cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neural activity in human visual cortex is transformed by learning real world size.

Abstract The way that our brain processes visual information is directly affected by our experience. Repeated exposure to a visual stimulus triggers experience-dependent plasticity in the visual cortex of many species. Humans also have the unique ability to acquire visual knowledge through instruction. We introduced human participants to the real-world size of previously unfamiliar species, and to the functional motion of novel tools, during a functional magnetic resonance imaging scan. Using machine learning, we compared activity patterns evoked by images of the new items, before and after participants learned the animals' real-world size or tools' motion. We found that, after acquiring size information, participants' visual activity patterns for the new animals became more confusable with activity patterns evoked by similar-sized known animals in early visual cortex, but not in ventral temporal cortex, reflecting an influence of new size knowledge on posterior, but not anterior, components of the ventral stream. In contrast, learning the functional motion of new tools did not lead to an equivalent change in recorded activity. Finally, the time-points marked by evidence of new size information in early visual cortex were more likely to show size information and greater activation in the right angular gyrus, a key hub of semantic knowledge and spatial cognition. Overall, these findings suggest that learning an item's real-world size by instruction influences subsequent activity in visual cortex and in a region that is central to semantic and spatial brain systems.
Characterization of courtship behavior and copulation rate in adp60 mutant Drosophila melanogaster (Insecta: Diptera: Drosophilidae)

Many metabolic consequences of the excess lipid storage observed in obesity have been documented in humans and mammals, but the effects of an obese phenotype on reproductive behavior are less under...
Intraoperative Optical Coherence Tomography-Assisted Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty in the DISCOVER Study: First 100 Cases

Purpose Intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT) may facilitate successful transition to Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) surgery via improved efficiency of tissue orientation. The purpose of this study is to report a large consecutive series of iOCT-assisted DMEK, inclusive of all learning curve cases. Design Prospective consecutive case series. Methods The Determination of Feasibility of Intraoperative Spectral Domain Microscope Combined/Integrated OCT Visualization During En Face Retinal and Ophthalmic Surgery (DISCOVER) study is a single-site, multisurgeon, IRB-approved investigational device prospective study. The first 100 consecutive iOCT-assisted DMEK surgeries performed by 1 attending corneal surgeon (JMG) and 6 novice surgeons (cornea fellows under supervision) were reviewed. iOCT was utilized for tissue orientation. Patient demographics, tissue characteristics, intraoperative parameters, and postoperative complications are reported. Outcomes (1) Utility of iOCT based on surgeon reporting during surgery, (2) intraoperative graft unscrolling efficiency, and (3) frequency of postoperative complications. Results One hundred eyes of 76 patients were enrolled. Forty-three cases were performed by 1 staff physician and 57 cases were performed by 6 cornea fellows. Concurrent phacoemulsification with lens implantation was performed in 52 cases (52%). Nine eyes (9%) required rebubbling. Two eyes (2.0%) experienced primary graft failure. One graft failure resulted from surgeon error in interpreting the iOCT. Average unscrolling time was 4.4 ± 4.1 minutes (range: 0.7-27.6 minutes). Conclusions iOCT facilitates DMEK orientation without the need for external markings. For novice DMEK surgeons, complication rates and unscrolling times compare favorably with alternative tissue orientation methods.
Ibrutinib Can Modulate the T Cell Response in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia By Reducing PD1/PDL1 Interactions

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor ibrutinib is a covalent inhibitor of BTK, a member of the B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling pathway and induces objective clinical responses in the majority of CLL patients (Byrd et al., NEJM 2013). Interestingly this drug also inhibits L2-inducible T cell kinase (ITK), an essential enzyme for the development and effector function of Th2 and Th17 cells, and has been shown to shift the balance towards a Th1 response. The purpose of the study was to determine how ibrutinib influences the Th1/Th17/T regulatory cell response, expression of immune checkpoint blockade molecules on T cells and the functional pathogen-specific T cell recovery. METHODS: Here we present data from a clinical trial of ibrutinib versus ibrutinib + rituximab in previously treated patients (NCT02007044). Peripheral blood and serum were collected at baseline, 3 months and 6 months during therapy. Multicolor flow cytometry was used to characterize B cell subsets, T-cell subsets, expression of PD-1, PD-L1 and CTLA-4 and T-cell effector function. For statistical analysis of pre-treatment to on-treatment measurements the paired Student t-test was used. RESULTS: Here we report on the phenotypic and functional recovery of immune subsets in 41 CLL patients treated with ibrutinib (n=17) or ibrutinib + rituximab (n=25). Both PD-1 and PD-L1 were expressed at high levels on CLL cells. Interestingly, by 3 and 6 months, there was a significant decrease in PD-1 expression from a pre-treatment median of 15% to 4% (at 3 months) and 3% (at 6 months; P CONCLUSION: Based on these data we propose that ibrutinib therapy can modulate the T cell response through multiple mechanisms which include (i) direct inhibition of ITK and skewing of the T cell response toward a Th1 profile; (ii) reduction in PD1/PDL1 expression on B and T cells and (iii). suppression of Tregs. It is unclear how ibrutinib influences the PD1/PDL1 interaction and whether this is a direct effect of the drug on essential components of B and T cell-receptor signaling or whether it is an indirect effect related to a reduction in the leukemia burden. Mechanistic studies to understand how ibrutinib modulates the PD1/PL1 axis are currently underway. Download : Download high-res image (61KB) Download : Download full-size image Figure 1 . Ibrutinib therapy is associated with a reduction in PDL1 expression on the surface of CD19+ B cells. Download : Download high-res image (98KB) Download : Download full-size image Figure 2 . Ibrutinib therapy is associated with a reduction in PD1 expression on the surface of CD3+ T cells. Disclosures Burger: Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Research Funding. Wierda: Glaxo-Smith-Kline Inc.: Research Funding; Celgene Corp.: Consultancy. Rezvani: Pharmacyclics: Research Funding.
Emulsion Polymerization, Size Determination, and Self-Assembly of Monodispersed Poly(methyl methacrylate) Nanospheres for Photonics

