cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Algorithms for Randomizing Key Item Locations in Game Worlds

In the past few years, game randomizers have become increasingly popular. In general, a game randomizer takes some aspect of a game that is usually static and shuffles it somehow. In particular, in this paper we will discuss the type of randomizer that shuffles the locations of items in a game where certain key items are needed to traverse the game world and access some of these locations. Examples of these types of games include series such as The Legend of Zelda and Metroid . In order to accomplish this shuffling in such a way that the player is able to reach the end of the game, some novel algorithms in graph theory must be utilized, where the game world and its item locations are represented as a graph and each edge on the graph has some rule for which items are required to traverse it. In this paper, we define these algorithms formally and evaluate them with different metrics that can guide a developer’s decision about which algorithm works best for their game.
Multivariable Dynamic Input Shaping for Two-Axis Fast Steering Mirror

Abstract A two-axis Fast Steering Mirror (FSM) is a commonly used mechanical component used in optical imaging and laser beam steering. This paper shows how inverse kinematic analysis and dynamic input shaping can be used to compute the two-axis input signals for the actuation of a FSM to be able to track a desired output trajectory. The approach is based on quasi-static kinematic analysis and dynamic modeling of a two-axis FSM multivariable motion from experimental step response data. It is shown how open-loop tracking can be improved by properly designed dynamic input shaping signals that take into account the inverse kinematics and dynamic response of the FSM.
A broadband integrated time series (BITS) for longitudinal analyses of the digital divide

To evaluate actions taken to implement the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the primary goal of which was to foster competition in the industry, the FCC created a standardized form (Form 477) to collect information about broadband deployment and competition in local telephone service. These data represent the best publicly available record of broadband provision in the United States. Despite the potential benefits offered by this database, there are several nuances to these data related to shifting geographies and reporting requirements that uncorrected, prevent them from being used as an uninterrupted time series for longitudinal analyses. Given the analytical challenges associated with the FCC Form 477 data, the purpose of this paper is to present a solution to the fragmented nature of these data which prevents meaningful longitudinal analyses of the digital divide. Specifically, this paper develops and describes a procedure for producing an integrated broadband time series (BITS) for the last decade (2008-2018). This includes the procedures for using these data, their value to social and economic analysis, and their underlying limitations. The core contribution of this paper is the creation of data infrastructure for investigating the evolution of the digital divide.
Visual Decoding of Phrases from Occipital Neuromagnetic Signals

Orthographic visual perception (reading) is encoded via a widespread dynamic interaction between different language centers of the brain and visual cortex. In this study, we investigated orthographic visual perception decoding with Magnetoencephalography (MEG), where phrases were visually presented to participants. We compared the decoding performance obtained with sensors within the occipital lobe that obtained with sensors covering the whole head. Two naive machine learning classifiers namely support vector machines (SVM) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were used. Experimental results indicated that the decoding performance using only occipital sensors is similar to the performance obtained with all sensors within the task period, which were all above chance level. In addition, temporal analysis by taking short-time windows showed that the occipital sensors were more discriminative near onset compared to later time periods, while using the whole head sensor setup at later time periods performed slightly better than occipital sensors. This finding may indicate a sequential order (from visual cortex to other areas beyond occipital lobe) during visual speech perception.
A Simple, Inexpensive, Mercury-Free Bubbler Apparatus

Inert gas manifolds for the handling of air-sensitive materials are commonplace in the inorganic chemistry curriculum as well as in research laboratories specializing in inorganic and organometallic synthesis. Mercury bubblers are ubiquitously implemented for maintaining a positive internal pressure for air-free manifold systems, commonly known as Schlenk lines. This has rendered them difficult to replace with equivalent and accessible alternatives. This communication describes the setup and implementation of a simple, inexpensive alternative to the traditional mercury bubbler that is modular and flexible enough to fit most any laboratory space.
Family Communication: Examining the Differing Perceptions of Parents and Teens Regarding Online Safety Communication

The opportunity for online engagement increases possible exposure to potentially risky behaviors for teens, which may have significant negative consequences. Effective family communication about online safety can help reduce the risky adolescent behavior and limit the consequences after it occurs. Our paper contributes a theory of communication factors that positively influence teen and parent perception of communication about online safety and provides design implications based on those findings. While previous work identified gaps in family communication regarding online safety, our study quantitatively identified the factors that significantly contribute to parents' and teens' differing perceptions. We analyzed data from a survey of 215 teen-parent pairs through a cross-sectional design and examined the factors that contribute to increased family communication about online safety. For parents, active mediation, technical monitoring, and a perceived positive affect of the teen were associated with higher levels of family communication. Our results were similar for teens, except that the teen's online safety concern and parental monitoring were also positively associated with increased family communication, while restrictive mediation was associated with lower levels of family communication. Many existing designs for online safety support a restrictive approach, despite teens not wanting technical restrictions. A key implication of our findings is that teens view active mediation and monitoring positively in respect to family communication. Contrary to mainstream narratives, this finding suggests that teens value parental involvement and do not desire complete independence online. By examining specific mechanisms which can hinder or improve family communication between parents and teens regarding online safety, we recommend solutions that give teens an active role in their online safety and facilitate effective family communication through cooperation between both parties, rather than technologies that promote parental restriction.
A new definition for massive transfusion in the modern era of whole blood resuscitation.

