cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Immunolocalization of transcription factor NF-κB in inclusion-body myositis muscle and at normal human neuromuscular junctions

To investigate whether nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) is involved in the pathogenesis of inclusion-body myositis (IBM), we immunostained muscle biopsies of eight patients with IBM with specific antibodies against its p50 and p65 subunits. Approximately 70% of IBM vacuolated muscle fibers had strong focal accumulations of both NF-kappaB p50 and p65, which by immunoelectronmicroscopy, localized mainly to clusters of paired-helical filaments (PHFs). Virtually all necrotic fibers, in various muscle biopsies, had diffusely strong p50 immunoreactivity, whereas p65 immunoreactivity was present only in a small subset of necrotic fibers. At all neuromuscular junctions, postsynaptically there was strong p65 but no p50 immunoreactivity. Our data suggest that NF-kappaB plays a role in IBM pathogenesis. Different distributions of NF-kappaB subunits in necrotic fibers and at normal neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) suggests different roles of each subunit in human muscle pathology and physiology.
Asperger's disorder will be back.

This review focuses on identifying up-to-date number of publications that compared DSM-IV/ICD-10 Asperger’s disorder (AspD) to Autistic Disorder/High-functioning Autism (AD/HFA). One hundred and twenty-eight publications were identified through an extensive search of major electronic databases and journals. Based on more than 90 clinical variables been investigated, 94 publications concluded that there were statistically significant or near significant level of quantitative and/or qualitative differences between AspD and AD/HFA groups; 4 publications found both similarities and differences between the two groups; 30 publications concluded with no differences between the two groups. Although DSM-5 ASD will eliminate Asperger’s disorder. However, it is plausible to predict that the field of ASD would run full circle during the next decade or two and that AspD will be back in the next edition of DSM.
Making connexons in the neurovascular unit.

Less than a decade ago, the term blood–brain barrier underwent a major conceptual change when it was recognized that the cerebrovasculature was anything, but passive in its structure and function. Instead of a layer of bricks separated by heavy mortar, the brain endothelial cell became one of a complement of cell types performing together as a dynamic, integrated unit and functioning as a major contributor to brain homeostasis. Today, this assembly is known as the neurovascular unit (NVU) and consists of endothelial cells, pericytes, astroctyes, and neurons with critical roles for microglia, circulating immune cells and smooth muscle cells as well (Abbott et al, 2010; Neuwelt et al, 2011). As a unit, these cells form a permeability barrier; regulate blood flow, neuronal development, and immune function; and conduct surveillance of neural signaling and cellular activity. The NVU is now implicated in many neurologic disease conditions because a damaged or dysfunctional NVU will lead to dysfunction of the surrounding brain cells and their integrated neurologic functions (Neuwelt et al, 2011; Zlokovic, 2011). Thus, the NVU may be either a cause of neurologic disease or a major, therapy requiring, complicating condition associated with a primary disease.
Stimulation of Potassium Efflux in Rat Liver by a Low Dose of Thyroid Hormone: Evidence for Enhanced Cation Permeability in the Absence of Na,K-ATPase Induction

The effects of a low dose of T3 on passive cellular K+ efflux and Na,K-ATPase activity were studied in hypothyroid rat liver. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were rendered hypothyroid by 4 weeks of a low iodine diet with 0.5% NaCIO4added to the drinking water, and for the last 2 weeks of this period received daily sc injections of either T3 (1 μg/100 g BW) or diluent alone. At the end of this time, both the passive efflux of 86Rb+ (a K+ analog) from liver slices isotopically prelabeled in vitro and Na,K-ATPase activity in liver homogenates were determined. The T3 treatment regimen resulted in a 55% increase in the 86Rb+ efflux rate constant (P < 0.003), while, in contrast, Na,K-ATPase activity remained unchanged. These results show that T3, even at a low dose, enhances passive K+ efflux from liver slices and that, consistent with previous observations, this enhancement can occur in the absence of any detectable change in the number of Na,K pumps. Since the rate of Na,K pump function appears in general to be limi...
Experimental measurement of physical pressure in foods during frying

Abstract Two important factors affecting the oil uptake in foods during deep fat frying are water content and pressure development. In the past frying studies, the physical pressure has not been measured experimentally but was calculated using computer models, which has resulted in disagreements about its magnitude. The present study tries to explain the complex mass transfer mechanisms taking place during deep fat frying with respect to real time pressure variations inside potato discs and chicken nuggets. Frying experiments were performed at two temperatures of 175 °C and 190 °C for 200 and 240 s for potato discs and chicken nuggets, respectively. The gage pressure increased rapidly above the atmospheric pressure immediately after the samples were introduced into the hot oil. The rise in pressure was greater in potato discs with greater initial moisture content. This was expected due to sudden moisture flash-off. As frying progressed, the temperature inside the samples increased whereas the gage pressure started decreasing and became negative. The onset of negative pressure was observed during initial stages of frying for chicken nuggets, but in the middle of frying for potato discs. The negative pressure values before the product is taken outside the fryer may cause increased oil uptake during frying itself. During the post frying cooling, the pressure further decreased and reached negative values. The negative pressure is expected to have caused rapid absorption of surface oil during both frying and cooling stages.
The Zelmanov approach to Jordan homomorphisms of associative algebras

