cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Open Issues on TCP for Mobile Computing

Abstract We discuss the design principles of TCP within the context of heterogeneous wired/wireless networks and mobile networking. We identify three shortcomings in TCP''s behavior: (i) the protocol''s error detection mechanism, which does not distinguish different types of errors and thus does not suffice for heterogeneous wired/wireless environments, (ii) the error recovery, which is not responsive to the distinctive characteristics of wireless networks such as transient or burst errors due to handoffs and fading channels, and (iii) the protocol strategy, which does not control the tradeoff between performance measures such as goodput and energy consumption, and often entails a wasteful effort of retransmission and energy expenditure. We discuss a solution-framework based on selected research proposals and the associated evaluation criteria for the suggested modifications. We highlight an important angle that did not attract the required attention so far: the need for new performance metrics, appropriate for evaluating the impact of protocol strategies on battery-powered devices.
Deterrence and Macro-Level Perceptions of Punishment Risks Is There a “Collective Wisdom”?

Prior research indicates that individual perceptions of the risk of punishment for criminal behavior are unrelated to actual risks of punishment in the areas in which individuals reside. It could be argued, however, that the relevant policy question is whether variation in actual punishment levels affects average perceptions of risk among aggregates. Scholars have argued that there is “collective wisdom” in the perceptions of collectivities of humans, even if the views of individuals are inaccurate. This thesis is tested using survey data on individual perceptions of the risks of legal punishment for crimes, aggregated up to the level of county populations. The authors find that the aggregate perceptions of county populations are generally not related to actual county levels of the certainty, severity, and swiftness of punishment. Thus, neither the perceptions of individuals nor the average perceptions of populations have any significant association with actual risks of punishment.
Analgesia following arthroscopic surgery: Comparison of diflunisal and acetaminophen with codeine

In this study, 40 postarthroscopy patients were treated with either diflunisal or acetaminophen with codeine to control postoperative pain. In comparing these two drugs, better known as Dolobid and Tylenol #3, the results were comparable, though acetaminophen with codeine seemed to have a more rapid onset of action. Diflunisal provided better continuity of analgesia and less frequent dosing.
The design of a multi-micro-computer system

Continuing advances in semiconductor technology now makes practical the construction of multi-micro-processor systems with tens to hundreds of processors. We are currently involved in the design and construction of a multi-micro-processor system to experimentally investigate the problems of building and programming systems with a large number of processors. The LSI-11 microcomputer is the basic “computer module” that provides processing power and primary memory. The interconnection scheme between the computer modules allows the processors to cooperate in a true multiprocessor fashion: they can share and efficiently access all of primary memory. A number of working groups are now investigating the central problems facing the design and successful application of reliable multi-micro-processor systems and these problems will also be discussed.
Optimal engineering design of spur gear sets

Abstract The constant pressure to build less expensive, lighter weight, quieter running and more powerful machinery and vehicles has resulted in a rich knowledge base for gear design. Although gear design is regarded as a highly complicated art, there are proven technologies and methodologies available to aid the designer in this difficult task. Most optimization technologies and methodologies found in the wealth of published information on gear design have been focused on problems where one design variable at a time is optimized, for instance, center distance, weight or wear resistance. This research takes a different approach for optimal gear design. Four objectives are listed and optimized simultaneously, under a given set of design constraints. In this paper, the mathematical formulation and an algorithmic procedure to solve this multiple-objective gear design problem are discussed. The results are compared with those from previous research.
Spin–orbit coupling in I·CO2 and I·OCS van der Waals complexes: beyond the pseudo-diatomic approximation

Abstract We investigate theoretically the electronic structure of I·CO2 and I·OCS van der Waals complexes including spin–orbit interaction. For the T-shaped geometry of I·CO2, we calculate the potentials using a fully polyatomic treatment and compare the results to the widely used pseudo-diatomic approximation. The latter becomes increasingly invalid at I–CO2 distances shorter than 4 A. We calculate the potentials of linear I·SCO and I·OCS, and analyze the zero-order electronic structure of nonlinear I·OCS. We also discuss the validity of treating the spin–orbit interaction in I·CO2 and I·OCS as an atomic property of iodine and find this approximation justified at characteristic van der Waals distances.
Molecular spectra in the vacuum ultraviolet

Abstract Vacuum ultraviolet spectra of diatomic molecules since 1950, and polyatomic molecules since 1940 are reviewed in detail. In addition to a theoretical discussion, the data obtainable are presented in the form of tables which list the spectral region, molecular constants, characteristics of the transitions, intensity data, ionization potentials, and references. A brief discussion of the application of the data to astrophysical problems is presented.
Populations of predaceous natural enemies developing on insect-resistant and susceptible tomato in North Carolina

