cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Error Analysis and Propagation in Metabolomics Data Analysis.

Error analysis plays a fundamental role in describing the uncertainty in experimental results. It has several fundamental uses in metabolomics including experimental design, quality control of experiments, the selection of appropriate statistical methods, and the determination of uncertainty in results. Furthermore, the importance of error analysis has grown with the increasing number, complexity, and heterogeneity of measurements characteristic of ‘omics research. The increase in data complexity is particularly problematic for metabolomics, which has more heterogeneity than other omics technologies due to the much wider range of molecular entities detected and measured. This review introduces the fundamental concepts of error analysis as they apply to a wide range of metabolomics experimental designs and it discusses current methodologies for determining the propagation of uncertainty in appropriate metabolomics data analysis. These methodologies include analytical derivation and approximation techniques, Monte Carlo error analysis, and error analysis in metabolic inverse problems. Current limitations of each methodology with respect to metabolomics data analysis are also discussed.
BOUNDS ON BLOCK DIAGONAL PRECONDITIONING

We consider the preconditioned conjugate gradient (PCG) method for solving the linear equations derived from difference approximations to the Laplace operator on 1D line, 2D square or 3D cube domains. If the preconditioner is a block diagonal matrix obtained from cutting the original domain by lines or planes, we can End an upper bound for the condition number of the preconditioned system. For several different parallel machine models, we derive the optimal number of processors to achieve the best asymptotic run time.
Laparoscopic Restorative Proctocolectomy for Ulcerative Colitis

Laparoscopic restorative proctocolectomy is becoming more frequently employed in the surgical treatment of ulcerative colitis. The technique was first described in the early 1990s and has grown in acceptance. Multiple studies confirm that laparoscopic restorative proctocolectomy is safe and delivers a functional result equivalent to the result of an operation performed though a conventional midline incision. Patients value the superior cosmetic result of a laparoscopic restorative proctocolectomy. Hand-assisted techniques and tissue-sealant devices have enabled more surgeons to perform the operation and encouraged operative times to decrease. Laparoscopic subtotal colectomy for severe colitis has been demonstrated to be safe.
Perceptions of role stress by boundary role persons : an empirical investigation

Salespeople/professional change agents (PCAs) interact regularly with purchasing professionals/boundary role persons (BRPs) in marketing endeavors. This article proposes and tests a model of certain hitherto unexplored antecedents and consequences of role stress among BRPs. Empirical data are drawn from 345 BRPs responding to a mail questionnaire. Study findings suggest that important antecedents of role stress among BRPs include the customer orientation of PCAs and their use of closed-influence tactics as well as perceptions of task conflict and ambiguity by BRPs. As for the consequences of role stress, role ambiguity was found to negatively affect BRP satisfaction with a PCA. Further, role stress was found to have important consequences for BRP satisfaction with organizational policies. Implications for role theory and for future research are discussed.
Interconnections among nuclei of the subcortical visual shell: The intergeniculate leaflet is a major constituent of the hamster subcortical visual system

The intergeniculate leaflet (IGL), a major constituent of the circadian visual system, is one of 12 retinorecipient nuclei forming a "subcortical visual shell" overlying the diencephalic-mesencephalic border. The present investigation evaluated IGL connections with nuclei of the subcortical visual shell and determined the extent of interconnectivity between these nuclei. Male hamsters received stereotaxic, iontophoretic injections of the retrograde tracer, cholera toxin beta fragment, or the anterograde tracer, Phaseolus vulgaris-leucoagglutin, into nuclei of the pretectum (medial, commissural, posterior, olivary, anterior, nucleus of the optic tract, posterior limitans), into the superior colliculus, or into the visual thalamic nuclei (lateral posterior, dorsal lateral geniculate, intergeniculate leaflet, ventral lateral geniculate). Retrogradely labeled cell bodies identified nuclei with afferents projecting to the site of injection, whereas the presence of anterogradely labeled fibers with terminals revealed brain nuclei targeted by neurons at the site of injection. The IGL projects bilaterally to all nuclei of the visual shell except the lateral posterior and dorsal lateral geniculate nuclei. The IGL also has afferents from the same set of nuclei, except the nucleus of the optic tract. The extensive bilateral efferent projections distinguish IGL from the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus. The superior colliculus, commissural pretectal, olivary pretectal, and posterior pretectal nuclei also project bilaterally to the majority of subcortical visual nuclei. The IGL has a well-established role in circadian rhythm regulation, but there is as yet no known function for it in the larger context of the subcortical visual system, much of which is involved in oculomotor control.
A rewriting technique for universal polynomial invariants

This research note presents a reduction algorithm to rewrite any universal polynomial invariant of the general linear group in terms of the so-called Dickson polynomials. Our method is based on the fact that the Dickson polynomials are a finite SAGBI basis for the ring of polynomial invariants of the general linear group.
The effect of two smear layer cleansers on shear bond strength to dentin.

