cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Q-switching bifurcation in a laser with a saturable absorber

The passive Q-switching operation in a laser with a saturable absorber consists of an operation with high-intensity spikes in the output power. It is known that this particular regime corresponds mathematically to a large-amplitude time-periodic solution of the laser equations. In this paper we propose a new asymptotic method to construct this solution. We show how the time-periodic solution appears from an infinite-period solution (homo-clinic solution) and analyze the behavior of the maximum intensity and the period as a function of a control parameter. This asymptotic method is based on a recent evaluation of the parameters for CO2 lasers with different absorbers [ E. Arimondo F. Casagrande L. A. Lugiato P. Glorieux , Appl. Phys. B30, 57 ( 1983)]. The relative magnitudes obtained by Arimondo et al. suggest a new approximation of the laser equations.
A flexible spatio-temporal model for air pollution with spatial and spatio-temporal covariates

The development of models that provide accurate spatio-temporal predictions of ambient air pollution at small spatial scales is of great importance for the assessment of potential health effects of air pollution. Here we present a spatio-temporal framework that predicts ambient air pollution by combining data from several different monitoring networks and deterministic air pollution model(s) with geographic information system covariates. The model presented in this paper has been implemented in an R package, SpatioTemporal, available on CRAN. The model is used by the EPA funded Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis and Air Pollution (MESA Air) to produce estimates of ambient air pollution; MESA Air uses the estimates to investigate the relationship between chronic exposure to air pollution and cardiovascular disease. In this paper we use the model to predict long-term average concentrations of $$\text {NO}_{x}$$ in the Los Angeles area during a 10 year period. Predictions are based on measurements from the EPA Air Quality System, MESA Air specific monitoring, and output from a source dispersion model for traffic related air pollution (Caline3QHCR). Accuracy in predicting long-term average concentrations is evaluated using an elaborate cross-validation setup that accounts for a sparse spatio-temporal sampling pattern in the data, and adjusts for temporal effects. The predictive ability of the model is good with cross-validated $$R^2$$ of approximately $$0.7$$ at subject sites. Replacing four geographic covariate indicators of traffic density with the Caline3QHCR dispersion model output resulted in very similar prediction accuracy from a more parsimonious and more interpretable model. Adding traffic-related geographic covariates to the model that included Caline3QHCR did not further improve the prediction accuracy.
Genetic aspects of breathing: on interactions between hypercapnia and hypoxia

Abstract Indeed, specific genes in humans and mice regulate breathing pattern at baseline and breathing control during chemical stimulation. The current review addresses the question of coupling plausible candidate genes to physiological variation in control of breathing. That is, can genes discovered in mice be candidates assigned to similar physiological mechanisms as genetic control of breathing in humans? As an illustration, this review examines the interaction of hypoxia in affecting the hypercapnic ventilatory sensitivity (HCVS) curve in humans and mice. Strain distribution patterns (SDPs) incorporating ten inbred mouse strains demonstrate that hypoxic stimulation likely influences HVCS via an additive mechanism rather than synergy between hypercapnia and hypoxia (i.e. CO2 potentiation). As a mechanism associated with the chemical control of breathing in humans, the absence of CO2 potentiation in mice suggests that specific genes interact to establish variation in complex breathing traits among mouse strains and between species. If future studies support the current evidence, the absence of CO2 potentiation in mice compared with humans suggest a clearly defined species difference, which may depend on alternative hypoxic interactions such as hypometabolic and central neuronal depressive mechanisms in mice. Because the complexity of breathing mechanisms varies with modest adjustments in the environment, gene-targeting strategies that achieve ‘one-gene, one-phenotype’ results must be complimented with alternative strategies that consider integrating complex respiratory mechanisms with gene-to-gene interactions.
On the Performance of IEEE 802.11n Cyclic Shift Diversity Scheme for 802.11a/g Legacy Compatibility

This paper investigates the legacy compatibility between IEEE 802.11n and 802.11a/g devices, focusing on the performance of legacy 802.11a/g auto-correlation and cross-correlation joint time and frequency synchronization schemes operating over 802.11n networks. It is shown that synchronization schemes based on auto-correlation metric allow the backward compatibility, considering a different number of transmitting antennas operating over TGn channel models.
Commercialization of Honeywell's VCSEL technology

In 1996, Honeywell was the first company to commercialize VCSEL technology, and today it is the world's largest VCSEL component supplier. This paper will focus on the aspects of VCSEL manufacture that are important to maintain highly reliable and producible components. For current VCSEL products, we will address the evolution of VCSEL reliability and its effect on performance in data communications systems. New applications in both the data communications and sensor markets are being enabled by the VCSEL technology. This paper will also discuss new VCSEL structures, packages and wavelengths that are being commercialized by Honeywell to address these emerging markets.
Distances between the Paclitaxel, Colchicine, and Exchangeable GTP Binding Sites on Tubulin†

