cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Capacity limits and performance results for frequency-hop transmission over partial-band noise channels

Capacity limits and throughput results are evaluated for slow frequency-hop transmission over channels in which the bandwidth of the partial-band noise may vary but the total power in the noise is constant. The system employs orthogonal modulation, noncoherent demodulation, and error-control coding with iterative decoding. We find that the capacity limits for the system and the performance results for turbo product codes and low-density parity-check codes show that the throughput can be a nonmonotonic function of the bandwidth of the partial-band noise. We discuss how such nonmonotonicity affects the design of adaptive-rate coding systems.
The relationship of the dexamethasone suppression test (1 mg and 2 mg) to basal plasma cortisol levels in endogenous depression

Abstract The 1 mg and 2 mg dexamethasone suppression tests (DST) were evaluated in two groups of endogenously depressed patients ( n = 39 and n = 30, respectively) who also had a 1300–1600 hr basal cortisol assessment. Non-suppressors (on both DSTs) had significantly higher basal plasma cortisol levels and thus were significantly associated with relative cortisol hypersecretion. However, there was only a partial overlap between DST response and basal plasma cortisol, with a large variation of cortisol levels among non-suppressors. The 2 mg DST appears to be more specific for cortisol hypersecretion than the 1 mg DST. If cortisol hypersecretion is to be identified, neither the 1 mg or 2 mg DST is an adequate assessment nor a substitute for a basal cortisol assessment.
Chemical alteration of thin alumina films on aluminum during hydrogen-atom exposures

Abstract Hot-rolled and partially oxidized Al foil surfaces were examined before and after H-atom exposures using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and ion scattering spectroscopy (ISS) to monitor the changes which occur at the sample surfaces. The near-surface region of the native oxide of the hot-rolled Al foil contains primarily C and O. Cl and Ca contamination also are present at the outermost atomic layer according to ISS. H-atom exposures reduce the amount of carbonates and hydrocarbons but causes an enrichment of sulfur in the outermost layer of the foil. The O-to-Al ratio is reduced, and the AlOx species initially present is converted to Al2O3. After sputtering the Al foil to remove the Cl, C, and Ca contaminants, the Al was exposed to oxygen at 10−7 Torr for 10 min. The near-surface region of this re-oxidized surface contains both Al metal and Al2O3. Exposing this partially oxidized surface to H-atoms produces a chemically-induced driving force which causes subsurface O to migrate toward the surface of the foil. This results in an increase of the Al2O3 concentration at the sample surface. These results suggest that the thickness of Al oxide layers may be controlled using H-atom exposures. Furthermore, the amounts of carbon contamination can be decreased and possibly eliminated without reducing the alumina.
High dose weekly erlotinib achieves therapeutic concentrations in CSF and is effective in leptomeningeal metastases from epidermal growth factor receptor mutant lung cancer.

Leptomeningeal metastases (LM) occur in 5–10% of patients with solid tumors and are associated with a dismal prognosis. We describe LM from lung adenocarcinoma harboring a mutation in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene that confers sensitivity to the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) erlotinib and gefitinib. The CSF concentration of EGFR-TKIs achieved by standard daily dosing may be insufficient for therapeutic effect. However, intermittent (pulsatile) high dose administration (1000–1500 mg/week) achieves a higher CSF concentration than standard dosing, and successfully controlled LM in this patient.
Salivary Gland Gene Expression Atlas Identifies a New Regulator of Branching Morphogenesis

During organ development, local changes in gene expression govern morphogenesis and cell fate. We have generated a microanatomical atlas of epithelial gene expression of embryonic salivary glands. The mouse submandibular salivary gland first appears as a single mass of epithelial cells surrounded by mesenchyme, and it undergoes rapid branching morphogenesis to form a complex secretory organ with acini connected to an extensive ductal system. Using laser capture microdissection, we collected samples from 14 distinct epithelial locations at embryonic days 12.5, 13.5, 14, and 15, and characterized their gene expression by microarray analysis. These microarray results were evaluated by qPCR of biological replicates and by comparisons of the gene expression dataset with published expression data. Using this gene expression atlas to search for novel regulators of branching morphogenesis, we found a substantial reduction in mRNA levels of GSK3β at the base of forming clefts. This unexpected finding was confirmed by immunostaining, and inhibition of GSK3β activity enhanced salivary gland branching. This first microanatomical expression atlas of a developing gland characterizes changes in local gene expression during salivary gland development and differentiation, which should facilitate the identification of key genes involved in tissue morphogenesis.
AMBER torsional parameters for the peptide backbone

A new set of torsional parameters for peptides in the AMBER force field is described which reproduces ab initio calculations on the conformational preferences of simple peptides better than the original set. We designate the new parameter set as AMBER and show how it compares with the performance of AMBER in reproducing the x-ray structure of the small protein crambin.
Modeling of ternary site occupation in L12 ordered intermetallics

Abstract The site preference of ternary additions in an A3B intermetallic compound with the L12 structure is modeled using the tetrahedron approximation of the Cluster Variation Method. At T = 0 K, there are three fundamental site preference behaviors for the ternary additions, depending on the relative magnitude of the effective pair interactions. It is found that the site preference of the ternary element is generally not related to the direction of the L12 solubility lobe. Our model also indicates that, under some conditions, the site preference can change with alloy composition and with temperature.
SHEAR: sample heterogeneity estimation and assembly by reference.

