cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
X-ray imaging of Rayleigh–Taylor instabilities using Fresnel zone plate at the National Ignition Facility

Being able to provide high-resolution x-ray radiography is crucial in order to study hydrodynamic instabilities in the high-energy density regime at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Current capabilities limit us to about 20 μm resolution using pinholes, but recent studies have demonstrated the high-resolution capability of the Fresnel zone plate optics at the NIF, measuring 2.3 μm resolution. Using a zinc Heα line at 9 keV as a backlighter, we obtained a radiograph of Rayleigh–Taylor instabilities with a measured resolution of under 3 μm. Two images were taken with a time integrated detector and were time gated by a laser pulse duration of 600 ps, and a third image was taken with a framing camera with a 100 ps time gate on the same shot and on the same line of sight. The limiting factors on image quality for these two cases are the motion blur and the signal to noise ratio, respectively. We also suggest solutions to increase the image quality.
Disney, Marvel and the Value of 'Hidden Assets'

Purpose: This paper discusses the concept of hidden assets in the context of Disney’s 2009 acquisition of the Marvel Entertainment Group (Marvel), and its value realization activities post-acquisition. Design/methodology/approach: The paper presents a hidden assets-based value realization analysis of the 2009 acquisition of Marvel by Disney. It draws on a previously published case study of that acquisition as well as further research conducted by the author. Findings: The Disney-Marvel acquisition supports the view that hidden assets-based analysis can be a powerful M&A tool and an equally powerful value realization tool when managed strategically over time. Practical and research implications: The Disney acquisition of Marvel is a dramatic example of how knowledge of hidden assets can be used to do a deal in a competitive marketplace and how the disciplined management of those assets over time can realize a “blue ocean” of value post-acquisition. Originality and value: This is the first paper we are aware that evaluates the hidden assets of the Disney-Marvel acquisition. It follows another paper that evaluated the acquisition (Joseph Calandro, Jr., “Disney’s Marvel Acquisition: A Strategic Financial Analysis,” Strategy & Leadership, Vol. 38, No. 2 (2010), pp. 42-51), which followed a paper that evaluated Marvel’s 1996 bankruptcy filing (Joseph Calandro, Jr., “Distressed M&A and Corporate Strategy: Lessons from Marvel Entertainment Group's Bankruptcy,” Strategy & Leadership, Vol. 37, No. 4 (2009), pp. 23-32).
Exploding vesicles

While studying fatty acid vesicles as model primitive cell membranes, we encountered a dramatic phenomenon in which light triggers the sudden rupture of micron-scale dye-containing vesicles, resulting in rapid release of vesicle contents. We show that such vesicle explosions are caused by an increase in internal osmotic pressure mediated by the oxidation of the internal buffer by reactive oxygen species (ROS). The ability to release vesicle contents in a rapid, spatio-temporally controlled manner suggests many potential applications, such as the targeted delivery of cancer chemotherapy drugs, and the controlled deposition of functionalized nanoparticles in microfluidic devices. Recent observations of light-triggered lysosome rupture in vivo suggest the possibility that a common mechanism may underlie light-triggered vesicle explosions and lysosome rupture.
Hybrid Screw Fixation for Femoral Neck Fractures: Does it prevent mechanical Failure?

Abstract Introduction Traditionally, femoral neck fracture fixation has been performed using three partially threaded cancellous screws. However, fracture collapse with femoral neck shortening, and varus deformation frequently occurs due to posterior medial comminution and lack of calcar support. We hypothesize replacing the inferior neck/calcar screw with a fully threaded, length stable, screw will provide improved biomechanical stability, decrease femoral neck shortening and varus collapse. Methods Ten matched cadaveric pairs (20 femurs) were randomly assigned to two screw fixation groups. Group 1 (Hybrid) utilized one fully threaded calcar screw & two partially threaded superior screws. Group 2 (PT) utilized all partially threaded screws. Specimens underwent standardized femoral neck osteotomies, 45° from the horizontal, with 5 mm posteromedial wedge removed to simulate posteromedial comminution. Screws were placed using fluoroscopic guidance. Specimens were biomechanically tested using two loading sequences: 1) Axial load applied up to 700N, followed by cyclic loading at 2 Hz with loads of 700 to 1,400N for 10,000 cycles. 2) All surviving constructs were cyclically loaded to failure in stepwise incremental manner with max load of 4,000N. Paired t-tests used to compare stiffness, cycles to failure, and max load to failure (defined as 15mm load actuator displacement). Results Construct stiffness was 2848 ± 344 N/mm in PT vs. 2767 ± 665 for Hybrid (P = 0.628). Load to failure demonstrated, hybrid superiority with max cycles to failure (3797 ± 400 cycles) vs. (2981 ± 856 cycles in PT) (p = 0.010), and max load prior to failure (3290 ±196 N) vs. (2891 ±421 N in PT) (p = 0.010). No significant difference in bone mineral density was noted in any of the specimens. Conclusions Our study is the first to assess the biomechanical effects of hybrid fixation for femoral neck fractures. Hybrid screw configuration resulted in significantly stronger constructs, with higher axial load and increased cycles prior to failure. The advantageous mechanical properties demonstrated using a fully threaded inferior calcar screw provides a length stable construct which may prevent the common complication of excessive femoral neck shortening, varus collapse and poor functional outcome.
More Systems of Special Interest