Abstract Zelmanov's work on prime Jordan algebras leads to an idempotent-free version of Martindale's Theorem on the extension of Jordan homomorphisms and derivations from the hermitian elements H(R, *) of an associative algebra of degree >2 with involution to associative homomorphisms and derivations on R. The condition that J = H(R, *) be of degree >2 is replaced by the intrinsic condition that J = Z(J) ⊂ H(A,*) consist entirely of values of Zelmanov polynomials.
Shared leadership, diversity, and information sharing in teams

Purpose – Shared leadership is increasingly important in today's organizations. The purpose of this paper is to examine the association between shared leadership and team performance, the moderating role of demographic diversity and the mediating role of information sharing on this relationship. Design/methodology/approach – The research used a field study design, quantitative data of employees from two different organizations. Data were analyzed with structural equation modeling analyses. Findings – Shared leadership was positively associated with team performance and this association was mediated by information sharing. Demographic diversity moderated the relationship between shared leadership and team performance, such that shared leadership was more strongly associated with team performance in more diverse teams and less in less diverse teams. Research limitations/implications – The results found support for moderating and mediating variables, explaining under what conditions and how shared leadership...
Velocity estimation for radar systems with staggered pulse repetition frequency

The availability of low-cost, high-performance signal processing hardware can be used to significant advantage in enhancing the performance of older radar systems. Key performance areas such as detection and tracking ability may be dramatically improved without modifying the core components of the radar system. The tracking process is an ideal candidate for improvement through the use of an adjunct high-performance signal processor. As target threats minimize radar cross section, detecting and tracking them in dense clutter backgrounds becomes a challenging task. Conventional tracking systems initiate tracks by associating signal detections in a spatial window. The size of this window is necessarily large to accommodate the fastest target of interest. Often, spurious detections from clutter will be associated and result in the formation of false tracks. In addition, target detections may be erroneously associated with clutter and cause an actual target track to be dropped. The use of additional discriminants in the track formation process can mitigate these effects resulting in improved tracking performance. Velocity estimates, generated by observing the signal phase progression over a series of transmitted pulses, can provide additional discrimination ability against clutter. This paper examines the development and implementation of a velocity estimator for a radar system with staggered pulse repetition frequency. Key design issues are discussed and results are presented to exemplify the improvement in tracking performance.
Depressive symptoms in the second trimester relate to low oxytocin levels in African-American women: a pilot study

Low-income African-American women report elevated prenatal depressive symptoms more often (42 %) than the national average (20 %). In the USA in 2012, 16.5 % of African-American women experienced a premature birth (less than 36 completed gestational weeks) compared to 10.3 % of white women. In addition, 13 % of African-American women had a low-birth weight infant (less than 2,500 g) compared to 7 % of white women. Variation in the neuropeptide, oxytocin has been implicated in perinatal depression, maternal behavior, regulation of stress responses, and may be associated with this health disparity. The purpose of this investigation was to examine factors associated with prenatal depressive symptoms, including plasma oxytocin levels and birth weight, in a sample of urban African-American women. Pregnant African-American women (N = 57) completed surveys and had blood drawn twice during pregnancy at 15–22 weeks and 25–37 weeks. In addition, birth data were collected from medical records. A large number of participants reported elevated prenatal depressive symptoms at the first (n = 20, 35 %) and the second (n = 19, 33 %) data points. Depressive symptoms were higher in multigravidas (t(51) = −2.374, p = 0.02), women with higher anxiety (r(47) = 0.71, p = 0.001), women who delivered their infants at an earlier gestational age (r(51) = −0.285, p = 0.04), and those without the support of the infant’s father (F(4, 48) = 2.676, p = 0.04). Depressive symptoms were also higher in women with low oxytocin levels than in women with high oxytocin levels (F(2, 47) = 3.3, p = 0.05). In addition, women who had low oxytocin tended to have infants with lower birth weights (F(2, 47) = 2.9, p = 0.06). Neither prenatal depressive symptoms nor prenatal oxytocin levels were associated with premature birth. Pregnant multigravida African-American women with increased levels of anxiety and lacking the baby’s father’s support during the pregnancy are at higher risk for prenatal depressive symptoms. Prenatal depressive symptoms are associated with low oxytocin levels and lower infant birth weights. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms between prenatal depressive symptoms, oxytocin, and birth weight in order to better understand this health disparity.
Net protein values for the growing chicken from carcass analysis with special reference to animal protein sources

