cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinical Pharmacology Review of Plasma-derived and Recombinant Protein Products: CBER Experience and Perspectives on Model-Informed Drug Development.

Introduction Clinical pharmacology studies are one of the major types of regulatory data submitted for review of therapeutic proteins regulated by the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER). Aim The primary objective of the current study is to provide an overview of the role of clinical pharmacology including pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD) and exposure-response analysis at CBER. Furthermore, we aim to provide a baseline estimate for the use of quantitative clinical pharmacology studies prior to implementation of FDA's model-informed drug development (MIDD) pilot programme. Methods We survey original Biologics License Applications (BLAs) for plasma-derived and related recombinant therapeutic protein products approved by CBER/FDA (2008-2017). Results There were 37 original BLAs that met our inclusion criteria, and 34 of these products (92%) contained human PK data as part of the biological licensing. The products were broadly classified as coagulation factors (54%), IgG and related proteins (24%), and other therapeutic proteins (22%). Coagulation factor VIII and IX products constitute 32% of the BLAs and indicated for treatment of haemophilia A and B, respectively. Twelve products (35%) used model-based approaches (population PK/PD and exposure-response). Over the past 5 years (2013 to 2017), there is a trend for increased application of MIDD approaches as compared to the previous cohort years (2008 to 2012). Conclusion In conclusion, clinical pharmacology has played a major role in regulatory review of plasma-derived products, and we expect that the application of quantitative methods will further evolve for these products under the FDA MIDD programme.
Bayesian Inference for Acoustic Direction of Arrival Analysis Using Spherical Harmonics

This work applies two levels of inference within a Bayesian framework to accomplish estimation of the directions of arrivals (DoAs) of sound sources. The sensing modality is a spherical microphone array based on spherical harmonics beamforming. When estimating the DoA, the acoustic signals may potentially contain one or multiple simultaneous sources. Using two levels of Bayesian inference, this work begins by estimating the correct number of sources via the higher level of inference, Bayesian model selection. It is followed by estimating the directional information of each source via the lower level of inference, Bayesian parameter estimation. This work formulates signal models using spherical harmonic beamforming that encodes the prior information on the sensor arrays in the form of analytical models with an unknown number of sound sources, and their locations. Available information on differences between the model and the sound signals as well as prior information on directions of arrivals are incorporated based on the principle of the maximum entropy. Two and three simultaneous sound sources have been experimentally tested without prior information on the number of sources. Bayesian inference provides unambiguous estimation on correct numbers of sources followed by the DoA estimations for each individual sound sources. This paper presents the Bayesian formulation, and analysis results to demonstrate the potential usefulness of the model-based Bayesian inference for complex acoustic environments with potentially multiple simultaneous sources.
Interplay between pore connectivity and permeability in shale sample

Abstract Shale formations demonstrate distinct characteristics, such as a wide spectrum of pore size from micro-scale to nano-scale, limited pore connectivity and ultra-low permeability. Despite extensive research work over recent years to characterize flow properties of shale samples, the interplay between pore connectivity and permeability still remains to be understood. In this study, numerical methods were used in tandem with experimental data to characterize and evaluate pore connectivity of shale samples. To evaluate permeability and pore connectivity in the shale matrix, three-dimensional (3D) pore structure constructed by stacking scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of an Eagle Ford sample is used. First, static petrophysical properties of the shale sample such as total and the connected porosity, pore size distribution and geometric tortuosity are calculated and evaluated. Next, pore connectivity is assessed using Euler-Poincare Characteristics (EPC) method. Finally, fluid flow through the sample is simulated using Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) to predict single-phase permeability of the whole system. Results indicate that total porosity of the studied Eagle Ford shale sample is around 12.5% and slightly decreases as the thickness of the digital sample increases. On the other hand, the connected porosity of the sample decreases resulting in a 50% reduction when the sample thickness increases from 1 μm to 6 μm. Moreover, the calculated permeability is 17.6 md and 1.17 μd for the sample thickness of 1 μm and 6 μm, respectively; i.e. 15,000 times reduction is observed when the digital sample thickness increases. Consistent with the permeability results, the pore connectivity determined through EPC method is strongly (and inversely) correlated with the sample thickness and 80% reduction of the pore connectivity is realized when the sample thickness is increased from 1 μm to 6 μm. The results from this study will provide new insights into how pore structure characteristics scale up and help improve the better estimation of permeability in shale formations. In addition, the outcome of this work has some important implications to fluid flow research studies in shale formations.
Large Left Atrial Thrombus on Amplatzer Septal Occluder Secondary to Medication Nonadherence.

