cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A General Measure for Output-Variable Input Demand Elasticities

In recent years the development of new production function forms has given impetus to empirical work of measuring input demand and substitution elasticities in a variety of industries. The so-called "flexible" functional forms have given us a much richer set of tools to investigate these relationships, as compared to the familiar Cobb-Douglas and constant-elasticity-of-substitution functions. The majority of researchers have reported their results in terms of input parameters estimated under the assumption of fixed output. While this is appropriate for some questions, we argue in the next section that output-variable measures often will be more useful for the problem at hand. In the third section, we derive a general expression for the output variable price elasticity of input demand, of which the well-known expression of Allen is a special case.
Parola a te! by CAPEK–HABEKOVIĆ, ROMANA, & SANDRA PALAICH

A review of the book "Parola a te!" by Romana Capek-Habekovic and Sandra Palaich is presented.
Maximum Expected F-Measure Training of Logistic Regression Models

We consider the problem of training logistic regression models for binary classification in information extraction and information retrieval tasks. Fitting probabilistic models for use with such tasks should take into account the demands of the task-specific utility function, in this case the well-known F-measure, which combines recall and precision into a global measure of utility. We develop a training procedure based on empirical risk minimization / utility maximization and evaluate it on a simple extraction task.
The Nucleoporin Nup98 Is a Site for GDP/GTP Exchange on Ran and Termination of Karyopherin β2-mediated Nuclear Import

Karyopherin beta2 (Kapbeta2, transportin) binds the M9 sequence of human ribonucleoprotein A1 and mediates its nuclear import. Here we show a role for the nucleoporin Nup98 in the disassembly of Kapbeta2 import complexes at the nuclear side of the nuclear pore complex (NPC). Kapbeta2 bound to a region at the N terminus of Nup98 that contains an M9-like sequence. The human ribonucleoprotein A1 M9 sequence competed with Nup98 for binding to Kapbeta2, indicating that Nup98 can dissociate Kapbeta2 from its substrate. Binding of Kapbeta2 to Nup98 was inhibited by Ran loaded with guanylyl imidophosphate, suggesting that RanGTP dissociates Kapbeta2 from Nup98. RanGTP is produced from RanGDP through nucleotide exchange mediated by RanGEF (RCC1). Immunoelectron microscopy and nucleotide exchange assays revealed functional RanGEF on both sides of the NPC. On the nuclear side, the localization of RanGEF coincided with that of Nup98. RanGEF bound to Nup98 at a region adjacent to the Kapbeta2-binding site. These findings suggest a model where 1) import substrate is released from Kapbeta2 at the nucleoplasmic side of the NPC by competition with the Nup98 M9-like site, 2) Nup98-bound RanGEF catalyzes the formation of RanGTP, and 3) RanGTP dissociates Kapbeta2 from Nup98 allowing repeated cycles of import.
Teaching Subtraction and Multiplication with Regrouping Using the Concrete‐Representational‐Abstract Sequence and Strategic Instruction Model

Based on Common Core Standards (2010), mathematics interventions should emphasize conceptual understanding of numbers and operations as well as fluency. For students at risk for failure, the concrete-representational-abstract (CRA) sequence and the Strategic Instruction Model (SIM) have been shown effective in teaching computation with an emphasis on conceptual understanding. No studies have investigated the effects of CRA and SIM for teaching multiplication with regrouping. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to replicate and extend the literature, teaching subtraction and multiplication with regrouping using CRA and SIM. Three students receiving tier three mathematics interventions participated. A multiple-probe across behaviors design was used to show a functional relation. All of the students demonstrated increases in fluency across all regrouping tasks.
Experiments on jet flows and jet noise far-field spectra and directivity patterns

The results of measurements of far-field sound emitted from jets are reported. The narrow-band power spectral density of the sound in the far field was measured for three jet diameters, three Mach numbers, and five angular positions. The intensity distribution of mean-square pressure fluctuation in the far field in several wide frequency ranges were also measured. The similarity relations found from the experiments are reported.
Development of RNA polymerase-promoter contacts during open complex formation.

