cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Violating assumptions with fuzzing

Fuzzing is a highly automated testing technique that covers numerous boundary cases using invalid data (from files, network protocols, API calls, and other targets) as application input to better ensure the absence of exploitable vulnerabilities. Fuzzing lets developers or quality assurance (QA) teams test large numbers of boundary cases when doing so with techniques such as functional testing would be cost prohibitive. Comprehensive negative test cases - those that verify that a product does not do something it shouldn't do, rather than that it does something it is supposed to (positive test cases) - are difficult to construct because the number of possible permutations is astronomical. Yet, fuzzing covers a significant portion of negative test cases without forcing the tester to deal with each specific test case for a given boundary condition.
IRRADIATION AS A POSSIBLE PROTECTION AGAINST THE EFFECTS OF MIDDLE CEREBRAL ARTERY OCCLUSION

Abstract Significantly increased salvage after acute coronary artery occlusion in dogs by prior cardiac irradiation, has been reported by Senderoff and his co-workers. The present experiment was undertaken to see if a similar finding could be obtained in the central nervous system. Left middle cerebral artery occlusion was performed surgically in forty-one dogs. In all of the nonirradiated control animals in which the middle cerebral artery was found to be occluded 4 weeks after surgery, hemiparesis was demonstrated and a pale infarct found on postmortem examination. Of thirteen irradiated animals operated 4 weeks after irradiation and in which the middle cerebral artery occlusion was confirmed, seven exhibited clinical hemiparesis, and an even larger infarct; but all the infarcts were hemorrhagic. The remaining six irradiated animals appeared to have been protected from the expected effects of arterial occlusion; that is, they did not demonstrate the postoperative neurological deficit, and no significant infarct was found.
Synchronization of perturbed sine-Gordon soliton oscillators

We investigate the dynamics of systems composed of perturbed sine-Gordon soliton oscillators coupled through the boundary conditions. The perturbations are a dc forcing term and linear dissipation. The oscillations maintain their indiviudal frequencies for low values of the coupling parameter. However, for particular values of this parameter, the reflections of the solitons at the boundary give rise to radiation exchange which allows spontaneous synchronization. We analyze our results in the light of recent experiments on long Josephson junction oscillators.
Nucleotide and Amino Acid Rhythms in the Chick under Temperature Stress

Abstract EARLIER studies from these laboratories (Squibb, 1964, 1968; Squibb et al., 1968) demonstrated that nucleic and free amino acids have significant within-day oscillations in various avian tissues. Other investigators have observed similar diurnal changes in concentrations and total quantities of some of these cellular components in tissues of other species (Horvath, 1963; Rapoport et al., 1966; Beisel, 1968; Gubin et al., 1968; Feigin et al., 1967). Since the chick is a rapidly growing animal, levels of nucleic and free amino acids may be considered a reflection of the anabolic phase of protein metabolism in this model and as such will be highly sensitive to stress. Constant temperature environments are often used to evaluate the effect of heat stress in man and animals in spite of the fact that under normal conditions such environments are non-existent. It has been postulated (Squibb et al., 1959) that temperature stress is related to the…
Stabilization of Natural Dyes by High Levels of Antioxidants

Natural dyes are normally unstable to photooxidation by UV light. We have measured the stability of a number of natural dyes in combination with high concentrations of antioxidants, excited state quenchers, and UV absorbers. We find that certain combinations, including indigo/BHT, methylene blue/p-benzoquinone, and methylene blue/triethylamine show enhanced stability in solution and/or in thin polymer films. By comparing solutions and films of the mixed components with solutions and films of the antioxidant placed between the dye and UV source, we can show that the effect is not UV screening but is due to some form of intermolecular chemistry. We believe that this effect may account for the high stability of natural dyes in plant tissues, such as the skins of fruit, and may be usable to stabilize natural dyes in foods or textiles, especially if suitable nanoparticle structures can be developed.
Estimating direct groundwater recharge using a simple water balance model – sensitivity to land surface parameters

Periods of below average rainfall in the UK have emphasised the need for reliable estimates of groundwater recharge. Simple water balance models are often used to estimate direct groundwater recharge, but a significant effort is required to determine the land surface parameters. This paper describes a sensitivity analysis of such a model to determine the parameters having the greatest influence on estimates of recharge. The results of varying the vegetation canopy parameters for forest, and permanent and annual short vegetation, were analysed, in addition to varying the parameters of the soil moisture model. There were significant differences between the three land cover types but recharge estimates were relatively insensitive to the vegetation canopy parameters for short vegetation. However, principally due to the inclusion of a model of rainfall interception, recharge estimates were sensitive to the forest canopy parameters. Sensitivity to the parameters of the soil moisture model, particularly the rooting depth, and fractional available water content and fractional field drainable water, was found to be very high.
Decoding of purely compressed-sensed video

We consider a video acquisition system where motion imagery is captured only by direct compressive sampling (CS) without any other form of intelligent encoding/processing. In this context, the burden of quality video sequence reconstruction falls solely on the decoder/player side. We describe a video CS decoding method that implicitly incorporates motion estimation via sliding-window sparsity-aware recovery from locally estimated Karhunen-Loeve bases. Experiments presented herein illustrate and support these developments.
Alterations in deoxyribonucleic acid-bound amino acids after the administration of deoxyribonucleic acid-binding drugs.