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common clinical entity that is encountered in 20-34% of the general population. In most individuals, this anatomical variation is asymptomatic and goes undetected throughout their lives or is only incidentally discovered on cardiac investigations. In situations when the conduit is large enough and when the right atrial pressure exceeds the left atrial pressure, right to left interatrial flow may occur in these individuals. This creates a channel for translocation of air or thrombi from the venous to the arterial circulation, a phenomenon known as paradoxical embolism. Approximately 25-40% of strokes and transient ischemic attacks in patients less than 60 years of age are classified as cryptogenic and studies have identified a higher prevalence (60%) of PFO in young adults with strokes of unidentifiable etiology. Recent trials have demonstrated utility of PFO closure with mechanical devices for secondary prevention of recurrent strokes in patients aged <60 years of age. The general consensus of post-operative management of PFO closure has been largely drawn from randomized controlled trials and comprises use of aspirin and clopidogrel for 6 months followed by use of aspirin alone for at least 5 years. We present a case of an incidentally discovered left intra-atrial thrombus attached to a PFO closure device in a 36-year-old female with a history of cryptogenic stroke three months after implantation.
Effective neoantigen vaccination correlates with generation of antigen-specific CX3CR1+CD8+ T cells mediated by CD40 and CD80/86 signaling in cDC1s

Background The use of tumor mutation-derived neoantigen represents a promising approach for cancer vaccines. Preclinical and early-phase human clinical studies have shown the successful induction of tumor neoepitope-directed responses; however, overall clinical efficacy of neoantigen vaccines has been limited. One major limitation of this strategy is the lack of a reliable blood-based surrogate marker for clinical response. Here, we investigated a role of CX3C chemokine receptor 1 (CX3CR1), a marker of T-cell differentiation in predicting response to neoantigen vaccination in a preclinical model. Methods Mice bearing MC38 colon adenocarcinoma cells that harbor a single-epitope mutation within the Adpgk protein were treated with mutant Adpgk peptide (AdpgkMut) in combination with toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) agonist poly(I:C) and/or anti-CD40 antibody (Ab). Antitumor efficacy of neoantigen vaccination and the frequency of peripheral blood AdpgkMut-specific CX3CR1+CD8+ T cells were assessed. Mechanisms underlying the generation of CX3CR1+CD8+ T cells were examined using knockout and bone marrow chimeric mice. Results We found that CD40 stimulation significantly enhanced antitumor efficacy of neoantigen and TLR3 agonist vaccination, which was associated with an increased frequency of circulating AdpgkMut-specific effector CX3CR1+CD8+ T cells. Generation of neoantigen-specific CX3CR1+CD8+ T cells by AdpgkMut/CD40/TLR3 stimulation was dependent on CD40 and Batf3 in bone marrow-derived cells. Further mechanistic studies using mixed bone marrow chimeras identified key roles for CD40 and CD80/86, but not CD70 signaling in Batf3-dependent conventional type 1 dendritic cells (cDC1s) for generation of neoantigen-specific cytotoxic CX3CR1+CD8+ T cells and therapeutic efficacy of neoantigen vaccine. Conclusions Taken together, our results underscore critical roles of cDC1s and an implication of dual CD40/TLR3 stimulation in neoantigen-based therapeutic vaccines, and demonstrate the potential utility of CX3CR1 as a circulating predictive T-cell biomarker in vaccine clinical trials.
Intergenerational Economic Mobility and the Racial Wealth Gap

A growing body of research documents the importance of wealth and the racial wealth gap in perpetuating inequality across generations. We add to this literature by examining the impact of wealth on child income. Our two stage least squares regressions reveal that grandparental and parental wealth have an important effect on the younger generation’s stock (first stage results), which in turn affects the younger generation’s household income (second stage results). We further explore the relationship between income and wealth by decomposing the child’s income by race. We find that the intergroup disparity in income is mainly attributable to differences in family background. These findings indicate that wealth is an important source of income inequality.
The tales we tell: Bombay, Mumbai and I

This essay traces the evolution of the city now known as Mumbai – formerly Bombay – intertwined with the author’s life-experiences of being embedded in the city. Scholarly, literary, and journalist...
CO2 messes with rock physics

Abstract Seismic techniques are the main monitoring tools for CO2 storage projects, especially in saline aquifers with good porosity. The majority of existing commercial and pilot CO2 injections ha...
Artin groups of types F4 and H4 are not commensurable with that of type D4

Abstract In a recent article, Cumplido and Paris studied the question of commensurability between Artin groups of spherical type. Their analysis left six cases undecided, for the following pairs of Artin groups: ( F 4 , D 4 ) , ( H 4 , D 4 ) , ( F 4 , H 4 ) , ( E 6 , D 6 ) , ( E 7 , D 7 ) , and ( E 8 , D 8 ) . In this note we resolve the first two of these cases, namely, we show that the Artin groups of types F 4 and H 4 are not commensurable with that of type D 4 . As a key step, we realize the abstract commensurator of the Artin group of type D 4 as the extended mapping class group of the torus with three punctures. We also find the automorphism group of the Artin group of type D 4 and obtain a description of torsion elements, their orders and conjugacy classes in all irreducible Artin groups of spherical type modulo their centers.
Study protocol for the Exercising Together© trial: a randomized, controlled trial of partnered exercise for couples coping with cancer