Among the multiple systems there are only four for which the motions of four components are described in terms of known orbital elements. These objects may be briefly mentioned here as a first group of particular interest.
Consistent Expression of an Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule (C-CAM) during Human Prostate Development and Loss of Expression in Prostate Cancer: Implication as a Tumor Suppressor

Abstract Cell adhesion molecules have been suggested to function as tumor suppressor molecules. We have been studying one of the epithelial cell adhesion molecules (C-CAM), which belongs to the immunoglobulin gene superfamily. Transfection of a C-CAM cDNA expression vector into a highly tumorigenic human prostate cancer cell line (PC-3) suppresses tumor formation in nude mice. Alternatively, reducing C-CAM expression levels in the nontumorigenic rat prostate epithelial cell line NbE by the antisense expression vector markedly increases tumorigenicity of NbE cells in nude mice. These results suggest that C-CAM may be a tumor suppressor in prostate cancer. In this study, we examined the relationship between C-CAM expression during human prostate development and neoplastic progression by immunohistochemical staining of frozen sections. C-CAM predominantly localized on the plasma membrane of the basal cell layer in both the fetal and normal adult prostate gland. However, an overall decreased staining was seen in benign prostatic hyperplasia and high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia. Furthermore, C-CAM was not detected in prostate carcinomas. Thus, a decrease in C-CAM expression may be an early event in hyperplastic/neoplastic transformation. These observations support the suggestion that C-CAM is a tumor suppressor in prostate cancer progression.
Purification and properties of a progesterone-induced basic glycoprotein from the uterine fluids of pigs.

Abstract The proteins present in the uterine secretions of pigs change both quantitatively and qualitatively during the normal estrous cycle. One of these proteins, which comprises about 15% of the total at Day 15 after estrus, is strongly basic and migrates toward the cathode during polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis at pH 7.0. It also has a characteristic lavender color with an extinction maximum at 545 nm (e = 1.76 x 103) and gives a positive reaction with periodic acidSchiff stain. In nonpregnant animals this protein is present in the uterus only between Days 12 and 16 after estrus but is absent from serum. It can, however, be induced at approximately the same time in ovariectomized animals given daily doses of progesterone or progesterone plus estrogen. Estrogen alone is ineffective. The protein has been purified from both normal and ovariectomized animals given progesterone by successive chromatography on Sephadex G-100 and CM-cellulose. It was homogeneous as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and by immunodiffusion criteria. The protein has a molecular weight of about 32,000 and an isoelectric point at approximately pH 9.7. Large amounts of basic amino acids are present and the molecule is about 12.5% carbohydrate by weight. Antiserum prepared against this protein does not cross-react with extracts from tissues other than the uterus.
Simulating Diffuse Light in Galaxy Clusters

Using N-body simulations, we have modeled the production and evolution of low surface brightness, diffuse intra-cluster light (ICL) in galaxy clusters. By creating simulated observations of the clusters we have measured the evolution of the ICL luminosity throughout the dynamical history of the clusters. We find that ICL production tends to occur in short, discrete events, which correlate very strongly with strong, small-scale interactions and accretions between groups within the clusters.
Effectiveness of proton pump inhibitors: beyond cost

As a drug class, proton pump inhibitors are excellent pharmacologic agents for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. All 5 of the agents discussed here are exceptionally effective, so much so that cost has often superseded other outcome measures as a primary reason for the choice of agent. This article reviews other important outcome measures including control of intragastric pH, healing, symptom relief, improvement in quality of life, sleep, and increase in work productivity in an effort to "move beyond cost" in decision-making related to patient care.
Experimental 2.0 V power/performance optimization of a 3.6 V-design CMOS microprocessor-PowerPC 601

An experimental 2.0 V PowerPC 601 microprocessor demonstrating 3/spl times/ active power reduction and performance comparable to the 3.6 V version has been fabricated. The standard 3.6 V 0.6 /spl mu/m CMOS technology was modified for low-power operation with unmodified circuits/masks. No degradation to yield was observed. Experimental low-voltage PowerPC 601 process/device alterations and test results are described. >
ULTRASTRUCTURE OF DRY SEED TISSUE AFTER A NON‐AQUEOUS PRIMARY FIXATION

Summary A primary fixative of formaldehyde and glycerol is presented as an essentially non-aqueous medium for the preservation of dry material, such as seeds, for electron microscopic studies. Good preservation of the ultrastructure of the parenchyma cells of cotyledons of dry seeds of mungbean was obtained with this fixative. In these cells the nuclei, plastids, protein bodies and mitochondria were easily identified. In some parenchyma cells, stacked arrays of ribosomes were observed that were similar to ordered arrays of rough endoplasmic reticulum although the membrane elements were poorly defined. In general, all membranes including the plasmaiemma were ill defined, suggesting that, in dry seeds, membranes are disorganized from the topical bilayered structure.
Influence of the double barrier on the quadrupole absorption component of photofission

