cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Systems Analysis and Design: An Active Approach

This new book provides a concise text that teaches students first how to identify the problem, before analyzing and designing a solution. Marakas applies the structure method of SA&D with some coverage of object-oriented methods as an alternative. This text is accompanied by a web-based case simulation option that provides a realistic experience for students while automating administration for the instructor. Table of contents Marakas, Systems Analysis & Design: An Active Approach, 1/e Chapter 1 The Systems Development Environment Chapter 2 So What is the Problem? Chapter 3 Identification and Slelction of Development Projects Chapter 4 Systems Requirements Determination Chapter 5 Modeling the Processes and Logic Chapter 6 Modeling the Data: Conceptual and Logical Data Modeling Chapter 7 Case Tools and Joint and Rapid Application Development Chapter 8 Moving from Analysis to Design Chapter 9 Designing Systems for Diverse Environments Chapter 10 Designing the Files and Databases Chapter 11 Designing the System Output Chapter 12 Designing the Inputs and User Interface Chapter 13 Designing the Systems Internals Chapter 14 Implementing and Maintaining the System Appendix A Project Management: Process, Techniques, and Tools Appendix B Object-Oriented Analysis and Design
One Size Doesn't Fit All: Measuring Individual Privacy in Aggregate Genomic Data

Even in the aggregate, genomic data can reveal sensitive information about individuals. We present a new model-based measure, PrivMAF, that provides provable privacy guarantees for aggregate data (namely minor allele frequencies) obtained from genomic studies. Unlike many previous measures that have been designed to measure the total privacy lost by all participants in a study, PrivMAF gives an individual privacy measure for each participant in the study, not just an average measure. These individual measures can then be combined to measure the worst case privacy loss in the study. Our measure also allows us to quantify the privacy gains achieved by perturbing the data, either by adding noise or binning. Our findings demonstrate that both perturbation approaches offer significant privacy gains. Moreover, we see that these privacy gains can be achieved while minimizing perturbation (and thus maximizing the utility) relative to stricter notions of privacy, such as differential privacy. We test PrivMAF using genotype data from the Welcome Trust Case Control Consortium, providing a more nuanced understanding of the privacy risks involved in an actual genome-wide association studies. Interestingly, our analysis demonstrates that the privacy implications of releasing MAFs from a study can differ greatly from individual to individual. An implementation of our method is available at http://privmaf.csail.mit.edu.
SU-E-T-664: Radiobiological Modeling of Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation in Mice

Purpose: Prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) is a clinical technique used to reduce the incidence of brain metastasis and improve overall survival in select patients with ALL and SCLC, and we have shown the potential of PCI in select breast cancer patients through a mouse model (manuscript in preparation). We developed a computational model using our experimental results to demonstrate the advantage of treating brain micro-metastases early. Methods: MATLAB was used to develop the computational model of brain metastasis and PCI in mice. The number of metastases per mouse and the volume of metastases from four- and eight-week endpoints were fit to normal and log-normal distributions, respectively. Model input parameters were optimized so that model output would match the experimental number of metastases per mouse. A limiting dilution assay was performed to validate the model. The effect of radiation at different time points was computationally evaluated through the endpoints of incidence, number of metastases, and tumor burden. Results: The correlation between experimental number of metastases per mouse and the Gaussian fit was 87% and 66% at the two endpoints. The experimental volumes and the log-normal fit had correlations of 99% and 97%. In the optimized model, the correlation between number of metastases per mouse and the Gaussian fit was 96% and 98%. The log-normal volume fit and the model agree 100%. The model was validated by a limiting dilution assay, where the correlation was 100%. The model demonstrates that cells are very sensitive to radiation at early time points, and delaying treatment introduces a threshold dose at which point the incidence and number of metastases decline. Conclusion: We have developed a computational model of brain metastasis and PCI in mice that is highly correlated to our experimental data. The model shows that early treatment of subclinical disease is highly advantageous.
Nucleophilic Acylation with Disodium Tetracarbonylferrate: Methyl 7‐Oxoheptanoate and Methyl 7‐Oxoöctanoate

Nucleophilic Acylation with Disodium Tetracarbonylferrate: Methyl 7-Oxoheptanoate and Methyl 7-Oxooctanoate intermediate: Disodium tetracarbonylferrate sesquidioxanate product: Methyl 7-oxoheptanoate product: Methyl 7-oxooctanoate reactant: Methyl 6-bromohexanoate Keywords: acylation; esterification, of substituted monobasic acids; reduction, miscellaneous; dioxane; disodium tetracarbonylferrate sesquidioxanate; hexane; methyl 6-bromohexanoate, preparation of; N-methylpyrrolidinone; nitrogen, oxygen-free, preparation of; tetrahydrofuran; carbon monoxide; iron pentacarbonyl; methyl iodide; apparatus, for removal of supernatant solvent under inert atmosphere
The automation of introductory computer science courses