Most cancer survivors are married, and cancer strains the physical and mental health of each partner and their intimate relationship. We created a partnered strength training program, Exercising Together©, where the survivor and his/her partner exercise as a team in order to improve physical and mental health of both members of the couple as well as the quality of their relationship. We have not yet determined if Exercising Together© is similarly effective in couples coping with different types of cancer nor if training as a team has unique and added benefits over those derived from supervised group training and/or shared behavior change. The purpose of this study is to determine the unique benefits of Exercising Together© on physical, mental, and relational health in couples coping with breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer. Survivors of prostate, breast and colorectal cancer (N = 294, 98 per cancer site) and their intimate, co-residing partners are recruited to participate in a single-blind, parallel group, randomized trial comparing three exercise groups that train twice per week for 6 months. Couples are randomized to one of three groups: (1) Exercising Together© where partners train as a team in a supervised group setting; (2) separate supervised group exercise classes for survivors or partners, respectively; (3) unsupervised home exercise program provided to each partner. The primary outcome is relationship quality (dyadic coping by the Dyadic Coping scale, emotional intimacy by the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, physical intimacy by the Physical Intimacy Behavior Scale, and symptom incongruence). Secondary outcomes are physical health (% body fat by DXA, serum fasting lipids (triglycerides, HDL, and LDL cholesterol), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), resting blood pressure, C-reactive protein, TNF alpha, and physical functioning by the short Physical Performance Battery and SF-36) and mental health (depressive symptoms, anxiety, fear of recurrence) of each partner. Outcomes are collected at baseline, mid (3 months), post-intervention (6 months), and follow-up (12 months). Exercising Together© could shift the paradigm of survivorship care toward novel couple-based approaches that could optimize outcomes for each partner because their health is interdependent on each other and their relationship. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03630354 . Registered August 14, 2018
Just Do It: An Antidote to the Poison Pill

The poison pill is the most powerful defense against hostile takeovers. It can render a company takeover-proof, or nearly so. Efforts at developing an antidote have focused largely on shareholder-adopted bylaws, but the legality of such proposals has been questioned by many. In any event, shareholder-adopted bylaws have not been very successful in eliminating poison pills thus far. In order to effect takeovers, hostile bidders cannot rely on the courts or the target company's shareholders; they can rely only on themselves. In this article, I propose a strategy for hostile bidders to counteract the poison pill and to consummate hostile takeovers without redemption of the poison pill rights. The proposed strategy involves a series of coordinated tender offers: an initial offer to trigger the poison pill rights, offering little or no consideration; and a subsequent offer in which the fully diluted value paid to all shareholders after the rights have been exercised. This antidote strategy allows the hostile bidder to respond to management's just say no defense with a just do it offense of triggering the poison pill without ingesting its economic poison. Moreover, it does not allow the hostile bidder to evade the legitimate, salutary effects of the poison pill. The antidote strategy merely seeks to restore to shareholders a right that should have been deemed inalienable: the right to sell their shares without management's consent.
Modeling of Octave-Spanning Sub-Two-Cycle Titanium:Sapphire Lasers: Simulation and Experiment

It is shown that a one-dimensional temporal laser model under optimized intracavity dispersion settings can quantitatively predict the spectral output and temporal pulse shape of octave-spanning, sub-two-cycle Ti:sapphire lasers.
Hybrid inflation revisited in light of WMAP5 data

We study the effects of including one-loop radiative corrections in a nonsupersymmetric hybrid inflationary model. These corrections can arise from Yukawa couplings between the inflaton and right-handed neutrinos, and induce a maximum in the potential which admits hilltop-type solutions in addition to the standard hybrid solutions. We obtain a red-tilted spectral index n{sub s}, consistent with Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe 5 yr analysis data, for sub-Planckian values of the field. This is in contrast to the tree level hybrid analysis, in which a red-tilted spectrum is achieved only for trans-Planckian values of the field. Successful reheating is obtained at the end of the inflationary phase via a conversion of the inflaton and waterfall fields into right-handed neutrinos, whose subsequent decay can explain the observed baryon asymmetry via leptogenesis.
Implications of recent improvements in conductivity models on liner, wire, and fuse design