Abstract The dominance of the quadrupole component in near-threshold photofission of 240 Pu and its near absence in 232 Th is shown to follow naturally from the properties of the doublehumped fission barriers.
Ultrasound-Induced Nanofragmentation of Bubbles with Saturated and Unsaturated Lipid Coats

Micron-sized lipid-coated bubbles are of considerable interest for applications in biomedical imaging and drug delivery. These bubbles have been reported to rapidly shrink when exposed to a series of short (∼3 μs) ultrasound pulses, purportedly through a shedding of the coat during compression. Loss of coat would lead to an increase in surface tension and internal bubble pressure, enhancing diffusive loss of gas from the bubble long after the ultrasound pulse. For this mechanism, a coated bubble in ultrasound could shrink no faster than an uncoated bubble (absent ultrasound), as the shrinkage rate is entirely dominated by diffusive loss between pulses. Remarkably, we find that most insonated lipid-coated bubbles do shrink faster than quiescent uncoated bubbles. For the extra shrinkage observed to occur by enhanced diffusive loss during the 3 μs pulse, the diffusion coefficient of the gas would have to be increased by 100-1000x. If bubbles cannot shrink by diffusive loss of the gas, they must eject gas-entrapping fragments, even though no microscopically visible fragmentation was observed.We have also studied the role of the lipid coat in bubble stability. We (and others) have observed that bubbles with saturated lipid coats shrink to a stable size of about 2 μm in diameter that persists indefinitely. Interestingly, we find that bubbles coated with an unsaturated lipid shrink to the same stable size, but it is short lived and the bubble catastrophically fragments after about 25-200 pulses. The differing fates of bubbles, and the nature of their fragmentation products, may have important consequences for efficacy in ultrasound-mediated drug delivery.(This work was supported by NSF Grant DGE 0549500)
Eutrophication of U.S. freshwaters: analysis of potential economic damages.

Human-induced eutrophication degrades freshwater systems worldwide by reducing water quality and altering ecosystem structure and function. We compared current total nitrogen (TN) and phosphorus (TP) concentrations for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency nutrient ecoregions with estimated reference conditions. In all nutrient ecoregions, current median TN and TP values for rivers and lakes exceeded reference median values. In 12 of 14 ecoregions, over 90% of rivers currently exceed reference median values. We calculated potential annual value losses in recreational water usage, waterfront real estate, spending on recovery of threatened and endangered species, and drinking water. The combined costs were approximately $2.2 billion annually as a result of eutrophication in U.S. freshwaters. The greatest economic losses were attributed to lakefront property values ($0.3-2.8 billion per year, although this number was poorly constrained) and recreational use ($0.37-1.16 billion per year). Our evaluation likely underestimates economic losses incurred from freshwater eutrophication. We document potential costs to identify where restoring natural nutrient regimes can have the greatest economic benefits. Our research exposes gaps in current records (e.g., accounting for frequency of algal bloomsandfishkills)andsuggestsfurtherresearchisnecessary to refine cost estimates.
User‐centered design of collaboration technology

Groupware, like other forms of information technology, should be designed with the users’ needs and capabilities as the focus. User‐centered system design consists of observation and analysis of users at work, assistance in design from relevant aspects of theory, and iterative testing with users. We illustrate the various stages of this approach with our development of group ware for software designers. We have extensive studies of designers at work, have developed the beginnings of a theory of distributed cognition, and are at the first stages of iterative testing and redesign of a prototype of a shared editor to support their work.
A simple procedure for preparation and assay of small quantities of 14C‐labeled long‐chain aliphatic aldehyde

(l-14C)-dodecanal was synthesized from (l-14C)-dodecanoic acid. The two-step synthesis beginning with 0.9 mg of the acid resulted in an overall yield of 42 % after purification. The final product was separated from the starting material and side products by silicic acid column chromatography. Purity was verified by thin layer chromatography and stimulation of light emission catalysed by bacterial luciferase.
Definition of the concept “vector” in set theoretic programming languages

Abstract A basic set of data types for a set theoretic programming language is presented. The emphasis is on a certain definition of vector in terms of sets. The definition is contrasted with other methods of defining vectors in terms of sets, such as Kuratowski's device.
Wnt Proteins Prevent Apoptosis of Both Uncommitted Osteoblast Progenitors and Differentiated Osteoblasts by β-Catenin-dependent and -independent Signaling Cascades Involving Src/ERK and Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/AKT