BACKGROUND: Multiple thresholds are defined to identify patients at risk of death from hemorrhage, including massive transfusion (MT), critical administration threshold (CAT), and resuscitation intensity (RI). All fail to account for the use of whole blood (WB). We hypothesized that a definition including WB transfusion would better predict early mortality following trauma. METHODS: This is a retrospective review of all trauma patients with activation of the MT protocol from December 2018 to February 2020. Combinations of WB, RBCs, and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) units transfused during the initial hour of resuscitation were compared using receiver operating characteristic and area under the receiver curve (AUC) for 3- and 6-h mortality. WB massive transfusion (WB MT) score was defined as the sum of each unit RBC plus three times each unit of WB transfused within the first hour of resuscitation. RESULTS: There were 235 patients eligible for analysis with 60 resuscitated using ≥1 unit of WB. Overall, 27 and 29 patients died in the first 3 and 6 h, respectively. WB MT ≥7 had the greatest 3-h and 6-h mortality AUC values (0.78 and 0.79, respectively) when compared to MT, CAT, RI4+, and other attempted definitions using units of WB, RBC, and FFP. Compared to WB MT-, WB MT+ patients died at significantly higher rates at 3 h (28.9% vs. 3.1%, p < .001), 24 h (35.5% vs. 5.7%, p < .001), and 28 days (42.1% vs. 11.9%, p < .001). CONCLUSION: WB MT is the first measure of massive resuscitation to incorporate WB and better identifies early mortality than other definitions.
Anatomy of a successful stewardship intervention: Improving perioperative prescribing in penicillin-allergic patients.

Objective To evaluate whether a series of quality improvement interventions to promote safe perioperative use of cephalosporins in penicillin-allergic patients improved use of first-line antibiotics and decreased costs. Design Before-and-after trial following several educational interventions. Setting Academic medical center. Patients This study included patients undergoing a surgical procedure involving receipt of a perioperative antibiotic other than a penicillin or carbapenem between January 1, 2017, and August 31, 2019. Patients with and without a penicillin allergy label in their electronic medical record were compared with respect to the percentage who received a cephalosporin and average antibiotic cost per patient. Methods A multidisciplinary team from infectious diseases, allergy, anesthesiology, surgery, and pharmacy surveyed anesthesiology providers about their use of perioperative cephalosporins in penicillin-allergic patients. Using findings from that survey, the team designed a decision-support algorithm for safe utilization and provided 2 educational forums to introduce this algorithm, emphasizing the safety of cefazolin or cefuroxime in penicillin-allergic patients without history of a severe delayed hypersensitivity reaction. Results The percentage of penicillin-allergic patients receiving a perioperative cephalosporin improved from ∼34% to >80% following algorithm implementation and the associated educational interventions. This increase in cephalosporin use was associated with a ∼50% reduction in antibiotic cost per penicillin-allergic patient. No significant adverse reactions were reported. Conclusions An educational antibiotic stewardship intervention produced a significant change in clinician behavior. A simple intervention can have a significant impact, although further study is needed regarding whether this response is sustained and whether an educational intervention is similarly effective in other healthcare systems.
Antibody titers before and after booster doses of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines in healthy adults

Two-dose messenger RNA vaccines (BNT162b2/Pfizer and mRNA-1273/Moderna) against SARS-CoV-2 were rolled out in the US in December 2020, and provide protection against hospitalization and death from COVID-19 for at least six months. Breakthrough infections have increased with waning immunity and the spread of the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant in summer 2021, prompting approval of boosters for all adults over 18. We measured anti-receptor binding domain (RBD) IgG and surrogate virus neutralization of the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and the human angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) receptor, before and after boosters in N=33 healthy adults. We document large antibody responses 6-10 days after booster, with antibody levels that exceed levels documented after natural infection with COVID-19, after two doses of vaccine, or after both natural infection and vaccination. Surrogate neutralization of B.1.617.2 is high but reduced in comparison with wild-type SARS-CoV-2. These data support the use of boosters to prevent breakthrough infections and suggest that antibody-mediated immunity may last longer than after the second vaccine dose.
The influence of matrix microstructure

The low-cycle and high-cycle fatigue behavior and cyclic response of naturally aged and artificially aged 2219/TiC/15p and unreinforced 2219 Al were investigated utilizing plastic strain-controlled and stress-controlled testing. The cyclic response of both the reinforced and un-reinforced materials was similar for all plastic strain amplitudes tested except that the saturation stress level for the composite was always greater than that of the unreinforced material. The cyclic response of the naturally aged materials exhibited cyclic hardening and, in some cases, cyclic softening, while the cyclic response for the artificially aged materials showed no evidence of either cyclic hardening or softening. The higher ductility of the unreinforced material made it more resistant to fatigue failure at high strains, and thus, at a given plastic strain, it had longer fatigue life. It should be noted that the tensile ductilities of the 2219/TiC/15p were significantly higher than those previously reported for 2XXX-series composites. During stress-controlled test-ing at stresses below 220 MPa, the presence of TiC particles lead to an improvement in fatigue life. Above 220 MPa, no influence of TiC reinforcement on fatigue life could be detected. In both the composite and unreinforced materials, the low-cycle and high-cycle fatigue lives were found to be virtually independent of matrix microstructure.
Efficient Parallel Implementation of a Compact Higher-Order Maxwell Solver Using Spatial Filtering