Distances between the paclitaxel, colchicine, and exchangeable GTP binding sites on tubulin polymers have been probed using fluorescence spectroscopy. Techniques for measuring fluorescence resonanc...
Hippocampal Volume and Glucose Metabolism in Temporal Lobe Epileptic Foci

Summary: Purpose: Reports conflict on the relation of glucose metabolism to hippocampal volume in temporal lobe foci. Previous studies usually have used side-side ratios rather than regional metabolic rates. Methods: We measured hippocampal volume and glucose metabolism in 37 patients with temporal epileptogenic zones identified by ictal video-EEG telemetry. Metabolic rates were normalized to global brain mean. Results: Both 18-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose-PET and volumetric MRI lateralized the epileptic focus determined by ictal video-EEG. There were significant correlations between left-right metabolic asymmetry and hippocampal formation volume left-right ratios. Comparisons between normalized metabolism and hippocampal formation volume, ignoring the side of the epileptic focus, showed significant relations between left hippocampal volume and left inferior lateral temporal metabolism, right hippocampus and right inferior mesial temporal, and left hippocampus and left inferior mesial temporal metabolism. In contrast, when normalized metabolism was compared with hippocampal volume in the epileptic focus, no relation was found. Conclusions: Our study suggests that the relation between hippocampal volume and glucose metabolism breaks down in epileptic foci and that hypometabolism is not dependent on neuronal loss. It is consistent with data suggesting that hypometabolism is an independent predictor of surgical outcome.
SNP analysis to dissect human traits.

Abstract The analysis of complex human diseases has been spurred by the number of published genomic sequence variants — many identified in the course of sequencing the human genome. But, to be useful for genetic analysis, variants have to be mapped accurately, their frequencies in various populations determined, and automated high-throughput assay techniques developed. Recently proposed methods address these issues: the use of ‘reduced representation shotgun’ methods for more efficient detection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), the employment of high-throughput genotyping techniques, the development of SNP maps that incorporate information about linkage disequilibrium, and the use of SNPs in identifying susceptibility genes for common illnesses.
A derivation of the vector addition theorem

An alternative derivation of the vector addition theorem is presented using the completeness of vector wave functions and integration by parts. The advantage of this derivation is that it leads directly to the simplified results of Bruning and Lo and of Stein. Moreover, the dichotomous results of the addition theorem when a spherical Hankel function is involved can be derived by contour integration.
Lucid Art and Hyperspace Lucidity

This article explores nonrepresentational, multidimensional lucid dreaming and its parallel imagery in modern art paintings. Developed from a series of successive qualitative experiments on art and lucid dreaming, the study brings together phenomenological and narrative approaches to reveal a relationship between imagery in a particular lucid dream experience (Hyperspace Lucidity) and a particular type of modern art painting (Lucid Art). This article attempts to open new dialogues for investigation of the interconnection between the dreaming mind and art.
Easy to remember, difficult to forget: the development of fear regulation

Fear extinction learning is a highly adaptive process that involves the integrity of frontolimbic circuitry. Its disruption has been associated with emotional dysregulation in stress and anxiety disorders. In this article we consider how age, genetics and experiences shape our capacity to regulate fear in cross-species studies. Evidence for adolescent-specific diminished fear extinction learning is presented in the context of immature frontolimbic circuitry. We also present evidence for less neural plasticity in fear regulation as a function of early-life stress and by genotype, focusing on the common brain derived neurotrophin factor (BDNF) Val66Met polymorphism. Finally, we discuss this work in the context of exposure-based behavioral therapies for the treatment of anxiety and stress disorders that are based on principles of fear extinction. We conclude by speculating on how such therapies may be optimized for the individual based on the patient's age, genetic profile and personal history to move from standard treatment of care to personalized and precision medicine.
Interfacial Behavior of a Reacting Alkoxysilane Monolayer System

We report here the results on the investigations of the dynamic interfacial behavior of a trifunctional alkoxysilane, octadecyltrimethoxysilane (OTMS) as it is reacting at the air-water interface. We have investigated both the II-A isotherms and A(t) isobars of OTMS at acidic subphases. An attempt to analyze the kinetics of the reaction in the monolayer was limited to the early stages of the reactions and only describes the kinetics of hydrolysis. We also confirmed by rheological measurements that this system does indeed form a network inefficiently and the resulting structure most likely consists of extensive linear segments as has been suggested in earlier reports. The general rheological characteristic indicates the product to have high molecular weight. The product also exhibited a 2D sol-gel transition that has general features of a percolating network. However, the scaling behavior does not follow exactly that predicted; several reasons for this are discussed.
Evaluation of lateral spread of transgene expression following subretinal AAV-mediated gene delivery in dogs.

