cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Unusual enthalpy changes which accompany the titration of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine vesicles with triton X-100

Abstract The enthalpy changes which accompany the titration of 0.1% and 0.25% small unilamellar and multiameller vesicle samples of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine with 2% Triton X-100 in 0.067 M phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) containing 0.15 M NaCl have been determined by titration calorimetry at 21°C and 28°C. At 28°C, the enthalpy change for both type of vesicles was zero within the limits of experimental error. At 21°C, the multilamellar vesicle samples exhibited an enthalpy change of 1.35 ± 0.48 and 2.47 ± 0.98 kcal/mol dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine which was complete at a molar ratio of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine to Triton of 3.21 ± 0.84 and 5.77 ± 1.05 for 0.1% and 0.25% dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine solutions, respectively. An exothermic transition of −2.39 ± 0.30 and −2.05 ± 0.69 kcal/mol phospholipid followed by an endothermic transition of 1.37 ± 0.12 and 1.94 ± 0.20 kcal/mol dimyristoylphosphatidylchlorine was observed at 21°C for 0.1% and 0.25% small unilamellar vesicle samples, respectively. In addition the nearly athermal association of the small unilemellar vesicle samples at 21°C was observed, which may be an appropriate model for biological membrane fusion.
Adsorption and Coagulability of Fibrinogen on Atheromatous Lipid Surfaces

Abstract Fibrinogen, the precursor of the blood clot matrix and a major constituent of atherosclerotic lesions, is shown to adsorb with high affinity to hydrophobic beads coated with cholesteryl oleate, cholesterol, or loosely packed lecithin. The quantity of fibrinogen that binds to cholesterol- or lecithin-coated beads decreases as the surface concentration of the lipid increases; densely packed films of lecithin bind little, if any, of the protein. In sharp contrast, the appreciable quantity of fibrinogen that binds to cholesteryl oleate–coated beads is indifferent to the surface concentration of that lipid. Not unexpectedly, the quantity of fibrinogen that binds to beads coated with mixtures of cholesteryl oleate and lecithin increases with increasing concentration of the cholesteryl ester. When bound, fibrinogen can be converted by thrombin to fibrin and nucleate clot formation as manifested by the aggregation of stirred beads. These results indicate that hydrophobic, atheromatous lipid surfaces, particularly those rich in cholesteryl esters, may be predisposed to thrombosis by virtue of their inherent capacity to bind functional fibrinogen.
Chronostratigraphy and Biostratigraphy

Comments are given on a number of papers dealing with principles and procedure in stratigraphic classification which have appeared in British journals during 1963–65. It is emphasized that a clear distinction should be made between biostratigraphic units—bodies of rock strata characterized by certain palaeontological features and bounded by the limits of known occurrence of such features—and chronostratigraphic units—bodies of rock strata characterized by representing the rocks formed during certain time-spans of earth history and bounded above and below by isochronous surfaces. Biostratigraphic zones and the chronostratigraphic terms chronozone and stage are discussed.
On the non-linear energy transfer in a gravity-wave spectrum. Part 3. Evaluation of the energy flux and swell-sea interaction for a Neumann spectrum

The energy transfer due to non-linear interactions between the components of a gravity-wave spectrum discussed in preceding parts of this paper is evaluated for a fully and partially developed Neumann spectrum with various spreading factors. The characteristic time scales of the energy transfer are found to be typically of the order of a few hours. In all cases the high frequencies and lowfrequency peak are found to gain energy from an intermediate range of frequencies. The transfer of energy to very low frequencies and to waves travelling at large angles to the main propagation direction of the spectrum is negligible. Computations are presented also for the rate of decay of swell interacting with local wind-generated seas (represented by a Newmann spectrum). An appreciable decay is found only for swell frequencies in the same range as those of the local sea. (auth)
Enzymatic deglycosylation converts pathogenic neuromyelitis optica anti–aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G into therapeutic antibody

Objective Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is caused by binding of pathogenic autoantibodies (NMO-IgG) to aquaporin-4 (AQP4) on astrocytes, which initiates complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) and inflammation. We recently introduced mutated antibody (aquaporumab) and small-molecule blocker strategies for therapy of NMO, based on prevention of NMO-IgG binding to AQP4. Here, we investigated an alternative strategy involving neutralization of NMO-IgG effector function by selective IgG heavy-chain deglycosylation with bacteria-derived endoglycosidase S (EndoS).
Severe combined immunodeficiency with natural killer-cell predominance: Abrogation of graft-versus-host disease and immunologic reconstitution with HLA-identical bone marrow cells☆☆☆★

