cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Schistosoma mansoni: Topochemical features of cercariae, schistosomula, and adults☆

Abstract The teguments of developing and mature cercariae, recently transformed, and 1-wk-old schistosomula and adult worms were examined for the ultrastructural location of macromolecular carbohydrates and polyelectrolytes. The surface of mature cercariae within sporocysts and cercariae released from the snail is covered by a filamentous coat which reacts with cytochemical reagents for the demonstration of vicinal glycols, but neither the coat nor the surface of the tegument plasmalemma binds cationic colloidal iron at low pH. Upon penetrating mammalian skin, the cercaria sheds its surface coat; the tegument surface of newly transformed schistosomula, older schistosomula and adult worms stains en bloc with acidic colloidal iron, as does the tegument plasmalemma of mature cercariae if the overlying filamentous coat is first removed by physicochemical means. The cercarial coat thus serves to mask anionic groups at the surface of the tegument plasmalemma which become functionally exposed after penetration of the mammalian host. The distribution of colloidal iron binding sites coincides with those for the carbohydrate-complexing phytohemmagglutnin, concanavalin A, which suggests that these membrane-fixed anions are acid mucopolysaccharides, glycoproteins or glycolipids. Carbohydrate-containing material was also localized within membrane-bound vesicles of the tegument matrix and perikarya of developing cercariae and postcercarial schistosomes, suggesting that surface mucosubstances contributing to the tegument glycocalyx of these worms are elaborated, at least in part, by the tegument itself.
The photoarrangement of alpha-santonin is a single-crystal-to-single-crystal reaction: a long kept secret in solid-state organic chemistry revealed.

α-Santonin 1 is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene lactone of significant historical interest. Not only is its solid-state photochemistry the oldest documented for an organic compound, but it is also the first drug to have been formulated in the United States. Not surprisingly, while its photochemical behavior in solution has been relatively well-established, its solid-state photoreactivity has not been thoroughly characterized. In this communication, with a combination of polarizing microscopy, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, spectroscopic methods, chemical trapping, and product analyses, we have confirmed a remarkable sequence of events that includes three consecutive solid-state reactions. The first step is a remarkably phase-selective and site-specific single-crystal-to-single photorearrangement of 1 into the previously postulated cyclopentadienone intermediate 2. The second step is a highly stereoselective Diels−Alder reaction to form a transient topochemical dimer, and the third step is an intram...
Effect of moisture content on the development of carboxylic acids in traditional maize dough fermentation

Maize dough samples containing 45, 52, 65 and 80% initial moisture were fermented over a 3 day period, and the rate of development of carboxylic acids was determined. The desired volatile: non-volatile acids ratio of 0.16, titratable acidity of 2.4 mg NaOH g−1 sample, and pH of 3.7 could be achieved with only the 52% moisture samples. A slow rate of acid production and an early onset of mould growth was observed in samples with 45% moisture. The 65 and 80% moisture samples developed high concentrations of acids with resultant high degree of sourness. Acetic, propionic and butyric acids were the major volatile acids in samples with moisture contents over 52%.
MIMO-FEA Active Vibration Suppression of a Satellite Using an Adaptive Composite Thruster Platform

Adaptive or intelligent structures which have the capability for sensing and responding to their environment promise a novel approach to satisfying the stringent performance requirements of future space missions. This research focuses on a finite element analysis (FEA) multi-input-multi-output (MIMO) approach for vibration suppression and precision position control of a satellite thruster and its structure, due to the thruster-firing, employing an intelligent composite thruster platform. This smart platform connects the thruster to the structure of the satellite and has three active struts and one active central support with piezoelectric stacks as actuators, and each has a sensor at its base. It also has an active circular composite plate as the top device plate with nine embedded piezoelectric patches that six of them are back-to-back and function as three actuators pairs and three of them are placed next to the bottom actuators and function as sensors. Here, the predominant modes of the structure are first determined. In the FEA method, a finite element harmonic analysis was employed to develop a vibration suppression scheme, which was then used to study the vibration control of the satellite structure using the vibration suppression capabilities of the intelligent platform mounted on the satellite. In this approach, the responses of the structure to a unit external force as well as unit internal piezoelectric control voltages are first determined, individually. The responses are then assembled in a system of equation as a coupled system and then solved simultaneously to determine the control voltages and their respective phases for the system actuators for a given external disturbance. Next, this technique was applied to the vibration suppression of the satellite frame as well as its thruster simultaneously as a coupled problem and the results are discussed. This approach is an effective technique for the design of smart structures with complex geometry to study their active vibration suppression capabilities and effectiveness. The entire system has ten actuators: four piezoelectric stack actuators and three pairs of piezoelectric patch actuators.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
A Model for Designing and Evaluating Product Information

While a variety of models and methodologies exist for the design of products, few have been advanced for the design of product accompanying information such as safety warnings and instructions. This paper presents a model for designing and evaluating product information. The model has five primary stages: Product Type Investigations, Product Use and User Group Research, Information Design Criteria and Prototypes, Evaluation and Revision, and Post Sale Evaluations. The model emphasizes the need to: a) design product information in conjunction with the design of the product itself; b) analyze product features which affect user expectations and behaviors; c) identify the hazards associated with use and likely misuse of the product; d) research user perceptions and expectations regarding product functioning and hazard characteristics, and e) evaluate product information using methods and criteria consistent with the goals of each component of product information.
Effect of abortion protesters on women's emotional response to abortion.