Polymers and nanochemistry are important facets of chemistry. In this experiment, students synthesize monodispersed poly(methyl methacrylate) nanospheres from the addition or chain polymerization of a rapidly stirred aqueous mini-emulsion of methyl methacrylate. The 2,2′-azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride serves as a heat activated, water-soluble, free radical initiator to polymerize the emulsion droplets starting from their outer edge. The uniform small diameter particles will appear iridescent if they are close-packed and their size is similar to the wavelength of visible light. Students characterize the size of the poly(methyl methacrylate) spheres by four methods: the settling velocity and Stokes’ law, evaporative self-assembly of a photonic material and visible spectroscopy, direct measurement using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and SEM measurement of the silica inverse opal. This experiment increases student collaboration and provides the opportunity to work on multiple experiments at once.
The tale of tea: a comprehensive history of tea from prehistoric times to the present day

Imagine a hypothetical encyclopedia about tea – let’s call it the University Companion to Tea – that provides a broad overview of tea history with discussions of varieties, methods of producing and...
1.6Tbps Silicon Photonics Integrated Circuit for Co-Packaged Optical-IO Switch Applications

We demonstrate 1.6Tbps Silicon Photonic Integrated Circuit (SiPIC) meeting co-packaged optics requirements for network switch applications. The SiPIC has sixteen 106Gbps PAM4 optical channels, including lasers, modulators and V-grooves. Post-FEC error-free operation over temperature is demonstrated.
Azoospermia Secondary to a Novel X-Autosomal Reciprocal Translocation: 46,Y, t(X:16)(p22.1:p11.2)

Chromosomal translocations occur in 10 to 15% of men with azoospermia. Thirty distinct X-autosomal balanced reciprocal translocations have been reported in the literature thus far. We present a novel case of azoospermia with a karyotype of 46,Y,t(X:16)(p22.1:p11.2). A 26-year-old, healthy, active duty male Solider presented with his dependent female partner for primary infertility. Female anatomical and endocrine evaluations were normal. Initial male evaluation revealed azoospermia on multiple semen analyses. Further evaluation with a detailed physical exam and laboratory tests were normal except for an abnormal karyotype with a reciprocal translocation at chromosomes X and 16. An open testicular biopsy demonstrated 75% late spermatid maturation arrest confirming reproductive potential although significantly reduced. Men who present with azoospermia should undergo a full endocrine and genetic evaluation with a thorough physical evaluation by an urologist. They can have limited but successful reproductive outcomes if spermatozoa can be isolated during testicular biopsy. Given the high risk of producing genetically unbalanced embryos, genetic counseling and preimplantation genetic testing is essential before pursuing assisted reproductive technology. This case is the first X-autosomal balanced reciprocal translocations involving chromosome 16 and highlights the importance of the X chromosome during spermatogenesis.
A sequential approach for achieving separate sensible and latent cooling

Abstract Separate sensible and latent cooling (SSLC) is a potentially beneficial approach to improve the efficiency of air conditioning systems; however, the complex configuration of existing and proposed SSLC systems increases installation and maintenance costs, limiting their widespread use in new construction and building retrofit opportunities. In this paper, a sequential SSLC system is proposed to realize the separation of sensible and latent loads by switching a single vapor compressor cycle between two modes (low-SHR and sensible only). This effect is achieved by applying readily available variable-speed equipment at a high compressor speed and a low fan speed to achieve the low-SHR mode operating for dehumidification. This is followed by a sensible only mode to cool the air, which is achieved through a low compressor speed and a high evaporator fan speed. To predict the performance of a sequential SSLC system, a numerical model has been developed and validated. Using this numerical model for energy consumption and optimization studies, it is found that the sequential SSLC system has the potential to save 6.9% to 11.5% energy compared to a traditional cooling system.
Cross-domain gearbox diagnostics under variable working conditions with deep convolutional transfer learning:

This study proposes a novel 1D deep convolutional transfer learning method that is able to learn the high-dimensional domain-invariant feature from the labeled training dataset and perform diagnosi...
Comprehension and Evolution of Combinatorial Models and Test Plans

Combinatorial test design (CTD) [1] is an effective test design technique, considered to be a testing best practice. CTD provides automatic test plan generation, but it requires a manual definition of the test space in the form of a combinatorial model, consisting of parameters, their respective values, and constraints on the value combinations. A valid test in the test space is defined to be an assignment of one value to each parameter that satisfies the constraints. A CTD algorithm automatically constructs a subset of the set of valid tests, termed a test plan, which covers all valid value combinations of every t parameters, where t is usually a user input. Such a test plan is said to achieve 100% t-way interaction coverage. A significant combinatorial reduction is achieved in the size of the resulting test plan (compared to manually designed test plans for example) because the tests generated by the CTD algorithm are very different from one another, maximizing their added value -- each of them covers as many unique t-way value tuples as possible. Note that tests produced by the algorithm are parameter-value assignments. Generating executable tests from them is often a separate, manual effort.
Finding recurrent out-of-vocabulary words.

Out-of-vocabulary (OOV) words can appear more than once in a conversation or over a period of time. Such multiple instances of the same OOV word provide valuable information for estimating the pronunciation or the part-of-speech (POS) tag of the word. But in a conventional OOV word detection system, each OOV word is recognized and treated individually. We therefore investigated how to identify recurrent OOV words in speech recognition. Specifically, we propose to cluster multiple instances of the same OOV word using a bottom-up approach. Phonetic, acoustic and contextual features were collected to measure the distance between OOV candidates. The experimental results show that the bottom-up clustering approach is very effective at detecting the recurrence of OOV words. We also found that the phonetic feature is better than the acoustic and contextual features, and the best performance is achieved when combining all features.
Multiple atlases-based joint labeling of human cortical sulcal curves

We present a spectral-based sulcal curve labeling method by considering geometrical information of neighboring curves in a multiple atlases-based framework. Compared to the conventional method, we propose to use neighboring curves for avoiding ambiguity in curve-by-curve labeling and to integrate the labeling results obtained from multiple atlases for consistent labeling. In particular, we compute a histogram of points on the neighboring curves as a new feature descriptor for each point on a sulcal curve under consideration. To better resolve ambiguity in the curve labeling, we also employ the neighboring curves that are parallel to major sulcal curves. Moreover, we further integrate all the results from multiple atlases into a linear system, by solving which our method ultimately gives accurate labels to the major curves in the subjects. Experimental results on evaluation of 12 major sulcal curves of 12 human cortical surfaces indicate that our method achieves higher labeling accuracy 7.87% compared to the conventional method, while reducing 4.41% of false positive labeling errors on average.
Pathways of evolution for man and machine

A simplified model of the future is introduced in order to examine the relations between man, machine, and extraterrestrial intelligence. The observed lack of extraterrestrials on earth is used as a boundary condition for the model. Two exobiological conclusions are obtained: (1) advanced extraterrestrials exist but are difficult to observe or to distinguish from natural phenomena, (2) lower level, man-like extraterrestrials, which are potentially observable, are rare in the Universe because they are rapidly replaced in the evolutinary sequence by the intelligent machines which they create. The decline of man is inferred and may take place as soon as 100 years from now or as long as 100,000 years from the present time. Thus, we are a short-lived species, having a life expectancy of only a million years. A note is appended on the rationale and methods of the search for extraterrestrial intelligence in light of the above calculations. The Tau Ceti and Epsilon Eridani systems present favourable opportunities for a radio-search experiment in 1987 and 1988, respectively.
STUDIES ON SHELL FORMATION. XI. CRYSTAL-MATRIX RELATIONSHIPS IN THE INNER LAYERS OF MOLLUSK SHELLS.

The relationships of crystals to the organic matrix in which they form have been studied in the shell of three bivalve mollusks, Pinctada martensii, Elliptio complanatus, and Crassostrea virginica, by comparing decalcified and undecalcified sections. The organic matrix occurs as sheets. The sheets of the nacreous regions (P. martensii and E. complanatus) are 300–3000 thick and in cross section showed fibrils 100–200 in diameter. Those of the calcitostracum (C. virginica) were 120–200 thick and seemed to be made up of two or three layers, each about 50 thick. Interlamellar matrix was found only in the nacreous region as continuous sheets between the horizontal crystalline layers of aragonite. Intercrystalline matrix enveloped the aragonite and calcite crystals. Intracrystalline matrix surrounded and penetrated the dendritic elements making up the aragonite and calcite crystals.
Synchronization of turbo codes based on online statistics

Turbo codes are sensitive to both (timing) synchronization errors and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) mismatch. Since turbo codes are intended to be deployed in environments with very low SNR, conventional synchronization methods often fail. This paper introduces a solution for jointly estimating the SNR and achieving timing synchronization based on the statistics of the received signal. Simulation results show only a small loss in coding gain relative to perfect timing and SNR estimation while requiring only slightly more complexity and latency.
Skeletal muscle capillarity and angiogenic mRNA levels after exercise training in normoxia and chronic hypoxia