Abstract A 3 1 2 -month-old infant with severe combined immunodeficiency was found to have an unusual blood lymphocyte phenotype. Thirty percent of her cells formed rosettes with shepp erythrocytes but only 7.9% reacted with the pan T monoclonal antibody OKT3, and 5% reacted with an antibody (OKT4)-recognizing T-helper cells. Surprisingly 19.4% of her cells reacted with an antibody (OKT8)-recognizing T-suppressor cells and 94% reacted with OKT10. Few reacted with other monoclonal antibodies detecting cellular activation antigens. Despite absence of T or B cell function, her monocyte-depleted blood lymphocytes caused a high degree of specific lysis of 51Cr-labeled K562 erythromyeloid cells in a natural killer-cell assay. Most of her lymphocytes were large and had azurophilic granules and a monocytoid nucleus. Because she had received a nonirradiated, unrelated red-cell transfusion 3 days earlier, 4.8 × 109 nucleated bone-marrow cells from her HLA-identical brother were given shortly after admission. Two days later a graft-versus-host reaction began but subsided completely within 3 days. On day 15 posttransplantation, a profuse secretory diarrhea began, accompanied by a rise in her serum IgE from 4 to 3000 IU. With engraftment, the number of T10+ cells and natural killer-cell function fell to normal, and full immunologic reconstitution was achieved.
Anger, Aggression, and Irrational Beliefs in Adolescents

This study examined whether a combination of anger, hostility, and irrational beliefs, i.e., intolerance of rules frustration, intolerance of work frustration, demands for fairness, and self-downing would predict physical, verbal, and indirect aggression and peer ratings of aggression. Follow-up analysis tested gender as a moderator of the relations between irrational beliefs and aggression, and anger and aggression. One hundred thirty-five high school-aged adolescents completed measures of irrational beliefs, anger, hostility, and aggression. Results demonstrated that gender, anger, and an irrational belief of intolerance of rules frustration predicted physical aggression, while anger and irrational belief of intolerance of rules frustration uniquely predicted indirect aggression. Anger alone predicted verbal aggression. Males were more likely to report higher rate of physical aggression and were voted to be more aggressive by their peers. However, gender did not moderate the relations between cognition and aggression, and anger and aggression. Treatment and research implications are discussed.
Comparison of Civil Infrastructure Optical-based Spatial Data Acquisition Techniques

Infrastructure spatial data, such as the orientation and the location of in place structures and these structures' boundaries and areas, play a very important role for many civil infrastructure development and rehabilitation applications, such as defect detection, site planning, on-site safety assistance and others. In order to acquire these data, a number of modern optical-based spatial data acquisition techniques can be used. These techniques are based on stereo vision, optics, time of flight, etc., and have distinct characteristics, benefits and limitations. The main purpose of this paper is to compare these infrastructure optical-based spatial data acquisition techniques based on civil infrastructure application requirements. In order to achieve this goal, the benefits and limitations of these techniques were identified. Subsequently, these techniques were compared according to applications' requirements, such as spatial accuracy, the automation of acquisition, the portability of devices and others. With the help of this comparison, unique characteristics of these techniques were identified so that practitioners will be able to select an appropriate technique for their own applications.
The quest for the perfect test: phenotypic versus genotypic identification of coagulase-negative staphylococci associated with bovine mastitis.

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) are a frequent cause of bovine intramammary infection and the objective of this paper is to discuss the utility of phenotypic identification systems used for species identification of CNS relative to use of genotypic identification. Mastitis control programs have been developed for major mastitis pathogens but few are specifically targeted for control of CNS. Few documented differences in treatment outcomes of mastitis caused by different species of CNS have been published, and at least one study has reported no differences in bacterial cures of mastitis caused by CNS based on genotypic identification. A number of commercial identification kits for species identification of CNS have been evaluated by mastitis researchers. Most phenotypic systems are considered to accurately identify >80% of staphylococci but have not been designed to detect all taxa that have been associated with bovine mastitis. Typical results were observed in the evaluation of agreement between 2 systems used for identification of staphylococci (n = 54) isolated from cases of mastitis. Satisfactory agreement (Kappa > 0.87) was achieved for API Staph but low agreement at the species level was seen for the BBL Crystal Gram-Positive system (Kappa = 0.25). Results of this small study are typical of similar studies and confirm that differences occur among phenotypic identification systems. In spite of the limited precision of some phenotypic identification systems, their consistent use with an adequate number of isolates in the diagnostic algorithm is probably sufficient for most mastitis control programs, which are currently not based on species level identification. However, genotypic identification will be useful for advancing knowledge of the role of CNS in bovine mastitis.
Microrefrigeration and the phonon deficit effect

Abstract Recently the use of normal-metal–superconductor tunnel junctions as microrefrigerators has attracted a lot of attention. Wide spread use of these devices for practical refrigeration purposes demands that the crystalline lattice be effectively cooled, i.e., the phonons as well as the electrons must be considered. Thus we discuss the relevance of the earlier described phonon deficit effect to the problem of microrefrigeration. Improved cooling efficiency should result from the utilization of specially designed superlattice-based phonon filters under conditions where the phonon deficit also occurs.
Autoimmune cytopenias in pernicious anemia: a report of four cases and review of the literature.

