cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Automatic segmentation and quantification of filamentous structures in electron tomography

Electron tomography is a promising technology for imaging ultrastructures at nanoscale resolutions. However, image and quantitative analyses are often hindered by high levels of noise, staining heterogeneity, and material damage either as a result of the electron beam or sample preparation. We have developed and built a framework that allows for automatic segmentation and quantification of filamentous objects in 3D electron tomography. Our approach consists of three steps: (i) local enhancement of filaments by Hessian filtering; (ii) detection and completion (e.g., gap filling) of filamentous structures through tensor voting; and (iii) delineation of the filamentous networks. Our approach allows for quantification of filamentous networks in terms of their compositional and morphological features. We first validate our approach using a set of specifically designed synthetic data. We then apply our segmentation framework to tomograms of plant cell walls that have undergone different chemical treatments for polysaccharide extraction. The subsequent compositional and morphological analyses of the plant cell walls reveal their organizational characteristics and the effects of the different chemical protocols on specific polysaccharides.
Reactions to and willingness to express emotion in communal and exchange relationships

Abstract Based on the idea that emotion conveys information about the expressor's needs and on Clark and Mills' (1979) distinction between communal relationships and exchange relationships, it was hypothesized that: (a) expression of emotion (when not directed at the other) would be reacted to more favorably when communal than when exchange relationships were desired, and that (b) people would be more willing to express emotion in communal than in exchange relationships. In Study 1 subjects were led to desire a communal or an exchange relationship with another who expressed either happiness, sadness, irritability, or no emotion. Then liking for the other was assessed. When no emotion was expressed, there was no difference in liking for the other between the Communal and Exchange conditions. However, as predicted, when happiness, sadness, or irritability was expressed, liking was significantly greater when a communal rather than an exchange relationship was desired. In Study 2, subjects were paired with an existing friend (Communal conditions) or with a stranger (Exchange conditions) with whom they expected to have a conversation. They were given a list of possible topics some of which involved talking about emotional experiences and some of which did not. As predicted, subjects in the Communal condition indicated a greater preference for talking about emotional topics than did those in the Exchange condition.
Projection of the digit and wrist area of precentral gyrus to the putamen: relation between topography and physiological properties of neurons in the putamen.

Abstract The autoradiographic technique was used to examine the projection from the digit and wrist area of the precentral gyrus to the putamen in two macaque monkeys. Motor responses elicited by intracortical microstimulation were mapped to guide selection of the site of injection of isotope. Additionally, an electrophysiological study of the activity of putamen neurons during voluntary movements of the distal arm in an awake monkey was performed prior to the anatomical study in one of the animals. Two major findings resulted from this study. Firstly, the area of representation of the digits and wrist in area 4 gives rise to a substantial projection to the putamen. The distribution of terminals consisted of a simple pattern of clusters at anterior levels of the putamen. At caudal levels in the putamen, the clusters merged into a single diagonal band of label. This basic pattern was found to be virtually identical in the two monkeys. Secondly, the location of neurons in the putamen which were activated during voluntary movements of the distal arm was closely associated with the terminal distribution of fibers from the digit and wrist zone of area 4. These data provide strong evidence to support the idea that the putamen is concerned with motor function of distal muscles of the arm, and the topographic characterisctics of the cortiputamen projection are closely related to the physiological properties of individual neurons in the putamen.
ARSENATE AS A SELECTIVE INHIBITOR OF GROWTH SUBSTANCE ACTION.

The action of growth substances in causing cell elongation is closely linked to respiration, and many respiratory inhibitors also inhibit growth (Commoner and Thimann, 3, Bonner, 1, 2). In the study of the way in which growth substances act to bring about growth it is therefore useful to have inhibitors which will suppress the action of growth substances without affecting respiration of the treated tissue. Such a selective inhibitor of growth substance action has been found in arsenate.
Severe Strongyloidiasis with Negative Serology after Corticosteroid Treatment

Patient: Male, 77 Final Diagnosis: Deere strongyloidiasis Symptoms: Abdominal pain • apetite loss • diarrhea Medication: Prednisolon Clinical Procedure: Upper endoscopy Specialty: Gastroenterology and Hepatology Objective: Unusual clinical course Background: Strongyloidiasis usually presents as a chronic and limited disease, but in some immunocompromised patients it may become a life-threatening disease. Case Report: A 77-year-old Haitian male, with history of temporal arteritis on 40 mg of oral prednisone presented complaining of decreased oral intake, epigastric pain, and non-bloody diarrhea. He had bi-temporal wasting and a distended abdomen but without guarding or tenderness. Laboratory examination included mild leukocytosis, anemia, negative HIV antibody, negative parasite stool exam, and negative serology for Giardia and Strongyloides. CT of the abdomen showed multiple distended loops, without obstruction. During the admission he had a 4 g hemoglobin drop and a positive occult blood test, requiring blood transfusions, IV pantoprazole, and upper endoscopy. Findings included severe duodenitis, blunted villi, and intramucosal and luminal helminthic worms and eggs. Pathology showed Strongyloides stercoralis infection, confirmed by subsequent PCR. He was given 1 day of 15 mg oral ivermectin, diarrhea resolved, and was discharged with a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube because of the persistent lack of appetite. Conclusions: Given the persistent nature of strongyloidiasis and its high susceptibility to ivermectin, it potentially would be worth consider treating high-risk patients in the appropriate clinical and epidemiological setting, irrespective of screening test results, in order to avoid false-negative result consequences.
Bicarbonate surfoxidants: micellar oxidations of aryl sulfides with bicarbonate-activated hydrogen peroxide.