Dog models with spontaneously occurring mutations in retinal dystrophy genes are an invaluable resource for preclinical development of retinal gene therapy. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have been most successful; to target the outer retina and RPE they are delivered by subretinal injection, causing a temporary retinal detachment with some potential for retinal morbidity. A recent reporter gene study using an AAV2/8 vector in dogs reported transgene expression beyond the boundary of the subretinal bleb. This could be a desirable feature which increases the area of retina treated while minimizing the retinal detachment and any associated morbidity. We performed a detailed study of the lateral spread of transgene expression beyond the subretinal injection site following subretinally delivered AAV vectors in normal dogs. Vectors expressed green fluorescent protein (GFP) using a small chicken beta-actin promoter. AAV2/2 (quadruple tyrosine to phenylalanine (Y-F) capsid mutant), self-complementary (sc) AAV2/8 (single Y-F capsid mutant) and a scAAV2/5 were used. We found that in all eyes GFP expression involved retina beyond the initial post-injection subretinal bleb boundary. In all eyes there was post-injection spread of the retinal detachment within the first 3 days post procedure and prior to retinal reattachment. In 11/16 eyes this accounted for the entire “lateral spread” of GFP expression while in 5/16 eyes a very slight extension of GFP expression beyond the final boundary of the subretinal bleb could be detected. All 3 AAV constructs induced GFP expression in the nerve fiber layer with spread to the optic nerve. Patients treated by subretinal injection should be monitored for possible expansion of the subretinal injection bleb prior to reattachment. Injections in the para-foveal region may expand to lead to a foveal detachment that may be undesirable. Cell-specific promoters may be required to limit spread of expressed transgene to the brain with these AAV serotypes.
Flow stresses from microstructures in mylonitic quartzites of the Moine Thrust zone, Assynt area, Scotland

Recrystallized grain sizes, subgrain sizes and dislocation densities of quartz grains in quartzose mylonitic rocks have been examined using optical and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The samples come from the Moine Thrust zone in the Assynt district, Scotland. They had been studied previously and described in detail with respect to their structural position in relation to the various thrusts in the region and to their preferred orientation. Stresses were derived from these samples using empirical and theoretical equations relating flow stress to the scale of the microstructures. The stresses determined, 43–244 MPa from recrystallized grain size, 9–13 MPa from etched subgrain size, 50–95 MPa from TEM-scale subgrain size and 75–147 MPa from dislocation density, are not constant in individual samples. Simultaneous formation of the quartz fabrics and of the dynamically recrystallized grains during the period of mylonitization may have occurred under flow stresses ranging from 43 to 244 MPa. A later dynamic recovery event reset subgrain sizes and dislocation densities to a constant-value for each microstructure throughout the area. There is insufficient empirical information available on the flow stress/subgrain size relationship and on the effects of annealing recovery and annealing recrystallization to allow for a more detailed interpretation. Recrystallized grain size is still the most easily measured microstructural feature and the relationship of recrystallized grain size to flow stress has a sounder experimental basis than subgrain size or dislocation density. The effect of chemical environment on the behaviour of all the microstructures is still unknown.
Planar cell polarity orients airway cilia.

Propulsion of contaminants out of the lungs by coordinated action of motile cilia is essential for airway function. Multiciliated airway epithelial cells undergoing ciliogenesis generate hundreds of basal bodies that traffic to the surface, elongate motile axonemes and align with the tissue axis for coordinated motility. The mechanisms of cilia polarization remain poorly explored. We showed that a conserved set of planar cell polarity (PCP) proteins polarize airway epithelial cilia: PCP proteins localize asymmetrically to the cell cortex, revealing that PCP signaling starts before ciliogenesis; in PCP mutant epithelia, molecular and morphological polarity are disrupted; and PCP mutants display defective airway clearance, highlighting the requirement for ciliary alignment. Studying the cytoskeleton, a target of PCP signaling, we uncovered two temporally-distinct, cell type-specific, planar polarized microtubule (MT) networks. Prior to ciliogenesis, MTs are necessary in all cells for PCP protein asymmetry. Subsequently, after basal bodies dock, MTs are observed to contact the polarized appendages of basal bodies, and PCP-regulated, ciliated cell-specific MTs, stably anchored by their plus ends to the proximal cortex, are required for basal body distribution and alignment. Our evidence suggests that MTs have two separable PCP functions: MTs are first required in every cell for trafficking PCP proteins to the cortex, and later they interact with and directly align cilia. Our studies reveal strong conservation of PCP mechanisms initially described in Drosophila, and cilia alignment by PCP-oriented MTs provides the first mechanistic description of how asymmetric PCP proteins at the cortex orient cilia along the cell surface.
Pesticides induced oxidative stress in thymocytes

