cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Energy Calibration of Gamma Spectra in Plastic Scintillators using Compton Kinematics

This paper describes a simple and practicable method for assigning energy values to gamma-ray pulse-height distributions measured with polyvinyl toluene (PVT) based detectors. It is based upon the characteristic shape of simulated spectra in the region of maximum energy deposition resulting from a single Compton scattering. The validity of this method is demonstrated by applying it to a set of measured NaI(Tl) spectra, and comparing those results to the standard photopeak method of calibrating the same spectra. The method is then applied to a set of measured PVT spectra. It can now be applied to calibration of fielded PVT detectors using two selected gamma-ray sources, which was the initial motivation for this study.
Production of a sterile species via active-sterile mixing: An exactly solvable model

The production of a sterile species via active-sterile mixing in a thermal medium is studied in an exactly solvable model. The exact time evolution of the sterile distribution function is determined by the dispersion relations and damping rates ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{1,2}$ for the quasiparticle modes. These depend on $\stackrel{\texttildelow{}}{\ensuremath{\gamma}}={\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{aa}/2\ensuremath{\Delta}E$, with ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{aa}$ the interaction rate of the active species in absence of mixing and $\ensuremath{\Delta}E$ the oscillation frequency in the medium without damping. $\stackrel{\texttildelow{}}{\ensuremath{\gamma}}\ensuremath{\ll}1$, $\stackrel{\texttildelow{}}{\ensuremath{\gamma}}\ensuremath{\gg}1$ describe the weak and strong damping limits, respectively. For $\stackrel{\texttildelow{}}{\ensuremath{\gamma}}\ensuremath{\ll}1$, ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{1}={\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{aa}{cos﻿}^{2}{\ensuremath{\theta}}_{m}$; ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{2}={\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{aa}{sin﻿}^{2}{\ensuremath{\theta}}_{m}$ where ${\ensuremath{\theta}}_{m}$ is the mixing angle in the medium and the sterile distribution function does not obey a simple rate equation. For $\stackrel{\texttildelow{}}{\ensuremath{\gamma}}\ensuremath{\gg}1$, ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{1}={\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{aa}$ and ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{2}={\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{aa}{sin﻿}^{2}2{\ensuremath{\theta}}_{m}/4{\stackrel{\texttildelow{}}{\ensuremath{\gamma}}}^{2}$, is the sterile production rate. In this regime sterile production is suppressed and the oscillation frequency vanishes at an Mikheyev-Smirnov-Wolfenstein (MSW) resonance, with a breakdown of adiabaticity. These are consequences of quantum Zeno suppression. For active neutrinos with standard model interactions the strong damping limit is only available near an MSW resonance if $\mathrm{sin}﻿2\ensuremath{\theta}\ensuremath{\ll}{\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{w}$ with $\ensuremath{\theta}$ the vacuum mixing angle. The full set of quantum kinetic equations for sterile production for arbitrary $\stackrel{\texttildelow{}}{\ensuremath{\gamma}}$ are obtained from the quantum master equation. Cosmological resonant sterile neutrino production is quantum Zeno suppressed relieving potential uncertainties associated with the QCD phase transition.
Understanding Kant’s Duty of Respect as a Duty of Virtue

In the Doctrine of Virtue Kant declares that “Only an end that is also a duty can be called a duty of virtue” (MS 6:383). In the same text Kant refers to the duty of respect for others as a duty of virtue. It follows that the duty of respect must correspond to some end that is also a duty. What is this end? This paper endeavors to answer this question. Though Kant explicitly identifies two obligatory ends—one’s own perfection and the happiness of others (MS 6:385)—neither is a good candidate for the end which corresponds to the duty of respect. This paper examines two plausible candidates—others’ humanity and others’ self-esteem—arguing that the latter is preferable insofar as it accords better with what Kant says about the vice of defamation, respecting others in the logical use of their reason, and respectful beneficence.
A comparison of four techniques for measuring central adiposity in postpartum adolescents.

Objective : To develop a reliable office technique for measuring central body fat in postpartum adolescents, we compared: first, a direct sonographic measurement of visceral adiposity to measurements of visceral and subcutaneous abdominal adiposity by computed tomography (CT); and second, skinfold caliper and sonographic measurements of subcutaneous adipose tissue distribution to CT measurements of visceral and subcutaneous abdominal adiposity. Methods : Postpartum adipose tissue distribution was assessed in 15 teenagers by measuring the thickness of the subcutaneous fat at six body sites with skinfold calipers and ultrasound. Visceral adiposity was measured directly by ultrasound and CT. Taking the CT measurements as the standards, Pearson correlations and regression analyses were used to compare ultrasound measurement of visceral adiposity and the skinfold caliper and sonographic measurements of subcutaneous adipose tissue distribution. Results : All of the adiposity measurements correlated significantl...
Muscle specific kinase autoimmune myasthenia gravis in children: A case series

