cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The round complexity of secure protocols

Assume we have a network of three or more players, each player in possession of some private input. The players want to compute some function of these private inputs, but in a way which protects the privacy of each participant's contribution. Not all of the players can be trusted to do as they are instructed. The resources the players are given to accomplish their goal are communication--the ability to privately send messages to one another, or to broadcast messages to the community as a whole--and local computation. Many insightful protocols have been proposed for solving this problem of multiparty secure function evaluation. Building on Yao's protocol for the case of two players (Ya86), Goldreich, Micali and Wigderson (GMW87) offered the first general protocol for this problem, and they provided the paradigm on which a large body of successive work was based. Despite enormous progress, research on secure function evaluation has suffered from some serious shortcomings. First, though many protocols have been devised for solving the problem, what, exactly, these protocols accomplish has not been fully understood. In fact, no rigorously specified and generally accepted definitions have been proposed in this field. Second, protocols for multiparty secure function evaluation could be extremely inefficient, the main cause being that they required an unbounded (and usually large) number of communication rounds. We address both of these points, carefully crafting definitions which satisfactorily deal with the myriad of issues lurking here, and offering a new protocol for multiparty secure function evaluation--one which categorically improves the complexity requirements for this task. The new protocol completely divorces the computational complexity of the function being collaboratively computed from the round complexity of the protocol that evaluates it. Using this approach, we show that a rigorously-specified and extremely strong notion of secure function evaluation can be achieved by a protocol which requires only a fixed constant number of rounds of interaction. This result assumes only the existence of a one-way function and that the majority of the participants to the protocol behave correctly. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.)
N-Acetyl-β-glucosaminidase in rat mast cell granules

Abstract Rat mast cells and their granules were examined for the presence of acid hydrolases which act on polysaccharides. N -Acetyl-β-glucosaminidase was found in relatively high concentration in the cells. The enzyme segregates with mast cell chymase in the large granule fraction on differential centrifugation of mast cell homogenates. N -Acetyl-β-glucosaminidase is readily extracted from the granules and separated from mast cell chymase. In contrast to the latter enzyme, N -acetyl-β-glucosaminidase has an acid pH optimum. Two other acid hydrolases present in mast cells, acid phosphatase and β-glucuronidase differ from N -acetyl-β-glucosaminidase in their distribution on differential centrifugation.
Laser Therapy for the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Review

Laser therapies for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia have progressed significantly over the past decade. The main treatment types are coagulation, vaporization, and cutting techniques. Their appeal compared with the transurethral prostatectomy (TURP) is that many laser treatments have equal efficacy, with decreased side effects such as bleeding and irrigant absorption. Disadvantages are increased cost and the need for further demonstration of benefit compared with TURP. However, each technique has specific advantages and disadvantages. Contact lasers can create an intraoperative TURP-like defect with immediate results and appear to be significant advances. Because noncontact lasers have prolonged irritative effects and the need for catheterization, their use has declined dramatically. Interstitial laser coagulation can be effective, but has a delayed improvement. Advances in laser technology in the next decade likely will increase the popularity of these treatments. However, further comparative trials with TURP and newer noninvasive therapies are necessary to define their true benefit.
Tourism Oriented Policing: An Examination of a Florida/Caribbean Partnership for Police Training:

A partnership was created in late 2000 between the University of Central Florida (UCF), the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA), the government of Saint Lucia, and the private tourism...
Rice lectin: Physico-chemical and carbohydrate-binding properties

Abstract Rice seeds contain a 2-acetamido-2-deoxy- d -glucose-specific lectin. It has an M r of 36 000 and is composed of two identical, non-covalently bound subunits of M r 18 000. Each subunit consists of two disulfide-linked polypeptide chains of M rs 10 000 and 8000. The lectin activity is highly stable to several chemical denaturants and heat treatment. The lectin interacts with glycoproteins, which have either clustered O-linked oligosaccharides or N-linked oligosaccharides. The N-linked glycoproteins include high d -mannose, hybrid and complex biantennary structures.
Racah coefficients, subrepresentation semirings, and composite materials

Typically, physical properties of composite materials are strongly dependent on microstructure. However, in exceptional situations, exact relations exist which are microstructure-independent. Grabovsky has constructed an abstract theory of exact relations, reducing the search for exact relations to a purely algebraic problem involving the multiplication of SO(3)-subrepresentations in certain endomorphism algebras. This motivates us to introduce subrepresentation semirings, algebraic structures which formalize subrepresentation multiplication. We study the ideals and subsemirings of these semirings, relating them to properties of the underlying G-algebra and proving classification theorems in the case of endomorphism algebras of representations. For SU(2), we compute these semirings for general V. When V is irreducible, we describe the semiring structure explicitly in terms of the vanishing of Racah coefficients, coefficients familiar from the quantum theory of angular momentum. In fact, we show that Racah coefficients can be defined entirely in terms of subrepresentation multiplication.
Coping strategies to manage stress related to vision loss and fluctuations in retinitis pigmentosa

