cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A fast algorithm for finding interlocking sets

Consider a set of intervals on the real line. Two such intervals [i, j] and [k, m] interlock if either i < k <j < m or k < i < m <j. An interlocking set is a set of intervals in which every two intervals are related in the symmetric-transitive closure of the interlock relation (Fig. 1). The problem considered here is to partition a set of intervals into maximal interlocking sets. An obvious approach to the problem of locating interlocking sets is to construct an interlock graph having one vertex for each interval and an edge between vertices x and y if and only if intervals x and y interlock. The maximal interlocking sets then correspond to the connected components of this graph. Constructing the interlock graph in a straightforward fashion requires time O(n2). In this paper we show how to find the interlocking sets in time ’ O(na(n)). Our method assumes that the endpoints of the intervals are presented in sorted order-if not, then the time is O(n log n). The determination of interlocking sets has an application in single-row routing [3,6]. There, a set of two-point nets lying in a single row is given. The goal is to find a routing of the nets that minimizes the maximum channel width (provided a routing exists). A solution to this routing prob-
Xylan Utilization Regulon in Xanthomonas citri pv. citri Strain 306: Gene Expression and Utilization of Oligoxylosides

Xanthomonas citri pv. citri strain 306 (Xcc306), a causative agent of citrus canker, produces endoxylanases that catalyze the depolymerization of cell wall-associated xylans. In the sequenced genomes of all plant-pathogenic xanthomonads, genes encoding xylanolytic enzymes are clustered in three adjacent operons. In Xcc306, these consecutive operons contain genes encoding the glycoside hydrolase family 10 (GH10) endoxylanases Xyn10A and Xyn10C, the agu67 gene, encoding a GH67 α-glucuronidase (Agu67), the xyn43E gene, encoding a putative GH43 α-l-arabinofuranosidase, and the xyn43F gene, encoding a putative β-xylosidase. Recombinant Xyn10A and Xyn10C convert polymeric 4-O-methylglucuronoxylan (MeGXn) to oligoxylosides methylglucuronoxylotriose (MeGX3), xylotriose (X3), and xylobiose (X2). Xcc306 completely utilizes MeGXn predigested with Xyn10A or Xyn10C but shows little utilization of MeGXn. Xcc306 with a deletion in the gene encoding α-glucuronidase (Xcc306 Δagu67) will not utilize MeGX3 for growth, demonstrating the role of Agu67 in the complete utilization of GH10-digested MeGXn. Preferential growth on oligoxylosides compared to growth on polymeric MeGXn indicates that GH10 xylanases, either secreted by Xcc306 in planta or produced by the plant host, generate oligoxylosides that are processed by Xyn10 xylanases and Agu67 residing in the periplasm. Coordinate induction by oligoxylosides of xyn10, agu67, cirA, the tonB receptor, and other genes within these three operons indicates that they constitute a regulon that is responsive to the oligoxylosides generated by the action of Xcc306 GH10 xylanases on MeGXn. The combined expression of genes in this regulon may allow scavenging of oligoxylosides derived from cell wall deconstruction, thereby contributing to the tissue colonization and/or survival of Xcc306 and, ultimately, to plant disease.
Supersonic Flow Patterns from Electrothermal Plasma Source for Simulated Ablation and Aerosol Expansion Following a Fusion Disruption

A pulsed electrothermal plasma source of a capillary discharge operating in the confined controlled arc regime is investigated to simulate the source term for ablation-induced regime of fusion reactor following hard disruption, in which ablation of diverter surface produces large aerosol transporting into the vacuum vessel. The source is attached to a converging–diverging micro-nozzle transition region to allow for the plasma flow and expansion into a large volume simulating large chamber of fusion reactor aerosol expansion to facilitate modeling of the plasma transport. This transition region connects to a 4 mm diameter capillary source and has a 3.33 mm converging section with a 2° converging angle, followed by a 146.7 mm diverging section with a 60° diverging angle, thus making an overall transition length of ~150 mm. The diverging section has an exit diameter of 50.82 cm to open into a large volume of the same exit diameter and a length of 1 m. Preliminary computation results indicate about 21 Mach number at the diverging exit and drops down to 0.7 Mach number after suffering from multiple shocks in the large uniform expansion volume. The plasma parameters entering the large chamber are maintained constant along the axis of the chamber for a simulated 1-D condition.
G27.4+0.0 - A galactic supernova remnant with a central compact source

High-resolution X-ray and radio images of the galactic supernova remnant G27.4+0.0 are presented. The X-ray image reveals a centrally located compact source of emission which accounts for 25 percent + or - 2 percent of the emission. The rest of the emission is found in diffuse patches defining a circle of diameter 4 arc min. The radio image is an incomplete shell of comparable diameter with no apparent counterpart to the compact X-ray source. The X-ray luminosity of the supernova remmant implied by the distance of 26 kpc inferred from the Sigma-D relationship exceeds that of any known remnant. This fact, plus the relatively low X-ray absorption, suggests that the remnant is substantially closer than 26 kpc. No X-ray variability of the central source has been detected to a level of 50 percent on time scales of about 1 year, and no periodicity in the range 0.0001-100 Hz to a limit of 16 percent was detected. If G27.4 +0.0 is within a few kiloparsecs, the central source is most likely to be an accretion-powered X-ray binary.
Cytologic diagnosis of bile peritonitis

