cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Treatment of children with Down syndrome and growth retardation with recombinant human growth hormone.

The effect of recombinant human growth hormone on children with Down syndrome who had growth retardation and microcephaly was examined. Thirteen children with trisomy 21 without congenital heart disease who were short for age (−1.19 to −3.5 standard deviation score) and microcephalic (−1.58 to −6.60 standard deviation score) were given recombinant human growth hormone, 0.1 mg/kg subcutaneously, 3 days a week for 1 year. Before treatment, peak serum growth hormone concentrations were less than 10 μg/L after levodopa and clonidine stimulation tests in five patients, after clonidine in three patients, and after levodopa in three patients. Three patients had nocturnal integrated growth hormone concentrations of 0.5, 1.5, and 0.65 μg/L, respectively. The mean growth rate before treatment was 5.4±1.6 cm/yr and increased to 12.2±3.2 cm/yr ( p p 1c concentration was normal during treatment with recombinant human growth hormone. The mean plasma concentrations of insulin-like growth factor I at baseline and at 12 months were 0.54±0.19 U/ml and 1.25±0.97 U/ml, respectively ( p
Responding to scientific uncertainty in U.S. forest policy

Abstract Scientific uncertainty plays a significant role in forest policy and planning. Ecological complexity, the gap between science and policy, and public perceptions of science all contribute to the challenge of dealing with scientific uncertainty. This paper provides an overview of the role of scientific uncertainty in U.S. forest policy and an analysis of the requirements for responding to uncertainty under the National Forest Management Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and Endangered Species Act. The analysis includes a review of a broad range of literature and relevant statutory and regulatory language, along with several illustrative examples of case law. Findings include that all three laws allow for considerable agency discretion in cases of scientific uncertainty, and none prescribes a particular response to uncertainty. Approaches such as adaptive management may provide a way to proceed despite uncertainty, and while this approach represents something of a new paradigm in public land management, it is not incompatible with the current legal framework. The article concludes with recommendations, such as increased transparency and changes in the norms of judicial review, for increasing the accountability of decisions when uncertainty is involved. Also considered are other suggestions, such as peer-review, Daubert standards, and Bayesian inference techniques.
Parametric study of magnetic gear for maximum torque transmission

Magnetic gears have the advantages of contact-less torque transmission and inherent overload protection. This paper compares different magnetic gear topologies. It is found that for a given gear ratio, a higher number of poles pairs improves the torque transmission capability. Further, it is seen that a magnetic gear topology with spoke type magnets on the inner rotor and surface mounted magnets on the outer rotor offers high torque transmission capability, with mechanical reliability. In addition, the effect of different geometrical parameters on the performance of magnetic gear is explored. Finite element based simulation results are presented.
Numerical solutions of exterior problems with the reduced wave equation

Abstract A new technique for numerically solving the reduced wave equation on exterior domains is presented. The method is basically a relaxation scheme. It is general enough to handle both inhomogeneous and nonlinear indices of refraction. Although the convergence is slow, the technique is tested on two classical problems: the scattering of a plane wave off a metal cylinder and off a metal sphere. The results are in good qualitative agreement with previously calculated values. In particular, the numerical solutions exhibit the correct diffractive effects at moderate frequencies.
UPTAKE AND LOSS OF ZINC-65 IN THE DRAGONFLY PLATHEMIS LYDIA

Study of uptake and loss of zinc-65 in the dragonfly Hnthemis lydin employed concentrations of 0.005 to 0.5 PC =Zn ClJml water on 200 early, middle, and late instar larvae. Rate and amount of uptake are independent of temperature ( 10, 20, and 30C ) ; equilibrium is attained in 24-48 hr. Loss rato is significantly greater at lOC, than at 20 and 30C. Uptake and loss rates are independent of body size ( = age), but the amount concentrated is inversely related to body size, the coefficient of accumulation being 68 in small larvae, 28 in larger ones. Total uptake is directly proportional to isotope availability in the medium; owing to experimental error, it could not bc dctcrmined whether rate of uptake is affected by concentration. Loss rates in the field and the laboratory do not differ. Feeding experiments arc inconclusive. Loss rate in dead animals is the same as in live larvae, and 95% of initial activity remains on the cast exuvium at molting and final metamorphosis. Uptake is concluded to be by surface adsorption or cation cxchangc thereby imposing difficulty in using =Zn as an indicator of metabolic activity in energy flow studies. Odonata may function significantly in redistributing zinc, the bulk of which localizes in the upper sediments.
Discrete, continuous, and combined simulation

This tutorial paper introduces the major types of simulation models: discrete, continuous, and combined. It concentrates on illustrating the models by describing their variable characteristics, through modeling a liquid waste disposal system, first as a continuous sub-model, next a discrete sub-model, finally as a unified combined model. Methods for implementing these models using various hardware and language tools is discussed and specific reference to certain languages is made. It is hoped that this material will increase the modeler's understanding of the basic, dynamic nature of modeled systems and their variables so as to enhance the initiation phase of a simulation project.
Separation of oligonucleotides derived from the phenylalanine transfer ribonucleic acid of Escherichia coli B by thin-layer techniques.

