cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Place Attachment and Alienation from Place: Cultural Displacement in Gentrifying Ethnic Enclaves:

Commercial gentrification often accompanies residential gentrification. Both processes contribute to the real or perceived threat of displacement for longtime residents of ethnic enclaves experienc...
Colossal Ambitions: Confederate Planning for a Post-Civil War World

Adrian Brettle’s Colossal Ambitions: Confederate Planning for a Post-Civil War World follows leading Confederates as they envisaged their nation’s peacetime future even while facing the pressing de...
The association between anisometropia, amblyopia, and binocularity in the absence of strabismus

Abstract PURPOSE: First, to determine if thresholds exist for the development of amblyopia and subnormal binocularity with various types of anisometropia and to confirm or refute existing guidelines for its treatment or observation. Second, to delineate any association between the degree or type of anisometropia and the depth of amblyopia and severity of binocular sensory abnormalities. METHODS: Four hundred eleven (411) patients with various levels of anisometropia, no previous therapy, and no other ocular pathology were evaluated. The effect of anisometropia (both corrected and uncorrected) on monocular acuity and binocular function was examined. RESULTS: Spherical myopic anisometropia (SMA) of > 2 diopters (D) or spherical hypermetropic anisometropia (SHA) of > 1 D results in a statistically significant increase in the incidence of amblyopia and decrease in binocular function when compared to non anisometropic patients. Increasing levels of SMA and SHA beyond these thresholds were also associated with increasing depth (and in the case of SHA, incidence as well) of amblyopia. Cylindrical myopic anisometropia (CMA) or cylindrical hyperopic anisometropia (CHA) of > 1.5 D results in a statistically significant increase in amblyopia and decrease in binocular function. A clinically significant increase in amblyopia occurs with > 1 D of CMA or CHA. Increasing levels of CMA and CHA beyond > 1 D were also associated with an increased incidence (and in the case of SMA, depth as well) of amblyopia. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides guidelines for the treatment or observation of anisometropia and confirms and characterizes the association between the type and degree of anisometropia and the incidence and severity of amblyopia and subnormal binocularity.
Pulsed current switching of sub-micron MRAM cell

In this paper, we will report measurement and simulation of switching of sub-micron MRAM cells and also investigate the effect of temperature on the pulsed current switching of such devices. we will compare detailed micromagnetic simulation of MRAM switching using a stochastic Landau-Lifshitz equation.
The extraspecial case of the () problem

Let E be an extraspecial-type group and V a faithful, absolutely irreducible k[E]-module, where k is a finite field. Let G be the normalizer in GL(V) of E. We show that, with few exceptions, there exists a v ∈ V such that the restriction of V to C H (v) is self-dual whenever H < G and (|H|, |V|) = 1.
Intrusion detection and response for system and network attacks

This work focuses on Intrusion Detection System (IDS) and Intrusion Response System (IRS) model for system and network attacks. For decades, IDS has evolved tremendously and has become highly sophisticated. However, the response to an attack is still manually triggered by an administrator who relies on static mapping to counteract the intrusion. The speed of attack-spread and its increased complexities in recent years have shown that it is highly critical to develop an automatic IRS. Moreover, manual responses are not flexible and effective in distributed environment without infrastructure. This work presents a cost based response model that is tightly coupled with multi-source IDS. It is a known fact that any system can be broken down into smaller granules of services and resources. A dependency graph is employed to describe the relations between services and resources in a system. This dependency graph is also used to propagate the total value of the system down to the service and resource levels. The damage cost of the intrusion and the response cost of the responses are evaluated using the dependency graph. Using several performance metrics, a response which brings the most benefit to the system is deployed. We demonstrate the abilities of our model by using buffer overflow attack caused by a computer worm on Optimized Link State Routing (OLSR) protocol on a wireless ad-hoc network environment. Experimental results show that our model is effective and is highly
APPLICATION OF AN EXPANDED MODEL PROCEDURE FOR TRANSFER OF TLC SCREENING METHODS FOR SUBSTANDARD AND FAKE DRUGS DESIGNED FOR USE IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES TO QUANTITATIVE HPTLC-DENSITOMETRY METHODS

Transfer of four rapid thin-layer chromatography (TLC) screening methods used to detect substandard and fake pharmaceutical products to quantitative high-performance TLC (HPTLC)-densitometry methods is demonstrated using an expanded version of a model procedure that was published earlier. These methods for mebendazole, diphenhydramine hydrochloride, amodiaquine, and artesunate are contained in a Compendium of methods by Kenyon and Layloff and/or Minilab method manuals from Global Pharma Health Fund E.V. for use in countries with limited resources. A new HPTLC-densitometry method was also developed for amitriptyline hydrochloride, for which there was no Compendium or Minilab method that could be transferred. These quantitative methods use Merck HPTLC silica gel 60 F254 glass plates, automated standard and sample solution application, and automated densitometry for detection, identification, and quantification. Standard and sample solution preparation and application procedures for obtaining calibration cur...
Construction and Immunogenicity Evaluation of Recombinant Influenza A Viruses Containing Chimeric Hemagglutinin Genes Derived from Genetically Divergent Influenza A H1N1 Subtype Viruses.