Genetic studies in humans and mice have revealed an important role of the Wnt signaling pathway in the regulation of bone mass, resulting from potent effects on the control of osteoblast progenitor proliferation, commitment, differentiation, and perhaps osteoblast apoptosis. To establish the linkage between Wnts and osteoblast survival and to elucidate the molecular pathways that link the two, we have utilized three cell models: the uncommitted bipotential C2C12 cells, the pre-osteoblastic cell line MC3T3-E1, and bone marrow-derived OB-6 osteoblasts. Serum withdrawal-induced apoptosis was prevented by the canonical Wnts (Wnt3a and Wnt1) and the noncanonical Wnt5a in all cell types. Wnt3a induced LRP5-independent transient phosphorylation and nuclear accumulation of ERKs and phosphorylation of Src and Akt. The anti-apoptotic effect of Wnt3a was abrogated by inhibitors of canonical Wnt signaling, as well as by inhibitors of MEK, Src, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), or Akt kinases, or by the addition of cycloheximide to the culture medium. Wnt3a-induced phosphorylation of GSK-3β and downstream activation of β-catenin-mediated transcription required ERK, PI3K, and Akt signaling. Wnt3a increased the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 in an ERK-dependent manner. β-Catenin-mediated transcription was permissive for the anti-apoptotic actions of Wnt1 and Wnt3a but was dispensable for the anti-apoptotic action of Wnt5a. However, Src, ERKs, PI3K, and Akt kinases were required for the anti-apoptotic effects of Wnt5a. These results demonstrate for the first time that Wnt proteins, irrespective of their ability to stimulate canonical Wnt signaling, prolong the survival of osteoblasts and uncommitted osteoblast progenitors via activation of the Src/ERK and PI3K/Akt signaling cascades.
Graft hemostasis: an alternative to preclotting.

Abstract An alternative to preclotting prosthetic grafts has proved to be simple, safe, and effective in the already heparinized patient. The prosthetic graft or patch is soaked in the patient's blood obtained after systemic heparinization, autoclaved for three minutes at 131°C (270°F), and then inserted.
Predictors of death within six months in patients with advanced AIDS.

Objectives: This study sought to identify potential predictive variables of death within 6 months in patients with advanced AIDS.Methods: Investigators enrolled a consecutive series of patients with advanced AIDS admitted to a skilled nursing facility in New York City over a 1-year period. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and outcome data were abstracted from medical records using a standardized data collection instrument.Results: Of the 152 patients enrolled during the study period, 61 patients (40%) died within 6 months from date of admission. Serum albumin, percent deviation from ideal body weight, and number of comorbidities at the time of admission proved to be the best combination of predictors of death within 6 months.Significance of results: The decrease in AIDS mortality over the past decade, along with an increase in prevalence due to longer survival, has been attributed primarily to the successful use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). HAART regimens, however, can also produce both short-term adverse effects and long-term complications. The prognostic model developed by this study may be useful in guiding treatment decisions in patients with advanced AIDS for whom a more palliative care plan may be sought.
Penetrating thoracic trauma in a pediatric population.

Introduction. Penetrating thoracic trauma in the pediatric population is increasing at an alarming rate. We sought to describe this population and to define prognostic factors that might be of benefit in the management of these patients. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the charts and trauma registry records of 65 patients 18 years of age and younger admitted to an urban level 1 trauma center with the diagnosis of penetrating thoracic trauma. Results. The majority of the patients were adolescent boys. Injury severity score greater than 25 and a corrected admission pH less than 7.3 were associated with higher mortality and increased need for surgical intervention. Isolated thoracic injury was found to be associated with a high mortality rate. Autotransfused blood was used in 9 of the 65 patients Conclusions. Injury severity score and corrected admission pH are independent predictors of mortality and need for operation in the pediatric population with penetrating chest injuries. Penetrating thoracic wounds demand special attention by the trauma team. The use of autotransfusion may be beneficial in pediatric trauma victims.
Three-Dimensional Optical Random Access Memory Materials for Use as Radiation Dosimeters

This article describes the development of the first three-dimensional optical random access memory (3D-ORAM) material and readout system for monitoring energetic neutrons. Two different photochromic dyes, 5'-chloro-6-nitro-1',3',3'-trimethylspiro-[2H-1-benzopyran-2,2'-in doline] (spirobenzopyran) and anthracene, have been investigated for use in these 3-D ORAM dosimeter materials. These dyes were immobilized in a poly(methyl methacrylate) support, and the resulting dosimeter materials were irradiated with neutrons from a Cf-252 source. Fluorescence measurements from the dosimeter show a dramatic decrease in the overall fluorescence intensity of the 3D-ORAM dosimeter exposed to the Cf-252, relative to a nonirradiated dosimeter. In addition, a two-photon excitation readout system has been developed for determining characteristics of the radiation that are necessary for estimating dose.
Which four-part partition games are isomorphic to Silverman's game?