Abstract The practical use of thin-layer chromatography and electrophoresis in the separation and identification of oligonucleotides derived from nuclease hydrolyses of a single transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNAPhe from Escherichia coli B) has been explored, with particular attention to limitations of oligonucleotide size and to subsequent recovery and degradation analysis at the 1–10 nanomole level. In this range, where thin-layer methods are most efficient, satisfactory recoveries from the adsorbent are limited to penta- and smaller oligonucleotides, and the subsequent analyses require methods of corresponding sensitivity. The latter need is satisfied by the “nucleoside analyzer” of U ziel , K oh and C ohn . The most efficient use of thin-layer methods appears to be separation, in one dimension, of mixed-peaks derived from a prior column separation of the original enzymic digest of the tRNA in question.
BOUNDS FOR THE TORSION OF ELLIPTIC CURVES OVER EXTENSIONS WITH BOUNDED RAMIFICATION

Let E be a semi-stable elliptic curve defined over ℚ, and fix N ≥ 2. Let KN/ℚ be a maximal algebraic Galois extension of ℚ whose ramification indices are all at most N. We show that there exists a computable bound B(N), which depends only on N and not on the choice of E/ℚ, such that the size of E(KN)Tors is always at most B(N).
Age Differences in Context Integration in Memory

This research examined the role of contextual integration in memories of younger and older adults. In 2 experiments, recall of a target picture to a context picture cue was better when sentences were generated that integrated the picture pair and when the picture pairs were already related to each other. Age differences were smallest when sentences were generated for semantically related pairs. Older adults generated the same type sentences as younger adults, although they generated fewer integrations for unrelated pairs. In a 3rd experiment, younger adults could not differentiate between younger- and older-generated sentences from Experiment 1, and the sentences did not differentially affect recall performance. The results are discussed in terms of age differences in self-initiated processing when using context.
A kinematic model for SS433

THE bizarre object SS433, first noted because of its Hα emission1 and most recently because it is the optical counterpart of a variable radio and X-ray source2–4, exhibits an extraordinary optical spectrum5. Three sets of emission lines of hydrogen and helium appear: one is near zero radial velocity (less than 180 km s−1), and the other two show large and variable shifts to the blue and red. These shifts are almost unquestionably due to the Doppler effect, as multiple lines with constant z ≡ Δλ/λ have been identified in both the red and blue systems6–8. The observed range of shifts5,8 corresponds to velocities from 0 to −30,000 km s−1 in the blueshift system, and 11,000 to 48,000 km s−1 in the redshift system, with the two sets of lines moving −180° out of phase with each other. At present the redand blueshift variations seem periodic, with a period of about 164 d, based on the observation of parts of three cycles7,8.
Technology versus clinical evaluation for fluid management decisions in CABG patients.

An exploratory study was designed to determine whether data made available by a pulmonary artery catheter or data obtained by noninvasive clinical evaluation were used as a basis for fluid management decisions in stable coronary artery bypass graft patients approximately 18 hours postoperatively and beyond. The sample consisted of 40 fluid management decisions made on 33 patients. The data were collected on all of the factors that influenced the decision. In no instance was information provided by the pulmonary artery catheter used as a basis for a fluid management decision; only noninvasive clinical measures were influential. The study questions the prolonged use of this medical technology with its attendant cost and risk. Nurses' roles in managing technology are highligthed.
Nerve Cell Deterioration Associated with Alzheimer's Disease

Abstract. Alzheimer's disease is an extremely serious condition that is challenging to diagnose. We have used experimental data to compare the rate of decay of entorhinal cortex (EC) neurons in various stages of Alzheimer's. We observed that the rate of EC neuron decay in the patients without Alzheimer's is close to zero, linear in mild cases, and quadratic in severe cases. We believe that described estimates may help to diagnose the disease as well as its stage.
Heritility of field resistance to potato leafroU virus in cultivated potato

Potato progenies in a line × tester mating design and the clonal parents were screened for field resistance to potato leafroll virus (PLRV) to determine the heritability of this trait. Twelve advanced potato clones or varieties were crossed as pistillate parents to two pollen testers. The seedling progenies and clonal parents were exposed to aphid-transmitted potato leafroll virus for two growing seasons. Cumulative infection by potato leafroll virus was determined by post-season serological indexing of foliage grown from sprouted tubers after 2 years of exposure. Narrow-sense heritability was estimated from regression of mid-parent on progeny as h 2 = 0.72. This estimate indicates a high level of useable genetic variance for PLRV resistance in advanced breeding materials. Although variation in resistance to PLRV appears to be a quantitative trait in susceptible and moderately resistant clones, performance of the most resistant parents suggests that genes with major effects may be present. These results are similar to the conclusions of other researchers who found one or two genes controlling the phenotypes of extreme resistance, resistance to infection, or suppression of virus titre.
The Rectification Properties of an Electrode-Electrolyte Interface Operated at High Sinusoidal Current Density