Abstract We have charted the movements of E σ 32 RNA polymerase at the heat-shock promoter P groE throughout open complex formation, using hydroxyl radical footprinting. In combination with methylation protection and DNase I experiments, these data suggest the following model for open complex formation. E σ 32 initially anchors itself in the upstream region of the promoter forming the first closed complex, RP C1 ; in this complex the enzyme makes backbone contacts in the −35 region of the promoter that are maintained throughout open complex formation. An isomerization follows resulting in a second closed complex, RP C2 ; in this complex the enzyme makes base-specific and backbone contacts in the −10 region that are almost identical to those found in the open complex. Thus, at the groE promoter, upstream contacts are established in RP c1 and downstream contacts in RP c2 . A similar pattern of backbone contacts was obtained for E σ 32 bound in the open complex at two additional heat-shock promoters, suggesting that the overall topology of holoenzyme in the open complex is similar regardless of sequence variations in the promoter.
Measurement of appetite disturbances in psychiatric disorders.

Abstract A visual analogue scale was used for the self rating of appetite in 18 normals and 32 psychiatric patients. Appetite scores were shown to correlate with quantity of food intake, to fluctuate in the expected manner in relation to meals, and at an hourly interval to be a reliable measurement in both the normal and patient populations. Patients, chosen for their clarity of diagnosis, marked appetite slips either once/day for several weeks or once/hr for 1 or more days. All diagnostic groups showed the same general pattern of appetite scores changing in relation to meals. However, quantitative differences were found among different diagnostic groups. Schizophrenic patients receiving high doses of chlorpromazine and manic patients had the highest appetite scores, schizophrenic patients receiving low doses of phenothiazines and patients with neurotic personality disorders had appetite scores which ranked in the middle while patients with an endogenous depression had the lowest rank appetite scores. both quantity of food intake and body weight change correlated with appetite scores. The elevation of appetite noted in schizophrenic patients receiving high doses of phenothiazines was thought to be an effect of the medication and to be mainly responsible for the marked weight gain. It was recommended that further research proceed along the lines of delineating central nervous system mechanisms involved in chlorpromazine induced hunger.
Structural Adjustment, Spatial Imaginaries, and “Piracy” in Guatemala's Apparel Industry

This article examines how urban violence influences the everyday lives of Guatemalan Maya entrepreneurs who make nontraditional clothing to sell in highland markets and Guatemala City. How urban space is imagined and experienced among apparel producers reflects a process of class differentiation linked to Guatemala's entrance into international trade and legal agreements. Realities of uneven access and unequal resource distribution allow some producers to take advantage of formal markets and official networks in the capital city, while others avoid the city streets out of fear. Such inequalities are obscured when entrepreneurs who benefit from urban connections talk about relative success in terms of a moral division between those who engage in brand piracy and those who do not. In line with an official discourse that blames “pirates,” gangs, and other marginalized groups for the country's social and economic ills, apparel producers who do not copy popular brands often view those who do as immoral and illegal. The case study presented here is fruitful ground for theorizing how cultural representations of urban space influence market strategies and moral logics amidst processes of economic and legal restructuring.
Multichannel microchip electrospray mass spectrometry.

Microfabricated multiple-channel glass chips were successfully interfaced to an electrospray ionization mass spectrometer (ESI-MS). The microchip device was fabricated by standard photolithographic, wet chemical etching, and thermal bonding procedures. A high voltage was applied individually from each buffer reservoir for spraying sample sequentially from each channel. With the sampling orifice of the MS grounded, it was found that a liquid flow of 100−200 nL/min was necessary to maintain a stable electrospray. The detection limit of the microchip MS experiment for myoglobin was found to be lower than 6 × 10-8 M. Samples in 75% methanol were successfully analyzed with good sensitivity, as were aqueous samples. The parallel multiple-channel microchip system allowed ESI-MS analysis of different samples of standard peptides and proteins in one chip.
Superconducting Tunnel Junction Photon Detectors: Theory and Applications