Abstract Background Vision loss in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a slowly progressive and inexorable threat to patients' independence. It is not surprising that RP patients, many of whom are young when diagnosed, are at high risk for stress related to their vision loss. To address these issues, eye care providers need to be aware of what coping strategies RP patients use to successfully manage their vision loss. Methods We held focus groups with 8 legally blind RP patients to help us better understand how they cope with the stress that is generated from their progressive vision loss and fluctuations in vision. Focus group sessions were audio-taped and resulting notes were coded using conventional qualitative analytic techniques. Results Two themes were identified: (1) “kicking and screaming” captured the ways in which RP patients fight to maintain their independence in the face of worsening vision; and (2) “there are so many worse things” describes how RP patients keep their vision loss in perspective. These RP patients demonstrated high levels of resiliency. In particular, they often used humor as a coping mechanism. Conclusion Understanding the ways in which RP patients manage their gradual, impending vision loss may lead to improved quality of care for this patient population.
Stochastic economic variables and their effect on net returns to channel catfish production.

Abstract The impact of stochastic price and yield variables on the net returns to catfish production was empirically examined within a risk evaluation framework. Estimated probability distributions for catfish producer prices, catfish feed prices, and simulated catfish yields were incorporated into enterprise budgets that represented three different farm sizes (160 acres, 320 acres, and 640 acres) and two types of general production technologies (single and multiple batch). Simulations generated net return probability distributions which were evaluated using stochastic dominance criteria. Results indicated that the stochastic prices and yields typically experienced by producers leads to non‐normal net return distributions that could lead the risk‐averse producer to underestimate the probability of obtaining low net returns. Results also indicated that large farms were the most risk efficient, regardless of the production technology employed. This suggests the likely continuance of the trend toward fewer, ...
Testing Corn (Zea mays L.) Preseason Regional Nitrogen Recommendation Models in South Dakota

The purpose of a N recommendation model is to maximize profitability and minimize the impacts of agriculture on the environ - ment. To achieve this goal, reliable recommendations must be developed and systematically tested. The objective of this study was to evaluate and test regional N recommendation models from South Dakota, western Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska for their suitability to improve South Dakota N recommendations. Data used to test the models were collected between 2002 and 2004 at Aurora and between 2004 and 2006 at Beresford and Watertown in eastern South Dakota. In this experiment, corn was respon- sive to N fertilizer, soil organic matter was relatively high (>30 g kg -1 ), manure was not applied, and drought conditions were not observed. Root mean square errors and bias of the different regional models were determined. Results showed that: (i) all models were unique and produced different N recommendations; (ii) economically optimum N rates (EONR) were sensitive to changing fertilizer costs and corn selling prices; (ii) water had a large impact on yield and N use efficiency; (iv) yields at the EONR were highly correlated (r = 0.60-0.73, P < 0.01) to the yield difference between fertilized and unfertilized plots; and (v) a modified South Dakota N recommendation model can be used to predict the impact of synergistic relationships between N and water.
Use of High-Temperature Liquid Chromatography with Sub-2 µm Particle C18 Columns for the Analysis of Seized Drugs

Abstract The use of high-temperature liquid chromatography with sub-2 µm particle C18 columns is described for the analysis of seized drugs. The drug compounds investigated include narcotic analgesics, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, and anabolic steroids. Although retention times for 20 solutes of various drug classes decreased with increased temperature (15–95°C) under constant gradient conditions, relative retention times increased, decreased, or remained the same. No significant sample degradation at elevated temperature was observed. The use of rapid gradients at 95°C was well suited for drug screening and the separation of anabolic steroids.
THE THREE-DIMENSIONAL SHAPE OF EPIDERMAL CELLS OF THE APICAL MERISTEM OF ANACHARIS DENSA (ELODEA)

PROBLEMS OF growth in the higher plants, especially those concerned with developmental morphology, often depend for ultimate solution upon the meristems. Recent studies of three-dimensional cell shapes now go back over a considerable number of years, and it has been evident for some time that, in order to answer certain questions, especially those dealing with cellular growth and development from a three-dimensional approach, the meristems, both terminal and lateral, would have to be analyzed. Logically it might seem that these regions should have been investigated first. However, technical difficulties, arising especially from the small size, thin walls, and dense cytoplasmic contents of the cells of the apical meristems made this method of approach impracticable. Nevertheless, the factors responsible for three-dimensional cell shapes cannot be completelv determined until the meristems have been studied. With these considerations in mind the present investigation was undertaken. Reviews of the literature of the topics involved are available. Meristems were considered by Schuepp (1926) and epidermal tissues by Linsbauer (1930); pertinent citations on Anacharis were given by Hulbary (1944). The -epidermis of a more mature tissue-the leaf of Aloe aristatahas been studied (Matzke, 1947) and data on those cells may be used for comparison; complete literature citations are listed there. The shapes of the cells of the cortex of Anacharis were studied by Hulbary (1944), and they show certain similarities to those of epidermal cells. Three-dimensional aspects of epidermal and epithelial cells were considered from various standpoints in a series of investigations by Lewis (1944). Similar studies of internal, morphologically undifferentiated cells by Higinbotham (1942) and other authors, and of nonliving systems such as compressed lead shot and soap films, will be drawn upon for comparative purposes-. Since the growing apices of the plant were reconsidered histologically by Schmidt (1924), the meristems have been carefully analvzed from various aspects by numerous workers, including Priestley (1928, 1929), Foster (1939, 1941, 1942), Johnson (1939, 1944a, 1944b), Allen (1946, 1947),
Photoinduced Charge Separation in Ion-Paired Porphyrin−Single-Wall Carbon Nanotube Donor−Acceptor Hybrids