Abstract Naturally occurring populations of immature and adult Geocoris punctipes, adult Coleomegilla maculata and immature coccinellids were monitored on field-grown tomato lines susceptible and resistant to Manduca sexta and Helicoverpa zea. Helicoverpa zea and Heliothis virescens eggs and small larvae that serve as prey for these predators also were monitored. More H. zea and H. virescens eggs and small larvae were found on resistant than on susceptible plant lines. However, similar populations of large H. zea and H. virescens larvae were found on resistant and susceptible plants. The number of adult Geocoris punctipes, adult Coleomegilla maculata and immature coccinellids on resistant plants was always as high or higher than the number on susceptible plants. The data demonstrate no incompatibility of host-plant resistance with biological control provided by these predaceous insects, but indicate that the number of G. punctipes and coccinellids required to provide effective biological control may develop too late in the season to be of practical value. Large populations of stilt bugs ( Jalysus wickhami, Hemiptera: Berytidae) and spiders were observed to occur earlier in the growing season than either G. punctipes or coccinellids and may be a significant source of mortality for H. zea eggs and small larvae.
The Impact of Music Interventions on Anxiety for Adult Cancer Patients A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

Introduction. Listening to music can positively benefit neurophysiological and emotional responses as well as promote relaxation, which may be especially beneficial for cancer patients undergoing painful and anxiety inducing treatments. The purpose of the present study was to conduct an evidenced-based systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of music interventions to reduce anxiety for adult cancer patients undergoing medical treatment. Methods. A systematic literature search was conducted and data were abstracted from all eligible studies. Studies were included if they tested a music therapy randomized controlled trial in adult cancer patients (in active treatment), assessed anxiety postintervention using a validated measure, were published in English (or were translatable), and accessible in full text. Studies were qualitatively reviewed by the first author and 2 raters independently assessed each study using the PEDro scale. Standardized mean differences between experimental...
The Mechanism And Dynamics Of Infrared Nonlinear TIR-Transmission Switching With A Liquid Crystal Film

We have developed a detailed theory for the two possible modes of switching at a nonlinear film bounded by two dielectric media. Because of the fact that the film is thin, and the high reflectivity of the boundary surfaces near the total internal reflection state, several factors have to be taken into account. These include reflection feedback, nonlinear Fabry Perot effects, nonlocal responses, intensity and angular dependences of time scales and switching threshold, optimal transmission, etc. Using liquid crystal as the nonlinear medium we have also performed experimental verifications of the theory.
Hepato-Atrial Dissociation: Report of Two Cases and Clinical Implications

Two clinical cases are reported illustrating the rare condition in which the liver does not follow the situs of the right atrium. Both patients had right-sided liver and cardiac apex, a condition usually associated with severe intracardiac defects. Both proved to have mirror-image dextrocardia with normal intracardiac anatomy or correctable lesions (one case). The behavior of the inferior vena cava in these cases is illustrated. Embryologic considerations are presented concerning the hepato-cavo-atrial concordance rule.
Thrust generation by an airfoil in hover modes

A small airfoil is operated in combined harmonic plunging and pitching motions to generate thrust in a still air environment. By full utilization of dynamic stall vortices large thrust coefficients were attained. The vortical signature of thrust is a simple vortex street with the character of a jet stream.
Designing Brain Healthy Environments for Intergenerational Programs

Intergenerational relationships are at the center of programs designed to bring younger and older populations together for their mutual benefit. The physical spaces used for intergenerational interactions should be designed in such a way as to promote the development of positive relationships among people of different ages. Research in the neurosciences provides a basis for creating environments that are conducive to intergenerational interactions that stimulate cognitive interest and rewarding social engagement. This article will bring elements of environmental design together with brain research principles to outline appropriate applications for intergenerational programming, including arranging spaces and planning activities with a participant-centered approach. The goal is to provide a scientifically based rationale for organizing environments that are safe and welcoming for all age groups and also support multisensory experiences that stimulate positive human interaction.
A K-ABC and WISC-R comparison for Latino learning-disabled children of limited english proficiency

This study examined the performance of Latino learning-disabled children of limited English proficiency on the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC) and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R). Correlational procedures and direct comparisons were used. Forty-two children from the far south of Texas participated in this study. The WISC-R Full Scale IQ was significantly lower than the K-ABC Mental Processing Composite (t = 4.91, p < .001). The Full Scale IQ and the Mental Processing Composite standard scores correlated .63 (p < .001). All subscales of the WISC-R and the K-ABC correlated significantly except the K-ABC Sequential scale, which failed to correlate significantly with any WISC-R scales. This sample had particular difficulty with the WISC-R Verbal scale and the K-ABC Achievement scale (means = 68.14 and 67.67, respectively). Claims of construct validity for the K-ABC are upheld. This sample's difficulty with sequential processing is discussed.
Stochastic analysis of a system operating in a multiple environment

