B6 mice that received either mPEG-peptide or control PBS followed by two fAChR injections to non-immune B6 mice. T cell transfer from mPEG-peptide pretreated mice down regulated, in recipie...
Pregnancy diagnosis in the black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) by salivary hormone analysis

Saliva samples collected from 12 black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis) were analyzed for 20 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone-like and total estrogen immunoreactivity. Five nonpregnant, two conception, and nine pregnancy intervals were monitored. HPLC co-chromatography of immunoreactive free steroid components in saliva indicated that one of three immunoreactive progestin components eluted with 20 alpha-hydroxypreg-4-en-3-one, whereas the single major estrogen peak eluted with estradiol. Direct radioimmunoassay measurements of ether extracts for these two reproductive hormones in saliva provided accurate and consistent profiles in which pregnancy was detected 13 months prior to parturition, and parturition was predicted by approximately 1 month. Measurement of 20 alpha-hydroxypreg-4-en-3-one was more useful in pregnancy diagnosis, and estradiol measurement was useful as an indicator of impending parturition. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.