Abstract Prevention of microleakage and post-operative sensitivity depends upon maintenance of the integrity of the bond between the resin composite and the tooth. Removal of the dentinal smear layer allows for better bond strengths for the newer dentinal bonding agents. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the shear bond strengths of a light-cured composite to dentin treated with one proprietary and one experimental cleansing agent. Bond strengths for the teeth cleansed with the experimental cleansing agent were significantly (p
A computation for studying the formation of the relativistic electron layer in astron

Abstract In the controlled fusion experiment, Astron, relativistic electrons are injected at the end of a long cylindrical tank across an applied axial magnetic field. A rotating cylindrical sheath of electrons is formed. The self-consistent field problem is solved by integrating the time-dependent Vlasov-Maxwell equations numerically using finite-difference methods. The problem described is four dimensional and requires a large scale computing system for the solution of the difference equations.
Laparoscopic RPLND for clinical stage I nonseminomatous germ cell testicular cancer: current status

The purpose of the study was to update the current status of laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection in the treatment of clinical Stage I nonseminomatous germ cell testicular cancer. A literature search was conducted to evaluate laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) in comparison to other modalities of treatment. All treatment modalities are effective in treating clinical Stage I nonseminomatous germ cell tumors. Morbidity is the major issue that may guide treatment decisions. Laparoscopic RPLND, in its therapeutic form, may replicate open RPLND with a minimally invasive approach. Laparoscopic RPLND is an effective alternative to traditional treatment options.
The synthesis of pseudomycin C' via a novel acid promoted side-chain deacylation of pseudomycin A.

Abstract The γ hydroxyl present in the aliphatic side chain of the natural products pseudomycin A and C′ provided a unique handle for the pH dependent side-chain deacylation. Low pH reaction conditions were used to cleave the side chain with minimal degradation of the peptide core. The pseudomycin nucleus intermediate obtained from the deacylation of pseudomycin A was pivotal in the synthesis of novel side-chain analogues. A practical synthesis of a minor fermentation factor pseudomycin C′ and related analogues is reported.
Spreading Characteristics and Microscale Evaporative Heat Transfer in an Ultrathin Film Containing a Binary Mixture

Using image-analyzing interferometry, the thickness profile, in the range of δ 0 (adsorbed thickness) <δ< 3μm, at the leading edge of a moving ultrathin film with phase change, was measured for a mixture of pentane-octane and compared to that of pure pentane. An improved data-analysis procedure was used to enhance the use of the measured thickness profile. There were significant differences between these two systems, demonstrating the presence of large Marangoni interfacial shear stresses with the mixture. A control volume model was developed to evaluate the differences between the pure fluid and the mixture
Prediction and evaluation of everyday memory in neurological patients

Current research suggests that normal adults have only moderate insight or awareness of their memory functioning, although their insight is better than that of neurological patients with memory loss. Using the Self-Assessment of Laboratory Tasks (SALT), Herrmann, Grubs, Sigmundi, and Grueneich (1986) found that when normal adults had experience with specific memory tasks, they evaluated memory performance much better than they predicted it. The present research investigated the ability of neurological patients and hospitalized controls to predict and evaluate everyday memory performance using the SALT. Contrary to conventional wisdom, the neurological patients with memory loss showed awareness of loss; they reported their performance to be at a lower level than did other subjects. Also, the memory-loss patients increased their evaluation scores as much as normals; the agreement between self-assessment and actual performance was greater after performance.
An adaptation of the log-derivative method to massively parallel computers

Abstract We present a strategy for parallelization of the log-derivative quantum dynamics method suitable for smaller basis set calculations where many different energies must be examined. Parallelization of work specific to both the scattering coordinate grid and the energy grid is accomplished but all matrix manipulations are carried out on single processors. We execute this strategy for a realistic triatomic scattering problem on three parallel computers: one modestly parallel, shared-memory computer and two massively parallel, distributed-memory computers. Results show successful parallelization on the two massively parallel computers.
Thermotropic random copolyesters containing ethoxydiethyleneoxy-1,4-phenylene and ethylene terephthalate units

A series of thermotropic random copolyesters was prepared by the reaction of ethoxydiethyleneoxyhydroquinone and ethylene glycol with terephthaloyl chloride. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the flexible pendent oxyethylene group on the thermal and liquid crystalline (LC) properties of the copolyesters which were designed to form composites at the molecular level with flexible coil polyesters such as poly(ethylene terephthalate). The LC copolymers were characterized by viscosity measurements, elemental analysis, thermogravimetry (t.g.a.), d.s.c. and polarizing microscopy. The inherent viscosity as well as the temperature corresponding to the crystalline—nematic transition of the copolyesters decreased with increasing ethylene glycol content up to 60 mol% content. Beyond this composition, the viscosity values levelled off and there was an increase in the temperatures corresponding to the melting transitions. Polarizing microscopy studies revealed that the polymer melts were anisotropic and developed a nematic LC texture. At compositions beyond 60 mol% of the flexible ethylene glycol unit, a biphasic melt consisting of a predominant isotropic phase was observed.
Variability of the nitrogen surface area of hydrated cement paste