Abstract DNA was isolated from liver, kidney, spleen and small intestines of rats treated with high doses of actinomycin D, proflavin, nitrogen mustard (HN2) and mitomycin C. The DNA-associated amino acids differed profoundly in relative and absolute amounts. Treatment in vitro of liver homogenate with one of these drugs (proflavin) did not produce this or any change in the amino acids bound to DNA, which suggests a complex interaction. The changes are not random, since they: (1) are qualitatively and quantitatively reproducible; (2) include both additions and deletions of amino acids; and (3) include an extra ninhydrin-positive component associated with the aromatic amino acids but not found in the residual host proteins. The new amino acid is apparently the same one previously found in certain tumor DNA's. Despite the differences in molecular structure, reported pharmacologic effects, and nature of their interactions with DNA of the four compounds studied, they all produced profound changes in the amount and kind of amino acids bound to DNA so as to suggest that this may be a significant factor in the mechanisms of their action.
Hardware-Based Event Stream Ordering for System-Level Observation Framework

The complexity of embedded systems presents key challenges in observing and analyzing complex hardware and software behavior. System-level observation methods provide in-situ monitoring and analysis of complex system behavior across hardware and software boundaries. Previous system-level observation methods utilized efficient pipelined hardware architectures that provide high throughput for reporting observed events but require significant area resources. Alternatively, an area-efficient round-robin priority-based event stream ordering technique significantly reduces area resources but requires tradeoffs in event stream throughput. We present a hardware-based event stream ordering technique capable of providing high throughput and flexibility in area requirements. This hardware-based event stream ordering technique reduces area requirements by 73.6% with a maximum reduction in event stream throughput of 4.6%.
Comparison of Tolerance and Nutritional Outcome Between a Peptide and a Standard Enteral Formula in Critically Ill, Hypoalbuminemic Patients

Dipeptides have been reported to be more efficiently absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract than free amino acids. The objective of this study was to compare prospectively a peptide enteral formula (PEF) with a standard enteral formula (SEF) for tolerance and nutritional outcome in acutely injured, hypoalbuminemic (less than 3.0 g/dL) patients who require enteral nutrition support. The prevalence of diarrhea and elevated gastric residuals was assessed daily. Prealbumin, transferrin, colloid oncotic pressure, Prognostic Nutritional Index, and nitrogen balance were measured on days 0, 5, and 10 of enteral nutrition support. Forty-one patients received 345 days of enteral nutrition support. Prevalences of diarrhea and elevated gastric residuals were similar between groups. Prealbumin increased and the Prognostic Nutritional Index decreased significantly from baseline at day 10 in both groups. Transferrin increased in both groups, but not significantly. Colloid oncotic pressure increased significantly from baseline at days 5 and 10 in the SEF group and day 10 in the PEF group. Nitrogen balance increased significantly from baseline at days 5 and 10 in each group. The only significant difference between groups was for nitrogen balance at day 10, which was higher in the SEF group. We conclude based upon our selected measurements of tolerance and nutritional outcome PEF seems to offer no advantage over SEF in acutely injured, hypoalbuminemic patients.
Systematic generation of Hamiltonian circuits

For a combinatorial matrix which may specify both directed and nondirected arcs, the paper describes a computer program which generates systematically and exhaustively all the Hamiltonian circuits. Specific application is made to the “traveling salesman” problem.
Poorly differentiated (anaplastic) seminoma of the testis

Anaplastic seminoma constitutes approximately 17% of total experience with seminoma at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Among 25 previously untreated patients, 11 (44%) were clinical Stage I, and 14 (56%) were clinical Stage II or III. Treatment of these 25 patients with the same regimens employed for classical seminoma yielded an overall 80% 5-year apparent cure rate. Survival rates were poor in eight previously treated patients referred with recurrence.
Antiferromagnet-ferromagnet transitions in Ge-rich Gd 5 (Si x Ge 4-x ) alloys induced by composition, magnetic field, and temperature

