cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Neighborhood Auditing Tool: A hybrid interface for auditing the UMLS

The UMLS's integration of more than 100 source vocabularies, not necessarily consistent with one another, causes some inconsistencies. The purpose of auditing the UMLS is to detect such inconsistencies and to suggest how to resolve them while observing the requirement of fully representing the content of each source in the UMLS. A software tool, called the Neighborhood Auditing Tool (NAT), that facilitates UMLS auditing is presented. The NAT supports ''neighborhood-based'' auditing, where, at any given time, an auditor concentrates on a single-focus concept and one of a variety of neighborhoods of its closely related concepts. Typical diagrammatic displays of concept networks have a number of shortcomings, so the NAT utilizes a hybrid diagram/text interface that features stylized neighborhood views which retain some of the best features of both the diagrammatic layouts and text windows while avoiding the shortcomings. The NAT allows an auditor to display knowledge from both the Metathesaurus (concept) level and the Semantic Network (semantic type) level. Various additional features of the NAT that support the auditing process are described. The usefulness of the NAT is demonstrated through a group of case studies. Its impact is tested with a study involving a select group of auditors.
Far-infrared/submillimeter imager-polarimeter using distributed antenna-coupled transition edge sensors

We describe a new concept for a detector for the submillimeter and far infrared that uses a distributed hot– electron transition edge sensor (TES) to collect the power from a focal–plane–filling slot antenna array. Because superconducting transmission lines are lossy at frequencies greater than about 1 Thz, the sensors must directly tap the antenna, and therefore must match the antenna impedance (∼ 30 ohms). Each pixel contains many TESs that are all wired in parallel as a single distributed TES, which results in a low impedance that can match to a multiplexed SQUID readout. These detectors are inherently polarization sensitive, with very low cross–polarization, but can also be easily configured to sum both polarizations for imaging applications. The single polarization version can have a very wide bandwidth of greater than 10:1 with a quantum efficiency greater than 50%. The dual polarization version is narrow band, but can have a higher quantum efficiency. The use of electron-phonon decoupling obviates the need for micro–machining, making the focal plane much easier to fabricate than with absorber–coupled, geometrically isolated pixels. An array of these detectors would be suitable for an imager for the Single Aperture Far Infrared (SAFIR) observatory. We consider two near–term applications of this technology, a 32 × 32 element imaging polarimeter for SOFIA and a 350µm camera for the CSO.
Gating of the auditory evoked potential in children and adults.

Auditory evoked potentials were recorded from 163 subjects, aged IS months to 55 years. A conditioning-testing paradigm was used to assess sensory gating. In this paradigm, click stimuli are presented in pairs to the subjects with a 0.5-second intrapair interval. In normal adults, the first stimulus activates or “conditions” sensory gating mechanisms. The strength of these mechanisms is “tested” by the second stimulus, which produces a response whose amplitude is significantly suppressed. This aspect of sensory gating was not reliably observed in our subjects until age 18 years. Younger subjects varied widely in their ability to demonstrate sensory gating. Mean levels of suppression increased during late childhood and adolescence, with no relationship to other changes in evoked potential amplitude and latency. Sensory gating would appear to be a late developing aspect of human sensory physiology.
Perceptions of reliances placed on data transmission control measures: Global versus domestic-only private network usage

Abstract This study focuses on the transmission of organizational information over data communication networks. The study examines whether US firms whose private network features extend beyond US borders rely more on specific data communication control measures than do firms that either do not use private network features or use them for domestic operations only. The use of these control measures are important because of the implications to the risk in transmitting strategic corporate information over data communications networks and the increased risk when the data communications function of a firm extends globally. The results of the survey when considered with prior research regarding global multinational corporate control and global information systems practices conclude that organizations may be exercising enhanced controls over transborder data flow, but they could be doing even more. This paper offers important information for corporate officials who are dependent on efficient, reliable and secure international information flow across the organization structure. The study also offers directions for further research into the phenomena.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol applied to rice

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol has been set up with an antiserum preparation raised against a bovine serum albumin - 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol hemiglutarate conjugate. The assay is an indirect, double antibody immunoassay performed on microtitration plates, and is sensitive (with a limit of detection of 1 pg per well) and specific. The assay has been validated for application to rice with a sensitivity of 1 ng g-1. Sample extraction is a simple solubilisation procedure. The immunoassay described has a number of advantages over conventional methods of analysis.
Approaching the Contemporary German Lyric: A Selected, Annotated Bibliography

It would be of interest to follow up various aspects of this study particularly in regard to the class materials. Texts are beginning to appear which are more linguistically oriented than in the past. To what extent will they be accepted and what coordinate changes will they bring about in the presentation of the language and in the attitude of the instructors toward linguistics? Also, as more teachers take advantage of NDEA summer institutes where the study of linguistics is stressed, one can expect continuing changes in the profession of language teachinga d in the content of teacher training courses for the preparation of more professional language teachers. There is no information on credit-hours in
Root growth dynamics of a rice cultivar grown at two locations