Abstract The difference between the BET specific surface areas computed from water and nitrogen adsorption isotherms of bottle hydrated cement paste were found to vanish if special techniques for drying the samples were applied. Typical features of the methods were replacement of the pore water by methyl alcohol which in turn was substituted by pentane and final drying was achieved by distillation either in vacuo or above the critical temperature. The nitrogen and water surface areas of the specially dried paste are both approximately 200 m2/g. It is suggested that the commonly observed discrepancy in surface areas is due not to deficiencies of the measuring method but to real differences evoked by the particular drying, technique applied.
TH‐A‐103‐11: Breast Density Measurement with Cone‐Beam CT and MRI: A Postmortem Study

Purpose: To investigate the feasibility of breast density quantification using a cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system with a postmortem study. Methods: Twenty pairs of postmortem breasts were imaged with a bench‐top CBCT system based on a CsI flat panel detector and an Aurora 1.5T dedicated Breast MRI system. The CT images were acquired at 50 kVp with a mean glandular dose (MGD) of approximately 3 mGy. A T1‐weighted gradient echo technique was used in MRI scans to maximize the contrast between the adipose and glandular tissues. Image processing procedures were implemented to segment the glandular tissue from adipose tissue. For CBCT images, standard histogram thresholdings based on visual assessment and automated segmentation based on a basic fuzzy c‐means (FCM) algorithm were used. For MRI images, FCM‐based clustering and the coherent local intensity clustering (CLIC) method, which estimated and removed the bias field, were used. Finally, the breast densities measured with the two systems were compared to the definitive tissue compositions obtained from chemical analysis. The linear correlation coefficient, Pearson r, was used to evaluate the two imaging modalities and the investigated image segmentation methods. Results: Both histogram thresholdings and FCM techniques used for CBCT images show excellent correlations with respect to the fibroglandular ratio (FGR) from chemical analysis, with r values of 0.964 and 0.980, respectively. The correlations of the MRI measurement were slightly worse than those from CBCT. The CLIC method successfully removed the intensity inhomogeneity induced by the bias field, and improved the r value from 0.864 to 0.915. Conclusion: CBCT can be used to accurately quantify the breast density with automated clustering algorithms. It is anticipated that CBCT may outperform breast MRI in breast density quantification due to high spatial resolution and the absence of the bias field.
The Heringen Collection of the US Geological Survey Library, Reston, Virginia

A special collection of German, Polish, and Russian language books, maps and reports in the US Geological Survey Library has an interesting and unusual history. The so-called ‘Heringen Collection’ came from Nazi Germany. Many of these items were captured from libraries, offices and even private homes as the German Army advanced into neighboring countries. In the last days of the war, these maps, reports, photos and other records were sent from the Military Geology offices in Berlin to the safety of a deep potash mineshaft in Heringen (Werra), in Hessen, Germany. A group of US Army soldiers found these lost records of the Third Reich. When removed from the Heringen mine, those records that dealt with the earth sciences, terrain analysis, military geology and other geological matters were sent to the USGS, and eventually came to reside at the USGS Library. The printed papers and books were mostly incorporated into the main collection, but a portion of the materials have never been cataloged, calendared or i...
SU-FF-T-53: A Robust Approach to IMRT Optimization

Purpose: To demonstrate the advantages of using a robust optimization methodology in IMRTtreatment planning to mitigate the effects of intra‐fraction uncertainty induced by breathing motion. Method and Materials: A robust optimization framework was developed to directly incorporate breathing uncertainty into IMRToptimization. Data for this model was obtained from four patients, totaling 95 traces of motion data gathered from an external marker. This data was used to create a “nominal” probability density function (PDF) that was used in the planning, and also “error bars,” which outlined the allowable deviations from the nominal PDF. A computer phantom was used to evaluate the robustness of an optimized beamlet solution in the situation where the realized PDF differed from the nominal (planned) one. The robust formulation was compared to two other formulations: a nominal formulation, which did not take uncertainty into account, and a margin formulation, which used an optimized margin to combat uncertainty. Results: With uncertainty in the PDF, the nominal solution led to significant hot and cold spots within the tumor. Both the robust and margin solutions were able to deliver the required dose to the tumor under the realized uncertainty, however, the robust solution did so while delivering approximately 38% less dose to the healthy tissue. More fundamentally, the robust formulation was mathematically proved to be a generalization of both the nominal and margin formulations, thus defining a “continuum of robustness” that allows the user to modulate his or her conservatism to customize treatment plans based on the case at hand. Conclusion: This work demonstrates the potential of using robust optimization in IMRTtreatment planning to improve healthy tissue sparing while maintaining tumor coverage in the presence of uncertainty, and also the flexibility afforded to the treatment planner to make suitable decisions regarding trade‐offs of conflicting objectives.
Gallstone ileus: review of forty cases.