Photoinduced electron transfer in self-assembled (via ion-pairing) porphyrin−single-wall carbon nanotube (SWNT) donor−acceptor hybrids has been demonstrated. Toward this, first, SWNTs were solubilized by π−π stacking of pyrene (Pyr) functionalized with either a cationic (alkyl ammonium; Pyr-NH3+) or anionic (butyric acid; Pyr-COO−) terminal groups. The SWNT/Pyr-NH3+ and SWNT/Pyr-COO− hybrids thus obtained were subsequently used to generate donor−acceptor hybrids by ion-pairing with free-base or zinc(II) porphyrins bearing either peripheral anionic (sulfonatophenyl) or cationic (N-methylpyridyl) groups. The SWNT/Pyr-NH3+/(TPPS)M and SWNT/Pyr-COO−/(TMPyP)M (where TPPS = tetrakis(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin, TMPyP = tetrakis(N-methylpyridyl)porphyrin, and M = 2H or Zn(II)) thus obtained were spectrally and electrochemically characterized to arrive at the structure and redox potentials. Both steady-state and time-resolved emission studies revealed efficient quenching of the singlet excited state of porphyrins...
Lattice-Matched InAsN(X=0.38) on GaAs Grown by Molecular Beam Epitaxy

In this paper, we report the MBE growth of high nitrogen content lattice-matched InAsi.xNx (x=0.38) single crystal epitaxial films on GaAs. The nitrogen incorporation is about an order higher than previously reported on other mixed group V nitride alloys. These data are consistent with a nitrogen solubility limit calculation in various III-V binary alloys, which predicts orders of magnitude higher nitrogen incorporation in InAs than any other alloys. InAsN growths were obtained using a modified ECR-MBE system with atomic-nitrogen generated by an ECR plasma source. Improved crystal quality was obtained using a “template” growth technique. An x-ray linewidth of 270 arc-s was achieved on a 0.4 µm thick InAs0.62N0.38/GaAs multi-layer structure. Hall effect data show these InAsN films are semi-metallic.
Structural analysis of near-optimal sensor locations for a stochastic large-scale network

Abstract Finding a set of optimal sensor locations in terms of estimated demand uncertainty minimization for a sensor network is a network design problem. This paper presents a multi-objective model, which considers link information gains (weights of each link, in order to correct a priori origin–destination demands) and origin–destination demand coverage to locate a minimal number of passive point sensors in a roadway network constrained by available resources (e.g., budget limits). We discuss a conceptual link framework for structural analysis, which involves network observability (mean of eigenvolume) and uncertainty (variance of eigenvolume). The general idea behind this method is that the first few installed sensors will account for most of the uncertainty of the origin–destination flow if sensors have substantial correlations among each other (e.g., if each link has a sensor installed). The link structure analysis explores the theoretical structure for understanding the essentials of considering network uncertainty and demand coverage simultaneously in the sensor location problem, as well as providing search directions in the hereafter solution procedure. Consequently, a bi-objective model that balances the trade-off between reducing the network uncertainty and covering demand under a budgetary constraint in the context of traffic dynamics is proposed. A heuristic procedure, the hybrid Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure (HGRASP), is applied to find Pareto optimal solutions. A case study on the CHART (Washington, DC–Baltimore, Maryland corridor) network was used to demonstrate the proposed methodology.
Macromolecular binding of the thyroid carcinogen 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole (amitrole) catalyzed by prostaglandin H synthase, lactoperoxidase and thyroid peroxidase