In response to a large (currently 2000 students per semester) and increasing enrollment in introductory computer science courses, we have started a project to automate these courses on the PLATO IV Computer-Based Education system at the University of Illinois. The key components of our automated course are:1. a library of lessons, covering several programming languages, computing techniques, and application areas2. a completely self-contained interactive programming system for the preparation, execution and debugging of programs written by students in any of the languages covered by the lessons3. a conversational advice-giving and information retrieval system to guide the student through the library of lessons, based on his goals and past performance.The goals and current status of this project are described.
Corrective consensus with asymmetric wireless links

Consensus algorithms can be used to compute an average value across a multi-hop network in a distributed way. However, their convergence to the right value is not guaranteed in the presence of random packet losses that are common in real life low-power wireless networks. Corrective consensus solves this problem by using a set of auxiliary variables to compensate for the asymmetric state updates caused by packet losses. Nevertheless, one key assumption is that the probability of delivering a packet from node i to a neighboring node j is the same as in the reverse direction, from j to i. This assumption might be violated in real life conditions. Our main contribution is showing that corrective consensus converges to the correct average even when this assumption is removed. In addition, we provide a heuristic for modifying the weights used by corrective consensus that specifically considers the unequal probabilities, and we empirically show that this choice can lead to faster convergence.
Effects of neutral salts on the circular dichroism spectra of ribonuclease a and ribonuclease s

The circular dichroism (CD) spectra of ribonuclease A, ribonuclease S, and N-acetyltyrosineamide were recorded as a function of pH in the presence of various concentrations of inorganic salts. Above pH 9.0 salting-in of tyrosine residues increases their intramolecular associations. This association enhances the contribution from these residues to the CD spectrum leading to an apparent titration curve that is shifted toward lower pH. The data indicate that unfolding of ribonuclease A and S by inorganic salts does not begin with disrupting existing electrostatic interactions. But, as the unfolding process progresses, disruption of electrostatic interactions may take place. This is consistent with our previous calorimetric studies which suggest that unfolding of ribonuclease A by salts proceeds initially by energetically favorable solvation of the folded protein. An increase in ellipiticity at 275 nm of partially unfolded protein in salt was observed as the pH was changed from 7.0 to 4.0. This observation may suggest that the isothermal unfolding of the protein by salts at low pH proceeds through an intermediate step which involves histidine residues and causes a conformational change in the tyrosine's asymmetric environment.
Obesity and Medicare Expenditure: Accounting for Age-Related Height Loss

To determine the relationship between BMI and Medicare expenditure for adults 65-years and older and determine whether this relationship changes after accounting for misclassification due to age-related height loss. Using a cross sectional study design, the relationship between BMI and fee-for-service Medicare expenditure was examined among beneficiaries who completed the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS) in 2002, were not enrolled in Medicare Health Maintenance Organization, had a self-reported height and weight, and were 65 and older (n = 7,706). Subjects were classified as underweight, normal weight, overweight, obese (obese I), and severely obese (obese II/III). To adjust BMI for the artifactual increase associated with age-related height loss, the reported height was transformed by adding the sex-specific age-associated height loss to the reported height in MCBS. The main outcome variable was total Medicare expenditure. There was a significant U-shaped pattern between unadjusted BMI and Medicare expenditure: underweight $4,581 (P < 0.0003), normal weight $3,744 (P < 0.0000), overweight $3,115 (reference), obese I $3,686 (P < 0.0039), and obese II/III $4,386 (P < 0.0000). This pattern persisted after accounting for height loss: underweight $4,640 (P < 0.0000), normal weight $3,451 (P < 0.0507), overweight $3,165 (reference), obese I $3,915 (P < 0.0010), and obese II/III $4,385 (P < 0.0004) compared to overweight. In older adults, minimal cost is not found at "normal" BMI, but rather in overweight subjects with higher spending in the obese and underweight categories. Adjusting for loss-of-height with aging had little affect on cost estimates.
Epitaxial crystallization of poly (γ-benzyl L-glutamate) on alkali halide single crystals.

Single crystals of poly(γ-benzyl L-glutamate) were formed by epitaxial crystallization from solution in mesitylene on NaCl, KI, and KCl (001) cleavage faces. From electron microscopy and diffraction studies, the structure of these overgrowths was determined to be that of lamellae containing chain-folded α-helical macromolecules. The usual type of crystal perfection, that of ordered helix axes and disordered side groups, was exhibited by this synthetic polypeptide. Unique orientation regimes were observed with each substrate.
Use of patient-administered shock to suppress hallucinations1

A schizophrenic patient who complained of disturbing hallucinatory voices was given a portable shock device with instructions to administer self-shock at the onset of the voices. The patient kept a written record of shock uses and voice appearances. Frequency of shock use and reported hallucinations declined to zero over several days. Subsequently the therapist removed the device. Voices did not return for the duration of the study but reappeared after the patient's discharge from the hospital. The results suggest the value of further exploration of operant control of hallucinatory experiences.
Effect of test method and crack size on the fracture toughness of a chain-silicate glass-ceramic