Gene expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and to a lesser extent of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), has been found to increase ...
Keynote: A decade of broadening participation with STARS

It has been ten years since we envisioned the STARS Alliance. We started as 10 Southeastern schools focused on regional partnerships and institutionalization of best practices, with specific focus on mentoring, high school outreach, research, and pair programming. Our intent was to build a vertical and horizontal community of “like” students that extends beyond the classroom walls. The field of computing has dramatically changed in the past decade, and so has STARS. We are now over 50 colleges and universities nationwide. We continue to effectively engage in mentoring, outreach and research — now augmenting these practices by invention, entrepreneurship, open source and an explosion in interdisciplinary applications for computer science. This talk is a retrospective of how STARS and best practices for broadening participation have changed, with suggestions for how best practices could evolve in the future.
Comparison of neuropsychological functioning in Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia

Compared the archival neuropsychological data of 15 frontotemporal dementia (FTD) patients (mean age 63.9 yrs), 16 Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients (mean age 70.3 yrs), and 16 controls were compared. Controls outperformed both patient groups on measures of verbal and nonverbal memory, executive ability, and constructional skill, with AD patients showing more widespread memory decline. Patient groups differed only in nonverbal memory, with FTD patients performing significantly better than AD patients. Patient groups also differed in pattern of performance across executive and memory domains. Specifically, AD patients exhibited significantly greater impairment on memory than executive tasks, whereas the opposite pattern characterized the FTD group. Findings suggest that examination of relative rankings of scores across cognitive domains, in addition to interpretation of individual neuropsychological scores, may be useful in differential diagnosis of FTD vs AD.
Factors associated with incidence and persistence of symptoms of disturbed sleep in an elderly cohort: the Cardiovascular Health Study.

ABSTRACT Background There are limited data pertaining to the factors influencing the incidence and persistence of sleep symptoms in the elderly. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence and nonremission rates of the following sleep symptoms: trouble falling asleep (TFA), frequent awakenings (FA), and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) in the Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS), a prospective multicenter study of cardiovascular disease in a large cohort of elderly adults. Factors influencing these rates were assessed as well. Methods 4467 participants in CHS were surveyed for the presence of TFA, FA, and EDS as well as other health problems at their baseline examination and at a follow-up examination 1 to 4 years later. Results Annualized incidence and nonremission rates were the following: TFA (2.8% and 15.4%), FA (12.3% and 22.7%), and EDS (4.4% and 13.4%). Women were more likely to have incident and persistent TFA. Depression was the primary factor predicting the incidence of all three sleep symptoms. However, other health conditions, including respiratory symptoms and cardiovascular disease, and limitation in activities of daily living were important as well. Depression also was the most important factor associated with persistence of these sleep symptoms. The role of other health conditions in determining nonremission was much more limited. Conclusions Incidence of sleep disturbances in the elderly is related to depression, health conditions, and physical functioning. However, persistence of sleep disturbances is best predicted by the presence of depression.
Sources of the catecholaminergic innervation of the trigeminal nucleus caudalis in cat.

Injections of the retrogradely transported fluorescent dye, Evans blue, into the trigeminal nucleus caudalis were combined with the glyoxylic acid histofluorescence technique to determine the sources of catecholamine-containing varicosities innervating nucleus caudalis. Results indicate that the sources of this catecholamine innervation are widespread, originating from cell bodies throughout the brain stem including the medullary catecholamine cell groups as well as the noradrenergic nuclei of the dorsolateral pons, including locus ceruleus, subceruleus, Kolliker-Fuse, and the parabrachial nuclei. A small projection from the presumably dopaminergic neurons of the hypothalamus was also noted. The catecholamine innervation of n. caudalis in the cat is from widespread brain stem sources, a pattern different from the catecholamine innervation of the spinal cord, which receives its major catecholamine input from the Kolliker-Fuse nucleus.
Dyphylline Elimination Kinetics in Lactating Women: Blood to Milk Transfer

A population of 20 normal lactating females between the ages of 20 and 35 years was treated with a single 5 mg/kg intragluteal dose of dyphylline, 7-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)theophylline. The distribution of the drug between blood and milk and its pharmacokinetics of elimination were determined. The apparent volume of distribution (Vd) of dyphylline was found to be 0.505 +/- 0.162 l./kg, the elimination rate constant (Kel) was 0.228 +/- 0.055 hr-1, the biological half-life (t1/2) was 3.21 +/- 0.76 hr, and the total body clearance (CI) was 0.109 +/- 0.036 l./kg/hr. The ratio described by dyphylline distribution between milk and serum (M/S) was 2.08 +/- 0.52. The elimination rate from milk was equivalent to that from blood.
Polysiloxane dizwitterionomers. III. Water sorption