The use of this laboratory's variation of the carcass N retention method was extended to a study of common protein sources (mostly animal protein) used in the laboratory or in commercial feeds for growing chickens. The following conclusions were made : (1) Whole egg protein and egg albumen were the best protein sources tested, although the NPV results were considerably lower than those reported for growing rats. (2) Crude casein was greatly improved by supplementation with arginine, glycine and methionine, but the NPV of the supplemented protein was still not as good as that of the isolated soya-bean protein with added methionine. (3) Zein and gelatin gave NPV results of approximately 20 even though the birds lost weight. Supplementing gelatin with essential amino-acids to simulate isolated soya-bean protein with added methionine, doubled the NPV but it was still much lower than the values for the latter. (4) Menhaden fish meal approached the value obtained for the methionine-supplemented isolated soya-bean protein. Even a heat-damaged sample was still superior to meat meal as a protein source. (5) The very low NPV results for four samples of meat meal from different sources could be attributed to their high collagen content as calculated from hydroxyproline determination.
A contrast effect in differential conditioning.

Contrary to the interests of parsimony in theory construction, an increasing number of experiments have shown that the reinforcing effect of a given amount of reward is not a static parameter; rather, the conception that emerges from these studies is that the reinforcing effect depends upon the context in which that reward quantity occurs; in particular, it depends upon the range of alternative rewards 5 has received in the experimental situation. The most direct evidence for this context effect comes from studies of visual discrimination learning. Meyer (1951) andSchrierand Harlow (1956), working with monkeys, and Lawson (1957), working with rats, found that rate of error elimination in a series of visual discrimination problems was not significantly related to the amount of reward when 5 received the same amount (large or small) on every problem. By comparison, if 5 received different amounts of reward for performing correctly on different problems of the learning series, learning rate on a given problem varied directly with the amount of reward for that problem. These prior studies investigated the context effect in selective learning situations in which the performance measure (percentage of correct responses) presumably reflects the resolution among several competing reac-
Absorption and disposition of 203Hg in the pregnant and nonpregnant hamster following oral administration of [203Hg]methylmercuric chloride

The absorption and disposition of 203Hg was determined in pregnant and nonpregnant golden hamsters by means of γ scintillation spectroscopy. The animals were given 5 μCi [203Hg]methylmercuric chloride orally on gestational Day 9. Urine and feces were collected until Day 15, when the animals were sacrificed. Adult and fetal tissues were analyzed for 203Hg concentrations. At 12 hr postintubation, pregnant hamsters absorbed more of the administered dose (96.10 ± 0.63% vs 92.02 ± 1.35%, : < 0.05) and eliminated less methylmercury in the feces (3.90 ± 0.63% vs 7.98 ± 1.35%, P < 0.05) than nonpregnant animals. Beyond 12 hr postintubation, the absorption and elimination patterns were similar in both groups. Comparison of organs from pregnant and nonpregnant animals revealed greater methylmercury concentrations in the cerebella, pons-medullas, and spleens of pregnant females. The fetal head was found to contain significantly more methylmercury than the fetal body (P < 0.001).
Rapid scanning microspectrophotometry of colorless Euglena gracilis and Astasia longa. A basis for differentiation.

SYNOPSIS. Automated cell identification by computer-assisted analyses of data obtained by ultraviolet microspectrophotometry has been applied as a means of distinguishing between 2 structurally similar euglenoids, colorless Euglena gracilis and Astasia longa. Quantitative differences of nuclear extinction values of individual cells provided a basis for species separation. Since the highly plastic nature of the organisms resulted in variable structure of the air-dried cells, the size and shape of the organisms were disregarded as descriptors. Spherical cells were identified as readily as cells with the typical elongate structure. Misclassfication of cells was attributed to the stage of the cell in the cell cycle and the quantitative differences of nucleoprotein as determined by ultraviolet cytophotometric data.
Acetylcholine Stimulates Insulin, Glucagon, and Somatostatin Release in the Perfused Chicken Pancreas*

To evaluate the possible cholinergic control of islet hormone secretion, acetylcholine (10 μM) was perfused into the isolated chicken pancreas-duodenum, with perfusate concentrations of 2.8, 14, or 42 mM glucose. Prompt and significant stimulation of insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin secretion was seen when the glucose concentration was 14 mM, and this stimulation was blocked by preinfusion of atropine sulfate (50 μM). Similar stimulation of all three peptides was seen when the perfusate concentration of glucose was 42 mM. When the perfusate glucose concentration was 2.8 mM, the insulin response to acetylcholine was absent and the response by glucagon could not be discerned, perhaps because release was close to maximal. The somatostatin response, however, was only slightly diminished from that seen at higher glucose levels. The B cell response to acetylcholine in the chicken was considerably greater than the weak responses seen to high glucose or arginine, suggesting a dominant role for cholinergic cont...
Evaluation of the Biochemical Basis of Insecticide Selectivity Between Host and Parasitoid Species