The fracture toughness of a canasite glass-ceramic with a highly acicular, interlocked grain structure was measured by a number of different methods. The values at room temperature obtained by the chevron-notch, short-bar and notched-beam methods ranged from 4 to 5 M Pa m−1/2, well above literature values for other glass-ceramics. Similar values of toughness were obtained by the fracture of bars with indentation cracks introduced with loads ranging from 1.96 to 400 N, but only for crack sizes >200 μm, with lower values for cracks of smaller size. The toughness values obtained by the direct measurement of the size of the indentation cracks were appreciably lower than the values obtained by all other methods over the total range of indentation loads and corresponding crack size. SEM fractography showed that the surface within the indentation cracks was appreciably smoother than the surrounding fracture surface. The high values of fracture toughness were attributed to the combined mechanisms of crack-deflection and microcrack-toughening due to the stress-enhanced creation of microcracks caused by the residual stresses which arise from the thermal expansion anisotropy of the canasite monoclonic crystal structure. The strong negative temperature dependence of the fracture toughness suggests that at room temperature microcrack toughening represents the primary contributing mechanism to the fracture toughness. The combined effects of crack-deflection and microcrack-toughening can lead to the development of glass-ceramics with greatly improved resistance to crack propagation.
Origin of the right coronary artery from the pulmonary trunk.

Abstract Anomalous pulmonary origin of the right coronary artery (RCA) is a rare congenital cardiac malformation. Whereas patients with anomalous pulmonary origin of the left main coronary artery often present in infancy with signs of left ventricular ischemia or congestive heart failure, or both, those with anomalous origin of the RCA are usually asymptomatic. We have observed 2 patients with anomalous origin of the RCA at Children's Hospital Medical Center of Akron.
Inflammatory and immunological responses to hyaluronan preparations. Study of a murine biocompatibility model.

Background: Intra-articular injection of hyaluronan preparations is a popular treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee. Recently, clinical reports have described acute inflammatory reactions in joints following these injections. The purpose of this study was to use a murine pouch model to study the local inflammatory and possibly immunological effects of three commercially available hyaluronan-derived products. Methods: Each of three different hyaluronan products (Synvisc, Hyalgan, and Supartz) was injected into air pouches established in groups of BALB/c mice. A positive control group (with particle-induced inflammation) and a negative control group (injected with saline solution) were also included. After fourteen days, the mice were killed and the air pouches were explanted and prepared for histological evaluation of the local inflammatory reaction. The antibody response was measured with use of ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) of serum samples obtained after the mice were killed. Results: Histological analysis revealed a significant increase in total membrane cellularity (p < 0.001 to p < 0.03) after the use of all hyaluronan preparations. The increased cellularity was attributed to an inflammatory cell influx, rather than accumulation of fibroblasts, and elevated lymphocyte counts were observed in membranes stimulated by Synvisc (hylan G-F 20). The ELISA data revealed an antibody response to the Synvisc preparation. This immunological response was directed against a non-hyaluronan portion of the product, as indicated by the lack of cross-reactivity with the other hyaluronan products. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that all three hyaluronan preparations, as currently manufactured, can cause an inflammatory soft-tissue reaction, but only the non-hyaluronan portion of the Synvisc product created an immunological response. It appears likely that this component may be the target of adverse responses in patients. Clinical Relevance: Inflammatory reactions have been described in association with the use of hyaluronic acid compounds. These clinical reactions may be explained by the immune responses to the various hyaluronic compounds demonstrated in this study.
c-MYC-Independent Nuclear Reprogramming Favors Cardiogenic Potential of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells

Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPS) technology has launched a new platform in regenerative medicine aimed at deriving unlimited replacement tissue from autologous sources through somatic cell reprogramming using stemness factor sets. In this way, authentic cardiomyocytes have been obtained from iPS and recently demonstrated in proof-of-principle studies to repair infarcted heart. Optimizing the cardiogenic potential of iPS progeny would ensure a maximized yield of bioengineered cardiac tissue. Here, we reprogrammed fibroblasts in the presence or absence of c-MYC to determine if the acquired cardiogenicity is sensitive to the method of nuclear reprogramming. Using lentiviral constructs that expressed stemness factors SOX2, OCT4, and KLF4 with or without c-MYC, iPS clones generated through fibroblast reprogramming demonstrated indistinguishable characteristics for 5 days of differentiation with similar cell morphology, growth rates, and chimeric embryo integration. However, 4-factor c-MYC dependent nuclear reprogramming produced iPS progeny that consistently prolonged the expression of pluripotent Oct-4 and Fgf4 genes and repressed cardiac differentiation. In contrast, 3-factor c-MYC-less iPS clones efficiently up-regulated pre-cardiac (CXCR4, Flk-1, and Mesp1/2) and cardiac (Nkx2.5, Mef2c, and Myocardin) gene expression patterns. In fact, 3-factor iPS progeny demonstrated early and robust cardiogenesis during in vitro differentiation with consistent beating activity, sarcomere maturation, and rhythmical intracellular calcium dynamics. Thus, nuclear reprogramming independent of c-MYC enhances production of pluripotent stem cells with innate cardiogenic potential.
Library directors--the broad view.