Abstract Background Little is known about women's experiences with and reactions to protesters and how protesters affect women's emotional responses to abortion. Study Design We interviewed 956 women seeking abortion between 2008 and 2010 at 30 US abortion care facilities and informants from 27 of these facilities. Results Most facilities reported a regular protester presence; one third identified protesters as aggressive towards patients. Nearly half (46%) of women interviewed saw protesters; of those, 25% reported being “a little” upset, and 16% reported being “quite a lot” or “extremely” upset. Women who had difficulty deciding to abort had higher odds of reporting being upset by protesters. In multivariable models, exposure to protesters was not associated with differences in emotions 1 week after the abortion. Conclusion Protesters do upset some women seeking abortion services. However, exposure to protesters does not seem to have an effect on women's emotions about the abortion 1 week later.
Haloacetonitriles vs. Regulated Haloacetic Acids: Are Nitrogen-Containing DBPs More Toxic?

Haloacetonitriles (HANs) are toxic nitrogenous drinking water disinfection byproducts (N-DBPs) and are observed with chlorine, chloramine, or chlorine dioxide disinfection. Using microplate-based Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell assays for chronic cytotoxicity and acute genotoxicity, we analyzed 7 HANs: iodoacetonitrile (IAN), bromoacetonitrile (BAN), dibromoacetonitrile (DBAN), bromochloroacetonitrile (BCAN), chloroacetonitrile (CAN), dichloroacetonitrile (DCAN), and trichloroacetonitrile (TCAN). The cytotoxic potency (%C1/2 values) ranged from 2.8 μM (DBAN) to 0.16 mM (TCAN), with a descending rank order of DBAN > IAN ≈ BAN > BCAN > DCAN > CAN > TCAN. HANs induced acute genomic DNA damage; the single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) genotoxicity potency ranged from 37 μM (IAN) to 2.7 mM (DCAN). The rank order of declining genotoxicity was IAN > BAN ≈ DBAN > BCAN > CAN > TCAN > DCAN. The accompanying structure−activity analysis of these HANs was in general agreement with the genotoxicity rank order. Thes...
Above-inversion profiles of moisture and ozone observed during FIRE

Data from the First ISCCP (International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project) Regional Experiment (FIRE) were combined with NOAA synoptic products, a trajectory analysis scheme, and satellite imagery to document the existence and causes of layers of air characterized by high ozone concentrations and low specific-humidity values, as well as layers of air characterized by high specific-humidity values and low ozone concentrations above the summertime marine stratocumulus cloud deck off the coast of California. The ozone concentrations and specific-humidity values observed were larger than those expected in the region just above the subsidence inversion off the California coast. The layers with high ozone concentrations appear to be extruded from the middle or upper troposphere. The layers with high specific-humidity values result from frontal lifting associated with surface cyclones upstream of the marine stratocumulus cloud regime. The impact of these layers on the marine stratocumulus cloud regime is also analyzed using boundary-layer model simulations. 16 refs., 11 figs.
USE OF A SHORT ANALYTICAL COLUMN FOR THE ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF DEGRADATION PRODUCTS OF ICI 200 880, A PEPTIDIC ELASTASE INHIBITOR

Abstract This paper describes a new approach to maximize sample throughput in an analytical column for the isolation of dilute peptidic compounds. This approach exploits the chromatographic behavior of peptidic compounds which is a large change in retention relative to the change in mobile phase strength. A a result, a small decrease in solvent strength gives added retention without the loss of solubility of the sample. This same behavior also allows the use of an injection solvent which is only slightly weaker than the mobile phase to concentrate the peaks at the head of the column in a solvent overload mode. A short column allows the use of large capacity factors while maintaining reasonable elution times. In addition, cleanup of the column can be accomplished by a single injection of strong solvent in the large loop. This approach was applied to the isolation and identification of degradation products of a peptidic elastase inhibitor, ICI 200 880.
Educating for Lives of Purpose: College Student Volunteers Reflect on High School Service

In this article, college students who have demonstrated a deep commitment to community service in college reflect upon the role that their service experiences in high school did (and did not) play in laying the groundwork for their present commitment to service-work and social action.
Distributed object computing: DEVS-based modeling and simulation