Citation: McCormick, K., Jiang, Z., Zhu, L., Lawson, S. R., Langenhorst, R., Ransburgh, R., . . . Fang, Y. (2015). Construction and immunogenicity evaluation of recombinant influenza A viruses containing chimeric hemagglutinin genes derived from genetically divergent influenza A H1N1 subtype viruses. Plos One, 10(6). doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0127649
Assessing Written Communication in Higher Education: Review and Recommendations for Next-Generation Assessment

Written communication is considered one of the most critical competencies for academic and career success, as evident in surveys of stakeholders from higher education and the workforce. Emphasis on writing skills suggests the need for next-generation assessments of writing proficiency to inform curricular and instructional improvement. This article presents a comprehensive review of definitions of writing proficiency from key higher education and workforce frameworks; the strengths and weaknesses of existing assessments; and challenges related to designing, implementing, and interpreting such assessments. Consistent with extant frameworks, we propose an operational definition including 4 strands of skills: (a) social and rhetorical knowledge, (b) domain knowledge and conceptual strategies, (c) language use and conventions, and (d) the writing process. Measuring these aspects of writing requires multiple assessment formats (including selected-response [SR] and constructed-response [CR] tasks) to balance construct coverage and test reliability. Next-generation assessments should balance authenticity (e.g., realistic writing tasks) and psychometric quality (e.g., desirable measurement properties), while providing institutions and faculty with actionable data. The review and operational definition presented here should serve as an important resource for institutions that seek to either adopt or design an assessment of students' writing proficiency.
Age Grading in Sociolinguistic Theory

Distinguishing linguistic change at the community level (‘generational change’) from linguistic change at the individual level (‘age grading’) is ‘‘one of the major issues in contemporary sociolinguistics’’ (Tagliamonte 2012:247). This article gives a brief history of the study of language change in the community, before turning to the types of linguistic behavior that have been observed across individuals’ lifespans. The article also discusses the meanings that have been attributed to the term ‘age grading’, arguing that consensus cannot be reached without more longitudinal work to determine the limits of lifespan linguistic change. 1. The Study of Language Change
Genetic manipulation of an abnormal jump response in Drosophila.

ABSTRACT The hyperkinetic mutants, Hk 1 and Hk 2 , jump and fall over when an object moves near them. This behavior, the kinetogenic response, has been measured by the experimenter moving his hand above a vial containing a single fly and scoring the number of positive responses in fifty trials. The response is higher in Hk 1 than in Hk 2 and has remained so over a period of several years and in different genetic backgrounds. The Hk 1 /Hk 2 heterozygote also responds to movements, establishing the allelism of the two mutants.—When Sh 5 , a shaker mutant at another locus on the X chromosome, is introduced into the same chromosome as Hk 1 or Hk 2 , the response is reduced in proportion to the number of Sh 5 mutant genes added.—When Hk 1 or Hk 2 is heterozygous with a deficiency for the hyperkinetic region of the X chromosome, the expression is more abnormal than the respective Hk 1 or Hk 2 homozygote. This shows that the mutant genes are producing an altered gene product, or less of the normal, since one mutant gene by itself has a more abnormal expression than two. A tentative explanation has been offered for the observed mutant behaviors.
Implantable parylene MEMS for glaucoma therapy

An implantable glaucoma management system is presented for the first time. Glaucoma is an incurable disease characterized by gradual visual field loss that eventually results in blindness. Studies indicate that reduction of intraocular pressure reduces the rate of disease progress. A passive parylene MEMS pressure sensor and drainage shunt comprise a complete system for the detection and alleviation of elevated intraocular pressure. Tissue anchors for securing the pressure sensor to the iris have been developed to facilitate direct and convenient optical monitoring of intraocular pressure.
Tidal influences on O2 atmospheric band dayglow : HRDI observations vs. model simulations

Atmospheric tides perturb the temperature, winds, density, and composition of the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) and therefore affect daytime O2 atmospheric band airglow. O2 atmospheric band dayglow measurements made by the High Resolution Doppler Imager (HRDI) show clear tidal signatures in equatorial emission rates during equinox, when diurnal tide amplitudes are large. During solstice the observed symmetric diurnal variation of dayglow indicates an emission process controlled by solar absorption. Observations are compared with modeled emissions based on an atmosphere perturbed with diurnal tides predicted by the Tuned Mechanistic Tidal Model (TMTM) for March 1993. Good data/model agreement indicates enhanced emissions result from tidal advection of atomic oxygen from the lower thermosphere. While tides modulate O2 nightglow by perturbing atomic oxygen recombination rates, the tidal signatures seen in O2 dayglow are due to increased production of ozone and O(¹D). These results provide further confirmation of the consistency of the HRDI daytime wind, temperature and airglow observations.
Near-optimal delay-constrained MLR scheduler for multimedia embedded wireless channels