The rectifying properties of a stainless steel/saline electrode-electrolyte interface were investigated using sinusoidal current (100, 1000, and 10 000 Hz) of increasing current density. The series-equivalent resistance, capacitance, and impedance were determined versus current density. At each frequency, with increasing current density, it was found that above a critical current density, the capacitance increased, the resistance and impedance decreased then increased. The current density for these transitions were higher as the frequency was increased. There was a threshold (peak-to-peak) current density for rectification, being 3.2, 30 and 390 mA/cm2 for 100, 1000, and 10 000 Hz, respectively. The most sensitive indicator of approaching rectification was the increase in capacitance of the electrode-electrolyte interface with increasing current density.
An analytic comparison of the effect of steady state and cyclic pulsed radiation on void growth and swelling

The analysis of Ghoniem and Kulcinski of pulsed radiation was extended to include the effects of temperature oscillations and multiple pulses. Multiple pulses are required before the vacancy concentration stabilizes to an oscillation between limits. Then void growth proceeds at a nearly uniform rate. Point defect recombination plays only a minor role, but temperature oscillations play a significant role.
Hyaluronic acid suppresses fibronectin fragment mediated cartilage chondrolysis: I. In vitro

A commercial preparation of 800-kDa hyaluronic acid (HA), (ARTZ from Seikagaku, Inc.), has been used as a therapeutic intervention in the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA). We tested the effect of this HA form, HA/800, in an in vitro cartilage chondrolytic system in which a specific amino-terminal 29-kDa fragment of fibronectin (Fn-f) penetrates cartilage tissue to activate chondrocytes to amplify two major chondrolytic activities: suppression of proteoglycan (PG) synthesis and induction of matrix metalloproteinases. We report that HA/800 did not block damage by Fn-f in serum free cartilage cultures. However, HA/800 was effective in blocking the ability of 100 nM Fn-f to cause the degradation and release of half of the total cartilage PG from cartilage in 10% serum/DMEM cultures. While the Fn-f caused a half-time for PG release of 3 days, continuous exposure to 0.1 or 1 mg/ml HA/800 slowed the half-time to 12 days. Further, a single 1 day pre-incubation with 0.1 or 1 mg/ml HA/800 was sufficient to decrease the half-time of 100 nM Fn-f mediated PG depletion to 7 and 12 days, respectively. HA/800 completely blocked the effect of 10 nM Fn-f. Blocking of Fn-f-mediated cartilage PG depletion was associated with a decreased concentration of Fn-f on the superficial cartilage surface and decreased penetration into the cultured cartilage tissue. Further, the two major chondrolytic activities of the Fn-f, suppression of synthesis of PG and enhanced release of stromelysin-1, were suppressed by HA/800. HA/800 also partially restored PG in cartilage first damaged with the Fn-F. We conclude that HA/800 slows Fn-f-mediated cartilage chondrolysis in vitro and has some reparative potential. The damage blocking activity appears to be associated with the ability of HA/800 to block penetration of the Fn-f, rather than with direct effects on cartilage tissue.
Invited application paper: a proposal for the specialization of HA/DRE systems

Working with High Assurance (HA) and Distributed, Real-time Embedded (DRE) applications, we have found numerous opportunities for software specialization. The problem has been that partial evaluation (PE) alone is insufficient to carry out all the useful forms of specialization that we envision. The contribution of this paper is to lay out a vision for the types of tool support, methods, specialization models, and specialization patterns that are needed to address these types of applications. Our goal is to start a conversation with researchers in this area in order to further develop this approach and help realize this vision.
MULTIPLE REGULATORS OF ULTRASONIC VOCALIZATION IN THE INFANT RAT

This paper reviews our growing understanding of the external environmental and the internal neuroregulatory mechanisms for the infant rat's vocal response to abrupt isolation from nest, littermates and mother. Interactions of the rat pup with specific components of its animate and inanimate environment have been identified and found to exert a tonic regulatory action on the neural systems mediating ultrasonic vocalization (USV). In isolation, withdrawal of these regulators produces an acute outburst of calling. Changes in rate of ultrasonic calling in response to administration of receptor agonist and antagonist agents generally correspond to the effects of those agents on measures of anxiety in adult animals and in human clinical populations, suggesting a conservation of neural substrates for anxiety in evolution and in development. The inhibition of isolation calling in response to predator cues and its potentiation by brief exposure to maternal cues, represent novel forms of regulation with implications for neuroendocrine development and for the neurobiology of early cognitive-emotional processes.
On stability and posteritical behavior of interactive tension cracks in brittle solids

