cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cylindrical dielectric resonator antenna designs that have reduced lateral radiation

Three designs for cylindrical dielectric resonator antennas (DRAs) are presented that have little lateral radiation. The three designs have different combinations of aspect ratio and permittivity depending on the feed arrangement: the TM 121 mode is used for an aperture-coupled feed and a hybrid probe-DRA mode is used for probe-fed and dual probe-fed variations. These proposed antennas reduce mutual coupling between array elements as well as mitigate the impact of edge diffraction on the radiation patterns when mounted on finite ground planes.
Book Review of Time Series and System Analysis with Applications by Sudhakar M. Pandit & Shien-Ming Wu

(1987). Book Review of Time Series and System Analysis with Applications by Sudhakar M. Pandit & Shien-Ming Wu. American Journal of Mathematical and Management Sciences: Vol. 7, No. 1-2, pp. 199-202.
Chlordecone lacks estrogenic properties in the male rat

Abstract The reproductive toxicity of chlordecone has been hypothesized to derived from estrogen mimicry. To test this hypothesis, the effects of estradiol-17β, testosterone, and chlordecone on the male reproductive tract of 60-day-old male rats were compared after 72 days of exposure. Estradiol-17β (25 μg/week) and testosterone (945 μg/week), administered by polydimethylsiloxane capsules implanted subdermally, caused significant reductions in spermatogenesis, sperm motility, testicular capacity for secreting testosterone, and the weights of testes and epididymides. Estradiol-17β also caused significant declines in serum testosterone concentrations, and the weight of the prostate and seminal vesicles. Chlordecone, administered either by polydimethylsiloxane capsule or by ip injection, had no effect on any of these parameters, except to reduce significantly seminal vesicle weight at the highest dose of injected chlordecone, 7.5 mg/week. Therefore, chlordecone does not mimic estrogen in its effects on the reproductive system of the male rat.
The hierarchy of dominance in a group of macaques.

(1) The linear dominance hierarchy of a group of six caged macaques was studied over a twenty month period. The monkeys, two males and four ovariectomized females, were two to three years old when they were placed together. The rate at which the different monkeys acquired peanuts from an apparatus as well as their aggressive and grooming behavior were scored. (2) When the monkeys were tested in groups of two, three, four, and five, the relative positions of individual monkeys changed. From these shifts in order and from aggressive patterns, it was seen that the position of a monkey in a group was dependent on more than his size and boldness. It was also a function of his relations to other monkeys in the group and of their relations to one another. (3) Both in the full colony and in most of the smaller groups, the most dominant animal set the over-all pattern of the hierarchy, first, by establishing an alliance with a subordinate monkey (by supporting his aggression) and thus raising his status and, second, by forcibly depressing the power of one or more other monkeys, which lowered their positions relative to other animals in the group. Monkeys below the most dominant were not successful in maintaining alliances with other subordinates, but they showed preferences in whom they attacked, and thus contributed to the total balance of forces within the group. The tendency to form alliances appeared in the absence of any specifically sexual basis for it. (4) The ovariectomized female was able to maintain her dominance over the males, one of whom came to weigh 45 per cent more than she did. (5) Grooming behavior was not related in any simple way to dominance positions. Choice of grooming partners cut across hierarchical lines, with the most dominant monkey being groomed most. However, grooming seemed at times to create or reinforce an alliance relationship.
Follicular-phase serum progesterone levels of nonsmoking women do not differ from the levels of nonsmoking men.

Because we had observed that smoking has a pronounced effect on serum progesterone levels, we reinvestigated in healthy nonsmokers the relative progesterone levels of men and follicular-phase women. Each of eight women had multiple measurements of serum progesterone during the follicular phase of a menstrual cycle (10 days through 3 days prior to the luteinizing hormone peak of that cycle), and the average of those values was taken to represent the basal progesterone level for that woman. Seven men had blood samples drawn at 20-minute intervals between 6:00 and 9:00 am, through an indwelling venous catheter, and the average of those values was taken. The mean follicular-phase serum progesterone level in the women was 21.4 ± 5.4 ng/dl and the mean level in the men was 18.1 ± 3.1 ng/dl. The difference was not statistically significant. In view of this finding, we conclude that there is essentially no ovarian secretion of progesterone during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. (Steroids 55: 557–559, 1990)
Methylation of 4-thio-2'-deoxyuridylate by thymidylate synthetase.

