cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Frequency domain multidimensional fluorescence : A route to model-independent fluorescence decay analysis

Amultivariate method for analyzing complex fluorescence decays without model assumptions is described. This method is applicable to the decays of mixtures of spectrally distinct fluorophores. The method does not require specific information concerning the component spectra or lifetimes, but such information can be used when it is available. The decay is analyzed as the complex quantum yield (a function of the steady-state intensity, modulation ratio, and phase angle) measured as a function of modulation frequency and, in most cases, emission wavelength. When the spectra of the mixture components are known, the frequency domain decays of the components can be calculated from complex quantum yield matrices measured at all or selected wavelengths. Matrices describing component photokinetics and relative concentrations are calculated from the frequency domain decays. When the component emission spectra are not known, complex quantum yield matrices can be factored into the emission spectra and frequency domain decays of the sample components via principal components analysis of the matrix. In this paper, the principles of frequency domain decay analysis are discussed. In particular, the variation of the analysis procedure with the amount of data acquired and the extent of the analyses knowledge of the sample components are described. These procedural variations are illustrated by the analysis of simulated decays and the decays of mixtures of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons in isotropic and microheterogeneous solution.
Spatial subdivision of populations and estimates of genetic variation

Abstract Measures of variation in space are strongly affected by correlations between subdivisions used for sampling. Here we consider variation in gene frequencies across populations. Usually the variance of gene frequencies is standardized by dividing it by the mean gene frequency times one minus the mean ( F ST ). Under the model of isolation by distance (usually called the “stepping stone” model), at the stationary state the correlation between the gene frequencies of two populations falls exponentially with the geographic distance between them. Using this model, we derive formulas for variances of blocks of populations of different sizes in one- and two-dimensional space and suggest that the theoretical results may be useful for understanding real observations, some examples of which are presented. We demonstrate how F ST increases with the degree of subdivision among populations. We also show the effect of gaps between the sampled populations. Our results are valid, however, for traits other than gene frequencies, as long as their correlation with geographic distance falls exponentially. In the extension to 2-dimensional spaces, we present in closed form the distributions of distances between nodes of a lattice or of two lattices. These distributions might have applications in ecology.
Race, Social Welfare, and the Decline of Postwar Liberalism: A New or Old Key?

Fifty-one years ago, when liberalism and social welfare democracy were expanding in all advanced industrialized nations, V.O. Key, Jr., forecast the decline of postwar liberalism in the United States. Current discussion of the decline of liberalism has ignored Key or, when evidence is lacking, has incorrectly cited him. In contrast to Key's relatively direct, simple, and heavily documented reasoning, current explanations are multifactorial, complex, less well documented, and often ideologically loaded. Some explanations for the “postwar” decline identify causal factors more than six years after the war, yet they ignore events in 1945–47. At the fifty-first anniversary of V.O. Key's Southern Politics in State and Nation, attention to Key's forecast and Occam's razor is called for. Key argued that racism in the South, exerted through congressional committees, would lead to a decline of liberalism in the nation. Using “legislative histories,” this article compares Key's single-factor “racial” explanation with a two-factor explanation—and by implication with multifactor ones—and finds Key's more compelling and parsimonious. Archival sources indicate that more than two years before the 1948 Democratic Convention, Charlie Ross, Truman's closest advisor, and Truman himself encouraged Key to assess the emerging postwar politics of the South. As Key anticipated, institutionalized racism sunk the Fair Deal and postwar social democracy, despite Truman's efforts. The effects of racism on postwar and current politics and public administration should be reexamined as a key to understanding American distinctiveness or exceptionalism.
A Portable, Low-Cost, LED Fluorimeter for Middle School, High School, and Undergraduate Chemistry Labs

A low-cost portable fluorimeter was constructed using a 360 nm LED for excitation and a silicon photodiode for detection. The instrument is simple to operate and has been used to investigate fluorescent whitening agents extracted from various brands of paper, to determine the linear range and limit of detection of quinine in various commercial tonic water samples, and to quantify the amount of vitamin B1 in commercial multivitamin supplements. The instrument is straightforward to construct and to use and facilitates the introduction and hands-on application of spectroscopy, fluorescence, and related topics in middle school, high school, and undergraduate laboratory courses.
Fathers of Children and Adolescents With Diabetes: What Do We Know?

Knowing how fathers contribute to child outcomes is critical in the clinical management of children who have type 1 diabetes. The purposes of this review were to synthesize what is known about the role of fathers and to determine directions for future research. Research studies that reported findings that encompassed fathers' perceptions, knowledge, coping and adjustment, and behavior in relation to their children with type 1 diabetes were reviewed. Research suggests that, although fathers are usually not the primary caregiver or manager of the routine day-to-day care, their contribution to the family through perceptions, knowledge, adjustment, and behavior may be associated with important disease management outcomes.
Thrombin expression in prostate: A novel finding

Introduction: A variable repertoire of coagulation protein expression is observed in different cancers. We evaluated expression of thrombin in prostate tissue. Methods: Detection of thrombin was performed using quantitative real-time PCR in fresh tissue and in situ hybridization (ISH) in archival prostate tissue and by immunohistochemistry of prostate tissue microarrays. Results: (Pro)thrombin mRNA expression was detected in cancer tissue and localized to prostatic epithelium and stroma by ISH. Thrombin protein was detected in stroma of benign and malignant epithelium (p <.05). Conclusions: Prostate tissue is a rich reservoir of thrombin. This may have potential for developing antithrombin-based cancer therapy.
Determination of benzo(a)pyrene, hexachlorobenzene and pentachlorophenol in oysters from Galveston Bay, Texas.