The growth of interactive tension cracks in brittle solids is investigated in general. Cases are considered where the growth regime of several cracks, which are extending simultaneously in a stable manner, may become unstable. The fracture process is assumed to be governed by the Mode I conditions, and only straight-crack extension is examined. First, a variational formulation is presented, and a parametric description of the corresponding potential energy is given. Conditions under which unique crack growth rates correspond to given rates of loading are established from the stationary character of the potential energy, and critical states at which uniqueness, fails, are identified. Four types of critical states are identified, three of which stem from the constraint imposed by the physical conditions associated with crack growth phenomena, whereas the fourth emerges from the vanishing of the Hessian of the second variation of potential energy. The postcritical behavior is determined by minimization of the parametric form of the potential energy. Then a perturbation method is used, and the effect of material inhomogeneity and imperfection sensitivity is examined. Explicit results are obtained for two interacting cracks where imperfection arises from small differences in the fracture toughness of the cracks. It is shown in particular, that if the toughness of the cracks differs by a quantity of the order e, then the strain level at which instability takes place, drops from its value for the case with no imperfection by a quantity of the order e1/2.
Selective maximization of 31P MR spectroscopic signals of in vivo human brain metabolites at 3T

Purpose To develop a short TR, short TE, large flip angle (LFA), in vivo 31P MR spectroscopy (MRS) technique at 3T that selectively maximizes the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of long T1 human brain metabolites implicated in bipolar disorder. Materials and Methods Two pulse sequences were evaluated for efficiency. Slice profiles acquired with the scaled, sinc-shaped, radiofrequency (RF) LFA pulses were compared to those acquired with Shinnar-Le Roux (SLR) RF LFA pulses. The SLR-based LFA pulse sequence was used to maximize the inorganic phosphate signal in a phantom, after which volunteer metabolite signals were selectively maximized and compared to their correlates acquired with conventional spin-echo methods. Results The comparison of slice profiles acquired with sinc-shaped RF LFA pulses vs. SLR RF LFA pulses showed that SLR-based pulse sequences, with their improved excitation and slice profiles, yield significantly better results. In vivo LFA spin-echo MRS implemented with SLR pulses selectively increased the 31P MRS signal, by as much as 93%, of human brain metabolites that have T1 times longer than the TR of the acquisition. Conclusion The data show that the LFA technique can be employed in vivo to maximize the signal of long T131P brain metabolites at a given TE and TR. LFAs ranging between 120° and 150° are shown to maximize the 31P signal of human brain metabolites at 3T. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A simulation study of electron hole distributions

Narrowband electrostatic noise (NEN) is frequently observed in the Earth‧s distant magnetotail. NEN exhibits a spectral peak between 100 and 316 Hz and is very impulsive, having a peak amplitude in the range 10−4−10−3V/m√Hz. It has been suggested that NEN represents a plasma wave mode which results from a hole in the low energy electron velocity distribution. In this paper, it is shown by means of numerical simulation that a wave mode is excited in the presence of a modest sized electron hole. In the simulations the mode saturates at low amplitudes, in agreement with observations, without destroying the hole. It is suggested that the burst-like behavior of NEN is due to the persistence of these nonstandard modes and their ability to be excited by a variety of weak free energy sources.
High temperature electrical conductivity of epitaxial Gd-doped CeO2 thin films

Abstract Single-crystalline epitaxial Gd-doped CeO2 (GCO, Gd0.2Ce0.8O1.9) thin films were grown on (001) NdGaO3 (NGO) and LaAlO3 (LAO) substrates through pulsed-laser deposition. The electrical conductivity was investigated by AC impedance spectroscopy. The temperature dependence of the electrical conductivity gives an activation energy of 0.74 eV for GCO/NGO and a conductivity which is very close to that of the bulk polycrystalline material. For GCO films deposited on LAO, the conductivity of the substrate makes a significant contribution to the total measured conductivity.
Suppression of Intestinal Neoplasia by Deletion of Dnmt3b

Aberrant gene silencing accompanied by DNA methylation is associated with neoplastic progression in many tumors that also show global loss of DNA methylation. Using conditional inactivation of de novo methyltransferase Dnmt3b in ApcMin/+ mice, we demonstrate that the loss of Dnmt3b has no impact on microadenoma formation, which is considered the earliest stage of intestinal tumor formation. Nevertheless, we observed a significant decrease in the formation of macroscopic colonic adenomas. Interestingly, many large adenomas showed regions with Dnmt3b inactivation, indicating that Dnmt3b is required for initial outgrowth of macroscopic adenomas but is not required for their maintenance. These results support a role for Dnmt3b in the transition stage between microadenoma formation and macroscopic colonic tumor growth and further suggest that Dnmt3b, and by extension de novo methylation, is not required for maintaining tumor growth after this transition stage has occurred.
Serotonin Mediates Learning-Induced Potentiation of Excitability

Sensitization potentiates excitability in an interneuron, the S-cell, that is critical for this form of learning in the whole-body shortening reflex of the medicinal leech. Serotonin (5-HT) also in...
Tissue interactions in plant development

The importance of inductive phenomena in the development of new tissues and organs in animal development has long been known. Genetic experiments in plants, involving the creation of plants with distinctively marked cell populations, are now establishing the existence and importance of induction during the development of plants as well.
Critical factors for success in an introductory astronomy class