Summary 4-Thio-2′-deoxyuridylate was found to be a substrate for the thymidylate synthetase of a dichloromethotrexate resistant strain of Lactobacillus casei . The enzymic product which contained the carbon derived from formaldehyde, was identified as 4-thiothymidylate by chromatographic analysis. 4-Thio-2′-deoxyuridylate inhibited the methylation of deoxyuridylate with an apparent K i of 7×10 −5 M , reflecting its lower affinity for the enzyme as compared to the natural substrate. 4-Thio-2′-deoxyuridylate is, so far, the only substrate analog modified in the base which is methylated by thymidylate synthetase.
Reconfigurable pin-type tooling : A survey of prior art and reduction to practice

The idea of using a bed-of-pins as a completely reconfigurable discrete tool surface (referred to as a reconfigurable pin-type tool) for forming or molding of mechanical components has been around for at least 140 years. Interestingly, the state-of-the-art today differs little from early patents except for the introduction of powered actuation and computer control. To help explain why this promising manufacturing technology is not used more extensively in industry, this paper attempts to tell a complete story about reconfigurable pin-type tooling through analysis of the state-of-the-art academic and industrial research, and commercialization of the concept from the original patented concept in 1863. The authors begin by defining what a reconfigurable tool is and by describing what characteristics an ideal reconfigurable tool should have. Next, the history of reconfigurable tooling patents from 1863 to 2003 and related research from the late 1960s to the present is recounted. One major research effort that eventually led to the development of a commercial project was the U.S. government-sponsored Reconfigurable Tooling for Flexible Fabrication project. A critical analysis shows that the state-of-the-art in reconfigurable pin-type tooling meets all specifications of the defined "ideal tool" with the exception of spatial resolution and weight. Finally, the reserved response by industry to adopt reconfigurable pin-type tooling and future of reconfigurable tooling is discussed.
Motors: Unleashing Mitochondria

Mitochondria can move along and interact with actin, yet the identity of the protein(s) mediating the interactions in metazoans is unknown. A new study reveals that a novel unconventional myosin, Myo19, is a mitochondria-associated motor that may play a role in either the transport or tethering of this organelle.
Neutron reflectivity of end-grafted polymers: Concentration and solvent quality dependence in equilibrium conditions.

Neutron reflectometry is used to obtain a direct measurement of the monomer distribution of a weakly bound end-grafted polystyrene layer in equilibrium with bulk solution, as a function of the polymer concentration and temperature. We report for the first time two new regions in the density profile of the polymers, an excess polymer near the surface and a wetting layer on top of the brush. The physical properties of the polymer layer are strongly affected by the equilibrium between the bound and free polymer molecules.
Measurement of enthalpic relaxation by differential scanning calorimetry—effect of experimental conditions

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is the most commonly used technique for studying enthalpic relaxation in amorphous systems. Our objective was to study the effect of experimental conditions, specifically heating and cooling rates, on the enthalpic relaxation measurement by differential scanning calorimetry. Amorphous trehalose was prepared by freeze-drying an aqueous solution of trehalose dihydrate. It was subjected to differential scanning calorimetry. The enthalpic recovery (ER) at the glass transition temperature (Tg), for identically aged samples, depended on the heating rate (HR). The Tg onset increased as a function of the heating rate and so did the completion of enthalpic recovery, i.e., the temperature at which the enthalpy curve meets the super-cooled liquid line after the glass transition. Therefore, the enthalpic recovery, and by extension the observed extent of relaxation, was influenced by the heating rate. As the aging time increased, there was an increase in the Tg onset as well as the completion of enthalpic recovery. Since the calculated enthalpic recovery value is strongly dependent on this endpoint, there is a potential for overestimation of the relaxation below Tg. This is particularly important for longer aging times and higher heating rates. It is generally believed that the enthalpic recovery can be minimized by keeping the cooling and heating rates identical. This observation can also be explained by the effect of heating rate on Tg onset and the endpoint of enthalpic recovery. The enthalpic recovery at Tg may not reflect the state of the sample, and may be strongly influenced by the experimental conditions. Thus, the effects of experimental conditions need to be carefully evaluated in order to obtain meaningful results.
Unilateral cleft lip/nose repair: Bardach's technique

Construction of the nasal floor is of great importance in unilateral cleft lip/nose repair. In my technique, this construction is achieved by creating mucoperiosteal and mucoperiochondrial flaps on the lateral nasal wall and on the nasal septum, which are then sutured together in two layers. By extending the closure anteriorly, the nasolabial fistula is also closed at the time of primary cleft lip repair. Construction of the nasal floor can be successfully achieved in narrow and medium-sized unilateral clefts. In wide clefts, where two-layer closure may be more difficult to achieve, one-layer closure may suffice.
Simple calculation of Madelung constants

It is found that direct Madelung sums within a sphere of large radius $R$ obtained with a laptop converge rapidly if, and only if, one calculates also the charge $Q$ of the cluster, and adds a shell of charge $\ensuremath{-}Q$ at radius $R$. A simple program running through the lattice provides Madelung potentials within a part in a thousand of the correct values in a few seconds of computation. It is illustrated for perovskite lattices. The corresponding calculation for a metal, positive charges embedded in a constant compensating negative charge distribution, is similarly successful.
Photosensitization of ZnO nanowires with CdSe quantum dots for photovoltaic devices