: Forty cases of gallstone ileus are summarized in terms of incidence, physical findings and operative therapy. Vomiting with crampy abdominal pain was the chief complaint in the majority, and over half of the patients had a past history of cholecystitis or jaundice. Accuracy of preoperative diagnosis is increased if the physician has a high index of suspicion in the case of elderly patients with small-bowel obstruction of obscure etiology. Gastrografin or barium upper-gastrointestinal x-ray examinations help to outline a cholecystoduodenal fistula or obstructive stone, especially in patients with a high small-bowel obstruction. Discussion centers on three forms of surgical therapy: 1) enterotomy, 2) enterotomy with interval cholecystectomy and closure of the biliary-enteric fistula, and 3) total one-stage repair as an initial procedure. The data and observations confirm the opinion that enterotomy followed by an interval cholecystectomy, or selective total one-stage repair of the cholecystoduodenal fistula with enterotomy, are the treatments of choice in patients with gallstone ileus.
Thin film buckling as a method to explore the effect of reactive rinse treatments on the mechanical properties of resist thin films

As integrated circuit fabrication continues to advance towards the 32 nm node and below, it has become increasingly apparent that the use of ultrathin films and polymer features will be required. Though it has been widely accepted that the properties of polymers on the nanoscale can differ significantly from their bulk counterparts, the extent of such deviation is the subject of much debate and concern. Furthermore, most studies have focused on elucidating the differences in the thermal properties of micro- and nano-scale polymer films as determining the mechanical properties of ultrathin films can be somewhat cumbersome. In order to study the modulus of polymer thin films we have implemented a thin film buckling technique wherein a polymer film is floated onto a pre-strained PDMS substrate. Release of the strain, results in the buckling of the polymer film and provides the opportunity to accurately determine the modulus of polymer thin films with thicknesses down to 20 nm. This thin film buckling strategy was also used to probe the effect of thickness on the modulus of the ESCAP-1 thin films. Finally, a reactive rinse method was employed whereby the hydroxyl functional groups of the resist were cross-linked via a dicarboxylic acid using carbodiimide chemistry as a potential method to ultimately enhance lithographic patterning performance. The effect of the reactive rinse on the modulus of the ESCAP-1 thin films was analyzed and it was found that the application of the reactive rinse resulted in a clear increase in the modulus of the polymer films. Also, quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) supporting the confinement of the crosslinking agents to the surface will be discussed.
Solute-atom segregation at internal interfaces on an atomic scale: atom-probe experiments and computer simulations

Abstract This paper addresses fundamental questions concerning the determination of the chemical compositions of internal interfaces (grain boundaries)—in single-phase f.c.c. or b.c.c. binary alloys—and the relationships of the solute enhancement factor at a grain boundary to its structure. This goal is achieved utilizing three principal techniques: (i) atom-probe field-ion microscopy; (ii) transmission electron microscopy; and (iii) Monte Carlo computer simulations that utilize embedded atom method potentials for f.c.c. alloys. Atom-probe field-ion microscopy is used to determine the chemical composition of an interface, and transmission electron microscopy is employed to determine its five macroscopic degrees of freedom. The Monte Carlo simulations employ the Metropolis et al. algorithm to simulate segregation in the Pt(Au) and Pt(Ni) systems. Detailed experimental and computer simultation results are presented for grain boundaries in Pt(Au), Pt(Ni) and W(Re) primary solid-solution alloys.
Biosafety considerations of mammalian-transmissible H5N1 influenza

The ability to produce an H5N1 influenza virus that can be transmitted from human to human raises both biosecurity and biosafety concerns. After analyzing the biosafety risks of such a virus, we propose that it be handled at biosafety level 4 (BSL4) containment until and unless it becomes clear that the risks to humans and other mammals can be mitigated.
Crossing the Rubicon: New Roads Lead to Host Defense

Rubicon is a protein known to engage the Beclin-1/Vps34-PI3K/UVRAG complex and inhibit endosome and autophagosomal fusion with lysosomes. Yang et al. (2012) uncover new roles for this adaptor protein within noncanonical p22 phox or CARD9 complexes that regulate oxidative and cytokine responses in activated macrophages, respectively. Both complexes impact pathogen-specific host defense.
Adrenergic regulation of cardiac myocyte apoptosis.

