cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Metric-based ontology learning

Ontology learning is an important task in Artificial Intelligence, Semantic Web and Text Mining. This paper presents a novel framework for, and solutions to, three practical problems in ontology learning. An incremental clustering approach is used to solve the problem of unknown group names. Learned models at each level of an ontology address the problem of no control over concept abstractness. A metric learning module moves beyond the limitation of traditional use of features and incorporates heterogeneous semantic evidence into the learning process. The metric-based learning framework integrates these separate components into a single, unified solution. An extensive evaluation with WordNet and Open Directory Project data demonstrates that the method is more effective than a state-of-the-art baseline algorithm.
GreenPar: Scheduling Parallel High Performance Applications in Green Datacenters

We propose GreenPar, a scheduler for parallel high-perormance applications in datacenters partially powered by on-site generation of renewable ("green'') energy. GreenPar schedules the workload to maximize the green energy consumption and minimize the grid ("brown'') energy consumption, while respecting a performance service-level agreement (SLA). When green energy is available, GreenPar increases the resource allocations of active jobs to reduce runtimes. When using brown energy, GreenPar reduces resource allocations within the constraints imposed by the performance SLA to conserve energy. GreenPar makes its decisions based on the speedup profile of each job. We have implemented GreenPar in a real solar-powered datacenter. Our results show that GreenPar can increase the green energy consumption and reduce both the average job runtime and the brown energy consumption, compared to schedulers that are oblivious to on-site green energy.
Sensitization development in austenitic stainless steel piping

Abstract Pacific Northwest Laboratory and the Division of Engineering Technology of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission are conducting a program to determine a method for evaluating welded and repair-welded stainless steel piping for light-water reactor service. Validated models, based on experimental data, are being developed to predict the degree of sensitization (DOS) and the intergranular stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC) susceptibility in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) of the SS weldments. The cumulative effects of material composition, past fabrication procedures, past service exposure, weldment thermomechanical (TM) history, and projected post-repair component life are being considered.
Suitability of greenbugs, cotton aphids, and Heliothis virescens eggs for development and reproduction of Orius insidiosus

Development, fecundity, and longevity of the predator, Orius insidiosus (Say) (Heteroptera: Anthocoridae), when reared on greenbug [Schizaphis graminum (Rondani)], cotton aphid (Aphis gossypii Glover), or eggs of tobacco budworm [Heliothis virescens (F.)] with green beans or water were examined. Developmental time was shortest when predators were reared on H. virescens eggs and beans and longest when reared on cotton aphids and water. Predators were most fecund when fed H. virescens eggs. The inclusion of beans in the nymphal diet further enhanced fecundity when fed eggs. Longevity of both females and males was significantly shorter when reared on aphids than on eggs. Beans in the nymphal diet enhanced longevity of female predators only in combination with budworm eggs. Female O. insidiosus were largest when reared on H. virescens eggs. Addition of green beans in aphid treatments resulted in increased size of O. insidiosus when compared to aphids and free water.
Police use of nonlethal force in New York City: situational and community factors

The current study examined the situational and community factors that affect police use of nonlethal force in New York City. Although a number of studies explored either situational factors at the incident-level or community factors at the neighbourhood level, only a few tested for interaction between the two levels. Using multiple data sources, the current study features hierarchical generalised linear modelling for both independent and cross-level interaction effects of situational and community factors. The findings suggest that the police use of nonlethal force was associated with suspect's race and other situational factors. Notably, the effects of race and seriousness of the offence appear to hinge upon the community characteristics. Findings are further discussed for policy implications.
A pilot study to measure the compressive and tensile forces required to use retractable intramuscular safety syringes.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Even though retractable intramuscular safety syringes are designed to be activated while still in the patient's muscle or subcutaneous tissue, there are reports of healthcare workers activating these devices outside of the patient. This may be due to perceptions that the force required to activate the retraction mechanism may cause added discomfort to the patient. If such concerns could be substantiated, the possibility for a sharps injury still exists if these safety devices are not utilized correctly, in essence defeating their intended purpose. The objective of this pilot study was to determine the forces required to operate retractable safety syringes in order to evaluate potential adverse occupational health and patient safety issues. METHODS: A newly-developed product evaluation laboratory at the James A. Haley Veterans Administration Patient Safety Center in Tampa, Florida, provided the controlled setting for evaluating safer needle devices in this pilot study. Four brands (100 each) of retractable syringes were tested, using a digital force gauge, in air and in a simulated patient material (SPM). Compressive forces were measured while activating the retraction mechanism in both air and SPM. Tensile forces were measured while withdrawing 2 cc of saline into the syringe barrel. Two-way analysis of variance and Duncan's Multiple Range test were used in the statistical analysis. RESULTS: The compressive forces demonstrated by the four devices in both air and SPM measured from a low of 0.52 lbs to a high of 22.02 lbs (range = 21.97 lbs). The mean compressive force was greater in SPM than in air in all four devices. There was a statistically significant compressive force difference between activation in air and SPM in devices 1 and 2 (p ≤ 0. 05). The tensile forces measured from a low of 0.06 lbs to a high of 2.18 lbs (range = 2.12 lbs). The tensile forces for all devices were lower than the compressive forces. Analysis of variance demonstrated a significant difference between the means of the four tensile groups (p CONCLUSIONS: There was considerable variability in the measured compressive force between devices yet the compressive force was still greater in SPM than in air. The results of this pilot study pose needlestick injury potential and device training issues for healthcare workers, as well as possible future impacts on the design of this type of safety device. The cumulative ergonomic effects of compressive and tensile forces require further investigation. Replication of this study by multiple researchers, using numerous needles and syringe sizes, is recommended.
The Left Guomindang in Opposition, 1927-1931