We consider real-time video packet transmission over a wireless channel. In our model, optimal rate allocation strategies are determined by the cross-layer perspective that minimize the average power consumed by the transmitter under the average delay constraints. We present simple packet scheduling policies which are influenced by both the queue and the channel state and those can be utilized to tradeoff characteristic between queueing delay and transmission power. The near-optimal scheduler adopts a low-complexity modified-linear-rule (MLR) which tends to make the queue evolve as a stable feed-back linear system. The parameter is chosen so as to reach the desired compromise between delay and power consumption. Throughout the extensive simulations, we generalize the scheme of MLR scheduler even in the multiuser wireless fading environments, compare it with the performance of the optimal scheduler and the log-linear scheduler and derive the optimal rate adaptation for video sources under the average delay and power constraints.
Variability of the Ischiofemoral Space Relative to Femur Position: An Ultrasound Study.

Abstract Background Ischiofemoral impingement is caused by compression of the quadratus femoris muscle between the ischial tuberosity and lesser trochanter. The evaluation of ischiofemoral impingement includes radiologic studies to evaluate the ischiofemoral space dimensions. No prior study has evaluated the effect of femoral position on ischiofemoral space dimensions. Objective To determine whether the dimensions of the ischiofemoral space vary with changes in femoral position. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Academic institution. Participants Six male and four female subjects with no hip pain and no history of hip disorders or surgery were selected to participate in the study. The subjects' mean age was 31.5 years; mean height, 176.8 cm; mean weight, 70.2 kg; and mean body mass index, 23.6 kg/m 2 . Methods Ultrasound was used to measure the ischiofemoral space in bilateral gluteal regions of each volunteer. The volunteers underwent imaging in a prone position. The ischiofemoral space was measured with the femur in 9 different positions created through various combinations of frontal (15° abduction, neutral, and 15° adduction) and transverse (30° internal rotation, neutral, and 30° external rotation) plane hip motions. Main Outcome Measurements The narrowest ischiofemoral interval, defined as the narrowest distance between the medial cortex of the lesser trochanter and the lateral cortex of the ischial tuberosity. Results The anatomic landmarks used to measure the ischiofemoral space were easily identified in all subjects. The frontal plane main effect (F 2,18 = 38.611) was statistically significant ( P 2,18 = 82.452, P P P = .99). Conclusions Femoral position affects ischiofemoral space dimensions. The ischiofemoral space widens with abduction and internal rotation and narrows with adduction and external rotation, and thus femoral position should be considered when imaging and measuring the ischiofemoral space.
Predicting the Diffusion of Improved Pastures in Uruguay

Research suggests the logistic curve is the characteristic diffusion path for new technologies. Econometric analysis of fertilized grass‐legume pastures in Uruguay indicated that their diffusion during the first years following introduction also followed a logistic path. Some departure from a simple logistic shape was explained by including beef and fertilizer prices within the diffusion framework. Both the rate and limit of diffusion were positively related to changes in the technology's profitability, but the estimated price elasticity of each was low. Extrapolation predicted that a ceiling equal to 12% of Uruguayan pasture area would be reached in 1980.
Re-reading Propertius’ Arethusa

Abstract This article argues that in poem 4.3, Propertius depicts Arethusa not as a citizen wife, but as a concubine or an elegiac courtesan under exclusive contract to Lycotas. The Roman lexicon of marriage was frequently used to describe relationships other than iustum coniugium, especially in love elegy. That is the situation presented in Propertius 4.3. Arethusa’s anxieties are primarily sexual, and thus identify her as something new in elegy: not a wife but a faithful puella. This poem gives us the poetic voice of a loving, loyal, contracted courtesan.
On the incorporation of damping in large, general-purpose computer programs

Damping plays an important role in the dynamic response of structures and equipment subjected to broadband excitation such as that due to earthquake. Its incorporation into general-purpose shock and vibration computer programs has been based on either a concern for the physical mechanisms of damping or on the need for mathematical convenience. The more physical approach starts with the equation of motion [M] {x} + [C] {x_.} + [K] {x} = {F(t)}, where [C], the damping matrix, is derived from element properties in a manner consistent with the derivation of [K]. Expressions for a consistent damping matrix exist for radiation of energy by travelling waves, fluid flow damping and internal energy dissipation by the material. Under certain conditions, it is convenient to incorporate the material damping as a complex stiffness, i.e. [M] {x} + [C] {x_.} + [K] (1 + iη) {x_.} = {F(t)}. The equation of motion can then be rewritten in a symmetric form. The equations can be uncoupled by the damped, complex eigenvalues and solved by modal superposition. An alternative approach, which is mathematicall more convenient, is to choose a form for [C] which is reduced to diagonal form by the undamped, real eigenvalues associated with the equation of motion [M] {x} + [K] {x} = {F(t)}. Two common choices for such a damping matrix are the generalization of proportional damping suggested by Caughey and the selection of equivalent viscous modal damping coefficients using the strain energy weighting technique suggested by Biggs. Both these choices for the form of [C] are conducive to solution by modal superposition; however, some mention will be made of the role of damping in solutions which use direct integration or frequency domain techniques.
Oxygen and water vapor absorption of radio waves in the atmosphere