Temperature and magnetic-field dependences of zero-field-cooled (ZFC) Ge-rich ${\text{Gd}}_{5}({\text{Si}}_{x}{\text{Ge}}_{4\ensuremath{-}x})$ alloys with a distinctly layered crystal structure have been studied. At 4.2 K, alloys with $xl0.1$ show an antiferromagnetic state, which can be irreversibly transformed to a ferromagnetic state by a magnetic field. In contrast, ZFC alloys with $x\ensuremath{\ge}0.1$ already have a ferromagnetic state. All alloys being in ferromagnetic state then exhibit a temperature-induced first-order $\text{ferromagnet}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\text{antiferromagnet}$ transition at ${T}_{tr}$. ZFC ${\text{Gd}}_{5}({\text{Si}}_{x}{\text{Ge}}_{4\ensuremath{-}x})$ alloys with either antiferromagnetic or ferromagnetic initial state at 4.2 K also exhibit a second-order reversible $\text{antiferromagnet}\ensuremath{\leftrightarrow}\text{paramagnet}$ transition at the N\'eel temperature ${T}_{N}\ensuremath{\approx}128\text{ }\text{K}$. Magnetic phase transition induced by a magnetic field at ${T}_{tr}$ is determined by the exchange interactions between Gd magnetic moments located in the nearest slabs rather than those located in the same slab and can be described by Landau model of antiferromagnets. Similar magnetic correlations between Gd magnetic moments in the Ge-rich ${\text{Gd}}_{5}({\text{Si}}_{x}{\text{Ge}}_{4\ensuremath{-}x})$ alloys can be induced either by the internal (composition) or by the external (magnetic field, temperature, and hydrostatic pressure) effects. It is likely that dipole-dipole interactions between magnetically ordered nearest slabs contribute to magnetic phase transitions.
The united atom approximation option in the ISICS program to calculate K-, L- and M-shell cross sections from PWBA and ECPSSR theory

The C program, ISICS [Z. Liu, S. J. Cipolla, Comput. Phys. Commun. 97 (1996) 315], which calculates ionization and X-ray production cross sections using PWBA and ECPSSR theory, has been enhanced by the addition of new options, including the united atom approximation to the binding-energy correction. Other changes will also be briefly described.
All-optical stabilization of a microresonator frequency comb

We demonstrate an optical clock based on stabilization of a microcomb to rubidium optical transitions. The clock’s output is the 33 GHz microcomb line spacing, which is a coherent, integer sub-division of the rubidium reference.
Biochemical and biological effects of nonionic nucleic acid methylphosphonates

Oligodeoxyribonucleoside methylphosphonates with base sequences complementary to the anticodon loop of tRNALys and to the -ACCA-OH amino acid accepting stem of tRNA were prepared by chemical synthesis. Oligodeoxyadenosine methylphosphonates form stable, triple-stranded complexes with both poly(U) and poly(dT). These analogues selectively inhibit cell-free aminoacylation of tRNALys (E. coli) but have no effect on aminoacylation of tRNALys (rabbit). The extent of inhibition is temperature dependent and parallels the ability of the oligomer to bind to poly(U), which suggests that inhibition occurs as a result of oligomer binding to the -UUUU- anticodon loop of tRNALys (E. coli). The failure of the oligodeoxyadenosine methylphosphonates to inhibit tRNALys (rabbit) amino-acylation suggests that there may be a difference between the structure of tRNALys or its interaction with aminoacyl synthetase in the Escherichia coli and rabbit systems. The oligodeoxyadenosine analogues also effectively inhibit polyphenylalanine synthesis in cell-free translation systems derived from both E. coli and rabbit reticulocytes. The extent of inhibition parallels the Tm values of the oligo(A) phosphonate-poly(U) complexes and suggests that the inhibition is a consequence of complex formation with the poly(U) message. Tritium-labeled oligodeoxyribonucleoside methylphosphonates with a chain length of up to nine nucleotidyl units are taken up intact by mammalian cells in culture. All the oligomer analogues tested inhibited, to various extents, colony formation by bacterial, hamster, and human tumor cells in culture.
Effect of Metalaxyl on Mating Type of Phytophthora infestans and P. parasitica

Two single-oospore isolates (1 A1 and 1 A2) of P. infestans formed oospores in sectors when grown on medium containing metalaxyl. Single-zoospore cultures obtained from the oospore sector of either isolate consisted of both A1 and A2 mating type. All the single-zoospore cultures from the non-treated isolates had the same mating type as the parent isolate. Metalaxyl also caused mating type change in 3 A1 isolates of P. parasitica. The conversion of A1 to A2 mating type by metalaxyl in infected host tissues is postulated as a possible origin of A2 isolates of P. infestans in Europe.
Misplaced Priorities: Gutmann’s Democratic Theory, Children’s Autonomy, and Sex Education Policy

This paper offers a critique of the “democratic state of education” proposed by Amy Gutmann in her influential book Democratic Education. In the democratic state of education, educational authority is shared among the state, parents and educational professionals; and educational objectives are geared toward equipping future citizens to participate in what Gutmann calls “conscious social reproduction”—the collective shaping of the future of society through democratic deliberation. Although I agree with some of Gutmann’s broad recommendations for civic education, I have misgivings about the centrality that she gives to conscious social reproduction in her theory of education. I argue that in focusing so intently on the facilitation of conscious social reproduction, Gutmann’s theory makes insufficient room for the basic interests of individual children, and in particular, their prospective interest in autonomy. Gutmann’s considered position on sex education policy—specifically, her willingness to allow local communities to deny their children access to sex education—exemplifies the shortcomings of her theory. Ultimately, her democratic state of education fails to acknowledge the fundamental moral importance of individual flourishing, and the contribution that education can and should make to it.
Outcome of first-trimester exposure to low-dose methotrexate in eight patients with rheumatic disease