We report clinical, neurophysiological and autoantibody profiles of 9 children presenting with fatigable weakness and MuSK autoantibody seropositivity. Eight were female, 3 were black; median onset age was 8 years. Diplopia or bulbar dysfunction were common presenting symptoms. Half of the patients experienced moderate to severe weakness of bulbar, facial and respiratory muscles (including exacerbations requiring mechanical ventilation). Muscle AChR antibodies were detected transiently in 2 patients but no other autoantibodies were detected. Clinical response to treatment was variable and incomplete. No thymic abnormalities were noted by CT or pathologically (3 underwent thymectomy). Electromyographic (EMG) abnormalities (decrement of compound muscle action potential amplitude during slow repetitive nerve stimulation and variation in individual motor unit potentials) were limited to clinically weak muscles. Single fiber EMG demonstrated abnormalities in an asymptomatic muscle in the single patient studied. As in adults, MuSK autoimmune MG presents more commonly in females, and weakness preferentially affects bulbar, facial and respiratory muscles. Morbidity is significant and responses to standard therapies are variable and incomplete. Neurophysiological confirmation is more challenging in children because testing of weak muscles (cranial nerve-innervated and respiratory) may require moderate sedation and monitoring.
Exaggerated Airway Wall Eosinophilia and Physiologic Dysfunction in Asthma-like Airways after Chronic Alternaria Exposure in Rats

function in Asthma-like Airways after Chronic Alternaria Exposure in Rats R. L. Sorkness1, K. M. Herricks1, R. J. Szakaly2, R. F. Lemanske, Jr.2, L. A. Rosenthal2; 1School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 2Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI. RATIONALE: Allergy to Alternaria (ALT) is a risk factor for asthma inception and asthma fatalities. We hypothesized that airways with preexisting asthma-like pathology would be more vulnerable than normal airways to ALT allergen exposure. METHODS: Rats with a chronic asthma-like condition (airway obstruction, hyperresponsiveness, and remodeling) were created by inducing a viral bronchiolitis at an early age, and were compared with sham-inoculated controls. After 8 wks recovery from viral illness, all rats were sensitized to crude ALT extract via s.c. injection. After baseline physiology studies (forced expiratory maneuvers, lung volumes, and lung elastic recoil in lightly anesthetized, intubated animals), rats were exposed to aerosolized ALT or PBS once weekly X6 wks. Physiology studies were repeated, and right lung bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and left lung quantitative histology were employed to evaluate inflammation 5 days after the final challenge. RESULTS: Although both asthma-like and control rats had ALT-induced decreases in FEV0.2/FVC ratio (p<.05), only the asthma-like rats had ALTinduced losses of lung elastic recoil (p<.02). The ALT-challenged asthmalike rats had marked increases in airway wall eosinophils (p<.0001), and increased goblet cells in small airways (p<.01), while no eosinophils were detected in BAL fluid. In contrast, ALT-challenged controls had only small numbers of eosinophils in both BAL and airway walls. CONCLUSIONS: Pre-existing asthma-like airway pathology alters the response to ALT allergen, resulting in persistent eosinophilic airway wall infiltrates, goblet cell metaplasia, and reduced lung elastic recoil–all features of severe asthma in humans. Funding: NIH NHLBI
Diversity research literature in school psychology: 1990–1999

This study is an extension of an initial study conducted by Wiese Rogers in 1992 that examined the diversity literature in school psychology journals. The purpose of this study was to review all research published in four major school psychology journals during the decade of the 90s for diversity content to determine if there had been an increase. Results indicated that 10.6% of the articles have diversity as a focus, a slight increase over Wiese Rogers's findings. Assessment continues to be the area that has the greatest number of diversity articles. Six reasons are proposed for the continued gap in the literature base. Implications for the field of school psychology and suggestions for increasing diversity articles are provided. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photosynthesis and Yellow Vine Syndrome of American Cranberry

The American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) contains rich antioxidants and has significant health benefits in fighting a variety of human diseases. In the past ten years, cranberry growers have reported yellow vine syndrome, which is associated with reduced photosynthetic performance, in the cranberry bogs. It has been found that the yellow vine syndrome of cranberry is associated with nutritional imbalance; it might be an issue for cranberry quality and food security as well as the crop production. This review evaluates the present state of knowledge of yellow vine syndrome, together with recent advances that are resulting from an improved mechanistic understanding and a possible solution that will be of considerable value to cranberry growers. This review also includes results from the author’s own laboratory. Water stress, nutritional imbalance, and photoinhibition are the likely reasons for producing yellow vine of cranberry. Future endeavors should be placed on the combination of genetic, biochemical, and biophysical techniques at the molecular level and plant physiology at the field and greenhouse level. This may provide specific information in order to understand the molecular details of yellow vine of cranberry as well as a tool for guiding future breeding efforts and management practices.
Order matrix analysis of residual dipolar couplings using singular value decomposition.