Superconducting tunnel junctions (STJs) are being developed for photon and particle detection because they combine the high energy resolution of low temperature detector technologies with the high count rate capabilities of athermal devices. This makes them attractive sensors for applications in optical astronomy, synchrotron-based material science and biophysics, and plasma diagnostics. This review provides an overview about STJ design, operation and performance, and discusses some of the scientific applications that are currently driving STJ development.
A revised death anxiety scale

Abstract This article reports on the development and factor analysis of a Revised Death Anxiety Scale that has an acceptable level of reliability (Cronbach alpha—.83) and that has been shown to be age-sensitive. Five studies using different versions of the scale are detailed, and data differentiating constructions of death anxiety for those high and for those low in death anxiety are presented.
A deletion involving intron 13 and exon 14 of factor VIII gene in a haemophiliac with anti-factor VIII antibody.

A deletion mutation in the factor VIII gene of a severe haemophiliac patient was found along with a high level of factor VIII inhibitor in the blood plasma among seventy Japanese haemophilia A patients. The 6 kbp long deletion involved a region from somewhere betweenPstI andSstI sites at nucleotide positions 2659 and 2991 of exon 14 and intron 13, respectively (nucleotide positions were defined as in Woodet al., 1984).
FORUM 2: Availability of experimental data for computer modelling

Having stated the reasons for the importance of available quality field or laboratory data for computer modelling, the author calls readers' attention to the urgency of data availability.
Structural damage detection using neural network with learning rate improvement

In this research, we explore the structural damage detection using frequency response functions (FRFs) as input data to the back-propagation neural network (BPNN). Such method is non-model based and thus could have advantage in many practical applications. Neural network based damage detection generally consists of a training phase and a recognition phase. Error back-propagation algorithm incorporating gradient method can be applied to train the neural network, whereas the training efficiency heavily depends on the learning rate. While various training algorithms, such as the dynamic steepest descent (DSD) algorithm and the fuzzy steepest descent (FSD) algorithm, have shown promising features (such as improving the learning convergence speed), their performance is hinged upon the proper selection of certain control parameters and control strategy. In this paper, a tunable steepest descent (TSD) algorithm using heuristics approach, which improves the convergence speed significantly without sacrificing the algorithm simplicity and the computational effort, is investigated. A series of numerical examples demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms both the DSD and FSD algorithms. With this as basis, we implement the neural network to the FRF based structural damage detection. The analysis results on a cantilevered beam show that, in all considered damage cases (i.e., trained damage cases and unseen damage cases, single damage cases and multiple-damage cases), the neural network can assess damage conditions with very good accuracy.
C-reactive protein: purification by affinity chromatography and physicochemical characterization

Abstract A new method for obtaining C-reactive protein from ascites fluid in highly purified form and high yields has been described. It is based on the Ca2+-dependent affinity of this protein for phosphorylcholine. Purified C-reactive protein was shown to be homogeneous by electrophoretic, immunochemical and ultracentrifugal criteria. By sedimentation equilibrium a molecular weight of 118,000 was calculated in neutral buffer. In 5 M guanidine hydrochloride the apparent molecular weight was 24,300.
Effects of lesion conspicuity on visual search in mammogram reading

