cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the sampling and reconstruction of time-warped bandlimited signals

The sampling and reconstruction problem for time-warped bandlimited signals is examined, and its relationship to the more general sampling problem for nonbandlimited signals is discussed. In particular, time-warped bandlimited signals in L/sup 2/ are considered, covering approximation of L/sup 2/ signals, representational ambiguity, and approximation with nonaffine warpings. >
Microsomal electron transport. The role of reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-cytochrome c reductase in liver microsomal lipid peroxidation

NADPH-cytochrome c reductase in rat liver microsomes was solubilized by bromelain digestion and purified to homogeneity. An antibody preparation obtained by immunization with this enzyme was found to inhibit the NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity of both the purified enzyme and intact microsomes by more than 90%. This antibody also inhibited the NADPH-dependent peroxidation of microsomal lipid which occurs in the presence of ferric ion chelated by ADP (ADP-Fe). The bromelain-solubilized reductase will also promote NADPH-dependent peroxidation of extracted microsomal lipid, but only if ferric ion chelated by ethylenediaminetetraaacetate (EDTA-Fe) is included in the reaction mixture. The optimal conditions for this reaction are those required for the optimal reduction of EDTA-Fe by the purified reductase. Other ferric ion chelators, regardless of whether or not they promoted the reduction of ferric ion, would not replace EDTA in promoting lipid peroxidation. A purified preparation of the microsomal enzyme, NADH-cytochrome b5 reductase, which reduces EDTA-Fe, will also promote the peroxidation of extracted microsomal lipid. Intact microsomes, in the presence of ADP-Fe, are specific for NADPH instead of NADH in promoting the peroxidation of microsomal lipids; however, in the presence of both EDTA-Fe and ADP-Fe, both NADH and NADPH promote lipid peroxidation. These results indicate that the NADPH-dependent peroxidation of microsomal lipid involves the activity of NADPH-cytochrome c reductase, and suggest that an additional microsomal electron transport component is involved. The function of this additional component in the lipid peroxidation reaction can apparently be replaced by EDTA-Fe.
A two-tone approach for prolonged readout of multiplexed photorefractive holograms

Photorefractive materials offer important advantages in many optical holography applications, but the recorded images typically remain sensitive to light and therefore erase on readout. Thermal fixing, electrical fixing, two photon absorption during grating formation in the presence of a sensitizing wavelength, and system-level image refreshing procedures have been used to sustain the recorded image during replay. We propose and demonstrate a novel two-tone holography approach that overcomes the unfavorable speed and poor diffraction efficiency of the thermal and electrical fixing, the complexity of refresh techniques, and the high intensities required for two-photon absorption methods. In our two-tone approach, holograms are recorded with short wavelength light, typically in the blue-green spectrum for which the photorefractive material is sensitive, and replayed with longer wavelength light, typically in the red-infrared spectrum, for which the material can be essentially inert. The replay light diffracts off of the recorded gratings, but due to significantly reduced photorefractive sensitivity, it introduces minimal erasure. >
Programmed compliance for error-correction in robotic assembly

The use of active compliance to realize an error-corrective assembly is addressed. A robot operating under active compliance-control may be viewed as continuously computing motions from forces. A compliance matrix specific to the shapes of the parts to be mated is constructed. During execution of the assembly operation, this compliance matrix efficiently maps measured forces into appropriate corrective motions. Essentially, the plan is to program, in advance, the 9 (in 2-space) or 36 (in 3-space) elements of a compliance matrix so that the robot will respond correctly to any error which may occur during the assembly operation. Three desirable criteria are proposed for the motion of an error-corrective manipulator. The three criteria become mathematical requirements on the compliance matrix to be designed. It is shown how the compliance matrix which best fulfils these criteria can be constructed. >
Leukotriene (LT) receptor antagonists. Heterocycle-linked tetrazoles and carboxylic acids. LY203647.

LY171883, 1-[2-hydroxy-3-propyl-4-[4-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)butoxy]phenyl] ethanone, is an orally active antagonist of LTD4- and LTE4-induced responses in a variety of test systems. We prepared a new series of LT antagonists based on a proposed model of LY171883 binding to the LTE4 receptor in which then-propyl and tetrazole moieties of LY171883 occupy those parts of the receptor to which the C1-C5 chain and the cysteinyl carboxyl of LTE4 bind, respectively. The new compounds have an acidic function corresponding to the glycine carboxyl of LTD4 linked through a heterocyclic group which is proposed to bind to the LTD4 receptor where the cysteinyl glycine amide bond of LTD4 binds. LY203647, 1-[2-hydroxy-3-propyl-4-[4-[2-[4-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl) butyl]-2H-tetrazol-5-yl]butoxy]phenyl] ethanone, showed good LTD4 antagonist activity with a suitable pharmacologic and toxicologic profile and has been chosen for clinical evaluation.
Release of antimicrobial and antiviral drugs from methacrylate copolymer system: effect of copolymer molecular weight and drug loading on drug release.

