cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Kinetics of Cooperative Cofilin Binding to Actin Filaments

The interaction of cofilin with actin filaments displays positive cooperativity. The equilibrium binding and associated thermodynamic parameters of this interaction are well described by a simplified, one-dimensional Ising model with nearest neighbor interactions [De La Cruz (2005) J. Mol. Biol. 346, 557-564]. Here we evaluate the ability of the model to account for cooperative association kinetics and to determine the kinetic contributions to cooperative binding. A Monte Carlo based simulation protocol that allows for nearest-neighbor interactions between adjacent binding sites was employed to globally fit time courses of cofilin binding. A consistent set of binding parameters in good agreement with the equilibrium thermodynamic parameters describes well the experimental data across a wide range of cofilin concentrations. We conclude that despite its simplicity, the one-dimensional Ising model with nearest neighbor cooperative interactions, is a reliable model for analyzing and interpreting the thermodynamics and kinetics of cooperative cofilin-actin filament interactions. The methods developed for this system will be applicable to the kinetics analysis of cooperative ligand binding to linear biological polymers.
In reference to "extended inferior turbinate flap for endoscopic reconstruction of skull base defects".

We read with great interest the article “Extended Inferior Turbinate Flap for Endoscopic Reconstruction of Skull Base Defects” by Choby et al.1 We congratulate the authors for a thorough anatomic and clinical study. We must take exception, however, in their claim that this idea is “novel” (defined as something new or unusual). This implies that the authors have designed a new technique and the work will be cited as such in future publications about a related subject. Extensions of the posterior pedicle inferior turbinate flap, including those described by the authors, were previously reported in 2011 by Rivera-Serrano et al.2 The authors elected not to cite this previous study. Taking into consideration that part of the work for the article by Rivera-Serrano et al was completed in the same anatomical laboratory as their study, it is a puzzling omission.
Stereochemistry of the wurtz-fittig preparation of vinylsilanes

Abstract The reactions of vinyl chlorides, bromides and iodides with sodium and trimethylsilyl chloride to give vinylsilanes have been shown to be stereospecific, with nearly complete retention of double bond configuration.
ScagExplorer: Exploring Scatterplots by Their Scagnostics

A scatter plot displays a relation between a pair of variables. Given a set of v variables, there are v(v- 1)/2 pairs of variables, and thus the same number of possible pair wise scatter plots. Therefore for even small sets of variables, the number of scatter plots can be large. Scatter plot matrices (SPLOMs) can easily run out of pixels when presenting high-dimensional data. We introduce a theoretical method and a testbed for assessing whether our method can be used to guide interactive exploration of high-dimensional data. The method is based on nine characterizations of the 2D distributions of orthogonal pair wise projections on a set of points in multidimensional Euclidean space. Working directly with these characterizations, we can locate anomalies for further analysis or search for similar distributions in a large SPLOM with more than a hundred dimensions. Our testbed, ScagExplorer, is developed in order to evaluate the feasibility of handling huge collections of scatter plots.
Most Nuclear Proteins Are Imported by a Single Pathway

Abstract Using kinetic competition analysis, we show that the import of most Xenopus oocyte nuclear proteins is directed by a single family of nuclear localization signals (NLS). The transport of microinjected [ 35 S]methionine-labeled nuclear proteins into oocyte nuclei was challenged with saturating concentrations of SV40 large T-antigen NLS peptide-BSA (P(Lys)-BSA) and was assessed by SDS-acrylamide gel electrophoresis and fluorography. P(Lys)-BSA was effective at competing the import of virtually all larger polypeptides but had a less marked effect on the mediated import of many smaller polypeptides. Wheat germ agglutinin, an inhibitor of nuclear pore complex function, enhanced the competitive effects of P(Lys)-BSA on the import of both large and small polypeptides. These data indicate that most 35 S-labeled Xenopus oocyte nuclear proteins, including nucleoplasmin, contain NLSs that are functionally related to the T-antigen NLS and probably employ the same cytosolic NLS receptor(s).
A low operating power FinFET transistor module featuring scaled gate stack and strain engineering for 32/28nm SoC technology

We show that FinFET, a leading transistor architecture candidate of choice for high performance CPU applications [1–3], can also be extended for general purpose SoC applications by proper device optimization. We demonstrate superior, best-in-its-class performance to our knowledge, as well as multi-Vt flexibility for low-operating power (LOP) applications. By high-k/metal-gate (HK/MG) and process flow optimizations, significant drive current (I ON ) improvement and leakage current (I OFF ) reduction have been achieved through equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) scaling and carrier mobility improvement. N-FinFET and P-FinFET achieve, when normalized to Weff (Weff=2xHf+Wf), I ON of 1325 µA/µm and 1000 µA/µm at 1 nA/µm leakage current under V DD of 1 V, and 960 uA/um and 690 uA/um at 1 nA/um under Vdd of 0.8V, respectively. This FinFET transistor module is promising for a 32/28nm SoC technology.
Predictor-corrector finite element approach for electroelastic analysis of hybrid composite plates