Abstract A four-part partition game on a rectangle is a two-person zero-sum game where the pure strategy sets are intervals and the resulting rectangle is partitioned by three curves into four regions, on each of which the payoff is constant. Such a game is essentially a generalization of Silverman's game, which has been studied extensively by the author and others. It has been shown previously that if two of the partitioning curves of suitable type are given, and the four payoffs are suitably related, there is a unique choice of the third curve for which the game is isomorphic to Silverman's game. In the present note this third curve is expressed explicitly in terms of the first two, provided that one of the two given curves is the middle one of the three.
An Overview on Numerical Techniques for Modeling 3-Dimensional Passive Components

A number of numerical techniques are described for the analysis of passive components. Fundamental concepts and typical applications are presented and discussed. A list of references is included for representative works reported in literature.
Characterization of choline metabolism and secretion by human placental trophoblasts in culture

Choline is an essential nutrient for fetal development and may be utilized to form phospholipids such as phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin; to synthesize the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine; and to donate methyl groups after being oxidized to betaine. Since the majority of choline required for fetal growth must be transported by the placenta from the maternal circulation, we examined the ability of isolated human trophoblasts to metabolize choline and to release choline and its metabolites into culture medium. Cytotrophoblasts were isolated from normal, full-term human placentas and incubated with [14C]choline for 3 h; the cells were washed to remove extracellular radiolabel, and the changes in intracellular and medium choline pools were followed for an additional 24 h. During the incubation, choline rapidly reached steady state intracellularly and label was incorporated into betaine, phosphocholine, cytidylyldiphosphocholine, phosphatidylcholine, glycerophosphocholine, lysophosphatidylcholine, and sphingomyelin. All labeled choline metabolites in cells, except glycerophosphocholine, decreased at 6 and 27 h of incubation (3 and 24 h, respectively, after labeled choline was removed), and labeled metabolites appeared in media. By 24 h after labeled choline was removed, the major labeled metabolites in the media were choline (82%), betaine (11%), and glycerophosphocholine (5%). Small amounts of phosphatidylcholine (1%), and lysophosphatidylcholine (1%) were found. Acetylcholine was a very minor choline metabolite in these cells. When placental cells were incubated for 66 h after isolation, they formed syncytiotrophoblasts, which incorporated labeled choline into metabolites in a similar pattern to cytotrophoblasts. These data indicate that isolated trophoblast cells can metabolize choline to form all of its major metabolites and that several metabolites are released to the medium in significant amounts. Thus, our data suggest that the major metabolite supplied to the fetus may be choline, but that betaine and glycerophosphocholine may also be vehicles for transfer of choline equivalents from mother to fetus.
Light scattering by laser mirrors.

The Beckmann theory of scattering is applied to laser mirrors. It is shown that the theory correctly predicts the wavelength dependence of scattering profiles. The theory can be used to obtain numbers (σ and T) for a laser mirror which describe its scattering characteristics. Scattering measurements made on eleven laser mirrors are presented.
The structure of incomes and social protection during the transition: The case of Bulgaria

BULGARIA IS A LOWER-MIDDLE INCOME COUNTRY with a population of about 8.5 million. In late 1989 it began introducing radical political and economic changes aimed at transforming the country into a pluralistic, market-based democracy. Up to that point, practically all segments of economic activity were controlled by the state, with the exception of small family plots in agriculture and most private housing. Like most economies in transition, Bulgaria had a comprehensive social safety net, including a commitment to and virtual achievement of full employment, comprehensive retirement and disability pensions, and free health and education services. No unemployment benefits existed and social assistance was virtually non-existent, as full employment and social insurance rendered them unnecessary. Furthermore, explicit income inequality was very low, compared with market economies, as the explicit wage scale was highly compressed. However, some elements of society had greater access to in-kind income, to rationed commodities, to Western goods, and to better quality medical services, indicating that implicit income inequality was higher than measured inequality, as was typical for former communist societies. The economic outcome of the transition in Central and Eastern Europe so far has been a dramatic decline in output, a sharp drop in real wages, and a rapid rise in the level of unemployment. In this respect Bulgaria is no exception. These pose difficult problems for social policy, not least of which is the issue of how effective the existing social safety net is in reaching the poor. The objective of this article is to analyse the sources of income, income inequality, the characteristics of lower income groups and their implications for the social safety net in Bulgaria, in the midst of the transition. Bulgaria is a good case study for several reasons. First, Bulgaria suffered a large external demand shock as a result of the transition-possibly the largest in Eastern and Central Europe-owing to its trade dependence on Council of Mutual Economic Assistance (CMEA) economies and other countries (Libya, Iraq, the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia) affected by UN sanctions. As a result, it has endured one of the largest drops in output and incomes in the former CMEA countries. After experiencing a massive contraction in output between 1989 and 1993 (cumulative decline in GDP of about one-third) the Bulgarian economy grew by 1.4% in 1994. This improvement in the real economy seems to have been maintained in 1995.
PICTOGRAPHS TODAY AND TOMORROW

Dr. Modley was formerly Assistant to the Director of the Social Museum in Vienna and Curator of Social Sciences at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. He has been Executive Director of Pictorial Statistics, Inc., since I934. He is a consultant for many government agencies, author of "How to Use Pictorial Statistics," and co-author (with Louis M. Hacker) of "The United States, a Graphic History."
Self learning for autonomous systems

Abstract Learning is a key element in the strive for machine intelligence. Unsupervised learning is even more important for robots or autonomous systems that operate in remote environment away from human interactions, such as the case in the fully automated factory floor. To achieve unsupervised learning, a variety of models and techniques have been employed by investigators. In this paper some of the models, especially in the area of Neural Networks are compared and contrasted. Special consideration will be given self organizing maps (Kohonen Networks) [1,6]. A comparison of the Kohonen Networks and their biological counterparts is given. The introduction of these systems to increase the intelligence, and hence the autonomy of systems, is considered.
NODAL STRUCTURE AND THE PARTITIONING OF EQUIVALENCE CLASSES