The measurement of anisotropic spin interactions, such as residual dipolar couplings, in partially ordered solutions can provide valuable information on biomolecular structure. While the information can be used to refine local structure, it can make a unique contribution in determining the relative orientation of remote parts of molecules, which are locally well structured, but poorly connected based on NOE data. Analysis of dipolar couplings in terms of Saupe order matrices provides a concise description of both orientation and motional properties of locally structured fragments in these cases. This paper demonstrates that by using singular value decomposition as a method for calculating the order matrices, principal frames and order parameters can be determined efficiently, even when a very limited set of experimental data is available. Analysis of 1H-15N dipolar couplings, measured in a two-domain fragment of the barley lectin protein, is used to illustrate the computational method.
Median Nerve Afferent Action Potential Recorded at the Wrist

Median nerve afferent action potentials can be recorded at the wrist in response to a current pulse applied to the index and middle fingers. Latencies of such action potentials have diagnostic value; however, because of difficulties in recording techniques, such latency measurements have not been used widely in clinical environments. A recording technique with very little stimulus artifact is presented.
Delivery of Retinoid-Based Therapies To Target Tissues †

Through its various metabolites, vitamin A controls essential physiological functions. Both naturally occurring metabolites and novel retinoid analogues have shown effectiveness in many clinical settings that include skin diseases and cancer, and in animal models of human conditions affecting vision. In this review, we analyze several potential retinoid-based therapies from the point of view of drug metabolism and transport to target tissues. We focus on the endogenous factors that affect the absorption, transport, and metabolism of retinoids by taking into account data obtained from the analysis of animal models that lack the enzymes or proteins involved in the storage and absorption of retinoids. We also discuss findings of toxicity associated with retinoids in an effort to improve the outcome of retinoid-based therapies. In this context, we review evidence that esterification of retinol and retinol-based drugs within target tissues provides one of the most efficient means to improve the absorption and to reduce the toxicity associated with pharmacological doses of retinoids. Future retinoid-based therapeutic strategies could involve targeted delivery mechanisms leading to lower toxicity and improved effectiveness of retinoids.
A one-way dual-domain propagator for scalar qP-waves in VTI media

In this paper, we present an anisotropic one-way propagator for modeling and imaging quasi-P (qP) waves in transversely isotropic media with a vertically symmetric axis (VTI media). We derive the dispersion relation for a scalar qP-wave using elastic wave equations for anisotropic media. By applying a rational approximation to the dispersion relation, we obtain a one-way, dual-domain, scalar qP-wave propagator for heterogeneous VTI media. The propagator includes a phase-shift term and both phase-screen and large-angle correction terms. The phase-shift term is implemented in the wavenumber domain, while the other terms are implemented in the space domain. Fourier transformations are used to shuttle the wavefield between the two domains. This propagator can be used to propagate qP-wavefields within an isotropic or a VTI medium, with either medium containing lateral heterogeneities. Error analysis of the impulse response and dispersion relations demonstrates that the propagator is accurate and stable and has a wide-angle capability. The application of the propagator to the imaging of qP-wave data with VTI models which contain complex structures and large perturbations of velocity and anisotropy results in excellent image quality. This demonstrates the potential value of the propagator for use in modeling and imaging qP-wavefields within strongly heterogeneous VTI media.
Effects of temperature and dietary sucrose concentration on respiration in the silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia argentifolii.

A system consisting of a flow-through chamber connected to a commercial infrared gas analysis system was developed to measure homopteran respiration during feeding. Using this system, respiration rates of 202 and 206 µmol CO(2) h(-1) g(-1) (4.96 and 5.04 ml CO(2) h(-1) g(-1)) were determined for whiteflies and cotton aphids, respectively, at 25 degrees C on diets containing 15% sucrose. These rates were considerably higher than those of other stationary insects, indicating that whiteflies and aphids maintain a relatively high metabolic rate when feeding. Whitefly respiration increased with temperature from 25 to 46 degrees C with a Q(10) of about 2 on diets containing 10, 15 and 20% sucrose, but less than 2 on diets containing 2.5 and 5% sucrose. Respiration rates were similar on the diets containing >10% sucrose, but were generally lower on the diets containing <10% sucrose. Respiration rates decreased upon extended exposure to 47 degrees C; the rate of decrease was inversely related to the dietary sucrose concentration up to 15%. The results indicate that whiteflies require a sucrose concentration of between 5 and 10% (i.e. 0.15 and 0.3 M) for maximum rates of metabolism while feeding. Higher concentrations of sucrose in the diet delayed high-temperature mortality, possibly a reflection of the high sucrose requirement for sorbitol synthesis in whiteflies.
Stability of the pseudo-inverse method for reconfigurable control systems

Abstract One of the key reconfigurable control methods, the pseudo-inverse method (PIM), is analysed and new insight is obtained which provides the theoretical basis for this practical approach. The main shortcoming of this method, the lack of stability guarantees, is pointed out and a new approach is proposed in which recent results on the stability robustness of linear systems are used to provide stability constraints for the solutions of the PIM. When the original PIM solution results in an unstable closed-loop system, the control redesign problem is treated as a constraint minimization problem. For single-input systems, a closed-form solution is presented; for multi-input systems, a near-optimal solution is found which maintains the stability of the closed-loop system.
Empirical results on anytime propositional reasoning

An anytime family of propositional reasoners is a sequence |-/sub 0/,|-/sub 1/,...of inference relations such that each |-/sub k/ is sound, tractable, and makes more inferences than |-/sub k-1/, and each theory has a complete reasoner in the family. Anytime families are useful for resource-bounded reasoning in knowledge representation systems. We describe implementations of an anytime family {|-/sub k/} of clausal propositional reasoners using three different strategies. We present empirical results comparing the three strategies, the completeness of reasoning, the time for making inferences, and the space used for reasoning. Our results show that the reasoners with higher values of k infer significantly more formulas than reasoners with lower valves of k, and the time for inferencing decreases significantly as k is increased from 0 to 2.
Apricitabine: A Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor for HIV Infection