Abstract purpose: Methotrexate (MTX), when used to treat malignancy or psoriasis, has been implicated in anecdotal reports as a teratogen or abortifacient in the first trimester of pregnancy. We are unaware of any previous reports that describe the course of gestation and the effect on subsequent offspring in patients treated with low-dose oral MTX for rheumatoid arthritis, and therefore present our experience. patients and methods: We report on eight women experiencing 10 pregnancies. Mean number of weeks of gestation while taking MTX was 7.5 (range 2 to 20 weeks). Outcome of pregnancies included five full-term babies (FTB), three spontaneous abortions (SAB), and two elective abortions. results: There were no significant differences in either the FTB or SAB group when considering risk factors including smoking, alcohol, concomitant medications, and age. One of three in the SAB group had recurrent abortions prior to MTX therapy. All five of the FTB group had uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries. All offspring were of normal height and weight at birth with no physical abnormalities. All children reached growth, development, and intellectual stages normally, and their present mean age is 11.5 years. No observed learning disabilities or medical abnormalities have occurred in any of these children. conclusion: In this uncontrolled study we failed to demonstrate tertogenicity of MTX. However, the possibility of abortion due to MTX use remains.
Phase Studies in BeO–Metal Oxide Systems Using a Porous‐Collector Technique

The phase relations in high-temperature BeO-- metal oxide systems were investigated by means of a porouscollector technique. In this technique, which was found to be applicable to simple eutectic oxide systems with fluid melts, the liquid formed during heating of a wafer-shaped specimen was absorbed in a porous collector. The lowest temperature at which the liquid formed and the material balance were used to establish the eutectic temperature and composition. The eutectics in four binary systems were determined as (1) ZrO/sub 2/-- BeO, 2045 plus or minus 10 deg C, 59 plus or minus 2 mole% BeO, (2) CeO/sub 2/--BeO, 1890 plus or minus 20 deg C, 63 plus or minus 3 mole% BeO, (3) MgO-- BeO, 1860 plus or minus 10 deg C, 69 plus or minus 2 mole% BeO, and (4) MgO-- ZrO/ sub 2/, 2080 plus or minus 10 deg C, 65 plus or minus 3 mole% MgO. Experiments in the ternary system MgO-- ZrO/sub 2/-- BeO indicated an extensive region of solid solubility in the ZrO/sub 2/-rich portion of the system and a eutectic plane at 1720 plus or minus 10 deg C. (auth)
Multiple site return probability of spacecraft from circular and elliptical orbits.

Abstract : The probability of spacecraft returning from circular or elliptical orbits to multiple sites is examined as a function of spacecraft cross-range capabilities and waiting time allowed in orbit. The analysis involves the determination of ascending nodes from which the spacecraft with a given cross-range capability could land at a specified site. The loci of these nodes form coverage belts along the equator. A procedure for determining the magnitude and locations of these belts is presented. The series of ascending belts generated by the waiting of spacecraft in orbit and the availability of multiple sites overlap in some of their coverages. A discrete set of regions of accessibility along the equator is thus created and, in turn, determines the probability of return. The concept of coverage belts and regions of accessibility is useful for missions in which the ascending node and the in-track position of the spacecraft are random at the time of recall. Sample results of return probability are presented. (Author)
The Coexistence of the Mind and the Mall: Tension in contemporary humour columns in American Vogue

As a longtime feminist and a university professor as well, I know many people expect me to dress more like Susan B. Anthony than Diane Sawyer, but I just can’t seem to adjust. I’m a woman who never saw an earring I didn’t like, who has as many back issues of Vogue as Victorian Studies, whose idea of bliss is an afternoon in the makeup department at Saks ... For years, I’ve been trying to make the life of the mind coexist with the day at the mall, and to sneak the femme back into feminist. (Elaine Showalter, Vogue) [1]
Association Between Plasma Endothelin-1 Levels and Cheyne-Stokes Respiration in Patients With Congestive Heart Failure

Study objectives Elevated plasma endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels have been reported in association with hypoxia and congestive heart failure (CHF). Furthermore, Cheyne-Stokes respiration-central sleep apnea (CSR-CSA) has been found to correlate with the degree of pulmonary hypertension and the severity of CHF; however, the association between ET-1 levels and CSR-CSA has not been investigated previously. Setting Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Interventions We studied 46 consecutive patients with CHF (left ventricular function ≤ 40%) who underwent right-heart catheterization and overnight polysomnography. Thirty-nine patients completed the study. Sixteen patients (41%) had CSR-CSA, 5 patients (13%) had obstructive apnea, and 18 patients (46%) had no sleep-disordered breathing. Circulating plasma ET-1 levels were assayed in patients with CSR-CSA and in patients with no sleep-disordered breathing using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Results ET-1 levels were significantly elevated in patients with CSR-CSA (mean ± SD, 5.4 ± 1.3 pg/mL) compared to those without central apnea (3.9 ± 1.1 pg/mL; p r = 0.66, p r = 0.56, p r = 0.66, p Conclusions We conclude that elevated plasma ET-1 levels are linked to the severity of CSR-CSA. Whether ET-1 represents an important pathogenic factor in CSR-CSA or marker of its occurrence requires further evaluation.
The Role of Ethnogenesis and Organization in the Development of African-Native American Settlements: an African Seminole Model