Previously, we examined the effect of insecticides on four species of pteromalid parasitoids and their host, the house fly, Musca domestica L. Generally, the parasitoids are more susceptible to insecticides than the flies. In this study we examined the effects of synergists that are known to block oxidative (piperonyl butoxide) (PBO) or hydrolytic ( S,S,S -tributylphosphorotrithioate) (DEF) metabolism on the toxicity of five insecticides to M. domestica and the pteromalid wasp, Muscidifurax raptor Girault & Sanders, to evaluate if metabolism was involved in the differential toxicity observed in the fly–parasitoid system. No consistent differences in PBO- or DEF-enhanced insecticide toxicity between species were seen. This suggests there is no general rule that can be made regarding increased levels of monooxygenase or hydrolase activities between host versus parasitoid species. Although the differential toxicity of certain insecticides to M. raptor and M. domestica is due in part to differential metabolism, it is clear that other processes must also be involved.
Features associated with surgical outcome in patients with stages 4 and 5 retinopathy of prematurity.

Purpose To present ocular features associated with surgical outcomes in infants with stages 4 and 5 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Methods Twenty-two infants (35 eyes) were referred for vitreoretinal surgery for stages 4 and 5 ROP. The following ocular features recorded before the development of retinal detachment requiring surgical intervention were analyzed: clock hour extent of ridge elevation, vitreous state, plus disease, prominent iris vessels, neovascularization, and the presence of exudates. Surgical procedures included scleral buckle, lensectomy-vitrectomy, and lens-sparing vitrectomy. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine features associated with failure to achieve retinal reattachment as the main outcome variable. Results Of the 35 eyes that underwent at least one surgical procedure, nine had successful retinal reattachment after the first surgery, and 18 achieved it at the end of follow-up. After accounting for the correlation between the eyes, features significantly associated with surgical failure after the first surgery were vitreous haze, hemorrhage, or organization; plus disease; and neovascularization. The presence of exudates was significantly associated with a successful outcome. When eyes were analyzed by stage at the first procedure, vitreous organization and plus disease were associated with failed retinal reattachment in stage 4 eyes, whereas at least 6 clock hours of ridge elevation and plus disease were significant in stage 5 eyes. The need to perform a lensectomy-vitrectomy was associated with a poor surgical outcome. Neither stage nor number of procedures performed was associated with the development of phthisis. Conclusions Vitreous haze, neovascularization, and plus disease are associated with a poor surgical outcome in eyes that progress after treatment for threshold ROP requiring surgical intervention for retinal detachment. When eyes were divided by stage of ROP at first surgery, plus disease remained a significant variable associated with failed retinal reattachment. Close observation of eyes after laser treatment for threshold ROP is necessary. If neovascularization and plus disease persist and progression of ROP is noted, additional laser should be considered before surgery for retinal detachment. Additional studies with a larger patient sample will be necessary to further define ocular features associated with surgical outcome for ROP.
The advantages of multiple parallelizations in combinatorial search

Abstract Applications typically have several potential sources of parallelism, and in choosing a particular parallelization, the programmer must balance the benefits of each source of parallelism with the corresponding overhead. The trade-offs are often difficult to analyze, as they may depend on the hardware architecture, software environment, input data, and properties of the algorithm. An example of this dilemma occurs in a wide range of problems that involve processing trees, wherein processors can be assigned either to separate subtrees, or to parallelizing the work performed on individual tree nodes. We explore the complexity of the trade-offs involved in this decision by considering alternative parallelizations of combinatorial search, examining the factors that determine the best-performing implementation for this important class of problems. Using subgraph isomorphism as a representative search problem, we show how the density of the solution space, the number of solutions desired, the number of available processors, and the underlying architecture all affect the choice of an efficient parallelization. Our experiments, which span seven different shared-memory multiprocessors and a wide range of input graphs, indicate that relative performance depends on each of these factors. On some machines and for some inputs, a sequential depth-first search of the solution space, applying simple loop-level parallelism at each node in the search tree, performs best. On other machines or other inputs, parallel tree search performs best. In still other cases, a hybrid solution, containing both parallel tree search and loop parallelism, works best. We present a quantitative analysis that explains these results and present experimental data culled from thousands of program executions that validates the analysis. From these experiences we conclude that there is no one "best" parallelization that suffices over a range of machines, inputs, and precise problem specifications. As a corollary, we provide quantitative evidence that programming environments and languages should not focus exclusively on flat data parallelism, since nested parallelism or hybrid forms of parallelism may be required for an efficient implementation of some applications.
Vision based controller for autonomous aerial refueling

Autonomous aerial refueling is an important capability for unmanned aerial vehicles. This paper develops a candidate autonomous probe-and-drogue aerial refueling controller for an existing vision based relative position sensor and navigation system. The feasibility of the combined sensor-navigator-controller is demonstrated by a simulated UAV docking maneuver to a moving drogue in light turbulence. Results indicate that the controller can provide precise aerial refueling with good disturbance rejection characteristics.
Abnormalities in the distribution of laminin and collagen type IV in Hirschsprung's disease