Personal genome assembly is a critical process when studying tumor genomes and other highly divergent sequences. The accuracy of downstream analyses, such as RNA-seq and ChIP-seq, can be greatly enhanced by using personal genomic sequences rather than standard references. Unfortunately, reads sequenced from these types of samples often have a heterogeneous mix of various subpopulations with different variants, making assembly extremely difficult using existing assembly tools. To address these challenges, we developed SHEAR (Sample Heterogeneity Estimation and Assembly by Reference; http://vk.cs.umn.edu/SHEAR ), a tool that predicts SVs, accounts for heterogeneous variants by estimating their representative percentages, and generates personal genomic sequences to be used for downstream analysis. By making use of structural variant detection algorithms, SHEAR offers improved performance in the form of a stronger ability to handle difficult structural variant types and better computational efficiency. We compare against the lead competing approach using a variety of simulated scenarios as well as real tumor cell line data with known heterogeneous variants. SHEAR is shown to successfully estimate heterogeneity percentages in both cases, and demonstrates an improved efficiency and better ability to handle tandem duplications. SHEAR allows for accurate and efficient SV detection and personal genomic sequence generation. It is also able to account for heterogeneous sequencing samples, such as from tumor tissue, by estimating the subpopulation percentage for each heterogeneous variant.
Indomethacin and sodium carbonate effects on conditioned fever and NK cell activity

The augmentation of natural killer (NK) cell activity and elevation of body temperature (fever) can both be conditioned using camphor odor as the conditioned stimulus (CS) and poly I:C as the unconditioned stimulus (US). While both responses can be conditioned in parallel fashion as shown previously, our results indicate the conditioned learning of these responses may not follow along a common path. We found that injection of a 1% solution of sodium carbonate was able to consistently block the CS/US learning of the NK cell response but did not block conditioning of the fever response. In contrary fashion, mice treated with indomethacin (which inhibits prostaglandin-induced fever) dissolved in the sodium carbonate solution did not learn in consistent fashion the fever response. However, indomethacin-treated animals were able to recall the NK cell response. These results support the view that although the same mediator, IFN-beta, is responsible for the conditioned learning of the NK cell and fever responses both the learning and recall of the responses are initiated along separate pathways.
Equilibrium and dynamics of adsorption of surfactants at fluid-fluid interfaces

Abstract Surfactant adsorption at fluid-fluid interfaces is modeled with respect to both equilibrium and dynamic behavior. A thermodynamic treatment is developed wherein the surface concentration of ionic surfactants is distinguished from their surface excess concentration by the contribution from the electrical double layer. Only the surface concentrations are assigned to the dividing surface and the electrical double layer is considered to be a part of the aqueous phase. A general adsorption isotherm is derived by including non-idealities in the bulk as well as at the dividing surface. The corresponding equation of state is derived using the Gibbs adsorption isotherm. Several well-known adsorption isotherms and equations of state arise as limiting cases of the general equations of this model. The model is shown to correlate with several published surface and interfacial tension measurements on ionic surfactant systems with or without indifferent electrolytes. Ideal behavior is observed at the interfaces of all liquid-liquid systems investigated. Surface non-idealities are observed only in gas-liquid systems. It is concluded that the non-idealities do not arise from the electrical interactions but rather from the attractive interactions between the hydrophobic tails of the adsorbed surfactant. This approach is superior to the approaches based on a Gibbsian dividing surface since it is readily applicable to the treatment of electrostatic and electrokinetic phenomena as demonstrated by a remarkable correlation achieved between the calculated values of interfacial potentials and observed electrophoretic mobilities. The model is extended using phenomenological considerations to the case of systems not at equilibrium. A continuum treatment of adsorption dynamics is formulated wherein surfactant transport in the bulk phases is described using transport equations with constant coefficients. Activation energy barriers to solute exchange between the bulk and the dividing surface are represented by kinetics of a reversible reaction. The kinetic expression corresponding to the general adsorption isotherm is derived from phenomenological considerations.
Correlation functions quantify super-resolution images and estimate apparent clustering due to over-counting.