The direct effects of catecholamines on cardiac myocytes may contribute to both normal physiologic adaptation and pathologic remodeling, and may be associated with cellular hypertrophy, apoptosis, and alterations in contractile function. Norepinephrine (NE) signals via alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors (AR) that are coupled to G-proteins. Pharmacologic studies of cardiac myocytes in vitro demonstrate that stimulation of beta1-AR induces apoptosis which is cAMP-dependent and involves the voltage-dependent calcium influx channel. In contrast, stimulation of beta2-AR exerts an anti-apoptotic effect which appears to be mediated by a pertussis toxin-sensitive G protein. Stimulation of alpha1-AR causes myocyte hypertrophy and may exert an anti-apoptotic action. In transgenic mice, myocardial overexpression of either beta1-AR or G(alpha)s is associated with myocyte apoptosis and the development of dilated cardiomyopathy. Myocardial overexpression of beta2-AR at low levels results in improved cardiac function, whereas expression at high levels leads to dilated cardiomyopathy. Overexpression of wildtype alpha1B-AR does not result in apoptosis, whereas overexpression of G(alpha)q results in myocyte hypertrophy and/or apoptosis depending on the level of expression. Differential activation of the members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) superfamily and production of reactive oxygen species appear to play a key role in mediating the actions of adrenergic pathways on myocyte apoptosis and hypertrophy. This review summarizes current knowledge about the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the regulation of cardiac myocyte apoptosis via stimulation of adrenergic receptors and their coupled effector pathways.
Viral sequestration of antigen subverts cross presentation to CD8 + T cells

Virus-specific CD8+ T cells (TCD8+) are initially triggered by peptide-MHC Class I complexes on the surface of professional antigen presenting cells (pAPC). Peptide-MHC complexes are produced by two spatially distinct pathways during virus infection. Endogenous antigens synthesized within virus-infected pAPC are presented via the direct-presentation pathway. Many viruses have developed strategies to subvert direct presentation. When direct presentation is blocked, the cross-presentation pathway, in which antigen is transferred from virus-infected cells to uninfected pAPC, is thought to compensate and allow the generation of effector TCD8+. Direct presentation of vaccinia virus (VACV) antigens driven by late promoters does not occur, as an abortive infection of pAPC prevents production of these late antigens. This lack of direct presentation results in a greatly diminished or ablated TCD8+ response to late antigens. We demonstrate that late poxvirus antigens do not enter the cross-presentation pathway, even when identical antigens driven by early promoters access this pathway efficiently. The mechanism mediating this novel means of viral modulation of antigen presentation involves the sequestration of late antigens within virus factories. Early antigens and cellular antigens are cross-presented from virus-infected cells, as are late antigens that are targeted to compartments outside of the virus factories. This virus-mediated blockade specifically targets the cross-presentation pathway, since late antigen that is not cross-presented efficiently enters the MHC Class II presentation pathway. These data are the first to describe an evasion mechanism employed by pathogens to prevent entry into the cross-presentation pathway. In the absence of direct presentation, this evasion mechanism leads to a complete ablation of the TCD8+ response and a potential replicative advantage for the virus. Such mechanisms of viral modulation of antigen presentation must also be taken into account during the rational design of antiviral vaccines.
Predicting effectiveness of Bayesian classification systems.

A model is presented for evaluating potential effectiveness of a Bayesian classification system using the expected value of the posterior probability for true classifications as an evaluation metric. For a given set of input parameters, the value of this complex metric is predictable from a simply computed row variance metric. Prediction equations are given for several representative sets of input parameters.
Smooth muscle cell growth factors

Abstract While the roles of the platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs) in vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) continue to be elucidated, these cells, especially in their activated ‘synthetic’ state, have also been found to express, and proliferate in response to, many of the other families of polypeptide growth factors, such as the fibroblast growth factors. Other stimulators of DNA synthesis, and particularly of SMC hypertrophy, include the vasoconstrictor hormones such as angiotensin II, as well as physical forces, especially stretch or tension. For many of these ligands, multiple receptors have been identified and their means of signal transduction are being characterized rapidly. Regulatory regions of these genes are being identified as are transcription factors. Complex post-transcriptional regulation has also been shown by the findings that some growth factors are phosphorylated, or translocated to the nucleus or the extracellular matrix. Inhibitors have also been identified. These include some prostaglandins, calcium antagonists, agonists that activate guanylate and adenylate cyclases, inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme, interferon gamma, and heparin. Future studies are likely to show that tyrosine phosphatases and recessive oncogenes also regulate growth. The existence of so many autocrine/paracrine mitogens—together with some experimental data—suggests some redundancy in the system as well as some additive effects. Redundancy may limit the efficacy of antibodies to a single growth factor to block cell proliferation. Their evolutionary conservation implies some unique roles for each growth factor but these have not been apparent from in vitro studies to date. Further insights are apt to come from the increasing recognition that growth factors have other effects—on cell attachment, migration, survival, production of extracellular matrix, thrombosis, vasoconstriction, regulation of cytokine synthesis, and inhibition of growth. Many of these effects may prove to be context-dependent, as with the case of growth inhibition by transforming growth factor-β. Studies in monolayer cultures may not obtain the same results as studies using cocultures of endothelial and smooth muscle cells, or 3-dimensional matrix cultures, organ cultures, or in the intact animal. In vivo descriptive studies of growth factors expressed in vascular embryogenesis, hypertension, atherosclerosis, acute balloon injury and thrombosis are being supplemented by interventions such as infusions with growth factors, antibodies, and toxin conjugates. These studies, and studies using transgenic mice and homologous recombination, should yield information as to mechanisms and may also suggest new therapies.
Combining low- and high-frequency loads acting on large floating structures