Bile peritonitis (BP) is a rare but acute and serious condition that may be associated with high mortality. BP results from generalized or localized leakage of bile into the peritoneal cavity. At best, radiologic studies may be suggestive of BP. We observed a spectrum of cytologic findings in aspirated peritoneal fluids (PF) from 3 patients with BP. Occasional bile pigment-laden macrophages, extracellular lakes of green stringy material admixed with variable numbers of histiocytes, mesothelial cells, and acute and chronic inflammatory cells, were seen. Numerous candida were present in one case. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing the cytologic features of BP. Cytology is a simple, rapid, and cost-effective means of examining PF, and can therefore play a significant role in establishing the diagnosis of BP. Early recognition of BP can result in rapid, therapeutic intervention that may prevent significant morbidity and mortality.
Books, Bureaus, and the Historiography of Cameralism

This paper traces a deep rift in the historiography of cameralism, demonstrating how historians have systematically separated cameralist writings from the context of the Holy Roman Empire’s fiscal chambers. Scholarship on the subject has been largely defined by an artificial separation between “cameralists of the book” and “cameralists of the bureau.” I argue that it is time to interrogate this distinction, which is itself a legacy of the nineteenth century.
Sonoclot analysis in healthy children.

UNLABELLED Although use of the Sonoclot device (Sienco, Inc., Morrison, CO) has been reported in isolated pediatric cases and in small reports in neonates, there are no published data for normal pediatric patients. As the device is used in situations of abnormal coagulation, such as cardiac and liver transplantation surgery, our aim was to determine normal data ranges in healthy pediatric surgical patients. Blood was withdrawn after anesthetic induction, and the Sonoclot activated clotting time, rate of clot formation, time to peak amplitude, and peak amplitude was compared among four pediatric groups (< 12 mo, 13-24 mo, 25-48 mo, 49 mo-9 yr) and an adult group. The Sonoclot activated clotting time in the < 12-mo and the Adult groups were shorter than the oldest group of children (P < 0.05), although all were within the anticipated normal range, and there were no significant differences in clot rate, peak amplitude, and time to peak amplitude among groups without apparent trends with increasing age. These Sonoclot variables quantify adequate global clot formation in pediatric patients and will facilitate clinical coagulation management with appropriate pediatric normal ranges, avoiding the application of extrapolated adult data to children. IMPLICATIONS Sonoclot variables are presented for 95 healthy pediatric surgical patients in four age groups, with small differences found in the Sonoclot (Sienco, Inc., Morrison, CO) activated clotting time between two groups and no significant differences in three other variables among groups.
Absolute Returns: The Risk and Opportunities of Hedge Fund Investing

In this section, the recently published book Absolute Returns: The Risk and Opportunities of Hedge Fund Investing is reviewed.
Sb-heterostructure Millimeter-Wave Detectors with Improved Noise Performance

Detailed characterization of the low-frequency noise performance of mm-wave Sb- heterostructure detectors and the implications for devices and systems are reported. The low-frequency noise as a function of temperature and bias was characterized. While the detectors exhibit only thermal noise at zero bias, the application of either external DC bias or the generation of a self-bias from incident RF power induces low-frequency noise. The low-frequency noise spectrum was measured as a function of applied bias.
The synthesis, configuration, and conformation of cis- and trans-3-amino-3,4-dihydro-1-hydroxy-4-methylcarbostyrils and other configurationally related compounds

The cis- and trans-3-amino-3,4-dihydro-1-hydroxy-4-methylcarbostyrils (Ia and Ib) were synthesized by catalytic hydrogenation of erythro- and threo-α-amino-β-(o-nitrophenyl)butyric acid hydrochlorides, IIIa and IIIb, respectively, under acidic conditions. The free bases of IIIa and IIIb were catalytically hydrogenated under neutral conditions to yield the erythro- and threo-α-amino-β-(o-aminophenyl)butyric acids (VIa and VIb), which were converted by acidification to their corresponding lactams, cis- and trans-3-amino-3,4-dihydro-4-methylcarbostyrils, IIa and IIb. The erythro and threo isomers of α-amino-β-(o-nitrophenyl)-butyric acid were prepared and separated by liquid chromatography via a diastereomeric mixture of (V) of methyl α-acetamido-β-(o-nitrophenyl)butyrates. The configurations and conformational assignments of the cyclic hydroxamic acids Ia and Ib were first established by analysis of the proton nmr spectra. In turn, the configurations of the o-nitroaromatic amino acids IIIa and IIIb were assigned as well as the other structurally related compounds (VIa, VIb, IIa and IIb) derived therefrom.
Hair Follicle Epithelial Stem Cells Get Their Sox On