Calculated values of the gaseous atmospheric absorption are presented for the frequency range 100 to 50,000 Mc at elevations above ground up to at least 130,000 feet, for average conditions during February and August at Bismarck, N. D. and Washington, D. C. Total radio path absorptionsare presented for tropospheric forward scatter communication links for distances of 100, 300 and 1000 miles. The total path absorptions were calculated by summing the absorption contributed by each portion of the atmosphere traversed by a radio ray passing from a 60 foot parabolic antenna resting on the ground to the scattering center and then to a similar receiving antenna. A correlation of total path absorption with the surface value of absolute humidity is developed, thus providing estimates of the range of absorption values in different geographic areas. Maps of average absolute humidity for the world are presented. Previous work on rain absorption is then combined with the present study to provide estimates of the radio power loss due to absorption expected to be exceeded 1 per cent of the time.
Critical Evaluation of Dyes as Crystal Growth Inhibitors

Abstract Between 1933 and 1951, H. E. Buckley conducted an extensive investigation of the manner in which commercial dyes modify the habits of simple salt crystals. While he and others reasonably assumed that the mechanism by which dyes inhibited the growth of crystal surfaces involved the substitution of anionic functionalities for anion position in the lattice, the stereochemical details of these processes were never articulated. In light of the recent explanation, by Davey and coworkers,1 of the inhibition of alkaline earth sulfate growth by the stereospecific two-point attachment of diphosphonates, we felt that the time was ripe for a reinvestigation of Buckley's data. A conformational analysis, using the AMI Hamiltonian, was carried out on nine constitutionally isomeric azo dyes whose habit modifying effects for five salts were recorded by Buckley. No stereochemical relationships were found which could explain the stated data. We argue that the action of unspecified impurities, often comprising 50% o...
Supermodularity and preferences

We uncover the complete ordinal implications of supermodularity on finite lattices under the assumption of weak monotonicity. In this environment, we show that supermodularity is ordinally equivalent to the notion of quasisupermodularity introduced by Milgrom and Shannon. We conclude that supermodularity is a weak property, in the sense that many preferences have a supermodular representation.
The effect of keratoconus on the structural, mechanical, and optical properties of the cornea

Keratoconus is an eye disorder wherein the cornea weakens due to structural and/or compositional anomalies. This weakened cornea is no longer able to preserve its normal shape against the intraocular pressure in the eye and therefore bulges outward, leading to a conical shape and subsequent distorted vision. Changes in structure and composition often manifest as a change in shape (or geometry) as well as in mechanical and optical properties. Thus, understanding the properties and structure of keratoconic corneas could help elucidate etiology and pathogenesis, to develop treatments, and to understand other diseases of the eye. In this review, we discuss the changes in structure, composition, and mechanical and optical properties of the cornea with keratoconus. Current treatments for keratoconus and a novel proposed treatment using two-photon excitation therapy are also discussed. The intended audiences are mechanical engineers, materials engineers, optical engineers, and bioengineers.
DIRECT MEASUREMENT OF RETARDED VAN DER WAALS ATTRACTION

Total internal reflection microscopy is used to measure the total potential energy of interaction between a 6 μm polystyrene (PS) latex bead and either a bare glass microscope slide or a glass slide spin-coated with a 1 μm thick PS film, when the two interacting bodies are separated by 10−300 nm of aqueous solution having an ionic strength between 0.5 and 3 mM. In particular, these are the first measurements of van der Waals interaction between microscopic bodies of PS across water, for which the dielectric spectra are well-known. Under these conditions the bead is levitated above the slide by double-layer repulsion. After the gravitational contribution is subtracted, the potential energy profile displays a minimum of 0.5−2.3kT formed by long-range van der Waals attraction and shorter-range double-layer repulsion. The attraction was detectable at distances up to 200 nm. At separation distances greater than 100 nm (energy < 0.5kT), the measurements agree well with predictions using Lifshitz theory to predi...
Promising computer-based context for teaching social skills warrants further investigation

This review provides a summary and appraisal commentary on the treatment review by Murphy, S. M., Faulkner, D. M., & Reynolds, L. R. (2014). A randomized controlled trial of a computerized intervention for children with social communication difficulties to support peer collaboration. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 35, 2821–2839.Source of funding and disclosure of interests: None reported.
Strategic Ramsey equilibrium dynamics

