cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Microhomology-Mediated Break-Induced Replication Model for the Origin of Human Copy Number Variation

Chromosome structural changes with nonrecurrent endpoints associated with genomic disorders offer windows into the mechanism of origin of copy number variation (CNV). A recent report of nonrecurrent duplications associated with Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease identified three distinctive characteristics. First, the majority of events can be seen to be complex, showing discontinuous duplications mixed with deletions, inverted duplications, and triplications. Second, junctions at endpoints show microhomology of 2–5 base pairs (bp). Third, endpoints occur near pre-existing low copy repeats (LCRs). Using these observations and evidence from DNA repair in other organisms, we derive a model of microhomology-mediated break-induced replication (MMBIR) for the origin of CNV and, ultimately, of LCRs. We propose that breakage of replication forks in stressed cells that are deficient in homologous recombination induces an aberrant repair process with features of break-induced replication (BIR). Under these circumstances, single-strand 3′ tails from broken replication forks will anneal with microhomology on any single-stranded DNA nearby, priming low-processivity polymerization with multiple template switches generating complex rearrangements, and eventual re-establishment of processive replication.
Metamodeling of Mechatronic Systems in the MIXEDMODELS Platform

The parametric design of mechatronic systems requires several detailed analyses of the system, thereby slowing down the design process significantly. In the recent past, there has been a lot of interest in using lower fidelity, but higher efficiency metamodels (also called surrogate models) instead of the actual detailed models to guide parametric design, particularly in the early stages of parametric design. One common approach to forming metamodels is to run the detailed model to obtain the system response at selected points in design space and fit a response surface to the results which becomes the metamodel. Since this method uses only zero order information at each design point, a large number of points are required to form a reasonably accurate metamodel. For example, in a single design variable problem, a two-point response surface can only be linear, whereas we can generate a cubic response surface if we also had derivative information at the two points. In this paper, we present a metamodeling approach for mechatronic systems that computes and utilizes first order derivative information at each point in the design space at which a detailed analysis is performed. The first order derivative information that is computed is the set of design sensitivity coefficients of the system state variables and performance functions. A unified modeling approach for the mechanical, electrical, and electronic aspects of the system is first developed. This approach generates a single set of governing equations for the entire system in the form of a system of differential-algebraic equations (DAE’s). Based on these DAE’s, a set of equations in the state design sensitivity coefficients is analytically derived using a direct differentiation approach. This set of equations also turns out to be a set of DAE’s which can be solved simultaneously in parallel with the system governing equations. We have successfully implemented this methodology for design sensitivity analysis of multidisciplinary systems in a computational platform called MIXEDMODELS (Multidisciplinary Integrated eXtensible Engine for Driving Metamodeling, Optimization, and DEsign of Large-scale Systems). Once we know the state design sensitivity coefficients, we can compute the design sensitivity coefficients of any system performance function. After we have obtained the necessary design sensitivity information, we can devise several schemes for generating a metamodel for the system based on the sensitivity information. Some examples of metamodels obtained using this approach are presented for selected mechatronic systems, along with the relevant accuracy measures.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Inferring the Nature of Allometry from Geometric Data

The form of an organism is the combination of its size and its shape. For a sample of forms, biologists wish to characterize both mean form and the variation in form. For geometric data, where form is characterized as the spatial locations of homologous points, the first step in analysis superimposes the forms, which requires an assumption about what measure of size is appropriate. Geometric morphometrics adopts centroid size as the natural measure of size, and assumes that variation around the mean form is isometric with size. These assumptions limit the interpretation of the resulting estimates of mean and variance in form. We illustrate these problems using allometric variation in shape. We show that superimposition based on subsets of relatively isometric points can yield superior inferences about the overall pattern of variation. We propose and demonstrate two superimposition techniques based on this idea. In subset superimposition, landmarks are progressively discarded from the data used for superimposition if they result in significant decreases in the variation among the remaining landmarks. In outline superimposition, regularly distributed pseudolandmarks on the continuous outline of a form are used as the basis for superimposition of the landmarks contained within it. Simulations show that these techniques can result in dramatic improvements in the accuracy of estimated variance-covariance matrices among landmarks when our assumptions are roughly satisfied. The pattern of variation inferred by means of our superimposition techniques can be quite different from that recovered from full generalized Procrustes superimposition. The pattern of shape variation in the wings of drosophilid flies appears to meet these assumptions. Adoption of superimposition procedures that incorporate biological assumptions about the nature of size and of the variation in shape can dramatically improve the ability to infer the pattern of variation in geometric morphometric data.
Evidence for a pH-dependent isomerization of Clostridium oroticum dihydroorotase.