Abstract This paper deals with the analysis of a single unit system operating in a multiple environment. The system consists of three types of states—normal, abnormal and failed. Using the regenerative point technique in a Markov renewal process, several reliability characteristics of interest are obtained.
Using OpenGL for imaging

ABSTRACT Although OpenGL is not usually thought of as a library forimaging, it was designed to expose the capabilities of modemframe buffer hardware. The emphasis in OpenGL is on 3Dgraphics (i.e., geometry), but OpenGL also includes a fairlyrich set of capabilities for 2D imaging. This paper describesthe capabilities of OpenGL for imaging applications, includ-ing pixel transfer operations (draw, read, copy); color lookuptables; linear transformation of color values; pixel conversioncapabilities; and pixel operations such as blending, masking,and clipping. Several recently proposed extensions to OpenGLadd significant capabilities to the core imaging model, includ-ing convolution, window level mapping, and image transfor-mation and resampling. These capabilities will be discussed in the context of the pixel processing pipeline defined by OpenGL. KEYWORDS Image display system, imaging API, OpenGL, display algo-rithms, interactive image processing INTRODUCTION OpenGL is rapidly gaining popularity with both applicationprogrammers and hardware vendors as a strategic applicationprogramming interface (API) for graphics and imaging. Appli-cation developers are embracing OpenGL because of its richand flexible feature set, and because it is supported on a widerange of workstations and PC platforms. Hardware vendorssupport OpenGL because it provides a way to expose the fea-
Electrothermal Actuator Reliability Studies

Shallow V type symmetric electrothermal actuators which have a central shuttle and overall lengths of ~610 μm, leg widths between 3 and 4.5 μm, and offset angles between 0.7 and 2.3° have been subjected to short term, high stress drive currents under different environmental conditions. For all the devices and all test conditions, ~200 mW power levels lead to plastic deformation both for DC actuation and square wave modulation at the limit of the device’s bandwidth. Also, it is noted that under vacuum conditions the hottest portions of the surface roughen significantly and there is significant discoloration of the silicon nitride under the device. SEM analysis of cleaved surfaces of these vacuum actuated devices shows significant near surface pitting.
Liquid-propellant rocket abort fire model.

During a rocket launch pad abort, a hazardous payload material can be subjected to a severe thermal environment from the resulting fireball. A model has been developed which specifies heat flux from the fireball as a function of time for any initial propellant quantity. This model can be used as a thermal design criterion for hazardous component protection systems. Existing data support the validity of the model.
On the parametric and NEXRAD-radar sensitivities of a distributed hydrologic model suitable for operational use

Abstract The recent deployment of the NEXRAD (WSR-88D) radars in the United States has made spatially distributed rainfall data available in an operational environment. In addition, national databases now exist with high-resolution digital terrain-elevation, soils, and land-use and land-cover data. The availability of such spatially distributed data brings into focus the question of the utility of hydrologic models with spatially distributed parameters and input in an operational environment. Are the data and models accurate and reliable enough to allow their use in an operational environment? The present study discusses a methodology for addressing this issue based on a sensitivity analysis of event streamflow to parameter and radar input within a Monte Carlo framework for the Illinois River basin in Oklahoma and Arkansas. This framework allows the incorporation of parametric and radar-rainfall uncertainties in the analysis and illustrates their effects on the results of the sensitivity. The particular distributed model used incorporates components that are adaptations of operational models used often in a spatially-lumped manner to produce estimates of soil water, runoff and streamflow in watersheds with an area of order 10 3 km 2 . A GIS is used to sub-divide the study watershed into small sub-catchment units with areas of a few hundred square kilometers. Soil water accounting and channel routing models are used to generate runoff and streamflow over the network of sub-catchments and streams. Spatially-distributed soil databases are used to condition relevant soil–water model parameters to reflect the soil field capacity. The main conclusions are that: (a) the distributed model forced by NEXRAD data produces results comparable to those produced by the operational spatially-lumped models using raingauge data; (b) sensitivity of flow statistics on various spatial scales to parameters and radar-rainfall input that are uncertain is scale dependent; and (c) in view of parametric and input uncertainty, in several cases, a spatially lumped model has response that cannot be statistically distinguished from that of the distributed model. This study is an initial step toward understanding the issues surrounding the use of distributed models in an operational environment. Repeating the sensitivity analysis for other areas with different geomorphologic, soils and climate characteristics is necessary to investigate aspects pertaining to higher variability in soils and terrain elevation, and the presence of snow accumulation and melt. Sensitivity analysis of soil water estimates to parameters and radar rainfall input is also a natural extension of this work.
Placental Transport of Thyroxine