Abstract A predictor-corrector finite element approach is presented for the steady-state (static) electroelastic analysis of multilayered hybrid composite plates. The plates consist of a combination of fiber-reinforced and piezoelectric layers (or patches). The problem is formulated in terms of the displacement components and the electric potential. A two-dimensional finite element model is used in the predictor phase. Linear displacement variation and quadratic electric potential variation are assumed in the thickness direction (five displacement parameters and three electric potential parameters). The functional dependence of the displacement components and the electric potential are then calculated using three-dimensional equations. The corrected quantities are used to obtain better estimates for the different response quantities. The effectiveness of the predictor-corrector approach is demonstrated by numerical examples of five-layer plates consisting of four graphite-epoxy layers and one piezoelectric layer, subjected to transverse mechanical loading and electric potential.
Soluble Element Distributions in a Mojave Desert Soil

The distribution of chemical species in desert soils is a complex function of atmospheric inputs, rock weathering, chemical equilibria, soil leaching, and plant cycling. In this study of the surface 1 m of desert soils at the Nevada Test Site, we examined the distribution of soluble soil elements beneath plant canopies and in intershrub zones. We extracted watersoluble chemical species using saturation extracts that were equilibrated overnight and more dilute extracts that were incubated for 1 mo. All soil horizons were supersaturated with calcite and undersaturated with gypsum. Calcite supersaturation was a function of soil organic C (inhibitor) and water content (inhibitor diluent). It is critical that the latter two properties be explicitly recognized in modeling CaCO 3 mobility through soils. Plant-essential cations (K, Ca, and Mg) were highest in concentration in surface soils beneath plant canopies. Sodium, Cl, NO 3, and SO 4 were generally highest in concentration around 1-m depth. The dissimilar patterns of essential nutrient accumulations between the cations (Ca, K, and Mg) and the anions (NO 3 and SO 4 ) were probably due to the greater mobility of anions than cations. Also, these surface soils were "N saturated" due to their low N retention capacity, which accounts, at least in part, for the anomalous NO 3 accumulations at depths >1 m in Mojave Desert soils. Furthermore, once NO 3 or SO 4 have leached to deeper soil depths, they may be relatively unavailable for plant uptake. The soil elemental patterns are consistent with elemental plant requirements and elemental mobility.
EFFECT OF SALMON CALCITIONIN IN HYPERCALCEMIA OF IMMOBILIZATION: CALCITIONIN SUPPRESSION TEST FOR SERUM CALCIUM (Ca)

Immobilization hypercalcemia is related to accelerated bone resorption secondary to immobilization. Calcitonin has been shown to be a potent inhibitor of bone resorption in vivo. Hypercalcemia has also been reported in tuberculosis (TB) and sarcoidosis secondary to increased Ca absorption. A 10-yr-old black female was admitted with Potts disease and collapse of her 4th thoracic vertebra. She had complete paralysis of her lower extremities. She was treated with ioniazide, pyrazinamide, rifampin, and streptomycin. The involved vertebra was debrided and her spine stabilized. After two months of complete bed rest her serum CA was 14.5 mg/dl, P 4.5 mg/dl and uric acid 14.0 mg/dl. Hyperuricemia responded to allopurinol. Synthetic salmon calcitonin (Calcimar USV Pharm.) was given at 4 MRC units per Kg subcutaneously. Following calcitonin administration serum Ca in mg/dl was: The patient was kept on salmon calcitonin at 4 MRC U/Kg/day. Daily serum Ca levels were kept between 9.6 to 11.1 mg/dl. Synthetic salmon calcitonin at 2 to 4 MRC units suppresses bone resorption and lowers serum Ca concentrations in hypercalcemia of immobilization.
SU‐E‐T‐275: Dose Verification in a Small Animal Image‐Guided Radiation Therapy X‐Ray Machine: A Dose Comparison between TG‐61 Based Look‐Up Table and MOSFET Method for Various Collimator Sizes

Purpose: To verify the accuracy of TG‐61 based dosimetry with MOSFET technology using a tissue‐equivalent mouse phantom. Methods: Accuracy of mouse dose between a TG‐61 based look‐up table was verified with MOSFET technology. The look‐up table followed a TG‐61 based commissioning and used a solid water block and radiochromic film. A tissue‐equivalent mouse phantom (2 cm diameter, 8 cm length) was used for the MOSFET method. Detectors were placed in the phantom at the head and center of the body. MOSFETs were calibrated in air with an ion chamber and f‐factor was applied to derive the dose to tissue. In CBCT mode, the phantom was positioned such that the system isocenter coincided with the center of the MOSFET with the active volume perpendicular to the beam. The absorbed dose was measured three times for seven different collimators, respectively. The exposure parameters were 225 kVp, 13 mA, and an exposure time of 20 s. Results:For a 10 mm, 15 mm, and 20 mm circular collimator, the dosemeasured by the phantom was 4.3%, 2.7%, and 6% lower than TG‐61 based measurements, respectively. For a 10 × 10 mm, 20 × 20 mm, and 40 × 40 mm collimator, the dose difference was 4.7%, 7.7%, and 2.9%, respectively. Conclusions: The MOSFET data was systematically lower than the commissioning data. The dose difference is due to the increased scatter radiation in the solid water block versus the dimension of the mouse phantom leading to an overestimation of the actual dose in the solid water block. The MOSFET method with the use of a tissue‐ equivalent mouse phantom provides less labor intensive geometry‐specific dosimetry and accuracy with better dose tolerances of up to ± 2.7%.
High-resolution adaptive optics test bed for vision science