Abstract Objective To study the release of antiviral drug acyclovir (ACY) and antibacterial drug chlorhexidine diacetate (CDA) from synthesized copolymers of ethyl methacrylate and hexyl methacrylate of different molecular weights. The effect of the copolymer molecular weight and the effect of drug loading into the copolymer on the release of the drugs have been studied. Method Copolymers (I–IV) of ethyl methacrylate (EMA) and hexyl methacrylate (HMA) were synthesized by free radical solution polymerization with a yield of 76–82%. The copolymer composition was determined by proton NMR spectroscopy. The molecular weight of the copolymers was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Copolymers I and II were of higher molecular weight while copolymers III and IV were of lower molecular weight. The copolymers were impregnated with 2.5 wt.% of ACY and CDA individually and the release rate of these drugs in water at 37 °C was examined. Drug loading was studied with 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 wt.% of ACY and CDA incorporated into a separate polymer. Results Measurements of the in vitro rate of drug release showed a sustained release of drug over extended period of time. ACY release rate increases with decrease in copolymer molecular weight from copolymers I to IV ( p p p = 0.011) while CDA release rate had a leveling effect with increase in drug load. Significance Varying the copolymer molecular weight as well as the drug concentration alters the drug release rates and thus it is possible to control the drug release rates to a desired value.
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from Leuconostoc mesenteroides is a reliable internal standard for radiation-inactivation studies of membranes in the frozen state.

The target size of four soluble enzymes (beta-galactosidase, pyruvate kinase, alcohol dehydrogenase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) in the presence or absence of subcellular membrane fractions has been determined by the radiation-inactivation method using samples in the frozen state. For each of the four enzymes, full activity was recovered after freezing and thawing in the absence of radiation. We found minimal (less than 20%) binding of the enzymes to either submitochondrial vesicles or sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles. Under the conditions tested, beta-galactosidase, pyruvate kinase, and alcohol dehydrogenase exhibited target sizes which varied according to the experimental conditions, i.e., the buffer selected and also the presence or absence of membrane preparations. For these tetrameric enzymes, the target sizes were generally comparable to either a monomer or a dimer. By contrast, the target size of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from Leuconostoc mesenteroides was found to be essentially invariant when frozen in a variety of buffers and in the presence or absence of either cryoprotectant (sucrose or glycerol) or different membrane preparations. The target size from 19 separate determinations gave an average value of 104 +/- 16 kDa, which is comparable to the molecular weight of the enzyme (104 kDa). We conclude that glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from L. mesenteroides is a reliable internal standard for radiation-inactivation studies of membrane preparations in the frozen state.
Influence of cerebral hemodynamics on stroke risk: One‐year follow‐up of 30 medically treated patients

The importance of hemodynamic factors in the pathogenesis and treatment of ischemic cerebrovascular disease is not clear. We have investigated the relationship between cerebral hemodynamics and the subsequent risk of stroke in 30 medically treated patients with symptomatic occlusion or greater than 75% intracranial stenosis of the carotid arterial system. Positron emission tomography (PET) was used to evaluate the regional hemodynamic status of the cerebral circulation. Clinical follow-up to 1 year post-PET was available for all patients. The incidence at 1 year of all strokes was 1/9 for patients with normal hemodynamics and 1/21 for patients with abnormal hemodynamics. The 1-year incidence of ipsilateral ischemic stroke was 1/9 for hemodynamically normal patients and 0/21 in the abnormal group. The 21 patients in the abnormal group fulfilled entry criteria for the Extracranial-Intracranial Bypass Trial. The 0/21 incidence of ipsilateral ischemic stroke at 1 year was compared with the 1-year rate of 0.109 for the 714 medically treated patients from the Bypass Trial. We were able to reject with better than 90% certainty (p = 0.089) the hypothesis that our sample of patients came from a population with an ipsilateral ischemic stroke rate of 0.109 or greater. Thus, in this small sample, we found no evidence that PET evidence of abnormal cerebral hemodynamics identifies a subgroup of patients at higher risk for early stroke if treated medically with antithrombotic drugs.
A demand radiofrequency cardiac pacemaker.

An implantable capsule containing circuitry to transmit the endocardial ECG and convert received radio-frequency pulses to constant current stimulus pulses is described. Inasmuch as the control unit of the pacemaker is located outside the body wall, different modes of pacing (self-synchronous,R-wave coupled, and asynchronous) are possible. Alterations in the capsule load impedance, coupled to the transmitting antenna, is the method of transmission. A signal to noise ratio of 10:1, with a 1 mv source ECG signal can be obtained through a 2 cm spacing between the implant and external coil. The endocardial ECG may be recorded and employed to reveal alterations in electrode geometry. The anode electrode is attached directly to the implanted capsule, providing a unit having a single flexible electrode. The assembly allows recording the endocardial ECG without a wire connection to the hospital utility system. Due to the constant current feature, placement of the external coils is less critical than radiofrequency coupled tissue stimulators previously described.
Factors Affecting Environmentally Responsible Behaviors in the Use of Energy‐efficient Lighting in the Home