This research examines an approach to modeling and simulating distributed object computer systems in terms of distributed software components mapped onto a set of interconnected network nodes. The overall model of a distributed object computing system has clearly separated hardware and software components enabling co-design engineering. The software component modules form a distributed cooperative object (DCO) model to represent interacting software objects. The hardware component models forma loosely coupled network (LCN) model of processing nodes, network gates, and communication links interconnecting them. The software objects of the DCO are then `distributed' across the processors of the LCN to form a distributed object computing system model. This approach facilitates design analysis of each of these components separately as well as the combined systems behavior. The Discrete Event System Specification formalism is used to implement dynamic models of the DCO components, LCN components, and experimental frames to analyze system behavior.
Cross-Gender Perceptions of Corrections Officers in Gender-Segregated Prisons

Abstract This paper explores the similarities and differences between women and men correctional officers in an all men and an all women prison in a Midwestern state. The similarities outnumbered the differences, and it was determined that the acceptance of women correctional officers by their male counterparts in both prisons was high. The acceptance of women officers in the corrections field appears to have improved. However, women correctional officers perceive their male counterparts as being better supervisors and counselors of both men and women inmates. Acceptance of women correctional officers working in an all male facility was higher by men officers than by the other women correctional officers. Many of the fears of women working in corrections documented from the 1970s seemed to have dissipated. There was a lack of comprehensive demographic data on women correctional officers and on whether there is a difference between those who serve at a women's prison and those who serve in an all men's prison.
Intermediate nonlinear regimes of line-tied g mode and ballooning instability

A theoretical framework has been developed to describe the nonlinear regimes of line-tied g modes in slab geometry and ballooning instabilities in toroidal configurations. Recent experimental observation and numerical simulations demonstrate a persistence of ballooning-like filamentary structures well into the nonlinear stage of edge localized mode (ELM) activity in H-mode plasmas. Our theory is based on an expansion using two small scale lengths, the mode displacement across magnetic flux surfaces and the mode width in the most rapidly varying direction, both normalized by the equilibrium scale length. When the mode displacement across the magnetic flux surface is much less than the mode width in the most rapidly varying direction, the mode is in the linear regime. When the mode displacement grows to the order of the mode width in the rapidly varying direction, the plasma remains incompressible to lowest order, and the Cowley–Artun regime is obtained. The detonation regime, where the nonlinear growth of the mode could be finite-time singular, is accessible when the system is sufficiently close to marginal stability. At higher levels of nonlinearity, the system evolves to the intermediate nonlinear regime, when the mode displacement across the magnetic flux surface becomes comparable to the mode width in the same direction. During this phase, the nonlinear growth of the mode in the parallel and perpendicular directions are coupled, and sound wave physics contributes to nonlinear stability. The governing equations for the line-tied g mode and the ballooning instability in the intermediate nonlinear regime have been derived. A remarkable feature of the nonlinear equations is that solutions of the associated local linear mode equations continue to be valid solutions into the intermediate nonlinear regime in a Lagrangian reference frame. This property has been confirmed in the full ideal MHD simulations of both the line-tied g mode in a shearless slab and the ballooning instability in a tokamak, and may help explain the growth and persistence of the filamentary structures observed in ELM experiments well into the nonlinear phase.
Pedagogy, Intellectuals, and Dissent in the Later Middle Ages: Lollardy and Ideas of Learning

This book is about the place of pedagogy and the role of intellectuals in medieval dissent. Focusing on the medieval English heresy known as Lollardy, Rita Copeland places heretical and orthodox attitudes to learning in a long historical perspective that reaches back to antiquity. She shows how educational ideologies of ancient lineage left their imprint on the most sharply politicized categories of late medieval culture, and how radical teachers transformed inherited ideas about classrooms and pedagogy as they brought their teaching to adult learners. The pedagogical imperatives of Lollard dissent were also embodied in the work of certain public figures, intellectuals whose dissident careers transformed the social category of the medieval intellectual. Looking closely at the prison narratives of two Lollard preachers, Copeland shows how their writings could serve as examples for their fellow dissidents and forge a new rapport between academic and non-academic communities.
A self‐control program for drinking antfcedents: The role of self‐monitoring and control orientation

Assessed the effects of a self-control program on increasing personal control and ameliorating alcohol abuse. Ss attended two groups per week for 3 weeks and were administered the Experienced Control scale (Tiffany, 1967) before and after treatment and on follow-up. All Ss showed increased control over internal stresses across treatment. Internally oriented Ss in the experimental group showed increased control over external stresses, while internals in the control condition showed no change. Self-monitoring externals did not change over treatment, but increased significantly over follow-up. Control externals changed over treatment, but not on follow-up. Internally oriented Ss both monitored frequently and appeared to benefit from the use of self-monitoring of drinking antecedents. Externals showed more indefinite results, as self-monitoring Sc evidenced a slower, somewhat "delayed" increase in adaptive self-control when compared to self-monitoring internals.
SPICE Models for Amorphous Silicon and Polysilicon Thin Film Transistors