3-Amino-1,2,4-triazole, a thyroid carcinogen and goitrogen, is negative in a wide variety of short-term mutagenicity assays. However, amitrole induces gene mutations and morphological transformation in Syrian hamster embryo fibroblasts, cells known to carry out the prostaglandin H synthase (PHS)-mediated peroxidative metabolism of other carcinogens. Therefore, we have investigated the peroxidase-mediated binding of [14C]amitrole to macromolecules in vitro. We report here the PHS- and lactoperoxidase-catalyzed binding of [14C]amitrole to protein and tRNA, as well as protein binding by rat and hog thyroid peroxidase. PHS was an order of magnitude more active than lactoperoxidase and two orders of magnitude more active than thyroid peroxidase. The low levels of binding observed with thyroid peroxidase could be explained by the rapid and potent inhibition of this enzyme by amitrole. Although the thyroid peroxidase-mediated binding of amitrole was quite low, it was not inhibitable by compounds that would be expected to be competing substrates in vivo (i.e. I-, monoiodotyrosine, diiodotyrosine). Neither catalase nor horseradish peroxidase catalyzed binding of [14C]amitrole. It was also observed that an interaction between amitrole and protein and/or nucleic acid resulted in the slow generation of hydrogen peroxide, which then served as a substrate to drive peroxidase-mediated binding of [14C]amitrole. These data suggest that PHS may be responsible for conversion of amitrole to a mutagenic intermediate in Syrian hamster embryo cells. Furthermore, the generation of reactive metabolites of amitrole by thyroid peroxidase and/or PHS may contribute to the complete carcinogenicity of this compound by adding a mutagenic response to its potent hormonal effects.
Sediment geochemical evidence for an early-middle Gilbert (early Pliocene) productivity peak in the North Pacific Red Clay Province

Abstract Current attempts to understand climatic variability during the early to middle Pliocene require paleoceanographic information from the Pacific and Indian Oceans that may serve to test and/or constrain future circulation models. Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Sites 885/886 are located in the central subarctic North Pacific at water depths exceeding 5700 m. Recent studies of rock magnetic properties suggest that the fine-grained Fe oxide component in sediment at Sites 885/886 experienced reductive dissolution during the early-middle Gilbert. Because such an interval in the North Pacific Red Clay Province suggests a maximum in the sedimentary flux of organic carbon and/or a minimum in bottom water dissolved O 2 concentrations (and Hence, a peak change in North Pacific oceanographic conditions), a geochemical investigation was conducted to test the hypothesis. Quaternary sediment at Hole 886B was subjected to an oxyhydroxide removal procedure, and chemical analyses indicate that bulk sediment concentrations of Fe and the Fe/Sc ratio decrease significantly upon reductive dissolution. Downcore chemical analyses of untreated sediment at Hole 886B demonstrate that similar depletions also occur across the proposed interval of reduced sediment. Downcore chemical analyses also indicate that a pronounced increase in the Ba/Sc ratio occurs across the interval. These results are consistent with an interpretation that abyssal sediment of the North Pacific experienced a decrease in redox conditions during the early-middle Gilbert, and that this change in oxidation state was related to a peak in paleoproductivity. If the zenith of late Miocene to middle Pliocene enhanced productivity observed at other Indo-Pacific divergence regions similarly can be constrained to the early-middle Gilbert, there exists an oceanographic boundary condition in which to test future models concerning Pliocene warmth.
Laser scanning system for real-time mapping of fiber formations in meat analogues.

: High moisture extrusion has been used to produce vegetable meat analogues that resemble real animal meat and can provide significant health benefits. Since visual and textural properties are key factors for consumer acceptance, assessing fiber formation in the extruded products is important for quality control purpose. Recently, we developed a nondestructive photon migration method to quantify fiber formation in meat analogues. In this study, we implemented this technique in a real-time optical scanning system. This system can scan the entire sample area in real-time and provide 2-dimensional maps to visualize the degree of fiber formation and fiber orientation in the sample. The new system has a potential to provide a fast, nondestructive means for online monitoring of the fiber formation in meat analogues.
Wavelet-based method for detection of electrical and electromechanical oscillations in synchronous generators

This paper proposes a real-time wavelet-based method to detect both high-frequency electrical oscillations and low-frequency electromechanical oscillations in synchronous generators of salient poles during faults on the grid. By using the discrete wavelet transform, the spectral energy of a time-domain signal is decomposed in scaling coefficient energy and wavelet coefficient energy. Using the active power of the synchronous generator, the wavelet coefficient energy of a compact mother wavelet can provide the fault detection with no time delay, whereas the scaling coefficient energy can provide the low-frequency electromechanical oscillations. The performance of the proposed method was assessed in an experimental power system, and various mother wavelets were evaluated.
Seasonal changes in low oxygen tolerance of fantail, Etheostoma flabellare, rainbow, E. caeruleum, and greenside, E. blennioides, darters

The tolerance of fantail, rainbow, and greenside darters to low oxygen was determined by exposing fish to conditions of progressively decreasing oxygen levels and recording the oxygen concentration at which loss of equilibrium occurred. The greenside darter was least tolerant to low oxygen levels in summer, with loss of equilibrium occurring at a mean O2 concentration of 3.39 mg l−1. Tolerances then increased through spring. A similar trend was observed for the fantail darter, with the lowest tolerance occurring in summer (2.36 mg −1). and greatest tolerance in spring (2.03 mg l−1). The rainbow darter exhibited its greatest tolerance to low oxygen in summer and spring (1.64 and 1.93 mg l−1, respectively). Interspecific differences were greatest in summer, with greenside darters being the least tolerant to low oxygen levels and the rainbow darter being the most tolerant. No differences in tolerance among the species were noted in winter. The low oxygen tolerance exhibited in summer by the greenside darter may be due to a higher metabolic cost and a higher critical oxygen tension at maximal stream temperatures (>25° C). The observed differences in oxygen tolerance may influence the longitudinal distribution and habitat selection of darters, especially in the summer months.
Chrysothamnus eremobius (Asteraceae): A new species from Nevada