Measurements of BEI, triiodothyronine 131I resin uptake (T3U) and thyroxine 131I resin uptake (T4U) were conducted in 15 women with uncomplicated pregnancies and in their infants at the time of delivery and values were compared with those of euthyroid adults. In 13 additional women at term (with uncomplicated pregnancies) given intravenous loads of 500–8000 μg sodium Lthyroxine, BEI and T3U were measured before and 1 hr postloading and in maternal and cord blood specimens at delivery. In control maternal subjects mean BEI was significantly higher than in the newborn or in euthyroid adults. Newborn and euthyroid adult values did not differ significantly. Mean T3U and T4U in these subjects increased progressively from maternal to newborn to euthyroid adult groups. These data suggest that the normal gradient of placental thyroxine transport is fetal-maternal. After maternal thyroxine loading, newborn BEI and T3U increased progressively with increasing maternal thyroxine load and increasing diffusion time, bu...
Cuticle proteins of the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis, abdomen : structural similarities and glycosylation

Abstract Cuticle proteins are thought to be important in defining the structural and functional differences occurring in insect cuticle. In order to explain and better understand the structural similarities among the cuticle proteins of the cotton boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis Boheman, described in a previous study (Stiles and Leopold, 1990, Insect Biochem.20, 113–125) three series of monoclonal antibody producing hybridoma cell lines were produced. Larval, pupal or adult cuticle proteins were used as antigens. While some of the monoclonal antibodies were specific for one or two cuticle proteins from a single developmental stage, the majority showed multiple cuticle protein binding patterns on Western blots. To determine whether this cross-reaction was due to common oligosaccharide chains bound to the proteins, lectins were used to probe Western blots. Many of the cuticle proteins were found to be glycosylated. The majority of the Con A reactive carbohydrate could be removed from the protein by N-glycosidase F digestion (specific for N-asparagine linked carbohydrate). N-glycosidase F digestion did not reduce the multiple cross-reactions of the monoclonal antibodies, nor did periodate oxidation of the CP. The carbohydrate remaining after enzyme digestion is presumably O-linked to serine/threonine.
The Impact of the Sharing Economy on the Hotel Industry: Evidence from Airbnb's Entry Into the Texas Market

Spurred by technological advancement, a number of decentralized peer-to-peer markets, now colloquially known as the sharing economy, have emerged as alternative suppliers of goods and services traditionally provided by long-established industries. A central question surrounding the sharing economy regards its long-term impact: will peer-to-peer platforms materialize as viable mainstream alternatives to traditional providers, or will they languish as niche markets? In this paper, we study Airbnb, a sharing economy pioneer offering short-term accommodation. Combining data from Airbnb and the Texas hotel industry, we estimate the impact of Airbnb's entry into the Texas market on hotel room revenue, and study the market response of hotels. To identify Airbnb's causal impact on hotel room revenue, we use a difference-in-differences empirical strategy that exploits the significant spatiotemporal variation in the patterns of Airbnb adoption across citylevel markets. We estimate that each 10% increase in Airbnb supply results in a 0:37% decrease in monthly hotel room revenue. In Austin, where Airbnb supply is highest, the impact on hotel revenue exceeds 10%. We find that Airbnb's impact is non-uniformly distributed, with lower-priced hotels, and hotels not catering to business travel being the most affected segments. Finally, we find that affected hotels have responded by reducing prices, an impact that benefits all consumers, not just participants in the sharing economy. Our work provides empirical evidence that the sharing economy is making inroads by successfully competing with, and acquiring market share from, incumbent firms.
Identification of the receptor for erythropoietin on human and murine erythroleukemia cells and modulation by phorbol ester and dimethyl sulfoxide

Abstract Erythropoietin, a glycoprotein that regulates erythropoiesis, initiates its biological effects by binding to a cell-surface receptor. Little is known about the structure of the erythropoietin receptor and the events that follow binding of erythropoietin to its receptor, in part because of the difficulty of obtaining sufficient quantities of cells that express the erythropoietin receptor. We used both iodinated and metabolically labeled erythropoietin to characterize the receptor on a variety of erythroleukemia cell lines not previously tested, and we have identified both human and murine cell lines that display large numbers of erythropoietin receptors. Both erythropoietin-responsive and -nonresponsive cell lines exhibit a single class of binding sites. The human erythroleukemia cell line OCIM1 exhibits approximately 3000 erythropoietin receptors per cell with a Kd of 280 pM. The erythropoietin-responsive Rauscher red 5-1.5 murine erythroleukemia cell line displays approximately 1700 receptors per cell with a Kd of 440 pM. The GM979 murine erythroleukemia cell line has approximately 1600 receptors per cell with a Kd of 660 pM. Induction of the erythroid phenotype by dimethyl sulfoxide or its suppression by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate was accompanied by an increase or decrease, respectively, in erythropoietin receptor number. Affinity crosslinking of labeled erythropoietin to the receptor identified two proteins corresponding to estimated molecular masses of 95 and 105 kDa. The OCIM1, Rauscher, and GM979 erythroleukemia cell lines provide a useful model for the study of postreceptor signaling events, as well as a convenient source for purification of the erythropoietin receptor.
A characterization of Ramsey equilibrium