A number of researchers suggest that a student's learning preference curve can be an effective predictor of student success in a particular course. Others suggest that cognitive development, as measured by a student's development of learning and study strategies, may be more relevant. Still others suggest that preconceived notions of science and astronomy may be more useful yet. In this paper we explore the critical factors in each of these areas as they relate to student success in an introductory astronomy class. In this study, 65 students were given the visual, aural, read/write, and kinesthetic learning style inventory (VARK), the learning and studies strategies inventory (LASSI), and the astronomy diagnostic test (ADT). Results of these inventories along with gender, age, and previous academic performance were correlated with overall classroom performance. A step-wise regression analysis was then performed to determine the most critical factors that affect student performance in this area.
SULIMAN BASHEAR, Arabs and Others in Early Islam, Studies in Late Antiquity and Early Islam 8 (Princeton, N.J.: Darwin Press, 1997). Pp. 169. $32 cloth.

The earliest period of Islamic thought has emerged as a major focus of contemporary scholarship during the past few decades, with a variety of techniques—ranging from historical documentation and historiographical analysis to narrative reconstruction and source criticism—being applied to comprehend more accurately the ideas and events that fueled the rise of Muslim societies in the Middle East. Suliman Bashear has made a fascinating addition to the writing that has emerged from this scholarly quest to configure the Middle Eastern Muslim past. The book under review probes available early Arabic literature, largely on its own terms and occasionally in relation to later Arabic writings, to determine the great complexity of Arab, Muslim, and Arab–Muslim views about themselves and about members of other communities during and shortly after the 7th century. Bashear's work also endeavors to trace how such views changed over the next few centuries. At the same time, however, the book is difficult to appreciate fully. Each chapter involves mainly the analysis of a series of hadith (and, to a lesser extent, tafsir and akhbar) linked together by general themes, with little contextual framework or broader discussion of the issues' significance. As a result, the considerable erudition and informative detail that permeates this book provide disparate nuggets of knowledge that, when taken together, fall short of providing the reader with a clear overall notion of how and why the earliest Muslims perceived themselves and others in particular ways.
Off-axis refractive mass-transported gallium-phosphide microlens array for the reduction of distortion in an optical interconnect system

Mass-transport smoothing has been used to fabricate an array of off-axis gallium-phosphide microlenses for use in an optical interconnection system employing a single macroscopic lens to image an array of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSEL’s) onto a detector array. Steering the individual VCSEL beams through the center of the relay lens creates an optical system with low distortion.
Optimization models and algorithms: an emerging technology for the motor carrier industry

Optimization models and algorithms for transportation are reviewed with the intent the providing lay management with at least a feeling of the range of technologies that are available and a sense of the strengths and weaknesses of each. The different types of applications of optimization to transportation that have evolved are described, and it is indicated how different methods are suited to different types of problems. Special attention is given to real-time optimization for truckload motor carriers. An interactive graphic simulation system, called MIDAS (micro dispatch and simulation), that was developed for demonstrating optimization methods is reported. It allows the user to compete against the optimization model in a real-time framework. >
The New Politics of Consumption: Promoting Sustainability in the American Marketplace

This article considers the recent history of sustainable consumption in the United States. The authors first review the policies established during the last three presidential terms, noting that the concept currently is all but nonexistent at the level of the national government. However, there are signs that individual states are moving toward fragile acceptance of some of the core tenets of sustainability. The authors consider how a political agenda designed to highlight the adverse impacts of consumerism has failed to take root in the country. The authors then outline the activities that are occurring that are broadly consistent with the aims of sustainable consumption. They consider these activities in three categories: social and political protest campaigns, lifestyle reinventions, and public policy initiatives. Lifestyle reinventions include voluntary simplicity, ethical consumption, and the slow food movement. The authors note that concerns about consumerism do not stem from environmental concerns, but instead evolve out of public unease regarding such issues as working hours, leisure time, and family life. The authors question whether the common range of concepts associated with sustainable consumption accurately captures the political initiatives in the United States designed to forge a link between declining well-being and mass consumption. It is difficult to imagine an American political administration, regardless of party affiliation, embracing a meaningful program to move the country toward alternative modes of consumption. The economic risks are simply too high and the political payoffs too elusive.
Beyond Sweet Taste: Saccharin, Sucrose, and Polycose Differ in Their Effects Upon Morphine-Induced Analgesia