We combine CdSe semiconductor nanocrystals (or quantum dots) and single-crystal ZnO nanowires to demonstrate a new type of quantum-dot-sensitized solar cell. An array of ZnO nanowires was grown vertically from a fluorine-doped tin oxide conducting substrate. CdSe quantum dots, capped with mercaptopropionic acid, were attached to the surface of the nanowires. When illuminated with visible light, the excited CdSe quantum dots injected electrons across the quantum dot−nanowire interface. The morphology of the nanowires then provided the photoinjected electrons with a direct electrical pathway to the photoanode. With a liquid electrolyte as the hole transport medium, quantum-dot-sensitized nanowire solar cells exhibited short-circuit currents ranging from 1 to 2 mA/cm2 and open-circuit voltages of 0.5−0.6 V when illuminated with 100 mW/cm2 simulated AM1.5 spectrum. Internal quantum efficiencies as high as 50−60% were also obtained.
Determination of debris albedo from visible and infrared brightnesses

The Air Force Phillips Laboratory is conducting measurements to characterize the orbital debris environment using wide-field optical systems located at the Air Force's Maui, Hawaii, Space Surveillance Site. Conversion of the observed visible brightnesses of detected debris objects to physical sizes require knowledge of the albedo (reflectivity). A thermal model for small debris objects has been developed and is used to calculate albedos from simultaneous visible and thermal infrared observations of catalogued debris objects. The model and initial results will be discussed.
Breakdown in the organ donation process and its effect on organ availability

Background. This study examines the effect of breakdown in the organ donation process on the availability of transplantable organs. A process breakdown is defined as a deviation from the organ donation protocol that may jeopardize organ recovery. Methods. A retrospective analysis of donation-eligible decedents was conducted using data from an independent organ procurement organization. Adjusted effect of process breakdown on organs transplanted from an eligible decedent was examined using multivariable zero-inflated Poisson regression. Results. An eligible decedent is four times more likely to become an organ donor when there is no process breakdown (adjusted OR: 4.01; 95% CI: 1.6838, 9.6414; P < 0.01) even after controlling for the decedent's age, gender, race, and whether or not a decedent had joined the state donor registry. However once the eligible decedent becomes a donor, whether or not there was a process breakdown does not affect the number of transplantable organs yielded. Overall, for every process breakdown occurring in the care of an eligible decedent, one less organ is available for transplant. Decedent's age is a strong predictor of likelihood of donation and the number of organs transplanted from a donor. Conclusion. Eliminating breakdowns in the donation process can potentially increase the number of organs available for transplant but some organs will still be lost.
Surface Albedo–Climate Feedback Simulated Using Two-Way Coupling

Abstract To simulate the effects of feedback between climate and surface albedo via vegetation, a scheme was developed, based on a generalized life zone scheme, for estimating the land surface albedo as a function of annual mean precipitation and surface temperature. This scheme was applied to the climate of a GCM and made interactive with the GCM. The climate of this run was compared with one in which the land surface albedo was prescribed to a spatially uniform value. Allowing such feedback within the modeling system enhances the atmospheric ascent and heavy precipitation of tropical rainbelts, in comparison with a case with spatially homogeneous surface albedo prescribed. It also intensifies the atmospheric descent and low precipitation rates over subtropical latitudes. That is, a positive feedback occurs at low latitudes. At midlatitudes, thermal forcing due to the spatial distribution of surface albedo has little effect on vertical motion or precipitation. However, in the Central Asian and Gobi Deser...
Experimental validation of a Monte Carlo-based kV x-ray projection model for the Varian linac-mounted cone-beam CT imaging system

Fast and accurate modeling of cone-beam CT (CBCT) x-ray projection data can improve CBCT image quality either by linearizing projection data for each patient prior to image reconstruction (thereby mitigating detector blur/lag, spectral hardening, and scatter artifacts) or indirectly by supporting rigorous comparative simulation studies of competing image reconstruction and processing algorithms. In this study, we compare Monte Carlo-computed x-ray projections with projections experimentally acquired from our Varian Trilogy CBCT imaging system for phantoms of known design. Our recently developed Monte Carlo photon-transport code, PTRAN, was used to compute primary and scatter projections for cylindrical phantom of known diameter (NA model 76-410) with and without bow-tie filter and antiscatter grid for both full- and half-fan geometries. These simulations were based upon measured 120 kVp spectra, beam profiles, and flat-panel detector (4030CB) point-spread function. Compound Poisson- process noise was simulated based upon measured beam output. Computed projections were compared to flat- and dark-field corrected 4030CB images where scatter profiles were estimated by subtracting narrow axial-from full axial width 4030CB profiles. In agreement with the literature, the difference between simulated and measured projection data is of the order of 6-8%. The measurement of the scatter profiles is affected by the long tails of the detector PSF. Higher accuracy can be achieved mainly by improving the beam modeling and correcting the non linearities induced by the detector PSF.
Energetic and dynamic impact of counterbalance valves in fluid power machines