Abstract: Pernicious anemia appears to be autoimmune in origin and is associated with immune disorders of several organ systems. We report 4 patients with pernicious anemia and immune cytopenias, an association that may sometimes pose diagnostic problems unless specifically considered. Pernicious anemia coexisted with or was closely followed by idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in 3 patients and by autoimmune hemolytic anemia in a 4th patient. In addition to cobalamin therapy, all patients required corticosteroids (2 also received danazol), while 1 also required splenectomy. All 4 patients were women. The 3 patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura were also blood group O and were iron-deficient. Autoimmune cytopenias may occur in patients with treated or untreated pernicious anemia and require specific therapy.
Controlling bacterial adhesion to surfaces using topographical cues: a study of the interaction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with nanofiber-textured surfaces

The state of adhesion of bacteria to nanofiber-textured model surfaces is analyzed at a single-cell level. The results reveal similarities between the effect of topography on bacteria–surface interactions and vesicle–surface interactions. The results are discussed in the context of controlling bacterial adhesion to surfaces using nanofibrous topographical features.
The Response of Viviparous-1 and Wild Type Embryos of Zea mays to Culture in the Presence of Abscisic Acid

Summary Embryos of the viviparous-1 (vp1) mutant of Zea mays do not enter developmental arrest, but germinate precociously, becoming seedlings while still attached to the ear. Studies with excised embryos show that when immature embryos of both vp1 and normal maize are cultured for 7d in the presence of a range of concentrations of abscisic acid (ABA), the mutant expresses a reduced sensitivity to the inhibitory effects of ABA. In addition, length measurements recorded throughout the culture period demonstrate that normal embryos are as competent to germinate precociously as vp1 embryos, and that the differences in sensitivity to ABA arise as a consequence of alterations in both rate of growth and time of germination.
Variations of Flame Retardant, Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon, and Pesticide Concentrations in Chicago’s Atmosphere Measured using Passive Sampling

Atmospheric concentrations of flame retardants, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and pesticides were measured using passive air samplers equipped with polyurethane foam disks to find spatial information in and around Chicago, Illinois. Samplers were deployed around the greater Chicago area for intervals of 6 weeks from 2012 to 2013 (inclusive). Volumes were calculated using passive sampling theory and were based on meteorology and the compounds’ octanol–air partition coefficients. Geometric mean concentrations of total polybrominated diphenyl ethers ranged from 11 to 150 pg/m3, and tributyl phosphate, tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate, tris(1-chloro-2-propyl)phosphate, and triphenyl phosphate concentrations were in the ranges of 54–290, 32–340, 130–580, and 170–580 pg/m3, respectively. The summed concentrations of 16 PAHs ranged from 8700 to 52 000 pg/m3 over the sampling area, and DDT, chlordane, and endosulfan concentrations were in the ranges of 2.7–9.9, 8.2–66, and 16–85 pg/m3, respectively. Sampling site...
A barrel of monkeys: scAAV8 gene therapy for hemophilia in nonhuman primates

In this issue of Molecular Therapy, Nathwani et al. present outstanding nonhuman primate (NHP) experiments1 performed as a prelude to a human trial that has already been hailed as achieving the “holy grail” of hemophilia B gene therapy.2 The aims of the preclinical studies were to determine the safety, efficacy, dose requirements, and immune responses after peripheral intravenous delivery of a self-complementary adeno-associated viral vector (AAV), sc-AAV-LP1-hFIXco, pseudotyped with either AAV8 or AAV5 capsid. These studies describe the treatment and long-term outcome of sc-AAV2/8-LP1-hFIXco gene therapy in one of the largest NHP cohorts studied to date. Because these experiments underlie the first test of an AAV serotype 8 vector in human clinical trials, they have particular relevance not only to hemophilia, but to any disorder that may be treated by liver-directed gene therapy.
Reactivity and Safe Learning in Multi-Agent Systems

Multi-agent reinforcement learning (MRL) is a growing area of research. What makes it particularly challenging is that multiple learners render each other's environments non-stationary. In addition to adapting their behaviors to other learning agents, online learners must also provide assurances about their online performance in order to promote user trust of adaptive agent systems deployed in real world applications. In this article, instead of developing new algorithms with such assurances, we study the question of safety in online performance of some existing MRL algorithms. We identify the key notion of reactivity of a learner by analyzing how an algorithm (PHC-Exploiter), designed to exploit some simpler opponents, can itself be exploited by them. We quantify and analyze this concept of reac tivity in the context of these algorithms to explain their experimental behaviors. We argue that no learner can be designed that can deliberately avoid exploitation. We also show that any attempt to opti mize reactivity must take into account a tradeoff with sensitivity to noise, and devise an adaptive method (based on environmental feedback) designed to maximize the learner's safety and minimize its sensitivity to noise.
Borderline personality disorder features, jealousy, and cyberbullying in adolescence

Abstract Cyberbullying, or aggression through electronic means towards a victim who cannot easily defend themselves, has become increasingly common in society. Researchers have shown that personality disorders and jealousy in close relationships may increase the likelihood that individuals will use aggression against their peers. However, no known research has examined the relationship between personality disorders, jealousy, and cyberbullying behaviors. The current study addresses this gap by examining associations between borderline personality disorder features, jealousy, and cyberbullying behaviors in adolescents. The sample includes 106 adolescents (53 males) with a mean age of 16.1 years (SD = .49), who completed self-report measures of borderline personality features, jealousy, and cyberbullying. Higher levels of borderline personality disorder features were associated with increased levels of cyberbullying behaviors. Jealousy fully mediated the relationship between borderline personality disorder features and cyberbullying behaviors. Limitations, directions for future research, and implications for society, intervention, and treatment are discussed.
On the Use of Resonant Raman Intensities and Bond-Order Calculations to Refine Molecular Force Fields