(2000). Library Directors—The Broad View. Medical Reference Services Quarterly: Vol. 19, No. 2, pp. 51-64.
A New Species of Mermithid (Nematoda) in Chironomids Eclosing From a Northern Minnesota Bog

Hydromermis haggardi n. sp. (Nematoda: Mermithidae) is described from the hemocoel of chironomid imagos eclosing from Lake Alice Bog in northern Minnesota in June and July 2007. The species is distinguished from the other 27 described members of the genus by the subventral mouth, tulip shape to anterior end of esophagus, colorless vesicular trophosome, single nonbifurcated spicule, short body lengths of both males and females, structure of the S-shaped vagina, decrease in body width at vulva, brevity of postparasitic stage, and the greater development of a posterior ventral protractor muscle in the males. An anomalous adult male bearing large oval structures in the posterior testis is reported. Evidence is presented for the developmental interaction of the new species with Lanceimermis palustris Johnson and Kleve, 2004.
The accessory reproductive structure in the simultaneous hermaphrodite Diplectrum bivittatum

The general gonad morphology in the simultaneous hermaphrodite, Diplectrum bivittatum from the Gulf of Mexico, agrees with previously published accounts on the gonad morphology of other Diplectrum spp. In D. bivittatum there is a well developed accessory reproductive structure (ARS) which consists of a post-ovarian sinus and numerous well developed villi which project into the sinus from the sinus wall. The ARS varies seasonally: the post-ovarian sinus is reduced in February and enlarged during June, September and October when the species is reproductively active. The villi are better developed in September specimens. Two pillar-like structures within the ARS are described for the first time. Their columnar and smooth muscle cell composition suggests several possible reproductive functions.
Effect of Polyacrylamide Gel on Woody Plant Establishment in Barrier Island Swales

ABSTRACT: Increased hurricane frequency and intensity and residential and commercial development are contributing to loss of maritime forests, coastal hammocks, and scrub dunes. Barriers to natural regeneration necessitate active restoration. We evaluated the survival of woody species planted in ephemeral barrier island swales on Santa Rosa Island, Florida, in an effort to restore barrier island scrub and pine forest lost in recent hurricanes. Contractors planted sand live oak (Quercus geminata) on swale ridges, inkberry (Ilex glabra) on swale mid-slopes, and slash pine (Pinus elliottii) in swale depressions. Polyacrylamide gels are often used to increase transplant survival in the drought-prone, sandy environments. To assist us in evaluating the efficacy of these gels, contractors planted 10 plants with gel and 10 without for each swale, position, and woody species. We followed plant survival for 21 months and measured changes in plant height after one year. Polyacrylamide gel did not significantly affec...
Entrapped air effects on dipole flow test in sand tank experiments: Hydraulic conductivity and head distribution

Summary The dipole flow test (DFT) was applied to investigate the effects of entrapped air on quasi-saturated hydraulic conductivity ( K ) in a cylindrical aquifer model (sand tank). The sand tank was equipped with 58 spatially distributed piezometers and screened well to accommodate the dipole probe (DP). The experiments included tests with and without pre-saturation of the sand medium with CO 2 , a technique intended to minimize the impacts of entrapped air on K . A mathematical model was developed and applied to interpret the piezometer drawdown data. Estimation of K from DP chamber drawdowns produced good results when the medium was pre-saturated with CO 2 . However, without CO 2 pre-saturation, the effect of entrapped air was apparent from the nonlinear drawdown responses to the pumping rate. In general, the quasi-saturated K was approximately 50% of the fully saturated K .
Longitudinal versus cross-sectional methodology for estimating the economic burden of breast cancer: a pilot study.

Background: Projecting future breast cancer treatment expenditure is critical for budgeting purposes, medical decision making and the allocation of resources in order to maximise the overall impact on health-related outcomes of care. Currently, both longitudinal and cross-sectional methodologies are used to project the economic burden of cancer. This pilot study examined the differences in estimates that were obtained using these two methods, focusing on Maryland, US Medicaid reimbursement data for chemotherapy and prescription drugs for the years 1999–2000. Methods: Two different methodologies for projecting life cycles of cancer expenditure were considered. The first examined expenditure according to chronological time (calendar quarter) for all cancer patients in the database in a given quarter. The second examined only the most recent quarter and constructed a hypothetical expenditure life cycle by taking into consideration the number of quarters since the respective patient had her first claim. Results: We found different average expenditures using the same data and over the same time period. The longitudinal measurement had less extreme peaks and troughs, and yielded average expenditure in the final period that was 60% higher than that produced using the cross-sectional analysis; however, the longitudinal analysis had intermediate periods with significantly lower estimated expenditure than the cross-sectional data. Conclusions: These disparate results signify that each of the methods has merit. The longitudinal method tracks changes over time while the cross-sectional approach reflects more recent data, e.g. current practice patterns. Thus, this study reiterates the importance of considering the methodology when projecting future cancer expenditure.
Childhood trauma and neuroticism as an adult: possible implication for the development of the common psychiatric disorders and suicidal behaviour