Abstract Counterbalance valves negatively affect the dynamical behavior of most of the hydraulic systems in which they are utilized, and they introduce additional energy consumption. Various valve architectures have been developed to address the dynamical issues related to the use of these components, and empirical guidelines are also available to determine the best value of their set parameters such as the pilot ratio and the setting pressure. However, the problem of characterizing the portion of energy consumption introduced by counterbalance valves in a hydraulic circuit, and how this consumption is related to the valve setting, has never been addressed according to a systematic approach. This paper addresses this problem and proposes a general approach to study the energy consumption introduced by the counterbalance valves for given operating cycles of the machine in which they are used. In particular, a graphical method is utilized to study the effects of counterbalance valves in the whole hydraulic system. This method is also used to interpret the potentials for energy recovery associated with different settings of the counterbalance valves. The basic considerations which can be obtained using a graphical method are then supported by results provided by a more detailed numerical model of a particular reference machine, a hydraulic crane. The numerical model is validated on the basis of experimental results and permits to derive not only considerations about the energy consumption of counterbalance valves, but also their effect in terms of dynamic behavior of the system.
Early BDNF, NT-3, and NT-4 signaling events.

Much more is known about nerve growth factor (NGF) signaling than that initiated by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), or NT-4. We sought to study early BDNF, NT-3, and NT-4 signaling events. Using TrkB-expressing cells, we found that BDNF and NT-4 individually induced tyrosine phosphorylation of TrkB in a dose-dependent fashion. At maximally effective concentrations, BDNF or NT-4 induced robust TrkB tyrosine phosphorylation at 5 min; this progressively declined at 15, 30, and 60 min. Using immunoprecipitation, PI3-kinase and tyrosine phosphorylated PLC-γ1 and SHC were shown to be associated with tyrosine phosphorylated TrkB in response to both BDNF and NT-4. BDNF and NT-4 induced similar intensities of phosphorylation of TrkB and signaling intermediates at equivalent doses. NT-3 treatment of TrkC-expressing cells induced very similar patterns for induction of TrkC tyrosine phosphorylation and recruitment of signaling intermediates. BDNF, NT-3, and NT-4 caused rapid tyrosine phosphorylation of ERK and SNT. These data suggest that the earliest signaling events for BDNF, NT-3, and NT-4 are very similar to those for NGF.
Perioperative Care of an Infant With an Open Safety Pin in the Hypopharynx

In the practice of pediatric anesthesia, foreign body (FB) aspiration represents a commonly encountered surgical emergency, which may lead to morbidity and mortality if not handled in a timely and effective fashion. We present a 12-month-old infant who was found to have a sharp FB lodged in the hypopharynx at the level of the glottis, leading to a unique clinical challenge, both from the standpoint of airway management and removal technique. We discuss the symptoms and radiographic manifestations of FB aspiration. Options for anesthetic management are presented and potential complications are reviewed. J Med Cases. 2015;6(4):146-149 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jmc2017w
The selective cannabinoid antagonist SR 141716A blocks cannabinoid-induced antinociception in rats.

Abstract The purported CB 1 cannabinoid antagonist SR 141716A has proven to be a useful tool in the investigation of cannabinoid pharmacology. This antagonist was employed in the present study to investigate the antinociceptive and cataleptic effects of cannabinoids after either systemic or intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration. The antinociceptive potency of systemically administered Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ 9 -THC) was decreased 18-fold by SR 141716A, from an ED 50 value of 0.3–5.1 mg/kg. Similarly, it completely blocked the antinociceptive effects of Δ 9 -THC and CP 55,940, a potent bicyclic cannabinoid, after ICV administration. In addition, it prevented cannabinoid-induced catalepsy when given by either route of administration. In contrast, SR 141716A failed to antagonize the antinociceptive effects of morphine, indicating its selectivity for cannabinoid receptors. These findings indicate that the antinociceptive and cataleptic effects of Δ 9 -THC and CP 55,940 are mediated through CB 1 cannabinoid receptors.
Relationship between frequency response and settling time of operational amplifiers

The effects of pole-zero pairs (doublets) on the frequency response and settling time of operational amplifiers are explored using analytical techniques and computer simulation. It is shown that doublets which produce only minor changes in circuit frequency response can produce major changes in settling time. The importance of doublet spacing and frequency are examined. It is shown that settling time always improves as doublet spacing is reduced whereas the effect of doublet frequency is different for 0.1 and 0.01 percent error bands. Finally it is shown that simple analytical formulas can be used to estimate the influence of frequency doublets on amplifier settling time.
Computing surfaces invariant under subdivision

In this paper, we propose a general subdivision algorithm for generating surfaces. The algorithm has as motivation our earlier work on the design of free form curves where similar ideas were investigated. Here we describe some properties of uniform refinement algorithms for surface generation. A detail analysis of their properties will be given later by one of us.
Regularization through variable selection and conditional MLE with application to classification in high dimensions