During the last decade, lighting has become energy efficient across most sectors in the United States. However, the residential sector shows the least efficiency in lighting because of the use of incandescent lighting. To understand the reason for the slow growth in the adoption of energy-efficient residential lighting, this study identified factors influencing the purchase of energy-efficient lighting products, the willingness to pay more for energy-efficient lighting, and support for policies that ban the use of inefficient lighting in the home. Through systematic random sampling, a mail survey was conducted with homeowners in the Midwest region of the United States. The final sample consisted of 307 respondents. Factor analyses and three multiple regression analyses were conducted. The results revealed that residents' adoption of energy-efficient lighting was predicted by their attitude toward the environment and toward energy-efficient lighting, habitual energy-saving behavior, and their perception of the quality of energy-efficient lighting products.
Clinical Use of Methylstilbestrol12

Since the estrogenic properties of diethylstilbestrol were first described by Dodds and associates (1) in 1938, extensive clinical work has been done to determine the estrogenic potencies and possible toxic effects of this drug (2–6). Its use by a number of investigators in various clinics has demonstrated pronounced estrogenic potency and mild toxicity, the latter consisting of nausea and occasional vomiting in a small percentage of cases. Various laboratory procedures used to determine possible specific organic damage from the drug have been negative in the hands of most investigators (2, 7). Aside from the diethyl group attached to the stilbestrol base, a number of other substituent groups have been used to formulate other compounds which might have estrogenic potency. Geschickter and Byrnes (8) assayed a large number of these different stilbestrol compounds on animals, finding varying estrogenic potency; and clinically assayed the monomethyl ether of stilbestrol on 49 cases of varying types necessitat...
Variations of the lymphocytotoxicity test. An evaluation of sensitivity and specificity.

Multiple variations of the basic lymphocytotoxicity test have been reported to increase test sensitivity. Although these modifications are used routinely in crossmatch tests, as required by federal regulation, there has been no methodical assessment of the relative sensitivities and specificities of these techniques, with the exception of the well-studied antiglobulin method. We have performed such a comparison and found that these modifications do not, uniformly, increase test sensitivity. We also observed that the effect of a technique modification on test sensitivity as measured by overall lymphocytotoxic antibody titer does not reflect, necessarily, the effect on HLA-specific antibody. It is widely believed that the antiglobulin method is the most sensitive of the lymphocytotoxicity techniques. We observed that while the antiglobulin method increased overall test sensitivity dramatically, we achieved a comparable level of sensitivity by either substituting B cells for T cells or doubling both the serum and the complement incubation times. However, no other technique modification detected as many HLA antibody specificities as did the antiglobulin method. The data presented here provide useful guidelines for selecting techniques for HLA typing, antibody screening, and cross-matching.
Criteria for excision of suspected fibroadenomas of the breast

Abstract Background Fibroadenomas are benign breast tumors; however, more aggressive lesions may mimic or arise within fibroadenomas. We sought to define criteria identifying patients who should undergo surgical excision. Methods Patients with a preoperative diagnosis of fibroadenoma, who underwent surgical excision between 2002 and 2011, were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with final pathologic diagnosis of fibroadenoma were compared with those with non-fibroadenoma pathology. Results Of the 723 patients, 681 (94%) had fibroadenomas on final pathology. The incidence of non-fibroadenoma pathology was 6% (42 patients) and included benign phylloides (23), malignant phylloides (2), atypical ductal hyperplasia (1), intraductal papilloma (5), and other benign pathology (11). No cases of adenocarcinoma were identified. Non-fibroadenoma pathology was associated with age >35, immobile or poorly circumscribed mass, size >2.5 cm, and biopsy not definitive for fibroadenoma. Conclusion Patients with age >35 years, immobile or poorly circumscribed mass, size >2.5 cm, or biopsy not definitive for fibroadenoma should undergo surgical excision.
Differential male mating success in the white spotted sawyer Monochamus scutellatus (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae).

Field and laboratory observations of the white spotted sawyer Monochamus scutellatus (Say) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) showed that males differ widely in ability to maintain pair-bonds. There was a significant quadratic relationship between the number of ovipositions during a pair-bond and pair-bond duration, suggesting that there may be a disproportionate payoff in reproductive success to males able to maintain long pair-bonds. Females were receptive for a single day and then oviposited alone for a number of days; therefore, males should be expected to outnumber receptive females at a breeding site on any given day even if the sex ratio among adults is 1:1.
The Case Against Objective Values