Abstract We study strategic Ramsey equilibria. First, we give necessary and sufficient conditions for a stationary equilibrium point to exist where only the most patient household owns capital. We develop the dynamics of strategic Ramsey equilibrium trajectories when the turnpike property holds and there is a stationary equilibrium with only the most patient household owning capital. We conclude by showing there is a class of economies for which the turnpike property obtains.
Intra-aortic balloon versus extra-aortic counterpulsation in severe cardiac failure differences in aortic input impedance and left ventricular power generation

In order to evaluate the efficacy of counterpulsation for different cardiac assist device configurations, a valveless single orifice polyurethane ventricle was implanted on the brachlocephalic artery in sheep(n=14) to provide extra-aortic counterpulsation. In parallel, an intra-aortic balloon was placed in the descending aorta. Both devices were pneumatically driven with a standard intra-aortic balloon pump console at a preload of 40°c. Severe cardiac failure was induced with high dosages of esmolol. Measured parameters were aortic pressure and flow, and left ventricular pressure. Tension-time index, total aortic flow, end diastolic pressure, aortic input impedance, and left ventricular power output were computed. Results indicate that the fundamental components of aortic input impedance and left ventricular power output are reliable predictors of the efficacy of counterpulsation for the experimental model used in this study.
Types of prayer, optimism, and well-being of middle-aged and older patients undergoing open-heart surgery

To specify the psychological mechanism through which faith factors may influence health-related well-being, we followed a sample of middle-aged and older patients for their experiences associated with open-heart surgery. Structural equation modeling analysis in an earlier report demonstrated a parallel-pathway explanatory model in which preoperative optimism and acute stress response functioned as positive and negative mediators, respectively, of the influence of using prayer for coping. This current analysis addresses an additional question: Which styles or types of prayer usage may have potential protection in postoperative outcomes? Three interviews were conducted with 295 patients (age 62±). Items from established instruments were used to assess postoperative mental health, optimism, acute stress, prayer coping, and chronic conditions. Structural equation modeling was used to test a theoretical conceptual model. The major finding was unexpected. Of the four major types, only the use of “petitionary” p...
Design, analysis, and reconfiguration of a multi-arm spiral frequency selective surface

Frequency selective surfaces (FSS) have a range of applications from radome design, radar cross section reduction, and minimizing electromagnetic interference - to name a few. However, after fabrication, the surface's frequency response is static. Adding a reconfiguration mechanism to the FSS expands upon its versatility. Some common FSS tuning techniques use varactors, MEMS, and ferrite materials. However, these methods require the use of a biasing network, and only a few reconfiguration states are achievable. Fluidic tuning systems provide a viable alternative to the aforementioned methods. First, using fluidics removes the need for a biasing network. Second, by doping the base fluid with high dielectric particles a continuous spectrum of reconfiguration states is possible.
Noninvasive assessment of ectopic uterine tissue development in rats using magnetic resonance imaging.

Objective To non-invasively characterize ectopic uterine tissue (EUT) development in a modified autologous rat surgical model of endometriosis using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Design Investigational MRI study. Setting A pharmaceutical company. Animal(s) Female Sprague Dawley rats. Intervention(s) Uterine tissue was autotransplanted on the right peritoneal wall of rats. Rats were serially imaged after surgery and after endogenous hormone suppression, hormone supplementation, or ovariectomy. In addition, an MRI contrast agent was administered to examine EUT perfusion characteristics. Main Outcome Measure(s) Changes in transplanted EUT volume and perfusion were monitored using MRI. Result(s) The EUT growth could be readily monitored non-invasively by MRI. Although EUT growth was rapid during the initial 4 days after surgery, volume stabilized by the third week and maintained for at least 9 weeks after transplantation. The EUT volumes varied with the estrous cycle and were hormonally sensitive to ovariectomy, to Antide (GnRH antagonist), and to Antide followed by 17β-E 2 supplementation. The use of an MRI contrast agent facilitated visualization of EUT wall perfusion. Conclusion(s) MRI allows for noninvasive, dynamic evaluation of transplanted EUT growth in the rat. This reproducible model will allow for performing quantifiable pharmacologic studies in pre-clinical drug discovery for therapies targeting endometriosis.
Deprojection of axially symmetric objects

The deprojection of axisymmetric density distributions is generally indeterminate to within the addition of certain axisymmetric distributions (konus densities) that are invisible in projection. The known class of konus densities is expanded considerably here through the introduction of {\em semikonus functions}. These functions are closed with respect to multiplication in ordinary space, and the real part of an arbitrary polynomial of semikonus functions is a konus function. This property facilitates the construction of semikonus (and konus) functions with tailored properties, such as asymptotic forms. We also develop a simple technique for constructing several classes of konus distributions with arbitrary density profiles in the equatorial plane.
Predicting protein-protein binding sites in membrane proteins