By definition, all of the stimuli in an equivalence class have to be functionally interchangeable with each other. The present experiment, however, demonstrated that this was not the case when using post-class-formation dual-option response transfer tests. With college students, two 4-node 6-member equivalence classes with nodal structures of A→B→C→D→E→F were produced by training AB, BC, CD, DE, and EF. Then, unique responses were trained to the C and D stimuli in each class. The responses trained to C generalized to B and A, while the responses trained to D generalized to E and F. Thus, each 4-node 6-member equivalence class was bifurcated into two 3-member functional classes: A→B→C and D→E→F, with class membership precisely predicted by nodal structure. A final emergent relations test documented the intactness of the underlying 4-node 6-member equivalence classes. The coexistence of the interchangeability of stimuli in an equivalence class and the bifurcation of such a class in terms of nodal structure was explained in the following manner. The conditional discriminations that are used to establish a class also imposes a nodal structure on the stimuli in the class. Thus, the stimuli in the class acquire two sets of relational properties. If the format of a test trial allows only one response option per class, responding on those trials will be in accordance with class membership and will not express the effects of nodal distance. If the format of a test trial allows more than one response option per class, responding on those trials will be determined by the nodal structure of the class. Thus, the relational properties expressed by the stimuli in an equivalence class are determined by the discriminative function served by the format of a test trial.
Slips of the tongue in very young children.

This paper investigates the difference in the frequency with which adults and young children make slips of the tongue. The slips analyzed were taken from two corpora of speech. The first consists of the speech of one child in interaction with her mother; the second corpus consists of the speech of eight children in interaction with their teacher. The results suggest that young children make significantly fewer slips than do adults. This finding is consistent with a psychoanalytic understanding of slips-i.e., that young children should make fewer slips because they are less inclined to suppress and repress ideas and impulses.
Vibration frequencies of a rotating tapered beam with end mass

Abstract The natural frequencies of vibration of a rotating tapered beam with tip mass are investigated. Explicit expressions for the finite element mass and stiffness matrices are derived by using a consistent mass formulation. The beam is assumed to be linearly tapered in two planes. The generalized eigenvalue problem is defined and numerical solutions are generated for a wide range of rotational speed and tip mass variations. Both fixed and hinged end conditions are considered. Comparisons are made, whenever possible, with exact solutions and numerical results available in the literature. The results display high accuracy when compared with the exact solutions.
Partial purification of a mitotic suppressor from the salivary gland.

Abstract A single injection of isoproterenol greatly stimulates DNA synthesis in the submandibular glands of rat and mouse. With the administration of cell-free homogenates of salivary glands this stimulatory effect can be suppressed. Homogenates of salivary glands of rats or mice treated with the drug, however, have no such effect. An active factor, which suppresses the isoproterenol-stimulated DNA synthesis has been partially purified from mouse submandibular gland.
Psychiatric and psychosocial aspects of bone marrow transplantation

Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is being increasingly used to treat children and adults with a variety of life-threatening diseases. Although BMT is a life-saving intervention in many instances, it is a high-technology procedure—both aggressive and life-threatening—associated with an array of physical and psychological stressors. Therefore, psychiatric and psychosocial research and intervention can greatly contribute to the understanding and management of BMT recipients, donors, and their families. Seven major areas of psychiatric and psychosocial concern in BMT are identified and the literature relevant to each area is reviewed.
A Comparative Evaluation of Oral Contraceptive Use and Associated Compliance Issues in a Rural Population

Abstract One hundred thirty-three patients were enrolled in a study designed to evaluate and compare oral contraceptive use in three rural communities. The patients averaged 31 years old (range, 13 to 49 years); 92% were white, 4.5% Hispanic, and 3% Native American. Genora ® , Ortho-Novum ® , and Triphasil ® were the most frequently prescribed oral contraceptives. Triphasic oral contraceptives accounted for one third (n = 64) of 203 prescriptions, and conventional monoplastic preparations accounted for two thirds. Twenty percent (n = 26) of the patients studied were non-compliant. The most frequent causes of noncompliance cited were cost and inconvenience. However, generic alternatives were requested in only 43% of the cases for which generic equivalents were available. Less-expensive alternatives (eg, generic products, medroxyprogestrone acetate injection) should be advocated to deter patient noncompliance because of cost issues. Drug interactions and adverse effects were not reported in our patient population and thus did not contribute to noncompliance.
Biorthogonal Wavelets for Fast Matrix Computations

In [1], Beylkin et al. introduced a wavelet-based algorithm that approximates integral or matrix operators of a certain type by highly sparse matrices, as the basis for efficient approximate calculations. The wavelets best suited for achieving the highest possible compression with this algorithm are Daubechies wavelets, while Coiflets lead to a faster decomposition algorithm at slightly lesser compression. We observe that the same algorithm can be based on biorthogonal instead of orthogonal wavelets, and derive two classes of biorthogonal wavelets that achieve high compression and high decomposition speed, respectively. In numerical experiments, these biorthogonal wavelets achieved both higher compression and higher speed than their wavelet counterparts, at comparable accuracy.
OSA and Pulmonary Hypertension: Time for a New Look