Abstract Analytical gel permeation chromatography on both Sephadex and polyacrylamide columns shows that Clostridium oroticum dihydroorotase ( l -5,6-dihydroorotate amidohydrolase, EC 3.5.2.3) undergoes a large decrease in molecular size when the pH is decreased from 8 to 6. The Stockes radius decreases from about 40 A to 36 A. Neither the molecular size nor kinetic properties are dependent on protein concentration. Thus, the decreased molecular size reflects a pH dependent isomerization of the enzyme.
Genomic instability within tumor stroma and clinicopathological characteristics of sporadic primary invasive breast carcinoma.

ContextThat genomic alterations occur in both the epithelium and stroma of sporadic breast cancers has been documented by several groups. However, whether these microenvironmental alterations relate to clinicopathological features is unknown.ObjectiveTo analyze the relationship between stromal genomic alterations and presenting clinicopathological features in sporadic breast cancer.Design, Setting, and ParticipantsA retrospective cross-sectional analysis of DNA from the epithelium and stroma of 220 primary sporadic invasive breast carcinomas for global genomic alterations manifested by loss of heterozygosity/allelic imbalance with 386 microsatellite markers. Data were collected from October 2003 through June 2006 from samples at Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass.Main Outcome MeasuresAssociation of the loss of heterozygosity/allelic imbalance, in both the stroma and epithelium, with presenting clinicopathological features, such as tumor grade, expression status of estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, clinical stage, and regional lymph node metastasis status. Associations were assessed in regression models and tested with Fisher exact test. Bonferroni correction was applied to P values, with significance set at P<.0022.ResultsWe found significant associations between loss of heterozygosity/allelic imbalance on chromosome 11 in the stroma and tumor grade (P = .0013), on chromosomes 1, 2, 5, 18, 20, and 22 in the stroma and regional lymph node metastasis (P = .0002-.0016), and on chromosome 14 in the epithelium and progesterone-receptor expression status (P = .002). Specific markers contributing to the loss of heterozygosity/allelic imbalance on chromosome 11 in the stroma associated with tumor grade were D11S1999 (P = .00055) and D11S1986 (P = .042). The loss of heterozygosity/allelic imbalance at various markers in the stroma was significantly associated with regional lymph node metastasis: ATA42G12 (chromosome 1, P = .00095), D5S1457 (P = .00095), D5S1501 (P = .0011), D5S816 (P = .0008), D18S858 (P = .0026), D20S103 (P = .0027), D20S851 (P = .0045), D22S683 (P = .00033), and D22S1045 (P = .0013).ConclusionsThere were more correlations between clinicopathological features and the loss of heterozygosity/allelic imbalance in the stroma than in the epithelium, suggesting that stromal genomic alterations may help account for clinical diversity. Future research is necessary to validate these results and investigate their significance for prognosis and outcome.
The dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor NVP-BEZ235 enhances nab-paclitaxel antitumor response in experimental gastric cancer

Gastric cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Taxanes have shown therapeutic effects against gastric cancer while also activating the PI3K/mTOR signaling pathway. We investigated the effects of NVP-BEZ235 (BEZ235), a novel dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor, alone and in combination with nanoparticle albumin-bound (nab)-paclitaxel in experimental gastric cancer. Cell proliferation and protein expression were measured by WST-1 assay and immunoblotting. Tumor growth and survival studies were performed in murine xenografts. Phosphorylated mTOR and 4E-BP1 levels were elevated in gastric cancer cells and tumor tissues by nab-paclitaxel. BEZ235 effectively inhibited cell proliferation in vitro and provided additive effects in combination with nab-paclitaxel. Furthermore, BEZ235 blocked the activated PI3K/mTOR pathway either alone or in combination with nab-paclitaxel in gastric cancer cells. BEZ235 and nab-paclitaxel caused an increase in PARP-1 and caspase-3 cleavage. Net local tumor growth inhibition for the BEZ235, nab-paclitaxel and BEZ235+nab-paclitaxel groups was 45.1, 77.9 and 97% compared to controls. The effects of therapy on intratumoral proliferation and apoptosis corresponded with tumor growth inhibition data. BEZ235 also caused a decrease in phospho-mTOR and phospho-Akt in tumor tissue lysates. Median animal survival (controls, 23 days) was 26.5 days after BEZ235 (p=0.227), 90.5 days after nab-paclitaxel (p=0.001) and 97 days in the BEZ235+nab-paclitaxel combination treatment group (p=0.001). Our findings suggest that BEZ235 exerts some antitumor effects against gastric cancer and enhances effects of nab-paclitaxel through inhibition of cell proliferation and modulation of the PI3K/mTOR pathway. This approach may represent a promising combination targeted therapy for gastric cancer.
L-selectin expression affects T-cell circulation following isoproterenol infusion in humans.