Archaeological research on a nineteenth-century settlement called Pilaklikaha addresses gaps in the theory of African-Native American everyday life, community composition, and social relations. By integrating analyses of human organization and cultural transformation, it is possible to construct dynamic sociocultural scenarios for African Seminole settlements that existed in what became Florida. In this region, residents and visitors encountered diverse world views that originated in Africa and the Americas. African Seminole cultural beliefs and practices were the product of both newly created and ancestral traditions. The ways that these beliefs were practiced affected a broad range of exchanges in the spheres of kinship, spirituality, ceremonialism, politics, economics and anti-slavery resistance. Within these realms, people of African and Native American descent recognized the importance of autonomy, cooperation, and alliance.
An engineered α1 integrin-binding collagenous sequence

Collagen is an extracellular matrix structural component that can regulate cellular processes through its interaction with the integrins, α1β1, α2β1, α10β1, and α11β1. Collagen-like proteins have been identified in a number of bacterial species. Here, we used Scl2 from Streptococcus pyogenes serotype M28 strain MGAS6274 as a backbone for the introduction of discrete integrin-binding sequences. The introduced sequences GLPGER, GFPGER, or GFPGEN did not affect triple helix stability of the Scl (Streptococcal collagen-like) protein. Using ELISA and surface plasmon resonance, we determined that Scl2GLPGER and Scl2GFPGER bound to recombinant human α1 and α2 I-domains in a metal ion-dependent manner and without a requirement for hydroxyproline. We predicted a novel and selective integrin-binding sequence, GFPGEN, through the use of computer modeling and demonstrated that Scl2GFPGEN shows specificity toward the α1 I-domain and does not bind the α2 I-domain. Using C2C12 cells, we determined that intact integrins interact with the modified Scl2 proteins with the same selectivity as recombinant I-domains. These modified Scl2 proteins also acted as cell attachment substrates for fibroblast, endothelial, and smooth muscle cells. However, the modified Scl2 proteins were unable to aggregate platelets. These results indicate that Scl2 is a suitable backbone for the introduction of mammalian integrin-binding sequences, and these sequences may be manipulated to individually target α1β1 and α2β1.
From sparks to spikes: information processing in the electrosensory systems of fish

Recent work on electrosensory systems in fish has combined traditional neuroethological approaches with quantitative methods for characterizing neural coding. These studies have shed light on general issues in sensory processing, including how peripheral sensory receptors encode external stimuli and how these representations are transformed at subsequent stages of processing.
Meta-analysis of nanoparticulate paclitaxel delivery system pharmacokinetics and model prediction of associated neutropenia.

Nanoparticulate paclitaxel carriers have entered clinical evaluation as alternatives to the Cremophor-based standard Taxol® (Cre-pac). Their pharmacokinetics (PK) is complex, and factors influencing their pharmacodynamics (PD) are poorly understood. We aimed to develop a unified quantitative model for 4 paclitaxel carriers that captures systems-level PK, predicts micro-scale PK processes, and permits correlations between carrier properties and observed PD. Data consisting of 54 PK profiles and 574 observations were extracted from 20 clinical studies investigating Cre-pac, albumin-(A-pac), liposome-(L-pac), and tocopherol-(T-pac) nanocarriers. A population-PK approach was used for data analysis. All datasets were simultaneously fitted to produce a unified model. Model-based simulations explored relationships between predicted PK and myelosuppression for each formulation. The final model employed nonlinear drug-binding mechanisms to describe Cre-pac and a delayed-release model for A-pac, L-pac, and T-pac. Estimated drug-release rate constants (h−1): Cre-pac (5.19), L-pac (1.26), A-pac (0.72), T-pac (0.74). Simulations of equivalent dosing schemes ranked neutropenia severity (highest to lowest): T-pac~Cre-pac>L-pac~A-pac and predicted remarkably well the clinically-observed relationships between neutropenia and free drug exposure relative to a threshold concentration. Paclitaxel disposition was well-described for all formulations. The derived model predicts toxicodynamics of diverse paclitaxel carriers.
Percent absent end‐diastolic velocity in the umbilical artery waveform as a predictor of intrauterine fetal demise of the donor twin after selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels in twin–twin transfusion syndrome