The role of oxidative stress in immune cell toxicity caused by the pesticides lindane, malathion and permethrin was investigated in thymic cells from C57BL/6 mice. Thymocytes treated with any of these pesticides (concentrations ranging between 50-150 microM) were found to generate both superoxide ((*)O(2) (-)) and H(2)O(2). The production of (*)O(2) (-) was detected with hydroethidine-ethidium bromide assay. H(2)O(2) production was monitored with a flow cytometric fluorescent (DCFH-DA) assay. All three pesticides stimulated (*)O(2) (-) release after 5 min exposure. Lindane and permethrin, but not malathion, continued to have significant (p < or = 0.05) effects on (*)O(2) (-) generation following 15 min of exposure. The lindane + malathion mixture was found to cause more-than-additive increase in (*)O(2) (-) production compared to individual pesticide treatments (at both 5 and 15 min). However, the effect of the lindane + permethrin mixture was not significantly different than individual components of this mixture. The effects of these pesticides on levels of antioxidant enzymes were also investigated, and only mixtures were found to have significant (p < or = 0.05) effects. Thus, lindane + malathion and lindane + permethrin mixtures increased total superoxide dismutase (SOD) specific activity, had no effect on catalase levels and inhibited GSH-peroxidase and GSH-reductase specific activities. Although the results of these studies do not explain the mechanism of action of these pesticides on the generation of (*)O(2) (-) and H(2)O(2), it is worthy of note that mixtures of these chemicals have oxidative responses greater than those of single chemicals.
Low-dose fractionated radiation as a chemopotentiator of neoadjuvant paclitaxel and carboplatin for locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: results of a new treatment paradigm.

Purpose Current therapies for locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) result in 50% long-term remission. Low-dose radiotherapy (<100 cGy) induces enhanced cell killing in vitro via the hyper-radiation sensitivity phenomenon but has not been used in the clinical setting. On the basis of the demonstrated synergy between chemotherapy and low-dose fractionated RT, a novel neoadjuvant therapy was designed using low-dose fractionated RT as a chemopotentiator for locally advanced SCCHN. Methods and materials Forty patients with locally advanced SCCHN received paclitaxel (225 mg/m2), carboplatin (area under the curve of 6), and four 80-cGy fractions of radiotherapy (two each on Days 1 and 2). This sequence was repeated on Days 22 and 23. Results Of the 40 patients enrolled, 39 were assessable. Grade 3 or worse toxicities included neutropenia (50%), infection (13%), arthralgias/myalgias (3%), skin (8%), lung (3%), and allergic reaction (3%), with no Grade 5 toxicity. The response was assessed radiographically and by panendoscopy. At the primary site, 11 patients (28%) had a complete response, 24 (62%) had a partial response, and 4 (10%) had stable disease. Of those with lymph node involvement, 10 (31%) had a complete response, 12 (38%) a partial response, 9 (28%) had stable disease, and 1 (3%) had progressive disease. The overall response rate was 82%. Conclusion Low-dose fractionated RT combined with paclitaxel and carboplatin is effective in SCCHN and has a similar toxicity profile to chemotherapy alone. This novel approach provided a response rate of 90% at the primary site and a nodal response rate of 69%. Additional scientific investigation of this new treatment paradigm is warranted.
X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopic Studies of Carbon Fibers. Part XIV: Electrochemical Treatment of Pitch-Based Fibers and the Surface and Bulk Structure Changes Monitored by XPS, XRD, and SEM:

Core and valence band X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, as well as X-ray Diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy, has been used to monitor the surface chemistry and bulk structure changes when DuPont E-120 high-modulus pitch-based carbon fibers are anodically oxidized in 1 M HNO3 solution at different anodic potentials. Electrochemical treatments changed both the surface and bulk chemistry of the fiber, while plasma treatment only affected the surface structure. Electrochemically treated fibers showed significant surface functional group decomposition after exposure to the x-ray radiation during the x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy experiment, but the decomposition occurred only on the top surface layer.
Bacterially facilitated rock-coating formation as a component of the geochemical budget in cold climates: An example from Kärkevagge, Swedish Lapland

Abstract Environmental microbiology and advances in molecular techniques have been a driving force in advancing the understanding of microbial communities in previously understudied environments. Though it is widely accepted that biological and geological processes are closely linked, the importance of microbes in geomorphological processes has been understated. Microbes interact with the environment, playing a significant role in nutrient cycling, ion mobilization, and metal scavenging and concentration. Although in some of these areas understanding is expanding, the role of microbes in geochemical budgets in cold climates has been largely ignored. To investigate one such case of microbial influence, we focus on rock-coating development in the glacially eroded valley, Karkevagge, in arctic-alpine Sweden. This bacterial diversity study shows evidence of a link between microbe–mineral interactions and key processes in the formation of diverse geochemical rock coatings. Here, we present a study of the bacterial role in metal scavenging and coating formation as a component of the geochemical budget of the valley.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Attenuates Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Abstract Background . Hypoxic endothelial cell activation plays a key role in the myocardial dysfunction resulting from ischemia-reperfusion injury. Recent evidence suggests that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) may, in addition to promoting angiogenesis, modulate various aspects of endothelial function and repair. We examined whether administration of VEGF in the cardioplegic solution might have a beneficial effect on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in an isolated rat heart model. Methods . Hearts from Sprague-Dawley rats were perfused with Krebs-Henseleit solution in a modified Langendorff apparatus. Percent recovery of cardiac output, coronary flow, stroke work, and percent increase in coronary vascular resistance were measured after 2 hours of global ischemia and 40 minutes of reperfusion. Coronary effluent was collected after ischemia and reperfusion for measurement of creatine kinase. Results . Hearts receiving cardioplegia solution containing 125 μg VEGF showed significantly improved recovery of cardiac output, coronary flow, and stroke work, and significantly reduced coronary vascular resistance compared with hearts receiving hyperkalemic cardioplegia only ( p Conclusions . Addition of VEGF to hyperkalemic cardioplegia protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in the isolated rat heart.
ADP-ribosylation of trout testis chromosomal proteins: distribution of ADP-ribosylated proteins among DNase I-sensitive and -resistant chromatin domains.