Chrysothamnus eremobius, endemic to mountains of southern Nevada, is formally described and illustrated. Morphological and anatomical comparisons are made to related taxa. The new species has many features likePetradoria discoidea (=C. gramineus). Although it bears some similarity toC. depressus andC. vaseyi of sectionPulchelli, C. eremobius is better placed in sectionChrysothamnus nearC. viscidiflorus.
Post-launch lessons learned from the AIRS science data processing system

The AIRS Science Data Processing System, responsible for processing data from the 4-instrument AIRS suite, includes 14 separate executable programs and produces dozens of products. These executable programs and products conform to ECS standards for processing and archival at Goddard Earth Sciences DAAC. These standards include format and metadata constraints, and the PGE paradigm. Before launch the AIRS team defined and implemented all PGEs, created simulated test data, verified PGE performance with simulated and ground test data, and verified PGE integration within the GES DAAC processing and archiving systems. To support validation and continued software development, Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) developed a limited shadow production system, and received all instrument data after launch. This in-house system was not designed to process and serve all data, but rather to run experimental versions of our software and to run additional non-deliverable programs in support of validation. These pre-flight preparations paid off, and the first year after launch has been very active for the AIRS science data processing group. Still, lessons can be learned from our experiences during our first year of data processing and post-launch software development. These experiences and observations may be useful to science seams developing future Earth observing instruments.
Extreme Convection of the Near-Equatorial Americas, Africa, and Adjoining Oceans as seen by TRMM

AbstractThis study documents the preferred location and diurnal cycle of extreme convective storms that occur in the tropical band containing the east Pacific Ocean, Central and South America, the Atlantic Ocean, and northern Africa. Data from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Precipitation Radar show three types of convective-stratiform structures that constitute extreme convective events: deep convective cores (DCCs), wide convective cores (WCCs), and broad stratiform regions (BSRs). Interim ECMWF Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim) data show the associated synoptic environmental factors associated with the occurrence of extreme convective features. The DCC, WCC, and BSR echoes are associated with early, middle, and late stages of convective system development, respectively, and the statistics and timing of their occurrence are related to topography and life cycle behavior of the convection. Storms containing DCC occur primarily over the Sudanian savannas of Africa and near the mountains in northern ...
Tritium in the thermal waters discharging in Loowit Canyon, Mount St. Helens, Washington, U.S.A.

Abstract The tritium contents in the Loowit hot springs were determined for samples collected in 1986–1989 and 3 H was modeled using two separate methods to estimate fluid ages and determine if an older component of water enters the geothermal system at Loowit. Estimated fluid ages, assuming either well-mixed or piston-flow behavior, indicate fluid ages could lie in the range of 2–184 yr. Refinements to this first model, with the use of geologic, topographic and hydrologic data, indicate average fluid ages are ⩽ 10 yr. Advection-dispersion modeling indicates that average fluid transit times are ∼ 5 yr. and horizontal fluid velocities of ∼ 200 m yr. − can be expected in the Loowit system. Hence, both modeling efforts indicate that water in the Loowit system was recharged after the eruptions of Mt. St. Helens in 1980 and deeper, pre-1980 fluid, stored in the deposits of the volcano, is not required to explain the behavior of the newly formed geothermal system.
VARIABILITY IN BLOOD PLATELET INHIBITORY ACTIVITY OF ALLIUM (ALLIACEAE) SPECIES ACCESSIONS

In the past 20 yr, the presence of blood platelet inhibitory activity in plant species from the genus Allium has been confirmed by a range of clinical and in vitro investigations. Although a number of Allium species have been identified as possessing antiplatelet properties, little is known of the variability for this trait among accessions in these species. Experiments were conducted to assess variability in antiplatelet activity of 58 Allium (Alliaceae) accessions. Extracts were prepared from a diverse collection of 16 Allium species accessions, 33 cultivated accessions of Allium cepa including standard cultivars, inbred lines, and open-pollinated populations, and nine Allium cepa plant introductions of diverse origin. Platelet inhibitory activity was determined via a platelet aggregation assay with human platelet-rich plasma. Relative in vitro inhibition of platelet aggregation was measured for each accession and control samples, and inhibition constants (IC50) were calculated. Dose-dependent inhibition was observed and measured for each Allium accession. Significant (P < 0.01) IC50 variability was detected among accessions, with the lowest accession IC50 values exhibiting nearly 50-fold greater inhibition of aggregation than the highest accession IC50 values. IC50 variability among Allium cepa accessions was 12 times less than among Allium species accessions. Results from this investigation demonstrate substantial variability for efficacy of the antiplatelet factor among Allium accessions. In the past 20 yr, the presence of factors in plants that inhibit blood platelets has been confirmed by a range of clinical and in vitro investigations. Although antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants in animal species such as the leech, tick, bat, and snake have been well studied (Chao et al., 1989; Seymour et al., 1990; Munro, Jones, and Sawyer, 1991; Connolly, Jacobs, and Condra, 1992; Keller et al., 1993) little work on similar activities derived from plants has been conducted. The presence of platelet-inhibiting factors in plants may present a unique opportunity for dietary enhancement of blood circulation. Furthermore, if genetic control of these factors can be established, approaches to plant improvement may allow for increased concentration of native antiplatelet agents in plants resulting in value-added food products.
Morphologic Analysis of Bipolar Radiofrequency Lesions: Implications for Treatment of the Sacroiliac Joint