beta-Adrenergic receptor agonists have been shown to affect leukocyte migration. This study examined the expression of cellular adhesion molecules on lymphocyte, monocyte, and granulocyte distribution following an infusion of isoproterenol (20 and 40 ng/kg/min for 15 min each) in 12 healthy subjects. Leukocyte populations and adhesion molecule expression were determined via flow cytometry. Isoproterenol led to an expected lymphocytosis and leukocytosis. L-selectin expression varied across leukocytes and influenced cell trafficking in response to isoproterenol. Approximately 60% of CD8+ T-cells expressed L-selectin (CD8+CD62L+) and these cells showed no appreciable response to isoproterenol. In contrast, CD8+CD62L- cells showed a robust increase in number and distribution of approximately 100% over baseline (p's 95% of all leukocytes and these data were thus similar to the overall leukocytosis data. CD54 (ICAM-1) was expressed on approximately 60% of mixed lymphocytes and was unchanged in response to isoproterenol. The findings indicate that L-selectin expression influences T-cell trafficking in response to beta-adrenergic stimulation and help further illuminate catecholamine-mediated sympathetic and immune interactions.
Pituitary tumor enlargement in two patients with acromegaly during pegvisomant therapy

Background Several classes of pharmacological agents are approved for the medical therapy of acromegaly, including dopamine agonists, somatostatin analogs and a growth hormone receptor antagonist. Pegvisomant, a growth hormone receptor antagonist, suppresses IGF-1 levels into the normal range in over ninety percent of patients. However, increased tumor volume was reported in patients receiving pegvisomant who had not received prior radiotherapy.
Questioning the Question -- Addressing the Answerability of Questions in Community Question-Answering

In this paper, we investigate question quality among questions posted in Yahoo! Answers to assess what factors contribute to the goodness of a question and determine if we can flag poor quality questions. Using human assessments of whether a question is good or bad and extracted textual features from the questions, we built an SVM classifier that performed with relatively good classification accuracy for both good and bad questions. We then enhanced the performance of this classifier by using additional human assessments of question type as well as additional question features to first separate questions by type and then classify them. This two-step classifier improved the performance of the original classifier in identifying Type II errors and suggests that our model presents a novel approach for identifying bad questions with implications for query revision and routing.
Current controversies in perinatal care: fetal versus neonatal surgery

Fetal surgery has become a viable option for many parents whose unborn infants have congenital anomalies. However, this approach is best suited to specific circumstances and specific babies. Careful prenatal care and early diagnosis ensure that this option is available to those who can benefit from the intervention.
The role of stretch-based relaxation in the treatment of chronic neck tension

This study examined the efficacy of stretch-based relaxation as compared to tenserelease progressive relaxation procedures for the reduction of muscle tension in persons reporting chronic neck pain. Stretch-based relaxation offers an alternative to the tenserelease methods when such approaches are contraindicated or not well-suited to patient needs. In the present study, 60 subjects reporting frequent and significant muscle tension or pain in the neck and shoulder areas were assigned randomly to one of three experimental groups: stretch-based relaxation (SR), tense-release relaxation (TR), or resting control (RC). After baseline psychological and physiological evaluation, subjects were exposed to a mental stressor. Following the stressor, subjects either performed one of the relaxation procedures or rested quietly. At the end of the relaxation or rest period, psychological and physiological data were again gathered. Results showed that persons in the SR condition reported significantly greater muscle tension reductions and demonstrate lower left (L) trapezius EMG activity than persons in the TR or RC conditions. Peripheral skin temperature increased following the procedures in the SR condition; in the TR and RC conditions, skin temperature declined. These results are discussed in terms of the potential roles that stretch-based techniques may play in fostering relaxation.
A Theoretical Approach to Dropwise Condensation Using Population Balance Concept

A model using the population balance concept is used to derive a theoretical formula to predict the drop-size distribution of small drops which grow mainly by direct condensation. All the important resistances to heat transfer such as the heat conduction through the drop, vapor-liquid interface are considered in developing this model. By knowing the contact angle of the drop made with the condensing surface and the maximum drop radius the sweeping effect of large falling drops could be calculated which is also incorporated into the model. This is combined with the well known size distribution for large drops proposed by Le Fevre and Rose (1966) which grow mainly by coalescence and with the growth rate of single drops to compute the heat flux during the process of dropwise condensation. The data obtained from this theoretical model is compared to that of the data obtained from our experimentation. There has been a satisfactory agreement between our experimental data and the present theoretical model.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Laser Excitation Matrix-Isolation Spectroscopy

Abstract Perhaps the most significant recent development in the field of matrix isolation spectroscopy has proven to be the laser-Raman matrix technique. Infrared absorption and Raman scattering spectroscopic methods provide complementary information on vibrational data for the large body of interesting molecular species which require matrix synthesis and stabilization. The laser-excitation technique offers several advantages over the IR experiment: (1) the possibility of obtaining new chemical species by laser photolysis, (2) the observation of resonance Raman spectra which provide harmonic and anharmonic vibrational constants from overtone bands, and (3) the possible observation of fluorescence from new chemical species. Specific experimental examples of complementary IR and Raman studies, laser photolysis, resonance-Raman, and flouorescence spectra are discussed.
Expansion about an Arbitrary Point of Three‐Dimensional Functions Involving Spherical Harmonics by the Fourier‐Transform Convolution Theorem