The source of conflict within the Guomindang (GMD) in the late 1920s was essentially twofold. One factor was the political struggle for succession among party leaders after the death of Sun Yat-sen; the second factor was ideological differences among competing factions. With the death of Sun in March 1925, Hu Hanmin, Liao Zhongkai, and Wang Jingwei emerged as potential successors owing to their respective power and prestige in the party, and to their long-term association with Sun. A series of coups and counter-coups in the following months reflected the essential pattern of confrontation between Hu's group and the group of Liao and Wang, who, because of their active roles in the First United Front, were viewed as "radicals."
Computed tomography diagnosis utilizing compressed image data: an ROC analysis using acute appendicitis as a model.

Using receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) methodology, the ability to diagnose acute appendicitis with computed tomography (CT) images displayed at varying levels of lossy compression was evaluated. Nine sequential images over the ileocecal region were obtained from 53 consecutive patients with right lower quadrant pain who were clinically suspected to have acute appendicitis. Thirty were proven surgically to have acute appendicitis, alternative diagnoses confirmed in 23. The image sets were subjected to a lossy wavelet-based compression algorithm "Embedded Predictive Wavelet Image Coder" (EPWIC). Compression levels were: none, 8:1, 16:1, and 24:1, resulting in 4 sets of images per patient. Image sets were randomized and evaluated separately by 4 body radiologists on a 1,024 × 768-pixel SVGA color PC monitor in 512 × 512 format. The readers were aware of the clinical suspicion of appendicitis but were unaware of the positive fraction of cases. Individual and combined reader ROC and c2 analyses of sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were determined. For all readers, sensitivity decreases at 16:1 and 24:1 levels (P <0.01, P <0.001, respectively). Accuracy decreased at 24:1 levels (P <0.01). Specificity was unaffected. By ROC analysis there was statistically significantly decreased area under the curve at 24:1 levels (P <0.02) as compared with uncompressed images. Finite levels of lossy wavelet compression may be applied to CT images without compromising diagnostic performance.
Nonlinear estimation for PM2.5 transmission effects in Jefferson Co., Texas

Urban air pollution consists of emission and transmission of air pollutants. In this article, we discuss a complex valued nonlinear regression model to characterize the effect of pollutant transmission by estimating the direction and velocity of the spatial propagation at a fixed sequence of time intervals. In case the pollutant is transmitted from a distant source during a certain time period, the monitoring stations in the local network detect the signal with time delays, which are nonlinearly related to the velocity and angle of approach or azimuth. An observed vector time series in the monitoring network is modeled as the sum of a lagged or delayed stochastic signal and a zero mean stationary noise vector. The Fourier transformation is applied to the model, and the maximum likelihood estimation of the transmission parameters under such a model is considered. Those estimates can be used to identify the possible sources of local pollutants and for better understanding of spatial distribution of pollutants. Data used in this study are based on hourly PM2.5 records from three monitoring stations in the Beaumont-Port Arthur area in Texas for April to December 2002. The results indicate that during the months May, November and December, PM2.5 transmission were significant, with the dominant direction from the east. The velocity estimates during the period range from 4 to 20 km/h. During the summer season (June to October) the transmission effect was not very evident except for the first week of August and the first week of September. The model well detects both consistent and momentary transmissions. The parameter estimates and their standard errors are given for each week separately. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrasound assessment of intrauterine growth restriction: relationship to neonatal body composition.