Background and Objectives Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction is an important cause of mechanical low-back pain. Bipolar radiofrequency ablation has been proposed as a long-lasting treatment for pain in patients with SI dysfunction who report temporary pain relief with local-anesthetic injection into the joint. No data are available to guide the technical aspects of bipolar radiofrequency lesion creation. This study documents the optimal spacing of cannulae and time required to produce bipolar lesions by use of radiofrequency technology. Methods Two radiofrequency cannulae were secured in a parallel position 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mm apart and submerged in egg white for lesion production in a medium that would allow visualization of the size and shape of the lesions as they were created. Temperatures of the probes were raised from 40°C to 90°C at a constant rate and were held at 90°C for 190 seconds. The progress of lesion formation was photographed every 10 seconds, and the resultant surface area of the lesions was measured from the digital images. Results Contiguous strip lesions were produced when the cannulae were spaced 6 mm or less apart; unipolar lesions around each cannula resulted if they were spaced more than 6 mm apart. Ninety percent of the final lesion area was reached by 120 seconds, and the final lesion size was reached by 150 seconds, regardless of spacing. Conclusions Bipolar radiofrequency treatment creates continuous “strip” lesions proportional in size to the distance between the probes when the distance between cannulae is 6 mm or less. Spacing the cannulae 4 to 6 mm apart and treating at 90° C for 120 to 150 seconds maximizes the surface area of the lesion.
Negative and positive regulation of human leukocyte antigen class I gene transcription in K562 leukemia cells.

Abstract The mechanism of transcriptional activation of human leukocyte antigen class I genes by gamma interferon and 5-azacytidine was studied in K562 human leukemia cells. Nuclear run-on transcription assays with various protein and RNA synthesis inhibitors yield evidence for both stimulation of a positive regulatory factor and inhibition of an mRNA that codes for a labile repressor. A novel mechanism is proposed to explain how 5-azacytidine can activate repressed genes without affecting DNA methylation.
Proteomic mapping for legume nodule organogenesis

While genetic screens have identified mutants of the model legume Lotus japonicus that can nodulate in the absence of rhizobia, the lack of a proteome map is a major hindrance to understanding the functional protein networks associated with this nodulation process. In this issue of Proteomics, Dam et al. (Proteomics 2014, 14, 230-240) developed 2D gel-based reference maps of nodules and roots of Lotus and a spontaneous nodule formation mutant (snf1). Comparative proteomic analysis of roots and two developmental stages of nodules provide useful insights into tissue-specific mechanisms underlying nodule organogenesis. Additionally, a comparison of interspecies nodule proteomes displays that overlapping and individual mechanisms are associated with legume nodulation.
Dynamics of asymmetrical hybridization in North American wood ferns: reconciling patterns of inheritance with gametophyte reproductive biology

Summary � Hybridization is an important evolutionary force in plants, but the mechanisms underlying it have not been well studied for many groups. In particular, the drivers of non-random patterns of interspecific gene flow (asymmetrical hybridization) remain poorly understood, especially in the seed-free vascular plants. Here, we examine patterns of asymmetrical hybridization in two widespread fern hybrids from eastern North America and study the role of gametophyte ecology in the determination of hybridization bias. � We characterized the maternal parentage of > 140 hybrid sporophytes by sequencing a c. 350-bp region of chloroplast DNA (cpDNA). To identify factors contributing to patterns of asymmetrical hybridization, we cultured gametophytes of the parental species and evaluated critical aspects of their reproductive biology. � We found that asymmetrical hybridization was prevalent across the populations of both hybrids. Reproductive traits varied across species and suggest that selfing potential, antheridiogen responsiveness, sperm dispersal capacity and gamete size all contribute to the mediation of the direction of hybridization in this group. � Our findings suggest that asymmetrical hybridization in ferns is driven by an array of reproductive traits. This study helps to sharpen and define a mechanistic understanding of patterns of hybridization in this group and demonstrates the importance of considering gametophyte biology when studying evolutionary processes in ferns.
New model catalysts : uniform platinum cluster arrays produced by electron beam lithography

