cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Automated classification of underwater multispectral imagery for coral reef monitoring

Survey protocols for monitoring the composition and status of coral reef benthic communities vary in the level of detail acquired, but fundamentally follow one of two approaches: 1) a diver identifies organisms in the field, 2) an analyst identifies organisms from underwater imagery (photos or video). Both methods are highly labor intensive and require a trained biologist/geologist. A method for automated classification of reef benthos would improve coral reef monitoring by reducing the cost of data analysis. Spectral classification of standard (three-band) color underwater imagery does not work well for distinguishing major bottom types. Recent publications of hyperspectral reflectance of corals, algae, and sediment, on the other hand, suggest that careful choice of narrow (-10 nm) spectral bands might improve classification accuracy relative to the three wide bands available on commercial cameras. We built an underwater multispectral camera to test whether narrow spectral bands were actually superior to standard RGB cameras for automated classification of underwater images. A filter wheel was used to acquire imagery in six 10 nm spectral bands, which were chosen from suggestions in the literature. Results indicate that the algorithms suggested in the literature require very careful compensation for variable illumination and water column attenuation for even marginal success in classifying underwater imagery. On the other hand, a new algorithm, based on the normalized difference ratio of images at 568 nm and 546 nm can reliably segment photosynthetic organisms (corals and algae) from non-photosynthetic background. Moreover, when this new algorithm is combined with very simple texture segmentation, the general cover classes of coral and algae can be discriminated from the image background with accuracies on the order of 80%. These results suggest that a combination of high spectral resolution and texture-based image segmentation may be an optimal methodology for automated classification of underwater coral reef imagery.
Non-Dietary Sources of Variation in Milk Urea Nitrogen in Ohio Dairy Herds

Protein is an expensive component of dairy cow diet and excessive protein feeding has been associated with decreased fertility. Urea is the end product of protein metabolism in dairy cattle. Milk urea nitrogen (MUN) can be used to monitor the protein feeding efficiency and protein-energy ratio in dairy cow rations. The purpose of this study was to describe the non-dietary sources of variation in and the factors associated with MUN levels in Ohio dairy herds. The data came from 24 herds belonging to Ohio Dairy Herd Improvement Association. Half of the herds (12) were classified as low producing herds (rolling herd average (RHA) milk production 10,433 kg). MUN concentration was measured spectrophotometrically from monthly test day milk samples by an automated procedure with a Skalar Segmented Flow Analyzer. We had observations from 12,939 test days, from 1681 cows. The data were analyzed using multilevel modelling technique in MLwiN ® , separately for both production groups. Different levels of organization were herd, cow, and test day. Initially, a simple random intercept model containing only a constant was run. Explanatory variables previously identified being associated with MUN were added to the model as fixed effects and model was reduced until all variables were significant at ?=0.05 level. The average MUN level from the simple intercept-only model was 14.1 mg/dl and 11.0 mg/dl in the high and low producing herds, respectively. The overall variation in MUN's was greater in low producing herds than in high producing herds. Also, the variance structure was quite different between these two groups. In low producing herds, 67.2% of the variation in MUN's was at the test day level, only 0.5% at cow level and 32.3% at herd level. In the high producing herds, however, highest proportion of variance (49.0%) was found at the herd level and 38.9% of the variation was at the test day level. Between-cow variability accounted for 12.1% of the variance in MUN's. With the independent variables in the model, variation was reduced in low production group (by 16%), but practically no change in magnitude took place in the high production group. The results also indicated that measurements taken during the first month of lactation were significantly lower than ones taken later in the lactation. Also, the season of the test day was associated with MUN levels (summer or spring with highest levels). Cow's test day milk yield and fat-protein ratio in milk in high producing herds were also positively associated with MUN levels. In low producing herds, milk fat percentage was negatively associated with MUN levels. The observed differences in the proportions of variance at the different levels between the production groups may be explained by management factors. Lower variability in MUN between test days in high producing herds probably indicates more consistent day-to-day feeding and management within a herd in this group.
Galanin-immunoreactive nerves in the female rat paracervical ganglion and uterine cervix: distribution and reaction to capsaicin.

The presence and distribution of galanin-immunoreactivity was examined in the uterine cervix and paracervical autonomic ganglia of the female rat. Some animals were treated with capsaicin to determine if galanin-immunoreactivity was present in small-diameter primary afferent nerves. Other animals were treated with the noradrenergic neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine to ascertain if galanin-immunoreactivity was present in sympathetic noradrenergic nerves. Galanin-immunoreactive nerve fibers were sparse in the cervical myometrium and vasculature, but numerous in the paracervical ganglion where they appeared to innervate principal neurons. Immunoreactivity was also present in dorsal root ganglia, dorsal horn of spinal cord, and inferior mesenteric ganglia. Capsaicin treatment resulted in a marked reduction of galanin-immunoreactivity in the spinal cord dorsal horn, but not in the dorsal root ganglia, paracervical ganglia, or cervix (although there was a substantial reduction of substance P-, neurokinin A-, and calcitonin gene-related peptide-immunoreactivity in the dorsal horn, dorsal root ganglia, and uterine cervix). 6-Hydroxydopamine treatment did not cause any appreciable change in the galanin-immunoreactivity in any tissues. We conclude that galanin-like immunoreactivity is expressed in nerve fibers innervating the paracervical ganglia and uterine cervix of the female rat. This immunoreactivity is probably present in afferent nerves and could play a role in neuroendocrine reflexes and in reproductive function.
Support for Extreme Right-Wing Parties in Western Europe: Individual Attributes, Political Attitudes, and National Context