Objective The objective of the study was to compare prenatal ultrasound parameters for intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) with newborn percent body fat (%BF). Study Design This was a prospective study of 87 pregnancies followed with ultrasound. Subjects were categorized into 3 groups: estimated fetal weight (EFW) less than the 10th percentile, abdominal circumference (AC) less than the fifth percentile, and normal biometry. Neonatal %BF by air displacement plethysmography was compared between each group using multivariable analyses. Results The %BF in the EFW less than the 10th percentile group (5.1 ± 2.9%) was significantly lower than either AC less than the fifth percentile (9.5 ± 3.3%) or normal groups (11.6 ± 5.6%). EFW less than the 10th percentile best predicted %BF by regression model. Neonatal morbidity was not significantly higher in the EFW less than the 10th percentile group. Conclusion Newborn %BF was significantly lower in infants with EFW less than the 10th percentile compared with AC less than the fifth percentile, an intermediate finding. An AC less than the fifth percentile on ultrasound does not reflect the same severity of IUGR as EFW less than the 10th percentile.
Allergic Potential and Immunotoxicity Induced by Topical Application of 1-Chloro-4-(Trifluoromethyl)Benzene (PCBTF) in a Murine Model

The purpose of the studies in this paper was to evaluate the allergic potential, immunotoxicity, and irritancy of the occupationally relevant chemical, 1-chloro-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzene, also known as parachlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF), following dermal exposure in a murine model. Evaluation of the sensitization potential, conducted using the local lymph node assay (LLNA) at concentrations ranging from 50% to 100%, identified a dose-dependent increase in lymphocyte proliferation with a calculated EC3 value of 53.1%. While no elevations in total or specific IgE were observed after exposure to any concentration of the chemical, significant increases in IFN-γ protein production by stimulated draining lymphoid cells were observed, indicating a T-cell-mediated response. Dermal exposure to PCBTF was not found to alter the immune response to a T-cell-dependant antigen. These results demonstrate that PCBTF has the potential to induce allergic sensitization following dermal exposure and based on LLNA results would be classified as a weak sensitizer.
Spatial Patterns of Convection in South Florida

Abstract Although they are a fairly consistent feature, the sea-breeze and lake-breeze convergence lines and the associated convection over south Florida during the summer may vary considerably from one day to the next. Daily radar maps indicate a few basic recurring patterns. Analyses of radiosonde data show significant differences corresponding to the different patterns in the local thermodynamic parameters, most notably the mixing ratio. Changes in the synoptic-scale wind field correspond closely to changes in the observed radar patterns and the local thermodynamic conditions. Explanation of the formation and development of the different patterns of convection is given in terms of the complex interaction between the regional-, synoptic-, peninsular- and local-scale circulations.
Recurrent neural networks for voice activity detection

We present a novel recurrent neural network (RNN) model for voice activity detection. Our multi-layer RNN model, in which nodes compute quadratic polynomials, outperforms a much larger baseline system composed of Gaussian mixture models (GMMs) and a hand-tuned state machine (SM) for temporal smoothing. All parameters of our RNN model are optimized together, so that it properly weights its preference for temporal continuity against the acoustic features in each frame. Our RNN uses one tenth the parameters and outperforms the GMM+SM baseline system by 26% reduction in false alarms, reducing overall speech recognition computation time by 17% while reducing word error rate by 1% relative.
The cytokines of pulmonary fibrosis: Much learned, much more to learn

Organ fibrosis, the result of exaggerated, persistent, and often irreversible accumulation of extracellular matrix, complicates numerous diseases in all organs and tissues and has particularly serious consequences in the lungs. Abnormally accumulating scar tissue both replaces normally functioning parenchyma and distorts the architecture of unaffected tissue. In the lungs, the fibrotic process often leads to rapid and severe abnormalities in respiratory mechanics and gas exchange properties. There is no confirmed cure, and better therapies are required for treating fibrosis. The development of therapeutic strategies compels a better understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis, which are diverse, complex, and redundant. Epithelial injury, oxidative stress, coagulation disturbances, and inflammation are engaged in a complex interplay leading to augmented transformation of several cell types into myofibroblasts and prolonged survival of these extracellular matrix-producing cells. Cytokines are centrally engaged in the homeostatic and pathophysiologic regulation of connective tissue. Furthermore, it appears that identical cytokines are utilized by inflammation, profibrotic mechanisms, and the fibrotic process itself, suggesting that specific targeting or utilization of these cytokines holds therapeutic promise. In this article, we review the wealth of recent knowledge on major cytokines involved in the fibrotic process.
Neutron activation analysis of LWR ion exchange mixed-bed resins for129I

Iodine-129 was determined by neutron activation analysis (NAA) in mixed-bed ion exchange resins from four light water reactors (LWR), including two pressurized water reactors (PWR) and two boiling water reactors (BWR). Published procedures for NAA of129I in LWR resins were modified and adapted to the particular requirements of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) irradiation system. Observed129I concentrations, ranging from 1E-09 to 4E-07 μCi/g, were about 1000 times lower than the beta-gamma detection limits currently reported.
The Inter-ethnic Return: Racial and Cultural Multiplicity in Foundational Asian American and Chicana/o Literatures

AbstractThis article advocates that inter-ethnic contact and cross-cultural traffic condition the possibilities of imagining Asian American and Chicana/o identities, respectively, in early Asian American and Chicana/o novels. Using Maxine Hong Kingston's The Woman Warrior and Sandra Cisneros' The House on Mango Street as my primary examples, I demonstrate how early Asian American and Chicana/o literatures that have been critiqued almost exclusively within binary analytic paradigms articulate identity within a diverse field of racial and cultural differences. I argue that, in order to regard properly the inter-ethnic trends of recent US fiction and to liberate foundational minority texts from ethnic specific enclaves within US institutions, scholars need to recognize how negotiating a diverse spectrum of racial and cultural distinctions is a critical element of the early Asian American and Chicana/o literary imagination.
Electrostatic BEM for MEMS with thin conducting plates and shells