Platinum particles of 50 nm diameter and 15 run height at 200 nm spacing have been prepared on an oxidized silicon wafer using electron beam lithography. These particles were cleaned of surface carbon with low energy (400 eV) neon ion sputtering. The rate of ethylene hydrogenation over this new model catalyst was measured in a UHV chamber equipped with a high pressure cell for catalytic reaction. Measured turnover numbers are on good agreement with previous work. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and temperature programmed desorption (TPD) indicate the sample structure remains unaltered by the cleaning and the catalytic reaction.
Lifted Flame Speed Enhancement by Plasma Excitation of Oxygen

O2(a 1 Δg) were observed for each flame by comparing flame stabilization locations with and without the plasma generated species. Atmospheric pressures were utilized to investigate the effects of O3 and showed up to a 10% enhancement in the flame speed for 1300 ppm of O3 addition to the O2/N2 oxidizer of lifted C3H8 flames. Numerical simulations showed that the O3 decomposition early in the preheat zone of the flame produced O which rapidly reacted with C3H8 to abstract an H, which led to OH production. The subsequent reaction of the OH with fuel fragments produced H2O and other stable species, yielding chemical heat release to enhance the flame speed. The effect of O2(a 1 Δg) was studied at low pressure (27 Torr) and was isolated by adding NO to the plasma afterglow to eliminate O3. For transport times on the order of one second in the presence of NO, the only remaining oxygen species were O2(X 3 Δg) and O2(a 1 Δg). Under these conditions, the enhancement of O2(a 1 Δg) could be studied in isolation, becoming an ideal source for combustion experiments. It was found that O2(a 1 Δg) was a better oxidizer than O2 by significantly enhancing the propagation speed of C2H4 flames. The present experimental results will have a direct impact on the development of elementary reaction rates with O2(a 1 Δg) and O3 at flame conditions to establish detailed plasma-flame kinetic mechanisms.
4.2: Invited Paper: Development of High Mobility Zinc Oxynitride Thin Film Transistors

Possible mechanisms to achieve high mobility in zinc oxynitride (ZnON) have been investigated by comparison with other thin film semiconductors. Integrated processes to fabricate ZnON TFTs have been developed. Issues and challenges encountered at current stage will be discussed.
The Utility of Microsurgical Loupes in Performing Colposcopy: A Pilot Study

Background: The aim of the study was to compare microsurgical loupes to traditional colposcopes with regard to physician comfort, efficiency and accuracy in performing colposcopy. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study. Colposcopy was performed using microsurgical loupes and traditional colposcopes on the same set of patients. Time to completion, biopsies to be taken, and comfort level associated with examination for each method were recorded. Results: A total of 54 patients were included in this study. It took significantly less time to evaluate the cervix with loupes (mean: 72.4 ± 39.7 seconds) compared to the colposcope (102.3 ± 48.9 seconds; P < 0.001). The comfort level for using loupes was better than that for colposcopes (2.8 ± 2.4 vs. 5.7 ± 2.8, respectively; P < 0.001). The probability that the lesions to be biopsied matched for both modalities was 0.90 (95% CI: 0.81 - 0.95). Conclusions: Microsurgical loupes have comparable accuracy to traditional colposcopes, but with shorter exam time and better comfort for the provider. J Clin Gynecol Obstet. 2014;3(4):129-132 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jcgo291w
Female cancer survivors are low responders and have reduced success compared with other patients undergoing assisted reproductive technologies

Objective To investigate the effect of prior chemotherapy and radiation on assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting University-based infertility clinic. Patient(s) Female cancer survivors who had received chemotherapy or radiation and all other women undergoing first-fresh IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. Intervention(s) Survivors' ART outcomes were compared with all women undergoing first-fresh IVF/ICSI cycles and those with male-factor infertility only. Multivariate logistic and Poisson regression analyses were used to estimate the effect of cancer therapy on ART outcomes. Main Outcomes Measure(s) Number of oocytes retrieved and embryos obtained; odds of cycle cancelation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth. Result(s) Compared with others undergoing IVF/ICSI, survivors had significantly fewer oocytes retrieved and embryos available for transfer. In addition, survivors were significantly more likely to be canceled (odds ratio [OR] 5.60, 95% CI 2.94–10.66) and had lower pregnancy and live birth rates (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.13–0.68; and OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.10–0.69; respectively). Odds ratios were stronger when the comparison group was restricted to those with male-factor infertility only. Conclusion(s) Women who have received systemic therapy for malignancy should be considered to be low responders and counseled that their per-cycle live birth rate is lower than that of their peers. These data strongly support offering fertility preservation before cancer therapy when possible.
Selection and acquisition in an art school library