Sox family transcription factors have emerged as key regulators of multiple developmental processes, including fate determination and differentiation in multiple tissues. In this issue of Cell Stem Cell, Nowak et al. (2008) implicate Sox9 in the specification of early hair follicle stem cells and subsequent epithelial lineages.
Diapirism of depleted peridotite — a model for the origin of hot spots☆

Abstract A model is proposed for the origin of hot spots that depends on the existence of major-element heterogeneities in the mantle. Generation of basaltic crust at spreading centers produces a layer of residual peridotite ∼20–25 km thick directly beneath the crust which is depleted in Fe/Mg, TiO 2 , CaO, Al 2 O 3 , Na 2 O and K 2 O, and which has a slightly lower density than undepleted peridotite beneath it. Upon recycling of this depleted peridotite back into the deep mantle at subduction zones, it becomes gravitationally unstable, and tends to rise as diapirs through undepleted peridotite. For a density contrast of 0.05 g cm −3 , a diapir 60 km in diameter would rise at roughly 8 cm y −1 , and could transport enough heat to the base of the lithosphere to cause melting and volcanism at the surface. Hot spots are thus viewed as a passive consequence of mantle convection and fractionation at spreading centers rather than a plate-driving force. It is suggested that depleted diapirs exist with varying amounts of depletion, diameters, upward velocities and source volumes. Such variations could explain the occurrence of hot spots with widely varying lifetimes and rates of lava production. For highly depleted diapirs with very low Fe/Mg, the diapir would act as a heat source and the asthenosphere and lower lithosphere drifting across the diapir would serve as the source region of magmas erupted at the surface. For mildly depleted diapirs with Fe/Mg only slightly less than in normal undepleted mantle, the diapir could provide not only the source of heat but also most or all of the source material for the erupted magmas. The model is consistent with isotopic data that require two separate and ancient source regions for mid-ocean ridge and oceanic island basalts. The source for mid-ocean ridge basalts is considered to be material upwelling at spreading centers from the deep mantle. This material forms the oceanic lithosphere. Oceanic island basalts are considered to be derived from varying mixtures of sublithospheric and lower lithospheric material and the rising diapir itself.
Malignant hemangioendothelioma of the uterus

Abstract In the entire world literature, there are only seven reported cases of malignant hemangioendothelioma arising in the uterus. An eighth case, reported here, was a 17-year-old girl who lived for 8 years after curettings and subsequent hysterectomy revealed malignant hemangioendothelioma of the endometrium with extension to the left ovary. Pelvic recurrences were temporarily controlled with chemotherapy, X-ray treatment, and repeated surgery. However, the patient eventually succumbed to massive growth of malignant hemangioendothelioma in the pelvis, with extension into the inferior vena cava and left external iliac vein. Growth within blood vessel lumens was also striking in the surgical specimens of recurrent tumor. Microscopically, the important diagnostic feature was the presence of numerous capillaries lined by malignant endothelial cells.
The Mount Pisgah (U.S.) Stone Carvings

THE number of NATURE dated June 15 (p. 160) contains some statements relating to the curious stone carvings discovered by Mr. M. S. Valentine in the neighbourhood of Mount Pisgah, North Carolina, and now exhibited by him in Europe. Before leaving the United States, Mr. Valentine brought his specimens to Washington, in order to have them examined by Prof. Baird, the Director of the United States National Museum, and by myself. I am therefore enabled to express an opinion concerning them. Having been for many years in charge of the largest existing collection of North American antiquities, I can safely assert that they are totally abnormal in character, that is, unlike any pre-Columbian stone carvings thus far found in the United States. They neither show the characteristics of the stone sculptures discovered in mounds, nor do they resemble the well known specimens of modern Indian art. In short, they are not typical at all, unless, indeed, we deem them sufficiently, important to form a type for themselves. Such an importance, however, I cannot concede to them, believing that they originated in comparatively modern, certainly in post-Columbian, times, and were made by a few individuals of the Indian, or, perhaps, even of the Caucasian, race. The rude attempts at imitating animals of the Old World are conclusive evidences that the makers either had seen such animals, or knew at least that they existed.
Broad spectral domain fluorescence wavelength modulation of visible and near-infrared emissive polymersomes.

Incorporation of an extended family of multi[(porphinato)zinc(II)] (PZn)-based supermolecular fluorophores into the lamellar membranes of polymersomes (50 nm to 50 μm diameter polymer vesicles) gives rise to electrooptically diverse nano-to-micron (meso) scale soft materials. Studies that examine homogeneous suspensions of 100 nm diameter emissive polymersomes demonstrate fluorescence energy modulation over a broad spectral domain of the visible and near-infrared (600−900 nm). These polymersomal structures highlight that the nature of intermembranous polymer-to-fluorophore contacts depends on the position and identity of the porphyrins' phenyl ring substituents. Emissive polymersomes are shown to possess reduced spectral heterogeneity with respect to the established optical signatures of these PZn-based supermolecular fluorophores in solution; additionally, selection of fluorophore ancillary substituents predictably controls the nature of polymer−emitter noncovalent interactions to provide an important ad...
A model system for pathogen detection using a two-component bacteriophage/bioluminescent signal amplification assay