The mechanism and kinetics of bicarbonate-catalyzed oxidations of sulfides by H2O2 at the aqueous /cationic micellar interface have been investigated. The general term surfoxidant is introduced to describe the combination of an ionic surfactant with a reactive counterion that is itself an oxidant or activates an oxidant from the bulk solution to form an oxidant counterion. It is shown that the new catalytic cationic surfoxidant CTAHCO3 (cetyltrimethylammonium bicarbonate) significantly enhances the overall oxidation rates as compared to the addition of bicarbonate salts to CTACl and CTABr, for which the halide counterions must undergo equilibrium displacement by the oxidant anion (peroxymonocarbonate, HCO4-). General equations based on the classic pseudophase model have been derived to account for the preequilibrium reaction in the aqueous and micellar phases, and the resulting model can be used to describe any micellar reaction with associated preequilibria. Rate constants and relevant equilibrium consta...
Hyperhomocysteinemia and deep vein thrombosis in orthotopic heart transplantation: a case report.

Homocysteine has been recognized as a risk factor for atherosclerosis and arterial and venous thrombosis. Heart transplant patients have an increased prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia. High homocysteine levels in transplant patients may promote development of cardiac allograft vasculopathy, but there is minimal information regarding the risk of venous thrombosis. The current case report illustrates the association of increased levels of homocysteine and hypercoagulable syndrome in a 36-year-old heart transplant patient with no previous history of clotting disorder. Both elevated homocysteine levels and extensive venous thrombosis responded promptly to treatment with a folate/B12/B6 vitamin combination and enoxaparin. Am. J. Hematol. 77:161–163, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Coronary artery anomalies diagnosed by magnetic resonance angiography

Summary Coronary artery anomalies are uncommon entities that may be associated with sudden death. Because of its 2-D projection imaging nature, conventional X-ray coronary angiography may not accurately delineate the origins and course of aberrant coronary arteries with respect to the great vessels. Non-invasive, cross-sectional imaging techniques such as coronary CT angiography and magnetic resonance angiography are increasingly used in clinical practice to diagnose coronary artery anomalies. Although this study reviews coronary artery anatomy and selected anomalies as seen with true fast imaging with steady-state precession magnetic resonance angiography, the information provided is equally applicable to electrocardiogram-gated coronary CT angiography.
Using Cases to Teach Personality and Character Traits………: Leading a Discussion of the case Study

“Each student can be stimulated to evaluate his own individual personality and character traits if you will help him analyze realistic business situations in which these traits are clearly related ...
Precursor natural killer cell leukemia

Natural killer (NK) cell tumors are a rare and heterogeneous group of disorders. Immature NK cell tumors are less common, and are less recognized and defined than mature NK cell tumors. There is insufficient experience of diagnosis and treatment with immature NK cell tumors, especially in pediatric patients. Here we describe a pediatric patient with precursor NK cell leukemia and review the literature of the previously reported cases in children to further help characterize the diagnosis, treatment, and outcome.
Analysis of the explosive 2,4,6-trinitrophenylmethylnitramine (tetryl) in bush bean plants

Abstract Previous attempts to delineate the metabolism of the explosive 2,4,6-trinitrophenylmethylnitramine (tetryl) in plants have been unsuccessful. Development of an appropriate analytical methodology has been thwarted due to the extreme thermal and base lability of tetryl as well as its propensity to undergo photodecomposition. This study presents a methodology based on solvent extraction of plant tissue followed by fractionation of the organic extract on silica gel with subsequent determination of tetryl by HPLC. This methodology allowed 82.70 ± 5.54% recovery of tetryl from fortified bush bean leaves. The developed methodology was applied to study tetryl uptake and metabolism in bush bean plants exposed to tetryl-amended hydroponic cultures.
A Process Change Can Unintentionally Affect Surgical Infections: Tracing the Cesarian-Section Patient from Admission To Identify Underlying Issues