(...) Root growth was most rapid during vegetative growth at both locations, with maximum root length occurring at panicle initiation. Root lengths either plateaued or declined during reproductive growth. Root lengths were greater on the Captina soil than on the Crowley soil. The pattern of root length densities (RLD) was similar between soils; however, RLDs were generally lower on the Crowley soil (...)
Ductile mode material removal and high-pressure phase transformation in silicon during micro-laser assisted machining

Abstract Micro-laser assisted machining is a novel micro/nano machining technique developed for ductile mode machining of ceramics and semiconductors. Ductile mode material removal is possible in a nominally brittle material due to the high-pressure phase transformation (HPPT) phenomenon during the machining process. This paper investigates the mechanism of machining by analyzing the HPPTs under different scratch conditions, with and without laser heating. Micro-Raman (μ-Raman) spectroscopy studies of the nano-scratched regions provided evidence for HPPT in single crystal Silicon (Si). Annealing of the high-pressure phases into a recrystallized diamond structure (Si-I) at higher laser powers and its effect on machining characteristics is also discussed. This has been the first time that HPPT is reported in the material removed region where the material's phase transformation and laser heating occur simultaneously and instantaneously (the annealing process occurs instantaneously and is not time dependent in this case).
Dispersal in compact semimodules

A semigroup is a nonvoid Hausdorff space together with a continuous associative operation. A semiring is a nonvoid Hausdorff space together with a couple of continuous associative operations, one of which (usually denoted as multiplication) distributes over the other (usually denoted as addition). If R is a semiring then an R-semimodule is a semigroup M under addition together with a continuous operation R × M → M which satisfies the associativity and distributivity conditions usually stipulated in the instance of an R-module. It is purpose of this paper to establish for semimodules certain propositions proved by Kaplansky [4], Pearson [8], Selden [9], Beidleman-Cox [1] and others.
Statistical Variability of Dispersion in the Convective Boundary Layer: Ensembles of Simulations and Observations

A Lagrangian particle dispersion model (LPDM) driven by velocity fields from large-eddy simulations (LESs) is used to determine the mean and variability of plume dispersion in a highly convective planetary boundary layer (PBL). The total velocity of a “particle” is divided into resolved and unresolved or random (subfilter scale, SFS) velocities with the resolved component obtained from the LES and the SFS velocity from a Lagrangian stochastic model. This LPDM-LES model is used to obtain an ensemble of dispersion realizations for calculating the mean, root-mean-square (r.m.s.) deviation, and fluctuating fields of dispersion quantities. An ensemble of 30 realizations is generated for each of three source heights: surface, near-surface, and elevated. We compare the LPDM calculations with convection tank experiments and field observations to assess the realism of the results. The overall conclusion is that the LPDM-LES model produces a realistic range of dispersion realizations and statistical variability (i.e., r.m.s. deviations) that match observations in this highly convective PBL, while also matching the ensemble-mean properties. This is true for the plume height or trajectory, vertical dispersion, and the surface values of the crosswind-integrated concentration (CWIC), and their dependence on downstream distance. One exception is the crosswind dispersion for an elevated source, which is underestimated by the model. Other analyses that highlight important LPDM results include: (1) the plume meander and CWIC fluctuation intensity at the surface, (2) the applicability of a similarity theory for plume height from a surface source to only the very strong updraft plumes—not the mean height, and (3) the appropriate variation with distance of the mean surface CWIC and the lower bound of the CWIC realizations for a surface source.
Resolvin D1 binds human phagocytes with evidence for proresolving receptors

Endogenous mechanisms that act in the resolution of acute inflammation are essential for host defense and the return to homeostasis. Resolvin D1 (RvD1), biosynthesized during resolution, displays potent and stereoselective anti-inflammatory actions, such as limiting neutrophil infiltration and proresolving actions. Here, we demonstrate that RvD1 actions on human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) are pertussis toxin sensitive, decrease actin polymerization, and block LTB4-regulated adhesion molecules (β2 integrins). Synthetic [3H]-RvD1 was prepared, which revealed specific RvD1 recognition sites on human leukocytes. Screening systems to identify receptors for RvD1 gave two candidates—ALX, a lipoxin A4 receptor, and GPR32, an orphan—that were confirmed using a β-arrestin-based ligand receptor system. Nuclear receptors including retinoid X receptor-α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α, -δ, -γ were not activated by either resolvin E1 or RvD1 at bioactive nanomolar concentrations. RvD1 enhanced macrophage phagocytosis of zymosan and apoptotic PMNs, which increased with overexpression of human ALX and GPR32 and decreased with selective knockdown of these G-protein-coupled receptors. Also, ALX and GPR32 surface expression in human monocytes was up-regulated by zymosan and granulocyte-monocyte–colony-stimulating factor. These results indicate that RvD1 specifically interacts with both ALX and GPR32 on phagocytes and suggest that each plays a role in resolving acute inflammation.
On the Nonlocality of Reversible-Time Particle Tracking Methods