This chapter describes the parallel implementation of a Maxwell equations solver on a cluster of heterogeneous workstations. The Maxwell solver, designated ANTHEM, computes the electromagnetic scattering by two-dimensional perfectly-conducting and dielectric bodies by solving Maxwell equations in frequency domain. The governing equations are derived by writing Maxwell equations in conservation-law form for scattered field quantities and then assuming a single-frequency incident wave. A pseudo-time variable is introduced, and the entire set of equations is driven to convergence by an explicit/point-implicit four-stage Runge-Kutta time-marching finite-volume scheme. Higher-order implicit spatial filtering is used in conjunction with a higher-order compact scheme for spatial discretization, to filter undesirable oscillations. Far-field boundary conditions are computed using the method of Giles and Shu. Results are compared with known analytic solutions and the method-of-moments. The results indicate that, although compact schemes satisfy the stringent requirements of an accurate electromagnetic computation, spatial filtering is important as it provides an excellent alternative to grid refinement at a fraction of the computational cost. Parallelization on heterogeneous workstations is accomplished by using PVM software for process control and communication. Excellent parallel efficiency is obtained, although it is somewhat dependent on the domain decomposition strategy.
Atrial Tachycardia After Circumferential Pulmonary Vein Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: Mechanistic Insights, Results of Catheter Ablation, and Risk Factors for Recurrence

Atrial Tachycardia After Circumferential Pulmonary Vein Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: Mechanistic Insights, Results of Catheter Ablation, and Risk Factors for Recurrence Sanders Chae, Hakan Oral, Eric Good, Sujoya Dey, Alan Wimmer, Thomas Crawford, Darryl Wells, Jean-Francois Sarrazin, Nagib Chalfoun, Michael Kuhne, Jackie Fortino, Elizabeth Huether, Tammy Lemerand, Frank Pelosi, Frank Bogun, Fred Morady, Aman Chugh Seventy-eight patients underwent catheter ablation of atrial tachycardia (AT) late after circumferential pulmonary vein ablation for atrial fibrillation. The mechanism of nearly 90% of the 155 tachycardias was re-entry, and nearly all left atrial ATs arose from prior ablation lines, suggestive of proarrhythmia related to gaps. Catheter ablation was successful in 85% of the patients. These findings suggest that the prevalence of ATs may be reduced by limiting the number of ablation lines, demonstration of linear block, and pulmonary vein disconnection during the initial procedure for atrial fibrillation. Objectives The aim of this study was to determine the mechanism of atrial tachycardia (AT) that occurs after ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). Background Patients who undergo catheter ablation of AF may develop AT during follow-up. Methods Seventy-eight patients underwent an ablation procedure for AT after circumferential pulmonary vein ablation (CPVA) for AF. The 3-dimensional maps from the AF and AT procedures were compared to determine whether AT arose from a prior ablation line. Results A total of 155 ATs were mapped, and the mechanism was re-entry in 137 (88%) and focal in 18 (12%). The most common left atrial (LA) ablation targets were the mitral isthmus, roof, and septum. The critical isthmus in 115 of the 120 LA re-entrant ATs (96%) traversed a prior ablation line, consistent with a gap-related mechanism. Catheter ablation was successful in 66 of the 78 patients (85%). After a mean follow-up of 13 ± 10 months, 60 of the 78 patients (77%) were free of AT/AF without antiarrhythmic medications. Re-entrant septal AT was associated with recurrence (odds ratio 7.3; 95% confidence interval 1.5 to 36; p = 0.02), whereas PV isolation during the AT procedure was associated with a favorable outcome (odds ratio 0.17; 95% confidence interval 0.04 to 0.81; p = 0.03). Conclusions Approximately 90% of ATs after CPVA are re-entrant, and nearly all are related to gaps in prior ablation lines. These findings suggest that the prevalence of these arrhythmias may be reduced by limiting the number of linear lesions, demonstration of linear block, and pulmonary vein disconnection during the initial AF procedure.
Mechanisms of active control for noise inside a vibrating cylinder

The active control of propeller-induced noise fields inside a flexible cylinder is studied with attention given to the noise reduction mechanisms inherent in the present coupled acoustic shell model. The active noise control model consists of an infinitely long aluminum cylinder with a radius of 0.4 m and a thickness of 0.001 m. Pressure maps are shown when the two external sources are driven in-phase at a frequency corresponding to Omega = 0.22.
Definition and interactions of a positive regulatory element of the Arabidopsis INNER NO OUTER promoter