We present an analytical method using correlation functions to quantify clustering in super-resolution fluorescence localization images and electron microscopy images of static surfaces in two dimensions. We use this method to quantify how over-counting of labeled molecules contributes to apparent self-clustering and to calculate the effective lateral resolution of an image. This treatment applies to distributions of proteins and lipids in cell membranes, where there is significant interest in using electron microscopy and super-resolution fluorescence localization techniques to probe membrane heterogeneity. When images are quantified using pair auto-correlation functions, the magnitude of apparent clustering arising from over-counting varies inversely with the surface density of labeled molecules and does not depend on the number of times an average molecule is counted. In contrast, we demonstrate that over-counting does not give rise to apparent co-clustering in double label experiments when pair cross-correlation functions are measured. We apply our analytical method to quantify the distribution of the IgE receptor (FceRI) on the plasma membranes of chemically fixed RBL-2H3 mast cells from images acquired using stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM/dSTORM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We find that apparent clustering of FceRI-bound IgE is dominated by over-counting labels on individual complexes when IgE is directly conjugated to organic fluorophores. We verify this observation by measuring pair cross-correlation functions between two distinguishably labeled pools of IgE-FceRI on the cell surface using both imaging methods. After correcting for over-counting, we observe weak but significant self-clustering of IgE-FceRI in fluorescence localization measurements, and no residual self-clustering as detected with SEM. We also apply this method to quantify IgE-FceRI redistribution after deliberate clustering by crosslinking with two distinct trivalent ligands of defined architectures, and we evaluate contributions from both over-counting of labels and redistribution of proteins.
THE ANTICONVULSANT ACTIVITY OF SOME TETRAZOLE DERIVATIVES.

Abstract The neurotoxicity, antielectroshock, anti-Metrazol, and antistrychnine activities of some tetrazole derivatives have been determined in mice. The compounds were found to be relatively nontoxic. In general, they were effective against seizures induced by either Metrazol or electroshock. However, with the exception of one compound, the tetrazoles were ineffective in preventing death from strychnine.
Sphingomyelin Synthases Regulate Protein Trafficking and Secretion

Sphingomyelin synthases (SMS1 and 2) represent a class of enzymes that transfer a phosphocholine moiety from phosphatidylcholine onto ceramide thus producing sphingomyelin and diacylglycerol (DAG). SMS1 localizes at the Golgi while SMS2 localizes both at the Golgi and the plasma membrane. Previous studies from our laboratory showed that modulation of SMS1 and, to a lesser extent, of SMS2 affected the formation of DAG at the Golgi apparatus. As a consequence, down-regulation of SMS1 and SMS2 reduced the localization of the DAG-binding protein, protein kinase D (PKD), to the Golgi. Since PKD recruitment to the Golgi has been implicated in cellular secretion through the trans golgi network (TGN), the effect of down-regulation of SMSs on TGN-to-plasma membrane trafficking was studied. Down regulation of either SMS1 or SMS2 significantly retarded trafficking of the reporter protein vesicular stomatitis virus G protein tagged with GFP (VSVG-GFP) from the TGN to the cell surface. Inhibition of SMSs also induced tubular protrusions from the trans Golgi network reminiscent of inhibited TGN membrane fission. Since a recent study demonstrated the requirement of PKD activity for insulin secretion in beta cells, we tested the function of SMS in this model. Inhibition of SMS significantly reduced insulin secretion in rat INS-1 cells. Taken together these results provide the first direct evidence that both enzymes (SMS1 and 2) are capable of regulating TGN-mediated protein trafficking and secretion, functions that are compatible with PKD being a down-stream target for SMSs in the Golgi.
Approximation algorithms for the shortest common superstring problem

Abstract The object of the shortest common superstring problem (SCS) is to find the shortest possible string that contains every string in a given set as substrings. As the problem is NP-complete, approximation algorithms are of interest. The value of an aproximate solution to SCS is normally taken to be its length, and we seek algorithms that make the length as small as possible. A different measure is given by the sum of the overlaps between consecutive strings in a candidate solution. When considering this measure, the object is to find solutions that make it as large as possible. These two measures offer different ways of viewing the problem. While the two viewpoints are equivalent with respect to optimal solutions, they differ with respect to approximate solutions. We describe several approximation algorithms that produce solutions that are always within a factor of two of optimum with respect to the overlap measure. We also describe an efficient implementation of one of these, using McCreight's compact suffix tree construction algorithm. The worstcase running time is O ( m log n ) for small alphabets, where m is the sum of the lengths of all the strings in the set and n is the number of strings. For large alphabets, the algorithm can be implemented in O ( m log m ) time by using Sleator and Tarjan's lexicographic splay tree data structure.
Clustering and isolation in the consensus problem for partitions

We examine the problem of aggregating several partitions of a finite set into a single consensus partition We note that the dual concepts of clustering and isolation are especially significant in this connection. The hypothesis that a consensus partition should respect unanimity with respect to either concept leads us to stress a consensus interval rather than a single partition. The extremes of this interval are characterized axiomatically. If a sufficient totality of traits has been measured, and if measurement errors are independent, then a “true” classifying partition can be expected to lie in the consensus interval. The structure of the partitions in the interval lends itself to partial solutions of the consensus problem Conditional entropy may be used to quantify the uncertainty inherent in the interval as a whole
Opacity effects on the polarization of line emissions in astrophysical plasmas