In this paper a theory is presented for calculating the resonant Raman intensities for all 3N-6 molecular vibrations of a molecule excited by a Π Π* electronic transition using only the known geometry of the molecule, the force constants (i. e. force field) for the internal coordinates and a molecular orbital calculation of all of the C- C and C- N bond orders in the ground and excited electronic states. Criteria are presented for the refining of a force field on the basis of observed and calculated resonant Raman intensities. — The method has been applied to 1-methyl uracil. excited states which occur at 260 nm and 190 nm. The calculated intensities are compared with measured resonant Raman intensities using exciting light at 266 nm, 257 nm, and 212.8 nm. The agreement is satisfactory in that only the observed resonant Raman bands are calculated to have intensity.
A discussion of theoretical ionization equilibrium calculations based on solar flare X-ray spectra

Several sets of ionization equilibrium calculations exist for use in interpreting X-ray and EUV spectra of astrophysical plasmas. In particular, the calculations of Jordan (1969, 1970), Jacobs et al. (1977, 1978) and Summers (1974) are well known. The temperatures of maximum fractional abundance calculated by Summers for the more highly ionized and heavier elements such as iron are about a factor of two higher than the temperatures calculated by Jordan and Jacobs et al. By the use of recently obtained X-ray spectra of solar flares, it is shown that the temperatures calculated by Summers (1974) for iron are incorrect. The temperatures calculated by Jordan or Jacobs et al. should be used until further improvements become available.
Thermal analyses of bulk amorphous oxides and silicates of zirconium and hafnium

Amorphous pure and Y-doped ZrO2 and HfO2 were prepared by precipitation with ammonia or hydrazine. Amorphous zirconium and hafnium silicates with SiO2 content from 10 to 90 mol % were prepared by sol-gel. Crystallization was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at 20 °C/min and crystallite size after crystallization was determined from XRD data. ZrO2 crystallized into the tetragonal phase with ∆H −21 ±2 kJ/mol and HfO2 into the monoclinic phase with ∆H −31 ±2 kJ/mol. Doping with 20 at.% Y decreased crystallite size after crystallization. Crystallization temperatures for pure and Y-doped ZrO2 samples were in the range 420–440 °C. Crystallization temperatures for pure and Y-doped HfO2 samples varied from 470 to 570°C and correlate with surface area. Crystallization onset temperature in silicates increased with silica content from about 650 to 950 °C for ZrO2•SiO2 and from 740 to 1030 °C for HfO2•SiO2. Tetragonal zirconia and hafnia were the only crystalline phases formed below 1100 °C in all zirconium silicates and in hafnium silicates with more than 10 mol% SiO2. Crystallite size after crystallization decreased with increase in silica content. In hafnium silicate, a decrease in HfO2 crystallite size from 5 to 2.5 ±1 nm corresponds to a crystallization enthalpy change from −22 to −15 ±2 kJ/mol. The tetragonal HfO2/amorphous SiO2 interface energy can be calculated from calorimetric data as ~0.25 J/m2. The critical particle size for the tetragonal to monoclinic transformation of HfO2 in HfO2−SiO2 system is about 6 nm. We predict that tetragonal HfO2 will be stabilized in films thinner than 2 nm.
Nonoperative Treatment of Superior Labrum Anterior Posterior Tears: Improvements in Pain, Function, and Quality of Life

Background: Although there are multiple reports documenting successful outcomes with operative treatment of superior labrum anterior posterior (SLAP) tears, there are few reports on the results of nonoperative treatment.Hypothesis: Nonoperative treatment of SLAP tears will result in improved outcomes over pretreatment values using validated, patient-derived outcome instruments.Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods: A total of 371 patients with a diagnosis of labral tear at our institution were mailed a questionnaire that included the following validated, patient-derived outcome assessment instruments: Short Form 36 (SF-36), European Quality of Life measure (EuroQol), visual analog pain scale (VAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and simple shoulder test (SST). Sixty-six surveys did not reach the patients because of incorrect addresses, and 50 surveys were returned, for a 16.4% (50 of 305) response rate. Of the patients with a clinically documented SLAP lesion (positiv...
A Mutated Yeast Strain with Enhanced Ethanol Production Efficiency and Stress Tolerance