Abstract I have analyzed the distribution of adenosine diphosphoribose groups in acid-soluble proteins from trout testis chromatin. The results indicate that the inner nucleosomal histones 2A and 2B, together with H1 and the high-mobility-group (HMG) proteins HMG-T and H6, can be ADP-ribosylated when purified trout testis nuclei are incubated with labeled NAD + . I have also examined the partition of ADP-ribosylated histones and HMG proteins among DNase I-sensitive (transcriptionally competent) and DNase I-resistant (transcriptionally inert) domains of trout testis chromatin. The data show a preferential localization of ADP-ribosylated HMG proteins in DNase I-sensitive chromatin.
Genomic and proteomic sample preparation: higher throughput solutions

(2004). Genomic and proteomic sample preparation: higher throughput solutions. Expert Review of Proteomics: Vol. 1, No. 1, pp. 11-16.
Internal and Film Cooling of a Flat Plate With Conjugate Heat Transfer

Computations were performed to study the internal and film cooling of a flat plate with and without thermal-barrier coating (TBC) that account for the heat transfer in the gas and in the solid. The goal is to understand the effects of the conjugate heat transfer on the temperature distribution in the region about the film-cooling hole and in the region further downstream of a row of film-cooling holes. Results obtained show that when there are no TBC, conduction heat transfer in the plate smears out the adverse effects of hot-gas entrainment by the film-cooling jet. When there is a TBC, the surface temperature and the temperature in the super alloy are greatly reduced because of the low thermal conductivity of the ceramic top coat (CTC), but the temperature gradient, which is nearly aligned with the X-axis further away from the film-cooling hole, turns towards the side of the flat plate with internal cooling, which alters the thermal stress distribution. Reducing the thermal conductivity of the CTC by a factor of 10 was found to increase slightly instead of decrease the surface temperature. This computational study is based on the ensemble average continuity, Navier-Stokes, and energy equations closed by the ideal gas equation of state and the two-equation realizeable k-e turbulence model for the gas phase and the Fourier equations for conduction in the solid phase.
Development of an infection-resistant LVAD driveline: a novel approach to the prevention of device-related infections.

Abstract Background: Infection remains the single most important challenge to extended left ventricular assist device (LVAD) use and often arises from the percutaneous driveline exit site. We evaluated the ability of an LVAD driveline prototype impregnated with chlorhexidine, triclosan, and silver sulfadiazine to resist bacterial and fungal colonization. Methods The spectrum and duration of antimicrobial activity were evaluated in vitro by daily transfer of driveline segments embedded on agar plates inoculated with 10 8 colony-forming units (CFU) of Staphylococcus aureus ( S. aureus ), Staphlococcus epidermidis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Psuedomonas aeruginosa , and Candida albicans , and then measuring zones of inhibition around the sample subsequent to 24 hours of incubation at 37°C. Antimicrobial activity was demonstrated against all organisms for greater than 14 days, and for over 21 days for gram-positive bacteria. To demonstrate in vivo efficacy of the treated driveline, 3-cm segments of driveline were implanted in the dorsal and ventral surface of rats. The exit site was inoculated with 10 6 CFU of S. aureus . After 7 days, driveline segments were aseptically explanted and assayed for bacterial colonization and retention of antimicrobial activity. One hundred percent of control segments were colonized (10 5 CFU S. aureus /cm) as against 13% of the test explants (≤ 330 CFU/cm; p Results Subcultures of the insertion site and driveline pocket tissue resulted in 10 3 to 10 5 CFU per swab culture for control rats and 0 to 10 2 CFU/swab for test animals. Test drivelines retained 80% of anti– S. aureus activity. Gross and histological examination of the driveline and surrounding pocket revealed minimal tissue reactivity with positive signs of tissue ingrowth. Conclusion An antimicrobial driveline may prevent early infections and facilitate ingrowth of tissue to provide long-term stability and protection against late infection.
Unsupervised image segmentation by automatic gradient thresholding for dynamic region growth in the CIE L*a*b* color space