Polarization-based line spectroscopy is a valuable tool in determining the characteristics of electron distribution functions in anisotropic plasmas. For instance, directional electrons can unevenly populate the magnetic sublevels of atomic energy levels resulting in partial polarization of the emitted spectral lines. The large dimensions of astrophysical sources raise the possibility of non-negligible self-absorption effects on spectral line properties. Alternatively, the high densities characteristic of laser-produced laboratory plasmas can also result in substantial optical depth values. We present a modeling study of He-like Fe line emissions in which we investigate the effects of radiation transport on the polarization of selected spectral lines under corona conditions.
Cytogenetic evidence for a chromosome 22 tumor suppressor gene in ependymoma

Although ependymomas comprise 5-10% of pediatric brain tumors, consistent cytogenetic aberrations have not been identified in these neoplasms. We report karyotypes for two ependymomas. A predominantly well-differentiated ependymoma contained several numerical chromosome aberrations, including monosomy 22. In contrast, an anaplastic ependymoma had a more complex karyotype that included loss of one chromosome 22 homologue and a balanced translocation at q13.3 in the remaining 22 homologue. These findings suggest the location of an ependymoma tumor suppressor gene on the long arm of chromosome 22.
Simulations for Microbubble Drag Reduction (MBDR) at High Reynolds Numbers

Simulations of turbulent channel flows at Re = 135 400, seeded with microbubbles, have been used to investigate the dynamics of microbubble drag reduction. The bubbles are found to exert an effective streamwise body force on the flow that retards the near-wall flow and results in a reduction in drag. Besides this density effect of the bubbles there is a suspension viscosity effect, and both depend on the local void fraction and bubble size. In addition, collisions or contacts between bubbles can lead to an enhanced dispersion at larger void fractions. These features are investigated for a range of conditions to guide the development of RANS models.
Cell treatment and lysis in 96-well filter-bottom plates for screening Bcr-Abl activity and inhibition in whole-cell extracts.

Although conventional high-throughput screens performed in vitro with purified protein kinases are powerful tools to discover new kinase inhibitors, they are far from ideal for determining efficacy in vivo. As a complementary approach, cell-based, target-driven secondary screens may help predict in vivo compound potency and specificity as well as evaluate bioavailability and toxicity. Here the authors report a simple protocol for treating K562 Bcr-Abl-expressing cells with small-molecule kinase inhibitors in 96-well filter-bottom plates followed by in-plate cell lysis. The lysates were assayed via a solid-phase kinase assay, allowing determination of apparent IC50 for known Bcr-Abl inhibitors as well as facilitating the screening of a small kinase inhibitor library. This approach may have further applications in generating lysates for analyzing kinase activity and inhibition in other nonadherent suspension cell lines.
Semantic memory activation in amnestic mild cognitive impairment

Cognitively intact older individuals at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease frequently show increased functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) brain activation presumably associated with compensatory recruitment, whereas mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients tend not to show increased activation presumably due to reduced neural reserve. Previous studies, however, have typically used episodic memory activation tasks, placing MCI participants at a performance disadvantage relative to healthy elders. In this event-related fMRI study, we employed a low effort, high accuracy semantic memory task to determine if increased activation of memory circuits is preserved in amnestic MCI when task performance is controlled. Fifty-seven participants, aged 65-85 years, comprised three groups (n = 19 each): amnestic MCI patients; cognitively intact older participants at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease based on having at least one ApoE epsilon4 allele and a positive family history of Alzheimer's disease (At Risk); and cognitively intact participants without Alzheimer's disease risk factors (Control). fMRI was conducted on a 3T MR scanner while participants performed a famous name discrimination task. Participants also underwent neuropsychological testing outside the scanner; whole brain and hippocampal atrophy were assessed from anatomical MRI scans. The three groups did not differ on demographic variables or on fame discrimination performance (>87% correct for all groups). As expected, the amnestic MCI participants demonstrated reduced episodic memory performance. Spatial extent of activation (Fame--Unfamiliar subtraction) differentiated the three groups (Control = 0 ml, At Risk = 9.7 ml, MCI = 34.7 ml). The MCI and At Risk groups showed significantly greater per cent signal change than Control participants in 8 of 14 functionally defined regions, including the medial temporal lobe, temporoparietal junction, and posterior cingulate/precuneus. MCI participants also showed greater activation than Controls in two frontal regions. At Risk, but not MCI, participants showed increased activity in the left hippocampal complex; MCI participants, however, evidenced increased activity in this region when hippocampal atrophy was controlled. When performance is equated, MCI patients demonstrate functional compensation in brain regions subserving semantic memory systems that generally equals or exceeds that observed in cognitively intact individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease. This hyperactivation profile in MCI is even observed in the left hippocampal complex, but only when the extent of hippocampal atrophy is taken into consideration.
LIGHTNING IN THE ECOLOGY OF THE SOUTHERN PINE BEETLE, DENDROCTONUS FRONTALIS (COLEOPTERA: SCOLYTIDAE)