In vitro neurite outgrowth and neuronal survival are promoted by laminin, and neuronal migration is promoted by collagen type IV. This led to the hypothesis that Hirschsprung's disease (HD) could be the result of an abnormal extracellular matrix microenvironment in the affected bowel during embryogenesis. Using indirect immunohistochemistry, we studied the distribution of laminin and collagen type IV in the bowel specimens of eight HD patients (four neonates and four infants) and 16 age- and site-matched controls from non-HD patients. In eight HD specimens, the tissue studied was from the aganglionic, transitional, and proximal normoganglionic zones. Uniform distribution of laminin and collagen type IV was observed in the basement membranes of all control specimens. The semiquantitative abnormality in the distribution of these proteins in HD occurred as follows: immunoreactivities were more intense in the inner circular layer, diminishing with a gradient in the outer muscularis externa in six of six aganglionic, four of five transitional, and three of eight normoganglionic sections. The qualitative abnormality of these proteins in HD was speckled immunofluorescence outside the basement membranes of the muscularis externa in all three zones of neonatal specimens only. These findings support the microenvironment hypothesis of the pathogenesis of HD.
Finding a Maximum Clique in a Set of Proper Circular Arcs in Time O(n) with Applications

A maximum clique is sought in a set of n proper circular arcs (PCAS). By means of several passes, each O(n) in time and space, a PCAS is transformed initially into a set of circle chords and finally into a set of intervals. This interval model inherits a special property from the PCAS which ensures the discovery of a maximum overlap clique in time O(n). The one-to-one arc/interval correspondence guarantees the identification of the maximum clique in the PCAS in O(n) time and space. The present paper gives new, simpler proofs for the lemmas first outlined by us in Ref. [9], extending the methods outlined in that paper so that the time bound is improved from O(n log n) to O(n). The method depends only on certain interconnections between constructions related to the computation of longest increasing subsequences. Independently, Hell, Huang and Bhattacharya5 recently discovered a completely different approach that also achieves the same complexity, and can moreover be applied to the weighted case and to the coloring problem on proper circular arcs. The previous best result, due to Apostolico and Hambrusch2 applies to general circular arc models and has time complexity O(n2log log n) and space complexity O(n). As applications of the method, we show that maximum weight clique of a set of weighted proper circular arcs can be found in time O(n2) and space O(n). The previous best result was O(n2log log n) for dense general circular arc graphs.13 We also show that, for n chords with randomly placed endpoints (1) the average cardinality of a maximum clique is cn1/2 ± o(n1/2), where 21/2< c < e21/2, and (2) a maximum clique may be found in average time O(n3/2) and space θ(n). The previous best average time complexity, derived from Ref. [1], was O(n3/2log n).
Viscoelastic-Elastic Composites: II, Sandwich Seal

The viscoelastic analysis of the sandwich seal is compared with experimental results. Agreement is good for cooling, heating, and isothermal holds. The importance of accounting for the effect of structural relaxation on glass properties is demonstrated. Based on the observation that the average relaxation time of the seal at the setting temperature is constant, two simple and accurate procedures are presented for estimating the setting temperature of a seal using minimal experimental data.
An analysis of Meyer and Allen's continuance commitment construct

Researchers have disagreed recurrently over the years concerning the nature of continuance commitment as developed within the Meyer and Allen paradigm, specifically whether continuance commitment consists of ‘high sacrifices’ and ‘low alternatives’ subdimensions. To address this, Edward's analytical strategy was used to examine continuance commitment as having superordinate, aggregate, or multivariate structural forms. Results suggest that (1) continuance commitment is not a multidimensional construct, (2) that the ‘high sacrifices’ subscale alone taps continuance commitment, and (3) the ‘low alternatives’ subscale measures neither continuance commitment nor perceived employment alternatives. Implications for further exploration of the continuance commitment construct are discussed.
Complexes of tRNA and maturation enzymes: shaping up for translation

Several significant structures of transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA) maturation enzymes complexed with precursor tRNA or fragments thereof have been published recently, providing detailed knowledge of enzyme-tRNA recognition and catalytic strategies. In addition to reinforcing the general principles of RNA-protein interaction, the new structures highlight both the features of composite RNA recognition by multiple enzyme subunits and the pronounced RNA structural flexibility in or near the active site in all cases. These structural principles provide plausible explanations for the exquisite specificity and catalytic power of these enzymes and, in the case of evolutionary adaptation, for the ability of some enzymes to develop novel specificities.
Learning to Listen: An Experimental Study.

Eleven basic skills involved in effective listening and reading were isolated for study. These skills were believed to underlie an effective understanding of oral and written communications. It was hypothesized that training could improve the learning of these basic listening skills. After controlling for socio‐economic status and sex differences, pupils in grades 2 and 5 were randomly assigned to a training and a non‐training condition. The training consisted of a number of sessions whereby the student listened to pre‐recorded tapes composed around the 11 basic listening skills. Following training, all students were administered a 33‐item test consisting of questions measuring comprehension of the basic skills. Using analysis of variance techniques, the effectiveness of training in listening was analysed. Whereas the training was found to be highly effective at grade 2, it was only moderately effective at grade 5. 1This research was supported by US Office of Education Grant #9‐8‐005424‐0043‐(056). The au...
Quantitative three-dimensional reconstruction of aneurysmal left ventricles. In vitro and in vivo validation.