Intensive development of industrial plants located along the Houston Ship Channel is a major potential source of refractory organic contaminants to the Galveston Bay estuarine system. Petroleum production and shipping also contribute extensively to the pollutant load of the Bay. For example, previous workers have reported that oyster samples collected at the lower end of the Houston Ship Channel, particularly Morgan's Point, consistently revealed high levels (130 to 240 ppM) of petroleum hydrocarbons. As bivalves have been suggested as potentially valuable sentinel organisms for indicating levels of pollutants in coastal marine waters, this study was undertaken to analyze oysters from Galveston Bay for selected pollutants. Three compounds, each representing a particular class of organic pollutant, were selected for determination in oysters (Crassostrea virginica) collected near Morgan's Point. These were benzo(a)pyrene (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon), hexachlorobenzene (polycholoroaromatic hydrocarbon), and pentachlorophenol (chlorinated phenol). These compounds were selected because of their large annual production, patterns of use and disposal which favor their entry into the oceans, high toxicity, and persistence in the environment.
Training and quality assurance with the structured clinical interview for DSM-IV (SCID-I/P)

Accuracy in psychiatric diagnosis is critical for evaluating the suitability of the subjects for entry into research protocols and for establishing comparability of findings across study sites. However, training programs in the use of diagnostic instruments for research projects are not well systematized. Furthermore, little information has been published on the maintenance of interrater reliability of diagnostic assessments. At the UCLA Research Center for Major Mental Illnesses, a Training and Quality Assurance Program for SCID interviewers was used to evaluate interrater reliability and diagnostic accuracy. Although clinically experienced interviewers achieved better interrater reliability and overall diagnostic accuracy than neophyte interviewers, both groups were able to achieve and maintain high levels of interrater reliability, diagnostic accuracy, and interviewer skill. At the first quality assurance check after training, there were no significant differences between experienced and neophyte interviewers in interrater reliability or diagnostic accuracy. Standardization of training and quality assurance procedures within and across research projects may make research findings from study sites more comparable.
Effect of collectivistic cultural imperatives on Asian American meta‐stereotypes

The present study explored self-perceptions and meta-stereotypes along two dimensions, individuation and sociability, within a sample of Asian American and European American students. For both ethnic groups, meta-stereotypes in dimensions of individuation and sociability appear to be exaggerated forms of self-perceptions along these dimensions. Both Asian and European Americans distinguish between self-perceptions of sociability and individuation, showing that sociability and individuation are two independent constructs. Asian Americans, however, perceived that others who expect a certain level of sociability from their ethnic group would also expect the same level of individuation. Implications of these findings for the perpetuation of Asian stereotypes are discussed.
Inverse agonist properties of the FG 7142 discriminative stimulus.

Abstract A two-lever, food-motivated discrimination was established between the benzodiazepine receptor partial inverse agonist FG 7142 (5.0 mg/kg) and its vehicle. The FG 7142 discriminative stimulus was pharmacologically characterized by testing trained rats with a variety of benzodiazepine receptor ligands. Administration of the inverse agonist DMCM (0.15–0.30 mg/kg) dose-dependently mimicked the FG 7142 stimulus. In contrast, the benzodiazepine receptor agonist chlordiazepoxide, partial agonist ZK 91 296, mixed agonist/antagonist CGS 9896 and antagonist RO 15-1788 blocked the FG 7142 cue. These results indicate that the FG 7142 discriminative stimulus is based on its inverse agonist activity. The generalization of FG 7142 to the anxiogenic/convulsant compound pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), but not to the anorectic agent norfenfluramine, indicates that the anxiogenic properties of FG 7142, rather than its anorectic actions, may underlie the FG 7142 discriminative stimulus.
PURIFICATION OF LUTEINIZING HORMONE-RELEASING FACTOR FROM BOVINE HYPOTHALAMUS.