Objective:To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of apricitabine, a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor that is currently under investigation and has fast-track approval status with the Food and Drug Administration.Data Sources:A literature search was conducted using PubMed (1966–June 2009) to retrieve relevant material using the search terms apricitabine, SPD754, and AVX754. References from selected articles were evaluated to identify other pertinent trials. Information was also obtained from the manufacturer.Study Selection and Data Extraction:All English-language in vitro and in vivo studies and abstracts evaluating apricitabine were reviewed and considered for inclusion. Preference was given to human data.Data Synthesis:Apricitabine is a prodrug that is phosphorylated to its active triphosphate form intracellularly, which ultimately results in chain termination and inhibition of reverse transcription. Apricitabine is administered orally, displays linear pharmacokinet...
Modeling surface-flow characteristics in glaciated landscapes

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) hydrologic modeling techniques are used to better understand the surface-flow characteristics in the Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) of North America. This research uses an airborne Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (IFSAR)-derived digital terrain model (DTM) as a base for developing a hydrologically-correct DEM and derivative products. The IFSAR DTM is assessed for accuracy and ability to resolve wetland features. A wetland mask is developed to selectively fill the DTM and from it products such as wetland catchments and drainage linkages are derived and interpreted. Study sites in the PPR are two surveyed and closely monitored wetland complexes, Crystal Springs and Orchid Meadows in Deuel County, South Dakota, USA.
Popliteal Entrapment Syndrome: a Case Report

We report a case of bilateral popliteal entrapment syndrome due to a varia tion of Type III anomaly. Review of the literature revealed that this condition is not well known. The clinical picture and mechanism are presented, and di agnostic modalities and surgical ap proaches are discussed.
Megasonic cleaning of wafers in electrolyte solutions: Possible role of electro-acoustic and cavitation effects

Investigations have been conducted on the feasibility of removal of particles from silicon wafers in electrolyte solutions of different ionic strengths irradiated with megasonic waves. Cleaning experiments have been performed using potassium chloride (KCl) as a model electrolyte and silica particles as model contaminant particles. Particle removal efficiency (PRE) increases with KCl concentration and transducer power density and much lower power densities may be used at higher KCl concentration for a comparable level of cleaning. Enhanced cleaning in KCl solutions has been explained as due to two types of electro-acoustic potentials, namely, ionic vibration potential (IVP) and colloidal vibration potential (CVP) that arise when the sound wave propagates through the electrolyte solution. Theoretical computations have shown that the removal forces due to CVP are much larger in magnitude than those due to IVP and are comparable to van der Waals adhesion forces. The effect of ionic strength on cavitation has been investigated through the measurement of acoustic pressure in solutions using a hydrophone. Using Fourier transformation of time dependent pressure data, the size distribution of stable bubbles in KCl solutions of different concentration has been obtained.
Soy and the prevention of lifestyle-related diseases

1. Epidemiological studies suggest that consumption of soy foods is associated with reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, and breast and prostate cancers. 2. Clinical intervention studies indicate that some soy components, especially soy isoflavone-containing soy protein isolate, reduced serum total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol. 3. Animal studies generally support the conclusion that some soy components prevent the development and progression of breast and prostate cancers. 4. Epidemiological investigations and intervention studies suggest that some soy products are effective for the relief of menopausal symptoms.
Serotonin and the Mammalian Circadian System: I. In Vitro Phase Shifts by Serotonergic Agonists and Antagonists:

The primary mammalian circadian clock, located in the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), receives a major input from the raphe nuclei. The role of this input is largely unknown, and is the focus of this research. The SCN clock survives in vitro, where it produces a 24-hr rhythm in spontaneous neuronal activity that is sustained for at least three cycles. The sensitivity of the SCN clock to drugs can therefore be tested in vitro by determining whether various compounds alter the phase of this rhythm. We have previously shown that the nonspecific serotonin (5-HT) agonist quipazine resets the SCN clock in vitro, inducing phase advances in the daytime and phase delays at night. These results suggest that the 5-HT-ergic input from the raphe nuclei can modulate the phase of the SCN circadian clock. In this study we began by using autoradiography to determine that the SCN contain abundant 5-HT1A and 5-HT1B receptors, very few 5-HT1C and 5-HT2 receptors, and no 5-HT3 receptors. Next we investigated the ability of 5-HT-ergic agonists and antagonists to reset the clock in vitro, in order to determine what type or types of 5-HT receptor(s) are functionally linked to the SCN clock. We began by providing further evidence of 5-HT-ergic effects in the SCN. We found that 5-HT mimicked the effects of quipazine, whereas the nonspecific 5-HT antagonist metergoline blocked these effects, in both the day and night. Next we found that the 5-HT1A agonist 8-OH-DPAT, and to a lesser extent the 5-HT1A-1B agonist RU 24969, mimicked the effects of quipazine during the subjective daytime, whereas the 5-HT1A antagonist NAN-190 blocked quipazine's effects. None of the other specific agonists or antagonists we tried induced similar effects. This suggests that quipazine acts on 5-HT1A receptors in the daytime to advance the SCN clock. None of the specific agents we tried were able either to mimic or to block the actions of 5-HT or quipazine at circadian time 15. Thus, we were unable to determine the type of 5-HT receptor involved in nighttime phase delays by quipazine or 5-HT. However, since the dose-response curves for quipazine during the day and night are virtually identical, we hypothesize that the nighttime 5-HT receptor is a 5-HT1-like receptor.
Periplasmic Cytochrome c3 of Desulfovibrio vulgaris Is Directly Involved in H2-Mediated Metal but Not Sulfate Reduction