Summary form only given. The pulse power community is conducting numerous Z-pinch experiments to explore critical issues in both hydrodynamics and magnetohydrodynamics. Adequately predicting the behavior of metals (i.e. copper, aluminum, tungsten, etc.) as intense current/fields are introduced is crucial for designing such experiments. Our simulations have used a variety of resistivity models including SESAME tables as well as analytic models. Most models to date were derived from approximate theory and adjusted to match available data. Results of our simulations have shown that the behavior of aluminum, for example, in the region from a 0.1 to 0.5 eV and densities from about 0.2 to 3.0 g/cc is not reproduced well and impacts our ability to accurately predict high performance liners, exploding wires, and fuses using our MHD simulation codes. Recent examination of improve conductivity models from Desjarlais at SNL suggests that the nature of conductivity in these low/intermediate temperatures and near normal densities may be a significant problem. This was demonstrated by calculations of high current (>30 MA) driven liner experiments which showed inaccuracies in the employed conductivity in this region can lead to 10-20 % discrepancies in predicting the liner velocity at impact. This inferred problem with conductivity models is endemic to all three of the discussed cases, since any solid/liquid surface heated ohmically into a plasma state must traverse this region in phase space. This paper will attempt to compare simulations of liners, wires and fuses using a variety of conductivity models against a limited set of actual experiments.
Geometric modeling of subcellular structures, organelles, and multiprotein complexes.

Recently, the structure, function, stability, and dynamics of subcellular structures, organelles, and multi-protein complexes have emerged as a leading interest in structural biology. Geometric modeling not only provides visualizations of shapes for large biomolecular complexes but also fills the gap between structural information and theoretical modeling, and enables the understanding of function, stability, and dynamics. This paper introduces a suite of computational tools for volumetric data processing, information extraction, surface mesh rendering, geometric measurement, and curvature estimation of biomolecular complexes. Particular emphasis is given to the modeling of cryo-electron microscopy data. Lagrangian-triangle meshes are employed for the surface presentation. On the basis of this representation, algorithms are developed for surface area and surface-enclosed volume calculation, and curvature estimation. Methods for volumetric meshing have also been presented. Because the technological development in computer science and mathematics has led to multiple choices at each stage of the geometric modeling, we discuss the rationales in the design and selection of various algorithms. Analytical models are designed to test the computational accuracy and convergence of proposed algorithms. Finally, we select a set of six cryo-electron microscopy data representing typical subcellular complexes to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed algorithms in handling biomolecular surfaces and explore their capability of geometric characterization of binding targets. This paper offers a comprehensive protocol for the geometric modeling of subcellular structures, organelles, and multiprotein complexes.
U.S. Consumer Attitudes toward Counterfeit Fashion Products

Counterfeit products pose a serious threat to the manufacturers and retailers of authentic designer products and to the world economy. While research on the demand side of counterfeiting has grown over the past two decades, few extant studies have been conducted among non-student consumers outside Asia and Europe and few studies have focused on product categories other than consumer electronic-related items (CDs, DVDs, software). Using a sample of U.S. consumers (N=305), the current research investigates consumer attitudes in the context of fashion products. In contrast to the bulk of extant research on counterfeiting, handbags and sunglasses are used as the focal product categories rather than consumer electronic-related items. Findings suggest that value consciousness, social costs and anti-big business attitude influence consumers’ intention to purchase counterfeit fashion products.
Identification of novel loci involved in entry by Legionella pneumophila

Legionella pneumophila is primarily an intracellular pathogen during infection; thus, the mechanisms of entry into host cells are likely to be important for pathogenesis. Several L. pneumophila mutants that display an enhanced-entry (Enh) phenotype were isolated by selecting for bacteria that enter host cells at a higher frequency than wild-type. In the course of characterizing the genetic basis of one of these mutants, C3, a strategy was developed for the isolation of laboratory-media-repressed virulence determinants from L. pneumophila. Screens for dominant mutations using a genomic DNA library from C3 resulted in the isolation of three cosmids that confer an Enh phenotype to wild-type L. pneumophila. Transposon mutagenesis of these cosmids allowed identification of three loci that affect entry. Analysis of the putative proteins encoded by these loci, designated rtxA and enhC, demonstrated similarity to repeats in the structural toxin protein and the secreted Sel-1 protein from Caenorhabditis elegans, respectively. L. pneumophila rtxA and enhC mutants display significantly reduced entry into host cells, compared to wild-type bacteria. The phenotype that the cosmids containing these loci confer is most likely due to elevated expression resulting from their presence on multicopy vectors. The use of increased gene copy number to overexpress genes that are normally repressed under laboratory growth conditions is generally applicable to the isolation of virulence determinants from L. pneumophila and other bacterial pathogens.
Intracellular traffic of the mannose 6-phosphate receptor and its ligands.

Eukaryotic cells are compartmentalized, increasing the efficiency of the cell by allowing the existence of microenvironments of unique properties and by segregating potentially incompatible biochemical reactions. The targeting of newly synthesized macromolecules to their correct location within the cell and the maintenance of the distinctive macromolecular composition of these compartments is an important feature of cellular organization. The mechanisms by which cells direct the intracellular traffic of macromolecules are the subject of much investigation in cell biology. One well-studied example of intracellular sorting and trafficking is the mannose 6-phosphate-mediated transport of lysosomal enzymes.
Electronic and magnetic properties of Si substituted Fe3Ge