The interaction of water with the various polysiloxane dizwitterionomers and the model compound 4,7-diazaheptyl-4,7-di(3-propane-sulfonate) heptamethyltrisiloxane was studied. The model compound is soluble in water but the polymers swell inhomogeneously when soaked in water. The initial sorption kinetics of these zwitterionomers indicate similar mechanisms of water uptake which is independent of ion concentration (D = 4.7 × 10−7 cm2/sec). The sorption isotherms reveal the high sorptive capacity of these ionomers. Furthermore, the linear relationship between the water uptake and the concentration of ions over a large relative humidity range (0.22 ≤ P/P0 ≤ 0.93) allowed us to treat each phase separately. It has been found that most of the absorbed water molecules are immobilized in the ionic domains. Their concentration in this phase is nearly identical to the sorptive capacity of the model compound.
Effects of Electrical Stimulation and Hot Boning on Color Stability of Aerobic and Vacuum Packaged Restructured Beef Steaks

Color stability of restructured beef steaks processed from beef boned 4 hr postmortem (HB) and 96 hr postmortem (CB) was determined using a Hunter color difference meter and a semi-trained color evaluation panel. Steaks were formulated using ground tenderized (2.5 cm) restructurable meat (75% of formulation), salted preblended meat (3% NaCl + 0.267% BHA, 25% of formulation) and enough ground fat to form steaks of 10% fat. Steaks were aerobically wrapped and vacuum packaged. Hunter L, a, b, a/b values and color panel scores during a 7-day retail display revealed that HB steaks had superior color stability. This was attributed to the ability of NaCl to inhibit glycolysis in the HB preblended meat and to act as a prooxidant of myoglobin in the CB preblended meat.
Hemoglobin Regulation in Chickens

Abstract INTRODUCTION WIDELY varying hemoglobin levels in chickens have been reported in the literature. The earlier readings were reported in percentage of the accepted normal for man as follows: Mack as quoted by Burnett (1908) 87.3, Burnett (1908) 76.0, Kleenberger and Carl (1912) 62.0, and Forkner (1929) 62.9. Forkner found variations during the month of November in an individual hen from 56 to 70. Elvehjem and Hart (1929) found the hemoglobin of young chicks to range between 6 and 8 grams per 100 cc. of blood and called this level normal after failing to raise the level by feeding iron and copper salts in addition to a standard diet. Dukes and Schwarte (1931) reported uncorrected and corrected hemoglobin values for cocks at 16.4 and 13.5 grams respectively, for hens at 12.3 and 9.8 grams respectively, and for pullets at 11.4 and 8.9 grams respectively per 100 cc. of blood. Harmon, Ogden, . . .
Sex differences in the energetic content of reproductive tissues in the Blackeye Goby, Rhinogobiops nicholsii

Differential energetic investment in reproduction between the sexes has been a driving a force of life history theory and sexual selection. However, reproductive costs between the sexes have often been based on morphology, such as gonad mass and gonadosomatic indices (GSI), and few have directly measured the energy content of gonadal tissues in relation to GSI. Using the blackeye goby, Rhinogobiops nicholsii, we measured the energetic content of whole gonadal tissues, specifically testes, ovaries and associated reproductive tissues using oxygen bomb calorimetry. The energy content per gram unit of gonadal tissues was generally predictive of GSI, indicating that GSI is a reasonable measure of energetic costs. Interestingly, although females had greater gonadal mass, GSI and energy content per gram than males, the sex difference in energy content per mass unit was only 13 %, suggesting that gross indices such as gonadal mass or GSI may overestimate energetic costs where instead the cost difference in a unit gram of gonadal tissues between the sexes is smaller than often predicted. This study also demonstrates that although the cost of ovaries is greater than testes, males’ investment in reproductive tissue can be considerable, which is consistent with the often inflated reproductive success for males in haremic mating systems.
The Nonannual, Nonseasonal Breeding Cycle of the Australian Sea Lion, Neophoca cinerea

A population of Australian sea lions, Neophoca cinerea , had a breeding cycle of ca. 17.6 months, with a pupping period of 5 months. Data were collected by using the birth dates of 22 individually recognizable females that were re-identified during 2 or more breeding periods, and by the temporal documentation of the births of 56–85 females during each of 4 breeding periods. Comparison of these data to census data collected since 1973 shows that breeding events shift forward in time to 13.8 days earlier every 18 months.
Spectral Invariant Behavior of Zenith Radiance Around Cloud Edges Observed by ARM SWS

The ARM Shortwave Spectrometer (SWS) measures zenith radiance at 418 wavelengths between 350 and 2170 nm. Because of its 1-sec sampling resolution, the SWS provides a unique capability to study the transition zone between cloudy and clear sky areas. A spectral invariant behavior is found between ratios of zenith radiance spectra during the transition from cloudy to cloud-free. This behavior suggests that the spectral signature of the transition zone is a linear mixture between the two extremes (definitely cloudy and definitely clear). The weighting function of the linear mixture is a wavelength-independent characteristic of the transition zone. It is shown that the transition zone spectrum is fully determined by this function and zenith radiance spectra of clear and cloudy regions. An important result of these discoveries is that high temporal resolution radiance measurements in the clear-to-cloud transition zone can be well approximated by lower temporal resolution measurements plus linear interpolation.
Accuracy and direction of error in the sexing of the skeleton: Implications for paleodemography