Kinetic parameters and the role of cytochrome c(3) in sulfate, Fe(III), and U(VI) reduction were investigated in Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough. While sulfate reduction followed Michaelis-Menten kinetics (K(m) = 220 micro M), loss of Fe(III) and U(VI) was first-order at all concentrations tested. Initial reduction rates of all electron acceptors were similar for cells grown with H(2) and sulfate, while cultures grown using lactate and sulfate had similar rates of metal loss but lower sulfate reduction activities. The similarities in metal, but not sulfate, reduction with H(2) and lactate suggest divergent pathways. Respiration assays and reduced minus oxidized spectra were carried out to determine c-type cytochrome involvement in electron acceptor reduction. c-type cytochrome oxidation was immediate with Fe(III) and U(VI) in the presence of H(2), lactate, or pyruvate. Sulfidogenesis occurred with all three electron donors and effectively oxidized the c-type cytochrome in lactate- or pyruvate-reduced, but not H(2)-reduced cells. Correspondingly, electron acceptor competition assays with lactate or pyruvate as electron donors showed that Fe(III) inhibited U(VI) reduction, and U(VI) inhibited sulfate loss. However, sulfate reduction was slowed but not halted when H(2) was the electron donor in the presence of Fe(III) or U(VI). U(VI) loss was still impeded by Fe(III) when H(2) was used. Hence, we propose a modified pathway for the reduction of sulfate, Fe(III), and U(VI) which helps explain why these bacteria cannot grow using these metals. We further propose that cytochrome c(3) is an electron carrier involved in lactate and pyruvate oxidation and is the reductase for alternate electron acceptors with higher redox potentials than sulfate.
Left ventricular assist device support normalizes left and right ventricular beta-adrenergic pathway properties

Objectives We hypothesized that some aspects of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) reverse remodeling could be independent of hemodynamic factors and would primarily depend upon normalization of neurohormonal milieu. Background The relative contributions of LVAD-induced hemodynamic unloading (provided to the left ventricle [LV]) and normalized neurohormonal milieu (provided to LV and right ventricle [RV]) to reverse remodeling are not understood. Methods Structural and functional characteristics were measured from hearts of 65 medically managed transplant patients (MED), 30 patients supported with an LVAD, and 5 nonfailing donor hearts not suitable for transplantation. Results Compared with MED patients, diastolic pulmonary pressures trended lower (p Conclusions Improved beta-adrenergic responsiveness, normalization of the RyR2 PKA phosphorylation, and increased beta-adrenergic receptor density in LV and RV after LVAD support suggest a primary role of neurohormonal environment in determining reverse remodeling of the beta-adrenergic pathway.
Analyzing the Data Collected by Programming Tutors that Provide Post-Practice Reflection

We used megavariate analysis techniques to analyze the post-practice reflection data collected by our programming tutors. We found that correctly solving the problem is closely associated with the number of attempts needed by the learner to identify the underlying concept during reflection.
A hierarchical approach for energy efficient application design using heterogeneous embedded systems

Several features such as reconfiguration, voltage and frequency scaling, low-power operating states, duty-cycling, etc. are exploited for latency and energy efficient application design using heterogeneous embedded systems. However, more choices during application design results in a large design space that must be traversed efficiently. In this paper, we propose a hierarchical methodology that integrates optimization heuristics, high-level performance estimators, and low-level simulators to enable efficient exploration of large design spaces. Our methodology is fast, robust against approximation errors due to high-level modeling, and can evaluate a much larger design space than an optimization heuristic only design space exploration technique. We have augmented MILAN, a model-based integrated simulation framework for embedded systems, to develop an environment to perform hierarchical design space exploration. Using our methodology for a beamforming application, we identify an energy-efficient mapping onto a heterogeneous embedded system while meeting a given latency constraint. We also demonstrate the use of our methodology in identifying an energy and latency efficient heterogeneous embedded system based on user-specified performance requirements for a personnel detection algorithm from a set of devices that includes FPGAs, DSPs, and traditional processors.
A mutant of protein phosphatase-1 that exhibits altered toxin sensitivity.

Abstract A chimeric mutant was constructed in which a 4-amino acid region (GEFD, residues 274-277) of rabbit muscle protein phosphatase-1 was replaced with the sequence YRCG corresponding to residues 267-270 of rabbit protein phosphatase-2A. This was based on the findings of a gene mutation in okadaic acid-resistant cells which results in a Cys-->Gly conversion in protein phosphatase-2A. The YRCG mutant of protein phosphatase-1 was expressed and purified. The properties of the mutant enzyme were investigated in terms of its sensitivity toward several toxin inhibitors (okadaic acid, microcystin, nodularin, calyculin A, and cantharidic acid), as well as inhibitor-2. The mutant enzyme exhibited a gain of function in the form of a 10-fold increased sensitivity toward okadaic acid that suggests this region is involved in toxin binding. Significant changes in sensitivity to inhibitor-2 and several of the other toxins were also observed, indicating that these may have a common binding region.
Thestral incognitus, a new genus and species of Pentatomidae from Chile (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae: Pentatominae: Carpocorini).