Expansion of ψ(r)=ψ(r)YLM(θ,φ) in terms of spherical harmonics and radial functions, whose coordinates are measured from an arbitrary point in space, is obtained by use of the Fourier‐transform convolution theorem. For a specific ψ(r), two integrals most be evaluated to determine the expansion explicitly: (1) the radial part ψ(k) of the Fourier transform of ψ(r); and (2) an integral of ψ(k) with spherical Bessel functions. The examples of noninteger‐n and integer‐n Slater‐type orbitals are worked out by contour integration.
The Surveillant Gaze: Michael Haneke's The White Ribbon

Michael Haneke's 2009 The White Ribbon is set in the village of “Eichwald.” Eichwald cannot be found on any German map. It is an imaginary place in the Protestant North of Eastern Germany in the early twentieth century. What is more, Haneke tells his black-and-white tale as the flashback narration of a voice-over narrator—a series of defamiliarizing techniques that lift the diegetic action out of its immediate sociohistorical context, stripping it of its temporal and topographical coordinates. Against this backdrop, is it possible to hear the name “Eichwald” without being reminded of, on the one hand, Adolf Eichmann, Nazi SS-Obersturmbannfuhrer and one of the key architects of the Holocaust, and, on the other, the Nazi concentration camp Buchenwald? To be sure, Eichwald is not Buchenwald, and no 56,000 humans are being murdered here. Yet why this peculiar terminological fusion? What characterizes Eichwald, this model of a society in which adults have no names but merely function as representatives of a pa...
Hesperidin suppressed proliferations of both Human breast cancer and androgen-dependent prostate cancer cells

Hesperidin, a flavonoid derived from citrus fruits, has been reported to show various biological effects including anticancer activity. This study investigated whether hesperidin affected the proliferation of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells transfected with green fluorescent protein (GFP)/alpha-tubulin (MCF-7-GFP-Tubulin cells), androgen-independent PC-3 and DU-145 prostate cancer cells, and androgen-dependent LNCaP prostate cancer cells. The results were as follows. (1) Hesperidin inhibited the proliferation of MCF-7-GFP-Tubulin cells, probably not through an antimitotic mechanism. (2) Hesperidin also inhibited both basal and testosterone-induced proliferation of LNCaP cells. (3) However, hesperidin did not significantly affect the cell proliferation of two hormone-independent prostate cancer cells, PC-3 and DU-145. It is concluded that hesperidin can inhibit the proliferation of breast cancer cells through mechanisms other than antimitosis and it is suggested that hesperidin be further investigated for the possible interaction with androgenic receptors and involvement in signaling pathway after receptor binding in prostate cancer cells through future research.
Apples, oranges, and lemons: making sense of lung volume reduction surgery.

The study reported by Decker and colleagues in this issue of the Journal was undertaken to describe contemporary practice patterns and outcomes of lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) on a national level, using data obtained from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) database. The resulting analysis is compared with published results of the National Emphysema Treatment Trial (NETT). The authors, as have many others, question why application of a procedure demonstrated by the NETT to be so effective for selected patients with emphysema has languished, despite the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The STS database was found to contain 538 patients who underwent LVRS over the 8.5-year span covered by the study. However this database is voluntary, so it may or may not be representative of the majority of cases performed in the United States. It contains aggregate deidentified data that does not permit retrospective data mining or subgroup analysis to be conducted. Postoperative data, including morbidity and mortality, is limited to 30 days and does not include either subjective or objective measures of improvement. In comparison with the NETT trial, which included only patients undergoing bilateral LVRS, the STS database cannot distinguish between unilateral and bilateral procedures that have previously been documented to result in differing postoperative mortality and functional outcome. In addition, the limited data designed to be captured by the STS database are often incomplete. For example, 30-day mortality was missing for 14% of patients so, as the authors indicate, the post-LVRS 30-day mortality of 5.6% might actually range from 4.8% up to 19.6% depending on how many of the patients with unknown status were actually alive at 30 days. Furthermore the NETT trial demonstrated that postoperative mortality
Design of waveguide-fed series slot arrays

A design procedure is presented whereby the length and tilt of every slot in a series array can be determined, in the presence of external mutual coupling, in order to provide a specifield pattern and input impedance. The slots are cut in a broadwall of rectangular waveguides, centered but inclined, and resonantly spaced to form linear or planar arrays. The design procedure parallels earlier treatment ot tne longitudinal shunt slot case, and combines Stevenson's method with a modified form of Booker's relation to treat non-resonant series slots. Two coupled design equations result, one linking slot voltage and mode current, the other linking active slot impedance to the active impedance in an equivalent dipole array. Simultaneous solution of these design equations is illustrated for the cases of a two by four array, a three by five array, and a five by five array. Experimental results for the two by four array are presented, and validate the theory satisfactorily.
Taxonomy of the early life stages of arrowtooth flounder (Atheresthes stomias) and Kamchatka flounder (A. evermanni) in the eastern Bering Sea, with notes on distribution and condition