One of the strategies to improve and optimize bio-ethanol production from new feed stocks is to develop new strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with tolerance to stresses. The main objectives here were to; generate S. cerevisiae mutants tolerant to high ethanol concentrations; test for their ability to ferment maize starch; and partially characterize the mutations responsible for the new phenotypes. A combination of mutagenesis, selection and cross-stress protection methods were used. EMS (ethyl methanesulfonate) was used to mutagenize one S. cerevisiae strain. The mutagenized yeast strain was exposed to high concentrations of ethanol and tolerant mutants were isolated. Mutants showed improved ethanol yield (0.02-0.03 g/g of maize) and fermentation efficiency (3-5%). Finally, AFLP (Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism) was performed to identify polymorphisms in the mutants that might underlie the strains ethanol tolerance. The best performing mutant isolate had four altered gene transcripts encoding; an arginine uptake and canavanine resistance protein (CAN1); mitochondrial membrane proteins (SLS1); a putative membrane glycoprotein (VTH1); and cytochrome C oxidase (COX6; EC 1.9.3.1) among about 1,000 tested. It was concluded these mutations might underlie the improved ethanol production efficiency and stress tolerance.
Revelations from a single strong-motion record retrieved during the 27 June 1998 Adana (Turkey) earthquake

Abstract During the 27 June 1998 Adana (Turkey) earthquake, only one strong-motion record was retrieved in the region where the most damage occurred. This single record from the station in Ceyhan, approximately 15 km from the epicenter of that earthquake, exhibits characteristics that are related to the dominant frequencies of the ground and structures. The purpose of this paper is to explain the causes of the damage as inferred from both field observations and the characteristics of a single strong-motion record retrieved from the immediate epicentral area. In the town of Ceyhan there was considerable but selective damage to a significant number of mid-rise (7–12 stories high) buildings. The strong-motion record exhibits dominant frequencies that are typically similar for the mid-rise building structures. This is further supported by spectral ratios derived using Nakamura's method [QR of RTRI, 30 (1989) 25] that facilitates computation of a spectral ratio from a single tri-axial record as the ratio of amplitude spectrum of horizontal component to that of the vertical component [ R = H ( f )/ V ( f )]. The correlation between the damage and the characteristics exhibited from the single strong-motion record is remarkable. Although deficient construction practices played a significant role in the extent of damage to the mid-rise buildings, it is clear that site resonance also contributed to the detrimental fate of most of the mid-rise buildings. Therefore, even a single record can be useful to explain the effect of site resonance on building response and performance. Such information can be very useful for developing zonation criteria in similar alluvial valleys.
Risk assessment of a new high speed railway

A quantitative risk assessment has been carried out by W. S. Atkins Ltd. and Kennedy and Donkin Transportation Ltd. for the conceptual stage of the proposed Channel Tunnel Rail Link. The assessment is one of the first for a railway system. It includes an integrated computer model. The whole risk model for the CTRL from base event data, through fault and event trees, to individual, collective and societal risks is processed using Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheets. Variations to the design and operational assumptions and to the input data can be introduced into the model and the effect on risk calculated rapidly. This versatility is particularly useful because of the early stage of the project. It can be used to assist designers in consideration of possible design changes.
Severe Hypophosphatemia in a 79-Year-Old Man

A 79-year-old white man with a history of progressive bone pain was admitted for evaluation 3 years ago. The patient reported that the pain began in both feet and gradually spread to the rest of the body over a 2-year period. Further assessment revealed multiple stress fractures in the feet. Bone mineral density test indicated osteopenia. Serial bone mineral density tests during the 2 years showed that his osteopenia was progressing. Results of several serum protein electrophoreses were essentially normal. His medical history, which included surgical removal of a cerebral aneurysm near the sella turcica and bacterial meningitis, suggested no pertinent etiologic factors. Physical examination revealed no clinically significant findings except unsteady gait. His serum phosphate concentrations declined from 2.5 to 1.8 mg/dL over the 2 years before admission. Laboratory test results at the time of admission are summarized in Table 1. The patient's phosphate concentration reached a nadir of 1.2 mg/dL at admission. His serum alkaline phosphatase was increased. Other notable abnormalities included low normal calcium, normal to borderline high parathyroid hormone (PTH),2 and increased 24-h urine phosphate and calcium excretion. Other routine biochemical parameters [including ionized calcium, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and free thyroxine (T4)] were normal. The patient underwent a whole-body scan showing multiple bone lesions. Diagnostic imaging studies including x-ray, a computer axial tomography (CAT), and MRI of the lungs, abdomen, and pelvis were reported to be normal at admission. View this table: Table 1. Patient's laboratory results at time of admission. Based on the above findings, the patient was diagnosed with osteomalacia secondary to hypophosphatemia. He was then treated with several medications, including bisphosphonates, calcitriol, vitamin D, and calcium and phosphorus supplements. Vitamin D was given because his initial calcium and phosphate concentrations were low, and it was discontinued later following improvement of serum calcium concentrations. Despite substantial phosphorus replacement (250 mg phosphorus per tablet, 2 …
Near-Shannon-limit quasi-cyclic low-density parity-check codes

This letter presents two classes of quasi-cyclic low-density parity-check codes that perform close to the Shannon limit.
Performance of multilayer neural networks in binary-to-binary mappings under weight errors

The probability of misclassification error of a multilayer neural network used in binary-to-binary mappings is derived. The connection weights, determined through training, are assumed to be subject to an additive, random, normally distributed error. The probability of misclassification is derived through simulation. The simulation results and the theoretical results are shown to match very closely. The results give predictability to neural network performance and allow for changing neural network design parameters, such as weight vectors and number of nodes, in order to obtain a certain tolerance to weight errors. >
Production of Syngas by Direct Catalytic Oxidation of Methane