This article presents a novel methodology for time reversal in groundwater transport simulations. A variance minimization procedure leads to a stochastic method, analogous to the Random Walk Particle Tracking Method (RWPTM), capable of tracking groundwater solute concentration profiles over time. This method, called the Reversible-Time Particle Tracking Method (RTPTM), can backtrack in time a certain solute plume, of arbitrary shape, and identify the most probable spill location. The correspondence to the "classical" RWPTM is established for forward-time simulations, and the method is applied to one-dimensional transport of both conservative and nonconservative solutes in spatially invariant and variant groundwater flow fields with great success.
U.S. Investment and Immigration from the Caribbean

Immigration from countries in the Caribbean area to the United States has recently received considerable attention. However, researchers have been reluctant to apply rigorous statistical analysis to the available data in order to determine the relative importance of factors which allegedly contribute to increased immigration from the area. In this study, I use multivariate analysis of data for a sample of 18 countries to examine the relationship between growth in U.S. direct investment in Caribbean countries and immigration from the area during the 1970s. The results indicate countries which received more U.S. direct investment had higher rates of immigration after other important factors were controlled. I conclude by discussing the implications of this finding for economic policy in the Caribbean Basin.
Vaccination with Adenovirus Serotypes 35, 26, and 48 Elicits Higher Levels of Innate Cytokine Responses than Adenovirus Serotype 5 in Rhesus Monkeys

Adenovirus (Ad) vaccine vectors have proven highly immunogenic in multiple experimental models, but the innate immune responses induced by these vectors remain poorly characterized. Here we report innate cytokine responses to 5 different Ad vectors in 26 rhesus monkeys. Vaccination with adenovirus serotype 35 (Ad35), Ad26, and Ad48 induced substantially higher levels of antiviral (gamma interferon [IFN-γ], 10-kDa gamma interferon-induced protein [IP-10]) and proinflammatory (interleukin 1 receptor antagonist [IL-1RA], IL-6) cytokines than vaccination with Ad5 on day 1 following immunization. In vitro studies with capsid chimeric vectors and receptor-blocking monoclonal antibodies suggested that fiber-receptor interactions, as well as other capsid components, were critical for triggering these innate responses. Moreover, multiple cell populations, including dendritic cells, monocytes/macrophages, and T lymphocytes, contributed to these innate cytokine profiles. These data demonstrate that Ad35, Ad26, and Ad48, which utilize CD46 as their primary cellular receptor, induce significantly greater innate cytokine responses than Ad5, which uses the coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR). These differences in innate triggering result in markedly different immunologic milieus for the subsequent generation of adaptive immune responses by these vaccine vectors.
Measuring the international distribution of power

(1993). Measuring the international distribution of power. International Review of Sociology: Vol. 4, No. 1-2, pp. 263-282.
Renal tubular sodium reabsorption and oxygen consumption in the hypothyroid dog

The degree to which an insufficiency of thyroid hormone (TH) affects renal tubular sodium reabsorption (RNa) and oxygen consumption (QO2) in vivo, was investigated in a mature mammalian kidney. The results suggest that TH influences renal QO2 as a result of alterations in renal hemodynamics and the renal tubular handling of sodium. Changes in GFR played a major role in the regulation of RNa and QO2. This is suggested by the comparison of hypothyroid animals with and without renal compensatory hypertrophy. In the latter group a twofold lower GFR was associated with parallel changes in RNa and QO2. However, in going from euthyroid (E) to hypothyroid (H) conditions, the decrease in RNa of 31 ± 4% was greater than the reduction in GFR of 25 ± 3% (p < .05). Thus, a decrease in RNa of 6 ± 2% under hypothyroid conditions could not be attributed to the changes in GFR. The normal renal stoichiometry between RNa and QO2 in hypothyroid animals indicates that the above changes in RNa were accompanied by comparable changes in QO2. The decrease in RNa in hypothyroid animals was not associated with a significant change in kidney weight (E:48.2 ± 4.0gm., n = 5 and H:45.4 ± 1.4gm, n = 5; pN.S.) The results suggest that an adaptive response to changes in GFR is the predominant cause of the decrease in RNa and renal QO2 under hypothyroid conditions. A modest reduction in renal tubular sodium reabsorptive capacity in hypothyroid animals is probably secondary to a direct effect of TH on active sodium transport.
Role of membrane potential and calcium in chemotactic sensing by bacteria