Objective Absent end-diastolic velocity (AEDV) in the umbilical artery of the donor twin is a known risk factor for intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD) of this fetus after selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels (SLPCV) for twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). The aim of this study was to assess the proportion of time, expressed as a percentage, of the cardiac cycle spent in AEDV (%AEDV) as a predictor of IUFD of the donor. Methods All patients referred for possible SLPCV underwent complete preoperative staging evaluation including Doppler assessment of the umbilical artery. %AEDV was calculated retrospectively as 100 × (time of the cycle spent in AEDV divided by duration of total cardiac cycle). Patients without AEDV were considered to have a %AEDV of 0. Follow-up Doppler studies were performed 16–24 h after SLPCV. IUFD of the donor was recorded if the donor twin died any time prior to delivery. Results Of 401 patients undergoing SLPCV, 127 had AEDV. Preoperative AEDV of the donor twin was associated with an increased risk of IUFD of the donor (40.9% vs. 14.2%, P 30 was associated with a 4.3-fold increase in the risk of IUFD of the donor (95% CI, 1.4–12.7), a sensitivity of 77% and a negative predictive value of 81.3%. Logistic regression showed that %AEDV, but not number of anastomoses, placental location, presence of artery-to-artery anastomoses or the presence or absence of EDV was associated significantly with IUFD of the donor. Conclusion %AEDV is a novel Doppler parameter in the assessment of patients with TTTS. %AEDV, rather than AEDV alone, is a significant risk factor for IUFD of the donor twin and %AEDV > 30 is associated with an increased risk of IUFD of the donor in TTTS patients treated with SLPCV. Assessment of %AEDV should be considered part of the preoperative evaluation of TTTS patients. Copyright © 2007 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Instructional Practice in the Context of Converging Policies: Teaching Mathematics in Inclusive Elementary Classrooms in the Standards Reform Era.

In this study, the author explores elementary mathematics instruction in the context of standards-based reform and special education policy. Based on observation of inclusive classrooms and interviews with 12 teachers, the author finds that instructional practice was only somewhat consistent with the policy messages to include students with disabilities under the standards umbrella and to individualize instruction. Moreover, the author suggests three ways in which teachers respond to converging policies: skimming the surface of both policies without engaging the ideological core of either, finding the common ground while remaining true to the spirit of both policies, and privileging one policy at the expense of the other.
Determining the number of kanbans and lotsizes in a generic kanban system : a simulated annealing approach

A generic kanban system that is designed for non-repetitive manufacturing environments is described. The purpose of this paper is to determine the number of kanbans and lot sizes needed to achieve the best system performance. System objectives include minimizing the cycle time, minimizing operation cost, and minimizing capital loss. A multiattribute utility function is constructed and a modified simulated annealing algorithm is proposed to search the maximal utility value. To show this algorithm at work, we compared the results with those from the traditional algorithm. The utility values found by both algorithms are insignificantly different; however, the computational time required by the modified algorithm is much less. The modified algorithm is feasible to solve our problem. Finally, a heuristic for generating good initial seed is developed to further improve the efficiency of the modified algorithm and an example is given to illustrate its benefits.
13-year survival comparison of percutaneous and open nephroureterectomy approaches for management of Transitional cell carcinoma of renal collecting system : Equivalent outcomes

ABSTRACT Background and Objective: Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the renal collecting system traditionally has been managed by open nephroureterectomy with en bloc resection of a bladder cuff. However, for a select patient population with a solitary kidney or bilateral disease, the morbidity and mortality associated with chronic renal insufficiency and dialysis is deterring. In these situations, a more conservative approach such as antegrade percutaneous resection should be considered. The long-term disease-free outcome of percutaneous management in comparison with open nephroureterectomy has not been previously reported. We evaluated our experience with two surgical approaches to treat upper tract TCC: percutaneous resection and nephroureterectomy/nephrectomy to assess the clinical efficacy of these surgical modalities. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively identified 162 patients who had clinically localized TCC of the upper urinary tract. Records were reviewed to identify those with 13-year f...
On efficient computation and asymptotic sharpness of Kalantari’s bounds for zeros of polynomials

We study an infinite family of lower and upper bounds on the modulus of zeros of complex polynomials derived by Kalantari. We first give a simple characterization of these bounds which leads to an efficient algorithm for their computation. For a polynomial of degree n our algorithm computes the first m bounds in Kalantari's family in O(mn) operations. We further prove that for every complex polynomial these lower and upper bounds converge to the tightest annulus containing the roots, and thus settle a problem raised in Kalantari's paper.
Rapidly Destructive Autoimmune Labyrinthitis Associated With Ulcerative Colitis.

This 16-year-old boy with a history of ulcerative colitis presented to the emergency room with an acute onset left greater than right sensorineural hearing loss. His symptoms were preceded by vertigo and tinnitus that began 2 weeks prior. The ulcerative colitis was incompletely controlled at the time, with increased fecal frequency and urgency. Evaluation for infections was negative. Autoimmune serology was nonspecific with only atypical antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody positivity. An audiogram at initial presentation revealed moderate right and profound left hearing loss. A combination of intravenous methylprednisolone (2 mg/kg) and intratympanic dexamethasone injections (0.8 mL of 4 mL) initiated during the hospital visit and continued over the course of 2 years improved hearing to some extent. He eventually acquired a hearing aid for the right ear and a cochlear implant for the left. His initial magnetic resonance imaging (Fig A, B) revealed avid enhancement of the left cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canal as well as the left vestibular nerve in the fundus. Slight left facial nerve enhancement was also apparent. On the right, less severe enhancement was noted in the cochlea and vestibular nerve. The morphology of the left inner ear structures was intact (Fig B). A follow-up magnetic resonance imaging scan one year later showed obliterated left posterior semicircular canal (Fig C). Slight decrease in caliber of the right horizontal semicircular canal was also seen. Discussion
Robust clock tree synthesis with timing yield optimization for 3D-ICs