Microbial contamination has become a mounting concern the last decade due to an increased emphasis of minimally processed food products specifically produce, and the recognition of foodborne pathogens such as Campylobacter jejuni, Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Listeria monocytogenes. This research investigates a detection approach utilizing bacteriophage pathogen specificity coupled with a bacterial bioluminescent bioreporter utilizing the quorum sensing molecule from Vibrio fischeri, N-(3-oxohexanoyl)-homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C6-HSL). The 3-oxo-C6-HSL molecules diffuse out of the target cell after infection and induce bioluminescence from a population of 3-oxo-C6-HSL bioreporters (ROLux). E. coli phage M13, a well-characterized bacteriophage, offers a model system testing the use of bacteriophage for pathogen detection through cell-to-cell communication via a LuxR/3-oxo-C6-HSL system. Simulated temperate phage assays tested functionality of the ROLux reporter and production of 3-oxo-C6-HSL by various test strains. These assays showed detection limits of 10 2 cfu after 24 hours in a varietry of detection formats. Assays incorporating the bacteriophage M13-luxI with the ROLux reporter and a known population of target cells were subsequently developed and have shown consistent detection limits of 10 5 cfu target organisms. Measurable light response from high concentrations of target cells was almost immediate, suggesting an enrichment step to further improve detection limits and reduce assay time.
Using virtual reality for the simulation of infrared environments for human training

The paper describes a method to dynamically simulate heat transfer and the generation of infrared images, all in real time. Although there do exist models that produce infrared images of environments these models are generally static and only show one view at one moment in time, usually the time at temperature equilibrium. The model presented moment in time. Instead, a user is emersed within a virtual environment, through the use of a head mounted display, and is presented with a dynamically changing scene that reflects the changing temperatures of the objects as they seek equilibrium within their environment. The view point is also dynamic allowing the user to move around the scene, and to interact and change certain elements. In this way the user is free to turn on or off lights, motors, and other heat sources and observe the effects that this will have on the other objects in the environment, all of this in real time.
Endogenous Jmjd6 gene product is expressed at the cell surface and regulates phagocytosis in immature monocyte-like activated THP-1 cells.

A jumonji domain containing gene 6 (Jmjd6), previously referred to as phosphatidylserine receptor (PSR) gene, plays an important role in cell differentiation and development of multiple organs, although mechanisms of its action are not known. The Jmjd6 gene product was initially identified as a membrane protein that participates in phagocytosis. However, the later findings that recombinant Jmjd6 in expression systems was targeted to the nucleus challenged the role of Jmjd6 as a membrane receptor. Using immunocytochemistry approach we studied the subcellular distribution of endogenous Jmjd6 protein in THP-1 cells activated with phorbol 12-myristate 13 acetate (PMA). We found that treatment with PMA stimulated Jmjd6 expression in the cytosol of activated cells. Furthermore, Jmjd6 initially appeared at the cell surface of immature phagocytes (1–2 days after activation) but then translocated into the nucleus of differentiated macrophage-like cells (5–9 days after activation). Anti-Jmjd6 antibodies suppressed the engulfment of dead cell corpses by THP-1 cells expressing the Jmjd6 at the cell surface. These data indicate that Jmjd6 serves as a membrane-associated receptor that regulates phagocytosis in immature macrophages but is dispensable for phagocytosis and has other functions when it is expressed in the cytosol and nucleus of mature macrophage-like cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 221: 84–91, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc
RECTANGULAR BOUNDING VOLUMES FOR POPULAR PRIMITIVES

Publisher Summary This chapter provides derivations and source code for the generation of minimal bounding volumes for a cube, a group of polygons, a sphere, a cylinder, a cone, and a torus. The methods described in the chapter suggest that each object in an environment is created by applying a cumulative transformation matrix (CTM) to a canonical primitive object. To calculate the bounding volumes, components of the primitive object are transformed using a CTM. Extrema of the transformed components are then calculated. Those extrema are used to determine the extents of the bounding volume. The bounding volume for a cube is easily calculated by transforming each corner of the cube and performing simple min/max tests. Collections of polygons can be bounded in a manner similar to that for cubes. By transforming the circles at both ends of a cylinder and finding the extrema of those circles, a tight bounding volume can be determined. The bounding volume of a cone is calculated using the circle component formed by its base and the point component formed by its apex. A bounding volume can be generated for a spheroid by finding the extrema of the surface in world coordinates.
Identification of MICA as a new polymorphic alloantigen recognized by antibodies in sera of organ transplant recipients.