It is often the case that high-dimensional data consist of only a few informative components. Standard statistical modeling and estimation in such a situation is prone to inaccuracies due to overfitting, unless regularization methods are practiced. In the context of classification, we propose a class of regularization methods through shrinkage estimators. The shrinkage is based on variable selection coupled with conditional maximum likelihood. Using Stein's unbiased estimator of the risk, we derive an estimator for the optimal shrinkage method within a certain class. A comparison of the optimal shrinkage methods in a classification context, with the optimal shrinkage method when estimating a mean vector under a squared loss, is given. The latter problem is extensively studied, but it seems that the results of those studies are not completely relevant for classification. We demonstrate and examine our method on simulated data and compare it to feature annealed independence rule and Fisher's rule.
Visual Effects on Alpha Feedback Training

Presenting an audible indication of subjects' electroencephalographic alpha activity under conditions of dim ambient illumination led to systematic increases in alpha density, while in total darkness the same procedure did not. These results support the view that feedback training can be clearly demonstrated only when factors leading to a suppression of alpha activity are present in the environment.
Completeness of case ascertainment for surveillance of autism spectrum disorders using the autism developmental disabilities monitoring network methodology.

Abstract Background The Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network (ADDM), sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is the largest-scale project ever undertaken to identify the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in the United States. Objective The objective of the present study was to examine the accuracy of the ADDM methodology in terms of completeness of case ascertainment; that is, to assess the success of the ADDM Network in identifying and accurately classifying all existing cases of ASD among 8-year-old children in the target study areas. Methods To accomplish this objective, the ADDM methodology was applied to a selected region of South Carolina for 8-year olds in 2000 (birth year 1992) and again seven years later for the same region and birth year. Results For this region and birth year, completeness of case ascertainment was high, with prevalence estimates of 7.6 per 1000 at both ages 8- and 15-years. For children common to both surveillance years, concordance in case status was also high (82%). Conclusions Given that prevalence did not change within this region and birth year, continued research is needed to better understand the changes in prevalence estimates being found by the ADDM network across surveillance groups.
Impact of electronic toll collection on air pollution levels: Estimation using microscopic simulation model of large-scale transportation network

This paper presents a microscopic simulation-based estimation of the spatiotemporal change in air pollution levels as a result of electronic toll collection (ETC) deployment on the New Jersey Turnpike (NJTPK), a large-scale traffic network. The study includes (a) the disaggregate spatial estimation and analysis of the emissions instead of aggregate systemwide estimations, (b) the use of a vehicle-based and well-calibrated traffic simulation model of NJTPK network in Paramics microscopic simulation software to perform this disaggregate emission estimation, (c) the use of a unique and realistic toll plaza model with a complete mainline model to capture complex mainline—toll plaza interactions, and (d) estimation of short- and long-term impacts of ETC systems. The simulation model is loaded with a recent network-specific data set, which includes origin—destination demand data for 1999 (before ETC deployment) and for 2005 (6 years after ETC deployment) and toll plaza service times obtained from toll plaza vid...
May-Thurner Syndrome: Three Patients Treated with Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis and Stent Placement: Case Reports

Compression of the proximal left iliac vein by the right common iliac artery (May-Thurner syndrome) is an unusual cause of iliofemoral thrombosis. Several different surgical approaches have been advocated to alleviate or bypass the compression, but few reports exist of successful treatment using interventional techniques. The authors report three cases of left common iliac vein thrombosis caused by May-Thurner syndrome in two women aged 51 and 36 years, and one man aged 56 years. The two women had long histories of left leg swelling, with recurrent episodes of left iliac venous thrombosis; the man had acute symptoms and no previous history of venous thrombosis or leg swelling. Venography in all patients demonstrated left iliac vein thrombosis associated with large pelvic venous collaterals. Catheter-directed thrombolysis was performed successfully, allowing visualization of the lesions treated with balloon venoplasty and stenting. All three patients were treated with warfarin following stent placement, and all have had improvement or resolution of their symptoms and patent left iliac and femoral veins by duplex scan at 8 to 12 months of follow-up. The authors conclude that (1) Catheter-directed thrombolysis of left iliac vein thrombosis may identify patients with May-Thurner syndrome, which may occur more commonly than previously reported; (2) May-Thurner syndrome may be effectively treated nonoperatively by balloon venoplasty and stenting of the stenotic segment; and (3) the role of warfarin and the long-term results of this treatment are currently unknown.
Observation of Dicke superradiance at 1.30 μm in atomic Tl vapor

Abstract Dicke superradiance in the 1.30-μm 7 2 P 1 2 → 7 2 S 1 2 transition in Tl vapor has been induced by a 379.1-nm pulsed dye laser. Superradiant delays of up to 12 nsec have been observed.
Transversals and competition numbers of complete multipartite graphs

Let G denote a simple graph and let I"k denote the graph on k isolated vertices. The competition number of G is the minimum integer k such that [email protected]?I"k is the competition graph of an acyclic digraph. We show that if n>=5 is odd, then the competition number of the complete tetrapartite graph K"n^4 is at most n^2-4n+8. We also show that if n is a prime integer and [email protected]?n, then the competition number of K"n^m is at most n^2-2n+3.
Infrared Spectroscopic Evidence for the Ice Formation Mechanisms Active in Aerosol Flow Tubes