Background. Neuroticism is an important personality dimension associated with depressive and anxiety disorders. Both genetic and social factors are thought to contribute to neuroticism. This study aims to examine whether early childhood adversity may be a determinant of neuroticism.Method. Five hundred and thirty-two abstinent substance dependent patients completed both the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) and the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ).Results. There was a significant relationship between total childhood trauma scores on the CTQ and neuroticism scores on the EPQ. There were also significant relationships between neuroticism and CTQ subscores for emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional neglect and physical neglect.Conclusions. Childhood trauma may be a determinant of neuroticism. This may be one way in which childhood trauma plays a role in the development of psychiatric disorders. General population studies are needed.
Dynamic performance model of an isometric muscle-joint unit

Abstract The dynamic performance model of the medial gastrocnemius muscle of the cat was determined when generating isometric force at its tendon and when transmitting that force across the joint. The frequency response model of the muscle and of the muscle-joint was developed by fitting the experimentally obtained gain and phase Bode plots with a best fit linear second order system determined by recursive least squares. It was shown that the muscle could be represented with double poles at 2.3 Hz and a time delay of 16 ms whereas the muscle-joint was represented with an additional pole at 1.8 Hz, a zero at 3.8 Hz and 16 ms time delay. The harmonic distortion was less than 5% for sinusoidal force output in the frequency range of 0.4–4 Hz, and a force range of 20–80% of the maximal justifying a linear system model. The model is useful in the design of a neuromuscular prosthesis, using electrical stimulation of the muscle nerves, as a rehabilitation procedure for paralysed patients due to spinal cord injury.
Did differences in mitochondrial properties influence the evolution of avian and mammalian lungs

it is remarkable that the two great classes of vertebrates that are capable of sustained high oxygen consumptions, the birds and mammals, share many similar features of physiology but have radically different lungs. One of the most obvious differences is the mode of ventilation. In birds, the
Utilization of Personal Digital Assistants (PDAS) by Pediatric and Emergency Medicine Residents

The objective of the present study was to investigate the current personal digital assistant (PDA) usage patterns of the residents and their interest in future PDA-based applications. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among the Pediatrics (Peds) and Emergency Medicine (EM) residents in an urban teaching hospital. Data points included level of training, specialty of training, experience of use of different PDA devices, use of current software applications, and interest in future applications. A total of 60/74 (81%) eligible residents participated in the study. Palm® (Palm Inc., Sunnyvale, CA) was the most commonly used operating system (82%). Among the PDA users, 82% reported using the device several times a day, and 16% used them a few times a week. The most commonly used applications included the simple calculator (81%), drug references (80%), medical calculators (75%), electronic textbooks (66%), and schedule and contact information (42%). In addition, residents showed interest in using PDA applications for procedure logs, patient tracking, and prescription writing. No significant differences were noted in the frequency and expertise of using PDAs between the Peds and EM residents (p = 0.29). Our data show current trends of use of PDAs by Peds and EM residents and their interest for future applications.
Pre-Service Elementary Teachers’ Field Experiences in Classrooms Led by Science Specialists

The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of preservice elementary teachers in a content-specific field-based experience with elementary science specialists. Data collected from electronic discussions, interviews, and observations in the field revealed preservice teachers experienced a wide range of instructional and assessment strategies in specialists’ classrooms, but failed to generalize aspects of the specialist model of science instruction to traditional models for delivery of science instruction at the elementary level. Implications for supporting preservice teachers’ learning to teach science through participation in a field experience with specialists are discussed.
TISSUE-SPECIFIC ALTERNATE SPLICING OF HUMAN TELOMERASE REVERSE TRANSCRIPTASE (HTERT) INFLUENCES TELOMERE LENGTHS DURING HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

Direct genetic manipulations have shown that telomerase-mediated telomere elongation plays a key role in determining cellular replicative capacity and senescence. The mechanisms regulating the production of an active telomerase enzyme are still predominantly unknown, although roles for transcriptional control of hTERT, alternative-splicing of hTERT transcripts, and post-translational phosphorylation of hTERT protein have been advocated. Here we show that hTERT is alternatively spliced in specific patterns by different tissue types during human development. Alternative splicing often prohibits the expression of hTERT protein containing functional reverse transcriptase domains. In these instances, telomerase activity is absent, leading to shortening of telomeres. The specific pattern of hTERT mRNA variants in human development provides evidence that alternative splicing is non-random and participates in the regulation of telomerase activity.
Fusion category algebras

The fusion system F on a defect group P of a block b of a finite group G over a suitable p-adic ring O does not in general determine the number l(b) of isomorphism classes of simple modules of the block. We show that conjecturally the missing information should be encoded in a single second cohomology class α of the constant functor with value k× on the orbit category F¯c of F-centric subgroups Q of P of b which “glues together” the second cohomology classes α(Q) of AutF¯(Q) with values in k× in K¨ulshammer-Puig [13, 1.8]. We show that if α exists, there is a canonical quasi-hereditary k-algebra F¯(b) such that Alperin’s weight conjecture becomes equivalent to the equality l(b) = l(F¯(b)). By work of Broto, Levi, Oliver [3], the existence of a classifying space of the block b is equivalent to the existence of a certain extension category L of Fc by the center functor Z. If both invariants α, L exist we show that there is an O-algebra L(b) associated with b having F¯(b) as quotient such that Alperin’s weight conjecture becomes again equivalent to the equality l(b) = l(L(b)); furthermore, if b has an abelian defect group, L(b) is isomorphic to a source algebra of the Brauer correspondent of b.
Segmentation-Based Image Coding In A Packet-Switched Network Environment