It is 8 o’clock at night in the Art School Library. Hands covered in clay, boots coated with dust, a frantic figure appears at the circulation desk. “I need to know how a deer’s antlers are joined to its head. Where can I find a picture T’ At 8:15 p.m., another anxious face appears, “Where can I find information on Kenneth Snelson?” It is now five minutes to nine, the Library is about to close when the phone rings, “My instructor suggested that I inquire about studying at the University of Loughborough. How can I find the address?” The answers to these questions can be found respectively in, a book on taxidermy, a current exhibition catalog, and the Commonwealth Universities Handbook. How does an Art School Library, with a limited budget, ensure that it has the range of resources necessary to answer these fairly typical questions? In an unofficial survey made in 1981 of nine art schools, the average book budget reported came to less than $15,000. Working with such a minimal budget, every dollar spent must be carefully weighed. The approach has to be systematic, well planned, and in accordance with established policies. It must be decided which selection sources are pertinent to the student’s needs, and which of those offer the best value. Finally, all existing methods of acquisition must be explored, and decisions made as to the most useful and efficient. Of 30 art schools surveyed in 1981, only two had established written collection policies. If you are to make every dollar count, it is essential to start off with the clearest possible idea of whom the library aims to serve, and what there needs are. This can only be done by first establishing the objectives of the institution which the library serves. At last count, approximately 30 studio art schools were represented in the Art Library Society of North America (ARLlS/NA). These cover a wide range of programs, from a small unaccredited college, to
Model-based process monitoring using robust generalized linear models

Model-based process-monitoring procedures are extremely useful in situations where an output variable of interest is impacted by one or more inputs to the process, and where there are multistage processes with multiple inputs and outputs. To build the model relating input and output variables, the procedure uses historical data, which often contain outliers. To accommodate the presence of these outliers, a robust fitting scheme is introduced for the Generalized Linear Model in process monitoring. Robust deviance residuals are defined and used as the basis of the monitoring procedure. An example and a simulation study for a gamma-distributed response are included. The average run length performance reveals that the procedure is effective for detecting small process shifts when outliers are present.
Affinity chromatography purification of diphtheria toxin.

NAD was covalently linked to Sepharose-4B using a 6 carbon spacer. Sterile, dialyzed spent culture medium containing 100 Lf/ml of diphtheria toxin or material concentrated by (NH4)2SO4 precipitation containing 1500 Lf/ml, was chromatographed on a column of NAD–Sepharose. Ultraviolet absorbing material which did not flocculate with diphtheria antitoxin was eluted with 0.02M phosphate buffer. When the elation buffer was changed to one containing 0.5M NaCl, purified toxin was eluted off the column.
A POLICY OF OUR OWN: LOCAL FEMINIST NETWORKS AND SOCIAL SERVICES FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN

This article examines the ways in which a feminist family policy agenda has led to significant political action and change within American cities. Feminist groups, during the past fifteen years, became a part of emerging local women's rights policy networks that effected changes in several services for women and children: libraries (programming for women and non-sexist children's literature acquisitions policies); public education (gender equit under Title IX); social welfare (child care and displaced homemaker services); and criminal justice and health (the treatment of the victims of rape and domestic violence). This policy success stems not only from the workings of traditional interest group politics and policy networks but also from the astute use of political symbols, bureaucratic norms, and the federal system.
An Algebra for Integration and Analysis of Ponder2 Policies

Traditional policies often focus on access control requirement and there have been several proposals to define access control policy algebras to handle their compositions. Recently, obligations are increasingly being expressed as part of security policies. However, the compositions and interactions between these two have not yet been studied adequately. In this paper, we propose an algebra capturing both authorization and obligation policies. The algebra consists of two policy constants and six basic operations. It provides language independent mechanisms to manage policies. As a concrete example, we instantiate the algebra for the Ponder2 policy language.
Energy Bands in Crystals

We are now in a position to make additional important statements which contribute considerably to the understanding of the properties of crystals. For this we plot the energy versus the momentum of the electrons or, because of (4.8), versus the wave vector k. As before we first discuss the one-dimensional case.
Fast energy transfer within a self-assembled cyclic porphyrin tetramer

The structure of a cyclic self-assembled tetramer of an asymmetric meso-ethynylpyridyl-functionalized Zn(II)–porphyrin was established by solution-phase X-ray scattering and diffraction; femtosecond transient absorption and anisotropy spectroscopies were used to (a) observe rapid energy transfer (3.8 ps−1) between porphyrin subunits and (b) establish that the transfer occurs between adjacent units.
The role of glutathione in the transport and catabolism of nitric oxide

Nitric oxide acts as a neuronal and vascular messenger implying diffusion through intracellular environments containing 5-10 mM glutathione. Nitric oxide reacts with glutathione under aerobic conditions generating S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO). GSNO reacts with glutathione (k= 8.3 X 10(-3) M-1 X s-1) to generate nitrous oxide and glutathione disulfide (GSSG). Anaerobically, glutathione reacts with nitric oxide generating nitrous oxide and GSSG (k= 4.8 X 10(-4) s-1 at 5 mM GSH). In both aerobic and anaerobic situations the nitroxyl anion may be an intermediate in the synthesis of nitrous oxide and, under aerobic conditions, nitroxyl anion may generate peroxynitrite. We present a hypothesis for the intracellular interaction between nitric oxide and glutathione.