Abstract Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) sometimes use beam or plate shaped conductors that can be very thin-with h / L ≈ O ( 10 − 2 − 10 − 3 ) (in terms of the thickness h and length L of the side of a square pate). Conventional Boundary Element Method (BEM) analysis of the electric field in a region exterior to such thin conductors can become difficult to carry out accurately and efficiently—especially since MEMS analysis requires computation of charge densities (and then surface tractions) separately on the top and bottom surfaces of such plates. A new boundary integral equation (BIE) is derived in this work that, when used together with the standard BIE with weakly singular kernels, results in a powerful technique for the BEM analysis of such problems. This new approach, in fact, works best for very thin plates. This thin plate BEM is derived and discussed in this work. Numerical results, from several BEM based methods, are presented and compared for the model problem of a parallel plate capacitor.
A Clinically Oriented Perspective on Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizure–Related Emergencies

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) can present emergently and are often mistaken for epileptic seizures. PNES emergencies have not been well studied, and yet there are associated serious morbidities, particularly when patients are seen in an emergency setting and are misdiagnosed. PNES may be prolonged, mimicking status epilepticus, a condition we refer to as nonepileptic psychogenic status (NEPS), and patients may receive aggressive and unnecessary medical treatments that can lead to serious iatrogenic complications, including death. NEPS is also associated with an increased risk of self-harm, including suicide attempts, and may indicate a serious comorbid psychiatric illness. In addition to iatrogenic complications of PNES, accidents and injuries are an underrecognized source of morbidity. PNES may also present during medical procedures, which may not only interfere with their completion, but may alarm practitioners who, fearing liability, may initiate further medical evaluations and treatments. When PNES occur during pregnancy, patients may be misdiagnosed with eclampsia and their offspring delivered prematurely. They also risk being placed on medications that are harmful to the fetus. Increased awareness of PNES is necessary to prevent iatrogenic harm and to identify underlying psychiatric illnesses that carry their own risks. As yet, data available to guide treatment are scant, and further study is needed.
Predicting Solar Irradiance Using Time Series Neural Networks

Increasing the accuracy of prediction improves the performance of photovoltaic systems and alleviates the effects of intermittence on the systems stability. A Nonlinear Autoregressive Network with Exogenous Inputs (NARX) approach was applied to the Vichy-Rolla National Airport’s photovoltaic station. The proposed model uses several inputs (e.g. time, day of the year, sky cover, pressure, and wind speed) to predict hourly solar irradiance. Data obtained from the National Solar Radiation Database (NSRDB) was used to conduct simulation experiments. These simulations validate the use of the proposed model for short-term predictions. Results show that the NARX neural network notably outperformed the other models and is better than the linear regression model. The use of additional meteorological variables, particularly sky cover, can further improve the prediction performance.
Noncanonical Matrix Metalloprotease-1-Protease-activated Receptor-1 Signaling Triggers Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Dedifferentiation and Arterial Stenosis

Vascular injury that results in proliferation and dedifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is an important contributor to restenosis following percutaneous coronary interventions or plaque rupture. Protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR1) has been shown to play a role in vascular repair processes; however, little is known regarding its function or the relative roles of the upstream proteases thrombin and matrix metalloprotease-1 (MMP-1) in triggering PAR1-mediated arterial restenosis. The goal of this study was to determine whether noncanonical MMP-1 signaling through PAR1 would contribute to aberrant vascular repair processes in models of arterial injury. A mouse carotid arterial wire injury model was used for studies of neointima hyperplasia and arterial stenosis. The mice were treated post-injury for 21 days with a small molecule inhibitor of MMP-1 or a direct thrombin inhibitor and compared with vehicle control. Intimal and medial hyperplasia was significantly inhibited by 2.8-fold after daily treatment with the small molecule MMP-1 inhibitor, an effect that was lost in PAR1-deficient mice. Conversely, chronic inhibition of thrombin showed no benefit in suppressing the development of arterial stenosis. Thrombin-PAR1 signaling resulted in a supercontractile, differentiated phenotype in SMCs. Noncanonical MMP-1-PAR1 signaling resulted in the opposite effect and led to a dedifferentiated phenotype via a different G protein pathway. MMP-1-PAR1 significantly stimulated hyperplasia and migration of SMCs, and resulted in down-regulation of SMC contractile genes. These studies provide a new mechanism for the development of vascular intimal hyperplasia and suggest a novel therapeutic strategy to suppress restenosis by targeting noncanonical MMP-1-PAR1 signaling in vascular SMCs.
Energy Balance and Excretion of DDT into Milk