We describe physically based analytical models for n‐channel amorphous silicon thin film transistors and for n‐ and p‐channel polysilicon thin film transistors. The models cover all regimes of transistor operation: leakage, subthreshold, above‐threshold conduction, and the kink regime in polysilicon thin film transistors. The models contain a minimum number of parameters which are easily extracted and can be readily related to the structural and material properties of the thin film transistors. The models have been verified for a large number of devices to scale properly with device geometry.
The Carboxy-Terminal Domain of Heat-Shock Factor 1 Is Largely Unfolded but Can Be Induced To Collapse into a Compact, Partially Structured State†

Heat-shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1) is a key regulator of the expression of heat-shock proteins during the heat-shock response. The C terminus of HSF1 (CT) contains both the regulatory and transcriptional activation domains. Predictors of natural disordered regions analysis predicts and our study demonstrates that CT is predominantly natively unfolded under physiological conditions but can be induced to fold into a number of structured states under different conditions. Under physiological conditions, CT exhibits a very low abundance of secondary and tertiary structures as observed by circular dichroism, no hydrophobic core as monitored by the 6-p-toluidino-2-naphthalenesulfonic acid (TNS)-binding assay, a large hydrodynamic radius as measured by size-exclusion chromatography−high-performance liquid chromatography, and high structural flexibility as probed by limited proteolysis. However, secondary-structure content significantly increases at high temperatures, in acidic pH, or in the presence of tri...
Subgroup separability of the figure 8 knot group

Abstract It is shown that the fundamental groups of certain non-positively curved 2-complexes have the property that their quasiconvex subgroups are the intersections of finite index subgroups. As a consequence, every geometrically finite subgroup of the figure 8 knot group is the intersection of finite index subgroups. The same result holds for many other prime alternating link groups.
How prices matter in politics: the returns to campaign advertising

The apparent ineffectiveness of incumbent campaign spending in congressional elections is one of the enduring puzzles in the political economy literature. Previous work in this area has assumed that advertising prices are uniform across congressional districts, and therefore that campaign spending alone is a good proxy for campaign advertising. However, candidates in different districts face widely different advertising prices and this paper shows that differences in advertising costs are one source of the apparent ineffectiveness of campaign spending. Accounting for the price of advertising, this paper shows that campaign spending is productive for both incumbents and challengers.
Central pontine myelinolysis and lithium toxicity.

AbstractFabisiak et al. (1) report a case of central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) in a patient taking lithium. CPM was previously mentioned in this journal as a likely consequence of a rapid fall of serum lithium levels after a gradual rise to high levels (2, 3). Such rapid lithium fall is associated with neurological injury (4). The physiological background is that 1) intracellular sodium levels are about 7 meq/L, 2) lithium displaces sodium intracellular 1 and 3) CNS intracellular lithium levels are 50% above serum levels. Accordingly, a rapid decrease in lithium levels might cause intracellular hyponatremia, which would be rapidly corrected because there is no actual shortage of sodium.
Voltage-dependence of ion permeation in cyclic GMP-gated ion channels is optimized for cell function in rod and cone photoreceptors.

The kinetics of the photocurrent in both rod and cone retinal photoreceptors are independent of membrane voltage over the physiological range (−30 to −65 mV). This is surprising since the photocurrent time course is regulated by the influx of Ca2+ through cGMP-gated ion channels (CNG) and the force driving this flux changes with membrane voltage. To understand this paradigm, we measured Pf, the fraction of the cyclic nucleotide–gated current specifically carried by Ca2+ in intact, isolated photoreceptors. To measure Pf we activated CNG channels by suddenly increasing free 8-Br-cGMP in the cytoplasm of rods or cones loaded with a caged ester of the cyclic nucleotide. Simultaneous with the uncaging flash, we measured the cyclic nucleotide–dependent changes in membrane current and fluorescence of the Ca2+ binding dye, Fura-2, also loaded into the cells. We determined Pf under physiological solutions at various holding membrane voltages between −65 and −25 mV. Pf is larger in cones than in rods, but in both photoreceptor types its value is independent of membrane voltage over the range tested. This biophysical feature of the CNG channels offers a functional advantage since it insures that the kinetics of the phototransduction current are controlled by light, and not by membrane voltage. To explain our observation, we developed a rate theory model of ion permeation through CNG channels that assumes the existence of two ion binding sites within the permeation pore. To assign values to the kinetic rates in the model, we measured experimental I-V curves in membrane patches of rods and cones over the voltage range −90 to 90 mV in the presence of simple biionic solutions at different concentrations. We optimized the fit between simulated and experimental data. Model simulations describe well experimental photocurrents measured under physiological solutions in intact cones and are consistent with the voltage-independence of Pf, a feature that is optimized for the function of the channel in photoreceptors.
β-Catenin Is Expressed Aberrantly in Tumors Expressing Shadow Cells Pilomatricoma, Craniopharyngioma, and Calcifying Odontogenic Cyst