Present address: Department of Trait and Technology Development, Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., 7250 NW 62nd Avenue, Johnston, IA 50131, USA. Present address: Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, 10675 John Jay Hopkins Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA. INNER NO OUTER (INO) expression is limited to the abaxial cell layer of the incipient and developing outer integument in Arabidopsis ovules. Using deletion analysis of the previously defined INO promoter (P-INO), at least three distinct regions that contribute to the endogenous INO expression pattern were identified. One such positive element, designated POS9, which comprises at least three distinct subelements, was found to include sufficient information to duplicate the INO expression pattern when four or more copies were used in conjunction with a heterologous minimal promoter. While known regulators of INO, including INO, SUPERMAN, BELL1, and AINTEGUMENTA, did not detectably interact with POS9 in yeast one-hybrid assays, two groups of proteins that interact specifically with POS9 were identified in one-hybrid library screens. Members of one group include C2H2 zinc finger motifs. Members of the second group contain a novel, conserved DNA-binding region and were designated the BASIC PENTACYSTEINE (BPC) proteins on the basis of conserved features of this region. The BPC proteins are nuclear localized and specifically bind in vitro to GA dinucleotide repeats located within POS9. The widespread expression patterns of the BPCs and the large number of GA repeat potential target sequences in the Arabidopsis genome indicate that BPC proteins may affect expression of genes involved in a variety of plant processes.
Membrane-associated Sulfur Oxidation by the Autotroph Thiobacillus thiooxidans

Adair, Frank W. (Rutgers, The State University, New Brunswick, N. J.). Membrane-associated sulfur oxidation by the autotroph Thiobacillus thiooxidans . J. Bacteriol. 92: 899–904. 1966.—Washed cell wall-membrane fragments derived from sulfur-grown cells of the strictly autotrophic bacterium, Thiobacillus thiooxidans , oxidized elemental sulfur to sulfate without the addition of cofactors. The oxidation was optimal at p H 7.0 and was increased by the presence of wetting agents. Oxygen uptake was inhibited by cyanide, azide, and thiol-binding agents. Sulfite was also oxidized, and both the sulfur- and sulfite-oxidizing systems were heat-labile. Neither thiosulfate nor tetrathionate was oxidized by soluble or membrane preparations. The fragments fixed C 14 O 2 in the presence of ribose-5-phosphate, Mg ++ , and adenosine triphosphate. Sulfur oxidation did not provide energy for C 14 O 2 fixation in this system.
Studies on the mechanism of drug-induced lipidosis. Cationic amphiphilic drug inhibition of lysosomal phospholipases A and C.

Abstract Previously, chloroquine and 4,4′-bis(diethylaminoethoxy)α,β-diethyldiphenylethane, two drugs that have been reported to cause lipidosis in man, had been found to be potent inhibitors of lysosomal phospholipase in vitro [Y. Matsuzawa and K. Y. Hostetler, J. biol. Chem. 255, 5190 (1980).] Seven additional cationic amphiphilic agents were examined for their effects on degradation of phosphatidylcholine (the major phospholipid of lysosomes) by lysosomal phospholipases A and C. The drugs were amantadine, 1,7-bis( p -aminophenoxy)heptane, chlorophentermine, chlorpromazine, imipramine, propranolol and tripelennamine, agents that have widely varying pharmacologic properties but that share cationic amphiphilic structural features. All of these agents inhibited phospholipases A and C. The results strongly support the hypothesis that drug-induced lipidoses is due to direct inhibition of lysosomal phospholipid catabolism.
Novel Systemic Therapies for Small Cell Lung Cancer

A diagnosis of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) today confers essentially the same terrible prognosis that it did 25 years ago, when common use of cisplatin-based chemotherapy began for this disease. In contrast to past decades of research on many other solid tumors, studies of combination chemotherapy using later generation cytotoxics and targeted kinase inhibitors have not had a significant impact on standard care for SCLC. The past few years have seen suggestions of incrementally improved outcomes using standard cytotoxics, including cisplatin-based combination studies of irinotecan and amrubicin by Japanese research consortia. Confirmatory phase III studies of these agents are ongoing in the United States. Antiangiogenic strategies are also of primary interest and are in late-phase testing. Several novel therapeutics, including high-potency small molecule inhibitors of Bcl-2 and the Hedgehog signaling pathway, and a recently discovered replication-competent picornavirus, have shown remarkable activity against SCLC in preclinical models and are currently in simultaneous phase I clinical development. Novel therapeutic approaches based on advances in understanding of the biology of SCLC have the potential to radically change the outlook for patients with this disease.
Changes in career decisions of internal medicine residents during training.