Abstract Arrowtooth flounder (Atheresthes stomias) and Kamchatka flounder (A. evermanni) are closely related flatfish species that co-occur in the eastern Bering Sea. As adults, arrowtooth flounder can be distinguished from Kamchatka flounder; however, larvae and early juveniles can only be indentified to the genus level due to morphological similarities. This has precluded studies of ecology for the early life stages of both species in the eastern Bering Sea. In this study, we developed a genetic technique to identify the larvae and early juveniles of the two species using mtDNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI). Genetically identified specimens were then examined to determine a visual identification method based on pigment patterns and morphology. Specimens 6.0–12.0 mm SL and≥18.0 mm SL can be identified to the species level, but species identification of individuals 12.1–17.9 mm SL by visual means alone remains elusive. The distribution of larvae (
The Coherence of Empiricism

Rationalists often argue that empiricism is incoherent and conclude, on that basis, that some knowledge is a priori. I contend that such arguments against empiricism cannot be parlayed into an argument in support of the a priori since rationalism is open to the same arguments. I go on to offer an alternative strategy. The leading idea is that, instead of offering a priori arguments against empiricism, rationalists should marshal empirical support for their position.
Envelope model of beam radius variations in steady state beam-circuit interaction codes

The beam envelope equation [1] provides a simple model of the steady state dependence of the radius of an electron beam on axial location. Since the forces acting on a beam in any linear beam VE device depend on the beam radius, it is useful to have a model of the axial variation of the beam size in a beam-circuit interaction code. We describe an implementation of the envelope model in the CHRISTINE-CC large signal code for coupled-cavity TWTs [2], which ordinarily uses disks of fixed radius to represent the beam. Using this “add-in” envelope model, we illustrate some effects of beam expansion and contraction in a coupled-cavity TWT.
The Application of a Digital Model for Evaluating the Bedrock Water Resources of the Maumee River Basin, Northwestern Ohioa

Increasing population and industrial development in northwestern Ohio indicated the need for an evaluation of the bedrock ground-water resources of the region. A digital ground-water model was designed and used as a tool for predicting water-level declines resulting from projected ground-water withdrawal. Potentiometric surfaces, keyed to historic, accelerated, and peak projected ground-water withdrawals, were predicted by decades to the year 2036. These withdrawals at the calculated rates will cause severe overdrafts at Lima, Toledo, and Findlay, Ohio, and at Ft. Wayne, Indiana, by the year 2036.
Instructional use of computers in the junior college

The administration and faculty of two-year colleges must recognize the important contribution that the computer can make now—and in the future—to the education of our students.
Variability of impact kinematics and margin for error in the tennis forehand of advanced players

The kinematics of the racket and ball near impact in tennis forehands were studied to document typical variation in successful and unsuccessful shots, in order to determine biomechanically meaningful differences in advanced players and confirm models of groundstroke trajectories. Seven tennis players (six males and one female) were videoed from the side at 180 Hz as they performed 40 forehand drives on an indoor tennis court. Vertical plane kinematics of the racket and ball near impact were analysed for sub samples of successful and unsuccessful shots for each subject. Most racket kinematic variables were very consistent (mean CV< 6.3%) for successful shots, so bio mechanically meaningful differences in angles and velocities of the racket and ball (3° and 2 m s−1) near impact could be detected between successful and unsuccessful shots. Four subjects tended to miss long and three subjects missed shots in the net that were reflected in initial ball trajectories. Mean (SD) initial trajectories for long shots were 9.8° (1.4°), while netted shots were 0.7° (1.1°) above the horizontal. The initial ball trajectories and margins for error for these subjects were smaller than those previously reported (Brody, 1987) because players tended to select mean ball trajectories close to one error than another, differing amounts of topspin, or incorrect lift and drag coefficients for tennis balls had not been published when this model was created. The present data can be used to confirm if recent models (Cookeet al., 2003; Dignallet al., 2004) more closely match actual performance by advanced players.
P and B doped Si resonant interband tunnel diodes with as-grown negative differential resistance

Robust Si resonant interband tunnel diodes have been designed and tested that demonstrate as-grown negative differential resistance at room temperature with peak-to-valley current ratios (PVCR) up to 2.5 and peak current densities in the order of 1 kA/cm 2 . The as-grown Si p + in + structures were synthesised using solid source molecular beam epitaxy, incorporating B and P delta-doped layers. Both structures have shown thermal stability after 1 min post-growth anneals up through 675degC and the PVCR improves to 2.8 for a 575degC 1 min anneal.
Defining ‘Distributed Representation’