Loblolly pine trees struck by lightning offer a favorable attack and brood environment for the southern pine and Ips beetles. In central Louisiana lightning strikes reduced oleoresin exudation pressure, oleoresin flow, and relative water content of inner-bark tissue and resulted in a decrease in sucrose and an increase in reducing-sugar content of inner bark. Interspecific competition was much greater in struck trees than nonstruck trees. Among struck trees, those with highest carbohydrate levels produced the most numerous broods of the southern pine beetle.
ADSORPTION AND OXIDATION OF BENZIDINE AND ANILINE BY MONTMORILLONITE AND HECTORITE

Quantitative measurements are made of the adsorption of benzidine and aniline from aque- ous hydrochloride solutions by Na-, Li-, and Ca-montmorillonite and of the displaced inorganic ca- tions. From these data, the ionic states of the adsorbed organic species are determined. Under condi- tions of controlled pH, the adsorption of benzidine increases as the pH increases, and involves mainly divalent species at pH 3.2. With aniline, monovalent and neutral species are adsorbed, and hydrogen ions also appear to participate in the reactions. Color developments of benzidine and aniline complexes of montmorillonite and hectorite are considered qualitatively in relation to the adsorption data, to various experimental conditions including the nature of the inorganic exchangeable cations, the pH, and the presence or absence of oxygen in the system, and to relevant previous work. It is hypothesized that the blue color of the benzidine com- plex is due to semiquinone formation by oxidation on montmoriUonite by the clay itself, and on hectorite by dissolved oxygen or H202, and that the yellow color under acid conditions arises from reversible formation of quinoidal cations from semiquinones. The color developments of the aniline complex are due probably to oxidation of aniline by atmospheric oxygen.
Aberrant crypt foci as predictors of colorectal neoplasia on repeat colonoscopy

Objective To estimate the risk for colorectal neoplasia detected on repeat colonoscopy in relation to aberrant crypt foci (ACF) frequency reported during the previous baseline examination.
Effects of food availability on serum insulin and lipid concentrations in free-ranging baboons.

The relationship between food availability and metabolic physiology was studied in groups of free-ranging baboons (Papio spp.) living in the Amboseli National Park and the Masai Mara National Reserve of Kenya. Three groups subsisted entirely on natural forage, while two other groups lived near tourist facilities and often consumed food wastes from these lodges. The refuse provided a very accessible food source with relatively high caloric density. Consumption of the refuse was associated with reduced locomotion. Sexually mature individuals from all five groups were sedated surreptitiously in the early morning and blood samples were collected. Compared to animals foraging exclusively in the wild, animals that supplemented their diet with the refuse items had two- to threefold elevations in serum insulin concentrations, as well as increased total cholesterol (C), HDL-C, and VLDL+LDL-C levels. No sex differences in physiological measures were observed except in body mass. Elevated serum insulin, and cholesterol and lipoprotein concentrations influence the development of cardiovascular disease and have been shown to be subject to dietary manipulation and exercise under controlled conditions. The present results suggest potentially deleterious effects of a highly accessible, calorically dense food source, and associated reduction of physical activity for baboons living in an otherwise natural environment.
Using situational physiology in a didactic lecture setting.

This project used the approach of "human situations" to teach about the cardiovascular system within an undergraduate physiology course (PGY 412). About two-thirds of the students had previously ta...
Integrating bioinformatic data sources over the SFSU ER design tools XML databus

The SFSU ER Design Tools were developed to support database design and data integration over multiple implementation data models. These tools allow users to enter and view Entity Relationship (ER) schemas and to translate ER schemas into a variety of equivalent implementation schemas, including Relational (ANSI SQL2), Object Oriented (ODMG 3.0), Spreadsheet (Universal Relation with associated functional dependencies) and W3C XML DTD. In addition, for each implementation data model, the Tools generate DDL statements to create a database, as well as simple JDBC/ODBC based code to dump stored data into an XML file and to load data from an XML file into a database. Data can be transferred from one data store to another over an HTTP based XML Databus. In this paper we describe the design and implementation of our XML Databus using Web Services, as well as a new strategy to support integration of bioinformatics data sets. We first manually identify semantically equivalent attributes in both schemas, then automatically join the corresponding data sets into a single integrated collection of XML formatted data. Our software is operational, and preliminary performance measurements over DTD and data downloaded from the NIH-NCBI Web site show that our strategy is feasible for moderately sized data sets.
Using Film to Critically Engage Student Development Theory

Bridget Turner Kelly and Kamaria B. Porter describe how film can be a powerful pedagogical tool to help students recognize, understand, and critique abstract, theoretical concepts in higher education graduate classes at Loyola University Chicago.
Multidimensional Scaling: A Marketing Research Tool to Evaluate Faculty Performance in the Classroom

University and college educators have long been advised to examine faculty performance, although traditional methods of evaluation have been justifiably criticized. The authors propose the adoption of a marketing research tool, multidimensional scaling, to provide more comprehensive reporting and tangible dimensions for potential improvement for a given instructor. A case example of how the tool can be employed is presented; implications for marketing educators are discussed.
Bayesian Analysis for Sociologists: An Introduction