While objective values need not be intrinsically motivating, need not actually motivate us, they would determine what we ought to pursue and protect. They would provide reasons for actions. Objective values would come in degrees, and more objective value would provide stronger reasons. It follows that, if objective value exists, we ought to maximize it in the world. But virtually no one acts with that goal in mind. Furthermore, objective value would exist independently of our subjective valuings. But we have no way of measuring amounts of such values independently of the ways we value objects. While a subjectivist can account for mistaken values, a fully impersonal viewpoint, from which objective values would appear, seems instead to cause all values to disappear. Nor does the moral point of view, which requires more impartiality than agents usually exhibit, reveal fully objective values. The paper closes with an examination of the most widely endorsed candidates for states having positive and negative objective values: pleasures and pains. It concludes again that, once we adjust for worthiness of the object and desert of the subject for such states, there is no way to measure their supposed objective value.
On the influence of coupled homogeneous redox reactions in d.c. and a.c. polarography

Abstract With the aid of the Yamaoka mechanism and a.c. polarographic observables, rate constants for the homogeneous reduction of Co(III)pentammine complexes by Eu(II) are measured. Where comparison is possible, rate parameters obtained by this electrochemical procedure are found to be in good agreement with previous measurements by stopped-flow and pulse radiolysis procedures, with one exception. The order of reactivity for the halopentammineCo(III) complexes is found to follow the sequence RF 2+ >RCl 2+ >RBr 2+ >RI 2+ , where R=Co(III)(NH 3 ) 5 3+ . This and a pH dependence noted for the RF 2+ case are suggestive of a predominantly inner sphere reaction pathway.
Nutritional efficacy and hepatic changes during intragastric, intravenous, and prehepatic feeding in rats

The nutritional efficacy and hepatic changes in rats given a total parenteral nutrition (TPN) solution consisting of 4.25% amino acids and 25% dextrose by intragastric, intravenous, or prehepatic routes were studied over a 4-day period. Rats fed Purina Chow or given intragastric TPN maintained body weight and showed no appreciable fatty change of liver. In contrast, weight loss, hepatomegaly, and a 37% increase in liver lipid content were observed in rats given intravenous TPN and a 60% increase after prehepatic TPN. Approximately half the rats given intravenous or prehepatic TPN developed fatty changes in the liver. Serum albumin concentration and hepatic protein content were not improved after prehepatic TPN. Serum SGOT and SGPT were elevated in rats given prehepatic TPN only. Prehepatic TPN may result in hepatic injury and offers no apparent benefit over conventional intravenous TPN in rats. (Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition7: 443-446, 1983)
Manifestation of “staircase vortices” in angular dependence of the irreversible boundary of YBaCuO crystals

Abstract We report an observation of a double peak in the lossy component of complex susceptibility χ″ in single crystals of YBaCuO. This double peak appears over a finite range of applied dc magnetic fields and intermediated field orientations. We attribute this phenomenon to two components of J c , which arise from a “staircase vortex” pattern, where portions of the vortex lie between CuO layers.
Multi-device Optimization for Scalable DC HEMT Model with Self-Heating Effect

This paper presents a new approach for extracting a scalable DC HEMT model. Scaling rules with unknown coefficients are assumed for each size dependent parameter, and the model parameter of different devices is thus correlated. A scalable model can then be extracted by multi-device optimization. The optimization is carried out on five devices with different gate width. In this way, accurate scaling rules for each parameter and very good I-V fittings for each device have been achieved simultaneously.
TAMIS-assisted laparoscopic low anterior resection with total mesorectal excision in a cadaveric series

Background To demonstrate the feasibility of an innovative technique for the surgical management of rectal cancer, we performed transanal minimally invasive surgery assisted low anterior resection with total mesorectal excision (TAMIS-assisted LAR with TME) in a cadaver model. Transanal LAR via natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery has been reported in cadaveric series using rigid transanal platforms. This procedure has not been described using a combination of a single incision laparoscopy and TAMIS transanal endoscopic platform. We describe the first cadaveric series of TAMIS-assisted LAR with TME.
Planetary geomorphology: Some historical/analytical perspectives

Abstract Three broad themes from the history of planetary geomorphology provide lessons in regard to the logic (valid reasoning processes) for the doing of that science. The long controversy over the origin of lunar craters, which was dominated for three centuries by the volcanic hypothesis, provides examples of reasoning on the basis of authority and a priori presumptions. Percival Lowell's controversy with geologists over the nature of linear markings on the surface of Mars illustrates the role of tenacity in regard to the beliefs of some individual scientists. Finally, modern controversies over the role of water in shaping the surface of Mars illustrate how the a priori method, i.e., belief produced according to reason, can seductively cloud the scientific openness to the importance of brute facts that deviate from a prevailing paradigm.
E-books, the latest word: proceedings from the Acquisitions Institute at Timberline Lodge

Abstract A panel which included a librarian, publisher and e-book providers presented issues confronting the growth of e-books in the academic library marketplace. The e-book market projections are a small part of the higher education book market. Frontlist titles are demanded by libraries with suppliers eager to supply such titles. However, publishers are feeling their way through various rights and contract issues as well as business models as they determine which frontlist titles to provide in electronic form. The instability of business partners has contributed to publisher delays in releasing titles as e-books. No one, (librarians, suppliers, publishers) is throwing in the towel on e-books but the position this format takes in the publishing industry and therefore in library collections in the near future is unsettled.
Determination of internuclear distances from solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance: Dipolar transforms and regularization methods