Abstract MHC class I-related chain A (MICA) is an HLA-related, polymorphic gene the product of which may be recognized by a subpopulation of intestinal γδ T cells and may play a role in the activation of a subpopulation of natural killer cells. Using anti-MICA specific rabbit sera we previously demonstrated that freshly isolated monocytes, keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells express MICA. To analyze whether MICA may be a target for specific antibodies in sera of transplanted patients, we produced three recombinant MICA proteins consisting of the α1, α2, and α3 domains, and used them in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We found that several patients had specific antibodies against MICA. Most of them were detected in serum samples collected at different times after organ rejection. Although this finding raises the question of how these patients became immunized, the fact that the polymorphic, HLA-like MICA molecule, expressed at the cell surface of endothelial cells, is recognized by specific antibodies in sera of transplanted patients, suggests the MICA may be a target molecule in allograft rejection.
Study of convergence rates of numerical methods for stochastic control problems

This work is concerned with convergence rates of numerical methods for stochastic control problems with a stopping time. We use Markov chain approximation techniques. Although the convergence rates may be studied by considering the convergence rates of finite difference schemes for Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman (HJB) equations, in the current problem, there is an additional difficulty due to the boundary condition, which requires the continuity of the first exit time with respect to the discrete parameter. To prove the convergence of the algorithm by Markov chain approximation method, there might be a problem known as tangency problem. Convergence rate is achieved by boundary perturbation under certain assumption. Convergence rates of Markov chain approximation for certain controlled diffusion problems are verified.
Development of a hammerhead ribozyme against bcl-2. I. Preliminary evaluation of a potential gene therapeutic agent for hormone-refractory human prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND The bcl-2 oncoprotein suppresses apoptosis and, when overexpressed in prostate cancer cells, makes these cells resistant to a variety of therapeutic agents, including hormonal ablation. Therefore, bcl-2 provides a strategic target for the development of gene knockout therapies to treat human prostate cancers. Towards this end, we have synthesized an anti-bcl-2 gene therapeutic reagent based on ribozyme technology and have tested its effectiveness against bcl-2 mRNA in vitro and in vivo. METHODS A divalent hammerhead ribozyme was constructed by recombining two catalytic RNA domains into an antisense segment of the coding region for human bcl-2 mRNA. A disabled ribozyme lacking catalytic activity was also constructed as a control reagent for our experiments. The ribozymes were tested for endonucleolytic activity against synthetic and natural bcl-2 mRNAs. Simple transfection procedures were then utilized to introduce the ribozymes into cultured prostate cancer cells (LNCaP derivatives). We measured the effects of the ribozymes on endogenous expression of bcl-2 mRNA and protein in these cells as well as their ability to induce apoptosis. RESULTS The functional but not the disabled ribozyme was able to rapidly degrade bcl-2 mRNA in vitro, without the requirement for any other cellular protein or factor. When directly transfected into LNCaP cell variants, it significantly reduced bcl-2 mRNA and protein levels within 18 hr of treatment. This activity was sufficient to induce apoptosis in a low-bcl-2-expressing variant of LNCaP, but not in a high-bcl-2-expressing LNCaP line. For the high-bcl-2-expressing variant, however, it did restore the ability to genetically respond to a secondary apoptotic agent, phorbol ester, as evidenced by the renewed ability of phorbol ester to induce NGF1A mRNA in these cells. CONCLUSIONS This study supports the potential utility of an anti-bcl-2 ribozyme reagent for reducing or eliminating bcl-2 expression from hormone-refractory prostate cancer cells and for killing prostate cancer cells. As such, it is the first step toward an effective gene therapy against hormone-refractory human prostate cancers. Prostate 32:246–258, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The Bcl-2 antagonist HA14-1 forms a fluorescent albumin complex that can be mistaken for several oxidized ROS probes.

The proapoptotic effects of the Bcl-2 antagonist HA14-1 are believed to derive from its affinity for the hydrophobic groove on Bcl-2 and Bcl-x L , thereby displacing proapoptotic factors, e.g. Bax and Bak. We have reported that HA14-1 promotes the efficacy of low-dose photodynamic therapy (PDT). A recent report proposed that the proapoptotic activity of HA14-1 reflects its ability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) when incubated in an aqueous environment. This later study, like several other HA14-1 investigations, relied on the use of fluorescent probes for ROS detection. We found that HA14-1 reacts with the albumin in serum to yield a fluorescent product. After correcting for this effect, the putative formation of ROS by HA14-1 could not be demonstrated with the fluorescent probes H 2 DCFDA, dihydroethidium or dihydrorhodamine. Indeed, the fluorescence excitation/emission spectra of HA14-1 encompassed the excitation/emission wavelengths used to detect these ROS probes. Cells cultured in a medium supplemented with ovalbumin, instead of serum, underwent apoptosis following HA14-1 addition, but did not exhibit fluorescence. Hence, HA14-1 fluorescence was unrelated to its proapoptotic activity. We conclude that the enhancement of PDT by HA14-1 reflects a pharmacologic effect, rather than its direct contribution of ROS.
Reversible Switching between Molecular and Charge Transfer Phases in a Liquid Crystalline Organic Semiconductor

We report the first experimental example, to our knowledge, of reversible switching between a molecular and a charge transfer phase in an organic semiconductor. An oriented film of liquid crystal perylene diimide molecules reversibly switches between a red phase with narrow conduction and valence bands and a large bandwidth black phase as the π-stacked chromophores shift just 1.6 A relative to their neighbors. This shift causes a substantial change in the intermolecular electronic overlap between molecules. The polarization of maximum absorbance rotates ∼90°, from an apparently molecule centered transition to an intermolecular charge transfer (CT) transition polarized along the π−π stacking axis. The experimental results are further explored via density functional theory calculations on a dimer model that demonstrate the variations in energy and oscillator strength of the molecular (Frenkel) and CT transitions as the longitudinal molecular offset is varied. These results demonstrate the exquisite sensitiv...
Gambling and the Law(®): Endless fields of dreams.