Abstract Two cows were given 30-g doses of p,p′-DDT 30 days prepartum. The milk fat concentration of DDT was in the range of 6 to 7 μ g/gram through 45 days postpartum and the amount of DDT excreted was not associated with body energy loss as measured by complete energy balance trials. The concentration of DDD was initially in the range of 2 to 3 μ g/gram and the amount excreted in the milk was closely associated with body energy loss. Neither DDE nor other routes of excretion were important factors in this study.
The neutral zone and polished surfaces in complete dentures

Abstract A technique has been described in which the form of the polished surfaces is developed in an impression paste at the try-in, and this form is carried through into the finished dentures. The polished surfaces of dentures are as important as the occlusal and impression surfaces in the construction of successful dentures. A method for determining the correct arch form and buccolingual position of the posterior teeth has been described. This position is called the neutral zone. A method of forming the contours of occlusion rims with soft modeling compound and establishing the vertical and centric relations by the swallowing method, and a procedure for developing and recording the smile line and the inclination of the anterior teeth has been described.
High resolution and high fields in biological solid state NMR.

Abstract 2H solid state NMR spectra of a polypeptide in an oriented membrane environment is demonstrated to have an orientational resolution of 0.3°. Such data results in high resolution structural constraints. Similar spectra are demonstrated at 23.2 T using a resistive magnet at the National High Magentic Field Laboratory.
New product introduction against a predator: A bilevel mixed‐integer programming approach

We consider a scenario with two firms determining which products to develop and introduce to the market. In this problem, there exists a finite set of potential products and market segments. Each market segment has a preference list of products and will buy its most preferred product among those available. The firms play a Stackelberg game in which the leader firm first introduces a set of products, and the follower responds with its own set of products. The leader's goal is to maximize its profit subject to a product introduction budget, assuming that the follower will attempt to minimize the leader's profit using a budget of its own. We formulate this problem as a multistage integer program amenable to decomposition techniques. Using this formulation, we develop three variations of an exact mathematical programming method for solving the multistage problem, along with a family of heuristic procedures for estimating the follower solution. The efficacy of our approaches is demonstrated on randomly generated test instances. This article contributes to the operations research literature a multistage algorithm that directly addresses difficulties posed by degeneracy, and contributes to the product variety literature an exact optimization algorithm for a novel competitive product introduction problem. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 56: 714-729, 2009
Scale-free, self-organizing very large sensor networks

In this paper we introduce SFSN, an algorithm for self-organization of Very Large Sensor Networks (VLSN). The 10^6 or more tiny and inexpensive sensors of a VLSN are indistinguishable from one another; they do not have either a physical or a logical address, as required by the traditional communication protocols. The self-organization scheme limits the number of partners each sensor collaborates with, thus, it limits the amount of communication and the complexity of coordination. The system is scalable, the amount of state information each node has to maintain is strictly limited regardless of the total number of sensors in the network. The systems we consider mimic biological systems where individual cells of the same type are indistinguishable.
The Van der Waals interaction between an atom and a solid

Abstract Measurements of the scattering of neutral atoms by metal cylinders have indicated a serious discrepancy between theory and experiment for the strength of the long-range Van der Waals interaction. To clarify the content of the theory, we present here a formal analysis of the Van der Waals interaction between an atom and a solid, based on the approach of McLachlan. A key quantity in the theory is the response of the solid to an external, time-dependent dipole. This response is amenable to classical analysis, and we calculate it for a variety of model systems. When the solid may be treated as a continuum with a flat surface, the concept of surface impedance allows a convenient parameterization and we may incorporate thereby magnetic effects, non-local dielectric response, and the influence of finite layers in the solid. We also study the modifications induced by a rough surface, finding the average change in the coupling strength in the presence of weak roughness.
Gain and Loss in Active Waveguides Based on Lithographically Defined Quantum Dots

We report on the optical gain and loss of waveguides containing lithographically defined quantum dots. Lasing action has previously been demonstrated in a nominally identical structure. Measurements are made by monitoring the transmission of a resonant pulse while varying the injection current. We measure a maximum modal gain of 1.8 cm \(^{{-1}}\) at the peak of the ground state emission for a two-layer structure. The peak gain is insufficient for ground state lasing to be achieved in a structure with as-cleaved facets, but the gain per dot is comparable with that demonstrated in self-assembled quantum dots.
Error generalization as a function of velocity and duration: human reaching movements