Background: Many integral membrane proteins, like their non-membrane counterparts, form either transient or permanent multi-subunit complexes in order to carry out their biochemical function. Computational methods that provide structural details of these interactions are needed since, despite their importance, relatively few structures of membrane protein complexes are available. Results: We present a method for predicting which residues are in protein-protein binding sites within the transmembrane regions of membrane proteins. The method uses a Random Forest classifier trained on residue type distributions and evolutionary conservation for individual surface residues, followed by spatial averaging of the residue scores. The prediction accuracy achieved for membrane proteins is comparable to that for non-membrane proteins. Also, like previous results for non-membrane proteins, the accuracy is significantly higher for residues distant from the binding site boundary. Furthermore, a predictor trained on non-membrane proteins was found to yield poor accuracy on membrane proteins, as expected from the different distribution of surface residue types between the two classes of proteins. Thus, although the same procedure can be used to predict binding sites in membrane and non-membrane proteins, separate predictors trained on each class of proteins are required. Finally, the contribution of each residue property to the overall prediction accuracy is analyzed and prediction examples are discussed. Conclusion: Given a membrane protein structure and a multiple alignment of related sequences, the presented method gives a prioritized list of which surface residues participate in intramembrane protein-protein interactions. The method has potential applications in guiding the experimental verification of membrane protein interactions, structure-based drug discovery, and also in constraining the search space for computational methods, such as protein docking or threading, that predict membrane protein complex structures.
Setting straight the record

The monotone analysis used by Carterette and Anderson (1979) is misrepresented by Birnbaum (1982). Birnbaum attributes to us a procedure that we did not use, but that we severely criticized. Birnbaum then presents an alternative approach like the one we actually did use. The issue concerns monotone transformation to additivity. Monotone transformation is so flexible that it may make nonadditive data falsely appear additive. We pointed out that the common practice of using monotone transformation with single replications did not protect against the danger of such inappropriate transformation. Single replication refers to a single score in each design cell, even thought this single score may be the mean or median of several scores. Instead, we used a distribution method, based on the ADDALS program of de Leeuw, Young, and Takane (1976), in which several replications are transformed with a single transformation. We cited evidence to show that this distribution method could provide additional constraint to prevent false transformation to additivity . Our procedure was clearly specified, as the following quotes from Carterette and Anderson (1979) indicate.
Deep information from limited observation of robust yet fragile systems

Abstract We show how one can completely reconstruct even moderately optimized configurations of the Forest Fire model with relatively few observations. We discuss the relationship between the deep information from limited observations (DILO) to the robust-yet-fragile (RYF) property of the Forest Fire model and propose that DILO may be a general property of RYF complex systems.
Data prefetch mechanisms

The expanding gap between microprocessor and DRAM performance has necessitated the use of increasingly aggressive techniques designed to reduce or hide the latency of main memory access. Although large cache hierarchies have proven to be effective in reducing this latency for the most frequently used data, it is still not uncommon for many programs to spend more than half their run times stalled on memory requests. Data prefetching has been proposed as a technique for hiding the access latency of data referencing patterns that defeat caching strategies. Rather than waiting for a cache miss to initiate a memory fetch, data prefetching anticipates such misses and issues a fetch to the memory system in advance of the actual memory reference. To be effective, prefetching must be implemented in such a way that prefetches are timely, useful, and introduce little overhead. Secondary effects such as cache pollution and increased memory bandwidth requirements must also be taken into consideration. Despite these obstacles, prefetching has the potential to significantly improve overall program execution time by overlapping computation with memory accesses. Prefetching strategies are diverse, and no single strategy has yet been proposed that provides optimal performance. The following survey examines several alternative approaches, and discusses the design tradeoffs involved when implementing a data prefetch strategy.
Carlitz-Kummer function fields☆

Abstract Let F q be a finite field with q elements where q is a power of a prime p. Also, let M be any polynomial in F q[x] and let kM be the Mth cyclotomic function field. If K is any finite extension field of kM, then we define Carlitz-Kummer extensions of K as an analog of the Kummer extensions of algebraic number fields. More specifically, let z ∈ K. Then the Carlitz-Kummer extension KM,z is defined as the splitting field over K of the polynomial uM − z. The Carlitz-Kummer extension KM,z is a simple, separable, Abelian extension whose degree is a power of the characteristic. Our main results are on the factorization of primes in Carlitz-Kummer extensions. Let q be any prime divisor of K and let Q be any prime divisor of KM,z that lies over q . We show that q can ramify in KM,z only if q is an infinite prime, q divides M, or q divides the denominator of z. Finally, we show that the factorization of q in KM,z in determined by certain congruence conditions on the polynomial uM − z modulo powers of the prime q .
Comprehensive fetal ultrasonographic growth measurements in triplet gestations.