We studied the beta-catenin immunohistochemical profile in tumors expressing shadow cells: pilomatricoma, 10 cases; calcifying odontogenic cyst, 6 cases; and craniopharyngioma, 9 cases. There was strong membranous, cytoplasmic, and nuclear staining of the immature basaloid cells in all of these tumors. Shadow cells were negative in all tumors. It has been documented that rising levels of free beta-catenin drive the formation of complexes with T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor (TCF-Lef) and up-regulate the wingless-Wnt cell-cell signals. The end result is an abnormality of beta-catenin degradation and, thus, a buildup of free beta-catenin in the cytoplasm and/or nucleus, resulting in the stimulation of cellular proliferation and/or inhibition of cell death. beta-Catenin seems to have an important role in the oncogenesis of these tumors. The similar pattern of keratinization in these tumors and the similar pattern of beta-catenin immunoreactivity in the cytoplasm and the nucleus are important findings. It seems that the activation of a common cellular pathway, namely Wnt-beta-catenin-TCF-Lef, has a role in the pathogenesis of these tumors. The latter could be related to their shared method of keratinization or shared dysfunction of the cellular adhesion complex leading to tumorigenesis.
Expression of C-reactive protein in myointimal hyperplasia in a porcine arteriovenous graft model

Background. The migration and proliferation of myofibroblasts are prominent features of myointimal hyperplasia associated with haemodialysis polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts. Since C-reactive protein (CRP) possesses functional activities on vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), we examined the expression of this protein in PTFE grafts early in the course of myointimal hyperplasia development in a porcine model. Method. Bilateral carotid-jugular PTFE loop grafts were placed in pigs. After euthanasia at 2–4 weeks, the graft-venous and graft-arterial anastomoses and the adjacent blood vessels were excised en bloc and subjected to immunohistochemical analyses and in situ hybridization for CRP. The ability of CRP to stimulate proliferation was examined in cultured porcine venous SMCs using the bromodeoxyuridine assay after incubation for 48 h. Results. Severe myointimal hyperplasia was found at 3 weeks after graft placement at both graft-venous and graft-arterial anastomoses. Compared to normal tissues, staining for CRP was far more intense in cells in the hyperplastic lesions at both anastomoses, which also stained positive for smooth muscle a-actin. In situ hybridization showed that these cells also expressed mRNA for CRP. At 1mg/ml, CRP increased the proliferation of cultured porcine venous SMCs by 45.9 � 5.8%. Conclusion. CRP was produced in venous and arterial SMCs and its expression was enhanced in the hyperplastic lesions associated with arteriovenous PTFE grafts in a porcine model. Together with the ability of CRP to promote SMC proliferation, these data suggest that CRP might play a pathogenic role in the development of myointimal hyperplasia in PTFE grafts.
High-Gain, High-Efficiency Integrated Cavity-Backed Dipole Antenna at Ka-Band

The design and measured performance of an integrated dielectric-filled cavity-backed dipole antenna are presented. For structures integrated into high-epsivr substrates, antennas of this type exhibit decreased surface wave loss and increased air-side directive gain relative to planar antennas. A single-lobe beam with high gain was achieved by designing the backing cavity to excite predominantly TE10 aperture fields. The antennas are suitable for direct integration on dielectric package surfaces for system-in-a-package (SiP) implementations, and can be fabricated using single-side processing. Prototype cavity-backed dipole antennas were measured at Ka band and demonstrated 10 dB boresight directivity and 92% peak radiation efficiency. The impact of cavity design parameters and scalability to MMIC applications are evaluated numerically using three-dimensional (3-D) electromagnetic simulations
The role of Homer1c in metabotropic glutamate receptor‐dependent long‐term potentiation

Group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR1/5) play a role in synaptic plasticity and they demonstrate direct interactions with the neuronal Homer1c protein. We have previously shown that Homer1c can restore the plasticity deficits in Homer1 knockout mice (H1-KO). Here, we investigated the role of Homer1c in mGluR-dependent synaptic plasticity in wild-type mice, H1-KO, and H1-KO mice overexpressing Homer1c (KO+H1c). We used a form of plasticity induced by activation of mGluR1/5 that transforms short-term potentiaion (STP) induced by a subthreshold theta burst stimulation into long-term potentiation (LTP). We have shown that although acute hippocampal slices from wild-type animals can induce LTP using this stimulation protocol, H1-KO only show STP. Gene delivery of Homer1c into the hippocampus of H1-KO mice rescued LTP to wild-type levels. This form of synaptic plasticity was dependent on mGluR5 but not mGluR1 activation both in wild-type mice and in KO+H1c. mGluR1/5-dependent LTP was blocked with inhibitors of the MEK-ERK and PI3K-mTOR pathways in KO+H1c mice. Moreover, blocking Homer1c–mGluR5 interactions prevented the maintenance of LTP in acute hippocampal slices from KO+H1c. These data indicate that Homer1c–mGluR5 interactions are necessary for mGluR-dependent LTP, and that mGluR1/5-dependent LTP involves PI3K and ERK activation.
VLSI design of a bit-serial word-parallel sorter