The effects of saccharin, sucrose, or Polycose intake on morphine-induced analgesia (MIA) were examined in 40 adult male Long-Evans rats. Rats were tested for MIA on a tail-flick apparatus following acute (5-h) and chronic (3-wk) intake of a 0.15% saccharin solution, a 32% sucrose solution, a 33.68% Polycose solution, or water. During the chronic phase, all rats were given a choice between the test solution and water. Morphine sulfate was administered according to a cumulative dosing procedure beginning with 2.5 mg/kg morphine. The same dose was administered every 30 min. Tail-flick latencies were measured immediately prior to injections and 30 min following each injection. After acute intake of flavored solutions or water, there were no differences in MIA as a function of diet. However, after drinking the flavored solutions or water for three weeks rats drinking Polycose or sucrose showed significantly enhanced MIA relative to rats drinking saccharin. Rats drinking Polycose also showed enhanced MIA relative to rats drinking water. Comparison between the acute and chronic phases of the study demonstrated that tolerance to morphine's analgesic effects did not develop in rats drinking Polycose or sucrose, but did develop in rats drinking saccharin or water. The results support the hypothesis that, in addition to palatability, the nutritive value of flavored solutions influences MIA.
SAD---a normalized structural alignment database: improving sequence--structure alignments

Motivation: We present a structural alignment database that is specifically targeted for use in derivation and optimization of sequence--structure alignment algorithms for homology modeling. We have paid attention to ensure that fold-space is properly sampled, that the structures involved in alignments are of significant resolution (better than 2.5 A) and the alignments are accurate and reliable. Results: Alignments have been taken from the HOMSTRAD, BAliBASE and SCOP-based Gerstein databases along with alignments generated by a global structural alignment method described here. In order to discriminate between equivalent alignments from these different sources, we have developed a novel scoring function, Contact Alignment Quality score, which evaluates trial alignments by their statistical significance combined with their ability to reproduce conserved three-dimensional residue contacts. The resulting non-redundant, unbiased database contains 1927 alignments from across fold-space with high-resolution structures and a wide range of sequence identities. Availability: The database can be interactively queried either over the web at http://abagyan.scripps.edu/lab/web/sad/show.cgi or by using MySQL, and is also available to download over the web.
Functional analysis of four neuropeptides, EH, ETH, CCAP and bursicon, and their receptors in adult ecdysis behavior of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum

Ecdysis behavior in arthropods is driven by complex interactions among multiple neuropeptide signaling systems. To understand the roles of neuropeptides and their receptors in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, we performed systemic RNA interference (RNAi) experiments utilizing post-embryonic injections of double-stranded (ds) RNAs corresponding to ten gene products representing four different peptide signaling pathways: eclosion hormone (EH), ecdysis triggering hormone (ETH), crustacean cardioactive peptide (CCAP) and bursicon. Behavioral deficiencies and developmental arrests occurred as follows: RNAi of (1) eh or eth disrupted preecdysis behavior and prevented subsequent ecdysis behavior; (2) ccap interrupted ecdysis behavior; and (3) bursicon subunits resulted in wrinkled elytra due to incomplete wing expansion, but there was no effect on cuticle tanning or viability. RNAi of genes encoding receptors for those peptides produced phenocopies comparable to those of their respective cognate neuropeptides, except in those cases where more than one receptor was identified. The phenotypes resulting from neuropeptide RNAi in Tribolium differ substantially from phenotypes of the respective Drosophila mutants. Results from this study suggest that the functions of neuropeptidergic systems that drive innate ecdysis behavior have undergone significant changes during the evolution of arthropods.
Nomogram for calculation of concentration for colorimetric systems in which absorbance decreases linearly as concentration increases.

A nomogram is presented for use in calculating concentrations for colorimetric systems having an inverse linear relationship between absorbance and concentration. An example is given of its use for the calculation of glucose concentration. The nomogram is sufficiently accurate for clinical use, and can be rapidly used.
A Review of: Friendship Fictions: The Rhetoric of Citizenship in the Liberal Imaginary, by Michael A. Kaplan

Joining the recent bevy of books about liberalism, Michael Kaplan's first book, Friendship Fictions: The Rhetoric of Citizenship in the Liberal Imaginary, adds critical/cultural media studies, deco...
Review of Microscale Magnetic Power Generation

This paper discusses the history, current state of the art, and ongoing challenges for compact (less than a few cubic centimeters) magnetic power generation systems in the microwatts to tens of watts power range. These systems are of great interest for powering sensor networks, robotics, wireless communication systems, and other portable electronics. The paper considers the following topics. 1) The theoretical and practical implications of miniaturizing magnetic power generators. 2) The design and performance of previously demonstrated devices, which are summarized and compared. 3) Ongoing challenges for implementation, including integrated high-performance hard magnetic materials, microscale core laminations, low-friction bearings, high-speed rotor dynamics, and compact, high-efficiency power converters.
How to avoid recurrence in Lichtenstein tension-free hernioplasty

The following key principles of the Lichtenstein tension-free hernioplasty can help avoid recurrence and decrease postoperative pain: (1) Use a large sheet of mesh that will extend approximately 2 cm medial to the pubic tubercle, 3 to 4 cm above Hesselbach's triangle, and 5 to 6 cm lateral to the internal ring. (2) Cross the tails of the mesh behind the spermatic cord to avoid recurrence lateral to the internal ring. (3) Secure the mesh with two interrupted sutures on the upper edge and one continuous suture with no more than 3 to 4 passes on the lower edge of the mesh to prevent folding and movement of the mesh in the groin. (4) Position the mesh in a slightly relaxed dome shape configuration to counteract the forward protrusion of the transversalis fascia when the patient stands up from the intraoperative supine position. (5) Identify and protect the ilioinguinal, iliohypogastric, and genital nerves throughout the operation.
Comparison of size and morphological measurements of coarse mode dust particles from Africa