We explain support for extreme right parties (ERPs) in Western Europe through the analysis of individual-level characteristics and national-level contextual variables. Using Eurobarometer Surveys for 1988, 1994, 1997, and 2000 and standard aggregate indicators, we employ appropriate regression models to analyze the probability of voting for an ERP over time and across the seven EU countries with significant ERPs as well as the EU 15. Confirming studies using different or less comprehensive data sets, we find that the bulk of support for ERPs comes from young, less-educated males who harbor anti-immigrant attitudes and are dissatisfied with the political system. However, our findings diverge from previous literature in several instances. We find that individual attitudes, specifically anti-immigrant sentiment and political disaffection, are better predictors of intentions of voting for ERPs than are more traditional socioeconomic characteristics such as manual occupational status, personal unemployment, or national unemployment levels.
Carnivore alteration of human bone from a late prehistoric site in Illinois.

The nature and pattern of destruction of human bone by scavenging animals, probably canids, is described for 30 Oneota skeletons from a west-central Illinois cemetery dated at ca. A.D. 1300. The most frequently damaged parts of the skeleton include bones covered by relatively little soft tissue, such as the major joints of the limbs, and those in the facial, abdominal, and gluteal regions.
Surveillance Low-Dose Chest Computed Tomography for Head and Neck Cancer Patients

Based on the recent results of the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network now recommends annual screening with low-dose computed tomography for high-risk individuals (generally defined as 45- to 60-year-old current or former smokers). As head and neck cancer patients are at a high risk for (second) lung cancers, annual surveillance computed tomography should be considered for head and neck cancer patients.
Research involving children: ethical concerns and dilemmas.

Abstract There are three fundamental controversies inherent in research involving children. is any research on children justifiable? Under what circumstances can parents give permission for a child to participate in research? What rights do children have to assent to or dissent from participating in research? Recent legislation established legal answers but ethical answers remain more elusive. Researchers and care givers must choose either justice for one child or for children of the future or choose between the autonomous rights of the parents and those of the child. Ultimately there are no absolute or generic answers, only broad guidelines for case-by-case analysis.
Clinical Strategies for Breast Cancer Screening: Weighing and Using the Evidence

When balancing the benefits of screening women for breast cancer against the harms and costs of such screening, one needs to consider the risk for dying of breast cancer, the relative reduction in ...
Padé approximants and bounds on the Bethe-Salpeter amplitude☆

Abstract Non-relativistic scattering theory methods are generalized to apply to the Bethe-Salpeter equation as treated by Schwartz and Zemach. Lower bounds to the phase shifts are given and the convergence of the sequence of [ N , N ] Pade approximants is proved. The [1,1] Pade approximant provides a reasonable approximation for a range of values of the coupling constant.
Oxyconformers and oxyregulators: A quantitative index

Abstract Five empirical regression models for analysis of data on rate of oxygen uptake against oxygen level are compared. The quadratic polynomial model is the best in terms of providing a good statistical fit, in ease of computation and in providing model parameters of value when comparing and grouping species. Since the intercept parameter ( B 0 ) characterizes only the position of the curve and since there was a strong negative correlation between the linear ( B 1 ) and quadratic ( B 2 ) parameters, the quadratic coefficient ( B 2 ) alone is an informative index of the shape of the curve. B 2 not significantly different from zero implies oxyconformity, while B 2 significantly less than zero implies an appreciable degree of regulation.
Binding of [3H]-p-aminoclonidine to α2adrenoceptor states plus a non-adrenergic site on human platelet plasma membranes