Abstract Loads acting on large floating structures usually consist of high-frequency and low-frequency loads. The high-frequency loads are associated with the hydroelastic behavior of the structure and excitation of the natural frequency modes. The low-frequency loads are associated with the body motion of the structure and the wave profile. In design analysis, extreme values of these loads must be combined taking into consideration the correlation between them. This paper discusses a methodology for combining the extreme loads, and proposes a simple formulation suitable for use in reliability analysis. A proposed load combination factor K was found to depend on the correlation coefficient of the two loads, the ratio of their standard deviations and the frequency content of the processes from which the loads are determined. The correlation coefficient was found to depend on the complex frequency response functions of the loads and the input wave spectrum. The paper also discusses characteristic extreme values of slightly nonlinear loads acting on large floating structures. Extreme loads may be based on a storm condition with a specified return period. Since very large floating structures are expected to have a long operational lifetime, the return period must be selected carefully. The paper discusses a method for selecting return periods based on the expected operational life of the structure and encounter probability.
"Nanoselves": NBIC and the Culture of Convergence.

The subject of this essay is NBIC convergence (nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology and cognitive science convergence). NBIC convergence is a recurring trope that is dominated by the paradigm of integration of the sciences. It is largely influenced by the considerations of social and economic impact, and it assumes positivism in the name of technological progress. The culture of NBIC convergence, including NBIC discourses, is ensconced on the borders between modernity/ postmodernity, ambition/restraint, unity/fragmentation, and rational intellect/creativity. Both the rhetoric of ambition and visionary development, and its responding calls for some level of restraint and caution, make contrasting assumptions that, however unintentionally, further polarize the debate concerning NBIC technologies. Those engaged in producing the culture, including scientists, engineers, and ethicists of convergence, consider the ramifications of these technologies for subjectivity and identity in ways that do...
Planar laser-induced fluorescence imaging of Si and SiO during pulsed laser ablation of Si

Planar laser induced fluorescence has been used to acquire time sequence images of ground-state, neutral Si and SiO during laser ablation of an Si target in vacuum and in the presence of a background gas at a fluence of 3-4 J/cm^2. The SiO images, taken in air, strongly suggest that the observed SiO is created through reaction of silicon with oxygen at the contact front as the plume expands.
Theoretical Investigation of Benzene Alkylation with Ethene over H-ZSM-5

Benzene alkylation with ethene over zeolite H-ZSM-5 has been investigated using density functional theory. Three different reaction mechanisms—two one-step schemes and one two-step scheme—have been...
A Computational Study of Oxygen Ordering in YBa2Cu3Oz and its Relation to Superconductivity

Abstract An ab initio model to study oxygen ordering in the high temperature superconductor YBa2Cu3Oz is presented. The phase diagram computed with this model contains several ordered structures and is in excellent agreement with the known experimental information. At high temperature, an orthorhombic structure transforms by a second order reaction into a tetragonal structure. At low temperature, a branching algorithm generates an infinity of ordered structures all consisting of long O–Cu–O chains. By looking at the kinetic evolution of quenched samples in a Monte Carlo simulation it was possible to clarify how annealing of the material can influence its superconducting transition temperature.
Water quality of least-impaired lakes in eastern and southern Arkansas

A three-phased study identified one least-impaired (reference) lake for each of four Arkansas lake classifications: three classifications in the Mississippi Alluvial Plain (MAP) ecoregion and a fourth classification in the South Central Plains (SCP) ecoregion. Water quality at three of the least-impaired lakes generally was comparable and also was comparable to water quality from Kansas and Missouri reference lakes and Texas least-impaired lakes. Water quality of one least-impaired lake in the MAP ecoregion was not as good as water quality in other least-impaired lakes in Arkansas or in the three other states: a probable consequence of all lakes in that classification having a designated use as a source of irrigation water. Chemical and physical conditions for all four lake classifications were at times naturally harsh as limnological characteristics changed temporally. As a consequence of allochthonous organic material, oxbow lakes isolated within watersheds comprised of swamps were susceptible to low dissolved oxygen concentrations to the extent that conditions would be limiting to some aquatic biota. Also, pH in lakes in the SCP ecoregion was <6.0, a level exceeding current Arkansas water-quality standards but typical of black water systems. Water quality of the deepest lakes exceeded that of shallow lakes. N/P ratios and trophic state indices may be less effective for assessing water quality for shallow lakes (<2 m) than for deep lakes because there is an increased exposure of sediment (and associated phosphorus) to disturbance and light in the former.
Protein crowding impedes pressure-induced unfolding of staphylococcal nuclease.