In this paper, a segmentation-based image coding technique incorporating properties of the human visual system is presented. The approach taken in this research is to first segment an image into regions with spatial similarity and then to define an efficient method for encoding the segmented image data. Furthermore, specific attention is given in this paper to defining the requirements for using a segmentation-based image coder for video transmission over a packet-switched network.© (1988) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Bioequivalence of Long Half-Life Drugs—Informative Sampling Determination—Using Truncated Area in Parallel-Designed Studies for Slow Sustained-Release Formulations

ABSTRACT A simulation study was done to determine if 72 h is the most informative sampling duration for bioequivalence (BE) determination in paralleldesigned BE studies with drugs that have half-lives of at least 30 h. The impact of absorption and elimination half-lives on informative sampling was evaluated. Two-treatment parallel-designed BE studies using a one-compartment oral absorption model with half-lives of 30 and 350 h was simulated. Area under the curve (AUC) values were truncated at 12–360 h. Experimental BE data [median time to reach the maximum concentration ( T max ) = 20 h and low clearance = 0.192 L/h) indicated a decrease and then an increase in the intrasubject variability [root mean square error (RMSE)] for truncated AUC as a function of time. Simulations supported these findings with the highest probability of passing the BE confidence interval criteria being between 60 and 96 h, depending on half-life and percent coefficient of variation. The 30-h simulation exhibited a minimum in RMSE at 24-h truncation that continued to increase up to 360 h, whereas the 350-h simulation exhibited a minimum at 60 h, which increased after 96 h. Power curves at the 350-h half-life showed higher probabilities of rejection of BE for true test/reference ratios greater than 0.9. For parallel-designed BE studies, sampling beyond 120 h will not affect the BE decision and therefore is unnecessary. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 101:4337–4346, 2012
Pilot evaluation of the text4baby mobile health program

Mobile phone technologies for health promotion and disease prevention have evolved rapidly, but few studies have tested the efficacy of mobile health in full-fledged programs. Text4baby is an example of mobile health based on behavioral theory, and it delivers text messages to traditionally underserved pregnant women and new mothers to change their health, health care beliefs, practices, and behaviors in order to improve clinical outcomes. The purpose of this pilot evaluation study is to assess the efficacy of this text messaging campaign. We conducted a randomized pilot evaluation study. All participants were pregnant women first presenting for care at the Fairfax County, Virginia Health Department. We randomized participants to enroll in text4baby and receive usual health care (intervention), or continue simply to receive usual care (control). We then conducted a 24-item survey by telephone of attitudes and behaviors related to text4baby. We surveyed participants at baseline, before text4baby was delivered to the intervention group, and at follow-up at approximately 28 weeks of baby’s gestational age. We completed 123 baseline interviews in English and in Spanish. Overall, the sample was predominantly of Hispanic origin (79.7%) with an average age of 27.6 years. We completed 90 follow-up interviews, and achieved a 73% retention rate. We used a logistic generalized estimating equation model to evaluate intervention effects on measured outcomes. We found a significant effect of text4baby intervention exposure on increased agreement with the attitude statement “I am prepared to be a new mother” (OR = 2.73, CI = 1.04, 7.18, p = 0.042) between baseline and follow-up. For those who had attained a high school education or greater, we observed a significantly higher overall agreement to attitudes against alcohol consumption during pregnancy (OR = 2.80, CI = 1.13, 6.90, p = 0.026). We also observed a significant improvement of attitudes toward alcohol consumption from baseline to follow-up (OR = 3.57, CI = 1.13 – 11.24, p = 0.029). This pilot study is the first randomized evaluation of text4baby. It is a promising program in that exposure to the text messages was associated with changes in specific beliefs targeted by the messages.
Analysis of the Effects of CRABP I Expression on the RA-Induced Transcription Mediated by Retinoid Receptors†

The involvement of cellular retinoic acid-binding protein I (CRABP I) in the RA signaling was investigated by examining its effects on the interaction of retinoid receptors (RARs and RXRs) with RA-response elements (RAREs) as well as on the RA-induced transcription mediated by retinoid receptors. Analysis of the expression of mouse CRABP I from a cDNA expression plasmid in COS-1 cells revealed that this protein was about 5-fold more abundant in cytosol than in nuclei. The identity and the localization of CRABP I in the cytoplasm as well as the nuclei were also confirmed by the immunoperoxidase staining of the transfected COS-1 cells with CRABP I-specific antibody. When the nuclear extract containing a 10-fold molar excess of CRABP I was incubated with RAR alpha extract in the presence of [3H]RA and resolved on an FPLC size-exclusion column, a 20% decrease in the bound radioactivity in the RAR alpha fraction was accompanied by a proportional increase in the CRABP I fraction. In contrast, the addition of CRABP I did not significantly affect the interaction of RAR alpha or RAR alpha-RXR alpha heterodimers with RAREs. Moreover, the coexpression of CRABP I in CV-1 cells did not markedly inhibit or enhance the transcription activated by RARs and RAR alpha-RXR alpha heterodimers under RA concentrations ranging from 10(-10) to 10(-6) M. These results demonstrate that CRABP I, while it might be important for RA homeostasis, is not directly involved in the retinoid receptor-mediated RA-signaling pathway.
Clustering sequence data using hidden Markov model representation