Abstract Changes in Escherichia coli membrane potential in response to a wide variety of chemotactic stimuli were measured using a permeant, lipophilic cation (tetraphenylphosphonium chloride) and a fluorescent dye (3-propyl-2-(5-(3-propyl-2(3H)-benzothiazolylidene)-1,3-pentadienyl)iodide). Some attractants and repellants caused permanent, monotonic depolarizations or hyperpolarizations. Not all chemoeffectors, however, produced potential changes, and the direction of change did not correlate with physiological responses to these compounds. Moreover, changes were observed in a number of chemotactic mutants. From these results, we conclude that perturbations in membrane potential effected by chemical stimuli are not related to chemotactic sensing. These findings, and the close correlation between cytoplasmic ionic conditions and membrane potential, led us to examine the role of calcium in chemotaxis. By growing cells in the presence of a calcium chelator, we were able to lower cellular calcium levels over tenfold, with no change in behavior. These results indicate that sensory transduction in these cells is not mediated by this cation.
Reducing the latency of a real-time garbage collector

This paper shows how to make the latency of scanning a page in the Appel-Ellis-Li real-time garbage collector be proportional only to the number of object references on a page (the page size), instead of to the sum of the sizes of the objects referenced by the page. This makes the garbage collection algorithm much more suitable for real-time systems.
Experimental Investigation and Fracture Analysis of Debonding between Concrete and FRP Sheets

The last few years have witnessed a wide use of externally bonded fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets for strengthening existing reinforced and prestressed concrete structures. The success of this strengthening method relies on the effectiveness of the load-transfer between the concrete and the FRP. Understanding the stress transfer and the failure of the concrete–FRP interface is essential for assessing the structural performance of strengthened beams and for evaluating the strength gain. This paper describes an experimental investigation of the interfacial bond behavior between concrete and FRP. The strain distributions in concrete and FRP are determined using an optical technique known as digital image correlation. The results confirm that the debonding process can be described in terms of crack propagation through the interface between concrete and FRP. The data obtained from the analysis of digital images was used to determine the interfacial material behavior for the concrete–FRP interface (stress...
Methylation of the guanine bases of transfer RNA.

Summary The extent of methylation of the guanine bases of tRNA was assessed by labeling KB cells with [2- 14 C]-guanosine under a variety of pulse and pulse-chase conditions. Approximately 95% of the radioactivity incorporated into tRNA was recovered and identified as [2- 14 C]-guanine and 1-, 7-, N 2 - and N 2 N 2 -methyl-[2- 14 C]-guanine. Analysis of the distribution of these constituents under long-pulse and pulse-chase conditions revealed that a maximum of 9.6% of the guanine bases of tRNA became methylated. As reflected by short pulses, the formation of N 2 -methylguanine occurred predominantly at a later stage of tRNA maturation than did 1-, 7- and N 2 N 2 -methylguanine.
Biotin binding assay utilizing avidin—peroxidase conjugate and iminobiotin immobilized on polystyrene beads

Abstract A solid-phase assay for biotin was developed based on the difference in the dissociation constants of avidin—biotin (ca. 10 −15 M) and avidin—iminobiotin (ca. 10 −8 M) at pH 9.5. In this assay, avidin—peroxidase conjugates (AvP) were dissociated from AvP-immobilized iminobiotin complexes by the competitive binding of biotin, which has a higher affinity than iminobiotin for avidin. The extent of AvP dissociation which is dependent on the concentration of biotin, was determined by monitoring the activity of peroxidase enzyme conjugated to avidin. The beads could be reused following treatment with acetate buffer (pH 4.5) because the dissociation constant of iminobiotin is pH dependent. The detection limit for the assay was in the nanomolar range while the relative standard deviation for ten replicate assays of 0.1 μM biotin was 4.93% ( n = 10).
Minimally Invasive Surgical Treatment Options for Lumbar Disc Herniations and Stenosis

At our institution decompression through tubular retractors has become the preferred approach for the treatment of a variety of degenerative spinal disorders, including lumbar stenosis, disk herniations, foraminal narrowing, and facet joint cysts in up to 2 levels. More complex procedures, such as spinal fusions and deformity corrections, also are routinely performed. Spinal surgery through tubular retractors offers particular advantages in these conditions and is especially suited for surgery in high-risk patients, such as obese and the elderly patients.
A metabolically stable tight-binding transition-state inhibitor of glyoxalase-I

The design, synthesis, and enzyme kinetics evaluation of a transition-state inhibitor of glyoxalase-I is described. The union of the hydroxamic acid zinc-chelator with a urea isostere for the glu-cys amide bond led to a glutathione analog which retained inhibitory potency toward glyoxalase-I while possessing resistance toward gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase mediated breakdown. This compound is viewed as a potential lead for the development of second-generation glyoxalase-I inhibitors wherein, the problems pertaining to metabolism and selectivity are overcome.
Characteristics of women in preterm labor associated with elevated C-reactive protein levels