Our sensory-motor control system has a remarkable ability to adapt to novel dynamics during reaching movements and generalizes this adaptation to movements made in different directions, positions and even speeds. The degree and pattern of this generalization are of great importance in deducing the underlying mechanisms that govern our motor control. In this report we expand our knowledge on the generalization between movements made at different speeds. We wished to determine the pattern of generalization between different speed and duration movements on a trial-by-trial basis. In addition, we tested three hypotheses for the pattern of generalization. The first hypothesis was that the generalization was maximum for the speed of the movement just made with a linear decrease in generalization as one moves away from that preferred speed. The second was that the generalization is always highest for the fastest speed movements and linearly decreases with speed. The last hypothesis came from our preliminary results, which suggested that the generalization plateaus. Human subjects made targeted reaching movements at four different maximum speeds (15, 35, 55 and 75 cm/s) presented in pseudorandom order to one spatial target (15 cm extent) while holding onto a robotic manipulandum that produced a viscous curl field. Catch trials (trial where the curl field was unexpectedly removed) were used to probe the generalization between the four speed/durations on a movement-by-movement basis. We found that the pattern of generalization was linear between the first three speed categories (15–55 cm/s), but plateaued after the 55 cm/s category. We compared the subjects’ results with a simulated adaptive controller that used a population code by combining the output of basis elements. These basis elements encoded limb velocity and associated this with a force expectation at that velocity. We found that using a basis set of Gaussians the adaptive controller produced movements that generalized in virtually the exact manner as the subjects, as we have previously demonstrated for movements made to different spatial targets. Thus, the human internal model may employ such a population code.
Fine Structure of the Silverline and Fibrillar Systems of Three Tetrahymenid Ciliates

Application of fragmentation and thin-sectioning techniques to Tetrakymena pyriformis, Colpidium compiles and Glaucoma chattoni has permitted an analysis of the ultra-structure of their silverline and fibrillar systems. The classical silverline system consists of a mosaic of flat, membrane-bound blisters whose rims represent the sites of selective silver deposition. Cilia and protrichocysts emerge between adjacent blisters. I The pellicle consists of the membranes outlining the blisters, overlain by a continuous outer membrane that covers the whole cell and cilia. Fibrillar structures, which are not argentophilic, include: (1) tapering, striated kinetodesmal fibers arising singly from the kinetosomes, passing to the right and anteriad, and overlapping to form a loose bundle accompanying each kinety; (2) a longitudinal fibril band immediately beneath the pellicle at the right of each kinety, consisting of overlapping individual fibrils; (3) a transverse band of fibrils arising at the left side of each kinetosome and passing to the left under the pellicle; and (4) a set of postciliary fibrils arising at the right posterior edge of each kinetosome and passing posteriad under the pellicle. The fibrils of sets (2), (3), and (4) all are about 20 Mμ in diameter and appear tubular in cross-section; they are very unlike the heavier, solid kinetodesmal fibers. None of the fibril sets directly interconnect, although transverse and postciliary fibrils end in the vicinity of the longitudinal fibril band.
Mycoplasmal arthritis of the mouse: development of cellular hypersensitivity to normal synovial tissue.

SummaryCellular hypersensitivity to normal mouse synovial tissue was found in arthritic mice infected by iv injection of Mycoplasma pulmonis but not in uninfected normal mice. Hypersensitivity was determined by inhibition of migration of peritoneal macrophages in the presence of an antigen made from normal mouse synovium. Since, in a previous study, no correlation was found between the presence of mycoplasmas in arthritic joints and the extent of arthritis, this data suggests that both microbiological and immunological mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of the disease.Addendum. An additional experiment was performed to test the specificity of the reaction to synovial antigen. Cells from 12 mice infected 14 to 35 weeks and 12 age-matched controls were incubated in the presence or absence of an antigen prepared from normal mouse kidney by the method outlined for synovial antigen. Using 12.5 μg/ml (the highest concentration not affecting cells from normal mice) the migration area from the infected a...
Hemodialysis Fistula Interventions: Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges and Technical Considerations

End-stage renal disease is one of the main epidemiologic health problems and dialysis access continues to be the Achilles' heel of its treatment. Consequently, hemodialysis fistula maintenance is of great importance which can best be accomplished by close collaboration between primary care, nephrology, surgery and interventional radiology services, routine access monitoring as well as early intervention in cases of impending access failure. Also, knowledge and application of specific interventional techniques that are additionally described in this article may increase intervention efficiency, decrease the incidence of complications and overcome technical challenges thus improving procedural outcome and maximizing access patency rates.
Convergence of the discontinuous finite volume method for elliptic problems with minimal regularity

This paper investigates convergence of the discontinuous finite volume method (DFVM) under minimal regularity assumptions on solutions of second order elliptic boundary value problems. Conventional analysis requires the solutions to be in Sobolev spaces H^1^+^s,s>12. Here we assume the solutions are in H^1^+^s,s>0 and employ the techniques developed in Gudi (2010) [18,20] to derive error estimates in a mesh-dependent energy norm and the L"2-norm for DFVM. The theoretical estimates are illustrated by numerical results, which include problems with corner singularity and intersecting interfaces.
Differential Effects of Protein Kinase C Activation on Calcium Storage and Capacitative Calcium Entry in NIH 3T3 Cells