Abstract Objective: Our purpose was to create tables and graphs of ultrasonographically derived fetal growth parameters in longitudinally studied triplet gestations from a single center. Study Design: All triplet pregnancies managed by our division from 1987 through 1998 were identified. All had first-trimester dating sonograms and complete obstetric sonograms obtained by means of 3.5- or 5.0-MHz curvilinear transducers with freeze-freeze capability and on-screen calipers. Sonograms to assess fetal growth were obtained every 2 to 4 weeks, from 16 to 18 weeks' gestation until delivery. Fetal parameters obtained with each sonogram included biparietal diameter; head circumference; bicerebellar diameter; abdominal circumference; femur, humerus, tibia, and fibula lengths; estimated fetal weight; and head circumference/abdominal circumference ratio. Regression analysis was performed with JMP and Cricket Graph software packages, and lines of best fit with 95% confidence intervals were generated. Results: A total of 443 ultrasonographic examinations were performed for 33 triplet pregnancies (99 fetuses). Each had between 3 and 6 sonograms obtained, all between 16 and 35 weeks' gestation. Scatterplots of each of the fetal growth parameters against gestational age were created with regression lines of best fit and 95% confidence intervals. All growth parameters were dependent on gestational age. Conclusion: A comprehensive set of fetal growth measurements in triplets from the United States is now available and can be used to assess longitudinal fetal growth. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1999;181:1128-32.)
Methodology for Selection, Sequencing, and Deployment of Activities in a Capstone Design Course Using the TIDEE Web-Based Assessment System

Assessment of design process, design products, team process, and professional practice are natural fits in an engineering capstone design course. In order for instructors and students to fully experience the value of capstone course assessment activities, the activities must not only be carefully developed but must also be deployed in an appropriate manner. Course designers must choose an optimal set of assignments based on local needs, while balancing time intensive design project activities with professional growth experiences. Instructors must facilitate the complete cycle of usage of a single assignment in order to ensure that the value is understood before and after completion of the assessment. This paper introduces guidelines for achieving effectiveness in selecting, timing, and sequencing assessment activities, preparing for activity deployment, and implementing a facilitation plan. Additionally this paper reports on the feedback from students and faculty using the system that highlights the importance of naturalistically integrating assessment.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Use of confocal laser scanning microscopy on soil thin-sections for improved characterization of microbial growth in unconsolidated soils and aquifer materials

Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was utilized to examine samples from an aquifer microcosm that was used to investigate microbially mediated losses in hydraulic conductivity. Samples were fixed, dehydrated and dried to prepare the biological material in a fashion similar to that used previously for viewing under the scanning electron microscope. Then, samples were prepared as thin-sections by employing soil micromorphological techniques. Serial images generated by the CLSM technique were visualized using computer three-dimensional rendering software. Results from the CLSM technique were compared with simple fluorescence microscopy of thin-sections and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of samples from the microcosm. Computer visualization of serial sections with the CLSM technique provided images on a submicron scale in three dimensions. SEM has a much higher resolution, on a nanometer scale, but the results are not three dimensional. Artifacts associated with thin-section preparation are minimal for natural porous media composed mostly of sand, such as aquifer materials. Also, CLSM images are affected minimally by changes to biological material due to sample preparation, whereas artifacts associated with SEM images are very prominent, due to the higher magnification and resolution. CLSM of thin-sections and SEM are very powerful methods for viewing microbial growth in natural porous media, but CLSM is preferable because it allows three-dimensional visualization and measurements of cells and aggregates with few artifacts.
Improving understanding of type III solar radio bursts

Solar radio bursts are associated with solar events that can interfere with GPS and communications systems, so scientists would like to learn more about the dynamics of these bursts. Type III solar radio bursts, which are generated when high-energy electrons are ejected from the Sun, are characterized by a rapid drift in frequency from hundreds of megahertz to tens of kilohertz. Scientists believe that the process of producing type III solar radio bursts is associated with the excitation of Langmuir waves, which are oscillations in the electron density in a plasma, followed by the conversion of these waves into radio emissions. However, there are some open questions about these bursts.Thejappa et al. applied a method known as trispectral analysis to an observed Langmuir wave packet associated with a type III solar radio burst. The scientists show that four different spectral components of this wave packet interact strongly with one another in an interaction known as the oscillating two-stream instability. The researchers suggest that this could explain some features of the solar radio bursts. (Geophysical Research Letters, doi:10.1029/2012GL051017, 2012)
SMFM adopts GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) for clinical guidelines.

n this edition of the journal, the Society for Maternal-Fetal I Medicine (SMFM) has published its latest clinical guideline regarding fetal blood sampling. Up to this point, SMFM had been using an evidence grading system outlined by the US Preventive Services Task Force that classified recommendations level A (based on good and consistent scientific evidence), level B (based on limited or inconsistence scientific evidence), and level C (based on expert opinion or consensus). After careful consideration and consultation with experts in the field, the SMFM Publications Committee has adopted Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) for grading scientific evidence and practice recommendations for SMFM clinical guidelines (Table 1). This decision to adopt GRADE was multifactorial: the desire to achieve a singular classification system to improve consistency with other organizations creating guidelines and to address some of the limitations of previous classification systems. This will ultimately benefit clinicians, policy-makers, and patients. Similar to the process for the previously used classification system, GRADE starts with formulating a question in the format of population, intervention, comparison, and outcome. Once the relevant studies are summarized, GRADE provides explicit criteria for rating the quality of evidence that include study design, risk of bias, imprecision, inconsistency, indirectness, and magnitude of effect. Eventually, the quality of the evidence is categorized as one of the following: high (grade A), moderate (grade B), or low (grade C). Once the evidence is graded, recommendations are made, characterizing them as either strong (grade 1) or weak (grade 2) (Tables 2 and 3). Similar to any situation when a new process or approach is undertaken, it is expected there will be a learning curve with GRADE for both the SMFM Publications Committee and those interpreting the guidelines. We believe that in the long term the adoption of GRADE benefits clinicians and policy-makers and
T cell IFN-γ suppression following alcohol and burn injury is independent of miRNA155.