ISSUE: Baptist DeSoto is a 169 bed acute care hospital with an occupancy rate of almost 100%. During the 3rd Quarter of 2004, Infection Control (IC) reviewed recommendations for prevention of Surgical Site Infections (SSI). We revealed that razors were used instead of clippers. In November 2004, both razor kits and razors were removed from unit stock. A log was maintained by Store Room if single-use razors were issued. In March 2005 superficial SSI rate in C-Section procedures had increased. Five (5) C-Section SSI were detected since December 2004. Historically the SSI rate for C-Sections is low (FY03 = 0.51, FY04 = 0.46). This was an unexpected increase. PROJECT: A team of reviewers (IC, Women's Center [WC], and Physicians) began an intensive investigation into the cause for the increasing SSI rate. Assessment included examination of surgical processes related to instrument sterilization, surgical aseptic techniques and analysis of a detailed line listing of infected patient's. A re-education campaign for the preoperative patient occurred in April 2005. Still 4 additional C-Section SSI occurred from May to June. The WC management team began a patient tracer on admission for C-Section patients. Tracer observations identified a missed step during the clipping process. The razor method utilized a “prep kit” which included a tray to hold water with soap and a sponge. The patient's abdomen is scrubbed with the soapy water and then shaved. When the process changed to clipping, prep kits were eliminated and the abdomen was clipped prior to surgery without washing. In August the prep policy was revised to include steps to clean the abdomen with the clipping technique. Educational updates occurred and units are now supplied with a single-use antiseptic sponge to clean the abdomen. RESULTS: The hospital continues to use and recommend clipping for surgical hair removal. Since the refinements to the prepping policy in August 2005 there have been 5 consecutive months without C-Section SSI. LESSONS LEARNED: Effecting even a simple process change to improve outcomes can unintentionally provide inverse results. A few key components proved to be successful. Measuring patient outcomes during change is critical to gauge successful interventions. The patient tracer strategy was useful in identifying the procedural weak link. When investigating adverse outcomes, a format for success is a team based approach. Download full-size image
Ocean color algorithms in optically shallow waters: limitations and improvements

Current ocean color algorithms based on remote-sensing reflectance spectra, Rrs(λ), overestimate chlorophyll a concentrations, Chl, and particulate backscattering coefficients, bbp(λ), in optically shallow oceanic waters due to increased bottom reflectance. Since such regions often contain important ecological resources and are heavily influenced by human populations, accurate estimates of Chl and bbp(λ) are essential for monitoring algal blooms (e.g. red tides), detecting sediment resuspension events and quantifying primary productivity. In this study, a large synthetic data set of 500 Rrs(λ) spectra is developed to examine limitations of ocean color algorithms for optically shallow waters and to develop alternative algorithms that can be applied to satellite (e.g. SeaWiFS and MODIS) and aircraft ocean color sensor data. Rrs(λ) spectra are simulated using a semi-analytic model for optically shallow waters. The model is parameterized with sand bottom albedo spectra, ρ(λ), using a wide range of chlorophyll a concentrations (0.03-30 mg m-3), bottom depths (2-50m) and bottom albedos (ρ(550)=0.01-0.30) to provide a robust data set that accurately represents and complements shipboard Rrs(λ) data from the Gulf of Mexico and Bahamian waters. The accuracy of a remotely-based technique developed recently from shipboard Rrs(λ) data is tested on the synthetic data for identifying waters with bottom reflectance contributions at Rrs(555) greater than 25%. Limitations and improvements regarding this method are discussed.
CORR Insights®: Medical services and associated costs vary widely among surgeons treating patients with hand osteoarthritis.

O ur profession must demonstrate that the costs of the care we provide are well justified. Becker and colleagues thoroughly examine this issue in the context of hand osteoarthritis. By assessing several variables relevant to patients receiving treatment for hand osteoarthritis against the Medicare costs incurred, this study measures cost variability and identifies predictors of increased expenditure. Their investigation is solid in design and methodology, and yet there are some clinically relevant questions that we still need to explore for future studies.
African Americans' Struggle for Environmental Justice and The Case of The Shintech Plant: Lessons Learned From a War Waged

All communities and persons across this nation should live in a safe and healthy environment .... To the greatest extent practicable and permitted by law... each Federal agency shall make achieving environmental justice part of its mission by identifying and addressing, as appropriate, disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects of its programs, policies, and activities on minority population and low-income population in the United States and its territories and possessions ....
Priority and Choice Probability Estimation by Ranking, Rating and Combined Data

Ranking data is commonly used in marketing and advertising research for priority estimation among the compared items by Thurstone scaling. Rating data is also often used in TURF, or total unduplicated reach and frequency analysis to find the best items. Both ranks and rates data sets can be elicited and utilized simultaneously to obtain a combined preference estimation. This work develops several techniques of priority evaluation. It considers maximum likelihood of the order statistics for the ranking data with the probit, logit, and multinomial links for the Thurstone scale. Non-linear optimization with the least squares or maximum likelihood objective is introduced for TURF modeling. Combined estimation by both rank and rate data is suggested in singular value decomposition and Geary-Khamis equation approaches. The proposed methods produce priorities among the compared items and probabilities of their choice.
New surgical approaches to ulcerative colitis in children and adults.