This paper proposes a clustering methodology, for sequence data, using hidden Markov model (HMM) representation. The proposed methodology improves upon existing HMM-based clustering methods in two ways: (i) it enables HMMs to dynamically change its model structure, to obtain a better fit model for data during the clustering process, and (ii) it provides objective criterion function, to select the optimal clustering partition. The algorithm is presented in terms of four nested levels of searches: (i) the search for the optimal number of clusters in a partition, (ii) the search for the optimal structure for a given partition, (iii) the search for the optimal HMM structure for each cluster, and (iv) the search for the optimal HMM parameters for each HMM. Preliminary results are given to support the proposed methodology.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A family of T-cell alloantigens linked to Igh-1

Tsud (ref. 1) is an alloantigen on mouse suppressor T cells, coded for by a gene downstream from the immunoglobulin locus on chromosome 122. We now report a second T-cell alloantigen, Tindd, which is closely linked to Tsud. Both antigens may be products of a family of genes coding for conserved, non-antigen binding site regions of T-cell receptors. Tindd is defined by a monoclonal BALB/c (Igh-1a) anti-C.AL-20 (Igh-1d) antibody and is expressed preferentially on Lyt 1+2−3− peripheral lymphoid cells, whereas Tsud is expressed on Lyt 1−2+3+ suppressor cells. The interpretation that these determinants represent antigen binding molecules is in part based on the antibody-mediated induction of cell function. In vivo treatment of C.AL-20 animals with anti-Tsud antiserum at day 4 suppresses the primary immune response to sheep red blood cells (SRBCs)3–5. Pretreatment with limiting dilutions of anti-Tindd antibody induces cyclic waves of either suppression or enhancement of the plaque-forming cell response. The genes coding for these determinants have now been mapped in inbred congeneic mice having recombination events in or near the immunoglobulin locus. Monoclonal anti-Tindd antibodies precipitate a group of polypeptides of molecular weights (MWs) 62,000, 45,000 and 17,000 from 35S-methionine-labelled spleen cells activated with concanavalin A (Con A) whereas the polypeptides associated with the Tsud specificity have MWs 69,000, 45,000 and 25,000. The differences in molecular weights and contrast in the Lyt phenotype of cells expressing these antigens suggest they are separate molecules and may imply discrete isotypes of T-cell receptor.
Growth of graphite nanofibers from the decomposition of CO/H2 over silica-supported iron–nickel particles

Extremely fine, tubular graphite nanofibers of varying geometries and degrees of crystallinity were produced by the decomposition of CO and hydrogen over various compositions of nickel–iron particles supported on silica. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy coupled with temperature programmed oxidation studies revealed that, as the iron content of the catalyst was increased, the bimetallic particles precipitated a chainlike graphitic fibrous structure in a stepwise mechanism. The high-iron-content system Fe–Ni (8:2) yielded a small amount of these chainlike graphite fibers that were extremely resilient to oxidation, suggesting a highly crystalline structure. When the catalyst particles consisted of a nickel–iron mixture, Fe–Ni (5:5), there was a decrease in the degree of crystallinity of the fibers (78% graphite) and a corresponding increase in the amount of amorphous carbon precipitated (22% amorphous) within the structure. The high-nickel catalyst Fe–Ni (2:8) generated the largest amount of the tubular nanofiber product. It was significant that there was an increase in the amorphous carbon content (58%) precipitated as opposed to graphitic carbon (42%) in the structures. In some cases, amorphous carbon was deposited inside the graphite core of the nanofibers. The influence of the catalyst composition and nature of the metal-support interaction are key factors in the continuing development of graphite nanofibers possessing desired structures for potential uses in a variety of applications.
Widespread molecular alterations present in stage I non-small cell lung carcinoma fail to predict tumor recurrence

Widespread Molecular Alterations Present in Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma Fail to Predict Tumor Recurrence
A Simple Method for Reducing Astigmatism from Off-Axis Concave Spherical Mirrors

The advantages of mirror optics for spectrographic systems are well known, namely, that all wave lengths focus at the same place and that the reflection losses can be made very small. Most modern spectrographs use mirror optics. Some are able to use spherical mirrors1 while others must use off-axis paraboloidal mirrors2 to achieve the desired resolution. Inexpensive concave spherical mirrors are ideal for imaging the source on a spectrograph slit, except for the problem of astigmatism. Expensive off-axis corrected mirrors can be obtained, but they must then be used only at the designed off-axis angle. We have found a simple adjustable way to reduce the astigmatism from inexpensive spherical mirrors used at moderate off-axis angles.
Consistent estimation in generalized broken-line regression

A change-point model is considered where the canonical parameter of an exponential family drifts from its control value at an unknown time and changes according to a broken-line regression. Necessary and sufficient conditions are obtained for the existence of consistent change-point estimators. When sufficient conditions are met, it is shown that the maximum likelihood estimator of the change point is consistent, unlike the classical abrupt change-point models. Results are extended to the case of nonlinear trends and nonequidistant observations.
The lipids of incomplete influenza virus.