Hypothalamic tissue of bovine origin was extracted with 2N acetic acid at 8 C. The acetic acid extracts were lyophilized and subjected to gel filtration on Sephadex. Luteinizing hormone-releasing factor (LRF) activity was followed by measuring the depletion of ovarian ascorbic acid (OAAD) in immature rats pretreated with gonadotropins and the increment in plasma LH in ovariectomized estrogen progesterone-treated rats and in an in vitro test. LRF activity was consistently found to emerge from Sephadex before arginine vasopressin. The LRF zone from Sephadex was subjected to chromatography on carboxymethylcellulose. The purified LRF was active at the level of 5 μg in OAAD tests. The amino acids found in the hydrolysates of purified LRF indicate that LRF is a basic polypeptide different from oxytocin and vasopressin. (Endocrinology 75: 608, 1964)
A current approach to diabetic foot infections

Foot infections are a common, complex, and serious problem in diabetic patients. Infections usually begin in foo ulcers, which are associated with neuropathy, vasculopathy, and various metabolic disturbances. These infections are potentially limb and sometimes life threatening. Etiologic agents are usually aerobic gram-positive cocci, but chronic or serious infections often contain gram-negative rods and anaerobes. Chronic infections can lead to contiguous bone infection. Diagnosing osteomyelitis may require imaging studies (especially magnetic resonance imaging) and occasionally bone biopsy. In addition to proper cleansing, debridement, and local wound care, diabetic foot infections require carefully selected antibiotic therapy. Serious infections necessitate hospitalization for initial parenteral broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, but appropriately selected patients with mild infections can be treated as outpatients with oral (or even topical) agents. Initial antibiotic selection is usually empiric; modifications may be needed based on the results of properly obtained cultures and the clinical response. Therapy should be active against staphylococci and streptococci, with broader-spectrum agents indicated if polymicrobial infection is likely. Levels of most antibiotics, except fluoroquinolones, are often subtherapeutic in infected foot tissues. The duration of therapy ranges from a week (for mild soft tissue infections) to over 6 weeks (for osteomyelitis). No single antibiotic agent or combination has proven to be optimal. With appropriate local, surgical, and antimicrobial therapy, most diabetic foot infections can now be successfully treated.
Using visualizations to monitor changes and harvest insights from a global-scale logging infrastructure at Twitter

Logging user activities is essential to data analysis for internet products and services. Twitter has built a unified logging infrastructure that captures user activities across all clients it owns, making it one of the largest datasets in the organization. This paper describes challenges and opportunities in applying information visualization to log analysis at this massive scale, and shows how various visualization techniques can be adapted to help data scientists extract insights. In particular, we focus on two scenarios: (1) monitoring and exploring a large collection of log events, and (2) performing visual funnel analysis on log data with tens of thousands of event types. Two interactive visualizations were developed for these purposes: we discuss design choices and the implementation of these systems, along with case studies of how they are being used in day-to-day operations at Twitter.
Differences in the time course of regional cerebral hemodynamics of gray and white matter during experimental hypertension

Investigations concerned with the pathogenesis of hypertensive encephalopathy have reported two opposing changes in cerebral hemodynamics during induced hypertension: (1) vasospasm or vasoconstriction of the leptomeningeal arteries and (2) increase of cerebral blood flow which has been termed "breakthrough" of the cerebral autoregulation. To resolve this apparent conflict, continuous measurements of focal cerebral flow and oxygen availability were made in 17 baboons by the use of implanted platinum electrodes placed in both gray and white matter during induced hypertension. Autoregulation was initially well maintained in gray matter followed by "breakthrough" but the autoregulatory response was poorly maintained in the cerebral white matter. The vasoconstriction of the leptomeningeal arteries reported in earlier investigations from observations made through a skull window appears to be due to a marked autoregulatory response to hypertension rather than vasospasm. The autoregulatory response appears to be efficient in gray matter but relatively deficient in white matter.
Annealing induced structural changes and microcracking in Mo-Mo3Si

Cast Mo-Mo 3 Si intermetallic composites develop microcracks after annealing at high temperature. Neutron diffraction, x-ray diffraction, composition analysis, and scanning electron microscopy have been used to characterize the structural changes induced by annealing of Mo-Mo 3 Si. It is shown that the observed cracking cannot be attributed to differential thermal stresses that developed on cooling from the annealing temperature. Instead, the experimental data suggest that the cracks were initiated at high temperature, possibly due to diffusion of Si atoms from supersaturated α-Mo to Mo 3 Si.
Statistical rate theory of gas-phase electron transfer. The ferrocene/ferrocenium self-exchange reaction

Abstract The ferrocene/ferrocenium self-exchange electron-transfer reaction in the gas phase at 350 K is modelled by using statistical rate theory. The RRKM formulation of unimolecular rate theory is used to calculate the relative rates of the dissociation of a chemically activated ferrocene/ferrocenium precursor complex and the electron self-exchange process that produces the successor complex. Relative rates are used to calculate reaction efficiencies as a function of the estimated properties of the activated complexes for the two pathways. The RRKM model results are consistent with the high observed efficiency of the ferrocene reaction, but the results are sensitive to the assumed properties of the electron-transfer transition state. Particular attention is given to the effect of intermolecular degrees of freedom involving the interactions between the ferrocene and ferrocenium ion in the activated complex for electron transfer. These degrees of freedom must be modelled as either relatively unhindered internal rotations or low frequency vibrations (≲50 cm −1 ) to account for the observed reaction efficiency.
Thermal Marrow Expansion: Effect of temperature on bone marrow distribution