We discuss the design and implementation of a low-cost, high-resolution adaptive optics test-bed for vision research. It is well known that high-order aberrations in the human eye reduce optical resolution and limit visual acuity. However, the effects of aberration-free eyesight on vision are only now beginning to be studied using adaptive optics to sense and correct the aberrations in the eye. We are developing a high-resolution adaptive optics system for this purpose using a Hamamatsu Parallel Aligned Nematic Liquid Crystal Spatial Light Modulator. Phase-wrapping is used to extend the effective stroke of the device, and the wavefront sensing and wavefront correction are done at different wavelengths. Issues associated with these techniques will be discussed.
A late Messinian brackish water ostracod fauna of Paratethyan aspect from Le Vicenne Basin (Abruzzi, central Apennines, Italy)

Abstract In the lower portion of the sedimentary succession of the Le Vicenne Basin (Abruzzi, central Italy) 8 m of siltitic clays crop out, which bear a rich ostracod association in which the following fourteen taxa have been collected: Candona (Camptocypria) cf. C. (C.) venusta (Zalanyi), Candona (Camptocypria) sp., Leptocythere idonea Mandelstam, Markova, Rozyeva and Stepanajtys, Leptocythere multituberculata (Livental), Leptocythere palimpsesta (Livental), Leptocythere propinqua (Livental), Euxinocythere (Maeotocythere) praebaquana (Livental), Tyrrhenocythere pontica (Livental), Tyrrhenocythere ruggierii Devoto, Cyprideis agrigentina Decima, Cyprideis aff. C. tuberculata (Mehes), Loxoconcha eichwaldi Livental, Loxoconcha sp. and Loxoconcha cf. L. ludica Olteanu. The composition of the ostracod fauna shows a remarkable Paratethyan influence (ten species out of twelve are characteristic of the Paratethys domain and, among those, Leptocythere multituberculata, Leptocythere idonea and Loxoconcha cf. L. ludica are recorded for the first time in Italy). On the basis of comparison with similar ostracod assemblages found in the Mediterranean Basin (Spain, Corsica, France, Greece), the Le Vicenne association has been referred to the Loxoconcha djaffarovi Zone ( Carbonnel, 1978 ), correlated with the uppermost Messinian. During this time-interval the Mediterranean Basin was characterized by several isolated shallow water brackish basins which reproduced the environmental conditions existing in the Paratethyan domain during the Neogene. The existence of these widespread brackish water-bodies favoured the westward migration of the Paratethyan ostracod faunas and their colonization of the Western Tethys domain.
On Sampling Errors in Empirical Orthogonal Functions

Abstract A perturbation analysis is carried out to quantify the eigenvector errors due to the mixing with other eigenvectors that occur when empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs) are computed for a finite-size data sample. Explicit forms are provided for the second-order eigenvalue error and first-order eigenvector error. The eigenvector sampling error depends monotonically on the ratio of the lower to the higher eigenvalues that mix. The relationship to the eigenvalue separation criterion of North et al. is discussed. The eigenvector error formula is applied to quantify sampling errors for the leading EOF of the Northern Hemisphere wintertime geopotential height at various pressure levels, and it is found that the smallest sampling error in the troposphere occurs for the sea level pressure EOF. The errors in the 500-hPa height EOFs are almost twice as large.
Characteristics of Prostate Cancer in Families Potentially Linked to the Hereditary Prostate Cancer 1 (HPC1) Locus

Context.\p=m-\Ap proximately 9% of prostate cancer cases have been estimated to result from inheritance of mutated prostate cancer susceptibility genes. Few data exist as to whether there are clinical differences between prostate cancers that are inherited and those that occur in the general population. Objective.\p=m-\ To investigate phenotypic characteristics of families potentially linked to the hereditary prostate cancer 1 (HPC1) locus on chromosome 1q24-25. Design.\p=m-\Ret rospective case study in which clinical data were extracted from medical and pathological records. Families.\p=m-\A total of 74 North American families with hereditary prostate cancer. Prostate cancer cases from the National Cancer Data Base were used as a reference population for comparison. Main Outcome Measures.\p=m-\T he families were divided into 2 groups: either potentially linked (33 families with 133 men with prostate cancer), and thus likely to be carrying an altered HPC1 gene, or potentially unlinked (41 families with 172 men with prostate cancer), on the basis of haplotype analysis in the region of HPC1. The age at diagnosis of prostate cancer, serum prostate-specific antigen levels, digital rectal examination status, stage, grade, primary treatment of prostate cancers, and occurrence of other cancers were compared between the groups. Rresults.\p=m-\T he mean age at diagnosis of prostate cancer for men in potentially linked families was significantly lower than for men in potentially unlinked families (63.7 vs 65.9 years, respectively, P=.01; mean age at diagnosis in the reference population was 71.6 years). Higher-grade cancers (grade 3) were more common in potentially linked families, and advanced-stage disease was found in 41% of the case patients in potentially linked families compared with 31% in both the potentially unlinked families and the reference groups (P=.03 for the latter comparison). In the other clinical parameters, we found no significant differences between the groups. A modest excess of breast cancer and colon cancer was found in potentially linked families in comparison with potentially unlinked families, but this difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions.\p=m
Detection of immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangement by polymerase chain reaction in chronic active gastritis associated with Helicobacter pylori