Using first principles calculations, we studied the effect of Si substitution in the hexagonal Fe3Ge. We find the low temperature magnetic anisotropy in this system to be planar and originating mostly from the spin-orbit coupling in Fe-d states. Reduction of the unitcell volume reduces the magnitude of in-plane magnetic anisotropy, eventually turning it positive which reorients the magnetic moments to the axial direction. Substituting Ge with the smaller Si ions also increases the anisotropy, potentially enhancing the region of stability of the axial magnetization, which is beneficial for magnetic applications such as permanent magnets. Our experimental measurements on samples of Fe3Ge1−xSix confirm these predictions and show that substitution of about 6% of the Ge with Si increases by approximately 35 K the temperature range over which anisotropy is uniaxial.
Need for Cognition, Task Complexity, and Job Satisfaction

The relationship between need for cognition and task complexity was tested with 37 work teams in the Korean civil engineering management industry. Individual team members' job satisfaction was predicted by an individual factor (the interaction between individual need for cognition and individual task complexity) and a team factor (team need for cognition). Individuals high in need for cognition were more satisfied with their jobs when they perceived their task to be complex. Individual team members who belong to teams high in team need for cognition were more satisfied with their jobs, regardless of team task complexity. Regarding the relationship between team type and individuals, it was found that for individual members of teams high in both team need for cognition and in task complexity, individuals' job satisfaction was positively related to their individual need for cognition and also to their individual task complexity. These and other findings are discussed in detail and implications for the findings are provided.
Dynamic Photonic Structures: Stopping, Storage, and Time Reversal of Light

The use of dynamic photonic structures opens fascinating new possibilities for controlling the properties of light. The general idea is to create a coupled resonator array such that a light pulse can be held in the structure for a sufficiently long time, and to modulate the refractive index of the system while the pulse is in the system. Doing so allows the spectrum of the pulse to be molded almost arbitrarily with small refractive index modulations, leading to highly nontrivial information-processing capabilities on chip. As examples of such capabilities, here we show that light pulses can be stopped, stored, and time-reversed with these dynamic systems.
Simplified model for optical rectification of broadband terahertz pulses in lossy waveguides including a new generalized expression for the coherence length.

We present a simplified coupled mode theory (CMT), suited for high losses, to describe ultra-broadband THz generation through optical rectification (OR) of fs infrared pulses in waveguides. We derive a new expression that incorporates loss effects into the coherence length for OR. The simplified approach reproduces the results of a computationally rigorous integral CMT that must be used for broadband THz generation. With the new model we perform a parametric study to establish the optimal conditions for OR in symmetric, five-layer, metal/cladding/core structures with electro optic polymer cores. We find conversion efficiencies as high as 35 × 10−4 W−1 and bandwidths up to 20 THz when pumping at 1900 nm. We find that low-loss-cladding layers enhance the efficiency for phase-matched structures, increase the interaction length, and improve the stability of the efficiency with respect to variations in waveguide parameters.
Anatomic dissections relating the posterior interosseous nerve to the carpus, and the etiology of dorsal wrist ganglion pain

Prompted by the finding of a neuroma, which clinically simulated a recurrent ganglion, we dissected the terminal branches of the posterior interosseous nerve. A constant relationship between these terminal branches and the scapholunate ligament was demonstrated. Since most, if not all, dorsal wrist ganglions arise from the scapholunate ligament, we suggest that the aching wrist pain associated with a dorsal wrist ganglion may be due to a compression neuropathy of the posterior interosseous nerve.
3D models of human ERα and ERβ complexed with coumestrol

Coumestrol, a phytoestrogen found in alfalfa, clover, and beans, has nM affinity for both estrogen receptor-α [ERα] and ERβ. Recently, a novel activity of coumestrol was reported: coumestrol binding to human ERβ represses microglia-mediated inflammation, which is associated with various neurodegenerative diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. In contrast, estradiol binding to ERβ had little or no effect on repression of microglia-mediated inflammation. Coumestrol and estradiol have several structural differences, which suggest that each ligand could induce different conformations in ERβ and, thus, different transcriptional responses in brain microglia. To begin to understand how coumestrol binds to ERβ and ERα, we constructed 3D models of coumestrol with human ERβ and ERα, which were compared to the structures of these ERs with estradiol. Of four possible orientations of coumestrol in ERα and ERβ, one orientation had the most favorable contacts with both ERs. Other phytochemicals may activate ERβ and inhibit inflammation in brain microglia and be useful therapeutics for inflammatory conditions in the brain.
An operator solution of stochastic games

A class of zero-sum, two-person stochastic games is shown to have a value which can be calculated by transfinite iteration of an operator. The games considered have a countable state space, finite action spaces for each player, and a payoff sufficiently general to include classical stochastic games as well as Blackwell’s infiniteGδ games of imperfect information.
The Electrostatic Production of High Voltage for Nuclear Investigations