Background Current two-dimensional (2D) echocardiographic measures of left ventricular (LV) volume are most limited by aneurysmal distortion, which restricts application of simple geometric models that assume symmetrical shape. 2D methods also fail to provide separate volumes of the aneurysm and nonaneurysmal residual LV cavity, which could help assess the stroke volume wasted by dyskinesis and the potential residual LV body to guide surgical approaches and predict their outcome. Three-dimensional (3D) echocardiographic reconstruction has potential advantages for assessing aneurysmal left ventricles because it is not dependent on geometric assumptions, does not require standardized views that may exclude portions of the aneurysm, and can potentially measure separate aneurysm and nonaneurysm cavity volumes of any shape. The purpose of this study was first, to validate the accuracy of 3D echocardiographic reconstruction for quantifying total LV and separate LV body and aneurysm volumes in vitro so as to pro...
Politics in the hot zone: Aids and national security in Africa

Traditional security studies and international relations theory do little to address the security issues associated with the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Because security studies and international relations have been preoccupied with conditions affecting the major powers, little of the long history of international relations and national security has practical application to Africa and the HIV/AIDS epidemic it is experiencing. From a theoretical perspective many fields of security studies and international relations do not adequately address critical dimensions in dealing with security. Dimensions of time, scope and depth are often overlooked. This point is important regarding the AIDS epidemic because time and extent often determine the security threat and whether it is a short-run threat (which is subject to greater political expediency) or a long-run threat (which is subject to less political expediency). In the short run the epidemic threatens the security of political institutions, the military and military op...
Sparse structure regularized ranking

Learning ranking scores is critical for the multimedia database retrieval problem. In this paper, we propose a novel ranking score learning algorithm by exploring the sparse structure and using it to regularize ranking scores. To explore the sparse structure, we assume that each multimedia object could be represented as a sparse linear combination of all other objects, and combination coefficients are regarded as a similarity measure between objects and used to regularize their ranking scores. Moreover, we propose to learn the sparse combination coefficients and the ranking scores simultaneously. A unified objective function is constructed with regard to both the combination coefficients and the ranking scores, and is optimized by an iterative algorithm. Experiments on two multimedia database retrieval data sets demonstrate the significant improvements of the propose algorithm over state-of-the-art ranking score learning algorithms.
Algeria and Morocco and the popular uprising in North Africa : will the exceptions last?

While what was termed the 'Arab Spring' and 'Arab Revolutions' were in full swing in 2011, Morocco and Algeria sailed safely through the strong winds of change and avoided the serious clashes and violence experienced elsewhere in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. They appeared to have done so thanks to gradual reform processes, among other things, which helped avoid unsettling revolts. In these two countries, street protests in 2011 were relatively limited, and the countries' national leaders were at no time targeted for removal or even condemnation. Morocco and Algeria became 'the exceptions' in a region engulfed by violent protests and instability.
Identification of LOS/NLOS States Using TOA Filtered Estimates

One of the major difficulties to finding accurate mobile terminal location is the lack of line-of-sight propagation (NLOS) caused by blocking of the signal’s direct path by obstacles. A tracking approach based on the Kalman recursive filtering of time-of-arrival (TOA) measurement has been successfully employed to mitigate NLOS error, but it strongly depends on proper identification of NLOS/LOS states. In this paper we propose a composite hypothesis testing to detect LOS\(\leftrightarrows\)NLOS transitions. The decision thresholds are set to minimize false alarm and miss probabilities considering statistical parameters of the location scenario. Restricted assumptions such as uncorrelation of TOA measurements (when NLOS corrupted) and knowledge of NLOS error statistics are not required. Simulation results show the validity of the proposal when compared with the technique of identifying NLOS/LOS states by standard deviation computation.
Minimizing the complexity of SRT tables

This paper presents an analysis of the complexity of quotient digit selection tables in SRT division implementations. SRT dividers are widely used in VLSI systems to compute floating-point quotients. These dividers use a fixed number of partial remainder and divisor bits to consult a table to select the next quotient-digit in each iteration. This analysis derives the allowable divisor and partial remainder truncations for radix 2 through radix 32, and it quantifies the relationship between table parameters and the complexity of the tables. Several techniques are presented for further minimizing table complexity. By mapping the tables to a library of standard-cells, delay and area values were measured and are presented for table configurations through radix 32. Several conclusions are drawn based on this data which impacts optimized SRT divider designs.
An anonymous and failure resilient fair-exchange e-commerce protocol