Thestral incognitus , new genus and species of Pentatomidae (Pentatominae: Carpocorini) is described from central Chile. The relationships among this new genus and other South American genera are discussed. Also, similarities are noted between Thestral and the Australian genus Poecilotoma . Poecilotoma is tentatively placed in the Carpocorini. A key to aid in the recognition of the genera of Chilean Carpocorini is provided.
On the complexity of generating optimal test sequences

The authors investigate whether maximal overlapping of protocol test subsequences can be achieved in polynomial time. They review the concepts related to FSM (finite state machine)-based test sequence generation and then define the optimal test sequence generation (OTSG) problem. It is proved that the OTSG problem is NP-complete. Therefore an efficient solution to the problem should not be expected in the general case. >
An Early-Nineteenth Century Life of John Donne: An Edition with Notes and Commentary

In this article, Shawcross edits a manuscript in the Rutgers University Library, entitled "Some Curious Particulars of the very learned and reverend John Donne" and dated 1821. The manuscript has antiquarian interest, historical value in a study of biography, and significance for a full awareness of Donne's reputation.
A Pilot Study of Pepsin in Tracheal and Oral Secretions

BACKGROUND Because reflux of gastric juice into the oropharynx must precede its aspiration into the lungs, it is reasonable to hypothesize that the detection of pepsin (the major gastric enzyme in gastric juice) in oral secretions may provide a relatively noninvasive method of predicting risk for aspiration. OBJECTIVE To describe the incidence of pepsin in oral and tracheal secretions collected concurrently from a sample of 50 gastric-fed patients undergoing mechanical ventilation. METHODS An exploratory descriptive design with a convenience sample from 4 medical and surgical intensive care units. An oral secretion and a tracheal secretion were collected concurrently from each patient (yielding a sample of 50 oral and 50 tracheal secretions). The tracheal secretions were obtained via the inline suction system with an attached sputum trap; oral secretions were obtained via a Yankauer suction tip with an attached sputum trap. All specimens were assayed for pepsin by the Western blot method. RESULTS Oral secretions from 10 patients (20%) and tracheal secretions from 2 patients (4%) were pepsin-positive. Both patients with pepsin-positive tracheal secretions also had pepsin-positive oral secretions. Pepsin was not found in the tracheal secretions from the remaining 8 patients with pepsin-positive oral secretions. CONCLUSIONS Although reflux of gastric juice into the oropharynx must precede its aspiration into the lungs, individual reflux events do not necessarily lead to aspiration. Thus, it is reasonable that we found pepsin 5 times more often in oral secretions than in tracheal secretions.
Immunoglobulin A (IgA) Is a Natural Ligand of Hepatitis A Virus Cellular Receptor 1 (HAVCR1), and the Association of IgA with HAVCR1 Enhances Virus-Receptor Interactions

The hepatitis A virus cellular receptor 1 (HAVCR1/TIM1), a member of the T-cell immunoglobulin mucin (TIM) family, is an important atopy susceptibility gene in humans. The exact natural function of HAVCR1/TIM1 and the inverse association between HAV infection and prevention of atopy are not well understood. To identify natural ligands of human HAVCR1/TIM1, we used an expression cloning strategy based on the binding of dog cells transfected with a human lymph node cDNA library to a HAVCR1/TIM1 Fc fusion protein. The transfected cells that bound to the human HAVCR1/TIM1 Fc contained cDNA of human immunoglobulin alpha 1 heavy (Igα1) and lambda light (Igλ) chain and secreted human IgA1λ antibody that bound to the cell surface. Cotransfection of the isolated Igα1 and Igλ cDNAs to naive dog cells resulted in the secretion of IgA1λ that bound to HAVCR1/TIM1 Fc but not to a poliovirus receptor Fc fusion protein in a capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The interaction of HAVCR1/TIM1 with IgA was inhibited by monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against Igα1 and Igλ, excess IgA1λ, or anti-HAVCR1/TIM1 MAb. IgA did not inhibit HAV infection of African green monkey cells, suggesting that the IgA and the virus binding sites are in different epitopes on HAVCR1/TIM1. IgA enhanced significantly the neutralization of HAV by HAVCR1/TIM1 Fc. Our results indicate that IgA1λ is a specific ligand of HAVCR1/TIM1 and that their association has a synergistic effect in virus-receptor interactions.
Postexposure prophylaxis for HIV.