In this paper, we propose a novel unsupervised color image segmentation algorithm named GSEG. This Gradient-based SEGmentation method is initialized by a vector gradient calculation in the CIE L*a*b* color space. The obtained gradient map is utilized for initially clustering low gradient content, as well as automatically generating thresholds for a computationally efficient dynamic region growth procedure, to segment regions of subsequent higher gradient densities in the image. The resultant segmentation is combined with an entropy-based texture model in a statistical merging procedure to obtain the final result. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of our results on several hundred images, utilizing a recently proposed evaluation metric called the Normalized Probabilistic Rand index shows that the GSEG algorithm is robust to various image scenarios and performs favorably against published segmentation techniques.
The Integration and Efficiency of the London and Amsterdam Stock Markets in the Eighteenth Century

This article explores the operation of the international capital market between Amsterdam and London in the early eighteenth century and concludes that both markets were efficient and well integrated from 1723 on.
Creating zinc monkey wrenches in the treatment of epigenetic disorders.

The approval of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid by the FDA for the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma in October, 2006 sparked a dramatic increase in the development of inhibitors for the class of enzymes known as the histone deacetylases (HDACs). In recent years, a large number of combination therapies involving histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) have been developed for the treatment of a variety of malignancies and neurodegenerative disorders. Promising evidence has been reported for the treatment of pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, and leukemia as well as a number of other previously difficult to treat cancers. Drug combination approaches have also shown promise for the treatment of mood disorders including bipolar disorder and depression. In addition to these drug combination approaches, HDACIs alone have demonstrated effectiveness in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Rubinstein–Taybi syndrome, Rett syndrome, Friedreich's ataxia, Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Adverse inflammatory affects observed with traumatic brain injury and arthritis have also been alleviated by treatment with certain HDACIs. Based on the diverse utility and wide range of mechanistic actions observed with this class of drugs, the future development of better drug combination therapies and more selective HDACIs is warranted.
Optimization methods for locating lightning flashes using magnetic direction finding networks

Techniques for producing best point estimates of target position using direction finder bearing information are reviewed. The use of an algorithm that calculates the cloud-to-ground flash location given multiple bearings is illustrated and the position errors are described. This algorithm can be used to analyze direction finder network performance.
Vibrational HREELS spectra of atomic nitrogen and oxygen on Cu(100)

Abstract Vibrational HREELS spectra for a c(2×2) overlayer of atomic nitrogen on Cu(100) are reported for a nominal energy resolution of 5 meV at low primary beam energy (0
Adenoviral-mediated gene transfer of a constitutively active form of the retinoblastoma gene product attenuates neointimal thickening in experimental vein grafts ☆ ☆☆

Abstract Purpose: Inappropriate or excessive vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation leads to the development of occlusive lesions in up to 50% of vein grafts. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that induced overexpression of a cytostatic nonphosphorylatable form of the retinoblastoma protein (ΔRb) would attenuate neointimal thickening in experimental vein grafts. Methods: A replication-deficient adenovirus vector that encoded a nonphosphorylatable, constitutively active form of ΔRb was constructed (AdΔRb) and contained an NH 2 -terminal epitope tag from the influenza hemagglutinin molecule (HA). Forty-eight male New Zealand white rabbits underwent surgical exposure of the external jugular vein for transfection with either 3 × 10 10 plaque-forming units/mL AdΔRb (n = 16), 3 × 10 10 plaque-forming units/mL control adenovirus (AdBglII, n=15), or vehicle (n = 17) for 10 minutes at 120 mm Hg. After vector exposure, the vein was excised and interposed end-to-end into the carotid circulation. After 5 days, 12 grafts (four from each group) were excised and assayed for genomic ΔRb DNA with the polymerase chain reaction or for hemagglutinin molecule expression and localization with immunohistochemistry. The remainder of the grafts (n = 36) were perfusion-fixed after 4 weeks, and 5 μm sections prepared for digital planimetric analysis. Results: Polymerase chain reaction results identified the ΔRb gene only in the grafts that were transfected with AdΔRb. Immunohistochemical analysis results revealed transgene expression in most of the endothelial cells and in many of the smooth muscle cells. After 4 weeks, the grafts that were exposed to AdΔRb exhibited a 22% reduction in neointimal thickness (vehicle, 77 ± 7 μm; AdBglII, 75 ± 5 μm; AdΔRb, 60 ± 5 μm; P = .05), and medial thickness, luminal diameter, and other parameters were unchanged (medial thickness: vehicle, 72 ± 10 μm; AdBglII, 85 ± 7 μm; AdΔRb, 69 ± 9 μm; P = NS; luminal diameter: vehicle, 4.5 ± 0.2 mm; AdBglII, 4.4 ± 0.2 mm; AdΔRb, 4.7 ± 0.1 mm; P = NS). Conclusion: With this delivery system, adenoviral-mediated gene transfer is highly efficient and induced overexpression of ΔRb leads to a reduction in vein graft neointimal thickening. (J Vasc Surg 1999;29:874-83.)
The lower tail of the random minimum spanning tree