The distribution of bone marrow in adult mammals is limited mainly to those bones deeply embedded in the body and subject to the higher core body temperature. Active marrow is much less prevalent in the limbs. In the past this was attributed to the lower temperature of the peripheral bone marrow. We have studied the possibility of stimulating hematopoiesis in the limbs (and tails) by increasing the limb temperature. This has been done by elevating the ambient temperature of mice and by tail implantation techniques. Mice incubated at ambient temperature of 22 degrees C can be "expanded" to have markedly enhanced marrow activity in the limbs by either incubation for seven days or more at 34 degrees C, or by implantation of the bone into core temperature areas (peritoneal implantation). The increase in marrow activity is shown both histologically and by 59Fe uptake techniques. Anemia does not enhance this effect, indicating a local phenomenon. A variety of experiments suggest that temperature per se and not temperature-induced increase in blood flow is involved. The increase in marrow activity is accompanied by a modest local increase in clonogenic marrow stem cells but it cannot be shown for certainty whether the phenomenon of Thermal Marrow Expansion (TME) is due to the local effect of elevated temperature on stem or stromal cells. The erythrocytes produced by TME appear normal by in vivo fragility testing. TME may have clinical usefulness in man if the phenomenon occurs in the same fashion as rodents.
Novel and Potent Anti-malarial Agents

Abstract Readily accessible, novel, and potent anti-malarial compounds have been developed. Optimization of the initial lead structure resulted in derivatives with IC 50 values from 7 to 35 nM against chloroquine-sensitive and 70–350 nM against chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum .
Nanoimprinting using self-assembled ceramic nanoislands

We have combined self-assembled ceramic nanoislands with nanoimprinting to demonstrate a novel, simple, low-cost method for polymer surface patterning. The nanoislands are easy to make and inexpensive, and can produce different distinct island morphologies. With a similar stiffness to steel, the nanoislands have superior durability to silicon, glass, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and other common nanoimprinting materials. The nanoislands are stable up to 1000 °C and resist acids, bases, and solvents. We have demonstrated nanoimprinting with PDMS, ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate, and polystyrene polymers. The combination of desirable properties, ease of making, and low cost suggests a useful nanopatterning platform for a wide array of research fields.
Shutoff of BZLF1 Gene Expression Is Necessary for Immortalization of Primary B Cells by Epstein-Barr Virus

The BZLF1 gene controls the switch between latent and lytic infection by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). We previously reported that both the ZV and ZIIR elements within the BZLF1 promoter, Zp, are potent transcription silencers within the context of an intact EBV genome. We report here identification of another sequence element, ZV', which synergized with ZV in repressing Zp via binding ZEB1 or ZEB2. We then determined the phenotype of a variant of EBV strain B95.8 in which the ZV, ZV', and ZIIR elements were concurrently mutated. HEK293 cell lines infected with this triple mutant (tmt) virus spontaneously synthesized 6- to 10-fold more viral BZLF1, BRLF1, BMRF1, and BLLF1 RNAs, 3- to 6-fold more viral Zta, Rta, and EAD proteins, 3- to 5-fold more viral DNA, and 7- to 9-fold more infectious virus than did 293 cell lines latently infected with either the ZV ZV' double mutant (dmt) or ZIIR mutant (mt) virus. While ZV ZV' ZIIR tmt EBV efficiently infected human primary blood B cells in vitro, it was highly defective in immortalizing them. Instead of the nearly complete silencing of BZLF1 gene expression that occurs within 4 days after primary infection with wild-type EBV, the ZV ZV' ZIIR tmt-infected cells continued to synthesize BZLF1 RNA, with 90% of them dying within 9 days postinfection. BL41 cells infected with this "superlytic" virus also exhibited increased synthesis of BZLF1 and BMRF1 RNAs. Thus, we conclude that the ZV, ZV', and ZIIR silencing elements act synergistically to repress transcription from Zp, thereby tightly controlling BZLF1 gene expression, which is crucial for establishing and maintaining EBV latency.
The regional North Indian popular music industry in 2014: from cassette culture to cyberculture

This article explores the current state of the regional vernacular popular music industry in North India, assessing the changes that have occurred since around 2000 with the advent of digital technologies, including DVD format, and especially the Internet, cellphones and ‘pen-drives’. It provides a cursory overview of the regional music scene as a whole, and then focuses, as a case study, on a particular genre, namely the languriya songs of the Braj region, south of Delhi. It discusses how commercial music production is adapting, or failing to adapt, to recent technological developments, and it notes the vigorous and persistent flowering of regional music scenes such as that in the Braj region.
Science, PIC and POPs: Negotiating the Membership of Chemical Review Committees under the Stockholm and Rotterdam Conventions

Multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) often have close relationships with scientific and technical advisors, and as international policy makers negotiate the post-Rio generation of MEAs, there has been an increased emphasis on establishing science advisory bodies (SABs) as part of the institutional design of MEAs. This article will examine the negotiations of the design, membership and roles of the science advisory bodies to two of the most recent additions to the MEA landscape: the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade; and the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. A particular emphasis will be placed on concerns over membership, examining how policy makers have sought to achieve representative membership by ensuring that the limited number of experts on a SAB reflect the national, economic and geographic diversity of stakeholders (capturing interests of those benefiting and suffering from the problem or its solution), while also maintaining an institutional and disciplinary diversity suitable to the nature of the problem (including those directly or traditionally implicated in the study or management of the problem, whilst still allowing input from other experts more tangentially related, who are likely to identify inter-problem linkages).
Selective catalytic oxidation (SCO) of ammonia to nitrogen over Fe/ZSM-5 catalysts