Rationale and Objectives The goal of mammography screening is to detect breast cancer at early stages, but because of the complexity of the breast parenchyma and the variability of signs of the disease, many cancers go unreported when initially visible on the mammogram. We compared the visual search strategy used by experienced mammographers in a case set where they examined both the mammogram in which a malignant mass was discovered at screening mammography and the most recent prior mammogram. Materials and Methods Four experienced mammographers participated in this experiment. They read a case set of 20 two-view mammograms, of which 15 contained a malignant mass and 5 were lesion-free, in two trials. For each of the cancer cases, two versions were shown to the observers: the one in which the cancer was reported in the clinical practice, called the “current” mammograms, and the most recent prior. Each trial had a balanced mix of current and prior mammograms. In addition, the same set of lesion-free cases was shown to the observers in both trials. The eye movements of the observers were tracked, and visual search parameters such as time to hit the location of the malignant mass, dwell, and mean pupil size in the location of the cancer were collected. Statistical analyses were used to determine whether there were differences between the current and prior mammograms. Results A total of 66% of the malignant masses in the current mammograms and 57% in the priors attracted some amount of visual attention. From these, 71% yielded a report on the current mammograms, but only 40% on the priors. In the cases where the observer saw the malignant mass, they did so within 2 seconds of image display, regardless of whether the mammogram was current or prior. Conclusion Most unreported malignant masses attracted some amount of visual attention, but it was in the processing of the information extracted in the location of the lesion that most errors occurred. In our experiment, approximately 70% of the total time used by the observers for visual scan of the cases was spent gathering information to corroborate the hypothesis already formed by the radiologist.
MEASURING CORPORATE TAX RATES AND TAX INCENTIVES: A NEW APPROACH

Taxes play an important but underemphasized role in the valuation of a company and its projects. For example, the authors estimate that the expected tax benefits from interest deductions by all publicly traded U.S. corporations were responsible for almost $1.4 trillion of their total market value of $12.7 trillion in 1991. In the case of RJR's 1989 leveraged buyout alone, the capitalized value of the interest tax shield amounted to several billion dollars (or about 25%) of the company's market value. This article argues that, to maximize shareholder wealth, the corporate planning process should include a careful analysis of corporate tax incentives. Using several examples, the authors show how earnings variability and major provisions of the tax code interact to affect a company's expected marginal tax rate. After describing the complexities involved in properly calculating corporate tax rates, the article concludes by describing a simulation method the authors have developed to measure a company's effective marginal tax rate and, hence, its tax incentives to use more leverage (or some other means of reducing taxable income). In furnishing a method for calculating marginal tax rates with greater accuracy, the authors also provide a clue to resolving the capital structure puzzle discussed in the roundtable at the head of this issue. In particular, their recent research corrects earlier studies in the finance literature by showing that when marginal tax rates are measured before financing (that is, based on income before interest expense is deducted), there is a positive relation between debt usage and tax rates.
The limits of the cellular capacity to mediate an estrogen response

While steroid response is generally restricted by the availability of steroid receptors, the theoretical limits of the response are not known. We have constructed a series of cell lines that stably express the estrogen receptor (ER) at levels up to 5,000,000 ERs per cell and employed these cells to explore the limits of the estrogen response. Several reporter genes with estrogen response elements upstream of the herpes thymidine kinase promoter showed hyperbolic saturation kinetics with increasing ER. Maximum response was 10 times that seen in cell lines with receptor titers comparable to physiological levels. Half-maximal responses required 500,000 receptors per cell, and cells with 5,000,000 ERs showed greater than 90% maximum induction. Estradiol dose-response studies indicated that the receptors are limiting below 500,000 ERs per cell, but at higher ER titers there are spare receptors. In contrast to most reporters, the widely used reporter pA2-CAT, which has 200 base pairs of Xenopus vitellogenin DNA...
Quantifying the Dependence of Westerly Wind Bursts on the Large-Scale Tropical Pacific SST

Abstract The correlation between parameters characterizing observed westerly wind bursts (WWBs) in the equatorial Pacific and the large-scale SST is analyzed using singular value decomposition. The WWB parameters include the amplitude, location, scale, and probability of occurrence for a given SST distribution rather than the wind stress itself. This approach therefore allows for a nonlinear relationship between the SST and the wind signal of the WWBs. It is found that about half of the variance of the WWB parameters is explained by only two large-scale SST modes. The first mode represents a developed El Nino event, while the second mode represents the seasonal cycle. More specifically, the central longitude of WWBs, their longitudinal extent, and their probability seem to be determined to a significant degree by the ENSO-driven signal. The amplitude of the WWBs is found to be strongly influenced by the phase of the seasonal cycle. It is concluded that the WWBs, while partially stochastic, seem an inheren...
Analyses of phenolic and flavonoid compounds by high-pressure liquid chromatography