Abstract Consider a perfect foresight equilibrium model with a single capital good, a borrowing constraint and many infinitely lived households with fixed, but different discount factors. The steady-state capital stock is held by the most patient household (Quart. J. Econ. 95 (1980), 375–382; Econ. J. 38 (1928), 543–559). An example shows the total capital can exhibit an equilibrium cycle in contrast to the stability property of the one household case. In the example, only the most patient household saves and his income deceases in capital. We give a condition implying income is increasing in capital and use it to show any equilibrium converges to the steady state.
Eligibility for cholesterol referral in community-dwelling older adults. The Cardiovascular Health Study.

Abstract ▪Objectives:To assess the proportion of community-dwelling adults aged 65 years or older who are eligible for referral for lipoprotein analysis and intervention according to the National C...
Measuring Student Engagement, Knowledge, and Perceptions of Climate Change in an Introductory Environmental Geology Course

This research examines a semester-long introductory environmental geology course, which emphasized climate science using an Earth systems approach and employed a multipronged teaching strategy comp...
Die Wirkung von Wasser und Alkali auf die Koagulation von Eiweiß

Wir haben gesehen, das unverdunntes und mit Wasser verdunntes Eiweis sich verschieden verhalten und das der Einflus des „Losungsmittels“ nicht vernachlassigt werden kann. Obgleich die Untersuchung der in Wasser gelosten Proteine als analytisches Verfahren oder als Mas des Zustandes des in den Sekretionen des Korpers gelosten Stoffes von gewissem Wert ist, ergibt sie keinen Aufschlus uber sein Gesamtverhalten oder seine Wirkung im lebenden Gewebe. Nur in dem Studium unverdunnter und unveranderter Proteinsubstanzen parallelisieren wir Bedingungen im Protoplasma. Und nur durch Untersuchungen in dem konzentrierten Bereich konnen wir die Ursachen der Koagulationen, die bei pathologischen Zustanden eintreten, und die Methoden ihrer Umkehrung entdecken.
Proposal for the direct measurement of a Fermi velocity

Abstract It is pointed out that “time of flight” measurement in conjunction with previously reported size effect experiments allow the direct determination of a local Fermi velocity.
Rehabilitation and Educational Considerations for Children with Cochlear Implants

A growing number of children with severe-to-profound hearing loss are receiving cochlear implants. This article provides information about the various educational and rehabilitation options for these children, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to rehabilitation planning and implementation. Decisions about such options should be individualized and are informed by several factors including age at implantation and family expectations and desires. A review of legislation affecting the education of children with hearing loss is also provided.
Non-cooperative edge-assisted route adaptation of aggregated traffic

We present a QoS-enhanced routing framework designed for an administrative system that runs a QoS-aware link-state routing protocol supporting MPLS. This routing framework is based on using only edge nodes and does not require any modifications at the core. The framework also does not employ any bandwidth reservation; instead, congestion is relieved by adaptive rerouting of aggregated traffic flows. Route oscillation is prevented by using randomization-based back-off techniques for triggering route changes. The proposed mechanism is distributed and non-cooperative, which makes it suitable for practical implementation. The results of simulations demonstrate that a significant reduction of packet drop ratio can be achieved with a moderate number of path shifts.
The use of methyl methacrylate cranioplasty in forehead reconstruction

The use of methyl methacrylate for forehead reconstruction in congenital anomalies, tumor infection, trauma and cosmetic defects is presented. Seventy-one cases are analyzed with long term follow-up. The complication rate is low and the operating time is short. This is recommended as a rapid and safe method of forehead reconstruction. It should be avoided in the growing child and if there is any suggestion of direct connection with sinuses.
Unit conversion as a source of misclassification in US birthweight data.

Objectives. This study explains why frequency polygons for US birthweights in 100-g weight classes appear spiky compared with their European counterparts. Methods. A probability model is used to describe how unit conversion can induce misclassification. Birthweights from the United States and Norway are used to illustrate that misclassification operates in grouped US data. Results. Spikiness represents misclassification that arises when measured birthweights are rounded to the nearer ounce, converted to grams, and then grouped into weight classes. Misclassification is ameliorated, not eliminated, with 200-g weight classes. Conclusions. Possible biases from misclassification should be carefully evaluated when fitting statistical models to grouped US birthweights. (Am J Public Health. 2000;90:127‐129)
Wedge and needle liver biopsies show discordant histopathology in morbidly obese patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.