The developments in nuclear physics emphasize the need of a new technique adapted to deliver enormous energies in concentrated form in order to penetrate or disrupt atomic nuclei. This may be achieved by a generator of current at very high voltage. Economy, freedom from the inherent defects of an impulsive, alternating or rippling source and the logic of simplicity point to an electrostatic generator as a suitable tool for this technique. Any such generator needs a conducting terminal, its insulating support and a means for conveying electricity to the terminal. These needs are naturally met by a hollow metal sphere supported on an insulator and charged by a belt conveying electricity from earth potential and depositing it within the interior of the sphere. Four models of such a generator are described, three being successive developments of generators operating in air, and designed respectively for 80,000, 1,500,000 and 10,000,000 volts, and the fourth being an essentially similar generator operating in a highly evacuated tank. Methods are described for depositing electric charge on the belts either by external or by self-excitation. The upper limit to the attainable voltage is set by the breakdown strength of the insulating medium surrounding the sphere, and by its size. The upper limit to the current is set by the rate at which belt area enters the sphere, carrying a surface density of charge whose upper limit is that which causes a breakdown field in the surrounding medium, e.g., 30,000 volts per cm if the medium is air at atmospheric pressure. The voltage and the current each vary as the breakdown strength of the surrounding medium and the power output as its square. Also the voltage, current and power vary respectively as the 1st, 2nd and 3rd powers of the linear dimensions.
Surface Superconductivity in Type I and Type II Superconductors

The real and imaginary parts of types I- and II-superconductor a-c susceptibility were measured in both parallel and perpendicular d-c magnetic fields. A surface superconducting layer with critical field H/sub c3/ was found to exist for parallel external field if H/sub c3/ was only barely above the bulk critical field. Preliminary measurements demonstrating that H/sub c3/ can exist in a pure material as well as an alloy were made. (M.J.T.) 21l02 The finding of superconducting transitions in samples of reduced strontium titanate is reported. The transitions occurred at approximates 0.25 and 0.28 deg K. lt was ascertained that the superconductivity was a bulk effect. (C.E.S.)
Biometric identification based on novel frequency domain facial asymmetry measures

In the modern world, the ever-growing need to ensure a system's security has spurred the growth of the newly emerging technology of biometric identification. The present paper introduces a novel set of facial biometrics based on quantified facial asymmetry measures in the frequency domain. In particular, we show that these biometrics work well for face images showing expression variations and have the potential to do so in presence of illumination variations as well. A comparison of the recognition rates with those obtained from spatial domain asymmetry measures based on raw intensity values suggests that the frequency domain representation is more robust to intra-personal distortions and is a novel approach for performing biometric identification. In addition, some feature analysis based on statistical methods comparing the asymmetry measures across different individuals and across different expressions is presented.
Tocainide plus quinidine for treatment of ventricular arrhythmias.

Abstract Tocainide and quinidine were administered both as single agents and in combination to 14 patients with chronic ventricular arrhythmias. Therapy with tocainide was limited by the occurrence of dose-related adverse reactions in 8 patients, but could be titrated to a dose that was well-tolerated in 13 of 14 and effective in 2 of 13. The addition of quinidine gluconate to the tolerated dose of tocainide increased the number of patients with arrhythmia suppression from 2 to 6. After tocainide washout, quinidine alone suppressed arrhythmias in only 3 patients. Analysis of electrocardiogram intervals showed that the drugs had additive effects on the coupling interval of the sinus beat to the predominant ectopic beat, but exerted antagonistic effects on the corrected QT interval. These findings suggest that the combination may be clinically useful, exerting pharmacologiceffects unlike either agent alone.
Using swarming agents for scalable security in large network environments

The difficulty of securing computer infrastructures increases as they grow in size and complexity. Network-based security solutions such as IDS and firewalls cannot scale because of exponentially increasing computational costs inherent in detecting the rapidly growing number of threat signatures. Host-based solutions like virus scanners and IDS suffer similar issues that are compounded when enterprises try to monitor them in a centralized manner. Swarm-based autonomous agent systems like digital ants and artificial immune systems can provide a scalable security solution for large network environments. The digital ants approach offers a biologically inspired design where each ant in the virtual colony can detect atoms of evidence that may help identify a possible threat. By assembling the atomic evidences from different ant types the colony may detect the threat. This decentralized approach can require, on average, fewer computational resources than traditional centralized solutions; however there are limits to its scalability. This paper describes how dividing a large infrastructure into smaller, managed enclaves allows the digital ant framework to effectively operate in larger environments. Experimental results will show that using smaller enclaves allows for more consistent distribution of agents and results in faster response times.
The Periodic Table as a Mnemonic Device for Writing Electronic Configurations.