[1] A multitude of sensitivity studies in the literature point to the importance of proper chemical and morphological characterization of particles when the radiative impacts of airborne dusts are modeled. However, the community data set is based on heterogeneous measurement methods relying on varying aerodynamic, chemical, morphological, and optical means. During the Puerto Rico Dust Experiment, size distributions of dust particles from Africa were measured using a variety of aerodynamic, optical, and geometric means. Consistent with the literature, comparisons of these size distributions showed quite dissimilar results. “Measured” volume median diameters varied from 2.5 to 9 μm for various geometric, aerodynamic, optical, and optical inversion methods. Aerodynamic systems showed mixed performance. Column integrated size distributions inverted from AERONET Sun/sky radiance data produced somewhat reasonable results in the coarse mode when given proper constraints and taken in the proper context. The largest systematic errors were found in optical particle counters due to insensitivities to particle size in the 4–10 μm region with further complications due to dust particle morphology and index of refraction issues. As these methods can produce quite dissimilar size distributions, considerable errors in calculated radiative properties can occur if incorrectly modeled into dust parameters. None of the methods compared in this study can adequately reproduce the measured mass extinction or mass scattering efficiency of the dust using spherical geometry methods. Given all of the uncertainties in the sizing methods, we promote the use of fundamental and quantifiable descriptors of particles such as mass as a function of aerodynamic diameter.
Effect of MnO on Sintering and Microstructure of Al2O3-MgO-CaO Refractories

In the current study, Al2O3-MgO-CaO refractories were prepared at 1400–1600°Cby the addition of MnO micro-powders, and the effect of MnO addition on densification behavior of the refractory was discussed. The results showed that the doped MnO dissolved to MgAl2O4 phase, and promoted the growth of MgAl2O4 grains by the formation of MgAl2O4 solid solution. As a result, the dense microstructure was obtained, with the apparent porosity decreased from 19.2% to 5.4% and the bulk density increased from 2.78g/cm3 to 3.15g/cm3 after firing at 1600°C for 2h by the addition of 4% MnO. In addition, a texture microstructure was observed, which is considered to be favorable to improve mechanical properties and the service life of Al2O3-MgO-CaO system refractories.
Analysis of Aurora's Performance Simulation Engine for Three Systems

Aurora Solar Inc. is building a cloud-based optimization platform to automate the design, engineering, and permit generation process of solar photovoltaic (PV) installations. They requested that the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) validate the performance of the PV system performance simulation engine of Aurora Solar’s solar design platform, Aurora. In previous work, NREL performed a validation of multiple other PV modeling tools 1, so this study builds upon that work by examining all of the same fixed-tilt systems with available module datasheets that NREL selected and used in the aforementioned study. Aurora Solar set up these three operating PV systems in their modeling platform using NREL-provided system specifications and concurrent weather data. NREL then verified the setup of these systems, ran the simulations, and compared the Aurora-predicted performance data to measured performance data for those three systems, as well as to performance data predicted by other PV modeling tools.
Synthesis of Adjustable Linkages for Precise Path Generation Using the Optimal Pivot Adjustment

Regular nonadjustable four-bar linkages can only generate the desired continuous paths approximately. The whole desired continuous path can be generated precisely by an adjustable four-bar linkage with the one-degree-of-freedom adjustment of the pivot location of the driven side link. In this paper, an adjustment R joint is used to adjust the pivot location of the driven side link in the four-bar linkage. A closed-loop 5R linkage is formed by the adjustable four-bar linkage. The linkage feasibility conditions and path generation flexibilities of the adjustable four-bar linkages are analyzed. The synthesis model of the adjustable four-bar linkages is set up based on the required optimal adjustment of the pivot location when the desired continuous path is precisely generated. The global optimal solution is searched by a genetic algorithm in which the involved constraints are handled using the function penalty method. The effectiveness of the synthesis approach proposed in the paper is verified by two demonstrated examples.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
A magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent capable of detecting hydrogen peroxide.