Most internal medicine residents in the United States make career plans during the course of their 3-year training program; however, little is known about the stability of career choice decisions a...
Influence of Pill Burden and Drug Cost on Renal Function After Transplantation

Study Objective To determine the influence of pill burden and drug cost on outcomes after renal transplantation. Design Retrospective medical record review. Setting Kidney and pancreas transplantation center. Patients Sixty-eight adults who underwent kidney or kidney-pancreas transplantation during 2007. Measurements and Main Results The median pretransplantation pill burden was 15 pills/day, which increased to 25 pills/day at 1 month after transplantation and returned to 16 pills/day by 1 year after transplantation. Pretransplantation pill burden was lower than the burden at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after transplantation (p<0.05). The mean pretransplantation drug cost of $1918/month was lower than the cost at 1 month after transplantation ($2564/mo, p=0.04) but was similar thereafter. Higher pretransplantation pill burden was associated with increased serum creatinine concentration at 6 months after transplantation (r=0.288, p=0.017). Higher pill burdens at 1 month (r=0.364, p=0.002), 3 months (r=0.332, p=0.006), and 6 months (r=0.374, p=0.002) were associated with increased 3-month serum creatinine concentration. Higher drug costs were associated with increased serum creatinine concentrations throughout the study. Conclusion Higher pretransplantation pill burden and higher drug cost may be associated with poor renal function after transplantation. Further study addressing factors associated with nonadherence is needed.
Comparison of methods for determining the bias index of a dichromated gelatin hologram

Determination of the bias refractive index of a holographic emulsion before exposure and after development is an important factor in the design of holographic optical elements. Several experimental methods are discussed for determining the bias index of a volume hologram in dichromated gelatin, and the results for each technique are presented. It is shown experimentally that these measurement methods yield different results for the same hologram, and the cause of the differences is proposed to be a variation of the bias index with depth in the hologram. An index measurement technique is also presented that accounts for variation in the bias index and is shown to yield an accurate value for the bias index.
AMINO ACIDS AND HEMOGLOBIN PRODUCTION IN ANEMIA

Certain individual amino acids when given to standard anemic dogs cause an increase in new hemoglobin production. Occasional negative experiments are recorded. Glycine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid, cystine, histidine, phenylalanine, and proline when given in 1 gm. doses daily for 2 weeks, increase hemoglobin output on the average 23 to 25 gm. above the control level. This reaction amounts to 25 to 30 per cent of the new hemoglobin produced by the feeding of 300 gm. liver daily for 2 weeks-a standard liver test. Alanine, valine, isoleucine, and arginine in the same dosage increase the hemoglobin output on the average 13 to 17 gm. per 2 weeks over the control level. Leucine, methionine, lysine, tryptophane, and tyrosine fall in a middle group with hemoglobin output of about 20 gm. Isovaleric acid, beta-hydroxybutyric acid, glutaric acid, and asparagine have shown positive effects and the butyrate is unusually potent for hemoglobin production (Table 2). The isomeric and dl-synthetic forms of the amino acids are as effectively utilized in this reaction as are the natural forms.
A voltage-dependent gap junction in Drosophila melanogaster.

Steady-state and kinetic analyses of gap junctional conductance, gi, in salivary glands of Drosophila melanogaster third instar larvae reveal a strong and complex voltage dependence that can be elicited by two types of voltages. Voltages applied between the cells, i.e., transjunctional voltages, Vj, and those applied between the cytoplasm and the extracellular space, inside-outside voltages, Vi,o, markedly alter gj. Alteration of Vi-o while holding Vj = O,i.e., by equal displacement of the voltages in the cells, causes gj to increase to a maximum on hyperpolarization and to decrease to near zero on depolarization. These conductance changes associated with Vi-o are fit by a model in which there are two independent gates in series, one in each series, one in each membrane, where each gate is equally sensitive to Vi-o and exhibits first order kinetics. Vj's generated by applying voltage steps of either polarity to either cell, substantially reduce gj. These conductance changes exhibit complex kinetics that depend on Vi-o as well as Vj. At more positive Vi-o's, the changes in gj have two phases, an early phase consisting of of a decrease in gj for either polarity of Vj and a later phase consisting of an increase in gj on hyperpolarizing either cell and a decrease on depolarizing either cell. At negative Vi-o's in the plateau region of the gj-Vi-o relation, the later slow increase in gj is absent on hyperpolarizing either cell. Also, the early decrease in gj for either polarity of Vj is faster the more positive the Vi-o. The complex time course elicited by applying voltage steps to one cell can be explained as combined actions of Vi-o and Vj, with the early phase ascribable to Vj, but influenced by Vi-o, and the later phase to the changes in Vi-o associated with the generation of Vj. The substantially different kinetics and sensitivity of changes in gj by Vi-o and Vj suggests that the mechanisms of gating by these two voltages are different. Evidently, these gap-junction channels are capable of two distinct, but interactive forms of voltage dependence.
Primary Language and Receipt of Recommended Health Care Among Hispanics in the United States

Background Disparities in health care services between Hispanics and whites in the United States are well documented.
QUANTUM LIMITS ON RESONANT MASS GRAVITATIONAL RADIATION DETECTORS

The methods of quantum detection theory are applied to a resonant-mass gravitational-radiation antenna. Quantum sensitivity limits are found which depend strongly on the quantum state in which the antenna is prepared. Optimum decision strategies and their corresponding sensitivities are derived for some important initial states. The linear detection limit (${E}_{min}\ensuremath{\sim}\ensuremath{\hbar}\ensuremath{\omega}$) is shown to apply when the antenna is prepared in a coherent state. Preparation of the antenna in an excited energy eigenstate or in a state highly localized in position or momentum space leads to increased sensitivity. A set of minimum-uncertainty states for phase-sensitive detection is introduced.
On the strength of glasses