Abstract Standard influenza virus (A0/PR8/34) and incomplete virus of the von Magnus type were analyzed and compared. Virus propagated under conditions of serial undiluted passage had a lower molar ratio of cholesterol-phospholipid (0.6) than did standard virus. A comparison of phospholipids revealed decreased amounts of sphingomyelin and phosphatidylcholine together with increased amounts of phosphatidylethanolamine. Fatty acid profiles of the polar lipid fractions revealed a shift toward short-chain acids and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Neutral lipids, separated by a unidimensional, two-solvent system, revealed that incomplete virus had an increased amount of glycerides with a shift toward mono- and diglycerides. Such changes would tend to alter the packing of the lipids of influenza virus and lead to a more expanded and fluid envelope—accounting for the pleomorphism and defects in the envelope of the von Magnus type virus.
Quantitative fitness effects of infection in a gene-for-gene system

* It is often assumed that pathogen infection decreases plant fitness, thereby driving the evolution of plant resistance (R) genes. However, the impact of bacterial pathogens on fitness has been shown to be relatively subtle, ranging from positive to negative. * In this study, we focus on the Rps5-mediated resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana and examine the fitness effects of resistance by experimentally infecting resistant (R) and susceptible (S) plants with a natural avirulent Pseudomonas syringae strain at each of three initial infection dosage levels. Our methodology ensured control of the plant genetic backgrounds; within each of two natural accessions we created isolines varying in the presence or absence of Rps5. * In terms of lifetime fitness, R plants outperformed their S controls by 9.6-32% when infected by a pathogen carrying an associated Avr gene, depending on the initial dosage levels and genetic backgrounds. * We also found that the naturally R line, Col-0, is more tolerant than the naturally S accession, Ga-0. The negative impact of infection on fitness was 20% less in Col-0 than Ga-0. We found no effect of Rps5 itself on the tolerance of either accession. We therefore failed to find evidence for a trade-off between tolerance and resistance.
Nucleosides. CXLVIII: Synthesis of 6-(β-D-ribofuranosyl)picolinamide. A novel C-nucleoside from D-ribonolactone

Treatment of 2, 4 : 3, 5-di-O-benzylidene-D-aldehydo-ribose (1) with 2-bromo-6-lithiopyridine afforded a mixture of the altro and allo isomers of 6-(2, 4 : 3, 5-di-O-benzylidene-D-pentitol-1-yl)-2-bromopyridine (2 and 3, respectively). These isomers were chromatographically separated. Compound 2 was converted into 6-(β-D-ribofuranosyl)-2-bromopyridine (6) by mesylation of the 1'-hydroxyl group of 2 followed by treatment with trifluoroacetic acid. In a similar manner, the α-isomer 7 was prepared from 3. The same pyridine-C-nucleosides, 6 and 7, were also synthesized from the commercially available D-ribonolactone in seven steps.The bromo function of 2 and 3 was converted into the carboxamide group to give 6-(2, 4 : 3, 5-di-O-benzylidene-D-altro-pentitol-1-yl)picolinamide (10) and its allo isomer 11. Mesylation of 10 followed by trifluoroacetic acid treatment afforded 6-(β-D-ribofuranosyl)picolinamide (14). Similar treatment of 11 gave the α counterpart 15.
Calcium-dependent protein kinase activity is decreased in diabetic rat sciatic nerve.

The effects of 4 weeks of streptozotocin-induced diabetes in the rat on sciatic nerve homogenate protein kinase activities were studied. There was a 47 ± 7% inhibition of Ca+2- dependent protein kinase activity in nerves from the diabetic rats compared to that in their paired normal controls. This Ca+2- dependent activity did not require the addition of phospholipid and was only minimally affected by Sephadex G-50 gel filtration, suggesting that endogenous phospholipid activation was not responsible for this activity. The addition of phospholipid in the presence of Ca+2 revealed an additional activity in these homogenates which probably represents the Ca+2-phospholipid-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase-C). The diabetic state did not appear to alter that activity. The Ca+2-dependent protein kinase was sensitive to agents known to inhibit calmodulindependent protein kinase or protein kinase-C. The IC50 values of the inhibitors for the Ca+2-dependent protein kinase, however, differed from those report...
Moving beyond the controversy: remembering the many contributions of Laud Humphreys to sociology and the study of sexuality

Introduces the reader to Laud Humphreys and his contribution to sociology and the study of sexuality, in the view of Steven Schact, Professor of Sociology at Plattsburgh State University, USA and editor of this special issue of IJSSP. Goes on to show Laud Humphrey’s works and their effect on the psyche of the “breastplate of righteousness”, with regard to criticism of homosexual casual sex in public places.