Public health measures for HIV prevention have focused on limiting exposure through condom use, needle-exchange programs, education, and safety
Phase-matched filters: Application to the study of Love waves

abstract Seismic surface waves are usually composed of overlapping wave trains representing multipath propagation. A first task in the analysis of such waves is to identify and separate the various component wave trains so that each can be analyzed separately. Phase-matched filters are a class of linear filters in which the Fourier phase of the filter is made equal to that of a given signal. Herrin and Goforth (1977) described an iterative technique which can be used to find a phase-matched filter for a particular component of a seismic signal. Application of the filters to digital records of Rayleigh waves allowed multiple arrivals to be identified and removed, and allowed recovery of the complex spectrum of the primary wave train along with its apparent group-velocity dispersion curve. A comparable analysis of Love waves presents additional complications. Love waves are contaminated by both Love and Rayleigh multipathing and by primary off-axis Rayleigh energy. In the case of explosions, there is much less energy generated as Love waves than as Rayleigh waves. The applicability of phase-matched filtering to Love waves is demonstrated by its use on earthquakes occurring in the Norwegian Sea and near Iceland and on a nuclear explosion in Novaya Zemlya. Despite severe multipathing in two of the three events, the amplitude and phase of each of the primary Love waves were recovered without significant distortion.
An active life is a sweet life

Initiation or maintenance of an active lifestyle is often recommended to promote physical and mental wellbeing. Exercise can be a challenge for many people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes because of fl uctuations in insulin sensitivity that can result in either hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia. Use of continuous, subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy via an insulin pump is increasingly popular for active patients because of the ability to set temporary basal infusion rates, allowing for minute-by-minute alterations in dosing regimens. Additionally, contemporary insulin pumps are small and can be comfortably worn even during periods of prolonged exercise. Health-care providers can help with the construction of individualised dosing regimens that can be safely used during exercise and thus encourage patients with diabetes to celebrate their physical health and get out there and enjoy the scenery!
Idiopathic laryngotracheal stenosis

Idiopathic laryngotracheal stenosis (ILTS) is a rare inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. Infectious, traumatic and immunologic processes must first be excluded. The majority of patients affected are female who present with progressive symptoms of upper airway obstruction, which can extend over a number of years. ILTS is characterized by short segment, circumferential stenotic lesions, located particularly at the level of the cricoid. Bronchoscopic evaluation is essential for establishing the diagnosis and operative planning. Various temporizing interventions have historically been utilized, including dilation and laser ablation, for symptomatic management. However these interventions have demonstrated diminishing returns and poor long-term outcomes. Patients with ILTS should be considered early for definitive surgical intervention to minimize complications and optimize outcomes. Laryngotracheal resection and reconstruction is a viable intervention, which has demonstrated good long-term results and low recurrence rates for this patient population.
Cosmology: Home of a fast radio burst.

Our understanding of fast radio bursts — intense pulses of radio waves — and their use as cosmic probes promises to be transformed now that one burst has been associated with a galaxy of known distance from Earth. See Letter p.453 This paper reports the discovery, with the Parkes radio telescope, of a fast radio burst, FRB 150418. A multi-wavelength multi-telescope follow-up study detected a radio transient two hours after the initial burst, lasting about six days before fading to a quiescent level. The authors interpret this fading source as the afterglow of the FRB. Fast radio bursts are transient radio pulses lasting only a few milliseconds and previously it has not been possible to localize such a burst and determine a redshift. The source of FRB 150418 is identified as an elliptical galaxy with redshift of 0.492.
Phase II study of Cediranib (RECENTIN™, AZD2171) in recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer

B263 Background: Cediranib is a highly selective and potent oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) of VEGFR1, VEGFR2, c-Kit, and VEGFR3. Angiogenesis is important for ovarian cancer growth, and blocking angiogenesis can lead to ovarian cancer regression. Methods: This is a CTEP-sponsored phase II study (NCI#7102) of single agent cediranib for recurrent ovarian, peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer. Eligibility include: previous platinum-based chemotherapy, up to 2 prior lines of chemotherapy in the recurrent setting, ECOG PS of 0 or 1, controlled BP, and normal organ function. 23 patients have been enrolled thus far. Primary endpoint of the study is response rate measured either by RECIST or modified GCIG CA125 criteria, and secondary endpoints include progression-free survival, toxicity, and PD endpoints. Results: Of the first 23 patients (pts) enrolled, 18 are evaluable for toxicity and tumor response; the remaining 5 pts have not been on study drug long enough for toxicity and response evaluation. 15 of the 18 evaluable pts have recurrent ovarian cancer; 3 had recurrent peritoneal cancer. 8 pts had platinum-sensitive and 10 had platinum-resistant cancer. The starting Phase II dose was 45 mg PO, but because of toxicities observed in the first 11 patients, the dose was lowered to 30 mg for subsequent pts. In the first 18 pts, grade 3 toxicities include: HTN (n=8; 5 pts on 45 mg and 3 pts on 30 mg), fatigue (n=5), abdominal pain (n=1), diarrhea (n=4), vomiting (n=2), oral cavity pain (n=2), nausea (n=1), constipation (n=1), hyponatremia (n=1), and hypothyroidism (n=1). One pt had grade 4 CNS hemorrhage (45 mg dose). No cardiac toxicities nor bowel perforations or fistulas have been reported thus far. Grade I/II thyroid toxicities were reported. Of tumor responses, 3 pts have had confirmed PR’s (1 pt with platinum-sens and 2 platinum-resistant cancer and all on 45 mg) lasting 11, 12, and 25 weeks (overall RR of 17%), and 2 SD lasting 30 weeks and 16+ weeks. The remaining 13 pts have been removed for either toxicities or PD. Conclusions: Cediranib is an active drug in the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer with an acceptable toxicity profile, similar to that observed with other TKI’s and warrants further study.
Enrique Marco Dorta, Cartagena de Indias. La ciudad y sus monumentos

(1952). Enrique Marco Dorta, Cartagena de Indias. La ciudad y sus monumentos. The Art Bulletin: Vol. 34, No. 4, pp. 322-324.
Neutralization of mycobacteriophages by sera of patients with and without sarcoidosis.