3D integration has new manufacturing and design challenges such as timing corner mismatch between tiers and device variation due to Through Silicon Via (TSV) induced stress. Timing corner mismatch between tiers is caused because each tier is manufactured in independent process. Therefore, inter-die variation should be considered to analyze and optimize for paths spreading over several tiers. TSV induced stress is another challenge in 3D Clock Tree Synthesis (CTS). Mobility variation of a clock buffer due to stress from TSV can cause unexpected skew which degrades overall chip performance. In this paper, we propose clock tree design methodology with the following objectives: (a) to minimize clock period variation by assigning optimal z-location of clock buffers with an Integer Linear Program (ILP) formulation, (b) to prevent unwanted skew induced by the stress. In the results, we show that our clock buffer tier assignment reduces clock period variation up to 34.2%, and the most of stress-induced skew can be removed by our stress-aware CTS. Overall, we show that performance gain can be up to 5.7% with our robust 3D CTS.
Evaluating the effects of sample processing treatments on alkalinity measurements

summary The concentration of bicarbonate, the dominant anion in river water, is typically calculated using measured alkalinity concentrations. Alkalinity concentrations also are necessary for analytical charge balance, carbonate speciation, and PCO2 calculations. Although the Gran titration is the standard method for measuring alkalinity, previous studies have varied in how water samples have been processed prior to analysis. The purpose of this study was to determine whether variation in filtering, refrigeration, and sample storage time leads to statistically significant differences in alkalinity concentrations in oxic, low-turbidity surface waters and groundwaters ranging from undersaturated to supersaturated with respect to calcite. Samples were collected from the Blue Ridge and Piedmont Provinces of northwestern South Carolina and the Valley and Ridge Province of eastern Tennessee. Each sample was analyzed using four processing treatments: filtered and refrigerated, filtered and unrefrigerated, unfiltered and refrigerated, and unfiltered and unrefrigerated (n = 3 analyses per treatment combination). All replicates were analyzed within 24 h using the Gran titration method. Samples then were reanalyzed after 17–194 days of storage to determine if storage time affects alkalinity measurements. Overall, alkalinity concentrations ranged from 0.8 to 107 mg/L CaCO3. Statistically significant differences among the treatments and significant interactions between filtration and refrigeration were limited. For samples in which treatment means differed significantly or in which interactions were significant, differences generally were less than 10% and probably of little biogeochemical importance. For all but one sample locality, storage time did not affect alkalinity. Our results show that for oxic waters that have low concentrations of DOC and reduced metals, filtration, refrigeration and storage time are unlikely to affect measured alkalinity concentrations. However, additional research is needed to determine the degree to which sample processing treatment is important to interpreting the alkalinity concentrations of DOC- and metal-rich samples.
Modeling and simulation of progressive penetration of multilayered ballistic fabric shielding

In this paper a simulation technique is developed to estimate the number of ballistic fabric sheets needed to stop an incoming projectile. Such sheets are free of any fortification by a resin. The computational approach is designed so that it can be easily implemented by a wide audience of researchers in the field, without resorting to more involved finite element formulations. This is achieved by taking advantage of the intrinsic characteristics of such fabric structures. Since the deformations of the fabric are (a) finite, (b) nonlinearly inelastic due to progressive fiber degradation and (c) dynamically coupled to the projectile, the system is highly nonlinear. A temporally adaptive, iterative scheme is developed to solve the system. Theoretical issues pertaining to convergence of the algorithm are investigated. Large-scale 3-D numerical examples are then given to illustrate the approach in determining the number of sheets needed to stop a projectile.
Supporting synchronous social q&a throughout the question lifecycle

Synchronous social Q&A systems exist on the Web and in the enterprise to connect people with questions to people with answers in real-time. In such systems, askers' desire for quick answers is in tension with costs associated with interrupting numerous candidate answerers per question. Supporting users of synchronous social Q&A systems at various points in the question lifecycle (from conception to answer) helps askers make informed decisions about the likelihood of question success and helps answerers face fewer interruptions. For example, predicting that a question will not be well answered may lead the asker to rephrase or retract the question. Similarly, predicting that an answer is not forthcoming during the dialog can prompt system behaviors such as finding other answerers to join the conversation. As another example, predictions of asker satisfaction can be assigned to completed conversations and used for later retrieval.In this paper, we use data from an instant-messaging-based synchronous social Q&A service deployed to an online community of over two thousand users to study the prediction of: (i) whether a question will be answered, (ii) the number of candidate answerers that the question will be sent to, and (iii) whether the asker will be satisfied by the answer received. Predictions are made at many points of the question lifecycle (e.g., when the question is entered, when the answerer is located, halfway through the asker-answerer dialog, etc.). The findings from our study show that we can learn capable models for these tasks using a broad range of features derived from user profiles, system interactions, question setting, and the dialog between asker and answerer. Our research can lead to more sophisticated and more useful real-time Q&A support.
Short-Term Performance of the Transcatheter Melody Valve in High-Pressure Hemodynamic Environments in the Pulmonary and Systemic Circulations