miRNA155 has been implicated in normal T cell function and their differentiations into the Th1 subtype. We have shown that acute alcohol (ethanol) intoxication combined with burn injury suppresses T cell IFN-γ release. Herein, we examined whether the decrease in IFN-γ is resulted from altered expression of miRNA155 and transcription factors -NFAT, Tbx21, Jun and Fos - in T cells following ethanol and burn injury. Mice received ethanol (∼3 g/Kg) 4 hours prior to ∼12.5% total body surface area sham or burn injury and were sacrificed one day after injury. Splenic T cells were harvested and cultured with anti-CD3 (2 µg/ml) in the presence or absence of rIL-12 (10 ng/ml) or PMA (10 ng/ml) plus ionomycin (50 ng/ml) for 48 hours. We observed a significant decrease in miRNA155, NFAT, Tbx21, Jun and Fos expression as well as IFN-γ release in T cells cultured with anti-CD3 following ethanol and burn injury compared with shams. The co-treatment of T cells with rIL-12 prevented the decrease in IFN-γ and NFAT, Tbx21, Jun and Fos, but not miRNA155. In contrast, the co-treatment with PMA plus ionomycin normalized the expression of NFAT. It did not prevent the decrease in IFN-γ, Tbx21, Jun, Fos and miRNA155. Finally, results obtained in miRNA155-/- mice did not show any change in T cell release of IFN-γ or expression of nuclear factors compared to wildtype mice. Together, these findings suggest that while ethanol and burn injury decreases the expression of miRNA155, it may not be involved in decreased IFN-γ under those conditions.
Interplant variation in creosotebush foliage characteristics and canopy arthropods

We conducted a field study to test the hypothesis that creosotebush (Larrea tridentata) shrubs growing in naturally nutrient-rich sites had better quality foliage and supported greater populations of foliage arthropods than shrubs growing in nutrient-poor sites. Nutrient-rich sites had significantly higher concentrations of soil nitrogen than nutrient-poor sites. Multivariate analysis of variance revealed significant differences between high nutrient and low nutrient shrubs based on a number of structural and chemical characteristics measured. High nutrient shrubs were larger, had denser foliage, greater foliage production, higher concentrations of foliar nitrogen and water, and lower concentrations of foliar resin than low nutrient shurbs. Numbers of foliage arthropods, particularly herbivores and predators, were significantly higher on high nutrient shrubs. Shrub characteristics and foliage arthropod abundances varied considerably from shrub to shrub. Shrub characteristics representing shrub size, foliage density, foliage growth, and foliar nitrogen and water concentrations were positively correlated with arthropod abundances. Foliar resin concentrations were negatively correlated with foliage arthropod abundances. The positive relationship between creosotebush productivity and foliage arthropods is contradictory to the tenet that physiologically stressed plants provide better quality foliage to insect herbivores.
Information coding capacity of cerebellar parallel fibers

Abstract Understanding synaptic connectivity is a prerequisite to gaining insight on how the central nervous system processes information. Cerebellar parallel fibers make an impressive number of synapses with the Purkinje cells. These synapses are the major structural elements of a large information processing system. The objective of the present report is to describe a method to estimate the coding capacity of this information processing system. We propose to derive the coding capacity from the linear distribution pattern of synaptic varicosities along parallel fibers in a manner consistent with Shannon's information theory formalism. The coding capacity of an average parallel fiber synapse is S = − κ Σ P l ( i ) ln P l ( i ) , where κ = 1/ln 2, P l ( i ) is the probability of observing a particular inter-varicosital distance l ( i ), and ln is the natural logarithm to the base e . In the cerebellar parallel fibers of the mouse, and in a number of other unmyelinated axonal systems, the distribution pattern of P l ( i ) as a function of l ( i ) is exponential-like. According to information theory, the exponential-like distribution pattern suggests that information transmission in these axonal synaptic systems is operating at near-optimal coding capacity. This optimization in information coding may be the result of a stochastic-like process regulating the formation or elimination of parallel fiber synapses during development and maturation. In the adult nervous system, neuroplasticity-mediated synaptic remodeling may also regulate the coding capacity of axonal synapses via a similar stochastic-like process. The conceptual framework herein may be applicable to other axonal systems in the nervous system.