Consider a complete graph $K_n$ where the edges have costs given by independent random variables, each distributed uniformly between 0 and 1. The cost of the minimum spanning tree in this graph is a random variable which has been the subject of much study. This note considers the large deviation probability of this random variable. Previous work has shown that the log-probability of deviation by $\varepsilon$ is $-\Omega(n)$, and that for the log-probability of $Z$ exceeding $\zeta(3)$ this bound is correct; $\log {\rm Pr}[Z \geq \zeta(3) + \varepsilon] = -\Theta(n)$. The purpose of this note is to provide a simple proof that the scaling of the lower tail is also linear, $\log {\rm Pr}[Z \leq \zeta(3) - \varepsilon] = -\Theta(n)$.
TDM Emulation in Packet-Switched Networks

Many network operators offer some type of tiered service, in which users may select only from a small set of service levels (tiers). In this work, we study the problem of designing a tiered-service network that allocates bandwidth in multiples of a basic bandwidth unit. Such a packet-switched network can enjoy many of the benefits, in terms of control and management, of a TDM network, but without the associated data plane rigidities.
What Cooperating Teachers Are Teaching Student Teachers about Classroom Management.

Abstract As background for the creation of a college course in classroom management for student teachers, this study surveyed what cooperating teachers were already teaching student teachers about classroom management. Fifty‐five student teachers and 48 cooperating teachers participated in the research. Findings indicate that the cooperating teachers were generally not aware of specific authors or books about classroom management and were not going to teach a specific knowledge base about management to their student teachers. Rather, the cooperating teachers are sharing experiences and “what works for me” scenarios. A call for outreach and collaboration from the college to the cooperating teachers and their administrators is made.
The Rice Trade in Eastern India 1650–1740

recognize the importance of food-grains as an ingredient of that trade. In the western part of the Ocean (the Arabian Sea), its eastern part (Bay of Bengal) and within the Southeast Asian mainland and islands, there is every evidence of a substantial movement of food-grains from surplus areas to deficit areas. Though the scale and frequency of this trade may not be relatively as important in the regional economy as Braudel has outlined for the Mediterranean' (with the assistance, it must be admitted, of superior quantitative evidence), it was nevertheless one of the commodities that entered into the commercial processes of different regions of the Ocean. The evidence for the study of the grain trade is, as with all Asian trade in the early modern period, fragmentary and episodic. As intrinsic to the sector of trade embracing Asian merchant shippers and consumers, it shares the disadvantages of paucity of evidence of that whole sector. Again, as with Asian trade as a whole, the grain trade comes into view only when Europeans have entered into that trade and have left glimpses of it in their records. The Portuguese in the sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries were heavily involved in it in western India and a recent study has marshalled evidence from Portuguese sources on the mechanics of that trade in a port on the Kanara coast.2 In the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, with the entry into the Indian Ocean of the large Chartered Companies, evidence on the grain trade is substantially increased, enabling us to see it in sharper focus in the broad canvas of Asian trade. A number of questions raise themselves, most of which can only be answered impressionistically and others have to be left unanswered. An
Organizational routines, innovation, and flexibility: the application of narrative networks to dynamic workflow.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how current visual representations of organizational and technological processes do not fully account for the variability present in everyday practices. We further demonstrate how narrative networks can augment these representations to indicate potential areas for successful or problematic adoption of new technologies and potential needs for additional training. Methods We conducted a qualitative study of the processes and routines at a major academic medical center slated to be supported by the development and installation of a new comprehensive HIT system. We used qualitative data collection techniques including observations of the activities to be supported by the new system and interviews with department heads, researchers, and both clinical and non-clinical staff. We conducted a narrative network analysis of these data by choosing exemplar processes to be modeled, selecting and analyzing narrative fragments, and developing visual representations of the interconnection of these narratives. Results Narrative networks enable us to view the variety of ways work has been and can be performed in practice, influencing our ability to design for innovation in use. Discussion Narrative networks are a means for analyzing and visualizing organizational routines in concert with more traditional requirements engineering, workflow modeling, and quality improvement outcome measurement. This type of analysis can support a deeper and more nuanced understanding of how and why certain routines continue to exist, change, or stop entirely. At the same time, it can illuminate areas in which adoption may be slow, more training or communication may be needed, and routines preferred by the leadership are subverted by routines preferred by the staff.
Frequent overcrowding in U.S. emergency departments.