Objective: To evaluate clinical, microbiologic, and histologic findings associated with elevated C-reactive protein levels among women in preterm labor or with preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PROM). Methods: Obstetric data, serum C-reactive protein levels, and amniotic fluid (AF) and chorioamniotic membrane cultures and histology were obtained on 203 women presenting between 22-34 weeks' gestation in preterm labor or with PROM. Results: Women with C-reactive protein greater than 1.5 mg/dL were more likely to deliver within 7 days of enrollment (54 of 68, 79%) than were women with normal C-reactive protein levels (45 of 135, 33%) (P Conclusions: Elevated C-reactive protein appears to be associated with AF infection, delivery within 7 days of admission, and infant death among women delivering preterm, but not with membrane infection or inflammation. Elevated C-reactive protein may be helpful in determining the need for AF culture and in targeting studies of antibiotic therapy among women in preterm labor or with preterm PROM.(Obstet Gynecol 1993;82:509-14)
300 MHz continuous wave electron paramagnetic resonance spectrometer for small animal in vivo imaging

Design and construction of an electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometer, operating in the continuous wave mode in the radio frequency (rf) region, and capable of performing spectroscopy and in vivo imaging of paramagnetic spin probes is described. A resonant frequency of 300 MHz was chosen to provide the required sensitivity at nontoxic levels of commonly used spin probes and penetration of the rf in small animals. Three major components, the magnet, the radio frequency signal detection bridge, and the data acquisition module are described in this article. Integration of a rapid scan capability to reduce imaging time is also described. Two- and three-dimensional EPR images of the spin probe distribution in phantom objects as well as from in vivo experiments are reported. From the EPR images, morphology of some internal organs could be recognized. EPR images of the spin probe distribution in mice suggest differences in perfusion of the spin probe between normal and tumor regions. Addition of a spectral dimension to spatial images should enable differentiation of oxygen status in normal and pathological conditions.
Scattering and Imaging with Diffusing Temporal Field Correlations

We consider the transport of the electric field temporal autocorrelation in heterogeneous, fluctuating turbid media. Experiments are performed in strongly scattering media with spatially separated static and dynamic components, and low resolution ``dynamical'' images of such media are obtained using autocorrelation measurements of the emerging speckle fields taken along the sample surface. Our analysis, based on a diffusion approximation to the field correlation transport equation, reveals that the field correlation scatters from macroscopic dynamical heterogeneities within turbid media.
Modified Dry Column Procedure for Extraction of Lipids from Cured Meats

Polar lipids extracted from heated, nitrite-treated meats by a dry column procedure contain pigmented contaminants that interfere with subsequent analyses. Three modifications to the standard extraction procedure were studied: (a) changes in the composition of the trap, (b) insertion of additional material between column proper and trap, and (c) changes in the solvent system. Most satisfactory results were obtained by the addition of magnesium oxide to the trap (I). This resulted in the retention of impurities on the column and provided convenient, trouble-free operation. Polar lipids isolated in this manner were free of peroxides. Uncontaminated lipids were extracted from commercially processed meats by use of the modified procedure.
Promoting infant development during neonatal hospitalization: critiquing the state of the science.

Contempary neonatal intensive care units treat infants with very different medical conditions from those of a decade ago Approaches to ensuring optimal outcome following highrisk birth must reflect the changing conditions and needs of these infants This paper will review the cause and nature of change in infant status and attempt to reconcile the increasing demand for supporting stages of neuromaturation and social-emotional development during hospitalization with our current limited understanding of how fragile infants process and respond to interventions Special cautions will be directed to well-meaning caregivers who may unwittingly jeopardize infant health and development by implementing new clinical models without empirical support Opportunities for integrating psychosocial and medical care of these infants will also be highlighted.
TEE: The ENEA traffic emissions and energetics model micro-scale applications

Abstract TEE is an innovative emission model aimed at providing detailed calculation of the several factors influencing vehicles fuel consumption and pollutant emissions. The current model performs a microscopic analysis of traffic flows at street level, but a parallel version is being extended to the city case, in the framework of a cooperation with INRETS. In this paper the main features of the TEE model are described, together with the initial test cases performed for the operational assessment of the software: a stretch of a highway, a toll station and an urban road with multifloor parking.
Convergent Validity of Four Accelerometer Cutpoints With Direct Observation of Preschool Children's Outdoor Physical Activity

Purpose: More than one fifth of American preschool-aged children are classified as overweight/obese. Increasing physical activity is one means of slowing/reversing progression to overweight or obesity. Measurement of physical activity in this age group relies heavily on motion sensors such as accelerometers. Output is typically interpreted through application of one of several cutpoints to quantify the amount of time spent at various physical activity levels. Cutpoint nonequivalence has resulted in widely varying estimates of physical activity. Thus, we sought to ascertain the convergent validity of four ActiGraph accelerometer cutpoints with the Observation System for Recording Activity in Children–Preschool (OSRAC–P). Method: Two studies were conducted with sixty-nine 4- and 5-year-olds during unstructured outdoor free play at a single university campus preschool in Southern California. In Study 1 (N = 57), percentages of time spent in sedentary behavior (SED) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity ...
Magnetic relaxation switches capable of sensing molecular interactions