The design implementation of a sequential circuit which compares and sorts eight words simultaneously is presented. Each word is an unsigned integer of K bits, where K can be any positive integer. The words are fed into the sorter starting with the most significant bit of each word. On each clock pulse one bit from each word is received by the sorter and they are routed to their proper destination. The sorter is implemented using complementary metal-oxide-silicon (CMOS) technology. >
Markov Decision Processes with Sample Path Constraints: The Communicating Case

We consider time-average Markov Decision Processes MDPs, which accumulate a reward and cost at each decision epoch. A policy meets the sample-path constraint if the time-average cost is below a specified value with probability one. The optimization problem is to maximize the expected average reward over all policies that meet the sample-path constraint. The sample-path constraint is compared with the more commonly studied constraint of requiring the average expected cost to be less than a specified value. Although the two criteria are equivalent for certain classes of MDPs, their feasible and optimal policies differ for many nontrivial problems. In general, there does not exist optimal or nearly optimal stationary policies when the expected average-cost constraint is employed. Assuming that a policy exists that meets the sample-path constraint, we establish that there exist nearly optimal stationary policies for communicating MDPs. A parametric linear programming algorithm is given to construct nearly optimal stationary policies. The discussion relies on well known results from the theory of stochastic processes and linear programming. The techniques lead to simple proofs of the existence of optimal and nearly optimal stationary policies for unichain and deterministic MDPs, respectively.
Combined in vivo effect of A12, a type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor antibody, and docetaxel against prostate cancer tumors.

Purpose: A human type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor antibody (A12) has been shown to effectively inhibit human xenograft tumor growth, including androgen-dependent and androgen-independent prostate tumors. Docetaxel, either as a single agent or combined with others, has shown a survival benefit in prostate cancer patients. Based on these data, we investigated the combined in vivo effect of A12 and docetaxel on human androgen-independent and osseous prostate tumor growth. Experimental Design: To study human androgen-independent prostate cancer model, LuCaP35V tumors were implanted s.c. into castrated severe combined immunodeficient mice. When tumors reached about 100 mm3, animals were treated with vehicle control docetaxel (10 or 20 mg/kg) and docetaxel in combination with A12 (40 μg/kg) for 4 weeks. To study human osseous prostate cancer model, LuCaP 23.1 tumors were implanted intratibiae. When serum prostate-specific antigen reached 5 to 10 ng/mL, treatments were initiated. Results: A12 markedly augmented the inhibition of docetaxel on tumor growth. When docetaxel is combined with A12, the inhibition of tumor growth continued after treatment cessation, which was associated with continued apoptosis and decreased proliferation of tumor cells. Gene expression profiles indicated that the posttreatment suppression of tumor growth may be due to enhanced negative regulation of cell cycle progression– and/or cell survival–associated genes, some of which have been shown to induce resistance to docetaxel. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that targeting type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor can enhance the therapeutic effect of docetaxel on advanced prostate cancer. Our findings also suggest a potential mechanism to improve the treatment efficacy of docetaxel in prostate cancer.
Garbage In, Garbage Out Waste Disposal Incorporated: An Audit Case

Waste Disposal Incorporated (WDI) became a major player in both the domestic and international trash collection industries during the late 1990s by aggressively acquiring a large number of local haulers. The company also diversified into recycling, water treatment, energy, power, and lawn care. This rapid expansion initially resulted in substantial profits and a skyrocketing stock price for WDI. The financial market's desire for continued growth put intense pressure on the company to meet higher profit expectations. Increased government regulation of the waste industry and growing competition from smaller garbage haulers hindered WDI's ability to meet those expectations. When extensive cost‐cutting measures failed to achieve their desired results, WDI's management turned to other strategies to keep the company at the top of the industry. In this case, you will follow Jane Sweeny, an audit manager employed by Alfred Peterson LLP, as she completes her duties as manager of the WDI 1999 year‐end audit. Includ...
Optimal shifted estimates of human-observer templates in two-alternative forced-choice experiments

For performing simple detection and discrimination tasks in image noise, human observers are often modeled by a cross-correlation between the image and an observer template followed by the injection of the observer's internal noise. This paper is concerned with estimating this template using the two-alternative forced-choice (2AFC) experimental paradigm. The basic idea behind the estimation procedure is to average the noise fields off the images used in a 2AFC experiment with a weight that depends on whether the observer got the trial correct or incorrect. We describe a method that produces unbiased estimates of the observer template up to a constant of proportionality under the linear cross-correlation model. The method proposed here is different from some previous methods in the way it assigns weights to the noise fields and we show that the resulting errors in the estimated template are minimized. We also propose and validate a formula for approximating the error covariance associated with the template estimates.
Longitudinal electromagnetic fields in an aperiodic structure