Abstract In this paper, we report a Fe/ZSM-5 catalyst that has superior catalytic activities for the selective catalytic oxidation (SCO) of ammonia to nitrogen as compared to all previously known catalysts. This Fe/ZSM-5 catalyst was prepared by a simple impregnation method using NH4-ZSM-5 and FeCl2. The performance of the catalyst showed that the impregnation method based on NH4-ZSM-5 and FeCl2 is a surprisingly effective process for the preparation of Fe/ZSM-5 catalyst, which has superior catalytic activities for the SCO of ammonia in the presence of excess oxygen. This preparation process is in fact a combination of the conventional impregnation and solid-state ion-exchange processes. Two different procedures were used to prepare Fe/ZSM-5, which is referred to 1-step and 2-step method, respectively. The SCO activity results show that the Fe/ZSM-5 prepared by 2-step method using FeCl2 has the highest activity compared to other catalysts studied. For the Fe/ZSM-5 catalyst, there existed a good correlation between the N2 selectivity for the SCO reaction and the activity for the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NO with ammonia, i.e., the higher the SCR activity, the higher N2 selectivity for SCO reaction. The study of the effect on H2O and SO2 indicated that although SO2/H2O decreased the NH3 conversion, a high conversion was still obtained at 400 °C at a high space velocity, so the Fe/ZSM-5 prepared by NH4-ZSM-5 and FeCl2 should be a promising catalyst for the selective oxidation of NH3 to N2.
Nishida on Heidegger

Heidegger and East-Asian thought have traditionally been strongly correlated. However, although still largely unrecognized, significant differences between the political and metaphysical stance of Heidegger and his perceived counterparts in East-Asia most certainly exist. One of the most dramatic discontinuities between East-Asian thought and Heidegger is revealed through an investigation of Kitarō Nishida’s own vigorous criticism of Heidegger. Ironically, more than one study of Heidegger and East-Asian thought has submitted that Nishida is that representative of East-Asian thought whose philosophy most closely resembles Heideggerian thought. In words that then and now resound discordantly within the enshrined, established view of Heidegger’s relationship to East-Asian thought, Nishida stated uninhibitedly his own view of Heidegger in the noteworthy statement: “Heidegger is not worth your time… He…does not recognize that which is indispensible and decisive, namely, God.” This present study lays out for the first time in English, the significant differences between the metaphysical and political stances of Nishida and Heidegger, Nishida’s own critique of Heidegger, and Heidegger’s own rather dismal assessment of non-Western philosophy, all of which demonstrate a remarkable, hitherto unrecognized discontinuity between Heidegger and East-Asian thought.
Absorption of CO2 and subsequent viscosity reduction of an acrylonitrile copolymer

Abstract Acrylonitrile (AN) copolymers (AN content greater than about 85 mol%) are traditionally solution processed to avoid a cyclization and crosslinking reaction that takes place at temperatures where melt processing would be feasible. It is well known that carbon dioxide (CO2) reduces the glass transition temperature (Tg) and consequently the viscosity of many glassy and some semi-crystalline thermoplastics. However, the ability of CO2 to act as a processing aid and permit processing of thermally unstable polymers at temperatures below the onset of thermal degradation has not been explored. This study concentrates on the ability to plasticize an AN copolymer with CO2, which may ultimately permit melt processing at reduced temperatures. To facilitate viscosity measurements and maximize the CO2 absorption, a relatively thermally stable, commercially produced AN copolymer containing 65 mol% AN was investigated in this research. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated that CO2 significantly absorbs into and reduces the Tg of the AN copolymer. Pressurized capillary rheometry indicated that the magnitude of the viscosity reduction is dependent on the amount of absorbed CO2, which correlates directly to the Tg reduction of the plasticized material. Up to a 60% viscosity reduction was obtained over the range of shear rates tested for the plasticized copolymer containing up to 6.7 wt% CO2 (31 °C Tg reduction), corresponding to as much as a 30 °C equivalent reduction in processing temperature. A Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF) analysis was used to estimate the viscosity reduction based on the Tg reduction (and corresponding amount of absorbed CO2) in the plasticized AN copolymer, and the predicted viscosity reduction based on using the universal constants was 34–85% higher than measured, depending on the amount of absorbed CO2. Van Krevelen's empirical solubility relationships were used to calculate the expected absorbance levels of CO2, and found to be highly dependent on the choice of constants within the statistical ranges of error of the Van Krevelen relationships.
Controlling formations of multiple mobile robots