Ulcerative colitis continues to be a devastating disease for the child and the young adult. In spite of intensive medical therapy with sulfasalazine and corticosteroids, the majority of patients with universal ulcerative colitis will ultimately require a total colectomy. The standard operation of a total proctocolectomy and a permanent end ileostomy is probably still the best procedure for the definitive management of this disease because all diseased tissue is removed with this operation; however, the resultant abdominal stoma can create significant psychological trauma in many of these patients. For that reason, sphincter-saving operations were introduced in 1933 but were only marginally successful until 1977, when renewed interest in the endorectal pull-through occurred. Since that time, several centers around the world have gained significant experience with the endorectal procedure, with or without the use of an ileal reservoir. Although the ileal reservoir appears to have certain advantages over the straight endorectal pull-through, the procedure also is associated with a significant number of complications and is a far more complicated technical exercise. The experience at the University of Michigan with the straight endorectal pullthrough procedure in patients with ulcerative colitis and familial polyposis during the period from 1977 to 1984 is herein reported. All of the patients in our series are continent and experience a median stool frequency of 6 per 24 hours 1 year after the procedure. Patient satisfaction has been excellent with the majority of patients preferring their lifestyle without an ileostomy to that experienced with an ileostomy. At the present time, we can strongly recommend the endorectal pullthrough procedure to all patients with ulcerative colitis.
Waking up from Coronary Bypass Surgery and One Eye does not Move Right

Introduction Complications of coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) include acute oculomotor nerve palsy secondary to ischemic stroke and pituitary apoplexy. These can present with impairment of extraocular muscle function as well as involvement or sparing of the pupil.
EFFECTS OF NON‐PRICE EXPORT PROMOTION: SOME EVIDENCE FOR COTTON*

An Annington-type trade model is estimated to determine the effects of government-subsidized export promotion on the demand for U.S. cotton in the Pacific Rim. Results show a significant relationship between promotion expenditures and U.S. market share in four of the six countries examined. One of the two countries exhibiting a non-significant effect had very low promotion expenditures, suggesting that a minimal level of funding may be necessary to achieve a market response. The hypothesis that export promotion has a carryover period lasting beyond one year in general is supported by the data. The question of the economic impacts of export promotion on domestic producers and taxpayers must await additional research.
Thermostabile Polymere. II. Polycyclotriphosphazenamide (Polykondensate aus 2,2,4,6-Tetrakis-(dimethylamido)-4,6-dichloro-cyclotriphosphazen und aromatischen Diaminen)

Durch Polykondensation von 2,2,4,6-Tetrakis-(dimethylamido)-4,6-dichlorocyclotriphosphazen und aromatischen Diaminen in siedendem Pyridin entstehen hochmolekulare Polymere. Die Polykondensate sind in organischen Losungsmitteln loslich und durch Heispressen bei 150 bis 200°C zu Formkorpern verarbeitbar. Beim Erhitzen auf 250°C spalten die Polymeren Dimethylamin ab und bilden dabei Schaumkorper, die bis ca. 550°C thermostabil sind. Die geschaumten Produkte besitzen eine sehr gute Druckfestigkeit. Die Polymeren sind evtl. verwendbar als Flammschutzmittel, Ablationsmaterialien und Isolierstoffe. Polycondensation of 2.2.4.6-tetrakis-(dimethylamido)-4.6-dichloro-cyclotriphos-phazene and aromatic diamines in boiling pyridine yields high-molecular weight polymers. The polycondensates are soluble in organic solvenst and can be moulded at temperatures between 150 and 200°C. When the polymers are heated at 250°C, dimethylamine is abstracted and foamed plastics are formed, which are thermostable at temperatures up to, say, 550°C. The foamed products have a very good compressive strength. The polymers may possibly be used as fire-retarding agents, ablative and insulating materials.
Postoperative Renal Failure in Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm (TAAA) Repair Using Simple Cross-Clamp Technique and 4-Degree Centigrade Renal Perfusion

Aortic diameter (mm) 20 mm distal to LMC Trauma 30.5 4.5 <.0001 Dissection 38.4 4.8 Aneurysm 36.5 4.9 Distance (mm) from LMC to LCC <.0001 Trauma 103.8 16.7 Dissection 126.5 16.2 Aneurysm 116.6 18.4 IA to CA <.0001 Trauma 244.7 23.6 Dissection 280.5 31.1 Aneurysm 306.3 40.1 LCC to CA <.0001 Trauma 238.4 22.5 Dissection 274 29 Aneurysm 298.3 35.3 CA to LRA 0.07 Trauma 34.7 12 Dissection 39.7 14 Aneurysm 39 12.6 Take-off angle at IA, <.0001 Trauma 72.5 20.5 Dissection 56.6 16 Aneurysm 53.9 16.5 Take-off angle at LCC, <.0001 Trauma 64.6 16.5 Dissection 51.6 13.5 Aneurysm 51.4 11.6 Clock position of IA <.0001 Trauma 12:39 29’ Dissection 12:11 31’ Aneurysm 12:26 30’ Clock position of LCC <.0001 Trauma 12:04 21’ Dissection 11:47 25’ Aneurysm 11:58 21’
Laser-based particle protection system for spacecraft in low-earth orbit