This article provides an applied introduction to Bayesian statistics for sociologists. Unlike frequentist statistics, which attaches repeated-sampling frequencies to test statistics, Bayesian statistics directly describes uncertainty about unknown statistical parameters with a probability distribution. With this foundation, much of Bayesian statistics follows from basic rules of probability theory. Three areas of Bayesian statistics are especially relevant for sociologists. First, hierarchical regression models allow several levels of uncertainty into an analysis. Second, Bayes factors provide a useful approach to the problems of model selection, model averaging, and posterior inference about model indexes. Third, recent breakthroughs in estimation methods offer valuable new tools for analysis of Bayesian models that were previously intractable.
Artificial bandwidth extension of narrow-band speech signals via high-band energy estimation

In this paper, we describe a novel method of tackling the problem of artificially extending the bandwidth of a narrow-band speech signal. For a given narrow-band signal, we first estimate the energy in the high-band. The high-band energy is then used to select a suitable high-band spectral envelope shape that is consistent with the estimated high-band energy while simultaneously ensuring that the resulting wide-band spectral envelope is continuous at the boundary between narrow-band and high-band. The scalar high-band energy parameter thus effectively controls the artificial information added to the high-band of the bandwidth extended output speech signal. Artifacts in the output speech are minimized by adapting the high-band energy parameter appropriately. Formal subjective listening tests show that the bandwidth extended speech output generated by the described method outscores the input narrow-band speech by 0.25 MOS.
Diagnosis and surgical management of a subchondral bone cyst within the intermediate tubercle of the humerus in a horse

Summary The case of a horse with a subchondral bone cyst in the lateral slope of the intermediate humeral tubercle is presented. Diagnosis was complicated by the unusual location and subsequent challenge in imaging the cyst. Endoscopic debridement resulted in a good outcome.
Qualitative decision theory

We describe a framework for specifying conditional desires "desire α by e degrees if β" and evaluating preference queries "would you prefer σ1 over σ2 given ϕ" under uncertainty. We refine the semantics presented in (Tan & Pearl 1994) to allow conditional desires to be overridden by more specific desires in the database. Within this framework, we also enable consideration of surprising worlds having extreme desirability values and the determination of degrees of preference.
Traveling waves in response to a diffusing quorum sensing signal in spatially-extended bacterial colonies

Abstract In the behavior known as quorum sensing (QS), bacteria release diffusible signal molecules known as autoinducers, which by accumulating in the environment induce population-wide changes in gene expression. Although QS has been extensively studied in well-mixed systems, the ability of diffusing QS signals to synchronize gene expression in spatially extended colonies is not well understood. Here we investigate the one-dimensional spatial propagation of QS-circuit activation in a simple, analytically tractable reaction-diffusion model for the LuxR–LuxI circuit, which regulates bioluminescence of the marine bacterium Aliivibrio fischeri. The quorum activation loop is modeled by a Hill function with a cooperativity exponent (m=2.2). The model is parameterized from laboratory data and captures the major empirical properties of the LuxR–LuxI system and its QS regulation of A. fischeri bioluminescence. Our simulations of the model show propagating waves of activation or deactivation of the QS circuit in a spatially extended colony. We further prove analytically that the model equations possess a traveling wave solution. This mathematical proof yields the rate of autoinducer degradation that is compatible with a traveling wave of gene expression as well as the critical degradation rate at which the nature of the wave switches from activation to deactivation. Our results can be used to predict the direction and activating or deactivating nature of a wave of gene expression in experimentally controlled bacterial populations subject to a diffusing autoinducer signal.
Scale-Controlled Objective Analysis

Abstract The major topic of this paper is the resolvable spatial scales that can be analyzed by statistical interpolation of an undersampled dataset. The inquiry was motivated by the need to design the most appropriate procedures for spatial analysis of the upper-air sounding data from the GARP Atlantic Tropical Experiment. A reliable representation of horizontal scales in the analyzed wind fields was a matter of utmost concern, since the derived fields of vorticity, divergence and vertical motion were also of vital interest. To achieve our goal, it was found that the traditional promise of statistical interpolation had to be reexamined. The main conclusions of this theoretical inquiry are (i) resolvable scales are determined by the geometrical distribution of observing stations; (ii) precise knowledge of the second-moment statistics improves the analysis by de-aliasing the amplitudes of resolvable scales, but has no effect on the definition of resolvable scales; (iii) residual effects of unresolvable sig...
Raman Spectroscopy of Epitaxial Si/Si1-xGe,xHeterostructures