Highly sensitive, efficient, and high-throughput biosensors are required for genomic and proteomic data acquisition in complex biological samples and potentially for in vivo applications. To facilitate these studies, we have developed biocompatible magnetic nanosensors that act as magnetic relaxation switches (MRS) to detect molecular interactions in the reversible self-assembly of disperse magnetic particles into stable nanoassemblies. Using four different types of molecular interactions (DNA-DNA, protein-protein, protein-small molecule, and enzyme reactions) as model systems, we show that the MRS technology can be used to detect these interactions with high efficiency and sensitivity using magnetic relaxation measurements including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Furthermore, the magnetic changes are detectable in turbid media and in whole-cell lysates without protein purification. The developed magnetic nanosensors can be used in a variety of biological applications such as in homogeneous assays, as reagents in miniaturized microfluidic systems, as affinity ligands for rapid and high-throughput magnetic readouts of arrays, as probes for magnetic force microscopy, and potentially for in vivo imaging.
Trail User Demographics, Physical Activity Behaviors, and Perceptions of a Newly Constructed Greenway Trail

To better understand and promote physical activity on a newly constructed trail, the present study examined the demographic characteristics and physical activity behaviors of trail users; the demographic characteristics of trail users compared to the demographic profile Greenville County, South Carolina residents; trail users’ purpose for using the trail; the distance trail users traveled to access the trail from their homes; channels through which trail users learned about the trail; and trail characteristics liked by trail users. Using a valid and reliable intercept survey, 1,148 trail users were interviewed. Trail users were mostly white (93.1%), male (59.1%) adults (84.2%) who reported using the trail for exercise (91%). Significant associations were identified between trail user demographic characteristics and how trail users learned about the trail and trail characteristics liked by trail users. The findings may contribute to the development of targeted health promotion efforts to promote physical activity on this and similar trails.
On-line learning control of autonomous underwater vehicles using feedforward neural networks

A neural-network-based learning control scheme for the motion control of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) is described. The scheme has a number of advantages over the classical control schemes and conventional adaptive control techniques. The dynamics of the controlled vehicle need not be fully known. The controller with the aid of a gain layer learns the dynamics and adapts fast to give the correct control action. The dynamic response and tracking performance could be accurately controlled by adjusting the network learning rate. A modified direct control scheme using multilayered neural network architecture is used in the studies with backpropagation as the learning algorithm. Results of simulation studies using nonlinear AUV dynamics are described in detail. The robustness of the control system to sudden and slow varying disturbances in the dynamics is studied and the results are presented. >
An Algorithm for Incremental Timing Analysis

In recent years, many new algorithms have been proposed for performing a complete timing analysis of sequential logic circuits. In this paper, we present an incremental timing analysis algorithm. When an incremental design change is made on the logic network, this algorithm will identify the portion of design for which the timing is affected, and quickly derive the new arrival times and slacks. A fast incremental timing analysis is desirable for users doing interactive logic design. It is particularly important for a logic synthesis program, which needs to evaluate the circuit delays under many logic modifications.
Dermal Efficacy Evaluation of New Insecticides for Control of Plum Curculio in Peaches

Abstract Labeled rates of bifenthrin (Capture® 4EC, 112 mg a.i. ha-1), fipronil (Regent® 4SC, 280 mg a.i.-ha-1), malathion (Bonide® 50% Malathion, 560 mg a.i.-ha-1), thiacloprid (Calypso® 4EC, 288 mg a.i.-ha-1), thiamethoxam (Actara® 25WG, 87 mg a.i.-ha-1), and twice the labeled rates of these same insecticides, were examined (along with an untreated control) for dermal efficacy against plum curculio, Conotrachelus nenuphar (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Plum curculios treated with labeled rates of fipronil, bifenthrin, and malathion exhibited higher mortality (by no later than 96 hours post-application) than plum curculios left untreated or treated with labeled rates of thiamethoxam and thiacloprid. At 24 h post-application, malathion at the labeled rate, malathion at twice the labeled rate, and bifenthrin at twice the labeled rate resulted in > 90% efficacy. Fipronil at twice the labeled rate produced an acceptable level of control (≤90% mortality) by 48 h post-application. This rapid laboratory ...
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Mechanisms of Resistance and Treatment

Imatinib mesylate has revolutionized the treatment landscape for patients with newly diagnosed chronic myeloid leukemia. Follow-up has shown excellent response rates, progression-free survival, and overall survival after 8 years. However, some patients develop resistance to imatinib treatment because of a multitude of reasons. Strategies to overcome resistance include dose escalation of imatinib or switching to a second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor or to one of the newer non-tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This article guides the treating physician with a rational approach in the management of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia who fail initial treatment with imatinib or lose response while on therapy with imatinib.
Indicators of microbial-rich environments and the development of papillary thyroid cancer in the California Teachers Study