A particle deflector operating on the principle of laser-induced ablation may eliminate collisions between spacecraft and small debris in low earth orbit. A practical system is constrained to deflecting particles up to a few grams mass with velocities up to 10 km/s. Fundamental concerns for such a system include particle detection and tracking, beam formation, beam steering, and energy coupling to the target. The limiting technology is the detection and tracking system, which must located fast moving (10 km/s) objects 1 cm or smaller in diameter at distances greater than 1 km. We show that a 2000 J laser beam can deflect at 10 mrad a 1-g particle approaching at 10 km/s--adequate to protect a modest sized (approximately 10 m) space structure if the particle is intercepted while still 1 km away. Methods for delivering large optical power densities onto a small (approximately 1 cm) target over moderate (1000 m) distances are proposed.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Adiponectin modulates oxidative stress-induced autophagy in cardiomyocytes.

Diastolic heart failure (HF) i.e., “HF with preserved ejection fraction” (HF-preserved EF) accounts for up to 50% of all HF presentations; however there have been no therapeutic advances. This stems in part from an incomplete understanding about HF-preserved EF. Hypertension is the major cause of HF-preserved EF whilst HF-preserved EF is also highly associated with obesity. Similarly, excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), i.e., oxidative stress occurs in hypertension and obesity, sensitizing the heart to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, inducing autophagic type-II programmed cell death and accelerating the propensity to adverse cardiac remodeling, diastolic dysfunction and HF. Adiponectin (APN), an adipokine, mediates cardioprotective actions but it is unknown if APN modulates cardiomyocyte autophagy. We tested the hypothesis that APN ameliorates oxidative stress-induced autophagy in cardiomyocytes. Isolated adult rat ventricular myocytes were pretreated with recombinant APN (30µg/mL) followed by 1mM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) exposure. Wild type (WT) and APN-deficient (APN-KO) mice were infused with angiotensin (Ang)-II (3.2mg/kg/d) for 14 days to induced oxidative stress. Autophagy-related proteins, mTOR, AMPK and ERK expression were measured. H2O2 induced LC3I to LC3II conversion by a factor of 3.4±1.0 which was abrogated by pre-treatment with APN by 44.5±10%. However, neither H2O2 nor APN affected ATG5, ATG7, or Beclin-1 expression. H2O2 increased phospho-AMPK by 49±6.0%, whilst pretreatment with APN decreased phospho-AMPK by 26±4%. H2O2 decreased phospho-mTOR by 36±13%, which was restored by APN. ERK inhibition demonstrated that the ERK-mTOR pathway is involved in H2O2-induced autophagy. Chronic Ang-II infusion significantly increased myocardial LC3II/I protein expression ratio in APN-KO vs. WT mice. These data suggest that excessive ROS caused cardiomyocyte autophagy which was ameliorated by APN by inhibiting an H2O2-induced AMPK/mTOR/ERK-dependent mechanism. These findings demonstrate the anti-oxidant potential of APN in oxidative stress-associated cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension-induced HF-preserved EF.
Evaluation of Renal Function After Major Renal Injury: Correlation With the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Injury Scale

Purpose: In this study we evaluated the effect of major kidney injury on renal function.Materials and Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted of all patients who sustained renal trauma between 1977 and 2008 at San Francisco General Hospital, and underwent post-injury dimercapto-succinic acid renal scan (67). Decrease in renal function was defined as the absolute percentage difference between the affected and unaffected kidney on dimercapto-succinic acid scan. Univariate (Spearman rank correlation) and multivariate (linear regression) analyses of the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma renal injury grade, patient age, mechanism of injury (blunt vs penetrating), side of injury, treatment used (nonoperative vs surgery), shock, gender, presence of gross hematuria, serum creatinine on hospital admission, postoperative complications and associated injuries were performed.Results: Of the 67 renal injuries 23 (34%) were managed nonoperatively. There were 43 (64%) injuries due to...
Comparison of Information-Dependent Acquisition, SWATH, and MSAll Techniques in Metabolite Identification Study Employing Ultrahigh-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry

Sensitive and selective liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analysis is a powerful and essential tool for metabolite identification in drug discovery and development. An MS2 (or tandem, MS/MS) mass spectrum is acquired from the fragmentation of a precursor ion by multiple methods including information-dependent acquisition (IDA), SWATH (sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment-ion spectra), and MSAll (also called MSE) techniques. We compared these three techniques in their capabilities to produce comprehensive MS2 data by assessing both metabolite MS2 acquisition hit rate and the quality of MS2 spectra. Rat liver microsomal incubations from eight test compounds were analyzed with four methods (IDA, MMDF (multiple mass defect filters)-IDA, SWATH, or MSAll) using an ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography–qudrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC–Q-TOF MS) platform. A combined total of 227 drug-related materials (DRM) were detected from all eight test article incubat...
Scaling down the plant condition number scales up the size of uncertainty