We investigate feedback laws used to control multiple robots moving together in a formation. We propose a method for controlling formations that uses only local sensor-based information, in a leader-follower motion. We use methods of feedback linearization to exponentially stabilize the relative distance and orientation of the follower, and show that the zero dynamics of the system are also (asymptotically) stable. We demonstrate in simulation the use of these algorithms to control six robots moving around an obstacle. These types of control laws can be used to control arbitrarily large numbers of robots moving in very general types of formations.
Use of Probabilistic Modeling within a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model To Predict Sulfamethazine Residue Withdrawal Times in Edible Tissues in Swine

The presence of antimicrobial agents in edible tissues of food-producing animals remains a major public health concern. Probabilistic modeling techniques incorporated into a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model were used to predict the amounts of sulfamethazine residues in edible tissues in swine. A PBPK model for sulfamethazine in swine was adapted to include an oral dosing route. The distributions for sensitive parameters were determined and were used in a Monte Carlo analysis to predict tissue residue times. Validation of the distributions was done by comparison of the results of a Monte Carlo analysis to those obtained with an external data set from the literature and an in vivo pilot study. The model was used to predict the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval of the 99th percentile of the population, as recommended by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The external data set was used to calculate the withdrawal time by using the tolerance limit algorithm designed by FDA. The withdrawal times obtained by both methods were compared to the labeled withdrawal time for the same dose. The Monte Carlo method predicted a withdrawal time of 21 days, based on the amounts of residues in the kidneys. The tolerance limit method applied to the time-limited data set predicted a withdrawal time of 12 days. The existing FDA label withdrawal time is 15 days. PBPK models can incorporate probabilistic modeling techniques that make them useful for prediction of tissue residue times. These models can be used to calculate the parameters required by FDA and explore those conditions where the established withdrawal time may not be sufficient.
Traumatized Political Cultures: The After Effects of Totalitarianism in China and Russia

Developments in both China and Russia are a challenge to political science, and more particularly to theories of political culture. Both countries are engaged in profound processes of transition involving the abandonment of totalitarianism and the adoption of market-based economies. It is, however, far from clear what form their political systems will eventually take. They are currently following strikingly different paths. Are the differences a reflection of their distinctive cultures? Or, are the differences more structural, a manifestation of their respective stages of economic and social development? Or, are they merely the consequences of the idiosyncratic choices and policy decisions of the two leaderships?
Philosophical Society for the Study of Sport 1998: Should Character Be Measured? A Reply to Professor Gough and the Reductionist Argument

(1999). Philosophical Society for the Study of Sport 1998. Journal of the Philosophy of Sport: Vol. 26, No. 1, pp. 95-104.
Combined latissimus dorsiserratus anterior/rib composite free flap in mandibular reconstruction

The serratus anterior/rib composite flap can be used alone or in combination with a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap in mandibular reconstruction. The combined flap is particularly useful in reconstructing large anterior mandibular defects, and 4 cases are described which illustrate its use both as a pedicled flap and as a free tissue transfer.
Older Adults Have a Low Capacity To Opsonize Pneumococci Due to Low IgM Antibody Response to Pneumococcal Vaccinations

Since the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) is less effective for older adults than for young adults, it is important to investigate the immunologic basis for the reduced efficacy of PPV23 among older adults. We determined the effectiveness of PPV23 among young (n = 55) and older (n = 44) adults by measuring the serum IgG, IgM, and IgA concentrations and opsonic capacities against serotypes 14, 18C, and 23F. While young and older adults showed no difference in levels of IgG antibodies against pneumococcal polysaccharide (PPS), older adults had lower IgA and IgM antibody levels than young adults for all three serotypes. In both age groups, anti-PPS IgA or IgM antibody levels were much lower than anti-PPS IgG antibody levels. Young adults showed higher opsonic capacities than older adults for serotypes 14 and 23F. In order to determine the effects of anti-PPS IgA or IgM antibodies on the functional difference between young and older adults, anti-PPS IgA or IgM antibodies were removed from immune sera by affinity chromatography. The difference in opsonic capacity between young and older adults disappeared for serotypes 14 and 23F (but not for serotype 18C) when IgM antibody was removed. However, there was no significant difference between the two age groups when IgA antibody was removed. In conclusion, even though anti-PPS IgG antibody levels are high compared with anti-PPS IgM antibody levels, the low levels of anti-PPS IgM antibody alone can explain the functional difference observed between young and older adults immunized with PPV23 with regard to some pneumococcal serotypes.
Examination of the Effect of System Pressure Ratio and Heat Recuperation on the Efficiency of a Coal-Based Gas Turbine Fuel Cell Hybrid Power Generation System With CO2 Capture

This paper examines two coal-based hybrid configurations that employ separated anode and cathode streams for the capture and compression of CO2 . One configuration uses a standard Brayton cycle, and the other adds heat recuperation ahead of the fuel cell. Results show that peak efficiencies near 55% are possible, regardless of cycle configuration, including the cost in terms of energy production of CO2 capture and compression. The power that is required to capture and compress the CO2 is shown to be approximately 15% of the total plant power.
Coordinated Effects in the 2010 Horizontal Merger Guidelines