Abstract Background Little epidemiologic research has focused on the role of immune function in papillary thyroid cancer risk despite scattered observations suggesting it may be important (e.g., hygiene hypothesis). Here we investigate papillary thyroid cancer risk associated with self-reported living environments across the lifespan reflecting immunologically relevant exposures to microbial-rich environments. Methods Among 61,803 eligible participants in the California Teachers Study cohort, 100 were diagnosed with invasive papillary thyroid cancer between 2005 and 2012. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results Living in a rural area during early childhood was associated with significantly reduced risk of developing papillary thyroid cancer as an adult (HR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.28–0.94). Specifically, reduced risks were observed for living within a half mile of hoofed animals (HR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.26–0.84), as was having an indoor dog or cat (HR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.32–0.80). Neither sharing a bedroom or living in a rented home as a child nor attending daycare or kindergarten was associated with reduced risk. Conclusions Early childhood exposures to hoofed animals or indoor furry pets were associated with reduced risk of subsequently developing papillary thyroid cancer. Impact Our findings point to immunologically relevant, early-life exposures to microbial-rich environments as potentially important in reducing thyroid cancer risk, consistent with the hygiene hypothesis and suggesting that certain, possibly animal-derived, microbial exposures may be important to immune calibration or priming.
A CRISPR/Cas9 vector system for tissue-specific gene disruption in zebrafish

CRISPR/Cas9 technology of genome editing has greatly facilitated the targeted inactivation of genes in vitro and in vivo in a wide range of organisms. In zebrafish, it allows the rapid generation of knockout lines by simply injecting a guide RNA (gRNA) and Cas9 mRNA into one-cell stage embryos. Here, we report a simple and scalable CRISPR-based vector system for tissue-specific gene inactivation in zebrafish. As proof of principle, we used our vector with the gata1 promoter driving Cas9 expression to silence the urod gene, implicated in heme biosynthesis, specifically in the erythrocytic lineage. Urod targeting yielded red fluorescent erythrocytes in zebrafish embryos, recapitulating the phenotype observed in the yquem mutant. While F0 embryos displayed mosaic gene disruption, the phenotype appeared very penetrant in stable F1 fish. This vector system constitutes a unique tool to spatially control gene knockout and greatly broadens the scope of loss-of-function studies in zebrafish.
Alfentanil: correlations between absence of effect upon subcutaneous mast cells and absence of granuloma formation after intrathecal infusion in the dog.

Background We hypothesize that intrathecal (IT) granulomas arising from the IT infusion of several opiates may result from the degranulation of meningeal mast cells (MC). Given functional covariance between cutaneous and meningeal MC, we propose that opioids that do not degranulate cutaneous MC will not produce a granuloma. An opioid meeting this criteria is the phenylpiperadine alfentanil HCl. Methods Three experiments were accomplished in dogs. 1) Cutaneous MC degranulation. Flare areas on the dog abdomen were measured after intradermal alfentanil, morphine, or compound 48–80. 2) Dose ranging of analgesic effects of IT alfentanil infusion. Dogs with lumbar IT catheters received continuous infusion for 24 hours of different concentrations (1–20 mg/mL/d) of alfentanil and analgesic effects were assessed. 3) Granuloma inducing effects. Dogs received IT alfentanil (20 mg/mL/d; N = 5; 22–28 days) or morphine (12 mg/mL/d; N = 3; 22–30 days) and spinal cord harvested for histopathology after 22–30 days of infusion. Results 1) Intradermal morphine (10 mg/mL) and compound 48–80 (1 mg/mL) but not alfentanil at concentrations up to 20 mg/mL produced a cutaneous flare. IT alfentanil infusion produced increases in thermal escape latency at concentrations as low as 2 mg/mL/day. A significant depression of arousal was noted in the dogs receiving 20 mg/mL. Over the 22- to 30-day infusion period, morphine (12 mg/mL/day) resulted in granulomas in all three animals examined whereas IT alfentanil at 20 mg/mL/day failed to initiate a granuloma in any animal. Conclusions These results support the hypothesis linking MC degranulation and IT granulomas.
A suffix tree approach to the interpretation of tandem mass spectra: applications to peptides of non-specific digestion and post-translational modifications

Motivation: Tandem mass spectrometry combined with sequence database searching is one of the most powerful tools for protein identification. As thousands of spectra are generated by a mass spectrometer in one hour, the speed of database searching is critical, especially when searching against a large sequence database, or when the peptide is generated by some unknown or non-specific enzyme, even or when the target peptides have posttranslational modifications (PTM). In practice, about 70‐ 90% of the spectra have no match in the database. Many believe that a significant portion of them are due to peptides of non-specific digestions by unknown enzymes or amino acid modifications. In another case, scientists may choose to use some non-specific enzymes such as pepsin or thermolysin for proteolysis in proteomic study, in that not all proteins are amenable to be digested by some site-specific enzymes, and furthermore many digested peptides may not fall within the rang of molecular weight suitable for mass spectrometry analysis. Interpretating mass spectra of these kinds will cost a lot of computational time of database search engines. Overview: The present study was designed to speed up the database searching process for both cases. More specifically speaking, we employed an approach combining suffix tree data structure and spectrum graph. The suffix tree is used to preprocess the protein sequence database, while the spectrum graph is used to preprocess the tandem mass spectrum. We then search the suffix tree against the spectrum graph for candidate peptides. We design an efficient algorithm to compute am atching threshold with some statistical significance level, e.g. p = 0.01 ,f or each spectrum, and use it to select candidate peptides. Then we rank these peptides using a SEQUEST-like scoring function. The algorithms were implemented and tested on experimental data. For
The development of a philosophy for an applied Web programming curriculum