It is shown for a special case that design limitations due to an ill-conditioned plant are invariant under scaling even though the size of the condition number is not. The argument is as follows. The standard design problem utilized to study ill-conditioned plants is a robust performance problem. One cannot study robust performance without descriptions of the modeling uncertainty and of the performance goals. These descriptions must necessarily be stated in the same set of units as those used to describe the plant. Changing the plant description by changing units also changes the description of the uncertainty and performance goals. A careful analysis reveals that the robustness difficulty therefore remains the same. >
Expression, purification, and crystallization of meso-diaminopimelate dehydrogenase from Corynebacterium glutamicum.

The gene encoding the meso-diaminopimelate dehydrogenase (DAPDH) from Corynebacterium glutamicum was overexpressed and purified to homogeneity. Crystals of the binary DAPDH-NADP+ complex were obtained from solutions of polyethylene glycol 8000, 100 mM sodium cacodylate, pH 6.5, and 150–300 mM Mg(OAc)2. The crystals diffract to 2.2 A, belong to the orthorhombic space group P21, and contain two molecules per asymmetric unit. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
In vitro tarnish of dental amalgams

1. Tuccillo-Nielsen tarnish test in an effective screening device for dental amalgams. 2. The gamma phase appears to be more tarnish prone in conventional dental amalgams than gamma 1 phase. Although gamma 2 appeared to be tarnish prone, it was difficult to discriminate this phase because of the porosity in the amalgams. 3. The copper-rich phases are the most tarnish prone in high-copper amalgams. Gross examinations of amalgam from additive systems show spotty tarnish, whereas more uniform tarnish appearance is observed in amalgams from single-composition alloys. 4. The amalgams can be graded for in vitro tarnish performance in selected groups like the additive systems and the single-composition alloys.
Country-of-Origin Effects for Uni-National and Bi-National Products

This study examines the effects of country-of-origin and brand name cues on consumer evaluations of uni-national and bi-national products and estimates the perceived values of such cues. From personal interviews with a regional quota sample of household residents, the study found the salience of country-of-origin in product evaluations under within-subject experimental design. Finally, managerial implications are discussed in regards to international branding and sourcing strategies.
Whose Place Is This Anyway? The Israeli Separation Barrier, International Activists and Graffiti

: [in focus, place, Israeli-Palestinian conflict, graffiti, solidarity, social justice, Israeli Separation Barrier]
Far Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy of Matrix-Isolated Species

For some years now, a number of research laboratories have been interested in obtaining the far infrared spectra of matrix-isolated molecules. High temperature chemists, for example, have been concerned with observing low frequency vibrational motions of a variety of species generated from Knudsen ovens. The observation of these low frequency (bending) modes can be critical in the determination of the molecular structure and consequently the accuracy of thermodynamic functions which are determined. This application has been the subject of a recent review. Other areas of interest requiring the use of far infrared techniques include the study of the pure rotational spectra of matrix-isolated hydrogen halides, the study of impurity-induced lattice modes in molecular crystals, and the study of transition metal halides.
Three-dimensional imaging and recognition of microorganisms using computational holography

In this keynote address, we introduce three-dimensional (3D) sensing, visualization and recognition of microorganisms using microscopy-based single-exposure on-line (SEOL) digital holography. A coherent Mach-Zehnder interferometer records Fresnel diffraction field by a single on-line exposure to generate a microscopic digital hologram. Complex amplitude distribution is numerically reconstructed by the inverse Fresnel transform at arbitrary depth planes. After the reconstruction of volumetric complex images, 3D biological micro-objects are segmented and features are extracted by Gabor-based wavelets. The graph matching technique searches predefined 3D morphological shapes of reference biological microorganisms. Preliminary experimental results using sphacelaria alga and tribonema aequale alga are presented.
Environmental factors affecting heavy oil recovery in the midcontinent (Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma) USA☆

Abstract Thermal enhanced oil recovery (TEOR) of shallow heavy oil by cyclic steam injection or steamflooding is a commercial technology that has evolved over the past 30 years. Although TEOR may have adverse effects on the environment, these can be mitigated by careful management of standard oil field practices during TEOR process implementation. Poorly plugged old wells, natural fracturing, vertical communication between oil reservoirs and underground aquifers, and impact on air quality are a few of the environmental factors under consideration that may limit production of the midcontinent heavy oil resources. Air quality conditions and legislation are compared to those in California, which has air quality standards that are more stringent than those of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Early in the life of determining the feasibility of TEOR for a specific site, the combined resources of engineering, geological and economic feasibility, process design, and environmental assessment must be coordinated to determine the environmental impact of process implementation.
An explicit finite difference approach for the Mindlin plate analysis