Abstract Characterization of the binding of [ 3 H] p -aminoclonidine ([ 3 h]PAC) to purified plasma membranes from human platelets has revealed multiple binding sites. [ 3 h]PAC identified site-1 in the picomolar affinity range (site-1 K D estimates ranged from 13 to 94 pM). Site-1 displayed a rank order of competition by various compounds for [ 3 H]PAC, indicative of an α 2 -adrenoceptor, and was sensitive to 0.1 mM GTP. [ 3 H]PAC also identified a second site with nanomolar affinity (site-2 K D estimates ranged from 0.7 to 1.7nM). In the presence of 0.1 mM GTP, site-2 was not diminished significantly. Also in contrast to site-1, site-2 displayed low affinity for yohimbine (YOH), (−)-epinephrine and (−)-norepinephrine (NE). Therefore, site-2 could not be an active α 2 -adrenoceptor; instead it had properties similar to a previously reported imidazoline-preferring binding site. A third site (site-3) bound [ 3 h]PAC with a K D for site-3 of 26.6 ± 10.0 nM (SD). Site-3 had a rank order of competition by various compounds for 5nM [ 3 H]yohimbine ([ 3 H]YOH) binding which was indicative of an α 2 -adrenoceptor. (−)-NE competed for 5 nM [ 3 H]YOH binding at two sites: site-1 K i = 32 pM, site-3 K i = 239 nM. Treatment with 0.1 mM GTP completely removed site-1 and transferred the competitive binding of (−)-NE to low affinity ( K i = 437 nM). Thus, site-3 appears to be a free α 2 -adrenoceptor. B max estimates for untreated membranes, derived from simultaneous multi-experiment curve-fitting analyses, were site-1 = 36 ± 29 fmol/mg plasma membrane protein, site-2 = 95 ± 34 fmol/mg and site-3 = 154 ± 35 fmol/mg. We are the first to report a site for [ 3 H]PAC binding on platelets (site-2) with properties uncharacteristic of an adrenoceptor. This observation appears to be due to our use of purified plasma membrane and low ionic strength buffer. These studies relate to reports of increased binding of [ 3 H]PAC to platelets from depressed patients.
Does androgen suppression plus radiation therapy lead to changes in penile length in prostate cancer patients

Does androgen suppression plus radiation therapy lead to changes in penile length in prostate cancer patients?
Hub and Spoke BGP: Leveraging multicast to improve wireless inter-domain routing

Satellite payloads and wireless cell/broadband towers are being designed and deployed to simultaneously provide backbone network connectivity for hundreds to thousands of end-user networks. Hence, large wireless “hub and spoke” networks are created. In order to allow user-networks to utilize their own IP address space, hub nodes must distribute user routes throughout the hub and spoke network utilizing a common network routing protocol such as Border Gateway Protocol (BGP). RFC 4271 compliant BGP, also known as BGPv4, is not optimized to take advantage of the multicast capabilities of a wireless channel. In this paper we show that given a wireless hub and spoke network running BGP with N spokes, system wide bandwidth savings from O(N2) to O(N) can be gained through multicasting the BGP routing messages. We will first present an analytical model with equations that explain our hypothesis, and then introduce a multicast version of BGP called Hub and Spoke BGP. We present a comparison study of large scale hub and spoke emulations utilizing both standard BGP and our multicast-capable version, validating the bandwidth savings.1 2
Factors affecting the protective action of glycerol on Trichomonas foetus at freezing temperatures.

Abstract Glycerol protects Trichomonas foetus from death when the protozoa are frozen slowly to −21 °C or below in CPLM culture medium. However, the protozoa die slowly during storage at these temperatures. In order to determine whether this deterioration was due to continued slow metabolism, concentrations of malonic acid, sodium fluoride and sodium iodoacetate too low to affect the protozoa at 37 °C were added to the medium before freezing in the presence of 1 M glycerol. When the temperature was reduced to −21 °C, their concentrations in the remaining liquid phase were increased enough to decrease the survival rate of the protozoa upon storage. This suggests that slow metabolism continued at that temperature. Addition of 0.5% vegetable lecithin to the medium in the hope of decreasing the brittleness of the cell membrane did not increase the survival rate of the protozoa upon freezing to −21 °C in the presence of 1 M glycerol. It did, however, protect the protozoa against the deleterious effects of the glycerol at 37 °C. However, the protozoa were killed in cultures containing 0.5% egg lecithin or 0.1 % animal lecithin. Increasing the sodium chloride concentration of the medium decreased the survival rate of the protozoa upon freezing to — 21 °C. in the presence of glycerol. Increasing the glycerol concentration up to a maximum of 1.5 M increased the survival rate of the protozoa, but above this level the glycerol was toxic. The reciprocal relationship between sodium chloride and glycerol concentrations confirms the “salt buffering” theory of glycerol's mode of action in protecting cells against freezing injury.
Sphagnum Moss Disperses Spores with Vortex Rings

Sphagnum spores, which have low terminal velocities, are carried by turbulent wind currents to establish colonies many kilometers away. However, spores that are easily kept aloft are also rapidly decelerated in still air; thus, dispersal range depends strongly on release height. Vascular plants grow tall to lift spores into sufficient wind currents for dispersal, but nonvascular plants such as Sphagnum cannot grow sufficiently high. High-speed videos show that exploding capsules of Sphagnum generate vortex rings to efficiently carry spores high enough to be dispersed by turbulent air currents. Spores launched ballistically at similar speeds through still air would travel a few millimeters and not easily reach turbulent air. Vortex rings are used by animals; here, we report vortex rings generated by plants.
Theory of W Production in Nucleon-Nucleon Collisions

The cross section for $N+N\ensuremath{\rightarrow}W+N+N$ is calculated in a double peripheral model. The effects of the principle corrections such as absorption, resonant final-state interactions, and the $\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{\pi}W$ form factor are considered. $\ensuremath{\mu}$ pair production, which is intrinsically related to $W$ production through the conserved vector current, is examined as a means of testing our model and also as a source of background.
Surgical management of large bilateral indirect sliding inguinal hernias.