Abstract. Objective: To describe the definition, extent, and factors associated with overcrowding in emergency departments (EDs) in the United States as perceived by ED directors. Methods: Surveys were mailed to a random sample of EDs in all 50 states. Questions included ED census, frequency, impact, and determination of overcrowding. Respondents were asked to rank perceived causes using a five-point Likert scale. Results: Of 836 directors surveyed, 575 (69%) responded, and 525 (91%) reported overcrowding as a problem. Common definitions of overcrowding (>70%) included: patients in hallways, all ED beds occupied, full waiting rooms >6 hours/day, and acutely ill patients who wait >60 minutes to see a physician. Overcrowding situations were similar in academic EDs (94%) and private hospital EDs (91%). Emergency departments serving populations ≤250,000 had less severe overcrowding (87%) than EDs serving larger areas (96%). Overcrowding occurred most often several times per week (53%), but 39% of EDs reported daily overcrowding. On a 1-5 scale (±SD), causes of overcrowding included high patient acuity (4.3 ± 0.9), hospital bed shortage (4.2 ± 1.1), high ED patient volume (3.8 ± 1.2), radiology and lab delays (3.3 ± 1.2), and insufficient ED space (3.3 ± 1.3). Thirty-three percent reported that a few patients had actual poor outcomes as a result of overcrowding. Conclusions: Episodic, but frequent, overcrowding is a significant problem in academic, county, and private hospital EDs in urban and rural settings. Its causes are complex and multifactorial.
Type I Interferons increase host susceptibility to Trypanosoma cruzi infection.

ABSTRACT Trypanosoma cruzi, the protozoan parasite that causes human Chagas9 disease, induces a type I interferon (IFN) (IFN-α/β) response during acute experimental infection in mice and in isolated primary cell types. To examine the potential impact of the type I IFN response in shaping outcomes in experimental T. cruzi infection, groups of wild-type (WT) and type I IFN receptor-deficient (IFNAR−/−) 129sv/ev mice were infected with two different T. cruzi strains under lethal and sublethal conditions and several parameters were measured during the acute stage of infection. The results demonstrate that type I IFNs are not required for early host protection against T. cruzi. In contrast, under conditions of lethal T. cruzi challenge, WT mice succumbed to infection whereas IFNAR−/− mice were ultimately able to control parasite growth and survive. T. cruzi clearance in and survival of IFNAR−/− mice were accompanied by higher levels of IFN-γ production by isolated splenocytes in response to parasite antigen. The suppression of IFN-γ in splenocytes from WT mice was independent of IL-10 levels. While the impact of type I IFNs on the production of IFN-γ and other cytokines/chemokines remains to be fully determined in the context of T. cruzi infection, our data suggest that, under conditions of high parasite burden, type I IFNs negatively impact IFN-γ production, initiating a detrimental cycle that contributes to the ultimate failure to control infection. These findings are consistent with a growing theme in the microbial pathogenesis field in which type I IFNs can be detrimental to the host in a variety of nonviral pathogen infection models.
Regulation of Protein Degradation in Chick Muscle by Several Hormones and Metabolites

Abstract Experiments were conducted to examine the effect of various regulatory agents on the rate of protein degradation in chick extensor digiti communis (EDC), and ulnaris lateralis (UL) muscles in vitro. Muscles were incubated in an oxygenated Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate buffer. Rates of protein degradation were calculated from the rate at which tyrosine was released from protein. Protein synthesis was blocked with cycloheximide to prevent reutilization of tyrosine. Insulin (bovine) decreased protein degradation in the EDC and UL muscles by 11.3 and 10.5%, respectively, when glucose was present in the incubation medium and by 11.0 and 10.3% when glucose was omitted. This suggested the action of insulin on protein degradation was not secondary to effects on glucose transport. Glucose alone decreased protein degradation by 17.3 and 14.8% in EDC and UL, respectively. Glucagon (bovine), cortisol, corticosterone, and dexamethasone did not have significant effects on the rate of protein degradation in either muscle. Branched chain amino acids (BCAA) decreased the rate of protein degradation by 21.6% in the presence of insulin but did not significantly change the rate when insulin was omitted. These results demonstrate that chicken muscle, like that of rats, responds to insulin, glucose, and BCAA by decreasing protein degradative rates. The rates of protein degradation in three muscles, EDC, UL, and extensor digitorum longus (EDL), were compared utilizing a medium containing insulin, glucose, and BCAA to minimize protein degradation. All three muscles released tyrosine at a linear rate for 2.25 hr of incubation. The rate of protein degradation in the slowest growing EDC muscle was significantly greater than that in the UL, whereas the fastest growing EDL had the slowest rate of protein degradation.
Two-dimensional axisymmetric Child–Langmuir scaling law

The classical one-dimensional (1D) Child–Langmuir law was previously extended to two dimensions by numerical calculation in planar geometries. By considering an axisymmetric cylindrical system with axial emission from a circular cathode of radius r, outer drift tube radius R>r, and gap length L, we further examine the space charge limit in two dimensions. Simulations were done with no applied magnetic field as well as with a large (100 T) longitudinal magnetic field to restrict motion of particles to 1D. The ratio of the observed current density limit JCL2 to the theoretical 1D value JCL1 is found to be a monotonically decreasing function of the ratio of emission radius to gap separation r/L. This result is in agreement with the planar results, where the emission area is proportional to the cathode width W. The drift tube in axisymmetric systems is shown to have a small but measurable effect on the space charge limit. Strong beam edge effects are observed with J(r)/J(0) approaching 3.5. Two-dimensional ax...