Abstract An explicit finite difference method for the analysis of plates subjected to dynamic loads is presented. The theoretical approach is based on the Mindlin plate theory which includes the effects of shear deformation and rotatory inertia. Such a tool will enable the analyst to study plate vibration when higher response modes are to be considered. A stability criterion for the numerical approach is given, the method is then illustrated by an example, and a comparison to the classical plate theory is presented.
Professional Trends of the California Diet Technician Registered

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To identify the current practice and growth opportunities of Diet Technicians Registered in California. Design 385 surveys were sent to Diet Technicians Registered (DTR) in California. The survey consisted of nine questions relating to education, job functions, growth potential, job satisfaction and salary range. Of the 385 surveys sent, 374 were delivered, 99 were completed and returned (26% return rate). Subject All DTRs statewide, members and non-members of the American Dietetic Association (ADA). Results Most DTRs have Associate Degrees in nutrition related fields, and have completed an ADA approved diet technician program. Major areas of practice are clinical and food service management. Primary responsibilities include screening, menu modification, food preferences, education and counseling patients, documentation in medical records, monitoring food quality and patient satisfaction, and computer data entry. Developing an improved working relationship with Registered Dietitians (RD) was expressed. The majority of DTRs surveyed indicated limited or no advancement opportunities. Conclusion Overall, respondents felt positive about the profession. Many would prefer less clerical and increased clinical responsibilities including patient contact, nutrition counseling, and charting. The development of a team approach with the RD will increase job satisfaction and overall status of the DTR position. With the changing health care environment, advancement opportunities of the profession should continue to improve.
Raman Shift Calibration of a Compact Multichannel Spectrometer

Calibration of the Raman shift scale of a compact spectrometer with a charge-coupled device (CCD) array detector is examined. Argon and neon line spectra are used as wavelength standards, and a shift standard is used to track changes in the wavelength of the doubled Nd:YAG laser line. A method is described to introduce controlled shifts of spectra relative to the detector elements. Excellent precision, on the order of 0.05 cm-1, is achieved in measuring Raman shift values over a period of several weeks. The abscissa accuracy, examined with the use of both Raman lines of known shift and atomic line wavelengths, is considerably poorer than the precision. The likely origins of this discrepancy are discussed.
An Aerodynamic Data System for Small Hovering Fixed-Wing UAS

Small fixed-wing UAS that are able to hover combine the station keeping abilities of a rotary wing platform and the extended range of conventional aircraft. Current autopilots for these vehicles rely on inertial measurements plus airspeed to transition from forward flight to hover, accumulating appreciable position error during the transition. Once in hover, a combination of inertial and GPS data is used for station keeping. By combining additional real-time aerodynamic data with traditional inertial measurements, the aircraft can maintain high angle-of-attack operation for controlled slow flight and execute forward/vertical flight transitions closer to stall. Such a capability can expand the autonomous maneuver repertoire as well as improve accuracy at which existing maneuvers are conducted. This paper describes the design, implementation, and testing of a small-scale aerodynamic data system augmenting a traditional inertial navigation system. Collected aerodynamic data includes angle of attack, sideslip angle, airspeed, and pressure distribution along the wing chord. Wind tunnel tests verify the calibrated air-data probe can measure angles of attack from -75° to 75° and sideslip angles from -45° to 45°. The aerodynamic-inertial data system was incorporated into a Funtana hobbyist airframe with thrust exceeding weight. Flight test results from a series of forward-hover transitions are presented, along with requisite guidance and flight control laws for autonomous operation.
A new approach to describe oil absorption in fried foods: a simulation study

The mechanism of oil absorption of tortilla chips during cooling was analyzed using capillary pressure theory. The experimental and theoretical results obtained with this mechanistic model agreed well. Computer simulations were made to determine the effect of different process conditions on the final product oil content. The results show higher oil content for tortilla chips with higher initial moisture content, smaller radius, lower cooling air temperature, and higher interfacial tension.
Machiavellian Democracy: Controlling Elites with Ferocious Populism

This essay demonstrates that Niccolo Machiavelli’s political thought addresses the deficiencies of two opposite poles of contemporary democratic theory: As do formal or minimalist approaches, he specifies electoral mechanisms for elite control; and similar to substantive or civic culture approaches, he encourages more direct and robust modes of popular participation. On these grounds, I cull from Machiavelli’s Discourses a theory of democracy in which the populace selects the elites who will hold office but also constantly patrols them through extraelectoral institutions and practices, such as the tribunes of the people, public accusations, and popular appeals. Machiavelli adds to these institutional features of popular government an important cultural dimension: The people should despise and mistrust elites, and they should actively confront the injustice that elite governing inevitably entails. Finally, I explore the ramifications of this theory for debates over elite accountability in contemporary democratic theory.
Staff stress in contemporary jails: Assessing problem severity and the payoff of progressive personnel practices