SummaryOf 70 sera from different patients with sarcoidosis serum neutralization activity could be demonstrated in 91-98% against mycobacteriophages D29, Leo, or R1. Of 81 sera from nonsarcoid patients, neutralizing activity was demonstrated in 83-85% against phages D29 and Leo, and in 100% against phages R1. In test using phage R1, the magnitude of the K values of sera of patients not having sarcoidosis was much larger than those of patients with sarcoidosis.
Development, Oviposition, and Longevity of Ahasverus advena

Development of foreign grain beetles from oviposition to adult took 22.5 days at 75% RH and 27°C in a rolled oats-yeast medium. Under favorable conditions, they usually developed 4 and sometimes 5 instars. Prepupal and pupal stages ranged from 1 to 2, and 3 to 5 days, respectively High humidities (92, 85, and 75%) favored rapid growth, but at 58% RH larvae did not complete development. Eggs/female/135 days averaged 198 at 75% RH and 27°C. Oviposition rates were extremely low at 58% RH, normal at 75% RH, and changed with transfer of females to 58% and back to 75% RH. Longevity of mated males and females averaged 159 and 208 days, respectively; of unmated, 275 and 301 days, respectively.
Practical Methods of Year-Round Laboratory Rearing of the Silkworm, Bombyx mori (L.) (Lepidoptera, Bombycidae)

Methods of rearing the silkworm, Bombyx mori (L.), on a commercial scale are well established. In commercial culture, however, silkworms are reared only during the seasons when fresh mulberry leaves, the only suitable food for optimal development of the larvae, are available. The silkworm has been used with great success in many important physiological and biochemical studies, but the main obstacle to its general use as a laboratory insect has been the inability to rear this insect continuously throughout the year. We have been successful in rearing larvae in the laboratory even during the winter by employing the procedures described below.
The long goodbye: A test of grief as a social signal

The human grief response has perplexed researchers. Grief is costly, leading to painful and potentially deleterious symptoms. Yet, it is a human universal. We argue that grief functions as a hard-to-fake signal of underlying capacities to form strong social bonds. If so, those who grieve more intensively than others should be perceived as higher quality social partners. We tested this hypothesis in 4 studies. High grievers were rated as nicer, more loyal, and more trustworthy than low grievers. High grievers were also expected to cooperate in a prisoner’s dilemma more than low grievers. Last, high grievers were chosen as a trusted social partner more than another individual who expressed sadness for lost material items, indicating that grief may be a specific display of distress that is particularly informative to potential social partners. These results support a signaling theory of grief and are discussed in that context.
Identical-twin (syngeneic) marrow transplantation for hematologic cancers

The Seattle Marrow Transplant Team treated about 130 patients (age 4-68 yr) for hematologic cancer with supralethal chemoradiotherapy and bone marrow transplantation (BMT) from the normal genetically identical twin. The procedure was well tolerated. The principal problem was tumor resistance. Nevertheless, BMT for acute leukemia in relapse still cured about 20% of the patients. Moreover, BMT performed while in complete remission cured about 50% of patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia or acute nonlymphocytic leukemia. Sixteen patients received transplantation in the chronic phase of Ph1+ chronic granulocytic leukemia (CGL). All showed disappearance of all Ph1+ cells. Two died of pneumonitis. Of the 14 who are alive, 3 continue to have CGL 37-76 months after BMT and 11 remain in complete hematologic and cytogenetic remission without any Ph1+ metaphases at 31-108 months (median = 68) after BMT. Thus the Ph1-positive clone can be ablated and blast crisis prevented. BMT in the accelerated or blastic phase was far less effective. Syngeneic BMT also benefited or cured patients with lymphoma, hairy-cell leukemia, and multiple myeloma. Therefore, BMT should be considered for every patient who has a hematologic cancer and an identical twin.
Colon cancer in blacks: age-related presentation and survival within a similar socioeconomic group.

Young blacks with colon cancer continue to have a poor survival rate for reasons that remain undetermined. Medical records of blacks with colon cancer diagnosed at an inner-city hospital during a 10-year period were reviewed. The cohort consisted of 118 indigent, nonmigratory patients grouped by age. Group 1 consisted of 11 patients under age 50, and group 2 consisted of 107 patients age 50 and over. Admission symptoms were significantly different between groups. Patients in group 1 presented with abdominal pain more often than patients in group 2, and none of the patients in group 1 had anemia or obstruction, which comprised 14% and 11%, respectively, of the presenting symptoms in group 2 patients. Overall, survival difference was significant; the survival rate was 22.8 months for group 1 and 64.2 months for group 2 (P < .02). There was no difference in stage at presentation to account for the decreased survival in group 1. It is possible that the overwhelming majority (45%) of patients in group 1 with abdominal pain actually had more virulent disease, which accounts for the short survival. These individuals must be targeted for more aggressive patient education, surveillance, early detection and treatment, and follow-up.