Summary An unusual case of large bilateral indirect sliding inguinal hernias is presented. A simple method for disposition of the hernial sac is described. It includes excision of the cremaster muscle, complete separation of the sac and its contents from the spermatic cord, opening the sac in its superior portion, incision of the peritoneum medially and laterally to the sliding viscus, and approximation of the medial and lateral peritoneal leaves. The peritoneal ring is closed with a purse-string suture of heavy silk after the contained viscus has been replaced into the peritoneal cavity. High ligation of the sac after replacement of the viscus into the peritoneal cavity is a matter of importance if repair of the hernia is to be secure. The transversalis fascia is closed snugly about the cord at the internal ring. Identification of the transversalis fascia and firm closure of this structure give the repair its strength. Fundamentally, a sliding hernia is an acquired indirect inguinal hernia, and its repair can be simply accomplished. After the transversalis fascia has been closed almost any method that suits the surgeon's fancy may be used to complete closure of the floor of Hesselbach's triangle.
Dysregulation of CLOCK gene expression in hyperoxia-induced lung injury

Hyperoxic acute lung injury (HALI) is characterized by inflammation and epithelial cell death. CLOCK genes are master regulators of circadian rhythm also implicated in inflammation and lung diseases. However, the relationship of CLOCK genes in hyperoxia-induced lung injury has not been studied. This study will determine if HALI alters CLOCK gene expression. To test this, wild-type and NALP3−/− mice were exposed to room air or hyperoxia for 24, 48, or 72 h. In addition, mice were exposed to different concentrations of hyperoxia (50, 75, or 100% O2) or room air for 72 h. The mRNA and protein levels of lung CLOCK genes, based on quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively, and their target genes are significantly elevated in mice exposed to hyperoxia compared with controls. Alterations in CLOCK genes are associated with increased inflammatory markers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of hyperoxic mice compared with controls. Histological examination of mice lungs exposed to hyperoxia show increased inflammation and alveolar congestion compared with controls. Our results indicate sequential increase in CLOCK gene expression in lungs of mice exposed to hyperoxia compared with controls. Additionally, data suggest a dose-dependent increase in CLOCK gene expression with increased oxygen concentrations. To validate if the expression changes related to CLOCK genes are indeed associated with inflammation, NALP3−/− was introduced to analyze loss of function in inflammation. Western blot analysis showed significant CLOCK gene downregulation in NALP3−/− mice compared with wild-type controls. Together, our results demonstrate that hyperoxia-mediated lung inflammation is associated with alterations in CLOCK gene expression.
Planck-Benzinger thermal work function: Monoclonal antibody-DNA duplex binding interactions

We have reexamined the van't Hoff plots and delineation of thermodynamic data of the monoclonal antibodies of Jel 274 and Jel 241 binding to DNA duplex at high ionic strength using fluorescein-labeled oligonucleotide titration with increasing concentrations of the antibody as reported by Tanha and Lee (Nucleic Acid Res, 1997, 25, 1442). To compare the thermodynamic parameters from data over the experimental temperature range of 277–312.5 K, the binding constant from van't Hoff plots is used to evaluate ΔGo(T) from 0 to 400 K using our general linear T3 model, ΔGo(T) = α +βT2+γT3. The limited information provided by the van't Hoff plots and their extensions is not sufficient to describe the variations in the Gibbs free energy change as a function of temperature and other thermodynamic functions observed in these and other biological interactions. Rather, it is necessary to determine a number of thermodynamic parameters, including the heat of reaction, (Th), (Tm), and (TCp), and the thermal set point, (TS), all of which can be precisely assessed using our general linear T3 model. To date, no experimental measurement offers this degree of accuracy. In evaluating the thermodynamic parameters in the binding interaction of monoclonal IgG Jel 241–d[AT]20DNA duplex, it is apparent that at a high NaCl concentration, the range of the compensatory temperatures, (Th) = 155 K and (Tm) = 450 K, is much broader than observed in any other sample, whereas the thermal set points, (TS) = 330 K, is 20–30 K higher. The inherent chemical bond energy ΔHo(T0) is much lower in this sample. The values of thermal agitation energy (heat capacity integrals) are of similar magnitude for all the samples tested. It appears that increasing the NaCl concentration to 130 mM will greatly enhance the binding interaction between the monoclonal antibody and DNA duplex. It is not clear, however, from the limited data available, whether the binding interaction is sequence specific, although logic would suggest it is. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Calorimetry studies of chlorpromazine hydrochloride in solution

The self-association of the tranquilizer chlorpromazine hydrochloride in aqueous solution was studied. Using isothermal titration calorimetry, the critical micelle concentration and solvent−micelle interactions were evaluated as a function of temperature, ionic strength, and pH. The enthalpy of demicellization, ΔHdemic, was directly measured from the experimental enthalpy values, which showed that the spontaneous demicellization of chlorpromazine hydrochloride is a highly endothermic process under all experimental conditions studied. The thermodynamic parameters were subsequently calculated from the temperature dependent thermograms. At 25 °C, the critical micelle concentration was determined to be 3.2 mM at pH 6.5 with a ΔHdemic of 12.5 kJ/mol, a ΔGdemic of 24.3 kJ/mol, and a TΔSdemic of −10.1 kJ/mol. Our results suggest that the enthalpy−entropy compensation theory may be applied to these micelles. In addition, using differential scanning calorimetry, a broad endothermic demicellization peak was observe...
Density and hydration of fresh and fixed human skeletal muscle