Abstract The presence of a high level of workplace stress among carefully recruited and monitored personnel could signify that the long-term return on selection and training resources invested in employees of podular, direct supervision jails could be jeopardized as staff either leave employment or withdraw psychologically from their work environment. Despite the suspected scale of this problem, however, there is little direct empirical evidence available as to the extent of staff stress problems in such jails. Using survey and organizational profile data from five podular direct supervision jails, the extent of stress occuring is estimated and some likely causes are isolated. Evidence indicating that the adoption of progressive personnel practices produces positive outcomes with respect to the incidence of turnover and workplace stress is presented.
Analysis of network address shuffling as a moving target defense

Address shuffling is a type of moving target defense that prevents an attacker from reliably contacting a system by periodically remapping network addresses. Although limited testing has demonstrated it to be effective, little research has been conducted to examine the theoretical limits of address shuffling. As a result, it is difficult to understand how effective shuffling is and under what circumstances it is a viable moving target defense. This paper introduces probabilistic models that can provide insight into the performance of address shuffling. These models quantify the probability of attacker success in terms of network size, quantity of addresses scanned, quantity of vulnerable systems, and the frequency of shuffling. Theoretical analysis shows that shuffling is an acceptable defense if there is a small population of vulnerable systems within a large network address space, however shuffling has a cost for legitimate users. These results will also be shown empirically using simulation and actual traffic traces.
Effect of deferred treatment of supracondylar humeral fractures

Abstract Purpose Timing of surgery remains a controversial topic in the treatment of the supracondylar humeral fracture. In our institution, patients are not brought to theatre after midnight, except in the ‘life or limb' situation. We hypothesised that time to surgery has no significant influence on complication rate with supracondylar fracture of the humerus. Methods A retrospective review was performed of all patients who required operative intervention for supracondylar fractures of humerus between 2004 and 2006. Patients' charts were assessed for demographic details, fracture type, time to theatre and complications. Statistical comparisons were performed between different fracture grades. Results We identified 124 supracondylar fractures of humerus that required operative intervention between 2004 and 2006. Fractures were mainly treated with operative manipulation with medial and lateral crossed K-wire fixation. Gartland III and flexion type fractures had a significantly shorter time to surgery than Gartland II ( p p =0.68). Most common complications identified were ulnar nerve palsy and AIN palsy. Conclusions We have found no difference in complication rates when treatment of supracondylar fractures is delayed. Supracondylar fractures which are not grossly displaced, have no neurovascular deficit or risk of skin compromise, can be safely deferred without an increased risk of complication. Operative treatment of supracondylar fractures can be delayed until the next morning, except in the ‘life or limb' situation.
The role of insulin in chondrogenesis

The ATDC5 chondrogenic cell line is typically induced to differentiate by exposure to insulin at high concentration (10 microg/ml, approximately 1600 nM). Differentiation can also be induced by physiological concentrations of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I). Unlike previous reports, we observed a stimulation of differentiation, as measured by collagen X expression and Alcian Blue staining for proteoglycan synthesis, upon exposure to insulin at concentrations (10-50 nM) consistent with signaling via the insulin receptor. Analysis of lysates from proliferating and hypertrophic ATDC5 cells demonstrated that exposure to 50 nM insulin induced tyrosine phosphorylation of insulin receptors but not IGF-I receptors or hybrid receptors. In contrast to the potent effects of IGF-I to stimulate both ATDC5 proliferation and differentiation, insulin was not as potent as IGF-I as a proliferating agent but more selectively a differentiating agent. Consistent with this result, insulin was less potent than IGF-I in inducing activation of the Erk1/Erk2 mitogenic signaling pathway. Furthermore, Erk pathway inhibition did not enhance the differentiating effects of insulin as it does in the case of IGF-I exposure. Extending our observations to fetal rat metatarsal explants, we observed significant stimulation of bone growth by 50 nM insulin. This could be accounted for by a disproportionate stimulatory effect on growth of the hypertrophic zone. The proliferative zone was not significantly affected. Based on our results in both ATDC5 cells and metatarsal explants, we conclude that the insulin functioning through insulin receptor has a dominant effect as an inducer of chondrocyte differentiation. These results support assignment of a physiological role for this hormone in linear bone growth.
Limit laws of a sequence determined by a random difference equation governing a one-compartment system

Abstract Random sequences which embody an additive and multiplicative structure are of both theoretical and practical interest. The limiting behavior of such sequences sheds light on the retention of a contaminant in an organism after a long period of time. We consider the theoretical aspects of the limiting behavior of these sequences. We give general conditions for the existence of limiting laws of the sequence { Y n } determined by Y n = U n + V n Y n −1 , where {( U n , V n )} is a given sequence of random variables. In the special case when { U n },{ V n } are mutually independent a general result is given. Further, necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a solution to the functional equation satisfied by the Laplace transform of the limiting law are given. Some illustrations of the solutions of the functional equation are discussed.