This article examines the current trends of proliferation of commercial gaming, especially in the United States, in the context of the “third wave” of legalization of gambling that has been experienced since the founding of the nation. The author looks at the historic foundations of the spread of casino-style gambling, and notes the types of casino gaming that have led the way in the current expansion. He also points out why it is reasonable to expect that this wave too may come crashing down, as general acceptance of wide-spread casino gaming in America may indeed be short-lived.
Combined Epicardial and Endocardial Electroanatomic Mapping in a Porcine Model of Healed Myocardial Infarction

Background— Substrate mapping of post–myocardial infarction ventricular tachycardia involves electroanatomic delineation of scarred tissue on the basis of electrogram characteristics during sinus rhythm. A percutaneous transthoracic technique was recently described that allows catheter mapping of the epicardial surface of the heart. This study sought to determine whether the epicardial extent of a myocardial infarct could be defined during sinus rhythm. Methods and Results— In a porcine model of healed anterior wall myocardial infarction (n=13 animals), detailed in vivo left ventricular endocardial and ventricular epicardial electroanatomic mapping was performed. Catheter access to the pericardial space was achieved by subxyphoid puncture under fluoroscopic guidance. Bipolar electrogram amplitude and duration characteristics of normal tissue were established on the basis of in vivo epicardial mapping data in 8 additional normal animals. With the use of these criteria, radiofrequency lesions (4 to 11 per a...
Trade Policy and the Southern Economy NAFTA in Historical Perspective

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) is part of a 50-year process of trade liberalization in the United States. From the end of the Civil War through World War II, however, average tariff rates were high by historical standards. The article explores the impact of “free trade” on regional economic performance—specifically, the pace of economic convergence between the American South and the rest of the United States. Econometric analysis suggests that trade liberalization speeded up convergence. Based on the authors' results, it is predicted that, on average, the South will benefit from NAFTA, although there may be some adverse distributional consequences.
Phylogeography of Batrachospermum Helminthosum (Rhodophyta) in North America

The freshwater red alga, Batrachospermum helminthosum, is distributed primarily in streams of eastern North America. Although it is often an abundant and conspicuous component of the algal flora for many streams, little is known about the genetic relationship among populations throughout its range. The purpose of our study was to elucidate geographic patterns among populations to gain insight into the biogeographic distribution of this species and possible modes of dispersal. Individuals were sampled in 13 stream segments as follows: four locations in Ohio, two locations in Michigan and one location each in Indiana, North Carolina, Tennessee, Louisiana, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. The mitochondrial spacer region (371 bp) between the COX2 and COX3 genes was chosen because it is variable among individuals. This region was sequenced for 15 individuals from each location. Thirteen haplotypes were identified among the 13 locations with most locations having one or two haplotypes. Two of the haplotypes were dominant being recorded from six of the streams. The Indiana, Louisiana and first Michigan population had a unique haplotype. The second Michigan and fourth Ohio populations shared a unique haplotype. The Tennessee population had four haplotypes, three of which were closely related but the fourth haplotype was not and linked to the haplotypes from Michigan and Ohio. The relationships among these populations are very complex but there may have been a recent dispersal event via birds among various streams.
Variation in the ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer of a diverse collection of ectomycorrhizal fungi

Amplification of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of ribosomal RNA genes using PCR and subsequent RFLP analysis offers promise for improved species-level identification of ectomycorrhizal fungi. Intrageneric homogeneity and intraspecific heterogeneity of these characters are, however, frequent. A diverse group of ectomycorrhizal fungi with worldwide distribution was characterized by ITS-RFLP analysis. DNA of 64 identified and five unknown ectomycorrhizal fungi was extracted and their ITS regions were selectively amplified with ITS1-F and ITS4 ribosomal RNA gene primers. Each PCR product was digested with seven restriction enzymes. The resulting restriction fragments were compared by distance matrix analysis. Restriction enzyme analysis of amplified fragments was sufficient for distinguishing all but two closely related species. Intraspecific variation was observed in Cenococcum geophilum and Pisolithus arhizus, providing further evidence that these taxa represent species complexes.
Diastereoselective ring-rearrangement metathesis to set the stereochemistry of all-carbon quaternary centres

A highly diastereoselective ring-rearrangement metathesis of cyclopentene derivatives containing all-carbon quaternary centres is reported. This tandem metathesis process provides cyclohexene derivatives with two contiguous stereogenic centres, one of which is an all-carbon quaternary stereogenic centre, in high yields and excellent diastereoselecitivity. The efficacy of this methodology is showcased in the total synthesis of spiropiperidine alkaloid nitramine. In the meantime, it has been found that metathesis of the corresponding acyclic triene derivatives affords the same products with the same level of efficiency and diastereoselectivity.
BIBLIOGRAPHY OF TRUMAN G. YUNCKER