Many NMR experiments have been designed to measure homonuclear or heteronuclear distances, and often generate time-domain dipolar signals that need to be analysed to extract the relevant dipolar coupling constants. These constants yield internuclear distances directly, and therefore an accurate and easily understandable extraction of these couplings from potentially noisy data is a major concern. Several dipolar signals will be considered in this work, including those obtained from the REDOR, MELODRAMA, and SEDOR experiments, and a new series form for the C7 and DCP signals. A review and discussion of an existing transform-based method for dipolar signal analysis is presented here, along with two new generalized methods for the extraction of coupling constants. One of the new methods is a fast procedure based on asymptotic signal forms, while the other is a regularization method specifically formulated to account for experimental noise, and shows significant performance gains over other methods when appli...
Defining Student Engagement

Few terms in the lexicon of higher education today are invoked more frequently, and in more varied ways, than engagement. None (except perhaps “funding”) is employed more often to describe what ins...
Quantum proton transfer coupled to a quantum anharmonic mode

Many model studies of proton tunneling in condensed phase employ a reaction coordinate that is coupled to a bath of harmonic oscillator modes. The nature of the coupled modes and the effect of the coupling parameters on reaction rate is an active area of investigation. Recent experimental results from the Fleming group showed that the spectral density for solvation can be temperature dependent [A. Passino, Y. Nagasawa, and G. R. Fleming, J. Chem. Phys. 107, 6094 (1997)]. Translated from the Langevin picture, this result implies that bath modes are anharmonic, or that a different set of harmonic modes are needed at each temperature. In addition, calculations of proton transfer rates have shown that quantum dynamics can be significantly affected by the variation of spectral densities in the low frequency regime [D. Antoniou and S. D. Schwartz, J. Chem. Phys. 109, 5487 (1998)]. We report a study of proton transfer in which the reaction coordinate is coupled to a Morse oscillator with nonlinear coupling. Comp...
Reflections on Jazz and Teaching: Benny and Gene, Woody and We

Based on an analogy with a recently revived film of The Benny Goodman Story, draws some marketing‐related parallels between jazz musicianship and teaching. Specifically, as in the case of artists, professors may often pursue a product‐oriented strategy stubbornly dedicated to honouring their own convictions at the expense of a customer‐oriented quest for greater potential popularity. Illustrates through an interview with Woody Herman that, as with jazz musicians, so with teachers: one hopes that integrity will win true listeners.
Ground-based differential absorption lidar for water-vapor and temperature profiling: development and specifications of a high-performance laser transmitter

An all-solid-state laser transmitter for a water-vapor and temperature differential absorption lidar (DIAL) system in the near infrared is introduced. The laser system is based on a master–slave configuration. As the slave laser a Q-switched unidirectional alexandrite ring laser is used, which is injection seeded by the master laser, a cw Ti:sapphire ring laser. It is demonstrated that this laser system has, what is to my knowledge, the highest frequency stability (15 MHz rms), narrowest bandwidth ( 99.99%) of all the laser transmitters developed to date in the near infrared. These specifications fulfill the requirements for water-vapor measurements with an error caused by laser properties of <5% and temperature measurements with an error caused by laser properties of <1 K in the whole troposphere. The specifications are maintained during long-term operation in the field. The single-mode operation of this laser system makes the narrow-band detection of the DIAL backscatter signal possible. Thus the system has the potential to be used for accurate temperature measurements and for simultaneous DIAL and Doppler wind measurements.
Experiences with GPS-controlled aerotriangulation using digital cameras

acquisition system integrated with GPS (MapCam1 7) are described. MapCam permits the fast acquisition of digitalimagery and generation of digital elevation models as well as orthophotos without the need of ground control. It is avery useful tool for the mapping of utility lines, roads, pipe lines, construction sites and so on. This paper focuses onthe major software subject of MapCam: aerotriangulation with GPS constraints. On the basis of high precision relativekinematic GPS positioning of a moving receiver antenna mounted on the airplane, GPS controlled aerotriangulation isused to compute the orientation parameters of all photographs without ground control points. The initial results withour new GPS aerotriangulation software in C++ are encouraging. Another application involving automatic extractionof digital elevation model and generation of orthophoto is just briefly mentioned in this paper.1. INTRODUCTION
Low-Volume-Road Lessons Learned: Minnesota Road Research Project

The Minnesota Department of Transportation built the Minnesota Road Research Project (MnROAD) and its low-volume road (LVR) between 1990 and 1993. The 2.5-mi LVR consists of a two-lane roadway that originally contained gravel, hot-mix asphalt, and concrete test sections designed for low-volume road research. Each of these test sections is trafficked by a controlled five-axle tractor-semitrailer to simulate conditions of rural roads in two load configurations, resulting in the same equivalent axle loads. Over the years, a number of activities and studies have taken place that have used information from MnROAD's LVR. The first 10 years of findings related to the LVR in the areas of facility, hot-mix asphalt, portland cement concrete, aggregate surfacing, seasonal load limits, and non-pavement-related lessons learned are summarized.
Propagation of an electromagnetic wave in an infinite rectangular dielectric wave guide