Abstract Chronic active gastritis associated with Helicobacter pylori (CAG-Hp) has been linked to the pathogenesis of gastric B-cell lymphomas of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT). To determine whether monoclonal lymphoid populations are present in CAG-Hp and histological predictors of monoclonality exist, the authors examined 46 endoscopic biopsies from 41 patients with CAG-Hp. The authors scored gastric biopsies for the presence of lymphoepithelial lesions (LELs), intensity of lymphoid infiltrate, presence of lymphoid aggregates and germinal centers, coexpression of CD43 (Leu 22) on B cells, and cytoplasmic immunoglobulin light chain restriction in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues. DNA extracts from these routinely processed tissues were analyzed for immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) gene rearrangement by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Histological features, immunophenotype, gene rearrangement status, and clinical information were correlated. Six of the 46 biopsies (13%) from six of 41 patients (15%) showed a monoclonal PCR pattern. Monoclonal PCR patterns correlated with the presence of LELs ( P P P H pylori is involved in the pathogenesis of low grade gastric B-cell MALT lymphomas.
Role of Rapsyn Tetratricopeptide Repeat and Coiled-coil Domains in Self-association and Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Clustering *

Rapsyn, a 43-kDa peripheral membrane protein of skeletal muscle, is essential for clustering nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) in the postsynaptic membrane. Previous studies with rapsyn NH2-terminal fragments fused to green fluorescent protein, expressed in 293T cells along with nAChRs, establish the following: Rapsyn-(1–90), containing the myristoylated amino terminus and two tetratricopeptide repeats (TPRs), was sufficient for self-association at the plasma membrane; rapsyn-(1–287), containing seven TPRs, did not cluster nAChRs; whereas rapsyn-(1–360), containing a coiled-coil domain (rapsyn-(298–331)), clustered nAChRs. To further analyze the role of rapsyn structural domains in self-association and nAChR clustering, we have characterized the clustering properties of additional rapsyn mutants containing deletions and substitutions within the TPR and coiled-coil domains. A mutant lacking the coiled-coil domain alone (rapsyn-(▴288–348)), failed to cluster nAChRs. Within the coiled-coil domain neutralization of the charged side chains was tolerated, while alanine substitutions of large hydrophobic residues resulted in the loss of nAChR clustering. Rapsyn self-association requires at least two TPRs, as a single TPR (TPR1 or TPR2 alone) was not sufficient. While TPRs 1 and 2 are sufficient for self-association, they are not necessary, as TPRs 3–7 also formed clusters similar to wild-type rapsyn. Fragments containing TPRs co-localized with full-length rapsyn, while the expressed coiled-coil or RING-H2 domain did not. These results are discussed in terms of a homology model of rapsyn, based on the three-dimensional structure of the TPR domain of protein phosphatase 5.
Drug, doctor's verbal attitude and clinic setting in the symptomatic response to pharmacotherapy.

138 psychoneurotic outpatients manifesting anxiety were treated for 6 weeks with medication and brief, supportive interviews every 2 weeks with a psychiatric resident. The patients were divided among 12 different treatment conditions composed of 1. meprobamate 1,600 mg q.i.d. versus an identical placebo in a double-blind arrangement, 2. a doctor expressing an enthusiastic attitude toward the medication versus a doctor expressing a skeptical attitude toward the medication and 3. three different psychiatric outpatient clinics. The patient's symptomatic condition was assessed at each visit by means of five ratings made by the patient before each interview and three ratings made by his doctor afterward. These ratings included an overall judgment of change, a checklist of 64 common symptoms, a score based on the patient's presenting complaints and adjective checklists for registering anxiety and depression. The results at one clinic showed the expected interaction between medication and doctor's expressed attitude: with the enthusiastic doctors, patients taking meprobamate improved more than patients taking placebo; whereas with the skeptical doctors, patients taking placebo tended to improve more than patients taking meprobamate. At the other two clinics, however, this interaction was absent or possibly reversed, with meprobamate tending to be superior to placebo with skeptical doctors. Some striking clinic differences among the characteristics of patients were found, particularly in social class status and the commonly associated styles of complaint and goals and expectations regarding treatment. The clinic showing the anticipated interaction between medication and doctor's verbal attitude had patients with the lowest social class standing. The doctors at this clinic also came from backgrounds of lower social class than the doctors at the other two clinics. These differences suggest that the participants at this clinic may have assigned meanings to the enthusiastic and the skeptical attitudes contrasting with the meanings assigned at the other two clinics. The possible relevenace of these differences to the results is discussed.
GEOTECHNICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ATMOSPHERIC FLUIDIZED BED COMBUSTION ASH AND STOKER ASH