Abstract A technique to separate complex phenolics extracted from plant tissue has been developed using high-pressure liquid chromatography. The compounds, in glycosidic and ester linkages, can be collected as separation occurs. After hydrolysis, flavonoid components as well as the benzoic and cinnamic acid derivatives can be separated and identified with one chromatographic analysis of tissue samples. These techniques may be helpful in toxicity studies and in determining the role of phenolics in plants.
RISK HANDLING IN DRUG ADOPTION: THE ROLE OF COMPANY PREFERENCE

Until a new product has established a reputation based on experience in using it, consumers are likely to balance the attractiveness of a potentially superior product against the risk of adverse characteristics not apparent when it is introduced. Here is a study of physicians' choices of some newly introduced prescription drugs. Raymond A. Bauer is Professor of Business Administration in the Graduate School of Business Administration at Harvard University.
The Rapid Anorectic Response to a Threonine Imbalanced Diet is decreased by Injection of Threonine into the Anterior Piriform Cortex of Rats

Rats quickly recognize and reject diets deficient in an essential amino acid. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the anterior piriform cortex (APC), the site traditionally recognized as the amino acid chemosensor, plays a role in this early behavior. Rats had cannulae implanted bilaterally into the APC, and were injected with either saline vehicle or 2 nmoles of threonine (n = 6 per group). All rats were then fed a diet imbalanced with respect to threonine. The threonine-injected group had first meals of longer duration and consumed more food. These data conformed to expectations derived from earlier studies of responses to the first meal of an amino acid imbalanced diet. We conclude that the concentration of the dietary limiting amino acid in the APC regulates acceptance and rejection of amino acid deficient diets.
Utility scale wind turbines on a grid-connected island: A feasibility study

This paper analyzes the technical and economic feasibility of installing utility-scale wind turbines on the Fox Islands, located 12 miles from the coast of Maine in the United States. Three locations on the islands, as well as a near offshore site, are analyzed in detail as potential sites for wind turbine installations. As discussed in this work, the logistic problems of transporting and installing wind turbines on the island require innovative solutions. These include locally available amphibious vessels, which can land turbine components at suitable shallow spots on the island, self-erecting towers, which allow use of a smaller crane for installation, and a special turbine foundation suitable for the local ground conditions. In the economic analysis, in addition to standard life-cycle parameters, renewable energy credits (REC) were also included. This work concludes that the installation of sub-megawatt wind turbines on the island is logistically possible and will lead to a reduction in the cost of electricity to the customers.
POGGENDORFF ILLUSION AS A FUNCTION OF ORIENTATION OF TRANSVERSAL AND PARALLEL LINES

Adult human subjects (8 male, 8 female undergraduates) with normal vision were required to judge various orientations of the Poggendorff illusion. The transversal and parallel line-segments of the illusion were manipulated to produce the orientations to be judged. Minimum illusion occured when the transversal line-segment was oriented 90 degrees with respect to true vertical or true horizontal. Magnitude of illusion increased as the transversal line-segment deviated from these positions. The findings suggested that there is a stability of horizontal and vertical orientations. In addition, the hypothesis that visual acuity plays a role in the perception of the Poggendorff illusion was proposed.
Intercellular adhesion molecule expression in the evolving human cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity reaction.