In NIH 3T3 cells, treatment with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) reduced the release of Ca2+ by thapsigargin, but did not activate Ca2+ entry; Ca2+ influx was triggered after the residual pool was emptied by thapsigargin, and this Ca2+ influx was similar to that induced by thapsigargin in control cells. The effect of PMA was due to decreased Ca2+ storage because 1) Ca2+ release by ionomycin was similarly affected by PMA, and in both control and PMA-treated cells, ionomycin did not release Ca2+ following thapsigargin treatment; 2) PMA reduced 45Ca2+ accumulation; and 3) studies with Ca2+ indicator compartmentalized into the endoplasmic reticulum indicated that stored Ca2+ was reduced by PMA. Although PMA did not itself activate Ca2+ entry, PMA potentiated Ca2+ entry with low concentrations of cyclopiazonic acid. With a somewhat higher concentration of cyclopiazonic acid, PMA had no effect on calcium entry. Thus, protein kinase C has two apparent actions on calcium signaling in NIH 3T3 cells: 1) reduced intracellular Ca2+ storage capacity and 2) augmented calcium entry with submaximal intracellular Ca2+ pool depletion. These actions indicate a complex and potentially important role for the protein kinase C system in calcium homeostasis in this cell type.
Gαi2 and ZAP-70 Mediate RasGRP1 Membrane Localization and Activation of SDF-1–Induced T Cell Functions

RasGRP1, a Ras guanine-nucleotide exchange factor, critically mediates T cell development and function and controls immunodeficiency and autoimmunity. In this study, we describe a unique mechanism of mobilization and activation of RasGRP1 in response to SDF-1, a chemokine that signals via the G protein-coupled receptor CXCR4. Depletion of RasGRP1 impaired SDF-1–stimulated human T cell migration, expression of the activation marker CD69, and activation of the ERK MAPK pathway, indicating that RasGRP1 mediates SDF-1 functions. SDF-1 treatment caused RasGRP1 to localize to the plasma membrane to activate K-Ras and to the Golgi to activate N-Ras. These events were required for cellular migration and for ERK activation that mediates downstream transcriptional events in response to SDF-1. SDF-1–dependent localization of RasGRP1 did not require its diacylglycerol-binding domain, even though diacyglycerol was previously shown to mediate localization of RasGRP1 in response to Ag stimulation. This domain was, however, required for activity of RasGRP1 after its localization. Intriguingly, SDF-1 treatment of T cells induced the formation of a novel molecular signaling complex containing RasGRP1, Gαi2, and ZAP-70. Moreover, SDF-1–mediated signaling by both Gi proteins and ZAP-70 was required for RasGRP1 mobilization. In addition, RasGRP1 mobilization and activation in response to SDF-1 was dependent on TCR expression, suggesting that CXCR4 heterodimerizes with the TCR to couple to ZAP-70 and mobilize RasGRP1. These results increase understanding of the molecular mechanisms that mediate SDF-1 effects on T cells and reveal a novel mechanism of RasGRP1 regulation. Other G protein-coupled receptors may similarly contribute to regulation of RasGRP1.
Redefining access: uses and roles of information and communication technologies in the US residential real estate industry from 1995 to 2005

We discuss three industry-level changes in the US residential real estate industry due, in part, to the take up and uses of information and communication technologies (ICT): (1) changes in the processes of transacting residential real estate, (2) changing roles for information, and (3) changing nature of intermediation, with the real estate transaction as more complex than the seller–agent–buyer simplification would suggest. We speculate that these changes are currently indeterminate due to ongoing confusion among the impacts of first and second-level effects, the roles of ICT in redefining access to data, and the importance of localized, social structures of real estate markets. To develop these findings, we take an institutional perspective and draw on multiple data collection methods. This provides us a means to highlight the value of an institutional perspective for studying industrial-level change.
Nucleation and Growth of Nanoscale to Microscale Cylindrical Pits in Highly-ordered Pyrolytic Graphite upon Hyperthermal Atomic Oxygen Exposure

The erosion of highly-ordered pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) caused by exposure to hyperthermal atomic 0(3P) atoms was explored. Profilometry has revealed that the overall erosion yield is linear with r...
Mycobacterium chelonae keratitis after laser in situ keratomileusis successfully treated with medical therapy and flap removal

Abstract PURPOSE To report a case of Mycobacterium chelonae keratitis after laser in situ keratomileusis successfully treated with medical therapy and flap removal. METHODS Case report. A 36-year-old white woman in good health developed a paracentral keratitis in her right eye 1 month after bilateral laser in situ keratomileusis. Initial treatment included topical steroids and then intensive Ocuflox (ofloxacin ophthalmic solution; Allergan, Inc, Irvine, California) without success. Cultures were negative. The keratitis worsened, and she was referred to our institution. Interface infiltration was noted, and the flap was lifted to obtain adequate laboratory studies. Cultures were positive for M chelonae. RESULTS The keratitis was treated with intensive topical amikacin sulfate 1%, topical clarithromycin 1%, and Ciloxan (ciprofloxacin HCL; Alcon Laboratories, Inc, Fort Worth, Texas) with minimal improvement in her clinical condition. She developed a toxic reaction to amikacin 1%. In order to improve antibiotic penetration, the hazy, ulcerated corneal flap was removed. The keratitis then resolved with intensive topical clarithromycin 1% and Ocuflox over 5 weeks. The patient now has visual acuity without correction of 20/50, despite superficial corneal haze. CONCLUSION M chelonae is a rare and insidious cause of infection after laser in situ keratomileusis. Diagnosis can be difficult and is often delayed. Aggressive medical management, with flap removal, if needed, may lead to resolution of infection.
Radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea: a meta-analysis