Recent research has highlighted the quantitative contribution to merger analysis from extending unilateral effects models to understand the payoffs to future potential coordinated effects. Some of the emphasis of this research appears to have made its way into the 2010 Horizontal Merger Guidelines. In this paper, we demonstrate the quantification of coordinated effects in an oligopoly and procurement model, and we show that screens that are based on upward pricing pressure are not adequate in mergers where coordinated effects are a potential concern.
Racial and Gender Differences in Peak Oxygen Consumption in Heart Failure Patients

Background: Peak exercise oxygen consumption (PVO2) is a powerful predictor of outcome in patients (pts) with advanced CHF. However, previous studies of PVO2 measurements involved primarily Caucasian men with moderate to severe CHF. The applicability of these findings to a larger population of CHF pts is unknown. The current study examines the effects of race and gender on PVO2 values in CHF pts. Methods: Ambulatory CHF pts underwent symptom-limited stress testing with breath-by-breath expired gas analysis using ramped treadmill protocols. A single reader interpreted all tests. Comparison between groups was made using Student’s t tests. Results: 594 consecutive CHF pts (mean age 52.0 12.3 years; 28% females; 76% Caucasians; 21% African Americans; mean LVEF 26 12%; mean BMI 28.7 5.4; 89% on ACEI/ARBs; 73% on s blockers) were included in this analysis. Women had significantly lower PVO2 than men (14.0 4.9 vs. 16.6 7.1 ml/kg/min; p 0.0001), despite being younger (49.0 11.5 vs. 53.2 12.4 yrs; p 0.0002) and having a higher LVEF (29 13 vs. 25 11%; p 0.001). In addition, percent-predicted PVO2 using the Wasserman formula (which accounts for the observed lower PVO2 in normal women) was also significantly lower in women than in men (47 15 vs. 55 20%; p 0.0001). Similarly, African Americans had significantly lower PVO2 and percent-predicted PVO2 than Caucasians ([14.2 5.2 vs. 16.4 6.9 ml/kg/min; p 0.001], [45 14 vs. 55 19%; p 0.0001]), despite being younger (48.0 12.3 vs. 53.4 12.0 yrs; p 0.0001). Body mass index (BMI) was similar between women and men (28.7 6.8 vs. 28.6 4.8), but was significantly higher in African Americans than Caucasians (30.2 6.4 vs. 28.3 5.0; p 0.0005). Linear regression analyses confirmed the observed predictive effects of gender and race on PVO2 and percent-predicted PVO2, after controlling for LVEF, BMI and CHF etiology (p 0.0001 in all cases). African American women had the lowest PVO2 and percent-predicted PVO2 (12.9 4.2 ml/kg/min; 41 11%), while Caucasian men had the highest PVO2 and percent-predicted PVO2 (17.0 7.4 ml/kg/ min; 57 20%). There was no significant difference in either PVO2 or percent-predicted PVO2 between Caucasian women and African American men (14.5 5.1 vs. 15.0 5.6 ml/kg/min; 50 15 vs. 47 16%). Conclusion: There are significant racial and gender differences in PVO2 values in CHF pts, despite controlling for other factors known to affect PVO2. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal use of PVO2 measurement as a prognostic variable in different subgroups of CHF pts.
Pilot randomized trial demonstrating reversal of obesity-related abnormalities in reward system responsivity to food cues with a behavioral intervention

Obesity is associated with hyperactivation of the reward system for high-calorie (HC) versus low-calorie (LC) food cues, which encourages unhealthy food selection and overeating. However, the extent to which this hyperactivation can be reversed is uncertain, and to date there has been no demonstration of changes by behavioral intervention. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging to measure changes in activation of the striatum for food images at baseline and 6 months in a pilot study of 13 overweight or obese adults randomized to a control group or a novel weight-loss intervention. Compared to controls, intervention participants achieved significant weight loss (−6.3±1.0 kg versus +2.1±1.1 kg, P<0.001) and had increased activation for LC food images with a composition consistent with that recommended in the behavioral intervention at 6 months versus baseline in the right ventral putamen (P=0.04), decreased activation for HC images of typically consumed foods in the left dorsal putamen (P=0.01). There was also a large significant shift in relative activation favoring LC versus HC foods in both regions (P<0.04). This study provides the first demonstration of a positive shift in activation of the reward system toward healthy versus unhealthy food cues in a behavioral intervention, suggesting new avenues to enhance behavioral treatments of obesity. The following paper shows that individuals on a structured behavioral weight loss program had a change in brain activation on MRI towards low calorie vs high calorie foods at the end of a six month period. The study had very small numbers and lists numerous limitations and weaknesses. However, this study is the first to show that brain activation can be altered toward healthy vs unhealthy foods by a behavioral intervention. The numerous limitations mandate that more extensive follow up studies be done to confirm these results, but the possibility exists that improved behavioral treatments may change the resistance to maintenance of weight loss that has been seen in numerous prior studies.
Read channels for pre-patterned media, with trench playback