The maximum tetanic tension of skeletal muscle (P(0)) is often estimated based on calculation of physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA). PCSA depends on muscle volume, pennation angle, and fiber length. Studies documenting PCSA in fixed human muscles usually compute muscle volume by dividing muscle mass by density. These studies use a density value of 1.0597 g/cm(3), which was originally based on unfixed rabbit and canine muscle tissue. Due to the dehydration effects of different fixation methods, the variable hydration that occurs when fixed tissue is stored in buffered saline, and the potential for species-specific muscle density, this value may be incorrect and an accurate value for fixed human muscle density is needed. To obtain an accurate density and water content values, 4% formaldehyde-fixed (n=54) and 37% formaldehyde-fixed (n=54) cadaveric human muscle samples were divided into 6 groups (0, 6, 12, 18, 24, or 30 h) for hydration in phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Measurements of volume, water content, and mass were made enabling calculation of muscle density. Additionally, water content was measured in living muscle (n=4) to determine the appropriate hydration time in PBS. Comparisons among groups demonstrated a significant increase in muscle water content and muscle volume over time, reaching living tissue levels after 24h, but, interestingly, the hydration process did not affect muscle density. These data yield a density value (mean+/-SE) of 1.112+/-0.006 g/cm(3) in 4% formaldehyde-fixed muscle and 1.055+/-0.006 g/cm(3) in 37% formaldehyde-fixed muscle. These results indicate that the use of inappropriate hydration times or density values can produce PCSA errors of 5-10%.
Diagnostic and Guide Catheter Selection and Manipulation for Radial Approach

Transradial catheterization and percutaneous coronary interventions have multiple advantages, including reduced bleeding risk, reduced length of stay and costs, and increased patient comfort. Transradial catheterization and interventions requires the acquisition of various additional skill sets including radial arterial puncture, the ability to navigate the upper extremity vasculature, and understanding catheter selection and coronary engagement technique. Although standard femoral catheter shapes perform adequately from the left or right radial approach for coronary angiography, for percutaneous coronary intervention guide catheter support is critical. This article summarizes some practical learning points pertaining to navigating the upper extremity vasculature, and understanding catheter selection and coronary engagement technique.
Previously reported nerve growth factor levels are underestimated due to an incomplete release from receptors and interaction with standard curve media.

The 1996 research report by Hoener et al. [M.C. Hoener, E. Hewitt, J. M. Conner, J.W. Costello, S. Varon, Nerve growth factor (NGF) content in adult rat brain tissue is several-fold higher than generally reported and is largely associated with sedimentable fractions, Brain Res. 728 (1996) 47-56.] compares levels of nerve growth factor (NGF) found in rat brain by assaying both supernatant and pellet to previously reported data. However, Hoener et al. miscalculated when converting values previously reported in the literature to units of picogram per milliliter. Regardless of this mistake, the method of tissue extraction does affect the extent of release of NGF, which must be maximized in order to accurately determine NGF levels in the central nervous system. We now report that accurate measurement of NGF levels is not only affected by the incomplete release of NGF from receptors, but also the medium in which the standard curve is run. It is the combination of these two variables that has led to the underestimation of NGF levels in previous research.
Spatio-temporal modeling for real-time ozone forecasting

Abstract Accurate assessment of exposure to ambient ozone concentrations is important for informing the public and pollution monitoring agencies about ozone levels that may lead to adverse health effects. A practical challenge facing the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) is to provide real-time forecasting of current 8 h average ozone exposure over the entire conterminous United States. Such real-time forecasting is now provided as spatial forecast maps of current 8 h average ozone defined as the average of the previous four hours, current hour, and predictions for the next three hours. Current patterns are updated hourly throughout the day on the EPA-AIRNow web site. Our contribution is to show how we can substantially improve upon current real-time forecasting systems. We introduce a downscaler fusion model based on first differences of real-time monitoring data and numerical model output. The model has a flexible coefficient structure with an efficient computational strategy to fit model parameters. This strategy can be viewed as hybrid in that it blends offline model fitting with online predictions followed by fast spatial interpolation to produce the desired real-time forecast maps. Model validation for the eastern US shows consequential improvement of our fully inferential approach compared with the existing implementations.
Unanimity waits in the wings

Embryological development of intricate biological pattern is a multistep process. Beginning with initial asymmetries in the egg, each step incrementally adds detail to a molecular code of positional information — a code that directs the development of structures in their appropriate places. Hedgehog is a signalling molecule that acts at several steps in this process, and two new papers — one in Cell1 and one on page 208 of this issue2 — tell us a great deal about this protein's activity in Drosophila. Not only does the work reveal remarkable parallels with the action of Hedgehog homologues in vertebrates3–5, but it also points to a link that would unify two schools of thought, each emphasizing different views of the code of positional information.
Subtropical iceberg scours and meltwater routing in the deglacial western North Atlantic