Objectives/Hypothesis: Recent studies suggest that radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a treatment option for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This study investigates the effectiveness of RFA in treating OSA using a critical literature review and meta-analysis. Study Design: Critical literature review and meta-analysis. Methods: Two independent searches of PubMed 1966-present were performed to identify publications pertaining to RFA and OSA. Effectiveness of the procedure was measured by comparing the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), respiratory disturbance index (RDI), and lowest O2 saturation before and after tissue ablation. Results: Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The study found a 31% reduction in short-term ESS (odds ratios (OR) 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63–0.75), which was maintained beyond 12 months (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.43–0.73). Likewise, RFA resulted in a 31% reduction in short term ( 24 month) RDI levels. Short-term results of the lowest O2 saturations failed to demonstrate improvement (OR 1.03, 95% CI 0.88–1.20). Conclusion: RFA seems to be a clinically effective tool that reduces ESS scores and RDI levels in patients with OSA syndrome. The procedure should be considered a valid treatment option for patients who refuse or are unable to tolerate continuous positive airway pressure.
Simulation-assisted design and analysis of varactor-based frequency multipliers and dividers

Varactor-based circuits, used for frequency conversion, have the advantages of a simple topology, high efficiency, reasonable bandwidth, and good isolation of the input signal. However, they often exhibit spurious oscillations, which complicate the design and limit their applicability. In the case of frequency dividers, the operation bands are bounded by bifurcation phenomena. In this paper, the behavior of these circuits is investigated with stability-analysis and bifurcation-detection capabilities through harmonic-balance techniques. The techniques are applied for the design of a frequency tripler, a frequency divider-by-3 and a fractional-order frequency divider-by-3/2. Good experimental behavior has been obtained in all cases. The discrepancies with the simulated results have been found to be due to the high tolerances of the lumped elements.
Dicer-dependent microRNA pathway safeguards regulatory T cell function.

Regulatory T (T reg) cells are indispensable for preventing autoimmunity. Incumbent to this role is the ability of T reg cells to exert their suppressor function under inflammatory conditions. We found that T reg cell–mediated tolerance is critically dependent on the Dicer-controlled microRNA (miRNA) pathway. Depletion of miRNA within the T reg cell lineage resulted in fatal autoimmunity indistinguishable from that in T reg cell–deficient mice. In disease-free mice lacking Dicer in all T cells or harboring both Dicer-deficient and -sufficient T reg cells, Dicer-deficient T reg cells were suppressive, albeit to a lesser degree, whereas their homeostatic potential was diminished as compared with their Dicer-sufficient counterparts. However, in diseased mice, Dicer-deficient T reg cells completely lost suppressor capacity. Thus, miRNA preserve the T reg cell functional program under inflammatory conditions.
Pretreatment, Psychological, and Behavioral Predictors of Weight Outcomes Among Lifestyle Intervention Participants in the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)

OBJECTIVE To identify the most important pretreatment characteristics and changes in psychological and behavioral factors that predict weight outcomes in the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Approximately 25% of DPP lifestyle intervention participants ( n = 274) completed questionnaires to assess weight history and psychological and behavioral factors at baseline and 6 months after completion of the 16-session core curriculum. The change in variables from baseline to 6 months was assessed with t tests. Multivariate models using hierarchical logistic regression assessed the association of weight outcomes at end of study with each demographic, weight loss history, psychological, and behavioral factor. RESULTS At end of study, 40.5% had achieved the DPP 7% weight loss goal. Several baseline measures (older age, race, older age when first overweight, fewer self-implemented weight loss attempts, greater exercise self-efficacy, greater dietary restraint, fewer fat-related dietary behaviors, more sedentary activity level) were independent predictors of successful end-of-study weight loss with the DPP lifestyle program. The DPP core curriculum resulted in significant improvements in many psychological and behavioral targets. Changes in low-fat diet self-efficacy and dietary restraint skills predicted better long-term weight loss, and the association of low-fat diet self-efficacy with weight outcomes was explained by dietary behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Health care providers who translate the DPP lifestyle intervention should be aware of pretreatment characteristics that may hamper or enhance weight loss, consider prioritizing strategies to improve low-fat diet self-efficacy and dietary restraint skills, and examine whether taking these actions improves weight loss outcomes.