Abstract This paper develops a Green's dyadic for describing the propagating electromagnetic waves in a rectangular dielectric wave guide. The rectangular dielectric wave guide consists of an infinitely long rectangular bar, dielectric constant ϵ2, which is surrounded by a medium with dielectric constant ϵ1. These waves are shown to be TM, TE and HE modes; however, the TM and TE modes only exist for a wave guide of square cross-section. The Green's dyadic is determined when absorption is not present within the dielectric materials and when absorption is present.
A new glottal flow pulses extraction approach based on jointly parametric and nonparametric estimation

Linear prediction (LP) and complex cepstrum (CC) approaches have been shown to be effective for extracting glottal flow pulses (GFPs). This paper proposes a new approach, which first employs an odd-order LP analysis to find parameters of an all-pole model by least-squares (LS) methods and then uses deconvolution to obtain coarse GFPs by inverse filtering. Then, CC-based phase decomposition is used to obtain a refined estimate by further suppressing the remaining minimum-phase information from results after the inverse filtering. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this new approach by applying it to both synthetic and real speech voiced utterances.
Statistical approach to multiscale medial vision

Definition of objects in medical images requires a multiscale approach because important structure appears across a wide range of scales. Object boundaries, when they are required, must be inferred from the multiscale structure of the image and a priori knowledge. For many objectbased tasks, explicit identification of boundaries is not necessary. Instead, it is possible to base object measures on medial axes and their radius functions obtained using statistical methods. A medial approach makes the easy decisions about the membership of pixels in the object first. The difficult decisions about the boundaries are made using a fuzzy measure of "objectness" that can account for edge uncertainty, partial volume effects, and a priori information. Objectness diffuses outward from the medial axis, and non-objectness diffuses inward from medial axes of surrounding regions. Their competition in boundary regions defines objectness even in the absence of an edge. The area of an object is the integral of objectness across space. Statistical pattern recognition methods (supervised and unsupervised classification; linear projections) are used to identiQy medial axes in a feature space defined by multiscale Gaussian filters. The pattern describing a pixel is formed from the response at that location and nearby locations to the filters. Approximations to derivatives of Gaussians are linear subspaces of this feature space.
Isolation and chromosomal localization of the human endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3) gene

Abstract Nitric oxide (NO) is an important intercellular signaling molecule synthesized in diverse human tissues by proteins encoded by a family of NO synthase (NOS) genes. The similarity of sequence and cofactor binding sites has suggested that the NOS genes may also be related to cytochrome P450 reductase, as well as to plant and bacterial oxidoreductases. Endothelial NOS activity is a major determinant of vascular tone and blood pressure, and in several important (and sometimes hereditary) disease states, such as hypertension, diabetes, and atherosclerosis, the endothelial NO signaling system appears to be abnormal. To explore the relationship of the endothelial NOS gene to other similar genes, and to delineate the genetic factors involved in regulating endothelial NOS activity, we isolated the human gene encoding the endothelial NOS. Genomic clones containing the 5′ end of this genie were identified in a human genomic library by applying a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based approach. Identification of the human gene for endothelial NOS (NOS3) was confirmed by nucleotide sequence analysis of the first coding exon, which was found to be identical to its cognate cDNA. The NOS3 gene spans at least 20 kb and appears to contain multiple introns. The transcription start site and promoter region of the NOS3 gene were identified by primer extension and ribonuclease protection assays. Sequencing of the putative promoter revealed consensus sequences for the shear stress-response element, as well as cytokine-responsive cis regulatory sequences, both possibly important to the roles played by NOS3 in the normal and the diseased cardiovascular system. We also mapped the chromosomal location of the NOS3 gene. First, a chromosomal panel of human-rodent somatic cell hybrids was screened using PCR with oligonucleotide primers derived from the NOS3 genomic clone. The specificity of the amplified PCR product was confirmed by human and hamster genomic DNA controls, as well as by Southern blot analysis, using the NOS3 cDNA as probe. Definitive chromosomal assignment of the NOS3 gene to human chromosome 7 was based upon 0% discordancy; fluorescence in situ hybridization sublocalized the NOS3 gene to 7q36. The identification and characterization of the NOS3 gene may lead to further insights into heritable disease states associated with this gene product.
Fistula between degenerated uterine leiomyoma and the bladder: case report

Most common reason for the vesicouterine fistula is a cesarean section; no cases were reported of degenerated uterine leiomyoma communicating with the urinary bladder. We report a case of fistulous communication between the degenerated leiomyoma and the bladder. The patient's initial clinical presentation was consistent with recurrent UTI. She underwent multiple examinations including cystoscopy, cystouretrography, retrograde pyeolography, and MRI. The ultimate treatment was an exploratory laparotomy and en-block resection of the bladder wall, fistula tract, and degenerated leiomyoma. Fistula can develop between the bladder and degenerated leiomyoma and could be one of the reasons for the chronic pelvic pain and dysuria.
Why can't smart students solve simple programming problems?