Interest in quantifying processes of ice formation in the atmosphere has led to the recent development of new laboratory techniques, including an aerosol flow tube (AFT) reactor employed for the study of the ice nucleation kinetics of suspended submicrometer aqueous particles. The AFT technique employs an infrared (IR) beam along the flow tube axis. Spectral changes between 700 and 6000 cm-1 indicate the formation of ice at sufficiently cool temperatures. Apparent freezing temperatures are determined as a function of condensed-phase mole fraction composition. A typical aqueous chemical system is (NH4)2SO4/H2O. The mole fraction composition of the condensed-phase of this aerosol is determined by the ratio of the integrated spectroscopic bands for H2O and SO42-. A key uncertainty in the AFT-IR technique is the freezing mechanism, and knowledge of the mechanism is essential to estimate homogeneous nucleation rates (J, cm-3 s-1) from observed apparent freezing temperatures. The current work provides observational and modeling spectral evidence, based upon changes in the scattering component of the recorded IR extinction spectra with temperature, that observed ice freezing events at warmer temperatures arise from the following mechanism: relatively few particles in the aerosol freeze (e.g., 1 in 106) and this primary event is followed by rapid scavenging of water vapor to grow the few ice particles into large ice particles observed in the IR spectra. Correspondingly, the remaining aqueous particles partially evaporate. In contrast, the spectral evidence provides support that a modified mechanism is operative at cooler temperatures: the ice freezing event consists of the freezing of a much larger fraction of the particles (e.g., 1 in 10) accompanied by a much less important vapor-phase mass transfer event.
Igneous Rocks of the Indian Ocean Floor.

Four dredge hauls from near the crest and from the eastern flank of the seismically active Mid-Indian Ocean Ridge at 23° to 24°S, at depths of 3700 to 4300 meters, produced only low-potassium tholeiitic basalt similar in chemical and mineralogic composition to basalts characteristic of ridges and rises in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. A fifth haul, from a depth of 4000 meters on the lower flank of a seamount on the ocean side of the Indonesian Trench, recovered tholeiitic basalt with higher concentrations of K and Ti and slightly lower amounts of Si and Ca than the typical-oceanic tholeiite of the ridge. The last sample is vesicular, suggesting depression of the area since the basalt was emplaced. Many of the rocks dredged are variously decomposed and hydrated, but there is no evidence of important chemical modification toward conversion of the lava flows to spilite during extrusion or solidification.
Model studies of intracellular acid-base temperature responses in ectotherms.

Abstract Measurements of intracellular pH (pHi) in air-breathing ectothenns have only been made in the steady state; these pHi indicate that protein charge state, measured as alpha imidazole (αim), the fractional dissociation of protein histidine imidazole groups, is preserved when ectotherm tissues change temperature in vivo, with related changes in pHi, and Pco2. In partial answer to the question of how such tissues are able to avoid disrupting transients to functions sensitive to protein charge states, model studies were carried out to assess the passive intracellular buffer system response to a combined change in body temperature and CO2 partial pressure as occurs in vivo in these species. The cell compartment was modeled as a closed volume of ternary buffer solution, containing protein imidazole (50 mM/1); phosphate (15 mM/1) and CO2-bicarbonate buffer components, permeable only to CO2 and permitted no change in buffer base. Excursions from a steady-state non-equilibrium pHi were computed to a step-change in temperature/Pco2. Computations for frog (Rana catesbeiana) striated muscle show that the calculated pHi response on the basis of estimated composition and concentrations of cell buffer components, moves along the curve describing the steady-state temperature relationship. No transient away from steady-state αin and carbon dioxide content need be postulated. Applications to turtle (Pseudemys scripta) striated muscle are also explored. These calculations show that ectotherm cells may be capable of responding without appreciable time for adaptation to intracellular acid-base state changes incurred by sudden alteration of body temperature in vivo, given the observed adjustments of blood Pco2 with temperature.
Women in computing programs: does the incredible shrinking pipeline apply to all computing programs?

Despite the fact that demand for employees with skills in computing still exceeds supply, there has been a steady decline in the number of women entering and graduating from computer science programs. Many attempts have been made to remedy the situation. A recurrent theme for both engineering and computer science programs is that programs can be made more attractive to women if they place a greater emphasis on applications of the technology. To date, most of the research on the under-representation of women has been conducted on computer science programs, and ignores the fact that many students enter the IT workplace with degrees in Information Systems (IS) or Information Technology (IT). Moreover, programs in IS and IT place a greater emphasis on applications. Given the reported importance of applications for the recruitment and retention of women, one might expect to see a higher participation of women in these programs. Using data obtained from baccalaureate or above institutions within the University System of Georgia, this paper shows that this indeed seems to be the case.
DNA methyltransferase and demethylase in human prostate cancer