Background: Controversy exists over whether or not single-needle liver biopsies are sufficient to compare histological parameters in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Aims: To identify sampling variability, we biopsied four liver specimens per patient, based on biopsy size (needle vs wedge) and location (left vs right lobe), immediately prior to bariatric Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. Methods: Ten prospectively enrolled, morbidly obese patients underwent 40 laparoscopy-guided biopsies; two needle and two wedge from each of 16 left and 16 right liver lobes. The Kappa coefficient for concordance compared histological parameters from left and right lobe needle- and wedge biopsies. Wedge biopsies were considered our ‘Gold Standard’. Results: Each patient had two wedge- and two needle liver biopsies. Kappa concordance between all needle and wedge biopsies from right and left lobes showed variability. Wedge- and needle liver biopsies from contralateral lobes had higher concordance with each other, compared to ipsilateral needle/wedge biopsy pairs. Contralateral wedge pairs had higher concordance than contralateral needle/needle pairs. There were no biopsy complications. Conclusions: Wedge biopsy pairs had the best Kappa concordance but contralateral needle/needle biopsy pairs had good Kappa concordance. There were no complications from the 40 needle- and wedge liver biopsies, confirming the safety of laporoscopic multi-biopsy in both liver lobes.
Fluorescence in situ hybridization is necessary to detect an association between chromosome aberrations and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon exposure in utero and reveals nonrandom chromosome involvement.

Chromosome aberrations are associated with environmental exposures in infants and children. Recently we reported that prenatal exposure to airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was significantly (P < 0.01) associated with stable aberration frequencies in cord blood from a subset of 60 newborns from the Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health Prospective Cohort Study (Bocskay K et al. [ 2005]: Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 14:506–511). To determine whether the environmental exposures may be targeting specific chromosomes and to compare various methods for measuring chromosome aberrations, we further evaluated this same subset of subjects composed of African-American and Dominican nonsmoking mother–newborn pairs residing in low-income neighborhoods of New York City, and exposed to varying levels of airborne PAHs. Chromosome aberrations were measured in cord blood lymphocytes, both by whole chromosome probe (WCP) fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and traditional Giemsa-staining. Prenatal exposures were assessed by personal air monitoring. Breaks in chromosomes 1–6, as detected by WCP FISH, were nonrandomly distributed, underscoring the importance of appropriate chromosome probe selection to capture cytogenetic damage in response to exposure. FISH for stable aberrations was found to be a more sensitive method for detecting aberration frequencies associated with environmental exposures, when compared with FISH for unstable aberrations or Giemsa-staining for aberrations. Together, these results suggest that PAHs may be targeting specific chromosomes and highlight the importance of using the more sensitive detection methods to assess risk in populations with low levels of exposure. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Thermal aging of impact‐modified polycarbonate

Glassy polymers undergo relatively rapid physical aging just below their glass transition temperatures that can lead to embrittlement of normally tough materials like polycarbonate (PC). One approach for solving the embrittlement problem is to incorporate an impact modifier that can cause toughening when the matrix loses its inherent ductility due to physical aging. The effects of thermal aging below the glass transition temperature of polycarbonate on selected properties of blends of PC with various core-shell impact modifiers have been studied. Observed changes in mechanical properties are related to rubber content, free volume, fracture morphology, discoloration, enthalpy relaxation, glass transition temperature, intrinsic viscosity, and dynamic mechanical behavior. Blend mechanical properties are affected by chemical changes in the impact modifier that occur simultaneous with the physical aging of the PC matrix. The degradation mechanisms involved reduce the effectiveness of the modifier for toughening and also lead to a loss of molecular weight of the PC matrix. Blends containing 10% methacrylated butadiene-styrene (MBS) core-shell impact modifiers give the maximum extension of time to embrittlement at 135°C in air. More thermally stable modifiers are required for further extending the ductile mode of failure for physically aged PC blends.
Carbonate reservoir characterization using seismic diffraction imaging

Although extremely prolific worldwide, carbonate reservoirs are challenging to characterize using traditional seismic reflection imaging techniques. We used computational experiments with synthetic models to demonstrate the possibility that seismic diffraction imaging has of overcoming common obstacles associated with seismic reflection imaging and aiding interpreters of carbonate systems. Diffraction imaging improved the horizontal resolution of individual voids in a karst reservoir model and identification of heterogeneous regions below the resolution of reflections in a reservoir-scale model.
Surveillance and detection of erythromycin resistance in Bordetella pertussis isolates recovered from a pediatric population in the Intermountain West region of the United States.