During the last deglaciation, Northern Hemisphere ice sheets discharged ice and meltwater. Seafloor scours and numerical modelling suggest that freshwater and icebergs from the Laurentide ice sheet reached the subtropical North Atlantic.
Unitarity check in gravitational Higgs mechanism

The effective field theory of massive gravity has long been formulated in a generally covariant way [N. Arkani-Hamed, H. Georgi, and M. D. Schwartz, Ann. Phys. (N.Y.) 305, 96 (2003).]. Using this formalism, it has been found recently that there exists a class of massive nonlinear theories that are free of the Boulware-Deser ghosts, at least in the decoupling limit [C. de Rham and G. Gabadadze, Phys. Rev. D 82, 044020 (2010).]. In this work we study other recently proposed models that go under the name of ``gravitational Higgs theories'' [A. H. Chamseddine and V. Mukhanov, J. High Energy Phys. 08 (2010) 011.]. We show that these models, although seemingly different from the effective field theories of massive gravity, are in fact equivalent to them. Furthermore, based on the results obtained in the effective field theory approach, we conclude that the gravitational Higgs theories need the same adjustment of the Lagrangian to avoid the ghosts. We also show the equivalence between the noncovariant mode decomposition used in the Higgs theories, and the covariant St\"uckelberg parametrization adopted in the effective field theories, thus proving that the presence or absence of the ghost is independent of the parametrization used in either theory.
Natural history of pure coronary artery spasm in patients treated medically

The clinical course of 59 patients with coronary artery spasm and no fixed severe coronary obstruction was analyzed for an average of 5.9 years. The study group consisted of 27 men and 32 women. Angina at rest was the predominant symptom in 93% of the patients. Myocardial infarction occurred in 19% and syncope during angina in 27%. During spontaneous anginal episodes, 64% of the patients showed ST segment elevation, 17% ST segment depression and 15% no electrocardiographic changes. Major arrhythmias during angina occurred in 24% of the patients. Permanent pacemakers were required in 10% of the patients. Stress tests were positive in 32% of the patients. Long-acting nitrate therapy controlled symptoms in only 31%, and calcium antagonist agents controlled symptoms in 83% of the patients unresponsive to nitrates. Spontaneous remission of angina for at least 1 month while receiving no medical treatment occurred in 39% of the patients. Fifteen percent of patients had an indefinite remission with no recurrence of symptoms for at least 2 years. There were no cardiac deaths. The natural history of medically treated patients with pure coronary spasm is characterized by recurrent angina at rest, frequent spontaneous remission, a poor response to long-acting nitrate therapy and a good response to calcium antagonists. Although myocardial infarction and major arrhythmias are common, cardiac mortality is low in medically treated patients.
Antithrombin Concentrate Use in Children: A Multicenter Cohort Study

Antithrombin, a 58-kD serine protease inhibitor synthesized in the liver, irreversibly inactivates several endogenous active clotting factors, including factor Xa and thrombin.1,2 Heparin, the most commonly used parenteral anticoagulant, functions by potentiating antithrombin’s anticoagulant activity 1000- to 5000-fold.3,4 Antithrombin also possesses anti-inflammatory properties mediated primarily through its interaction with the endothelium.1 Congenital antithrombin deficiency is uncommon, with an estimated prevalence of 1:500–20,000, and results from either quantitative or qualitative defects in the circulating antithrombin protein.1,5,6 Acquired antithrombin deficiency is more common resulting from low production (e.g., liver disease), consumption (e.g., disseminated intravascular coagulation), increased losses (e.g., protein-losing enteropathy, nephrotic syndrome, chylothoraces), or by drug-induced mechanisms (eg, L-asparaginase, heparin). Term neonates typically do not reach adult antithrombin levels until 6 months of age.7 Two formulations of antithrombin concentrate are available commercially. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a plasma-derived concentrate (Thrombate III®, Grifols, Los Angeles, CA) in 1991 and a recombinant concentrate (ATryn ®, GTC Biotherapeutics, Framingham, MA) in 2006. The two formulations share an identical amino acid sequence, but the glycosylation pattern differs so that the recombinant form has a higher heparin affinity and a significantly shorter half-life and is therefore given as a continuous infusion.8 Both formulations are FDA-approved for the prevention of peri-operative and peripartum thromboembolic events in adults with congenital antithrombin deficiency.9,10 The safety and efficacy of antithrombin concentrates in pediatrics has not been established; therefore, antithrombin is not FDA-approved in this population. Three decades of literature abound with the use of antithrombin concentrate in children to treat either congenital or acquired antithrombin deficiency. At one tertiary-level pediatric hospital, antithrombin concentrate use increased from 3 patients per year in 1999 to 29 patients per year in 2009 with the most common indication being acquired antithrombin deficiency associated with major cardiac surgery, heparin infusion, sepsis, or severe thromboembolism.11 Other significant associations were extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and orthotopic liver transplantation.11 However, rigorous safety and efficacy studies have not paralleled the increase in the off-label use of antithrombin concentrate. This multicenter cohort study aims to describe antithrombin concentrate use in U.S. children’s hospitals.
Defense chemistry of Solidago altissima : effects on the generalist herbivore Trichoplusia ni (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