Recent studies have shown that cytosine-5 methylation at CpG islands in the regulatory sequence of a gene is one of the key mechanisms of inactivation. The enzymes responsible for CpG methylation are DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) 1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b, and the enzyme responsible for demethylation is DNA demethylase (MBD2). Studies on methylation-demethylation enzymes are lacking in human prostate cancer. We hypothesize that MBD2 enzyme activity is repressed and that DNMT1 enzyme activity is elevated in human prostate cancer. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed enzyme activities, mRNA, and protein levels of MBD2 and DNMT1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b in human prostate cancer cell lines and tissues. The enzyme activities of DNMTs and MBD2 were analyzed by biochemical assay. The mRNA expression was analyzed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and by Northern blotting. The protein expression was measured by immunohistochemistry with specific antibodies. The results of these experiments demonstrated that (1) the activity of DNMTs was twofold to threefold higher in cancer cell lines and cancer tissues, as compared with a benign prostate epithelium cell line (BPH-1) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) tissues; (2) MBD2 activity was lacking in prostate cancer cell lines but present in BPH-1 cells; (3) immunohistochemical analyses exhibited higher expression of DNMT1 in all prostate cancer cell lines and cancer tissues, as compared with BPH-1 cell lines and BPH tissues; (4) MBD2 protein expression was significantly higher in BPH-1 cells and lacking in prostate cancer cell lines and, in BPH tissues, MBD2 protein expression was poorly observed, as compared with no expression in prostate cancer tissues; and (5) mRNA expression for DNMT1 was upregulated in prostate cancer, as compared with BPH-1, and mRNA expression for MBD2 was found to be significantly expressed in all cases. The results of these studies clearly demonstrate that DNMT1 activity is upregulated, whereas MBD2 is repressed at the level of translation in human prostate cancer. These results may demonstrate molecular mechanisms of CpG hypermethylation of various genes in prostate cancer.
Electronic and structural properties of a discommensurate monolayer system: GaAs(110)-(1 x 1)Bi.

We report the structural and electronic properties of a new ordered Bi(1\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}1) overlayer on cleaved GaAs(110) surfaces. Although some structural similarities exist between the ordered Bi monolayer and that for Sb, our studies show the following novel features: a periodic one-dimensional array of misfit dislocations, which appear to generate acceptor states that ``pin'' the Fermi level on n-type GaAs, and Bi-derived valence and conduction bands that extend into the GaAs band gap and are separated by 0.7 eV.
Application of the Orthogonalized-Plane-Wave Method to Lithium Chloride, Sodium Chloride, and Potassium Chloride

The orthogonalized-plane-wave method has been used to compute the energy bands of LiCl, NaCl, and KCl. General results are obtained that are valid for any diatomic lattice. Computer programs (which considerably reduce the labor of applying this method to a wide class of substances) have been developed and are discussed. The results are compared with those of recent calculations and experiments. In general, there seems to be a good correlation between the present results and those of experiment. It is suggested that the peculiar optical absorption of LiCl may be due to transitions from the valence band to the conduction band involving the line $\ensuremath{\Lambda}$ and the point $L$ in the Brillouin zone. The possibility of $X$ excitons in NaCl and LiCl is explored.
Innate sensing of malaria parasites

Innate immune receptors have a key role in immune surveillance by sensing microorganisms and initiating protective immune responses. However, the innate immune system is a classic 'double-edged sword' that can overreact to pathogens, which can have deleterious effects and lead to clinical manifestations. Recent studies have unveiled the complexity of innate immune receptors that function as sensors of Plasmodium spp. in the vertebrate host. This Review highlights the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which Plasmodium infection is sensed by different families of innate immune receptors. We also discuss how these events mediate both host resistance to infection and the pathogenesis of malaria.
Synthesis of 1,2-dihydro-1-phenylindeno[2,1-b]-phosphole as a potential precursor of a phosphapentalenyl anion

Abstract 3-Vinyl-1H-indene was employed for the first time as a diene in the McCormack cycloaddition with phenylphosphonous dibromide. The adduct was heated to rearrange the double bond, and on hydrolysis there was obtained 1,2,3,8-tetrahydro-1-phenylindeno[2,1-b]phosphole 1-oxide. The bromohydrin was formed with NBS in water; elimination of a molecule of HBr and of H2O gave 1,2-dihydro-1-phenylindeno[2,1-b]phosphole oxide (I). The phosphine was formed by de-oxygenation with HSiCl3-pyridine and has the proper saturation for formation of a benzophosphapentalenyl anion on abstraction of a proton. However, mixtures of products were obtained with various bases, and with t-butyllithium a 1,4-addition reaction occurred to form a compound identified as 3-tert-butyl-1,2,3,8-tetrahydro-1-phenylindeno[2,1-b]phosphole (isolated as the 1-oxide). Indications were obtained that n-butyllithium and lithium dicyclohexylamide also add to the diene unit of I. Another 1,4-addition (of the equivalent of H2 occurred with I when the HSiCl3 deoxygenation was attempted in the absence of pyridine. Products of this study were characterized by 31P and 13C NMR spectrometry. A new ring effect on 31P shifts was noted; relative to cyclohexano[b]phosphol-2-ene derivatives, cyclopentano[b]phosphol-2-ene consistently have shifts displaced by 10–15 ppm upfield.
Bringing the MCH Life Course Perspective to life.