Forty-seven Bordetella pertussis isolates recovered from January 1985 to June 1997 at Primary Children’s Medical Center were tested for erythromycin resistance. Agar dilution MICs were determined on Regan-Lowe agar. Forty-six isolates were found to be erythromycin susceptible (all MICs were less than or equal to 0.12 mg/ml). One isolate was found to be erythromycin resistant (MIC, 32 mg/ml). In addition, we compared Etest MIC results and disk diffusion zone diameter measurements, performed on commercially prepared ReganLowe agar, to the agar dilution MIC result. Etest MIC and/or disk diffusion testing on commercial Regan-Lowe agar appears to be an adequate method for erythromycin resistance screening of B. pertussis isolates. Erythromycin is the antimicrobial agent of choice for treatment and postexposure prophylaxis of Bordetella pertussis infection, probably due to a higher achievable level in serum than other possible agents and the ability to penetrate the respiratory tract (2‐4). The MIC of erythromycin against B. pertussis isolates usually ranges from 0.02 to 0.12 mg/ml. Resistance had not previously been reported until a B. pertussis isolate resistant to erythromycin was found in Yuma County, Ariz. (5). The resistance mechanism is not known at this time; however, it does not involve rRNA methylation. Studies are ongoing at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to elucidate this mechanism and establish criteria for susceptibility testing. Currently, a standardized procedure and guidelines for in vitro testing are not reported in the literature. The difficulties of in vitro testing of B. pertussis isolates include
The solid-state decomposition and oxidation of dicobaltoctacarbonyl in a polymer matrix

The decomposition of Co2(CO)8 in hydrocarbon solutions, to Co4(CO)12 and further to metallic Co and carbon monoxide under an inert atmosphere, has been extensively studied and is well documented in the literature. We report here a study of the solid-state decomposition of Co2(CO)8 in a polymeric matrix under various conditions. Co2(CO)8 was incorporated into polystyrene by film casting from CH2Cl2 solutions under CO at room temperature. These films were decomposed at 90°C under N2. The decomposition rate of the Co2(CO)8 in polystyrene films was two orders of magnitude slower than for hydrocarbon solution decompositions. Conversely, the oxidation of Co2(CO)8 to CoO or Co2O3 in air at room temperature was observed to be two orders of magnitude faster in the polystyrene matrix as compared with solutions. When protective layers of polystyrene were cast on both sides of the Co2(CO)8-polystyrene films, oxidation became slower as a function of the thickness of the protective polymer layers. These observations, supported by infrared spectra, TEM micrographs, and electron diffraction patterns, are discussed to compare the solution and solid-state chemistry of Co2(CO)8.
KPP: KEGG Pathway Painter

High-throughput technologies became common tools to decipher genome-wide changes of gene expression (GE) patterns. Functional analysis of GE patterns is a daunting task as it requires often recourse to the public repositories of biological knowledge. On the other hand, in many cases researcher's inquiry can be served by a comprehensive glimpse. The KEGG PATHWAY database is a compilation of manually verified maps of biological interactions represented by the complete set of pathways related to signal transduction and other cellular processes. Rapid mapping of the differentially expressed genes to the KEGG pathways may provide an idea about the functional relevance of the gene lists corresponding to the high-throughput expression data. Here we present a web based graphic tool KEGG Pathway Painter (KPP). KPP paints pathways from the KEGG database using large sets of the candidate genes accompanied by "overexpressed" or "underexpressed" marks, for example, those generated by microarrays or miRNA profilings. KPP provides fast and comprehensive visualization of the global GE changes by consolidating a list of the color-coded candidate genes into the KEGG pathways. KPP is freely available and can be accessed at http://web.cos.gmu.edu/~gmanyam/kegg /
Development of the olfactory nerve in the African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis. I, Normal development

Quantitative and morphological data were obtained on developing olfactory axons in the African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis, during late premetamorphosis (stages 48-54), prometamorphosis (stages 55-57), and halfway through metamorphic climax (stages 58-62). Larval axons throughout these stages of development did not change with respect to morphology or diameter and were similar in all respects to olfactory axons described in other vertebrate species. The number of axons in the olfactory nerve increased throughout development, more rapidly after stage 54. Based on comparisons of the number of axons in proximal and distal regions of the nerve, there also appeared to be more axons growing into the olfactory nerve at early metamorphic climax than during premetamorphosis. Through the onset of metamorphic climax, the number of olfactory axons was correlated with other measures of body growth. In the later stages of climax, however, the number of olfactory axons continued to rise, whereas body weight, length, and width, as well as olfactory nerve length, decreased. Not all animals developed at the same rate, but for all quantitative measurements in this study, stage was a better predictor of any given parameter than age of the animal. Rearing conditions affected the rate of development but did not have a significant effect on most of the features analyzed quantitatively. Although most of the new olfactory axons in these larval animals probably represent addition of fibers resulting from development, the ensheathing glial cells at all stages showed evidence of phagocytic activity, suggesting that there might be turnover of olfactory receptor cells during larval development. The results presented here provide a baseline for future reports on various factors that may influence normal development in this system.
On the memory required to compute functions of streaming data