The effects of the defensive chemistry of Solidago altissima on the cabbage looper, Trichoplusia ni (Hubner), were shown using artificial diet bioassays. Lyophilized S. altissima leaves were incorporated into an artificial diet. Leaf powder also was extracted in hexane, methanol, and water, and the extracts and postextraction residue were incorporated separately into artificial diets. The control contained cellulose powder in place of leaf material. Also, larvae were grown on live, intact S. altissima plants. The mortality rate was 100% in the whole-leaf powder and methanol extract diets, 97.2% in the hexane extract diet, and 96% in the live-plant experiment. Mortality on the water extract diet (12%) and on the residue-containing diet (13%) was lower than that on the cellulose powder control (17.4%). S. altissima contains chemicals that severely reduce larval survivorship of T. ni , but once these chemicals are removed through extraction, the larvae are able to use the nutrients contained in the leaves. These nutrients increase survivorship to adulthood above that on the cellulose control hut do not significantly affect time to pupation, pupal mass, or fecundity.
Novel Unity-Gain Frequency Tracking Control of Series–Series Resonant Converter to Improve Efficiency and Receiver Positioning Flexibility in Wireless Charging of Portable Electronics

Currently available wireless charging technology for portable electronics demonstrates several shortcomings. For the consumers, the two major shortcomings are limited receiver positioning flexibility and lower efficiency compared to hard-connected charging. For the industry, the major disadvantages are higher cost and complexity in design and control. To overcome these shortcomings and disadvantages, this paper presents a novel control method for unity-gain frequency tracking (UGFT) under coupling coefficient $(k)$ variation in a resonant converter containing a symmetrically implemented series–series (SS) resonant tank. An SS resonant converter employing the UGFT control provides several desirable features: the need for digital communication between the transmitter and the receiver to achieve leakage inductance compensation is eliminated, the design is robust against coupling $(k)$ and load $(Q)$ variations, the SS resonant converter can operate most of the time at the frequency of highest efficiency (unity-gain frequency $f_{O}$ ), and the downstream regulator commonly employed in a wireless charging system may be eliminated. Furthermore, in this paper, frequency-domain characteristics of SS resonant tank are explained in detail to illustrate various desirable characteristics. Detailed design criteria for SS resonant tanks are provided to achieve these characteristics. Throughout the analysis, various simulation results are provided to complement the discussion. The proposed UGFT control method is validated through experimental results.
Bubble formation in water at smooth hydrophobic surfaces

It has frequently been assumed that hydrophobic surfaces serve as initiation points for in vivo bubble formation; yet, no studies have demonstrated that this relationship actually exists. In the present investigation, the concept of spontaneous bubble formation at smooth hydrophobic surfaces has been examined. Smooth polystyrene and silica beads, each with either hydrophilic or hydrophobic surfaces, were examined for their ability to generate bubbles in distilled water at gas supersaturations ranging from 5 to 125 atm N2 at room temperature (24-27°C). Few bubbles occurred in suspensions exposed to gas supersaturations in the range from 5 to 50 atm N2. Even at higher gas supersaturations, which approached the spontaneous nucleation threshold of bulk water, relatively few bubbles were formed in these suspensions. Clearly, these surfaces did not induce gas bubble formation, even at high gas supersaturations. This suggests that the cohesive forces between the water and hydrophobic particles were not weakened to the point of rupture, so that these interfaces did not provide bubble nucleation sites. This investigation demonstrated that smooth surfaces, whether hydrophilic or hydrophobic in nature, do not facilitate in vitro gas bubble formation by dissolved gas in water.
Germination of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis spores in the gut of Aedes larvae (Diptera: Culicidae)

Abstract In laboratory experiments, germination and growth of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis in the gut of Aedes aegypti and A. vexans larvae (Culicidae: Diptera) was observed. The number of spores and vegetative cells in the gut of living larvae and in cadavers was estimated by plaing homogenized larvae on selective agar plates. The number of spores per gut increased in the first 40–140 min of exposure to a maximum, and decreased in the subsequent time, demonstrating spore germination in living larvae, moribunds, and in cadavers. Twenty-four hours after the death of the larvae, a minimal amount of spores, but an increased number of vegetative cells, was found in cadavers. In A. aegypti larvae, germination and growth of B. thuringiensis israelensis in the larval gut was photographically documented.
Revenue Features of Multiple Exchange Rate Systems: Some Case Studies