Web and browser-based technology is an active field in the practice of computer science. In recent years, universities have started to develop Web programming courses and curricula, often struggling with how to define such programs. Questions arise as to how Web programming relates to traditional programming paradigms. Can it or should it be integrated into traditional programming coursework? Other questions address the cross-discipline nature of developing information delivery systems for the Web. The problem solving elements of computer science and systems integration are side-by-side with business needs and graphical arts requirements. This paper reports on the effort to define a philosophy for an applied Web programming curriculum for an associate's degree in a computer and information technology program.
Modulation of the metabiome by rifaximin in patients with cirrhosis and minimal hepatic encephalopathy.

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) represents a dysfunctional gut-liver-brain axis in cirrhosis which can negatively impact outcomes. This altered gut-brain relationship has been treated using gut-selective antibiotics such as rifaximin, that improve cognitive function in HE, especially its subclinical form, minimal HE (MHE). However, the precise mechanism of the action of rifaximin in MHE is unclear. We hypothesized that modulation of gut microbiota and their end-products by rifaximin would affect the gut-brain axis and improve cognitive performance in cirrhosis. Aim To perform a systems biology analysis of the microbiome, metabolome and cognitive change after rifaximin in MHE. Methods: Twenty cirrhotics with MHE underwent cognitive testing, endotoxin analysis, urine/serum metabolomics (GC and LC-MS) and fecal microbiome assessment (multi-tagged pyrosequencing) at baseline and 8 weeks post-rifaximin 550 mg BID. Changes in cognition, endotoxin, serum/urine metabolites (and microbiome were analyzed using recommended systems biology techniques. Specifically, correlation networks between microbiota and metabolome were analyzed before and after rifaximin. Results: There was a significant improvement in cognition(six of seven tests improved,p,0.01) and endotoxemia (0.55 to 0.48 Eu/ml, p=0.02) after rifaximin. There was a significant increase in serum saturated (myristic, caprylic, palmitic, palmitoleic, oleic and eicosanoic) and unsaturated (linoleic, linolenic, gamma-linolenic and arachnidonic) fatty acids postrifaximin. No significant microbial change apart from a modest decrease in Veillonellaceae and increase in Eubacteriaceae was observed. Rifaximin resulted in a significant reduction in network connectivity and clustering on the correlation networks. The networks centered on Enterobacteriaceae, Porphyromonadaceae and Bacteroidaceae indicated a shift from pathogenic to beneficial metabolite linkages and better cognition while those centered on autochthonous taxa remained similar. Conclusions: Rifaximin is associated with improved cognitive function and endotoxemia in MHE, which is accompanied by alteration of gut bacterial linkages with metabolites without significant change in microbial abundance. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01069133
A system for in-space assembly

This paper presents an experimental system for assembly in space. A weightless and frictionless environment is approximated using an air-hockey table where robots and structural components can float on the surface. The robots use fan propulsion to dock with components and assemble them together to make 2D structures. This system is designed to implement three key technologies for space self-assembly: 1) intelligent components with universal connectors, 2) a set of self-reconfigurable robots that fetch and assemble components, and 3) a distributed method for controlling the robotic-assembly process. An overview of the system's design and experimental results is presented.
Integrating segmentation and paging protection for safe, efficient and transparent software extensions

The trend towards extensible software architectures and component-based software development demands safe, efficient, and easy-to-use extension mechanisms to enforce protection boundaries among software modules residing in the same address space. This paper describes the design, implementation, and evaluation of a novel intra-address space protection mechanism called Palladium, which exploits the segmentation and paging hardware in the Intel X86 architecture and efficiently supports safe kernel-level and user-level extensions in a way that is largely transparent to programmers and existing programming tools. Based on the considerations on ease of extension programming and systems implementation complexity, Palladium uses different approaches to support user-level and kernel-level extension mechanisms. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the Palladium architecture, we built a Web server that exploits the user-level extension mechanism to invoke CGI scripts as local function calls in a safe way, and we constructed a compiled network packet filter that exploits the kernel-level extension mechanism to run packet-filtering binaries safely inside the kernel at native speed. The current Palladium prototype implementation demonstrates that a protected procedure call and return costs 142 CPU cycles on a Pentium 200MHz machine running Linux.
New Waveguide Structures for Millimeter-Wave Integrated Circuits

Three new types of waveguide structures, which are useful for millimeter-wave integrated circuits, have been studied. Methods of analysis for these structures have been developed and the numerical results have been compared with experimental data.