The remarkable strength of glasses is examined using the random first order transition theory of the glass transition. The theory predicts that strength depends on elastic modulus but also on the configurational energy frozen in when the glass is prepared. The stress catalysis of cooperative rearrangements of the type responsible for the supercooled liquid’s high viscosity account quantitatively for the measured strength of a range of metallic glasses, silica, and a polymer glass.
Interleukin-1 receptor role in the viability of corneal myofibroblasts.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of interleukin-1 (IL-1) in modulating myofibroblast viability in mouse corneas with stromal opacity. Twenty-four female B6; 129S1-Il1r1tm1Roml/J homozygous IL-1RI knockout mice and 24 control B6129SF2/J mice were included in this study. Each mouse had opacity-generating irregular phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) performed with an excimer laser in one eye. Groups of 8 mice from each group were euthanized at one month, three months and six months after surgery and the eyes cryo-preserved. The contralateral eye served as unwounded control. Immunohistochemistry was performed for α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) in central sections of all corneas. The TUNEL assay for apoptosis was performed on 8 sections of four eyes from each group. No SMA+ cells were detected in the stroma of unwounded control or knockout corneas. SMA+ myofibroblast density was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the IL-1RI knockout group than in the control group at one month, three and six months after irregular PTK. Mean TUNEL+ stromal cells in the anterior 50 μm of stroma was significantly lower in the IL-1RI knockout group compared to the control group at six months after irregular PTK (p = 0.04). These results corroborate the findings of recent in vitro work that demonstrated an antagonistic effect of TGFβ and IL-1 on myofibroblast viability, and found that IL-1-triggered myofibroblast apoptosis was suppressed by TGFβ. Thus, IL-1 is an important modulator of myofibroblast viability during corneal wound healing.
Efficacy and tolerability of oral lacosamide as adjunctive therapy in pediatric patients with pharmacoresistant focal epilepsy

The results of adjunctive lacosamide treatment in 18 pediatric patients with pharmacoresistant focal epilepsy are reported. All had severe forms of focal epilepsy with or without secondary generalization and were concurrently receiving one to three other antiepileptic drugs. Lacosamide was administered orally, and final dose, after slow titration, ranged between 1.7 and 10 mg/kg. Mean treatment duration was 8 months (range=3 weeks-17 months). Treatment efficacy was assessed at two time points with a 1-year interval. The reported greater than 50% reduction in seizure frequency was 36% in the initial short-term and 20% in the following long-term assessment. Side effects, mostly somnolence and irritability, were reported by 39% of patients in both evaluations. Our data suggest that lacosamide treatment in pediatric patients is safe at doses up to 10 mg/kg/day without any major side effects, but studies in larger series are needed to validate and extend these findings.
Parachute mitral valve.

A 57-yr-old woman presented to the hospital for further evaluation of recently diagnosed severe primary pulmonary hypertension. Her medical and surgical histories were significant for aortic valvuloplasty in 1961, a St. Jude aortic valve replacement in July 1998, and a subsequent reoperation for the placement of a bioprosthetic aortic valve in September 1998. A permanent pacemaker was placed in 1998 secondary to complete heart block. She experienced increasing shortness of breath, requiring home oxygen for exertion. She had no history of smoking or significant pulmonary history before this diagnosis. Ventilation/perfusion imaging and spiral computed tomography excluded pulmonary embolism. Cardiac catheterization revealed normal coronary arteries, pulmonary artery pressures of 109/42 mm Hg, and a pulmonary capillary wedge pressure of 40 mm Hg. Both transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography examinations were performed after admission to the hospital. Based on these findings, she underwent a reoperation for placement of a Carpentier-Edwards pericardial mitral valve. The following preoperative and intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography images display the patient’s pathology (Figs. 1 and 2) (video clip available at www.anesthesia-analgesia.org). The finding of a parachute mitral valve in an adult patient is extremely rare. Most patients are diagnosed in childhood with the pathologic complex known as Shone’s Anomaly, which includes a parachute mitral valve and aortic coarctation (68% of patients), atrial septal defect (54% of patients), ventricular septal defect (46% of patients), aortic valve stenosis (32% of patients), subaortic stenosis (20% of patients), and left ventricular hypoplasia
Sequential composition of robust controller specifications

We present a general notion of robust controller specification and a mechanism for sequentially composing them. These specifications form tubular abstractions of the trajectories of a system in different control modes, and are motivated by the techniques available for certifying the performance of low-level controllers. The notion of controller specification provides a rigorous interface for connecting a planner and lower-level controllers that are designed independently. With this approach, the planning layer does not integrate the closed-loop system dynamics and does not require the knowledge of how the controllers operate, but relies only on the specifications of the output tracking performance achieved by these controllers. The control layer aims at satisfying specifications that account quantitatively for robustness to unmodeled dynamics and various sources of disturbance and sensor noise, so that this robustness does not need to be revalidated at the planning level. As an illustrative example, we describe a randomized planner that composes different controller specifications from a given database to guarantee that any corresponding sequence of control modes steers a robot to a given region while avoiding obstacles.
The role of PKCα and RLIP76 in transport-mediated doxorubicin-resistance in lung cancer