The reaction between methane and oxygen over platinum and rhodium surfaces in metalcoated ceramic monoliths can be made to produce mostly hydrogen and carbon monoxide (greater than 90% selectivity for both) with almost complete conversion of methane and oxygen at reaction times as short as 10–3 seconds. This process has great promise for conversion of abundant natural gas into liquid products such as methanol and hydrocarbons, which can be easily transported from remote locations. Rhodium was considerably superior to platinum in producing more H2 and less H2O, which can be explained by the known chemistry and kinetics of reactants, intermediates, and products on these surfaces.
Optimizing glenoid component position using three-dimensional computed tomography reconstruction

Glenoid implant design and alignment are critical to the success of shoulder arthroplasty. Computer-aided design models of 3 glenoid implant designs (keel, standard pegs, and modified pegs) were virtually implanted into 3-dimensional computed tomography–reconstructed models of 40 normal scapulae. The incidence of perforation on 3-dimensional computed tomography preoperative templating varied from 8% to 18% for the 3 models. Malalignment of the implants in retroversion was better tolerated than anteversion and varied with implant design. Tolerance for medialization of the implant to correct for glenoid wear was limited (range, 0°-18°) and varied with implant design. The modified peg design had the lowest incidence of perforation, the greatest tolerance for malalignment, and the ability to correct for glenoid wear effects. These results emphasize the need for accurate preoperative templating and for developing alignment guides or surgical navigation tools for shoulder arthroplasty and may be used to improve implant fixation designs.
Analytical Bootstrap Methods for Censored Data

Analytic bootstrap estimators for the moments of survival quantities are derived. By using these expressions recommendations can be made as to the appropri- ateness of bootstrap estimation under censored data conditions.
Rumination, anxiety sensitivity, and negative reinforcement drinking

Objective: Prior research has established anxiety sensitivity (AS, essentially fear of anxiety) as an individual difference variable conveying risk for alcohol abuse and specifically negative reinforcement drinking (NRD). This study sought to replicate and extend that finding, examining the role of rumination (related to the cognitive dyscontrol aspect of anxiety sensitivity) in mediating this association.Method: Seventy-three women and 40 men collegiate drinkers completed several questionnaire measures assessing anxiety sensitivity and negative reinforcement drinking, including an adapted measure of anxiety rumination.Results: Findings indicated a moderate relationship (R2 = 0.21) between anxiety sensitivity components and NRD with regression analyses showing that cognitive dyscontrol and anxiety rumination were most strongly associated with NRD. As predicted, anxiety rumination fully statistically mediated (s = 0.50) the relationship between AS and NRD.Conclusions: Rumination, conceptualized as a malada...
Allowable spectral perturbations of ZME-matrices☆☆☆

A ZME-matrix is a matrix A all of whose positive integer powers are Z-matrices, and whose odd powers are irreducible. We find a combinatorial partial order on the spectral idempotents of a ZME-matrix A which determines the allowable spectral perturbations B for which B is again a ZME-matrix. We apply this result to show that under certain restrictions, the product of two ZME-matrices is a ZME-matrix.
A General Theory of Commutated Networks

A state-space approach is used to derive an exact closed-form solution for the steady-state and transient response of a general commutated network terminated in a multiport. By expanding the time-varying transfer function N(p, t) in a Fourier series, the transfer function at input frequency N_{0}(p) , and the transfer functions at harmonic frequencies N_{m}(p) are then calculated. A necessary and sufficient condition for the recovery of the input signal, without distortion due to the harmonics, is given. From the general analysis, we immediately obtain previously available results on comb filters, n -path filters, sample-data filters, etc., as special cases. The resulting closed-form solutions in terms of element values are most suitable for computer simulation in which the performance of the commutated network is to be evaluated as the element values are varied.
Fuel-Insulation Tradeoffs for Arkansas Broiler Houses

Production of broilers requires very large quantities of heating energy. Optimum growth of broilers requires that the broiler house temperature be maintained within a narrow range. In Arkansas, chicks are normally started at a house temperature of 75°F with a 3°F per week reduction until a temperature of no less than 60° F is reached and maintained. Feed represents about sixty percent of total production cost, and most studies indicate that feed consumption increases rapidly as the temperature around the birds drops below 65° F. Most grower contracts contain an efficiency clause in which part of their payment depends on how efficient they are in converting feed to meat. They must maintain a certain minimum degree of efficiency to continue growing for their contractor. House temperatures can thus be lowered somewhat, but must be maintained within rather narrow limits for growers to continue to produce. This is mentioned to point out just how vulnerable growers are to rising fuel prices. Approximately 80 percent of Arkansas broiler growers use propane. The retail price of propane ranged from $0.18 to $0.41 per gallon in Arkansas from January 1973, to September 1977.
The role of ineffective erythropoiesis in non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia

Ineffective erythropoiesis is the hallmark of beta-thalassemia that triggers a cascade of compensatory mechanisms resulting in clinical sequelae such as erythroid marrow expansion, extramedullary hematopoiesis, splenomegaly, and increased gastrointestinal iron absorption. Recent studies have begun to shed light on the complex molecular mechanisms underlying ineffective erythropoiesis and the associated compensatory pathways; this new understanding may lead to the development of novel therapies. Increased or excessive activation of the Jak2/STAT5 pathway promotes unnecessary disproportionate proliferation of erythroid progenitors, while other factors suppress serum hepcidin levels leading to dysregulation of iron metabolism. Preclinical studies suggest that Jak inhibitors, hepcidin agonists, and exogenous transferrin may help to restore normal erythropoiesis and iron metabolism and reduce splenomegaly; however, further research is needed.
Optical coherence tomography-based decision making in exudative age-related macular degeneration: comparison of time- vs spectral-domain devices

To determine whether optical coherence tomography (OCT) device-type influences clinical grading of OCT imaging in the context of exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Ninety-six paired OCT scans from 49 patients with active exudative AMD were obtained on both the time-domain Stratus OCT system and the spectral-domain Cirrus OCT system at the same visit. Three independent graders judged each scan for the presence of intraretinal fluid (IRF) or subretinal fluid (SRF). The degree of grader consensus was evaluated and the ability of the systems to detect the presence of disease activity was analysed. Cirrus OCT generated a higher degree of inter-grader consensus than Stratus OCT with higher intraclass correlation coefficients for all parameters analysed. A pair-wise comparison of Cirrus OCT with Stratus OCT systems revealed that Cirrus-based gradings more frequently reported the presence of SRF and IRF and detected overall neovascular activity at a higher rate (P<0.05) compared with Stratus-based gradings. The choice of time-domain (Stratus) vsspectra-domain (Cirrus) OCT systems has a measurable impact on clinical decision making in exudative AMD. Spectral-domain OCT systems may be able to generate more consensus in clinical interpretation and, in particular cases, detect disease activity not detected by time-domain systems. Clinical trials using OCT-based clinical evaluations of exudative AMD may need to account for these inter-system differences in planning and analysis.
Multispectral image feature selection for land mine detection

The authors' system uses a camera that acquires registered images in six spectral bands and a supervised-learning algorithm to detect metal and plastic land mines. Results show that even with a small sample size, the detection performance is good and holds promise for future work with larger data sets.
Silicon‐29 Magic Angle Spinning Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Study of Calcium Silicate Hydrates

The reaction products formed in a series of fully “equilibrated,” roomtemperature-hydrated, fumed colloidal silica plus lime water mixtures were examined using 29Si magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance. The data suggest that two structurally distinct calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) phases exist in the system CaO–SiO2–H2O. The more silica-rich C-S-H (Ca/Si = 0.65 to 1.0) consists predominantly of long chains of silica tetrahedra (Q2 middle units) similar to those found in 1.4-nm tobermorite. The studied more lime-rich C-S-H (Ca / Si = 1.1 to 1.3) consists of a mixture of dimer (Q1) and shorter chains (Q1 end units and Q2 middle units) similar to that reported for synthetic jennite. No monomer units (Q0) were detected.
Necessary and sufficient conditions for a maximal ergodic theorem along subsequences

Let T be an ergodic measure preserving point transformation from a probability space X onto itself. Assume that is an increasing sequence of subsets of the positive integers. Conditions are given which are sufficient for the ergodic maximal function associated with these subsets to be weak type (p, p). These conditions are shown to be both necessary and sufficient for a larger two-sided maximal function. The conditions are in the form of covering lemmas for the integers.
A new cell line for high throughput HIV-specific antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and cell-to-cell virus transmission studies

Several lines of evidence indicate that antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (Wren et al., 2013) is important in the pathogenesis of HIV-1 infection. Namely, ADCC is induced during natural HIV-1 infection or in HIV-1 vaccine studies, the latter demonstrated by the RV144 vaccine trial. To expedite the assessment of ADCC in studies of HIV, we have developed a high throughput assay. We have optimized the rapid fluorometric antibody-mediated cytotoxicity assay (RFADCC) by transfecting the EGFP-CEM-NKr cell line to constitutively express SNAP-tagged CCR5. This cell line can then serve as a source of HIV-specific targets when coated with monomeric gp120, spinoculated with inactivated intact virions, infected by cell-free viral diffusion or infected by cell-to-cell transmission of virus. The optimized strategy has two significant advantages over the original RFADCC method: First, the preparation of detectable target cells is less labor intensive and faster as it does not rely on multiple staining and washing steps for target cells. Second, because the target cell markers GFP and SNAP are constitutively expressed, the assay provides highly reproducible data. These strengths make the optimized RFADCC assay suitable not only for studies of HIV-1 specific cytotoxicity but also for studies of cell–cell transmission of virus. In conclusion, this assay provides a new generation T cell line that can expedite large clinical studies as well as research studies in humans or non-human primates.
Pseudomorphic Growth of Fcc FeMn Thin Film on NiFe and its Interfacial Structure