Abstract Distributed representation is at the heart of many practical and philosophical concerns inconnectionism, yet it has never been defined in a way that is both precise and comprehensive. This article defines distribution in terms of semantic superposition-many items represented by one representation as formalized within the mathematical framework of distributing transformations. A representation is distributed, roughly, when it can be described by means of a function which is a distributed transform of a function describing the items it is representing. Numerous paradigm examples ofdistributed representationfrom connectionism and elsewhere are shown to be subsumable, formally or informally, under this framework, which supports the idea that semantic superposition and distributing transformations are in fact the essence of distribution. Various advantages and implications of this ew definition are discussed briefly; these include a proof of the falsity of the classical onception of human cognitive ar...
Ultrasensitive Detection of Cs Vapor by Intracavity Laser Quenching

Intracavity laser quenching has been used to detect 9 × 107 atoms of Cs vapor. An enhancement factor of about 2000 over the sensitivity for single-pass detection is observed. Known techniques should make it possible to increase the sensitivity level to near 106 atoms.
Adherence to Prescribed HIV-1 Protease Inhibitors in the Home Setting

The issue of adherence to any therapy prescribed by a health care provider is multidimensional and includes personal challenges that exist in the daily life of any client, as well as the individual practices and attitudes of the health care provider. In addition, since most health is delivered in congregate settings such as the hospital, clinic, or office, it is important to consider those factors that may be present in a client's home that can impede compliant behavior. This article reviews challenges to compliance that should be considered when developing a care plan for clients, focusing on variables that may be present in the home setting.
Conjugate heat transfer measurements with single-phase and water flow boiling in a single-side heated monoblock flow channel

Abstract Optimized and robust designs of one-side heated plasma-facing components and other heat flux removal components are dependent on conjugate heat transfer. In the present case, the conjugate heat transfer involved measuring the local distributions of the inside wall temperature and heat flux in a single-side heated monoblock flow channel with: (1) peripheral (radial and circumferential) heat transfer; and, (2) coupled internal turbulent, forced convective single-phase flow and flow boiling. For the first time, multi-dimensional boiling curves have been measured for a single-side heated monoblock flow channel. Using a thermal hydraulic diameter as the characteristic dimension in select correlations for the highest mass velocity (3.2 Mg/m2 s), good agreement was obtained. At lower mass velocities, only the single-phase correlations agreed better with the data for the averaged net incident heat flux vs the inside channel wall temperature. Hence, additional correlation development and adaptation are needed for single-side heated monoblocks with peripheral heat transfer.
MUVIS: Multi-source video streaming service over WLANs

Video streaming over wireless networks is challenging due to node mobility and high channel error rate. In this paper, we propose a multi-source video streaming (MUVIS) system to support high quality video streaming service over IEEE 802.11-based wireless networks. We begin by collocating a streaming proxy with the wireless access point to help leverage both the media server and peers in the WLAN. By tracking the peer mobility patterns and performing content discovery among peers, we construct a multi-source sender group and stream video using a rate-distortion optimized scheme. We formulate such a multi-source streaming scenario as a combinatorial packet scheduling problem and introduce the concept of asynchronous clocks to decouple the problem into three steps. First, we decide the membership of the multi-source sender group based on the mobility pattern tracking, available video content in each peer and the bandwidth each peer allocates to the multi-source streaming service. Then, we select one sender from the sender group in each optimization instance using asynchronous clocks. Finally, we apply the point-to-point rate-distortion optimization framework between the selected sender-receiver pair. In addition, we implement two different caching strategies, simple caching simple fetching (SCSF) and distortion minimized smart caching (DMSC), in the proxy to investigate the effect of caching on the streaming performance. To design more realistic simulation models, we use the empirical results from corporate wireless networks to generate node mobility. Simulation results show that our proposed multi-source streaming scheme has better performance than the traditional server-only streaming scheme and that proxy-based caching can potentially improve video streaming performance.
Progesterone regulates gamma-aminobutyric acid B (GABAB) receptors in the neocortex of female rats

After discovering that binding to GABAB receptors in rat neocortex varied as a function of the estrous cycle of the rat, we asked whether either or both of the major ovarian steroids could affect binding to GABAB receptors in the same way, namely, by regulating the apparent density (Bmax) of GABAB receptors. We report here that in ovariectomized rats, subcutaneous injection of progesterone alone, without the necessity of estrogen priming, increased the Bmax of baclofen binding to GABAB receptors in the neocortex. Radioimmunoassay of plasma progesterone before and after progesterone injections revealed that plasma progesterone levels similar to those reached during the progesterone surge in proestrus were associated with increased baclofen binding. The effect of progesterone upon baclofen binding was evident 4 h but not 1 h following progesterone treatment. There was some specificity with respect to the cortical receptors affected by progesterone in that under our conditions, progesterone did not increase agonist binding to 5-HT1A or GABAA receptors. We interpret our results to indicate that progesterone variation during the estrous cycle could be responsible for a component of the regulation of GABAB receptors that occurs in neocortex during the estrous cycle of the rat.
FIRE IN AMAZONIAN SELECTIVELY LOGGED RAIN FOREST AND THE POTENTIAL FOR FIRE REDUCTION