Lectures on electronic configurations often appear boring and intangible to many students. This topic can become engaging and interesting through the use of an interactive method based on the perio...
Interfacial reaction of Mo-W alloys with silicon

Abstract Solid state contact reactions of thin films of MoxW100−x (x =85, 57, 22) with silicon have been studied using Rutherford backscattering spectrometry, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Reactions and silicide formation were obtained by thermal annealing at temperatures between 450 and 900°C for all the alloys. No layer-by-layer phase separation was observed during silicide growth for the alloy-silicon reaction at these temperatures. The reaction temperature increased with increasing tungsten concentration in the alloys. Ion implantation of 4×1015 cm−2 of silicon at 250 keV into Mo57W43/Si and Mo22W78/Si reduced their reaction temperatures and also made the reaction products more uniform.
Electrochemistry of Late Transition Metal Complexes Containing the Ligand 1,1‘-Bis(diisopropylphosphino)ferrocene (dippf)#

The chemically reversible oxidation of 1,1‘-bis(diisopropylphosphino)ferrocene (dippf) was investigated using cyclic voltammetry. In addition, seven new compounds with general formulas of [(MCln)m(...
Neuere Untersuchungen über chemische Reaktionen in der Atmosphäre

Chemische Reaktionen in der oberen Atmosphare lassen sich mit Hilfe von Raketen direkt untersuchen oder im Laboratorium simulieren. Die in der Chemosphare vorhandenen Partikel werden durch die starke UV-Strahlung dissoziiert und ionisiert. Als Folgereaktionen treten Radikalrekombinationen, Ladungsubertragungen und Ionen-Neutralteilchenreaktionen ein. Ferner spielen Reaktionen uber Atome bzw. Radikale und Reaktionen angeregter Molekule eine Rolle.
Basis sets for multivariate regression

Estimates of regression coefficients for a multivariate linear model have been the subject of considerable discussion in the literature. A purpose of this paper is to discuss biased estimators using common basis sets. Estimators of focus are least squares, principal component regression, partial least squares, ridge regression, generalized ridge regression, continuum regression, and cyclic subspace regression. Variations of these methods are also proposed. It is shown that it is not the common basis set used to span the calibration space or the number of vectors from the common basis set used to form respective calibration models that are important, i.e. a parsimony emphasis. Instead, it is suggested that the size and direction of the calibration subspace used to form the models is essential, i.e. a harmony consideration. The approach of the paper is based on representing estimated regression vectors as weighted sums of basis vectors.
Surface buildup dose dependence on photon field delivery technique for IMRT

The more complex delivery techniques required for implementation of intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) based on inverse planning optimization have changed the relationship between dose at depth and dose at buildup regions near the surface. Surface buildup dose is dependent on electron contamination primarily from the unblocked view of the flattening filter and secondarily from air and collimation systems. To evaluate the impact of beam segmentation on buildup dose, measurements were performed with 10x10-cm2 fields which were delivered with 3 static 3.5x10-cm2 or 3x10-cm2 strips, 5 static 2x10-cm2 strips, 10 static 1x10-cm2 strips, and 1.1x10-cm2 dynamic delivery, compared with a 10x10-cm2 open field. Measurements were performed in water and Solid Water using parallel plate chambers, a stereotactic diode, and TLD for a 6 MV X-ray beam. Depth doses at 2 mm depth (relative to dose at 10-cm depth) were lower by 6%, 7%, 11%, and 10% for the above field delivery techniques, respectively, compared to the open field. These differences are most influenced by differences in MLC transmission contributing to the useful beam. An example IMRT field was also studied to assess variations due to delivery technique (static vs. dynamic) and intensity level. Buildup dose is weakly dependent on the multileaf delivery technique for efficient IMRT fields. Supported in part by NIH grant P01-CA59827.
Protection of mice against the lethal effects of sodium arsenite by 2,3 dimercapto-1-propane-sulfonic acid and dimercaptosuccinic acid.

Abstract 2,3 Dimercapto-1-propane-sulfonic acid, used by the Soviets since 1956 and virtually unknown in the United States, is a water soluble analog of British Antilewisite. 2,3 dimercapto-1-propane-sulfonic acid and dimercaptosuccinic acid are active orally for the protection of mice against the lethal effects of sodium arsenite. They are effective whether given before or after the administration of NaAsO2. Although D-penicillamine and N-acetyl-DL-penicillamine are useful in the treatment of poisoning by other heavy metals, they are devoid of any protective action under these conditions.
Three-dimensional fiber reinforcement shapes obtainable from flat, bidirectional fabrics without wrinkling or cutting. Part 1. A single four-sided pyramid

Criteria are derived for the adoption by bidirectional fabrics, without wrinkling or having to be cut, of the shapes of regular and truncated four-sided pyramids. Pyramids have topological kinship with general convex shapes. Also, their covering by fabrics is fairly simple, and the flat surfaces result in distinct deformation zones that can be compared with experiment. Only the major mode of fabric deformation, trellis shear, was considered. A fishing net analysis was applied to fabrics in specific orientations. The criterion for a fabric, to cover a pyramid having four faces rising to a peak, is that the sum of angles of the fabric quadrants arrayed around the peak must equal the sum of angles of the four faces of the pyramid. Short truncated pyramids can often be covered without wrinkling even when a taller pyramid having sides of similar steepness cannot. The criterion is again a match of angle sums. For taller truncated pyramids, the condition required for covering the corresponding non-truncated pyramid also applies.
Measures of Respiratory Activity With Resting Cells.