Results of geotechnical and environmental laboratory tests on atmospheric fluidized bed combustion ash and stoker ash are presented. The testing program is directed toward assessing the adequacy of using these materials as structural fill in roadway embankment construction. Geotechnical tests include specific gravity, standard Proctor compaction, permeability, California bearing ratio, strength, and swell tests. Environmental tests include bulk chemical analysis of major and trace elements, toxicity characteristic leachate procedure, extraction procedure toxicity, and Indiana neutral water leachate tests. The fluidized bed combustion ash and mixtures with stoker ash exhibit significant cementitious strength increase, and swelling with time. The implications of test results relative to use as structural fill are discussed.
Molecular systematics of eastern North American Phalangodidae (Arachnida: Opiliones: Laniatores), demonstrating convergent morphological evolution in caves.

The phalangodid harvestmen (Opiliones: Laniatores) fauna of the southeastern United States has remained obscure since original descriptions of many genera and species over 60 years ago. The obscurity of this interesting group is pervasive, with uncertainty regarding basic systematic information such as generic limits, species limits, and geographic distributions. This situation is unfortunate, as the fauna includes several cave-obligate forms of interest from both conservation and evolutionary perspectives, and the group likely exhibits interesting biogeographic patterns because of their low dispersal ability. Here, we use DNA sequence data from two genes to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships of southeastern phalangodid taxa, for a sample of all described genera from the region. Our results demonstrate that the southeastern fauna is likely monophyletic, and is most-closely related to western North American phalangodids with a similar penis morphology. Within the southeastern clade, trends in the evolution of penis morphology correspond broadly to molecular phylogenetic patterns, although penis evolution is overall relatively conservative in the group. Biogeographically, it appears that western taxa in the southeast (i.e., from west of the Appalachian Valley) are early diverging, with later diversification in the montane southern Blue Ridge, and subsequent diversification back towards the west. This W > E > W pattern has been observed in other groups from the southeast. The multiple cave-modified species in the region are genetically divergent and appear phylogenetically isolated; explicit topological hypothesis testing suggests that troglomorphism has evolved convergently in at least three independent lineages. The total number of species in the region remains uncertain—mitochondrial COI data reveal many highly divergent, geographically coherent groups that might represent undescribed species, but these divergent mitochondrial lineages do not always exhibit divergence in either nuclear sequences or penis morphology. Many questions remain, but our studies provide a solid framework for further systematic investigations of this interesting group.
Entrainment and Detrainment in Numerically Simulated Cumulus Congestus Clouds. Part II: Cloud Budgets

Abstract This paper is the second in a three-part series in which a three-dimensional numerical cloud model is used to simulate cumulus congestus clouds at high resolution in an effort to better understand the mechanisms associated with entrainment and detrainment. The prescribed environment is that associated with nonprecipitating summertime New Mexican cumulus clouds that formed on consecutive days. Using budgets of mass and moisture, the effects of the clouds and their environment are examined here with an emphasis on understanding the life cycle of the clouds and the production of narrow detrainment layers aloft. Results are compared with measurements obtained in similar environments. The mass flux profiles indicate the presence of a strong, persistent thermally driven circulation within the boundary layer, with the cloud circulation being secondary. Collapsing turrets appear to be responsible for the significant detrainment that occurs at mid levels within one simulated cloud. Transport by downdrafts...
FLUshing in the bathroom

![Figure][1] Insight from (left to right) Carolina Amezcua, Nicola Gagliani, and Richard Flavell Seasonal influenza represents a contagious family of respiratory viruses that infect 5–30% of the global population yearly and account for as many as 500,000 deaths annually. Flu infection is
Data replication strategies for fault tolerance and availability on commodity clusters

Recent work has shown the advantages of using persistent memory transaction processing. In particular the Vista transaction system uses recoverable memory to avoid disk I/O, thus improving performance by several orders of magnitude. In such a system, however the data is safe when a node fails, but unavailable until it recovers, because the data is kept in only one memory. In contrast, our work uses data replication to provide both reliability and data availability while still maintaining very high transaction throughput. We investigate four possible designs for a primary-backup system, using a cluster of commodity servers connected by a write-through capable system area network (SAN). We show that logging approaches outperform mirroring approaches, even when communicating more data, because of their better locality. Finally, we show that the best logging approach also scales well to small shared-memory multiprocessors.
Data management for exploring complex time-dependent flow datasets