Approximately 8000 km2 of Brazilian Amazon forest are selectively logged each year. Although virgin forest in eastern Amazonia is generally immune to fire, selectively logged forests are susceptible to fire. In eastern Amazonia we employed permanent-plot studies, forest fuel moisture measurements, and hemispheric canopy photographs to study the impacts of fire on a selectively logged forest, the microclimatic conditions that foster forest fires, and the measures that loggers might take to reduce fire incidence. Significant tree mortality followed a typical ground fire in a selectively logged forest. Forty-four percent of all trees ≥10 cm in diameter at breast height died in a burned plot while only 3% died in an unburned plot. In large logging gaps the density of regenerating pioneer species increased by >60% in burned plots 15 mo after the fire, while it decreased by >40% in unburned plots. The rate of fuel drying in selectively logged forest was influenced by photon flux density (PFD), time since loggin...
II. Young People’s Attitudes to Abortion for Abnormality

To find out more about how young people describe and discuss their opinions about abortion for abnormality I conducted a study which comprised a questionnaire survey of the attitudes to abortion law of 300 school and university students. This was designed to examine the strength of support for legal abortion and especially for abortion in cases of fetal abnormality. In addition 10 focus groups were conducted with students about their views on abortion for abnormality. The survey results confirmed the findings of previous research: most young people considered that abortion should be legal. Just over 45 percent said they agreed with the 1967 Act and another 30 percent said the Act is `too strict (they were informed of the provisions of the Act). It seems that young people have no desire to see the law make women continue a pregnancy against their will and this is especially the case where a fetal abnormality is detected: 76 percent agreed that abortion for abnormality should be allowed under the 1967 Act (the full results of this survey appear in Lee and Davey 1998). (excerpt)
A technique for the determination of weight and water content of minute tissue specimens

Abstract A technique is described whereby the weight and water content of minute samples of tissue can be determined accurately and conveniently with inexpensive equipment. A comparison of tissue water-content determination by this technique with (a) a conventional technique that uses much larger samples of muscle tissue and (b) with previously reported values for muscle, liver, and kidney tissue indicated very good agreement. With this technique it was possible to determine the weight and water content of the rat parathyroid glands.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PROJECTED MECHANICAL EQUILIBRIUM CONDITIONS OF SELECTED FOOD MATERIALS IN STRESS RELAXATION AND CREEP

Asymptotic modulus versus strain relationships in stress relaxation tests of potato flesh, cheddar cheese and 1.5% agar gels were compared to similar relationships derived from creep experiments. The asymptotic moduli (or compliance reciprocals) were on the same order of magnitude and their dependency on the strain of a similar character. These suggest that despite the history sensitive response of food materials, their mechanical equilibrium conditions are governed by the same structural features.
Microstructure and stress-corrosion cracking relationship in an AlLiCuZr alloy

Abstract The stress-corrosion cracking (SCC) behavior of an Al-2.9Cu-2.2Li-0.12Zr alloy was investigated in 3.5% NaCl solution. The alloy was tested in the peak-strength condition and in two overaged tempers. The SCC velocity as a function of the stress intensitiy factor KI was obtained by testing precracked double cantilever beam (DCB) specimens in alternate immersion. Slow-strain rate experiments were also conducted in air and total immersion by using smooth cylindrical specimens. The results from both testing methods show that the degree of susceptibility depends on the aging condition, the peak-aged temper being the most resistant. Overaging induces susceptibility owing to the development of strain at the grain boundaries. This strain is a result of phase interactions and transformations and is produced by the preferential T1 precipitation at grain boundaries, the cutting of δ′ by growing φ′ and the consequent transformation of φ′ to T1. Possible embrittlement mechanisms are discussed.
Improved Strategy for Comparing Microbial Assemblage Fingerprints

Microbial fingerprinting techniques permit the rapid visualization of entire assemblages in single assays, allowing direct comparison of communities in different samples, where the null hypothesis of such analyses is that all samples are the same. The comparison of fingerprints relies upon the precise estimation of all amplified DNA fragment lengths, which correspond to operational taxonomic units (OTU; analogous, but not equal to, a taxon in macroorganism studies). However, computer interpolation of size standards (and consequently OTU size calling) can be imprecise between gel runs, which can lead to imprecise calculation of similarity indices between multiple assemblages. To account for OTU size calling imprecision, all fragments within a range of sizes (a window) can be combined (i.e., "binned") where the window is as wide as the imprecision of OTU size calling. However, artifacts may occur upon binning samples that may cause samples to appear less similar to each other, caused by splitting of OTU between adjacent bin windows. In this work we present an improved binning technique that accounts for OTU size calling imprecision in the comparison of multiple fingerprints. This technique comprises binning all pairwise comparisons in multiple bin window frames, where the starting size of the window (i.e., frame) is shifted by +1 bp for a total of x frames, where x bp is the width of the maximum bin window size in any binning scheme. Pairwise similarity indices between different community fingerprints are calculated for each of the x frames. To best address the null hypothesis of the community comparison, the maximum similarity value of all x frames is then used in downstream analyses to compare the communities. We believe this binning technique provides the most accurate and least biased comparison between different microbial fingerprints.
Maximizing the Fundamental Natural Frequency of Triangular Composite Plates