It has been 10 years since Michael Lu and Neal Halfon published their landmark article on the MCH Life Course Perspective in this journal [1]. Since that time, the work of integrating the life course perspective into the field of maternal and child health has taken off. MCH Life Course theory and the emerging preconception care movement have reanimated earlier, historical conversations in MCH about health equity and social determinants of health and redirected our attention to the importance of early experiences and their influence on health longitudinally [2–8]. In fact, life course orientation has been a part of the MCH DNA for a long time as illustrated eloquently by Pauline Stitt who worked with the Children’s Bureau in 1960
Relationship between Antioxidant and Antihemolytic Activities of Vitamin E Derivatives In Vitro

Various derivatives of vitamin E and other antioxidants were evaluated in vitro for their antihemolytic effects on the blood from vitamin E-deficient rats. These results were compared with the activities of some of these compounds as antioxidants in protecting B-carotene from air oxidation in corn oil. The lack of a good correlation between these effects would indicate that different mechanisms are involved in their antihemolytic and antioxidant effects.
A conserved phosphorylation site within the forkhead domain of FoxM1b is required for its activation by cyclin-Cdk1

The Forkhead box M1 (FoxM1) transcription factor is critical for expression of the genes essential for G1/S transition and mitotic progression. To explore the cell cycle regulation of FoxM1, we examined the phosphorylation profile of FoxM1. Here, we show that the phosphorylated status and the activity of FoxM1 increase as cells progress from S to G2/M phases. Moreover, dephosphorylation of FoxM1 coincides with exit from mitosis. Using mass spectrometry, we have identified a new conserved phosphorylation site (Ser-251) within the forkhead domain of FoxM1. Disruption of Ser-251 inhibits phosphorylation of FoxM1 and dramatically decreases its transcriptional activity. We demonstrate that the Ser-251 residue is required for CDK1-dependent phosphorylation of FoxM1 as well as its interaction with the coactivator CREB-binding protein (CBP). Interestingly, the transcriptional activity of the S251A mutant protein remains responsive to activation by overexpressed Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1). Cells expressing the S251A mutant exhibit reduced expression of the G2/M phase genes and impaired mitotic progression. Our results demonstrate that the transcriptional activity of FoxM1 is controlled in a cell cycle-dependent fashion by temporally regulated phosphorylation and dephosphorylation events, and that the phosphorylation at Ser-251 is critical for the activation of FoxM1.
pro & con State Suits Against Health Reform Are Well Grounded In Law—And Pose Serious Challenges

This essay argues that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act exceeds Congress’s authority to regulate interstate commerce and its taxing power, and infringes on state prerogatives. The lawsuits that have been filed by states and individuals arguing these points raise serious legal issues, not the least of which is whether there are any constitutional limits remaining on government power. Because the new law is unprecedented—in both its regulatory scope and its expansion of federal authority—it is difficult to predict how courts will react. However, a holding that these measures were in fact constitutional would fundamentally alter the relationship of the federal government to the states and the people, as there would seem to be no constitutional limits on federal power.
Immunolocalization of mGluR1α in specific populations of local circuit neurons in the cerebral cortex

By coupling glutamate to the IP(3) signaling pathway, group I metabotropic receptors can increase intracellular Ca(2+) concentration, and might thus contribute to excitotoxicity. To identify neurons that might be vulnerable to such injury, we performed immunofluorescence histochemistry for metabotropic glutamate receptor 1alpha (mGluR1alpha) in the cerebral cortex of adult rat. mGluR1alpha was in somata and dendrites of a subset of non-pyramidal neurons scattered throughout the cerebral cortex. To further characterize mGluR1alpha-positive neurons, we investigated its colocalization with several neurochemical markers. Nearly all mGluR1alpha-positive cells were interneurons immunopositive for gamma-aminobutyric acid. The majority (70-80%) of mGluR1alpha-immunopositive neurons were double-labeled for somatostatin. Approximately half of calretinin-positive neurons and 30% of calbindin-positive neurons expressed mGluR1alpha. In contrast, parvalbumin-expressing neurons were rarely positive for mGluR1alpha. Neurons staining strongly for mGluR1alpha were also positive for GluR1. These results indicated that mGluR1alpha is expressed by specific classes of GABAergic neurons in the neocortex, and suggests a mechanism by which these neurons may be especially vulnerable to excitotoxic injury.
Lightweight approximate top-k for distributed settings

Consider the problem of finding the Top-k records in a relation based on the sum of their attributes. This problem occurs in various settings in big data management, for example in geographically distributed data centers and clouds, both at the application layer and the storage management layer. We propose a lightweight distributed, order and duplication insensitive approach based on order statistics. The salient feature of our algorithm that makes it extremely lightweight is that it only processes and communicates the items most likely to be in the Top-k. We validate the efficacy of our algorithm on a wide range of datasets.