Patterned media can be prepared by depositing conventional continuous-film media on prepatterned substrates, such as DVD-like plastic disks. Significant playback signals are produced from media deposited in the substrate trenches, at terabits-per-inch/sup 2/ lithographic feature size limits. Three recording channels are analyzed to deal with these signals - standard symmetric-pulse partial response maximum likelihood (ignoring the trench signal), an asymmetric partial response channel with different positive and negative pulse targets, and simple cancellation of the trench signal. The latter has the best bit-error rate (BER), even with 10% cancellation errors. Perpendicular media without an underlayer had superior BER to horizontal.
Fluorescent Nanometer Microspheres as a Reporter for Sensitive Detection of Simulants of Biological Threats Using Multiplexed Suspension Arrays

We succeeded in using 40 nm FRET (fluorescence resonance energy transfer) microspheres conjugated to antibodies as the fluorescent reporters to perform the multiplexing suspension array measurements on two simulants of biological threats, ricin (A chain) and a crude spore preparation of Bacillus globigii (Bg). The microspheres were impregnated with two types of fluorophores in equal number (∼140 fluorophores in total per microsphere) and displayed bright PE-like fluorescence via a fluorescence resonance energy transfer mechanism. Activated microspheres (aldehyde groups) were directly coupled to antibodies and used to form sandwich-type immunoassays in a suspension array. For the crude preparations of Bg, the assay sensitivity using antibody-conjugated microspheres is an order of magnitude higher than that using the conventional fluorescent reporter, R-phycoerythrin (PE). Using the microspheres, Bg at the concentration of 5 ng/mL can be easily detected. For ricin, the assay sensitivity was similar to that ...
Noise reduction and magnetic priming for kW magnetrons by azimuthally varying axial magnetic fields

Summary form only given. Recent experiments have proven that imposition of an azimuthally-varying axial magnetic field to microwave oven magnetrons causes a significant (-30 dB near carrier) decrease in the close-in noise, elimination of sidebands and faster startup. Noise reduction is observed at low, medium and high currents, for fresh and aged, 10-vane, double-strapped magnetrons produced by various manufacturers. This noise reduction technique perturbs the magnetic field by adding a number of permanent magnets to the outside of one of standard circular magnets of the magnetron. The magnitude of the axial magnetic field perturbation was up to 50%, measured at the outside of the cavity structure. Experiments were performed utilizing Panasonic 2M167A-M10 and Toshiba 2M172 J(E) magnetrons, with a low-ripple DC power supply at parameters: voltage about -4 kV, tube current up to 300 mA, and power levels up to 800 W. Several magnetic perturbation arrangements were experimentally and computationally studied. For an N-cavity magnetron operating in the pi-mode, optimal "magnetic priming" for rapid startup employs N/2 azimuthal magnetic variations, as the electrons are kinematically-pre-bunched in N/2 spokes within just one Larmor period. A highly idealized model of magnetic priming revealed a parametric instability, which favors a radial expansion of electrons from the cathode to the anode, in the absence of rf fields and electrostatic effects.
Regulation of In Vitro Vascular Calcification by BMP4, VEGF and Wnt3a

Vascular calcification is a common clinical complication of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and end-stage renal failure, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In this study we demonstrate that factors secreted by the hypertrophic chondrocytes induce matrix mineralization and osteoblastic transformation in cultured mouse vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). In addition, these factors render VSMCs responsive to BMP4 and Wnt3a ligands. Neither BMP-4 nor Wnt3a could induce mineralization in short-term (up to 8 days) cultures of primary mouse VSMCs. However, both ligands act synergistically with the chondrocyte-conditioned medium causing a further increase in VSMC calcification. Finally, we show that commitment of VSMCs towards the BMP-regulated mineralization can be induced by the chondrocyte-secreted bone anabolic factor VEGF. In addition, expression profiling suggests a novel role in vascular calcification for the matrix proteins previously known to regulate bone formation and mineralization (including MMP3, fibulin, 11betahydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 and retinoic acid receptor responder 2). The results of this study may contribute to further understanding of the cellular mechanisms responsible for vascular calcification and provide important information for the treatment of this pathology.
Leukocyte immunophenotyping by flow cytometry in a multisite study: Standardization, quality control, and normal values in the Transfusion Safety Study

Abstract The Transfusion Safety Study (TSS) is a multicenter, cooperative investigation of factors that may determine the occurrence and modify the expression of transusion-transmitted infections. A flow cytometry laboratory was established in each of the six participating centers in order to avoid alterations in cell phenotypes which may be caused by shipping delays, temperature changes, and handling. As a consequence, in order to assure compatibility of results, stringent standardization, quality control, and proficiency testing procedures were developed. This paper documents (i) the effect of time from phlebotomy to specimen staining and then to analysis for the antibodies used in the study; (ii) the effects of variations in light scatter cursor location for certain antibodies; (iii) a quality control program and data management and analysis system, each specifically designed for the study; and (iv) presents extensive data on age- and sex-related reference (normal) ranges for the several individual and paired monoclonal antibodies used in the study. Problems encountered, including obtaining reliable absolute lymphocyte counts, interference by nucleated erythrocytes, and sources of variability in results, are discussed. This study is meant to serve as a reference for future TSS publications.