We consider the problem of computing functions of data streams while employing limited memory in a standard information-theoretic framework. A streaming system with memory constraint has to observe a collection of sources X 1 ,X 2 ,…,X m sequentially, store synopses of the sources in memory, and compute a function of the sources based on the synopses. We establish a correspondence between this problem and a functional source coding problem in cascade/line networks. For the general functional source coding problem in cascade networks, we derive inner and outer bounds, and for distributions satisfying certain properties, we characterize the achievable rate-region exactly for the computation of any function. As a result of the correspondence we established, this result also characterizes the minimum amount of memory required to compute the function in a streaming system. We briefly discuss the implications of this result for the problem of distinct value computation.
Throughput and Delay Analysis in Single Hop and Multihop IEEE 802.11 Networks

In this paper, we present a simple analytical model to provide estimates for throughput and end-to-end packet delay in single hop and multihop IEEE 802.11 networks. In contrast to most works in the literature that focus on analyzing MAC-layer throughput and head of line delay for single hop networks operating under saturation conditions, our model focuses on delivering accurate estimates for MAC-layer throughput and end-to-end delay for both single hop and multihop networks under all loading conditions. To calculate the throughput, we use a regenerative approach based on a CSMA approximation and to calculate the end-to-end delay, we use both a regenerative approach to calculate the packet service time (the Head-of-Line delay) and an M/G/1 approximation to calculate the packet waiting time in the queue. When it comes to multihop networks, we calculate both the spatial re-use factor and the average path length of the network. This allows us to model the multihop network as a congregation of smaller, single hop networks, which we use in turn, to introduce an effective new method for the calculation of the overall network throughput and packet end-to-end delay.
Bird Maneuvering Flight: Blurred Bodies, Clear Heads

While useful in describing the efficiency of maneuvering flight, steady-state (i.e., fixed wing) models of maneuvering performance cannot provide insight to the efficacy of maneuvering, particularly during low-speed flapping flight. Contrasted with airplane-analogous gliding/high speed maneuvering, the aerodynamic and biomechanical mechanisms employed by birds at low flight speeds are violent, with rapidly alternating forces routinely being developed. The saltatory nature of this type of flight results in extreme linear and angular displacements of the bird's body; however, birds isolate their heads from these accelerations with cervical reflexes. Experiments with pigeons suggest this ability to isolate the visual and vestibular systems is critical to controlled flapping flight: birds wearing collars that prohibited the neck from isolating the head from the angular accelerations of induced rolls frequently exhibited (50% of flights) a loss of vestibular and/or visual horizon and were unable to maintain controlled flight.
Intelligent based hierarchical control power electronics for distributed generation systems

There is an increasing adoption of distributed energy (DE) systems in industry where many issues related to, economics, electrical system optimization and long-term viability have been focused for understanding the integration of these systems with the electric power systems. It is well recognized how advanced power electronic (PE) interfaces allow furthering functionality through improved power quality and voltage/VAR support, increase electrical system compatibility by reducing DE fault contributions, and flexibility in operations with various other DE sources, while reducing overall interconnection costs. A distributed intelligent energy management system (DIEMS) is implemented to optimize operating costs. As the optimization greatly depends on the power generation and the power output from renewable sources strongly depends on the weather, the forecast of power generation is required for DIEMS. A neural network structure is used to predict hourly day-type outputs based on which generation can be forecasted. Depending on the forecast, an optimization scheme can be developed utilizing linear programming along with heuristics.
Prevalence of Ovine and Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections in Cattle Determined with a Synthetic Peptide-Based Immunoassay

Subgroup-specific peptide-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays from the G-protein of the ovine and bovine respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), respectively, were used to determine the prevalence of the ovine and bovine subgroup strains of RSV infections in cattle. A total of 1,102 bovine serum samples were obtained from 6 diagnostic laboratories located in the northwestern and the southeastern USA and were tested for antibody to either the bovine or ovine subgroups of RSV. Antibody to viruses from each subgroup was present in samples from each region and all states tested. The Southeast had a higher prevalence of the bovine subgroup strains (69.5%). Then did the Northwest (40.9%). The prevalence of the ovine strain was similar for the two regions (16.7% in the southeast, 14.9% in the northwest). The overall prevalence was 56.6% for the bovine strain and 15.9% for the ovine strain. These results suggest members of the ovine subgroup of RSV circulate in the cattle population but with less frequency than those viruses of the bovine subgroup.