Abstract Background In the cellular environment, macromolecules occupy about 30% of a cell's volume. In this crowded environment, proteins behave very differently than in dilute solution where scientists typically study the properties of proteins. For this reason, recent studies have investigated proteins in cell-like crowded conditions so as to understand if this changes their properties. The present study was performed to examine if molecular crowding impedes the protein unfolding process that is known to occur upon the application of high pressure. Methods Crowding of staphylococcal nuclease (SNase) was induced by dissolving low concentrations of SNase in high concentrations of crowding agents (16 wt.% or 25 wt.% PEG 3000 or 16 wt.% Dextran T10). SNase unfolding was then monitored via tryptophan fluorescence as pressure was applied. Results Fluorescence spectra can be decomposed into the sum of two components indicative, respectively, of native and unfolded states, and the center of spectral mass was then used as a measure of the degree of protein unfolding. It was found that SNase unfolding as a function of pressure was impeded in crowded solutions. These results suggest that crowded environments, such as those found in the cellular cytoplasm, may also impede high-pressure protein unfolding in cells. General significance This is the first report on the effect of crowding on the pressure-induced unfolding of a protein (staphylococcal nuclease) monitored via tryptophan fluorescence.
Latino Outcome Studies in Social Work: A Review of the Literature

Objective: This article is a review of outcome studies focusing on three social work fields of service—health, substance abuse, and mental health—in which Latinos were significantly represented in the sample and interventions developed to attend to cultural factors. Method: Data were collected from a search of several English language social science indexes to identify experimental or quasi-experimental studies published between 1999 and 2005 focusing on measuring the effect of cultural adaptations of interventions with Latino populations. Results: Twenty-three studies were located and reviewed. Findings are discussed in this article. Conclusions: Most studies with positive outcomes for Latinos used some culturally tailored variation of cognitive theory in the therapeutic intervention. The authors advocate for a mixed methods approach to future studies of Latinos.
Protic Ionic Liquids: Preparation, Characterization, and Proton Free Energy Level Representation †

We give a perspective on the relations between inorganic and organic cation ionic liquids (ILs), including members with melting points that overlap around the borderline 100 °C. We then present data on the synthesis and properties (melting, boiling, glass temperatures, etc.) of a large number of an intermediate group of liquids that cover the ground between equimolar molecular mixtures and ILs, depending on the energetics of transfer of a proton from one member of the pair to the other. These proton-transfer ILs have interesting properties, including the ability to serve as electrolytes in solvent-free fuel cell systems. We provide a basis for assessing their relation to aprotic ILs by means of a Gurney-type proton-transfer free energy level diagram, with approximate values of the energy levels based on free energy of formation and pKa data. The energy level scheme allows us to verify the relation between solvent-free acidic and basic electrolytes, and the familiar aqueous variety, and to identify neutral...
Brain Activity in the Play of Dominant Strategy and Mixed Strategy Games

We conjecture that the thought processes used to solve dominant strategy games and mixed strategy games are quite distinct. Two-person games with dominant strategies can be treated as simple decision problems that involve no assessment of one’s partner. By contrast, two-person games with mixed strategies require that one think about one’s partner. We measure differences in electroencephalogram (EEG) activity while a human subject is playing two-person games. We time-lock the EEG to a common event and use the average across many trials and subjects to find an Event Related Potential (ERP) associated with the common event. The ERP is the brain’s response to events—in this case our different games. Our findings lend modest support for the idea that subjects respond to types of games differently.
Understanding the role of depression in the alcoholic

Abstract Depression is found to exist in a significant number of alcoholics. This article reviews alcoholics' expectations regarding effects of alcohol on mood, genetic links between alcoholism and depression, and the effects of treatment for alcoholism on depression. Constraints which limit the conclusions that can be drawn from the literature are examined. To further develop a more accurate understanding of the relationship between alcoholism and depression and to further insure likelihood of successful treatment, classification of alcoholics into more homogeneous subgroups, based on factors such as gender and personality differences (e.g., character vs. anxiety disorder), may be useful. Methodological problems, such as type and timing of measurement, are discussed. Finally, implications for treatment and further research are examined.
Behavioral symptoms in dementia: An update

A descriptive literature review was done to identify research conducted in both community and institutional settings and published from 1986 to 1993 on the correlates of behavioral symptoms associated with dementia. Critical appraisal and synthesis of the 40 studies revealed theoretical and methodological problems that tempered conclusions about the relationships between behavioral symptoms and the correlates under study. While direct relationships were found in studies in which relationships between behavioral symptoms and cognitive impairment and contextual factors were examined, contradictory results were found in studies of demographic and functional variables. Recommendations for research-based practice are advanced, including the development and testing of alternatives to physical and chemical restraints in the care of persons with dementia. ©1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Transcriptional Profiling of the Circulating Immune Response to Lassa Virus in an Aerosol Model of Exposure