Determinations of sex by subjective assessment of the skulls from a skeletal series of known sex were compared to fully independent assessments based on pelves of the same specimens. Within-sex correlations of cranial and pelvic morphologies measured on an android-gynecoid scale were smaller than expected. Subjective assessment by means of the skull compared favorably to that of the linear discriminant functions of Giles and Elliot; however, the direction of error was similar for both procedures. Of course, estimations based on the pelves were generally superior to both in terms of frequency and overall bias of error. The bias of sex estimation for paleodemographic purposes is contingent upon completeness of skeletal remains.
Potential application of optical phased arrays in two-photon three-dimensional optical memories

The potential use of optical phased arrays to address individual bits within a volumetric memory medium is examined by using phase sensitive ray tracing procedures. We demonstrate that a 200 element linear array with cylindrical microlens collimation is capable of addressing two-photon ((lambda) equals 1 micrometers ) activated irradiated volumes of approximately 64 micrometers 3, comparable to the volumetric elements that can be addressed via standard crossed-beam two-photon excitation. The two key advantages of using phased arrays is speed of addressing and the elimination of cleaning pulses. Both advantages dramatically improve read/write speeds as well as signal-to-noise performance of two-photon volumetric memories. We examine four different configurations including collimated linear and spherical arrays as well as binary and pure phased two-dimensional arrays. Although phased arrays with the necessary characteristics have not as yet been constructed, we hope that the present demonstration of their potential advantages will enhance interest in the development of phased arrays for application in volumetric memories.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Affective and Physiological Dimensions of Mate Sexual Response to Erotica and Fantasy

The neglect of research on affective correlates of male sexual response and the isolation of physiological from self-reported measures of arousal are in sharp contrast to theories and clinical interventions involving male sexuality. The present study examined several hypotheses about the affective and physiological response of males during erotic and nonerotic auditory tapes and during selfgenerated fantasy. Measures of penile circumference, heart rate, affective states, perceived physical responses, and self-reported sexual arousal were compared, using 16 sexually functional men between 19 and 63 years old. The results showed that positive affective states were correlated with penile maximum circumference and penile latency, although some negative states were also correlated with latency. Aggression was correlated with maximum penile response to the erotic tape. A variety of self-reported genital and nongenital responses were correlated with penile response to the erotic tape and fantasy, but only nongen...
Xenotransplantation: recent progress and current perspectives

A severe shortage of human transplant donors has sparked interest in the use of animals as a source of organs and tissues for transplantation. Clinical application of xenotransplantation is limited in large part by the severe immunological reaction of the recipient against the graft. This immunological reaction is mediated initially by components of natural immunity such as xenoreactive antibodies, complement and natural killer cells and later by elicited humoral and cellular immune responses which act in concert to disrupt the function of the endothelial lining of blood vessels. The past few years have brought considerable progress in elucidating the molecular and cellular basis of xenograft rejection and in developing strategies to overcome xenograft rejection.
The piezoelectric and piezomagnetic effect on the surface wave velocity of magneto-electro-elastic solids

Abstract The direction dependence of surface wave speed and the influence of electrically and magnetically short/open circuit conditions are investigated in this paper. First, the elastic, piezoelectric and piezomagnetic coefficients in the considered ordinate system are obtained by Bond transformation from that in the crystal axis ordinate system. Then, the secular equation which surface wave speed satisfies is derived from the free traction condition on the surface of half-space with consideration of electrically and magnetically short/open circuit conditions. Some numerical examples are given. The direction dependence of surface wave speed and the influence of short and open circuit conditions are shown graphically.
Gamma-Ray Spectrum of Polonium-209

A polonium sample was produced at Oak Ridge National Laboratory by the bombardment of bismuth targets with 20-Mev protons. The sample contained a mixture of the polonium isotopes of mass 208 and 209 with a negligible amount of the isotope of mass 210. Measurements were made of the isotopic ratio from the molecular spectrum and the alpha activity was determined by calorimetry. The spectrum obtained with a NaI(Tl) crystal and pulse-height analyzer showed the existence of gamma rays with energies of about 270, 570, and 865 kev. The 803-kev gamma ray of ${\mathrm{Po}}^{210}$ was not detected. This spectrum is attributed to ${\mathrm{Po}}^{209}$ since there is no gamma radiation from ${\mathrm{Po}}^{208}$. The intensity of the 865-kev gamma ray relative to the gamma ray of a calibrated ${\mathrm{Po}}^{210}$ sample was estimated to be about 7.5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ quanta per ${\mathrm{Po}}^{209}$ alpha particle. Coincidence measurements between various pairs of gamma rays indicated that only the 270- and 570-kev quanta were in cascade and existed with about the same relative intensity as the 865-kev gamma ray.
Interobserver agreement using computed radiography in the adult intensive care unit