OSA is a common yet underdiagnosed disorder encountered in everyday practice. The disease is a unique physiologic stressor that contributes to the development or progression of many other disorders, particularly cardiovascular conditions. The pulmonary circulation is specifically affected by the intermittent hypoxic apneas associated with OSA. The general consensus has been that OSA is associated with pulmonary hypertension (PH), but only in a minority of OSA patients and generally of a mild degree. Consequently, there has been no sense of urgency to screen for either condition when evaluating the other. In this review, we explore available evidence describing the interaction between OSA and PH and seek to better understand underlying pathophysiology. We describe certain groups of patients who have a particular preponderance of OSA and PH. Failure to recognize the mutual additive effects of these disorders can lead to suboptimal patient outcomes. Among patients with PH and OSA, CPAP, the mainstay treatment for OSA, may ameliorate pulmonary pressure elevations, but has not been studied adequately. Conversely, among patients with OSA, PH significantly limits functional capacity and potentially shortens survival; yet, there is no routine screening for PH in patients with OSA. We think it is time to study the interaction between OSA and PH more carefully to identify high-risk subgroups. These would be screened for the presence of combined disorders, facilitating earlier institution of therapy and improving outcomes.
Multi-Level Periodic Leaky-Mode Resonance Elements: Design and Applications

Using particle swarm optimization, we design new reflectors and polarizers exhibiting flat spectral bands that are extraordinarily wide. The designed three-level broadband reflector and polarizer show bandwidths of 740 nm and 300 nm, respectively.
Reversal of Galvanotropism in Echinoderms

Les resultats de cette experience montrent que par l'action de la strychnine (injectee) il est possible de renverser le galvanotropisme normalement cathodique de Leptosynapta, d'Asterias, et d'Henr...
Melting curves of argon and methane

The melting curves of argon and of methane have been measured in a diamond-anvil cell from 290 to>700 K. Measurements of argon, fit to the equation P−6.9×10−5=0.244[(T/83.805)1.476−1], are in excellent agreement with previously published values up to a temperature of ∼ 500 K and thereafter diverge slowly. Measurements of methane, fit to P−1.17×10−5=0.208[(T/90.6941)1.698−1], are in serious disagreement with the only previous studies to extend past 400 K.
Adenovirus-specific translation by displacement of kinase Mnk1 from cap-initiation complex eIF4F

Translation of cellular mRNAs involves formation of a cap-binding translation initiation complex known as eIF4F, containing phosphorylated cap-binding protein eIF4E, eIF4E kinase Mnk1, eIF4A, poly(A)-binding protein and eIF4G. Adenovirus is shown to prevent cellular translation by displacing Mnk1 from eIF4F, thereby blocking phosphorylation of eIF4E. Over expression of an eIF4E mutant that cannot be phosphorylated by Mnk1 impairs translation of cellular but not viral late mRNAs. Adenovirus 100k protein is shown to bind the C-terminus of eIF4G in vivo and in vitro, the same region bound by Mnk1. In vivo, 100k protein displaces Mnk1 from eIF4G during adenovirus infection, or in transfected cells. Purified 100k protein also evicts Mnk1 from isolated eIF4F complexes in vitro. A mutant adenovirus with a temperature-sensitive 100k protein that cannot inhibit cellular protein synthesis at restrictive temperature no longer blocks Mnk1 binding to eIF4G, or phosphorylation of eIF4E. We describe a mechanism whereby adenovirus selectively inhibits the translation of cellular but not viral mRNAs by displacement of Mnk1 from eIF4G and inhibition of eIF4E phosphorylation.
OPTIMIZATION OF COUPLED NONLINEAR SYSTEMS

A coupling perturbation method is developed for near optimum design of non-linear systems. A scalar parameter ϵ is introduced in an nth-order system such that for ϵ ϵ = the system decouples into two (or more) independent low-order sub-systems. By the same procedure ϵ is introduced into the performance index. The near optimal control u¯ is defined as a truncated power series in ϵ. It is shown that each term of the above series can be sequentially obtained by separate sub-system calculations. Thus a considerable saving in computational effort is achieved Two examples are presented and the results compared with those obtained by conventional iterative methods. Applicability of the method to problems which cannot be solved by conventional methods is also discussed.
Victimization, Victims' Needs, and Empowerment in Victim Offender Mediation:

This exploratory qualitative study examined victims' experiences in a Victim Offender Mediation (VOM). The focus was on the needs of the victims and to what extent the needs were met through VOM. I...
A gut-specific chitinase gene essential for regulation of chitin content of peritrophic matrix and growth of Ostrinia nubilalis larvae.