Lassa virus (LASV) is a significant human pathogen that is endemic to several countries in West Africa. Infection with LASV leads to the development of hemorrhagic fever in a significant number of cases, and it is estimated that thousands die each year from the disease. Little is known about the complex immune mechanisms governing the response to LASV or the genetic determinants of susceptibility and resistance to infection. In the study presented here, we have used a whole-genome, microarray-based approach to determine the temporal host response in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of non-human primates (NHP) following aerosol exposure to LASV. Sequential sampling over the entire disease course showed that there are strong transcriptional changes of the immune response to LASV exposure, including the early induction of interferon-responsive genes and Toll-like receptor signaling pathways. However, this increase in early innate responses was coupled with a lack of pro-inflammatory cytokine response in LASV exposed NHPs. There was a distinct lack of cytokines such as IL1β and IL23α, while immunosuppressive cytokines such as IL27 and IL6 were upregulated. Comparison of IRF/STAT1-stimulated gene expression with the viral load in LASV exposed NHPs suggests that mRNA expression significantly precedes viremia, and thus might be used for early diagnostics of the disease. Our results provide a transcriptomic survey of the circulating immune response to hemorrhagic LASV exposure and provide a foundation for biomarker identification to allow clinical diagnosis of LASV infection through analysis of the host response.
Electroencephalographic analysis of the central action of dihydroxyphenylalanine.

Abstract 1. 1. The EEG effects of DOPA were analysed in cats, depending upon the level of brain-stem section. 2. 2. In contrast with cats with chronically implanted electrodes, gallamine-immobilized, and with encephale isole cats, in which DOPA is unable to induce profound changes in the EEG pattern and behaviour, this amino acid elicits an intense desynchronization in animals with brain-stems sectioned at the postpontine, rostropontine and collicular levels. The desynchronization is not found in hippocampus and amygdala. 3. 3. In the early period of action DOPA induces desynchronization mainly ipsilateral to hemisection at the rostropontine level. 4. 4. The observed effects of DOPA are not very dependent on its autonomic effects. 5. 5. In contrast with the mild pressor response in gallamine-immobilized cats and in preparations with the brain-stem sectioned at higher levels there is an intense increase in blood pressure and heart rate in encephale isole preparations. 6. 6. It is concluded that DOPA-induced desynchronization is probably inhibited in animals with intact neuraxes by the tonic ascending influences of the synchronizing bulbar and higher spinal structures.
Structure and function of intestinal epithelial cells from compensated small bowel following massive intestinal resection

This study was undertaken to determine cellular structure and function in hypertrophied small intestine following extensive resection. Six beagle puppies underwent 90% enterectomy at 10 weeks of age. The animals were housed with their control littermates and fed the same kennel diet. At one year of age standardized biopsies were taken from the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Tissue was immediately fixed for light and electron micrographs and stained for quantitation of 10 mucosal enzymes. Epithelial cells were isolated and incubated at 37°C in Krebs Ringers phosphate saline containing either C14-labeled alphamethyl glucose (2mM), or a radioactive amino acid (lysine, valine, or cystine at 0.565 mM). After incubation the cells were collected and the ratio of counts per ml intracellular fluid to counts per ml extracellular fluid determined. Active cellular transport of glucose and amino acids did not differ in epithelial cells from resected animals when compared with the controls. Cellular enzyme reactions in the mucosa from the enterectomized animals were histochemically normal and ultrastructure was comparable in both groups of animals. Structure and function of the epithelial cell in the enterectomized beagle does not significantly differ from the normal animal.
Fridays Are Furlough Days The Impact of Furlough Policy and Strategies for Human Resource Management During a Severe Economic Recession

Recently, many state and local governments have implemented furloughs as a major strategy to deal with budget crises. Furloughs are often used as a temporary tool by which organizations try to save...
Semantic Tolerance Modeling

A significant amount of research efforts has been given to explore the mathematical basis for 3D dimensional and geometric tolerance representation, analysis, and synthesis. However, engineering semantics is not maintained in these mathematic models. It is hard to interpret calculated numerical results in a meaningful way. In this paper, a new semantic tolerance modeling scheme based on modal interval is introduced to improve interpretability of tolerance modeling. With logical quantifiers, semantic relations between tolerance specifications and implications of tolerance stacking are embedded in the mathematic model. The model captures the semantics of physical property difference between rigid and flexible materials as well as tolerancing intents such as sequence of specification, measurement, and assembly. Compared to traditional methods, the semantic tolerancing allows us to estimate true variation ranges such that feasible and complete solutions can be obtained.Copyright © 2006 by ASME