While many advances were made in the analysis of composite structures, it is generally recognized that the design of composite structures must be studied further in order to take full advantage of the mechanical properties of these materials. This study is concerned with maximizing the fundamental natural frequency of triangular, symmetrically laminated composite plates. The natural frequencies and mode shapes of composite plates of general triangular planform are determined using the Rayleigh-Ritz method. The plate constitutive equations are written in terms of stiffness invariants and nondimensional lamination parameters. Point supports are introduced in the formulation using the method of Lagrange multipliers. This formulation allows studying the free vibration of a wide range of triangular composite plates with any support condition along the edges and point supports. The boundary conditions are enforced at a number of points along the boundary. The effects of geometry, material properties and lamination on the natural frequencies of the plate are investigated. With this stiffness invariant formulation, the effects of lamination are described by a finite number of parameters regardless of the number of plies in the laminate. We then determine the lay-up that will maximize the fundamental natural frequency of the plate. It is shown that the optimum design is relatively insensitive to the material properties for the commonly used material systems. Results are presented for several cases.
Alpha-Synuclein Conformation Affects Its Tyrosine Dependent Oxidative Aggregation

Oxidative stress and aggregation of the protein μ-synuclein are thought to be key factors in Parkinson's disease. Previous work shows that cytochrome c plus H2O2 causes tyrosine-dependant in vitro peroxidative aggregation of proteins, including μ-synuclein. Here, we examine the role of each of α-synuclein's four tyrosine residues and how the protein's conformation affects covalent oxidative aggregation. When μ-synuclein adopts a collapsed conformation, tyrosine 39 is essential for wild-type-like covalent aggregation. This lone N-terminal tyrosine, however, is not required for wild type-like covalent aggregation in the presence of a denaturant or when μ-synuclein is present in non-covalent fibrils. We also show that pre-formed oxidative aggregates are not incorporated into non-covalent fibrils. These data provide insight as to how dityrosine may be formed in Lewy bodies seen in Parkinson's disease.
Septal ablation and the social behavior of the golden hamster.

Abstract In four experiments, the effect of septal ablation on the social behavior of the hamster was observed. The results indicated that septal ablation increased the aggressiveness of both socially naive and experienced dominant hamsters. If, however, the septal hamster experienced defeat by an opponent during preoperative testing, no postoperative increment in aggression was observed. All septal hamsters, whether aggressive or not, either ceased to display hoarding behavior or hoarded very little. All septal hamsters also showed persistent approach responses to their opponents. Paired contests between septal animals resulted in high levels of aggression with one septal in each pair being defeated and assuming a submissive status.
Use of radon-222 and calcium as tracers in a three-end-member mixing model for streamflow generation on the West Fork of Walker Branch Watershed

Genereux, D.P., Hemond, H.F. and Mulholland, P,J., 1993. Use of radon-222 and calcium as tracers in a three-end-member mixing model for streamflow generation on the West Fork of Walker Branch Watershed. J. Hydrol., 142:167-211. Measurements of naturally occurring radon-222 (222 Rn) and calcium (Ca) in surface and subsurface waters on the West Fork ef Walker Branch suggest that a simple three-end-member mixing model provides a realistic and useful framework for streamflow generation over a wide range of flow conditions. The three end members are vadose zone water, soil groundwater, and bedrock groundwater. Bedrock groundwater was distinguished from the soil end members on the basis of its high Ca content; 222 Rn concentration was the basis for the distinction between vadose zone water (low 222 Rn) and soil groundwater (high 222 Rn). The behavior of the end members with changing flow was consistent with a wide variety of environmental observations, including temperature and flow variations at springs, water table responses, the general lack of saturated zones on hillslopes and even near the stream in some places, and the importance of water movemen t through bedrock. Variability in the chemistry of the end members precluded using other solutes (Na, K, and SO4) to test the mixing fractions derived from 222 Rn and Ca data; during those times of year when the soil temperature is most different from that of the underlying bedrock (late summer and late winter), temperature may be a useful tracer for distinguishing between water from the soil end members and that from bedrock. The mixing model provides a simple framework for analyzing the essential features of streamflow generation in this highly heterogeneous terrain.