Abstract Chitinases belong to a large and diverse family of hydrolytic enzymes that break down glycosidic bonds of chitin. However, very little is known about the function of chitinase genes in regulating the chitin content in peritrophic matrix (PM) of the midgut in insects. We identified a cDNA putatively encoding a chitinase ( OnCht ) in European corn borer (ECB; Ostrinia nubilalis ). The OnCht transcript was predominately found in larval midgut but undetectable in eggs, pupae, or adults. When the larvae were fed on an artificial diet, the OnCht transcript level increased by 4.4-fold but the transcript level of a gut-specific chitin synthase ( OnCHS2 ) gene decreased by 2.5-fold as compared with those of unfed larvae. In contrast, when the larvae were fed with the food and then starved for 24 h, the OnCht transcript level decreased by 1.8-fold but the transcript level of OnCHS2 increased by 1.8-fold. Furthermore, there was a negative relationship between OnCht transcript level and chitin content in the midgut. By using a feeding-based RNAi technique, we were able to reduce the OnCht transcript level by 63-64% in the larval midgut. Consequently, these larvae showed significantly increased chitin content (26%) in the PM but decreased larval body weight (54%) as compared with the control larvae fed on the diet containing GFP dsRNA. Therefore, for the first time, we provide strong evidence that OnCht plays an important role in regulating chitin content of the PM and subsequently affecting the growth and development of the ECB larvae.
Unilateral iliac artery stenting improves perfusion and symptoms in both limbs in patients with bilateral iliac lesions.

PURPOSE To test the hypothesis that unilateral dilation of a common (CIA) or internal iliac artery (IIA) stenosis in selected patients with contralateral chronic iliac artery occlusion is adequate to offer clinical benefit to the untreated chronically occluded limb. METHODS Sixteen patients (11 men; mean age 66.7±4.9 years) with chronic occlusion of one CIA [with or without extension to the external iliac artery (EIA)] and CIA stenosis (n=11), IIA stenosis (n=3), CIA and IIA stenoses (n=1), or IIA and EIA stenoses (n=1) on the contralateral side were treated with unilateral angioplasty/stenting of the iliac artery stenosis as sole treatment for both limbs. Clinical and hemodynamic success of this approach was assessed for both limbs. RESULTS Eleven patients were treated with stenting of the stenosed CIA, 2 with IIA dilation, one with IIA stenting, one with stenting of both the CIA and IIA, and the last with IIA and EIA stenting. Technical success was obtained in all. Immediate hemodynamic success was also 100% for both limbs: the mean resting ankle-brachial index increased from 0.67±0.06 to 0.88 ± 0.04 on the stenosis side and from to 0.53±0.06 to 0.69±0.07 in the contralateral occluded limb (p<0.001). Clinical success was 100% for the treated limb immediately after the procedure and 93.8% for the contralateral limb. One patient with ischemic rest pain in the occluded limb continued to experience severe symptoms after contralateral CIA stenting despite hemodynamic improvement; he had a femorofemoral graft implanted 2 months after the initial intervention and was considered the only clinical failure. During a mean 24-month follow-up (range 12-54), all stented arteries remained patent. CONCLUSION In selected patients with CIA or IIA stenosis and long chronic occlusion of the contralateral iliac axis, unilateral dilation/stenting of the stenosis alone increases blood flow and improves clinical symptoms to both limbs.
Shell-correction method for calculating the binding energy of metal clusters: Application to multiply charged anions.

Utilizing the nuclear-physics concept of separating, as a function of size, the total energy of a finite system into two parts, a [ital smooth] contribution and a shell correction, we introduce a method of calculating the binding energy of metal clusters. The method consists of a determination of the smooth part of the total energy from an extended Thomas Fermi approach to density-functional theory, and of superimposing on it a shell correction introduced through the kinetic-energy contribution. While circumventing a self-consistent iterative solution of the effective single-particle Kohn-Sham equations, the present method yields results in excellent agreement with such self-consistent calculations, but with considerable savings in computation time, thus allowing for an efficient approach for accurate systematic investigations of cluster properties for a wide range of sizes. As an application of the method, we study energetics and decay modes of multiply charged anionic metal clusters. Singly charged anions are stable for all sizes, but multiply charged negative ions are stable against spontaneous electron decay only above certain critical sizes. Below the border of stability, the cluster anions are metastable against electron tunneling through a Coulombic barrier. Lifetimes for such decay processes are estimated. Fission channels, which may compete with electronmore » autodetachment, are studied for the case of doubly charged anions.« less
Exploiting parallelism in a structural scientific discovery system to improve scalability

The large amount of data collected today is quickly overwhelming researchers' abilities to interpret the data and discover interesting patterns. Knowledge discovery and data mining approaches hold the potential to automate the interpretation process, but these approaches frequently utilize computationally expensive algorithms. In particular, scientific discovery systems focus on the utilization of richer data representation, sometimes without regard for scalability. This research investigates approaches for scaling a particular knowledge discovery in databases (KDD) system, SUBDUE, using parallel and distributed resources. SUBDUE has been used to discover interesting and repetitive concepts in graph-based databases from a variety of domains, but requires a substantial amount of processing time. Experiments that demonstrate scalability of parallel versions of the SUBDUE system are performed using CAD circuit databases and artificially-generated databases, and potential achievements and obstacles are discussed.