THE USUAL PURPOSE of multiple exchange rates is to cope with over-all balance of payments problems. Sometimes, e.g., when multiple rates are designed to deal with problems of particular exports or the relative holdings of various currencies, they may have a direct effect on these problems. But when they are designed to reduce or to counteract internal inflationary pressure, they may have an indirect effect. If multiple rates are to produce such an anti-inflationary effect, they must yield revenue or exchange profits. Frequently, indeed, the raising of revenue is a specific secondary purpose of a multiple rate practice; but in any case, irrespective of the purpose, the result often is an increase of revenue.
Lithography on GaP(100) surfaces

Abstract Two types of lithographic methods were used to modify GaP(1 0 0) surfaces with commercially available alkanethiol molecules: microcontact printing (μCP) and “dip-pen” nanolithography (DPN). The patterned surfaces were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (FT-IRRAS). The characterization was done in order to understand the quality of each type of pattern, its chemical composition, and the organization of the molecules on the surface. Differences between the two lithographic methods used to do lithography on the GaP(1 0 0) in this study were dependent on the chosen molecular “ink”.
Depression in patients with spinal cord injuries: A synthesis of cognitive and somatic processes

Depression in some patients with spinal cord injuries may be clinically significant and, when present, should be treated to decrease morbidity including decreased physical functioning. Depression associated with spinal cord injury (SCI) may be misevaluated, due to (1) nonspecific multifactorial production of depression symptoms and (2) SCI-specific decrease in somatic sensory central nervous system input. The Somatic Suppression Hypothesis suggests that SCI patients have difficulty experiencing any intense emotion because of suppression of physiological arousal. In addition, cognitive processes that may reduce depression in SCI patients include: (1) attribution of somatic symptoms of depression to medical (biological) causes, (2) realistic, positive expectations for physical improvement, and (3) the perception that the disability of the SCI is only minimally related to the patient’s self-care after complete evaluation. Health personnel should accept lack of depression in SCI, and should encourage positive realistic expectations of recovery.
Immediate exercise testing to evaluate low-risk patients presenting to the emergency department with chest pain.

Abstract Objectives Our purpose was to determine the safety and accuracy of immediate exercise testing in low-risk patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with chest pain suggestive of a cardiac etiology. Background Safe, efficient management of low-risk patients presenting to the ED with chest pain is a continuing challenge. We have employed immediate exercise testing to evaluate a large, heterogeneous group of low-risk patients presenting with chest pain. Methods Patients presenting to the ED with chest pain compatible with a cardiac origin and clinical evidence of low risk on initial assessment underwent immediate exercise treadmill testing in our chest pain evaluation unit. Indicators of low clinical risk included no evidence of hemodynamic instability, arrhythmias or electrocardiographic signs of ischemia. Serial measurements of cardiac injury markers were not obtained. Results Exercise testing was performed to a sign- or symptom-limited end point in 1,000 patients (520 men, 480 women; age range 31 to 82 years) and was positive for ischemia in 13%, negative in 64% and nondiagnostic in 23% of patients. There were no adverse effects of exercise testing, and all patients with a negative exercise test were discharged directly from the ED. At 30-day follow-up there was no mortality in any of the three groups. Cardiac events in the three groups included: negative group, 1 non–Q-wave myocardial infarction (MI); positive group, 4 non–Q-wave MIs and 12 myocardial revascularizations; nondiagnostic group, 7 myocardial revascularizations. Conclusions Immediate exercise testing of patients presenting to the ED with chest pain and evidence of low clinical risk is safe and accurate for determining those who require admission and those who can be discharged to further outpatient evaluation.
Ecological Displays, Information Integration, and Display Format: An Empirical Evaluation Across Multiple Small Displays

We investigated factors in the design of small displays designed using the ecological interface design (EID) methodology. Method of information integration and level of consistency of object visual...
Engineering design of the ARIES-RS power plant

ARIES-RS is a fusion power plant design study which has examined the ability of an advanced tokamak-based power plant to compete with future energy sources and play a significant role in the future energy market. A steady-state reversed shear tokamak currently appears to offer the best combination of good economic performance and physics credibility for a tokamak-based power plant. In this article, the engineering design features of the ARIES-RS power core are described, with an emphasis on features adopted to meet the top-level requirements, on design integration advances, and on the key issues for further research and development.
Sedimentation in a closed trough north of the Iberia Abyssal Plain in the northeast Atlantic

Mirrol Trough of the northeast Atlantic contains five NNE-SSW trending, en echelon, turbidite-filled basins deeper than 5500 m, each ranging from 4 to 10 km in width and 19 to 65 km in length. Trough deposition has consisted mainly of turbidites from adjacent hills and ridges as indicated by the physiography of the region, sediment isopach map, the nature of the sediments in the trough, and benthic foraminiferal depth indicator species. The sedimentation rate on abyssal hills and ridges, as deduced from palaeomagnetic evidence, is 1.36 cm/103 years. Using this sedimentation rate, it is estimated that Mirrol Trough subsided relative to the surrounding area and began receiving sediments between 8.3 and 11.5 m.y. ago; and the deposition of the most recent turbidite has occurred sometime between 29,000 and 44,000 years b.p. Tilting of the base of the most recent turbidite with respect to the basin floor is observed, and this is attributed to relative sinking of the eastern margin of the trough after the deposition of the most recent turbidite.