In deletion mutant analyses of potential phosphorylation sites in RLIP76, we identified T297 and S509 as targets for phosphorylation by PKCα. Phosphorylation at T297 increased doxorubicin (DOX)-transport activity ∼2-fold for RLIP76 purified from recombinant source, or from three small (H69, H1417, H1618) and three non-small cell, one each derived from H226 (squamous), H358 (bronchio alveolar), and H1395 (adenocarcinoma) lung cancer cell lines. T297 phosphorylation conferred sensitivity to tryptic digestion at R293. The specific activity for DOX-transport by RLIP76 purified from non-small cell, which was primarily in the phosphorylated form, was approximately twice that in small cell lung cancer cell lines. These finding offer a novel explanation for the observed intrinsic differences in sensitivity to DOX between non-small cell and small cell lung cancer cell lines.
Photophysical and charge transfer studies of some model anthracene-backboned polyesters

Abstract The preparation and characterization of several finely tailored anthracene-backboned polyesters are discussed. The anthracene fluorescence lifetimes (τ), fluorescence quenching kinetics ( k q ) and charge transfer equilibria ( K ct ) of the polymer-bound anthracene moieties (determined in chloroform) are also reported. Charge transfer complexation between the anthracene moiety and tetrachloro-1,4-benzoquinone (chloranil) is also investigated. In order to determine the extent of donor-acceptor equilibria, K ct are determined from Benesi-Hildebrand plots. These results are correlated to the overall effects of the aliphatic bridging group, which appear to influence the micropolarity and vibrational and rotational properties of the anthracene moiety.
Divergent-Trailing-Edge Airfoil Flow

The influence of recirculating flow on drag reduction associated with a divergent-trai ling-edge (DTE) airfoil is provided by comparing the flow structure around a supercritical airfoil with a blunt trailing edge to that around the same airfoil after DTE modification. Flow characteristics are obtained by solution of compressible, Reynolds-averaged, Navier-Stokes equations with a linearized block implicit solution procedure and mixing-length turbulence model. Results show that DTE modification effects an increase in the streamwise length of the recirculation region downstream of a blunt trailing edge that acts like a chordwise extension to increase circulation. The divergent trailing edge gives the same lift at lower incidence and drag, so that lift-to-drag ratio is increased in transonic cruise. Drag creep is reduced by DTE modification because shock-induced drag is decreased as a result of a longer recirculation region in the wake and its associated relocation and weakening of the shock, which is greater than the increase in base drag.
Fatty Acid Composition of Goat Organ and Muscle Meat of Alpine and Nubian Breeds

Fatty acid compositions of liver, heart, kidney, Longissimus dorsi (LD) and Biceps femoris (BF) of two goat breeds were evaluated using capillary gas chromatography (GC). Lauric (C12:0) acid was absent from the liver and kidney. All organ samples had significantly (P < 0.01) greater polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) than the LD and BF muscles. The organs also contained significantly (P < 0.01) higher saturated fatty acids (SFA) than the skeletal muscles, whereas the opposite trend occurred for the C18:1 contents. Levels of 14:0, 16:0, and 18:2 acids were related to breed, while those of 14:0, 18:0, 18:1, 18:2, and 20:4 acids were related to tissues. Goat muscle had higher PUFA:SFA ratio than those reported for beef, which may be important in human nutrition.
Reservoir Morphologies for Gulf Coast Turbidite Sandstones, Texas: ABSTRACT

Turbidite sandstones form gas reservoirs in the deeper Tertiary section of the Gulf Coast province of Texas. Turbidite reservoirs are of three types: (1) thin-bedded sandstones of middle-shelf origin, (2) constructional-channel-fill sandstones, and (3) stacked-channel turbidites. Production in all these reservoirs is associated with structures, but it appears that stratigraphic control exerts a fundamental influence on the accumulation of gas. Oligocene Frio sandstones at Nine Mile Point field are turbidites which formed in water depths of about 300 ft (100 m). The thin-bedded sandstones are interbedded with bioturbated shales. Sandstones are largely channel turbidites of the "AE" and "ABE" types, but more complete sequences are also present. Bed associations resemble those of submarine fans, but Frio turbidites are concentrated on the downthrown sides of major normal faults, and adjacent anticlinal crests are nearly barren of porous sand. The sandstones are clayey, and maximum permeabilities are in the range of 10 to 50 md. Eocene lower Wilcox sandstones at Northeast Thompsonville field are massive turbidites of channel End_Page 418------------------------------ origin. Bed sets are of the "AE" and "ABE" types. The channel-fill sandstones appear to have been deposited in constructional channels, narrowly bordered by more thinly bedded levee deposits. Multiple-channel sandstones cross anticlinal structure at Northeast Thompsonville field, but in others areas the occurrence of oil and gas is not related to structural closure. The sandstones are highly quartzose, and maximum permeabilities are in the range of 100 to 200 md. Oligocene Vicksburg sandstones at McAllen Ranch field form a thick series of channel turbidites of the "AE" and "ABE" types with interbedded, more complete, turbidite sequences. These stacked-channel sandstones probably represent inner-fan deposits. Associated anticlinal structures are probably the result of differential compaction over thick concentrations of channel turbidites. The sandstones are clayey, and maximum permeabilities are in the range of 10 to 50 md. The relatively abundant turbidites in these deep sections indicate that sand transport in a dip direction was a common mechanism that operated through much of the Tertiary. Although many of these sandstones have low permeabilities, they have the potential to form important, stratigraphic accumulations of natural gas through most of the deep, basinal section. End_of_Article - Last_Page 419------------
A pyrolysis process for tar sands