Rationale and Objectives. We determined whether computed radiographs in an adult intensive care unit produce greater agreement between readers in descriptions of radiologic findings and interval changes. Methods. Fifty-six conventional radiographs and 56 computed radiographs were obtained on 28 patients. Computed and conventional radiographs were imaged simultaneously in a single exposure with the use of a sandwich cassette. The two sets of films per patient were taken less than 1 week apart. Results. Four readers evaluated the chest films and judged interval changes with the use of standardized confidence scales. Overall exposure and film quality also were evaluated. Computed radiographs were rated better in overall quality. Tubes and lines were detected with comparable accuracy. Interobserver agreement in the evaluation of radiologic descriptors was generally greater with computed radiographs (intraclass correlation). No differences were noted in interobserver agreement in the judgment of interval changes. Conclusions. The diagnostic usefulness of computed radiography is comparable to conventional films in the intensive care unit. The higher interobserver agreement rate for radiologic descriptors with computed radiography is an added advantage of the system.
A meta-analysis of MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphisms and risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children.

Background Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T and A1298C polymorphisms have been implicated in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) risk, but previously published studies were inconsistent and recent meta-analyses were not adequate. Procedures In a meta-analysis of 21 publications with 4,706 cases and 7,414 controls, we used more stringent inclusion method and summarized data on associations between MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphisms and childhood ALL risk. Results We found an overall association between 677T variant genotypes and reduced childhood ALL risk. Specifically, in the dominant genetic model, an association was found in a fixed-effect (TT + CT vs. CC: OR = 0.92; 95% CI = 0.85-0.99) but not random-effect model, whereas such an association was observed in both homozygote genetic model (TT vs. CC: OR = 0.80; 95% CI = 0.70-0.93 by fixed effects and OR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.65-0.93 by random effects) and recessive genetic model (TT vs. CC + CT: OR = 0.83; 95% CI = 0.72-0.95 by fixed effects and OR = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.73-0.97 by random effects). These associations were also observed in subgroups by ethnicity: for Asians in all models except for the dominant genetic model by random effect and for Caucasians in all models except for the recessive genetic model. However, the A1298C polymorphism did not appear to have an effect on childhood ALL risk. Conclusions These results suggest that the MTHFR C677T, but not A1298C, polymorphism is a potential biomarker for childhood ALL risk.
SOME RECENT STUDIES IN SOCIAL ACQUIESCENCE

Since publication of the Social Acquiescence scale accompanied by preliminary evaluations (Bzss, 1956), a number of studies have been completed including several unpublished analyses of interest. The test of 56 proverbs, to be accepted as true or rejected by examinees, was administered by Robert Bond to 20 male senior Chemical or Electrical Engineering majors at LSU and 16 upperclassmen majoring in Psychology. The Psychology majors earned a mean of 19.4 in social acquiescence while engineers earned a significantly different mean of 33.8 resembling closely the mean of 32.6 obtained for 1491 LSU freshmen in general. There was hardly any overlap berween the number of proverbs accepted by psychology students and the number accepted by engineering seniors. Another extremely low-scoring group was uncovered by Dr. Edgar Schein who gave the scale to 50 first year graduate students in management at MIT. Their median score was only 18. This low value contrasted significantly with a mean of 26.9 for a group of 45 LSU seniors and graduate students from a course in Industrial Psychology at LSU reported earlier (Bass, 1956). Gaier and Bass (1959) found means of 28.7 and 29.9 for Kansas and Maryland freshmen while Hoffman (1960) reported a mean of 24.0 for Washington State scudents. One guesses that an interesting map could be drawn of the United Sra~es showing systematic fluctuations from "high acquiescence areas" of the Deep South to "low acquiescense areas" in New England and the West Coasr with intermediate values occurring in the Border States. Further, the performance of LSU Psychology seniors points to the possible sensitivity of the Social Acquiescence scale to a specific educational effect of increasing skepticism, assuming that this performance was not due to selection factors alone. Social acquiescence seems to be working as a negative predictor of supervisory success according to some unpublished work with sales supervision by the author and the uses to which the scale is being put by a large utility company. The high degree of selection and the outstanding training at MIT in contrast to what is possible at an average state university with unselected students may be reflected in the performance of MIT in contrast to almost comparable LSU scudents. This, in turn, fits with the falling trend in social acquiescence associated with increasing education from high school to graduate school reporred earlier (Bass, 1956). Consistent with these results also is
Phased array ultrasound imaging through planar tissue layers