The ever increasing number of data-intensive scientific visualizations motivate the need for high-performance data management support. One such example is given from a simulation and visualization system that assists the physician in the planning and execution of a novel, non-invasive, and very effective treatment of brain aneurysm. The output dataset of this blood flow simulation is very large and information rich and demands an effective means to gaining insights into the nature of time-varying flow fields. For this purpose, we built a computing environment which exploits efficient data storage and management techniques to provide a sufficient performance for real time visualization. Our approach has substantial advantages for achieving higher access efficiency and storage utilization, yielding frame rates suitable for interactive visualization on common desktop workstations. Practical experiments indicate that the techniques developed in this environment can provide the basic building blocks for future efficient implementation of large complex data visualization systems.
Microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition of nano-composite C/Pt thin-films

Abstract Composite carbon–platinum thin-films of nano-crystalline graphitic carbon decorated with uniformly-dispersed 2–4 nm Pt nano-particles have been synthesized from a solid organic precursor by a one-step microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD). The fast Ar-plasma discharge and the presence of microwave radiation accelerate the formation of sites suitable for in situ heterogeneous nucleation, and consequently, the fine dispersion of metal in the carbonaceous matrix. The electrochemical response of the 2 μm C/Pt thin-film electrode displays electrochemical activity, which is attributed to the high ca. 18 m 2 /g effective surface area of Pt nano-particles.
Myogenic Responses of Mouse Isolated Perfused Renal Afferent Arterioles Effects of Salt Intake and Reduced Renal Mass

Because defects in renal autoregulation may contribute to renal barotrauma in chronic kidney disease, we tested the hypothesis that the myogenic response is diminished by reduced renal mass. Kidneys from 5/6 nephrectomized mice had only a minor increase in the glomerular sclerosis index. The telemetric mean arterial pressure (108±10 mm Hg) was unaffected after 3 months of high-salt intake (6% salt in chow) or reduced renal mass. Afferent arterioles from 5/6 nephrectomized mice and sham-operated controls were perfused ex vivo during step changes in pressure from 40 to 134 mm Hg. Afferent arterioles developed a constriction and a linear increase in active wall tension above a perfusion pressure of 36±6 mm Hg, without a plateau. The slope of active wall tension versus perfusion pressure defined the myogenic response, which was similar in sham mice fed normal or high-salt diets for 3 months (2.90±0.22 versus 3.22±0.40 dynes · cm −1 /mm Hg; P value not significant). The myogenic response was unaffected after 3 days of reduced renal mass on either salt diet (3.39±0.61 versus 4.04±0.47 dynes · cm −1 /mm Hg) but was reduced ( P −1 /mm Hg). In conclusion, mouse renal afferent arterioles develop a linear increase in myogenic tone around the range of ambient perfusion pressures. This myogenic response is impaired substantially in the mouse model of prolonged reduced renal mass, especially during high salt intake.
A comparison of alternative input models for synthetic optimization problems

We analyze two strategies for randomly generating optimization test problems with two types of coefficients. One strategy is to generate test problems with independent coefficients; the other strategy is to generate test problems with induced correlation between the coefficient types. We discuss the likely effect of test problem size, i.e., the number of decision variables, on the sample correlations among the test problem coefficients generated with each strategy. We also propose some guidelines for experimenters based on our analysis.
Identification of spinal neurons involved in the urethrogenital reflex in the female rat.

The urethrogenital (UG) reflex is a spinal sexual reflex that consists of autonomic and somatic nerve activity and vaginal, uterine, and anal sphincter contractions. The UG reflex is under tonic descending inhibition by neurons in the region of the nucleus paragigantocellularis (nPGi). The location of spinal neurons activated by the UG reflex was examined in the female rat using the immediate early gene, c-fos. In addition, the descending inputs from the nPGi onto fos-activated neurons was examined using the anterograde tracer biotin dextran amine injected into the nPGi. The UG reflex resulted in a significant increase in fos-positive nuclei in segments T12-S1, compared with experimental controls in which the UG reflex was not activated. Spinal circuits involved in the UG reflex include neurons relaying afferent information from the pudendal sensory nerve, in the dorsal horn and medial cord of L5-S1. Efferent output includes preganglionic neurons located in the lateral gray of L5-S1 and lateral and medial gray of T13-L2. Spinal interneurons involved in the UG reflex were found close to the preganglionic neurons and in the dorsal horn and intermediate and medial gray of T12-S1. NPGi inputs were found primarily on the autonomic efferents and interneurons in the medial and intermediate gray. These studies demonstrate multisegmental spinal circuits activated with the UG reflex and demonstrate that the descending inhibition from the nPGi is by means of preganglionic and somatic efferents and spinal interneurons closely associated with the efferent output.
Predictive energy management of a power-split hybrid electric vehicle