The propagation of the electromagnetic wave in an aperiodic disk-loaded accelerating section has been studied using the field-matching technique. A matrix formalism similar to that of the scattering theory is applied. The method developed allows study of an arbitrary number of irises and radial space harmonics. Reflection and transmission coefficients of the structure, its wave and coupling impedances, beam loading, and other characteristics have been calculated as a function of the wave frequency. The modifications of the reflection coefficient by couplers have also been studied. The results of calculations for the detuned accelerating structure designed as SLAC for the Next Linear Collider, and consisting of over 200 cells, are given as an example. >
Hybrid phosphorescence and fluorescence native spectroscopy for breast cancer detection.

Fluorescence and phosphorescence measurements are performed on normal and malignant ex vivo human breast tissues using UV LED and xenon lamp excitation. Tryptophan (trp) phosphorescence intensity is higher in both normal glandular and adipose tissue when compared to malignant tissue. An algorithm based on the ratio of trp fluorescence intensity at 345 nm to phosphorescence intensity at 500 nm is successfully used to separate normal from malignant tissue types. Normal specimens consistently exhibited a low I345/I500 ratio ( 15). The ratio analysis correlates well with histopathology. Intensity ratio maps with a spatial resolution of 0.5 mm are generated in which local regions of malignancy could be identified.
Socioeconomics in supply chain management: a case study analysis of facility location decisions with GIS

Facility location decisions are considered the most critical part of the supply chain and are vital for efficient and effective flow of goods and materials. Engineers and planners continue to recognise the uncertainty regarding future conditions with facility location decisions and realise the fact that transportation decisions are often on short notice in response to facility changes. Environmental justice assessment has traditionally focused on identifying distributive effects to protected populations. No quantitative comparisons of supply chain facility location decisions on protected populations have been reported in the literature. The objective of this research is to develop a multi-objective framework for integrating the socioeconomic effects of facility location decisions on protected populations. Various socioeconomic factors are integrated with geographic information systems to determine the extent of impact of supply chain facility locations on protected populations. A case study is performed to examine the robustness of the developed methodology.
Aquaculture Feed buoy Control - Part 2: Telemetry, Data Handling and Shore-Based Control

A critical part of an aquaculture operation is feeding the fish the right amount of food at the right rate at the right time, and monitoring this operation and the environmental conditions at the site. The UNH Open Ocean Aquaculture demonstration project is working on its third automated, remote feeding buoy for offshore aquaculture. A central part of the buoys is the control system, consisting of (1) a computer and software in the feed buoy controlling operations, (2) the two-way telemetry link between the offshore buoy and shore station with its supporting computers and Internet links back to UNH and the (3) the user friendly interface at a control center. All the activities monitored by the controller in the feed buoy are stored in files each hour in the buoy to document what has happened. These files are relayed hourly to shore by a 900 MHz spread spectrum telemetry link. When this data is received on shore it is stored on a computer, and at regular intervals sent to the UNH campus for archiving and study. Also, the real-time data is relayed via an internet link to the control center, so that the current drawn, amount of feed supplied, etc. can be monitored. New files that control the timing of activities and control an activity can be created at the control center to alter a programmed activity based on observations of the offshore system status. These files are automatically sent to the coastal shore station and relayed to the feed buoy at the start of the next hour's cycle. Thus, feed buoy activities can be regularly altered in response to monitoring of the fish. The system also monitors such environmental quantities as the depth of the cage with a pressure sensor and the temperature of the water at three depths in the fish cage to warn if it is too warm for the fish, and thus provide a record of the environment around the fish. A system of video cameras in the fish cage observes the fish before, during and after feeding to evaluate the feeding program and fish activity. The video images are captured, compressed, and telemetered to shore to the control center. While the 900 MHz link can handle the routine transfer of data and files, this link is not able to provide the continuous real-time images desired by operations managers. A 2.4 GHz radio utilizing 802.11b protocol with a 24 db gain antenna on shore could not reliably telemeter data the 7.5 nm from the buoy to shore. The third feed buoy is evolving using all of the previously learned knowledge and incorporating several new technologies that will aid in the difficult task of offshore aquaculture. Most importantly, new telemetry equipment that utilizes the current 900 MHz spread spectrum band at higher bandwidth will yield a robust communications package that will allow for better control and monitoring of the offshore feed systems
Power: a first-class architectural design constraint

Power is a design constraint not only for portable computers and mobile communication devices but also for high-end systems, and the design process should not subordinate it to performance.
SEROLOGICAL DISTINCTION OF MUTANTS B6.C-H(z1) AND B6.M505 FROM STRAIN C57BL/6