Raman scattering studies were carried out on epi Si/Si 1-x Ge x ( x = 0.1 to 0.3) heterostructures consisting of a thin Si cap layer (100 - 400 A˚), a grade-down Si 1-x Ge x layer, a constant Si 1-x Ge x , buffer layer and a grade-up graded Si 1-x Ge x layer on (100) oriented Si substrates. Different Ge composition, Si 1-x Ge x layer thicknesses and thermal treatment were used to achieve different relaxation in the Si 1-x Ge x layers. It has been revealed that, to a very good approximation, the absolute strains in the cap Si and constant Si 1-x Ge x layers follow a simple sum-rule that is imposed by the lattice mismatch between unstrained Si and completely relaxed Si 1-x Ge x . This sum rule can be used to determine the Ge composition and stresses in both cap Si and constant Si 1-x Ge x layers. Excellent agreement was found between the theoretical curve obtained with LO phonon strain coefficient b=−930cm −1 and the experimental total strain for all samples, regardless of the degree of the relaxation of the grade-up Si 1-x Ge x layer.
Decision tree-based machine learning algorithm for in-node vehicle classification

In this paper, we propose an in-node microprocessor-based vehicle classification approach to analyze and determine the types of vehicles passing over a 3-axis magnetometer sensor. Our approach for vehicle classification utilizes J48 classification algorithm implemented in Weka (a machine learning software suite). J48 is a Quinlan's C4.5 algorithm, an extension of decision tree machine learning based on ID3 algorithm. The decision tree model is generated from a set of features extracted from vehicles passing over the 3-axis sensor. The features are attributes provided with correct classifications to the J48 training algorithm to generate a decision tree model with varying degrees of classification rates based on crossvalidation. Ideally, using fewer attributes to generate the model allows for the highest computational efficiency due to fewer features needed to be calculated while minimalizing the tree with fewer branches. The generated tree model can then be easily implemented using nested if-loops in any language on a multitude of microprocessors. In addition, setting an adaptive baseline to negate the effects of the background magnetic field allows reuse of the same tree model in multiple environments. The result of our experiment shows that the vehicle classification system is effective and efficient with the accuracy at nearly 100%.
Chapter 15: Environmental Valuation: The Travel Cost Method

This is chapter 15 of Environmental Economics: An Integrated Approach and it describes the pros and cons of the travel cost method of valuing environmental goods.
Steric and Electronic Influences of Buchwald-Type Alkyl-JohnPhos Ligands

The electron-donating and steric properties of Buchwald-type ligands ([1,1′-biphenyl-2-yl]dialkylphosphine; R-JohnPhos, where R = Me, Et, iPr, Cy, tBu) were determined. The π-acidity and σ-donating properties of the R-JohnPhos ligands were quantified using a Cotton–Kraihanzel analysis of the Cr0(CO)5(R-JohnPhos) complexes. Somewhat surprisingly, the σ-donating abilities of the R-JohnPhos ligands follow the trend tBu-JohnPhos < Et-JohnPhos < iPr-JohnPhos < Cy-JohnPhos ≪ Me-JohnPhos. This ordering is proposed to arise from competition between the intrinsic electron-donating ability of the R groups (Me < Et < iPr ≈ Cy < tBu) and steric interactions (front and back strain) that decrease the electron-donating ability of the phosphine. X-ray crystallographic data of 22 metal complexes (general forms: trans-Cr0(CO)4(PR3)2, Pd0(PR3)2(η2-dba), and trans-PdII(Cl)2(PR3)2) were also analyzed to help explain the electronic trends measured for the R-JohnPhos ligands. The R-JohnPhos ligands are exceptionally sensitive t...
Understanding Dropout

Dropout is a relatively new algorithm for training neural networks which relies on stochastically "dropping out" neurons during training in order to avoid the co-adaptation of feature detectors. We introduce a general formalism for studying dropout on either units or connections, with arbitrary probability values, and use it to analyze the averaging and regularizing properties of dropout in both linear and non-linear networks. For deep neural networks, the averaging properties of dropout are characterized by three recursive equations, including the approximation of expectations by normalized weighted geometric means. We provide estimates and bounds for these approximations and corroborate the results with simulations. Among other results, we also show how dropout performs stochastic gradient descent on a regularized error function.
Carbon Fiber-Reinforced SiC Composites Produced by Reaction-Bonding

Carbon fiber-reinforced SiC composites were prepared by reaction-bonding. The formation of SiC (3C type) took place by a reaction between carbon from phenol resin and silicon powder above 1320°C and completed at 1420°C. This reaction did not damage the carbon fiber, and fiber pull-out was observed on the fracture surface. The bulk density and the flexural strength of these composites were 1.7-1.8g/cm3 and -130MPa, respectively. Impregnation with molten silicon at 1600°C increased the bulk density but decreased the flexural strength, due to the reaction of carbon fiber with silicon.
Disorganization and the New Mexico Prison Riot of 1980