The redox-active ligand N-(2-hydroxy-5-methylbenzyl)-N,N′,N′-tris(2-pyridinylmethyl)-1,2-ethanediamine (Hptp1) was prepared and complexed to manganese(II). The isolated [Mn(Hptp1)(MeCN)]2+ serves as a magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent, with an r1 value comparable to those of other mononuclear gadolinium(III) and manganese(II) complexes. The metal and ligand are stable in aerated aqueous solutions, but the addition of H2O2 causes the complex to oxidatively couple to itself through a bimolecular reaction involving the phenol groups of two Hptp1 ligands. The binuclear product is less paramagnetic per manganese(II) than its mononuclear precursor, lowering the measured r1 per manganese(II). The manganese(II) complex with Hptp1 can thereby serve as a sensor for oxidative stress.
Characterizing Adults Receiving Primary Medical Care in New York City: Implications for Using Electronic Health Records for Chronic Disease Surveillance

INTRODUCTION Electronic health records (EHRs) from primary care providers can be used for chronic disease surveillance; however, EHR-based prevalence estimates may be biased toward people who seek care. This study sought to describe the characteristics of an in-care population and compare them with those of a not-in-care population to inform interpretation of EHR data. METHODS We used data from the 2013-2014 New York City Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NYC HANES), considered the gold standard for estimating disease prevalence, and the 2013 Community Health Survey, and classified participants as in care or not in care, on the basis of their report of seeing a health care provider in the previous year. We used χ(2) tests to compare the distribution of demographic characteristics, health care coverage and access, and chronic conditions between the 2 populations. RESULTS According to the Community Health Survey, approximately 4.1 million (71.7%) adults aged 20 or older had seen a health care provider in the previous year; according to NYC HANES, approximately 4.7 million (75.1%) had. In both surveys, the in-care population was more likely to be older, female, non-Hispanic, and insured compared with the not-in-care population. The in-care population from the NYC HANES also had a higher prevalence of diabetes (16.7% vs 6.9%; P < .001), hypercholesterolemia (35.7% vs 22.3%; P < .001), and hypertension (35.5% vs 26.4%; P < .001) than the not-in-care population. CONCLUSION Systematic differences between in-care and not-in-care populations warrant caution in using primary care data to generalize to the population at large. Future efforts to use primary care data for chronic disease surveillance need to consider the intended purpose of data collected in these systems as well as the characteristics of the population using primary care.
Examining Aviation Navigation Display Symbology in Visual Search

This paper investigates properties of air traffic glyphs that may affect speed and accuracy when a navigation display is being searched. Four of these properties were explored: (a) the amount of information represented, (b) the number of aircraft displayed, (c) the amount of information accessed, and (d) the specific set of features representing the information. Two target detection experiments were conducted to measure speed and accuracy. Findings indicate that, generally, increases in the first three items negatively affect speed and accuracy. Furthermore, graphical features tend to be identified faster and more accurately than text-based features.
Mathematical Enargeia: The Rhetoric of Early Modern Mathematical Notation

This article proposes and explicates a rhetorical model for the function of notational writing in sixteenth- and seventeenth-century European mathematics. Drawing on enargeia 9s requirement that both author and reader contribute to the full realization of a text, mathematical enargeia enables the transformation of images of mathematical imagination resulting from an encounter with mathematical writing into further written acts of mathematical creation. Mathematical enargeia provides readers with an ability to understand a text as if they created it themselves. Within the period9s dominant reading of classical geometry as a synthetic presentation that suppressed, hid, or obscured analytic mathematical reality, notational mathematics found favor as a rhetorically unmediated expression of mathematical truth. Consequently, mathematical enargeia creates an operational and presentational link between mathematics9 past and its future.
The Countercultural Gnostic: Turning the World Upside Down and Inside Out

Because the gnostic heresy is a social construction imposed by the early Catholics on religious people they identified as transgressors of Christianity, scholars are entertaining the idea that ancient gnostics were actually alternative Christians. While gnostics may have been made into heretics by the early Catholics, this does not erase the fact that gnostics were operating in the margins of the conventional religions with a countercultural perspective that upset and overturned everything from traditional theology, cosmogony, cosmology, anthropology, hermeneutics, scripture, religious practices, and lifestyle choices. Making the gnostic into a Christian only imposes another grand narrative on the early Christians, one which domesticates gnostic movements. Granted, the textual evidence for the interface of the gnostic and the Christian is present, but so is the interface of the gnostic and the Greek, the gnostic and the Jew, the gnostic and the Persian, and the gnostic and the Egyptian. And the interface looks to have all the signs of transgression, not conformity. Understanding the gnostic as a spiritual orientation toward a transcendent God beyond the biblical God helps us handle this kind of diversity and transgression. As such, it survives in the artifacts that gnostics and their opponents have left behind, artifacts that help orient religious seekers to make sense of their own moments of ecstasy and revelation.
Spectral Radius as a Measure of Variation in Node Degree for Complex Network Graphs

The spectral radius of a network graph is the largest Eigen value of the adjacency matrix of the graph. We hypothesize the spectral radius to be a measure of the variation in the degrees of the nodes. In this pursuit, we define a metric called the spectral radius ratio for node degree as the ratio of the spectral radius to the average node degree. We validate our hypothesis by determining this metric on some of the commonly studied classical large real-world complex network graphs (undirected) for network analysis. Based on the results collected, we observe the spectral radius ratio for node degree to be positively correlated (correlation coefficient: 0.75) to the coefficient of variation in node degree (the ratio of the average node degree to the standard deviation in node degree), thus confirming our hypothesis.