Abstract Computer programming education is evolving on several fronts. This study investigated aspects of the question: how adequate are our conceptions of how to best teach the subject matter? Previous research suggested that the teaching of programming should be focused on "problem solving strategies" ("Model A") rather than on the syntactic/semantic aspects of writing programs ("Model B"). This study was designed to test for student programming performance differences based upon feedback content obtained from each of these two models. The results indicate that certain Pascal loop construct definitions are too general with respect to loop construction. A stricter loop schema resulted in superior performance. The findings also argue that the WHILE construct should receive stricter instructional treatment. In addition, a "constructive" approach to "Model A" feedback (focusing on programmer processes) correlated with subsequent performance superior to that of the control group, whereas neither the conventional approach to "Model A" feedback nor "Model B" feedback (focusing on programmer errors) did so. This finding argues that an approach which relies on narrative treatments and/or error messages is ineffective and that constructive decision rules should serve as a basis for feedback generation and perhaps other aspects of teaching.
Gel electrophoretic studies with reference to functional morphology of the salivary glands of Acanthaspis pedestris Stal. (Insecta: Heteroptera: Reduviidae)

Histological profile of the anterior and posterior lobes of the principal salivary and accessory glands of the reduviidAcanthaspis pedestris Stal. has been discussed in relation to enzyme pattern of the posterior lobe and the zootoxic substances of the anterior lobe as well as the protein fractions of the salivary gland lobes and the haemolymph.
Selecting measurements and controls in LQG problems

Procedures are given for the efficient determination of optimal inputs and outputs of a linear system driven by white noise. Beginning with a large admissible set of inputs and outputs of a linear dynamic system with a quadratic performance metric, an algorithm is given to reduce the number of inputs or outputs to a specified number so as to make the smallest perturbation in the performance metric. Such techniques are useful in selecting and locating sensors and actuators.
Triggering of allostery in an enzyme by a point mutation: ornithine transcarbamoylase

The origin of allostery is an unanswered question in the evolution of complex regulatory proteins. Anabolic ornithine transcarbamoylase, a trimer of identical subunits, is not an allosteric enzyme per se. However, when the active-site residue arginine-106 of the Escherichia coli enzyme is replaced with a glycine through site-directed mutagenesis, the resultant mutant enzyme manifests substrate cooperativity that is absent in the wild-type enzyme. Both homotropic and heterotropic interactions occur in the mutant enzyme. The initial velocity saturation curves of the substrates, carbamoyl phosphate and L-ornithine, conform to the Hill equation. The observed cooperativity depends on substrate but not enzyme concentration. The finding underscores the possibility that a single mutation of the enzyme in the cell could turn transcarbamoylation into a regulatory junction in the biosynthesis of L-arginine and urea.
Formation of DNA-protein cross-links in cultured mammalian cells upon treatment with iron ions.

Abstract Formation of DNA-protein crosslinks (DPCs) in mammalian cells upon treatment with iron or copper ions was investigated. Cultured murine hybridoma cells were treated with Fe(II) or Cu(II) ions by addition to the culture medium at various concentrations. Subsequently, chromatin samples were isolated from treated and control cells. Analyses of chromatin samples by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry after hydrolysis and derivatization revealed a significant increase over the background amount of 3-[(1,3-dihydro-2,4-dioxopyrimidin-5-yl)-methyl]- l -tyrosine (Thy-Tyr crosslink) in cells treated with Fe(II) ions in the concentration range of 0.01 to 1 mM. In contrast, Cu(II) ions at the same concentrations did not produce this DPC in cells. No DNA base damage was observed in cells treated with Cu(II) ions, either. Preincubation of cells with ascorbic acid or coincubation with dimethyl sulfoxide did not significantly alleviate the Fe(II) ion-mediated formation of DPCs. In addition, a modified fluorometric analysis of DNA unwinding assay was used to detect DPCs formed in cells. Fe(II) ions caused significant formation of DPCs, but Cu(II) ions did not. The nature of the Fe(II)-mediated DPCs suggests the involvement of the hydroxyl radical in their formation. The Thy-Tyr crosslink may contribute to pathological processes associated with free radical reactions.
The Human Resources Revolution: Implementing Progressive Management Practices for Bottom-Line Success

The article presents a review of the book “The Human Resources Revolution: Implementing Progressive Management Practices for Bottom-Line Success,” by Dennis J. Kravetz.
Harold Guetzkow's Legacy

Harold Guetzkow displayed great determination and a remarkable ability to push boundaries. In this article, I describe how these features have had an impact across generations, both in the social sciences and at Northwestern University. In so doing, I touch on the development of experiments in political science and the rise of political psychology.
Macrophages and methylthio groups in lymphocyte proliferation