In an electronic commerce environment, the merchant and the customer are unlikely to trust each other. This problem has motivated researchers to propose fair-exchange protocols based on using an on-line trusted third party; the third party receives the items being exchanged from the customer and the merchant and then forwards it to the other party in a fair manner. However, the third party is a source of bottleneck for these protocols. Not only is the performance of the third party an issue, but also its vulnerability to denial of service attacks. In this paper, we propose an optimistic protocol in which the trusted third party is invoked only if any party misbehaves or prematurely aborts. The protocol achieves fairness and dispute resolution is performed automatically within the scope of the protocol. We show how we can distribute the function of the trusted third party across several third parties; this increases the robustness of the protocol. Additionally, we show how by adopting a payment mechanism based on electronic cash, we provide anonymity to the customer's transactions.
Excessive Argatroban Anticoagulation for Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia

OBJECTIVE:To report 4 patients who became excessively anticoagulated with the recommended or lower starting doses of argatroban during treatment for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia type II (HIT-II) in a cardiothoracic intensive care unit.CASE SUMMARY:Four patients were treated with argatroban after confirmation of HIT-II after cardiac surgery. In 3 patients, argatroban was initiated at the recommended starting dose of 2 μg/kg/min; in 1 patient, therapy was initiated at 1 μg/kg/min. All patients had relatively normal hepatic function. In all cases, the resulting activated partial thromboplastin time was supertherapeutic and exceeded 100 seconds in 3 patients. Additionally, argatroban clearance appeared to be prolonged upon discontinuation.DISCUSSION:Argatroban pharmacokinetics in critically ill patients have not been investigated. Our case series demonstrates the potential over-anticoagulation that can occur in this patient population despite relatively normal hepatic function. An objective causality asse...
Investigation of defect clusters in ion-irradiated Ni and NiCo using diffuse X-ray scattering and electron microscopy

Abstract The nature of defect clusters in Ni and Ni 50 Co 50 (NiCo) irradiated at room temperature with 2–16 MeV Ni ions is studied using asymptotic diffuse X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Analysis of the scattering data provides separate size distributions for vacancy and interstitial type defect clusters, showing that both types of defect clusters have smaller sizes and higher densities in NiCo than in Ni. Diffuse scattering results show good quantitative agreement with TEM size distributions for cluster sizes greater than 2 nm in diameter, but we find that TEM under represents the number of defect clusters ≤ 2 nm, which comprise the majority of vacancy clusters in NiCo. Interstitial dislocation loops and stacking fault tetrahedra are identified by TEM. Comparison of diffuse scattering lineshapes to those calculated for dislocation loops and SFTs indicates that most of the vacancy clusters are SFTs.
Modern Compiler Implementation in ML: Basic Techniques

Part I. Fundamentals of Compilation: 1. Introduction 2. Lexical analysis 3. Parsing 4. Abstract syntax 5. Semantic analysis 6. Activation records 7. Translation to intermediate code 8. Basic blocks and traces 9. Instruction selection 10. Liveness analysis 11. Register allocation 12. Putting it all together Part II. Advanced Topics: 13. Garbage collection 14. Object-oriented languages 15. Functional programming languages 16. Dataflow analysis 17. Loop optimizations Appendix: Tiger language reference manual.
Effect of ultraviolet irradiation on infectivity and deoxythymidine kinase activity of herpes simplex viruses.

SummaryInactivation of HSV types 1 and 2 by UV-irradiation was nonlinear and exhibited a two-component effect. UV-irradiated virus produced smaller and less clear plaques than normal virus. Ability of HSV to induce TdR kinase activity was progressively inactivated by increasing doses of UV-irradiation at a rate similar to inactivation of the infectivity of the virus.
The Composition of Bone. IV. Primary Calcification.

Sixteen specimens of normal rat bone were analyzed using the micro-technique described in previous communications.1,2 The age of the rats ranged from 1 day to maturity. A mean value of 1.99 ± 0.05 ...
π − π + → π − π + interactions below 0.7 GeV from π − p → π − π + n data at 5 GeV/ c

Magnetostrictive spark chambers were used with a large-aperture magnet spectrometer to study the reaction π−p→π−π+n at 5.0 GeV/c at Argonne National Laboratory. Differential cross sections for this reaction were measured in the region of low nucleon momentum transfer. Extrapolation techniques were used to obtain cross sections and phase shifts for the reaction π−π+→π−π+ in the region of dipion mass less than 0.7 GeV. Effects of the interference between the strong π−π+ amplitude and the Coulomb amplitude off the mass shell were investigated and were found to be small.
A paleopedological and ichnological approach to interpreting spatial and temporal variability in Early Permian fluvial deposits of the lower Dunkard Group, West Virginia, U.S.A.