A thermal processing system for tar sands is developed and analyzed. Based on the Utah tar sands studied, the process is found to be operable using combustion of coke and unconverted bitumen as the energy source. It is estimated that about 80% of the spent sand is required to be recycled to the pyrolyzer to provide this energy source. The volumes for the pyrolyzer and kiln are calculated for appropriate descriptions of tar sand characteristics, and the kiln volume is found to be particularly sensitive to the choices of temperature, air supply, and particle size. On a mis au point et analyse un procede de traitement thermique pour les sables bitumineux. On a trouve le procede, etabli a partir des sables bitumineux de l'Utah, peut fonctionner par combustion de coke et bitumes non convertis comme source d'energie. Il a ete estime qu'environ 80% du sable passe necessite un recyclage au pyrolyseur pour fournir cette source d'energie. Les volumes pour le pyrolyseur et le four de regeneration sont calcules pour des descriptions adequates des caracteristiques des sables bitumineux, et le volume du four se montre particulierement sensible au choix de la temperature, de l'approvisionnement en air et de la taille des particules.
Inverse planes with a given collection of common blocks

Abstract It is well known that it is possible to construct (q 2 −q 2 (miquelian) inversive planes of order q on the same set of points which pairwise intersect in precisely the circles through infinity. Here we give an explicit description of such a family by “projecting” certain Buekenhout-Metz unitals in a well-defined manner. If q ⩾8 is an odd power of 2, it is shown that an additional q 2 − q (Suzuki-Tits) inverse planes may be added to the family without disturbing the above intersection property. The maximality of the resulting families is then discussed.
Sulfate metabolites of 4-monochlorobiphenyl in whole poplar plants.

4-Monochlorobiphenyl (PCB3) has been proven to be transformed into hydroxylated metabolites of PCB3 (OH-PCB3s) in whole poplar plants in our previous work. However, hydroxylated metabolites of PCBs, including OH-PCB3s, as the substrates of sulfotransferases have not been studied in many organisms including plants in vivo. Poplar (Populus deltoides × nigra, DN34) was used to investigate the further metabolism from OH-PCB3s to PCB3 sulfates because it is a model plant and one that is frequently utilized in phytoremediation. Results showed poplar plants could metabolize PCB3 into PCB3 sulfates during 25 day exposures. Three sulfate metabolites, including 2′-PCB3 sulfate, 3′-PCB3 sulfate, and 4′-PCB3 sulfate, were identified in poplar roots and their concentrations increased in the roots from day 10 to day 25. The major products were 2′-PCB3 sulfate and 4′-PCB3 sulfate. However, the concentrations of PCB3 sulfates were much lower than those of OH-PCB3s in the roots, suggesting the sequential transformation of...
Pax-8–PPAR-γ fusion protein in thyroid carcinoma

Approximately one-third of follicular thyroid carcinomas contain PAX8–PPARG gene fusions, which result in the production of an oncogenic Pax 8–PPAR-γ fusion protein (PPFP). Here, Raman and Koenig describe the structure and function of PAX8 and PPARG and their protein products. They discuss possible mechanisms underlying the oncogenic action of PPFP and highlight the potential of PPFP as a diagnostic marker in thyroid nodule evaluation and as a therapeutic target.
Rousseau on Sex-Roles, Education and Happiness

Over the last decade, philosophers of education have begun taking a renewed interest in Rousseau’s educational thought. This is a welcome development as his ideas are rich with educational insights. His philosophy is not without its flaws, however. One significant flaw is his educational project for females, which is sexist in the highest degree. Rousseau argues that females should be taught to “please men…and make [men’s] lives agreeable and sweet.” The question becomes how could Rousseau make such strident claims, especially in light of his far more insightful ideas concerning the education of males. This paper attempts to make sense of Rousseau’s ideas on the education of females. While I maintain that Rousseau’s project for Sophie ought to be rejected, I argue that we should try to understand how this otherwise insightful thinker could make such surprising claims. Is it a bizarre inconsistency in his philosophical reasoning or an expression of his unabashed misogyny, as so many have claimed? I argue that it is neither. Rather, it is a product of his conception of human happiness and his belief in the irreducible role human sexual relations has in achieving and prolonging that happiness. For Rousseau, sex, love and happiness are inextricably connected, and he believes that men and women will be happiest when they inhabit certain sex roles—not because sex roles are valuable in themselves, but because only through them can either men or women hope to be happy.
Nonexistence of the Efimov effect in two dimensions

Using the method first employed by Efimov for three bosons in three dimensions, we have found that the pathological condition discovered by him does not occur in two dimensions.