Macrophages are shown to replace methylthio disulfides in supporting in vitro proliferation of three cell lines previously characterized as methylthio-dependent. Macrophages have the capacity to generate methylthio groups from methylthioadenosine. It is hypothesized that macrophages stimulate cell proliferation both in normal immune systems and in certain cancers by providing an abundance of methylthio groups. Fetal calf serum is shown to contain methylthio groups. It appears that, in cell cultures containing fetal calf serum, sulfhydryl compounds stimulate cell proliferation by making the methylthio groups in the serum available to the cells.
ULTRASTRUCTURAL LOCALIZATION OF CELL SURFACE IMMUNOSPECIFICITY IN ANABAENA AZOLLAE USING INDIRECT FLUORESCENT ANTIBODY STAINING

Antisera prepared against whole cells were used to differentiate between freshly isolated and cultured cyanobacteria from the nitrogen-fixing fern Azolla filiculoides using both light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM suggested that the differentiating antigens are evenly distributed on the cell wall outer membrane of the cyanobacteria. The fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-conjugated secondary antibody accumulation was sufficiently electron-dense to be detected without the need for either gold or ferritin labelling. Relative amounts of fluorescence which occurred on specimens viewed with fluorescent light microscopy were comparable to the thickness of electron dense material on the surfaces of these cells. Thus, it is possible to use the same immunological procedure to prepare cells for both light and TEM study.
IS BIGGER ALWAYS BETTER? THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN URBAN AREAS

What is the optimum size for a metropolitan areas? Is the quality of life in urban areas related to population size? The results of this study indicate that there is an apparent paradox. They demonstrate that for the 277 U.S. metropolitan areas there is a strong positive relationship between size of population and the quality of life using objective data from the Places Rated Almanac. Yet most attitudinal studies indicate that there is a negative correlation between SMSA size and the perceived quality of life. Possible reasons for this service paradox are investigated.
Clinical overview of dalfampridine: an agent with a novel mechanism of action to help with gait disturbances.

Abstract Background Medication used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) can be categorized as disease-modifying therapies, symptomatic therapies, or treatment of acute exacerbations. Dalfampridine is the first symptomatic therapy approved by the Food and Drug Administration to improve walking in patients with MS. Objective This article reviews the pharmacology, pharmacodynamic properties, and pharmacokinetic properties of dalfampridine, as well as its clinical efficacy, safety profile, pharmacoeconomic considerations, and place in therapy. Methods Three PubMed searches were conducted for original articles published in English between 1966 and August 2012 with human study participants . Articles concerning the pharmacology, pharmacokinetic properties, pharmacodynamic properties, efficacy, and safety profile of dalfampridine were evaluated. Results Dalfampridine theoretically works to improve conduction and enhance walking by inhibiting potassium channels in the axonal membrane and by prolonging action potentials in demyelinated neurons. The efficacy of dalfampridine has been reported in 2 Phase III clinical trials in patients with MS. When comparing dalfampridine 10 mg twice daily with placebo, these studies found a statistically significant improvement in walking (42.9% vs 9.3% and 35% vs 8%; P Conclusions Dalfampridine has a unique mechanism of action, leading to its approval as the first symptomatic therapy for MS to improve walking speed. The increased risk of seizures can be a significant safety concern and will require health care providers to be diligent in monitoring patients and to ensure adequate patient education. The addition of dalfampridine as symptomatic therapy for MS may lead to additional novel products in the future.
The polyharmonic local sine transform: A new tool for local image analysis and synthesis without edge effect☆

Abstract We introduce a new local sine transform that can completely localize image information both in the space domain and in the spatial frequency domain. This transform, which we shall call the polyharmonic local sine transform (PHLST), first segments an image into local pieces using the characteristic functions, then decomposes each piece into two components: the polyharmonic component and the residual. The polyharmonic component is obtained by solving the elliptic boundary value problem associated with the so-called polyharmonic equation (e.g., Laplace's equation, biharmonic equation, etc.) given the boundary values (the pixel values along the boundary created by the characteristic function). Subsequently this component is subtracted from the original local piece to obtain the residual. Since the boundary values of the residual vanish, its Fourier sine series expansion has quickly decaying coefficients. Consequently, PHLST can distinguish intrinsic singularities in the data from the artificial discontinuities created by the local windowing. Combining this ability with the quickly decaying coefficients of the residuals, PHLST is also effective for image approximation, which we demonstrate using both synthetic and real images. In addition, we introduce the polyharmonic local Fourier transform (PHLFT) by replacing the Fourier sine series above by the complex Fourier series. With a slight sacrifice of the decay rate of the expansion coefficients, PHLFT allows one to compute local Fourier magnitudes and phases without revealing the edge effect (or Gibbs phenomenon), yet is invertible and useful for various filtering, analysis, and approximation purposes.