Abstract Lower Permian (Asselian) deposits of the Washington Formation (Dunkard Group) in West Virginia (U.S.A.) represent proximal to distal expressions of a migrating, anastomosing river and associated floodplain environments. These deposits are part of the upper fluvial plain province of the Dunkard Basin characterized by thick-to-thin sandstone bodies, shales, and paleosols. The paleosols and associated ichnofossils record a wealth of paleoenvironmental, paleoecological, and paleoclimatic data which improve our understanding of the autogenic and allogenic processes that result in the spatial and temporal variability of ancient fluvial systems. This study integrates field and laboratory analysis of paleosols and ichnofossils including macro- to micromorphology, bulk geochemistry, and clay mineralogy to better understand variations in soil-forming processes across this Early Permian floodplain. Nine different pedotypes were identified including proximal, poorly developed Entisols and Inceptisols, poorly drained Histosols, and thick, moderately to well-drained Inceptisols and Vertisols. Lateral differences in paleosol properties were minor compared to the diversity of paleosols present in the vertical exposure and were largely a result of localized variations in drainage and topography. Differences in the properties of the paleosols in the vertical succession could not be explained by variable drainage due to position on the floodplain. Cyclicity was largely controlled by avulsion, but was overprinted by changes in climate. While climatic drying during the Early Permian as a general trend is well established, smaller scale fluctuations between wet and dry intervals contributed significantly to observed paleosol properties. Dominance by calcareous Vertisols in the upper fluvial plain facies province and their representation of strongly seasonal conditions are consistent with previous research; however, thorough investigation of the paleosols suggests that more humid conditions existed than the arid to semiarid climate that has been suggested.
When principled deviance becomes moral threat: Testing alternative mechanisms for the rejection of moral rebels:

Monin, Sawyer, and Marquez (2008) demonstrated that a rebel who refused to participate in a racially prejudiced decision task was derogated by actors who had themselves taken part in the task, but exalted by uninvolved observers. These authors argued that this rejection resulted from actors who expected and resented imagined moral reproach from the rebel. Two new studies address alternative explanations for such rejection of moral rebels. Study 1 rules out both (a) self-presentation and (b) a more cognitive alternative wherein anchoring on one’s first impression of a task leads to do-gooder derogation. Study 2 breaks down the principled rebellion into its two components, a principled stance and rebellion itself, to show that both seem to play a part in derogation. Individuals imagine that moral others would reject them, which in turn leads to rejecting those deviants.
High Fidelity and Low Cost Detection of Multi-Color Fluorescence from Biological Cells in a Micro Integrated Flow Cytometer (MIFC) with Disposable Observation Cell

Flow cytometry (FCM) has applications in biodefense, clinical, and environmental analysis of microbial populations [1]. Currently, the widespread use of FCM is limited by the size and cost of multi-color instruments. This paper describes a two-color micro-integrated flow cytometer (MIFC) which is novel with respect to 1) the configuration of fiberoptics within a disposable microfluidic system, and 2) the implementation of diode lasers, LEDs, and low-cost PIN photodetectors in a total analysis system with high signal to noise ratio (S/N). The MIFC (Fig. 1) has been validated using biological samples, and can reduce the size and cost of FCM by two orders of magnitude for portable, hand-held applications.
New thiophene-functionalized pyrene, peropyrene, and teropyrene via a two- or four-fold alkyne annulation and their photophysical properties

We synthesized thiophene-functionalized pyrene, peropyrene, and teropyrene through a two- or four-fold alkyne annulation reaction promoted by triflic acid. All of the target compounds were fully characterized spectroscopically, and the structure of the peropyrene analogue was unambiguously confirmed by X-ray crystallography. A significant red shift in the absorption and emission properties as a function of extended conjugation was observed by UV–vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. This alkyne annulation strategy is a useful method for the conversion of smaller polycyclic aromatics to larger ones, such as nanographenes.
An inducible ER–Golgi tether facilitates ceramide transport to alleviate lipotoxicity

Ceramides are key intermediates in sphingolipid biosynthesis and potent signaling molecules. However, excess ceramide is toxic, causing growth arrest and apoptosis. In this study, we identify a novel mechanism by which cells prevent the toxic accumulation of ceramides; they facilitate nonvesicular ceramide transfer from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the Golgi complex, where ceramides are converted to complex sphingolipids. We find that the yeast protein Nvj2p promotes the nonvesicular transfer of ceramides from the ER to the Golgi complex. The protein is a tether that generates close contacts between these compartments and may directly transport ceramide. Nvj2p normally resides at contacts between the ER and other organelles, but during ER stress, it relocalizes to and increases ER–Golgi contacts. ER–Golgi contacts fail to form during ER stress in cells lacking Nvj2p. Our findings demonstrate that cells regulate ER–Golgi contacts in response to stress and reveal that nonvesicular ceramide transfer out of the ER prevents the buildup of toxic amounts of ceramides.
Seemings as sui generis

The epistemic value of seemings is increasingly debated. Such debates are hindered, however, by a lack of consensus about the nature of seemings. There are four prominent conceptions in the literature, and the plausibility of principles such as phenomenal conservatism, which assign a prominent epistemic role to seemings, varies greatly from one conception to another. It is therefore crucial that we identify the correct conception of seemings. I argue that seemings are best understood as sui generis mental states with propositional content and a distinct phenomenal character. Rival conceptions are shown to succumb to numerous difficulties.