"Breakdown" theorists postulate that collective action results from social disorganization and increased levels of discontent. Data on the 1980 New Mexico prison riot provide support for certain aspects of this model. From 1970 to 1975, the State Penitentiary provided inmates with employment opportunities and recreational programs. These integrating activities were sharply curtailed after 1975. As a consequence, inmates experienced strong feelings of deprivation, and inter-inmate violence increased. The 1980 riot reflected the disintegration of the previous five years. No one element was in control of the riot, and the level of brutality surpassed that of any other U.S. prison riot. Few researchers now defend a "breakdown" or "disorganization" model of collective action, even though it dominated the field just two decades ago (Kornhauser, 1959; Smelser, 1962; Davies, 1962). According to the model, collective action arises from a breakdown in the structures of solidarity-church, family, work, and voluntary organizations-that normally channel people into conventional behavior. The fact that the "breakdown" model is called what it is-rather than the "crisis" or "shock" model, say-reflects an underlying presumption that in normal times social structures exist which keep people from mobilizing for conflict. Two complementary facets of the breakdown model emphasize different sets of these controlling structures. A Durkheimian (and Parsonian) facet emphasizes control over the individual's emotions, thoughts, and appetites. In normal times, the individual is integrated into the social whole; he feels a sense of commonality with other sectors of the society; his appetites are restrained to a manageable level. According to this view, then, disorganization produces collective action for two reasons. First, disorganization frees individuals from the regulatory mechanisms that inhere in social organization. Urbanization and migration, for example, uproot individuals from their social, political, and recreational activities, producing a mass of isolated, anomic individuals. These marginal individuals are then readily "available" for mobilization (Kornhauser, 1959; Smelser, 1962). Second, disorganization increases "discontent" within a population. The isolated, anomic individual develops new, unpredictable, and potentially unfulfillable desires; he develops irrational beliefs about how they can be fulfilled; he seeks to escape and overcome his isolation and discontent through collective action
CHARACTERISTICS OF SALT ROCK AND SALT-DISSOLUTION ENGINEERING GEOLOGY AND SUBGRADE CONSTRUCTION IN CHAERHAN SALT LAKE ALONG QINGHAI-TIBET RAILWAY

In order to solve the problem of salt—dissolution in the section of Chaerhan salt lake along Qinghai —Tibet railway,a number of studies are carried out by the special research team organized by the Ministry of Railways.This paper introduces systematically the natural and geological conditions,physical and chemical properties of salt rock,salt—dissolution type and its distribution characteristics along railways,and princi- ples of salt—dissolution developing.It is successfully to adopts the salt—rock as the subgrade fills for non— salt—dissolution section and adopts the base replace—filling and subgrade free—drainage for treating salt— dissolution rich section on the bases of the above research achievements.The result shows that the adopted engineering measures are effective by the sonic testing and analysis of the observation data of water level and settlement.
Correlation of positivity ratio and hardiness among patients with ectopic gestation

Objective To explore the relationship between positivity ratio and hardiness among patients with ectopic gestation.Method Totally,239 patients with ectopic gestation were investigated by Chinese Version Positive and Negative Affect Scale and Hardiness Scale.Results The average positivity ratio was(0.79 ± 0.37),the average score of hardiness was(1.90 ± 0.23).There was positive correlation between them(P 0.01).Conclusion The patients with ectopic gestationare at poor condition in positivity ratio and hardiness.Positivity ratio could predict patients' hardiness,then nurses should provide corresponding health education to enhance patients' hardiness.
A Review on the Research Progress on the Hydrocarbon Migration

The hydrocarbon migration is an important procedure in the forming process of the reservoir,passing through in the entire process of reservoir operation.This article introduced the history of the hydrocarbon migration,the trend of its development and the current situation of our country,especially the study of the secondary migration.It briefly clarified the research progress on the hydrocarbon migration.
Numerical Simulation of the Sudden Expansion Two-phase Turbulence in Fracture Pipe

Numerical calculations are performed by the standard k-e turbulence model to simulate the sudden expansion two-phase turbulence in fracture pipe under different flowrates.The fluid pathline,velocity distribution and sand volume fraction are obtained.The numerical simulation results show that the separate flow vortexes take form at the sudden expansion in fracture pipe,the sand volume fraction increase at the wall of pipe,the mixture of fluid and sand impact the wall of pipe at the certain angle.With the flowrate increasing,the impact position moves to downer.It is shown that the numerical simulation results based on the standard k-e model agree well with the field operation results.
Molar intrusion using miniscrew palatal anchorage.

A 17-year-old female presented with the chief complaint of inability to bite properly. Clinical examination revealed a Class II, division 1 malocclusion with an anterior open bite and mild maxillary and mandibular tooth-sizearch-length discrepancies (Fig. 1, Table 1). The patient’s initial contact upon closure was between the maxillary and mandibular first molars, leading to a complex open bite involving the premolars and all the anterior teeth. In addition, there was a maxillary transverse deficiency resulting in bilateral posterior crossbites, as well as a severely rotated mandibular left second premolar. Profile analysis indicated an excessive lower anterior facial height and mandibular plane angle. Two options were discussed with the patient: comprehensive surgical-orthodontic treatment, including orthognathic surgery to impact the posterior maxilla and expand the posterior segments through a three-piece Le Fort I procedure; and orthodontic treatment involving slow maxillary expansion and correction of the anterior open bite by intrusion of the maxillary posterior segments, using palatal miniscrew anchor-