Thin film couple of NiFe/FeMn has been used in the magnetoresistive read head design in the magnetic recording industry. The strong magnetic coupling between FeMn and NiFe is of most importance in providing the stability of the MR head. FeMn has been shown to grow epitaxially on NiFe surface and form a metastable fcc structure. The existence of this fcc structure is believed to be the source of the magnetic coupling. It has also been shown that the grain to grain epitaxy exists in this polycrystalline thin film couple, however with only indirect evidence such as Moire fringes across the interface boundary. To further study this pseudomorphic growth phenomenon, a specially prepared large grain FeMn/NiFe thin film couple was used. Lattice imaging of the interfacial structure was obtained by high resolution cross-section transmission electron microscopy. The plan-view TEM imaging and electron dilfraction patterns also show clear evidence of the grain to grain epitaxy in almost all the grains. The epitaxial strain associated with each coupled grain was also evidenced by the isolated strain contours within each grain. Detailed interfacial structure analysis will be given to elucidate the mechanism(s) by which the interfacial strain is accommodated.
Evaluation of a radioiodine plume increasing in concentration at the Savannah River Site.

Field and laboratory studies were carried out to understand the cause for steady increases in 129I concentrations emanating from radiological basins located on the Savannah River Site, South Carolina. The basins were closed in 1988 by adding limestone and slag and then capping with a low permeability engineered cover. Groundwater 129I concentrations in a well near the basins in 1993 were 200 pCi L−1 and are presently between 400 and 1000 pCi L−1. Iodine speciation in the plume contained wide ranges of iodide, iodate, and organo-iodine concentrations. First-order calculations based on a basin sediment desorption study indicate that the modest increase of 0.7 pH units detected in the study site groundwater over the last 17 years since closure of the basins may be sufficient to produce the observed increased groundwater 129I concentrations near the basins. Groundwater monitoring of the plume at the basins has shown that the migration of many of the high risk radionuclides originally present at this complex s...
Composition of lipid foams from swim bladders of two deep ocean fish species.

Lipid-containing deposits within the swim bladders of Coryphaenoides amolepis and Antimora rostrata were investigated. Lipid analysis of this material, which was quite uniform from the two species, yielded the following data : neutral lipids, 36.0-41.7%; phospholipids, 53.6-56.7%; and glycolipids, 4.3-8.9y0. Cholesterol (mainly in the free form) constituted 60.4%-77.8a/, of the neutral lipids. Sphingomyelin and phosphatidylcholine were the principal phospholipids, with sphingomyelin highest in the material from C. acrolepis and phosphatidylcholine predominant in that from A. rostrata. The overall pattern of lipids shows a resemblance to that of plasma membrane, particularly in the relatively high levels of free cholesterol, sphingomyelin, and phosphatidylserine. The lipid- to-protein ratio of the material is approximately 1.5-2 to 1. The lipids of the fine inner lining (tunica interna) of the swim bladder from a shallow water fish, the kelp bass (Paralabrax clathratus), had essentially the same composition as the much more abundant swim bladder material from the deep ocean fishes.
Evaluation of CT in diagnosis of neomatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy

[ Objective ] To investigate the evaluation of CT in diagnosis of neomatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. [Methods] 110 cases of asphyxial perinatal neonates were selected, and HIE was graded in mild, moderate and severe degree by CT standard. [Results]In the 110 HIE cases,mild degree was 58 (53% ) ,moderate degree was 38 (34% ) and severe degree was 14 cases (13% ). A good consistency was obtained between CT and clinical grade. [Conclusion ]CT is accurate and effective method for HIE grading and provides important information for clinical treatment.
The role of bronchoalveolar lavage in the immunocompromised host

Bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a frequently performed, minimally invasive endoscopic examination in patients with unclear infiltrates or pulmonary infections. It can be performed safely in patients with compromised immune systems of different etiologies. This article summarizes the experience with and efficacy of BAL in different disease states in this clinical circumstance. Because human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related diseases and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients show different characteristics when compared with patients with other reasons for immunosuppression, they are discussed separately. Clinical algorithms are presented.
Fundamentals of Optical Detectors

The photodetection devices used in biophotonics disciplines are semiconductor-based pin and avalanche photodiodes, photomultiplier tubes, and optical detector arrays. The photodetectors can be either single-channel elements or multichannel devices. With a single-channel element only one spectral channel in a biophotonics setup can be monitored at any instance in time. However, multichannel devices can measure multiple spectral channels simultaneously or observe spatial channels individually in different time sequences. Associated with photodetection setups is the need for optical filters, optical couplers, and optical circulators. Optical filters selectively transmit light in one or more specific bands of wavelengths. Optical couplers split or combine two or more light streams, tap off a small portion of optical power for monitoring purposes, or transfer a selective range of optical power. An optical circulator is a non-reciprocal multi-port device that directs light sequentially from port to port in only one direction.
Chapter 13 – Chi-Squared Goodness-of-Fit Tests

We consider a population in which each member has any one of k possible values. We show how to test the hypothesis that a specified set of probabilities represents the proportions of the members of the population that have each of the different possible values. We consider populations in which each member is classified as having two values, and we show how to test the hypothesis that the two values of a randomly selected member of the population are independent.