ConclusionsThe Qo2(N) has much to recommend it as the most suitable measure of respiration activity. With the rhizobia, for example, not only does it show the least variation of the measures employed, independent of the composition of the medium used for growth of the cells, but also it rests upon a Kjeldahl analysis which is probably the easiest and most accurate of the determinations made. As long- as respiration of washed cells remains linear with time, assimilation of a portion of the substrate should not seriously interfere with interpretation of the results.
Implementation and modeling of low power AC-DC converter with indirect feedback

In this paper, implementation of a low power, low voltage AC-DC converter is presented. Unlike DC-DC converters, direct AC-DC converters generally do not have a common ground. Such a structure makes implementation of feedback and control difficult. A novel indirect feedback strategy is proposed to solve this problem. The idea is to emulate the load impedance referenced to the system ground. The feedback circuit is very simple to implement and consumes very low power. Modeling and analysis is presented to elaborate the operation of the converter and the feedback circuit. Both simulation and experimental results are presented to verify the proposed feedback strategy and the converter.
Mechanical analysis of Kirschner wire fixation in a phalangeal model

Transverse divisions of the mid-shaft of freshly frozen pig metacarpals were fixed with Kirschner wires of two sizes and using four different configurations. Compared to the usual cross-pin fixation using wires of 0.889 mm, four wires (0.712 mm) eccentrically placed and with their ends hooked provided a 300% improvement in bending rigidity and 170% in bending movement.
Opioids, Chronic Pain, and Addiction in Primary Care

Abstract Research has largely ignored the systematic examination of physicians' attitudes towards providing care for patients with chronic noncancer pain. The objective of this study was to identify barriers and facilitators to opioid treatment of chronic noncancer pain patients by office-based medical providers. We used a qualitative study design using individual and group interviews. Participants were 23 office-based physicians in New England. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and systematically coded by a multidisciplinary team using the constant comparative method. Physician barriers included absence of objective or physiological measures of pain; lack of expertise in the treatment of chronic pain and coexisting disorders, including addiction; lack of interest in pain management; patients' aberrant behaviors; and physicians' attitudes toward prescribing opioid analgesics. Physician facilitators included promoting continuity of patient care and the use of opioid agreements. Physicians' perceptions of patient-related barriers included lack of physician responsiveness to patients' pain reports, negative attitudes toward opioid analgesics, concerns about cost, and patients' low motivation for pain treatment. Perceived logistical barriers included lack of appropriate pain management and addiction referral options, limited information regarding diagnostic workup, limited insurance coverage for pain management services, limited ancillary support for physicians, and insufficient time. Addressing these barriers to pain treatment will be crucial to improving pain management service delivery. Perspective This article demonstrates that perceived barriers to treating patients with chronic noncancer pain are common among office-based physicians. Addressing these barriers in physician training and in existing office-based programs might benefit both noncancer chronic pain patients and their medical providers.
Use of double Göbel mirrors with high-temperature stages for powder diffraction – a strategy to avoid severe intensity fade

This paper describes an approach for countering an issue that can occur when using a high-temperature stage with a diffractometer equipped with double Gobel mirrors. The optical characteristics of the dual-mirror configuration make it more susceptible to intensity loss with sample displacement than conventional parallel-beam secondary optics. This issue has been apparent in the use of a high-temperature stage on a diffractometer equipped with dual mirrors, where data could not be obtained from the full room temperature to 1273 K range without resetting the sample height manually part way through the experiment. A simple technique involving controlled contouring of the sample surface has been demonstrated to allow data to be collected uninterrupted over the full temperature range, while retaining satisfactory intensities. The extent to which this technique extends the tolerable sample displacement range has been quantified using a computer-controlled XYZ stage.
On merging partitioned databases

Partitioning of a distributed data base requires either that update activity be restricted or that a strategy for conflict resolution and partition merging be used once communication is restored. The graph-theoretic approach used by Davidson follows the latter approach and can be used to show that finding an optimum solution to the general problem is NP-complete. We give several methods of reducing the size of the graphs involved. Two open subproblems are shown to be NP-complete, while an extension of a known polynomial-time subproblem is given. Simulation results are used to study both the amount of compression achieved by the graph reduction techniques and their effects on heuristics for the problem. In addition, some modifications are made to existing heuristics to improve their performance. A simple probabilistic model is developed and compared to the simulation results.
Tetrahymena DNA forms a single band in alkaline density gradients

DNA from nuclei ofTetrahymena pyriformis was examined by equilibrium density gradient ultracentrifugation at alkaline pH. The results indicate that the DNA has a uniform distribution of guanine plus thymine in the complementary strands and throughout the nucleotide sequence of the DNA.