Conventional ultrasound imaging devices are designed based on the assumption of a homogeneous tissue medium of constant acoustic velocity = 1540 m/sec. However, the body consists of tissue layers of varying thicknesses and velocities which range from 1470 m/sec in fat to 3200 m/sec in skull bone. Refraction effects from these layers degrade ultrasound image quality. In this paper, pulse-echo ultrasound imaging is modeled as imaging an organ of interest through an intervening planar tissue layer, such as liver through fat in the abdomen or brain through skull bone in the adult head. Refraction effects from planar tissue layer interfaces are analyzed using Snell's law and measured using phantoms. We also introduce an on-line phased array correction technique based on planar tissue layers to restore ultrasound image quality. We conclude that fat/organ planar interfaces do not degrade image quality significantly. However, refraction effects at a skull/brain planar interface degrades resolution and target acquisition and introduces geometric distortion. Our plane layer phased array correction technique significantly improves image quality in phantoms through lucite aberrators and improves adult cephalic ultrasound image quality when used through the top of the adult skull. The correction technique is robust even in the presence of inaccurate estimates of skull thickness.
Silicon oxide in an iron(III) oxide matrix: the sol–gel synthesis and characterization of Fe–Si mixed oxide nanocomposites that contain iron oxide as the major phase

Abstract The synthesis of Fe–Si mixed oxide nanocomposite materials in which the iron(III) oxide is the major component is described. In a typical synthesis, the iron oxide precursor, FeCl3 · 6H2O, was mixed with a silica precursor, tetramethyl- or tetraethylorthosilicate, in ethanol and gelled using an organic epoxide. The composition of the resulting materials was varied from Fe/Si (mol/mol)=1–5 by adjusting the amount of silica precursor added to the FeCl3 · 6H2O solution. Further processing of the gels in supercritical CO2 resulted in monolithic, porous aerogel nanocomposite materials with surface areas ranging from 350–450 m2/g. The bulk materials are composed of iron(III) oxide/silica particles that vary in size from 5–20 nm depending on the epoxide used for gelation. Iron(III) oxide and silica dispersion throughout the bulk material is extremely uniform on the nanoscale. The synthesis method presented is general for the synthesis of several other metal oxide/silicon oxide nanocomposite materials.
Understanding Selectivity of the Na+/K+ -ATPase using a Computational Approach

The Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) is a membrane protein that transports Na+ ions out of the cell and K+ ions into it against their concentration gradient. The high selectivity of NKA for Na+ or K+ can be explained by distinct affinities of the two ionic species for the binding sites, by different kinetic barriers encountered to reach them, or by both. Understanding the exact location of binding sites is the first step in determining the origin of selectivity in NKA. We used molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations to study ion binding. We show that the exact location of the binding sites, the thermodynamic affinity of the two ions and the cooperativity of the binding depend crucially on the protonation state of the binding residues. Importantly, this protonation state changes when the NKA shifts between the sodium and potassium occluded states.
Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae genital infections in a publicly funded pregnancy termination clinic: empiric vs. indicated treatment?

Abstract Background This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of lower genital tract infections with Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae among women seeking first-trimester pregnancy termination in a same-day abortion clinic in a public hospital. Study Design We reviewed CT and N. gonorrhoeae test results of 1974 women who underwent a first-trimester abortion for a period of 6 months between January 1, 2006, and June 30, 2006, at a large public hospital. Results During our study period, 225 (11.4%) women tested positive for chlamydia infection and 51 (2.6%) women tested positive for gonorrhea using probe technology. Twenty-two (1.2%) women tested positive for both. Conclusion We found a comparatively high prevalence rate of chlamydia-positive patients (11.4%) in our publicly funded pregnancy termination clinic. Because of infrequent follow-up in this patient population, we suggest screening and providing the epidemiologic treatment for CT genital infection for all women undergoing a same-day abortion procedure. It may prove cost-effective. Our prevalence rate of gonorrhea was lower (2.6%). The value of providing epidemiologic treatment for gonorrhea to all patients undergoing a same-day abortion procedure should be reexamined in controlled trials.
The role of bone scanning in the cancer patient

The past few years have been notable by the torrent of work which has served to establish bone scanning as one of the most useful nuclear medicine procedures. The quantitative radiopharmacology of the 99mTc phosphates has great possibilities for obtaining reliable and reproducible bone scans of high quality. Bone scans are extremely useful in staging malignant disease, particularly with primaries involving breast, prostate, lung, kidney and thyroid, but are also useful in the work up of the lymphomas, in the female genital cancer tract, and primary bone malignancy. The full potential of these compounds in the care of the cancer patient has been confirmed.
Width-scaled confidence bands for survival functions

Abstract A popular simultaneous confidence band for survival functions is the equal precision band of Nair [1984. Confidence bands for survival functions with censored data: a comparative study. Technometrics 26, 265–275] This band is found by adjusting the level of Wald-type pointwise confidence intervals centered on the Kaplan–Meier estimator. The present paper develops a complementary method of adjusting pointwise confidence intervals to produce a simultaneous band. Our approach is to scale the width, rather than the level, of the pointwise confidence intervals. The resulting adjustment of the pointwise band, called a width-scaled band, provides an attractive alternative to the equal precision band. Empirical likelihood-based width-scaled bands are studied in the one- and two-sample censored data settings. An example with real data is included.