A list of publications by Truman G. Yuncker covering a period of almost 60 years is presented.
Effect of selenium fertilization on the concentration of selenium, other minerals, and ascorbic acid in potatoes

The effect of selenium fertilization on the concentration of selenium, other minerals, and ascorbic acid of Katahdin potato tubers was studied during each of two years. Sodium selenite was banded to the soil at rates of 5.6 (2.5), 11.2 (5.0) and 16.2 (7.5) kg/ha (ppm of soil). The tuber selenium concentration was increased significantly (p<0.01) from 0.47 ppm to 0.93 ppm fresh weight. However, selenium levels in the soil greater than 5.0 ppm did not result in further increases in the selenium concentration of tubers. No significant effects due to selenium fertilization were observed for the concentration of other minerals and ascorbic acid. Similar trends were observed during both years of the study. In areas where the soil is low in selenium, addition of this element could prove useful in increasing the selenium content of potatoes, a very important vegetable in the American diet.
Evaluation of circuit styles and VLSI logic designs of pentacene OTFTs

Organic electronics have immense potential over a wide spectrum of applications. In the present scenario, an abundance of investigations are being followed on the transistor operation and its characterization. However, circuit level research focus is not that common. Therefore, we sensed the urgency to provide a complete assessment of the different circuit styles, which are, the diode-load, zero-V gs , pseudo-E and pseudo-D, in ratioless and ratioed logic. A comparative evaluation of the collective circuit behavior of each design style is critical. The major parameters, such as, power consumption, noise margin of high and low level signal, circuit speed, on current and output voltage swing were measured and thereupon, analyzed to decide upon the optimum circuit style for cascading. The inverter, NAND and NOR logic gates, and a 5-inverter ring oscillator were further analyzed, using the pentacene OTFT model file, to realize the best architecture for integration in large scale circuits. Based on our evaluations, the lowest power consumption was in case of the zero-V gs and pseudo-D design style, along with, a fast circuit operation speed. The pseudo-D circuit configuration, not only provides the maximum V out swing, but it has the best performance.
Summer Bridge Program 2.0: Using social media to develop students' campus capital

In his 2014 State of the Union Address, President Obama identified the need to make “concrete commitments to reduce inequality in access to higher education” by helping “every hardworking kid go to...
Close-space sublimation grown CdS window layers for CdS/CdTe thin-film solar cells

We report on the synthesis and characterization of CdS window layers grown by close-space sublimation (CSS) method for CdS/CdTe thin-film solar cells. Comparing with CdS window layers grown by other methods such as sputtering and chemical bath deposition, CSS-grown CdS layers can facilitate the consumption of CdS layers and suppress the diffusion of Te into CdS window layers. CSS-grown CdS layers exhibit much larger grains with faceted morphology. Due to large grains, CSS CdS layers must be grown thick enough to minimize the effects of pin-holes. The use of thicker CdS layer causes reduced blue response, resulting in current loss. Therefore, the thickness of CSS CdS window layer must be carefully optimized to achieve high efficiency. Our best small area dot cell using a CSS CdS window layer has exhibited a cell efficiency of about 14.2 % with an open circuit voltage (VOC) of 806 mV, a short circuit current (JSC) of 25.2 mA/cm2, and a fill factor (FF) of 69.8 % under AM1.5 illumination and without an antireflection coating, slightly lower than our best reference cell using a sputtered CdS window layer (VOC = 845 mV, JSC = 24.5 mA/cm2, FF = 76.8 %, and efficiency = 15.8 %).
Maximal Selection in Tandem Networks with Symmetric Hearing Range

We consider an infinite tandem network in which every node is capable of hearing its neighbors up to a given distance n. At any moment of time every node may contain in the top of its buffer a mes-sage destined to one of its neighbors. For small and large n, we investigate the maximal selection of nodes in the network, for which their transmissions are collision-free. For a large hearing range we show that the upper bound on the maximal selection, which is found herein, is asymptotically achievable. For a small hearing range we show that a greedy selection, which can be used as a lower bound is quite close to an upper bound. We also specify a sequence of upper bounds which converge to the maximal throughput.
Editorial comment on: Laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy: a multicenter analysis in Japan.

Upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma is a disease that often is associated with a high propensity for recurrence and progression. Surgical treatment consists of complete removal of the kidney, the ureter in toto, and the ipsilateral bladder cuff including the ureteral orifice. When performed with an open approach, this operation requires either two incisions or an extended flank incision. The integration of the laparoscopic approach has been successful at reducing postoperative convalescence and improving recovery while maintaining the oncologic outcome [1]. The featured study by Kamihira et al represents a large experience with laparoscopic nephroureterectomy for upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma from 51 centers in Japan [2]. Such a study, commissioned by the Japanese Society of Endourology and ESWL, is bound to provide a wealth of information and to raise a number of questions. This study establishes that laparoscopic nephroureterectomy can be performed safely with low morbidity and a low complication profile. Most important, it reflects the heterogeneity of surgical practice patterns and brings forth the debate about the following technical issues: (1) the role of lymphadenectomy in the treatment of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma and (2) the inability to dissociate total removal of the distal ureter including the ipsilateral ureteral orifice from radical nephroureterectomy. First, the present study [2] and another equally large multicenter study using mainly an open approach [3] report concomitant lymphadenectomy at the time of nephroureterectomy in 43–45% of cases. The indications and the anatomic template explored were at the discretion of the surgeon and, given the retrospective nature of the methodology, will be difficult to analyze. For a disease that shares so much background with urothelial carcinoma of the bladder, one wonders whether it is sound to extrapolate from the evidence supporting the role of a thorough lymphadenectomy in improving survival in bladder cancer until the evidence for upper urinary tract urothelial cancer materializes [4]. Second, total removal of the distal ureter including the ipsilateral ureteral orifice is undissociable from the radical nephroureterectomy. The fact that the present study by Kamihira et al [2] did not find an association between the different modalities of managing the distal ureter does not, by itself, validate an incomplete ureteral resection. Finally, the higher rate of postoperative de novo bladder tumors after hand-assisted laparoscopic nephroureterectomy is an interesting point, bringing to the debate the hypothesis of tumor manipulation.
Charge localization—I The ion kinetic energy spectra of ortho‐, meta‐ and para‐phenylenediamine

The ion kinetic energy spectra of o-,m-and p-phenylendiamine are presented. Decompositions of doubly-charged ions are given for the three isomers. From the width of the peaks, the energy released is measured and the equivalent intercharge distance is calculated. The results are discussed in terms of possible structures of the various ions. Also, metastable transitions which could give rise to peaks corresponding to energies below that of the mainion beam are listed and the results discussed. Significant differences were observed among the energy spectra of the three isomers.
Polystyrene Spherules in Coastal Waters

Polystyrene spherules averaging 0.5 millimeter in diameter (range 0.1 to 2 millimeters) are abundant in the coastal waters of southern New England. Two types are present, a crystalline (clear) form and a white, opaque form with pigmentation resulting from a diene rubber. The spherules have bacteria on their surfaces and contain polychlorinated biphenyls, apparently absorbed from ambient seawater, in a concentration of 5 parts per million. White, opaque spherules are selectively consumed by 8 species of fish out of 14 species examined, and a chaetognath. Ingestion of the plastic may lead to intestinal blockage in smaller fish.
Control of a Heat-Integrated Pressure-Swing Distillation Process for the Separation of a Maximum-Boiling Azeotrope

Methanol and trimethoxysilane form a maximum-boiling homogeneous azeotrope whose composition changes fairly significantly with pressure, so separation into high-purity products is viable using pressure-swing distillation. Heat integration of the two columns can be used to reduce energy costs since they operate at different temperatures. The pressure in the high-pressure column is not controlled but “floats” depending on conditions in the base of the low-pressure column. An auxiliary reboiler is required to balance the heat duty in the low-pressure column. Since pressure affects the composition of the azeotropic, this variable pressure increases the complexity of the required control structure. The purpose of this paper is to develop a control scheme that can effectively handle large disturbances in feed flow rate and feed composition.
Modulation of tolerogenic dendritic cells and autoimmunity

A key function of dendritic cells (DCs) is to induce either immune tolerance or immune activation. Many new DC subsets are being recognized, and it is now clear that each DC subset has a specialized function. For example, different DC subsets may express different cell surface molecules and respond differently to activation by secretion of a unique cytokine profile. Apart from intrinsic differences among DC subsets, various immune modulators in the microenvironment may influence DC function; inappropriate DC function is closely related to the development of immune disorders. The most exciting recent advance in DC biology is appreciation of human DC subsets. In this review, we discuss functionally different mouse and human DC subsets both in lymphoid organs and non-lymphoid organs, the molecules that regulate DC function, and the emerging understanding of the contribution of DCs to autoimmune diseases.
Dynamic effects of protection on productivity

Abstract In this paper we first show how the positive or negative effects of protection on modernization of the capital stock and hence on average labor productivity depend on the technological characteristics of the protected sector. We then introduce learning by doing and show that even when protection lengthens the economic life of capital, there is a dynamic trade-off between its initial productivity-depressing effect and the tariff-induced learning effect, and that after a determinable date the latter effect predominates on the time-path of productivity.
Variable Window Scan Statistics for Normal Data

In this article, approximations and inequalities for the distribution of a two dimensional scan statistic are derived for independently and identically distributed observations from a continuous distribution. The accuracy of these approximations and inequalities is investigated for a normal model. The cases of mean and variance being known and unknown are discussed. Based on approximations for the distributions of one and two dimensional fixed window scan statistics, variable window scan statistics are introduced. We investigate the performance of these variable window scan statistics as test statistics for detection of a local change in the mean of a normal distribution. By utilizing R algorithms for the multivariate normal and distributions established by Genz and Bretz (2009), numerical results are presented to evaluate the efficiency of implementing the variable window scan statistics and compare their performance, via power calculations, with fixed window scan statistics. It is evident from the numer...