In this paper, a Model Predictive Control (MPC) strategy is developed for the first time to solve the optimal energy management problem of power-split hybrid electric vehicles. A power-split hybrid combines the advantages of series and parallel hybrids by utilizing two electric machines and a combustion engine. Because of its many modes of operation, modeling a power-split configuration is complex and devising a near-optimal power management strategy is quite challenging. To systematically improve the fuel economy of a power-split hybrid, we formulate the power management problem as a nonlinear optimization problem. The nonlinear powertrain model and the constraints are linearized at each sample time and a receding horizon linear MPC strategy is employed to determine the power split ratio based on the updated model. Simulation results over multiple driving cycles indicate better fuel economy over conventional strategies can be achieved. In addition the proposed algorithm is causal and has the potential for real-time implementation.
Long term follow up and analysis of long term survivors in patients treated with paclitaxel-based concurrent chemo/radiation therapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

Summary Purpose: For patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LANSCLC), concurrent chemotherapy/radiation therapy (RT) has become the standard of care. Three multi-institutional phase II studies with paclitaxel-based chemotherapeutic regimen given concurrently with RT for patients with LANSCLC were performed from March of 1994 to May of 1997. We sought to determine mature data from this database of patients, as well as to perform analysis of a cohort of patients who have achieved long term survival (LTS) when treated with this regimen. Patients and methods: Database of these patients was analyzed retrospectively upon longer follow up, with median follow up for the three studies being 498 days (range 11–2905 days, average 780 days). Weight loss limitation for the three studies was liberal: weight loss Results: The 4-year overall survival (OS) for the three trials was 16.3%, and 2-year progression free survival (PFS) was 25.7%. Statistical analysis of the long term survivors (OS > 4 years) was performed, and performance status (PS) was found to be a significant factor predictive of LTS. PS of 0 compared to 1 yielded a 2.5-fold increased likelihood of LTS (p = .04). There was also a trend (p = .067) for responders (complete or partial response) to yield a five-fold likelihood of LTS compared to non-responders (stable or progressive disease). Conclusion: Our results support the efficacy of combined modality therapy (CMT) for patients with LANSCLC even despite our more liberal weight loss eligibility criteria. Furthermore, our analysis indicates that LTS is more likely to be achievable in patients with PS = 0 compared to 1 when treated with CMT for LANSCLC.
On computing the average orientation of vectors and lines

Computing the “average” orientation of lines and rotations is non-trivial due to the need to account for the periodicity of rotation. For example, the average of +10 and +350 degrees is 0 (or 360) degrees, not 180. This problem arises in many disciplines, particularly those in which empirically collected data is processed or filtered. In this paper, we review a common but sub-optimal method for computing average orientation and provide a new geometric interpretation. We also propose a new method which provides additional insights into the geometry of the problem. Our new method also produces significantly more accurate results in the regime of operation usually encountered in robotics applications. We characterize this regime and provide guidance regarding which method to use, and when.
Production of metabolic gases by nests of the termite Macrotermes jeanneli in Kenya

Nests of a fungus-growing termite Macrotermes jeanneli discharge all their metabolic gases through a single outlet to the atmosphere. This made it possible to measure the production of metabolic gases, and the rates of water loss, for intact nests in the field. Rates of production of carbon dioxide and methane from isolated nest components (different termite castes and intact fungus combs) were measured. Using previously published nest population data and fungus comb weights in relation to nest size, the expected gas production rates for intact nests were calculated. These estimates were compared with direct observations of the gaseous outflow from intact nests. The rates were in reasonable agreement, but some nests emitted excess carbon dioxide, probably produced by respiration of tree roots and non-termite soil organisms. Large nests may have a total gas outflow of 100,000 to 400,000 1 d–1 including 800 to 1500 1 d–1 of CO2 and 0.5 to 1.3 1 d–1 of CH4. Nests lose water at the rate of up, to 13 1 d–1 gross, but allowing for ambient humidity the net water loss was up to about 5 1 d–1. Some of this is metabolic water, but the larger proportion comes from the soil. Area-based estimates of gas production were made for this and two other species of Macrotermes, but they are not accurate because the field distribution and mound density are not adequately known.
One-step Backprojection Algorithm for Computed Tomography

The iterative algorithm can incorporate various physical aspects into its reconstruction process, leading to a more accurate image than the filtered backprojection algorithm. One drawback of the iterative algorithm is that it requires many iterations to produce the final images. In this paper, we show that we can reconstruct the same images as the Landweber iterative method in "one step." We reformulate the iterative procedure into a matrix multiplication, build the matrix and store it on disk. We use this matrix to reconstruct images in one step. The reconstructed images are exactly the same as the ones that are reconstructed by the Landweber iterative method.
Heritability of epileptic seizures in the Belgian tervueren

Survey data were collected on the incidence of epileptic seizures in 997 Belgian tervuerens. The heritability of this disorder was estimated as 0.77 (with a 95 per cent confidence interval spanning from 0.65 to 0.88) using a Bayesian analysis in an ordered categorical threshold model. Single locus models do not appear adequate as an explanation for this inherited seizure disorder. The high heritability estimate suggests that breeders can wage a successful battle against this disorder by breeding unaffected individuals, particularly those from families with no history of seizures.
Synchronization and scheduling in ALPS objects