A quantitative serological difference was found between strains Hz1 and M505 carrying mutant H-2 haplotypes ba and bd, respectively, and the original strain B6(H-2b). The finding suggests that the mutations occurred in the H-2Kb gene, and together with data on MLR and CML challenges the current concept of H-2 regions' involvement in immune reactions.
Using the adjoint method for optimization in a two-dimensional finite volume plasma discharge simulation

A fluid model is used to simulate a plasma discharge in two dimensions. The fundamental equations are discretized using the finite volume method. The discrete adjoint method is used to compute sensitivity derivatives, which can be used to increase or decrease a given cost function. The sensitivity derivatives are verified by comparing with those computed using complex perturbations. Results of the simulation and optimization are given, as well as applications and ideas for further research.
Experimental and postexperimental response to anteriorly directed extraoral force in young Macaca nemestrina

An anteriorly directed extraoral force was applied to the maxillas of four healthy young M. nemestrina monkeys. Experimental, retention, and postretention alterations were evaluated through a combination of cephalometric, histologic, and gross techniques. In view of the results of the present study, the following conclusions can be made: 1. Skeletal remodeling occurs in all circummaxillary sutures following the application of an anteriorly directed extraoral force to the maxilla. The amount of remodeling appears to be proportional to a suture's distance from and orientation to the applied force system. 2. The maxillary complex exhibited a marked anterior positioning with a small amount of counterclockwise rotation during the experimental period. 3. The application of an extraoral force to the maxilia produces compensatory deposition and resorption of bone, not only at the sutural margins but also at the external surface of the bones themselves. 4. It is possible that the experimental appliance transmits its effect to the facial bones adjacent to the maxilla through an alteration in the skull's periosteal envelope. 5. A substantial reorientation of the maxillary complex occurs following the termination of active force, and the degree of relapse or reorientation is directly proportional to the length of stabilization. 6. The dentition, through the periodontal ligament, undergoes approximately four times as much relapse as do the facial bones through their sutural articulations, following a minimal period of stabilization. 7. Extraoral forces applied to the craniofacial complex are transmitted through the maxilla and related midfacial bones, resulting in changes in such deep cranial structures as the cartilaginous synchondroses of the sphenoid bone. 8. Anterior displacement of the maxilla by extraoral traction appears to have a minimal effect on the mandible and the temporomandibular joint. 9. The number of sinusoidal vessels in the sutural ligament tends to increase in those sutures subjected to a tensional force.
Radiation chemistry of polyethylene. XIV. Allyl radical decay kinetics in different types of polyethylene

The decay kinetics of the chain allyl free radical has been studied in the following morphological forms of polyethylene (PE): Marlex bulk film, hydrogenated PE, and extended-chain PE. Coupled with previous work on single-crystalline PE it can be seen that the decay rate is greater the more amorphous the sample. In the Marlex bulk film and hydrogenated PE the decay can be interpreted in terms of a simultaneous fast and slow decay process by means of our Q-function equation, but with rising temperature the decay approximates a single rate process. With extended-chain PE the allyl decay rate does not become appreciable until the melting range is approached. The fraction of allyl radicals decaying by the slow process is 2 to 10 times greater than the fraction of fast decaying radicals. The ratio of the fast decay rate constant to that of the slow rate constant is greater for the bulk Marlex film than for the hydrogenated PE. All ratios decrease with rising temperature. For times up to about 150 min the allyl decay in the extended-chain PE accurately follows a single second-order decay law with a time-independent diffusion controlled reaction rate constant.
Delirium assessment in the critically ill.

To compare available instruments for assessing delirium in critically ill adults that have undergone validity testing and provide clinicians with strategies to incorporate these instruments into clinical practice. Medline (1966–September 2006) was searched using the key words: delirium, cognitive dysfunction, assessment, intensive care unit, and critical illness to identify assessment tools that have been used to evaluate delirium in critically ill adults. A special emphasis was placed on delirium assessment tools that have been properly validated. Data on how these tools have been adopted into clinical practice as well as strategies for clinicians to improve delirium assessment in the ICU are highlighted. Six delirium assessment instruments including the Cognitive Test for Delirium (CTD), abbreviated CTD, Confusion Assessment Method–ICU, Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist, NEECHAM scale, and the Delirium Detection Score were identified. While each of these scales have undergone validation in critically ill adults, substantial differences exist among the scales in terms of the quality and extent of the validation effort, the specific components of the delirium syndrome each address, their ability to identify hypoactive delirium, their use in patients with a compromised level of consciousness, and their ease of use. Incorporation of delirium assessment into clinical practice in the intensive care unit using a validated tool may improve patient care. Clinicians can adopt a number of different strategies to overcome the many barriers associated with routine delirium assessment in the ICU.