Background—The Melody valve is approved for percutaneous pulmonary valve replacement in dysfunctional right ventricular outflow tracts. The function of this valve when subjected to high-pressure loads in humans is unknown. The aim of this study was to describe the immediate and short-term results of Melody valves implanted in a high-pressure environment. Methods and Results—Definitions of a high-pressure system were established for Melody valves implanted in the systemic (ie, aortic or mitral position) and pulmonary (ie, right ventricular outflow tract conduit or tricuspid valve annulus) circulations. Implants in these environments were ascertained from databases of the 5 centers that participated in the US Investigational Device Exemption trial. Thirty implants met the inclusion criteria: 23 pulmonary circulation implants (all in the pulmonary position) systemic circulation implants (5 in the native aortic position, 1 in a left ventricle-to-descending aorta conduit, and 1 in the mitral annulus). All pulm...
Efficient searching in distributed digital libraries

When a digital library is decomposed into many geographically distributed repositories, search efficiencybecomesan issue. Increasing network congestion makes this a compelling issue. We discuss an effective method for reducing the number of servers needed to respond to a query and give examples of search space reduction in the NCSTRL distributed digital library.
Rapid High-Yield Purification and Liposome Reconstitution of Polyhistidine-Tagged Sensory Rhodopsin I

We have used Ni(2+)-affinity chromatography as a rapid and efficient method to purify a sensory rhodopsin I (SR-I) derivative containing six consecutive histidine residues at its C-terminus (His-tagged SR-I). The protein was expressed in Halobacterium salinarium by integrating the corresponding gene at the chromosomal bacterioopsin locus under the control of the bacterioopsin promoter. His-tagged SR-I retains native SR-I photochemical reactions in purified membranes and phototaxis signaling function in vivo. Immobilized Ni(2+)-affinity chromatography of membranes solubilized in 1% layryl maltoside provides a single-step purification of the protein to electrophoretic homogeneity (> or = 90% pure). The procedure yields 1.7 mg pure photoactive protein/liter of culture (60% efficiency). This yield combined with engineered overproduction of the protein provides at least 120-fold greater amounts than that of a previously reported multistep purification procedure, permitting structural and biochemical analysis previously not feasible. The purified protein in lauryl maltoside at pH 5.3 exhibits a visible absorption maximum at 587 nm characteristic of SR-I. Spectrometric titration reveals an alkaline-induced species at 550 nm previously observed with transducer-free SR-I in native membranes. A previously unreported structured absorption band at 400 nm, consistent with a deprotonated Schiff base, forms with the same pKa as the 550-nm species. His-tagged SR-I reconstituted into phosphatidylglycerol proteoliposomes retains properties of transducer-free SR-I in native membranes: its flash-induced absorption difference spectrum is identical, its photochemical reaction cycle kinetics show a similar pH dependence, and it forms a photoactive 550-nm species under alkaline conditions. These results indicate His-tagged SR-I reconstituted in proteoliposomes is suitable for analyzing SR-I interaction with its transducer protein in vitro.
Evolution of the business air travel network in the US from 1993 to 2011: A descriptive analysis using AIRNET

Despite recent attention focused on business air travel, most existing analyses rely on cross-sectional data drawn from a single year or season. To address this gap, this paper provides a descriptive portrait of business passengers' movements among 108 US metropolitan areas in each year from 1993 to 2011. The business air travel networks are examined at three levels: the node, the dyad, and the system. Node-level analysis reveals small fluctuations among historically dominant business cities, but also the recent rise of smaller emerging business cities. Dyad-level analysis highlights the continued importance of traditionally high-volume business routes (e.g. New York–Los Angeles), but that economic complementarity between smaller cities can also be a source of high-volume business traffic. Finally, system-wide analysis suggests that business travel among US cities is becoming more symmetric and evenly dispersed. The paper concludes with a discussion of these findings implications for managerial practice and their contribution to scholarly knowledge.
Analogs of Tetrahydrofolic Acid XIV: Facile Synthetic Route to the 2-Amino-5-(3-anilinopropyl)-6-methyl-4-pyrimidinol Type of Folic Reductase and Thymidylate Synthetase Inhibitor

A four-step synthesis of the title compound (X b ) from p -tolylsulfonanilide has been described which proceeds in 35 per cent over-all yield via ethyl 2-acetyl-5-( N -tosylanilino)valerate (IV b ) and the N -tosyl derivative of X b (VII b ). That this synthetic route had considerable generality was shown with four other examples—namely, 2-amino-6-methyl-5-( p -nitroanilinopropyl)-4-pyrimidinol (X c ), 2-amino-5-( p -carbethoxyanilinopropyl)-6-methyl-4-pyrimidinol (X d ), 2-amino-5-(3-anilinopropyl)-6-benzyl-4-pyridiminol (XVII b ), and 2-amino-5-(3-anilinopropyl)-6-phenyl-4-pyrimidinol (XVII a ). XVII a and b were good inhibitors of rat liver folic reductase, being complexed five and two times better, respectively, than the substrate, folic acid. Since XVII a and b are 35 and 16 times better, respectively, than the 6-methylpyrimidine (X b ), the phenyl ring at the 6-position is probably an additional point of binding to the enzyme.