The synchronization and scheduling mechanisms used in an object-oriented concurrent programming language called ALPS are described. The main contributions of ALPS are the concept of a manager process and the concept of a hidden procedure array. An object can have a special high-priority process called a manager which intercepts entry calls and implements the necessary synchronization and scheduling for the object. The manager can be programmed to implement any form of preprocessing and postprocessing for the entry calls and to monitor the object. The concept of a hidden procedure array allows an entry procedure to be exported as a single procedure but implemented as a procedure array. When multiple calls to the entry procedure arrive at the object, each call gets attached to a different element of the hidden procedure array. This simplifies the programming of concurrency within an object. The language mechanisms are illustrated using several examples. >
Cyanobenzyl and chlorobenzyl radicals via anion photoelectron imaging spectroscopy

Abstract We report the adiabatic electron affinity of the cyanobenzyl radical, EA(PhCHCN) = 1.90 ± 0.01 eV, determined from a combination of the experiment and theory, and assign an upper limit of the EA for the chlorobenzyl radical, EA(PhCHCl) ≤ 1.12 eV. From these results, the C H bond dissociation energies at the benzyl-α sites of the corresponding closed-shell parent molecules are determined: 80.9 ± 2.3 kcal mol −1 for benzyl nitrile and an upper limit of 84.2 kcal mol −1 for benzyl chloride. These results are discussed in terms of substituent interactions and in relation to other similar molecules.
Toxicity, synergism, and neurological effects of novel volatile insecticides in insecticide-susceptible and -resistant Drosophila strains.

Naturally derived volatile insecticides from the heterobicyclic and formate ester classes were investigated using a combination of volatility and synergist bioassays. In these studies,Drosophila melanogaster (Meigen) was used as a model for other medically important dipterans. In addition to a susceptible strain (Canton-S), three mutant strains were tested that included a strain resistant by P450-based metabolism (Hikone-R) and two resistant neurological mutant strains; one voltage-gated sodium channel mutant (para ts-1 ) and one GABA-gated chloride channel mutant (Rdl). In general, the 11 tested insecticides displayed a diversity of toxicity, metabolism, and resistance characteristics that correlate with their structural diversity. Several important trends were revealed by these studies, including hydrolase- and cytochrome P450 (P450)-based activation, P450-based resistance, distinct patterns of neurological activity, and negative cross-resistance with established insecticides. These Þndings provide important insight into the metabolism and modes of action for the volatile insecticides. These Þndings also suggest potential approaches for insecticide deployment in integrated vector management and resistance management programs.
Methods for extracting RNA or ribosomes from microbial mats and cultivated microorganisms

The division of Section 1 of this manual into many chapters on methods for isolation of DNA or RNA from various natural habitats reflects the opinion that the best method may depend upon which type of nucleic acid is sought from which type of habitat. As the various chapters will undoubtedly exhibit, many methods have been used to extract nucleic acids from different natural habitats. For example, in the specific case of microbial mats, hot phenolic, detergent and enzymatic methods have been used to obtain DNA for PCR amplification [3, 6, and H. Paerl, personal communication]. Further, enzymatic and French press methods have been used to obtain small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) for cDNA synthesis [18, 19] and French press [9] and bead-beater methods (B. Rissati and D. Stahl, personal communication) have been used to obtain SSU rRNA for hybridization probe studies. Very few studies, however, report a comparison of different methods applied to a single system [e.g., 5, 8]. For instance each of the studies reporting RNA extraction methods [e.g., 2, 4, 10, 13] report a single method. While this may result from a tendency to report only the optimized method, we feel that a comparison of different methods is informative, as it is possible that methods will have similar biases when applied to either DNA or RNA recovery from many different habitats.
Organizing Large Ski Classes

(1972). Organizing Large Ski Classes. Journal of Health, Physical Education, Recreation: Vol. 43, No. 8, pp. 24-24.
The Ethics of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Participant Recruitment

We show that descriptions of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in recruitment materials for studies are inconsistent with descriptions of the method in resulting academic publications, and examine the consequences of the discrepancy. Study 1 shows that TMS is more likely to be described as “brain stimulation” in recruitment materials, but more likely to be described as “brain disruption” in the literature. Studies 2-4 show that when recruitment materials present TMS as “brain stimulation” rather than “brain disruption,” participants think TMS is less risky, and are more likely to sign up for the studies. Study 5 shows that participants presented with a neutral description of TMS view “brain stimulation” as a deceptive description. Based on these results, we question the ethical acceptability of the current standard of recruitment for studies involving TMS, and argue that current practices limit the ability of potential research participants to make informed decisions about participation.
Household Instability and Unpredictable Earnings Hinder Coping in Households with Food Insecure Children

ABSTRACTThis mixed-methods study explored the circumstances and coping strategies of households at risk of food insecurity among children. Quantitative analyses guided the selection of two samples of households: (1) at risk for food insecure children, yet children were food secure (n = 19) and (2) with food insecure children (n = 54). Qualitative interviews with parents revealed that households with food insecure children were complex and fluctuating in composition and had unpredictable earnings. Coping strategies were similar in both samples, except that households with at risk yet food secure children described home cooking, a household coping strategy that may be attributed to their stable household composition and resources.