Abstract Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), putatively expressed by antigen-presenting or target skin cells, is a ligand for the lymphocyte function-associated antigen (LFA-1) present on circulating lymphocytes. Immunohistochemistry of normal adult human skin using monoclonal antiserum to ICAM-1 demonstrated focal reactivity restricted to endothelium lining the dermal microvasculature. Delayed hypersensitivity responses elicited with dinitrochlorobenzene in the skin of the same subject were evaluated sequentially over a 96 h period using immunohistochemical and ultrastructural techniques. The first alteration observed consisted of mast cell degranulation within perivenular foci in the superficial dermis at 4 h after antigen challenge. Sparse superficial perivascular T-cell infiltrates were present by 24 h. Progressive staining for ICAM-1 was observed in microvascular endothelium and in dermal dendritic cells between 24 and 48 h. ICAM-1 expression was documented focally within the lower epidermis at 48 h and diffusely within the lower and upper epidermal layers at 96 h. ICAM-1 expression by keratinocytes was consistently associated with T-cell migration into the epidermis, whereas migration was never observed in the absence of ICAM-1 reactivity. Immunoelectron microscopy confirmed ICAM-1 to be exclusively present on endothelial cells, dermal dendritic cells, mononuclear cells, and keratinocytes, and permitted characterization of the patterns of membrane reactivity. ICAM-1 expression by epidermal cells appears to be closely linked to the progressive migration of T cells from the dermis into the epidermis that characterizes cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity.
The design and implementation of a private message service for mobile computers

Even as wireless networks create the potential for access to information from mobile platforms, they pose a problem for privacy. In order to retrieve messages, users must periodically poll the network. The information that the user must give to the network could potentially be used to track that user. However, the movements of the user can also be used to hide the user's location if the protocols for sending and retrieving messages are carefully designed. We have developed a replicated memory service which allows users to read from memory without revealing which memory locations they are reading. Unlike previous protocols, our protocol is efficient in its use of computation and bandwidth. In this paper, we will show how this protocol can be used in conjunction with existing privacy preserving protocols to allow a user of a mobile computer to maintain privacy despite active attacks.
Variation of Elasticity along Single Microfibrils of Bacterial Cellulose

A NUMBER of models have been proposed for the internal fine structure of individual cellulose microfibrils which suggest variability both across and along the axis of the microfibril. Frey-Wyssling1 has suggested that microfibrils are subdivided into four continuous crystalline strands, each about 70 A. wide, which run parallel to the microfibril axis and are held together by a paracrystalline matrix. In contrast, Preston2 has concluded that cellulose microfibrils from algae are composed of a paracrystalline sheath surrounding a highly crystalline single core which is interrupted at random positions by less-crystalline material labile to electron bombardment. The positions occupied by this material may coincide with the sites of trace residues (Fremdgruppen) postulated by H. K. Meyer and van der Wyk and by Treiber3.
Development of Al2O3/TiCN Ceramic Composite Cutting Tool and Research on its Milling Performance

In this paper, ceramic composite materials for the milling tools have been developed by the hot pressing method. High performance Al2O3/TiCN ceramic composite materials were obtained successfully by adjusting the containing amount of Al2O3 and TiCN as the base material and the reinforcements in the ceramic composite materials, and optimizing the sintering process parameters. Moreover, the microstructure and mechanical property of this material was discussed. In addition, this new developed ceramic composite material was made into insert and its milling performance tests were carried out. The machining performance of the insert is better than carbide inserts when milling a hardened carbon steel.
The influence of attitude on the recall of controversial material: A failure to confirm

Abstract Recent research has provided little empirical support for the hypothesis, based on the well-known study by Levine and Murphy, that an individual learns and remembers best material which is consonant with his relevant attitudes. A further attempt was made to investigate this hypothesis, creating conditions which were as similar as possible to those prevailing in the Levine and Murphy study. No indications of the Levine-Murphy relationship between attitude and memory were found. Furthermore, no support was found for the extension of this hypothesis suggested by Jones and Kohler, that an individual will remember best plausible covaluant material and implausible contravaluant material.
Myosin Light Chain Kinase Activity Regulates the Number of Leading Edges in Zebrafish Embryonic Keratocytes

Rapidly motile cells such as neutrophils and keratocytes typically polarize to generate a single front and rear in order to sustain productive forward movement. However, other less persistently motile cell types, such as fibroblasts and epithelial cells, frequently have multiple, apparently independent, protrusive fronts. The mechanisms that limit polarization to a single front and rear for rapidly motile cells are largely unknown. Here we use embryonic zebrafish keratocytes to investigate how a purely lamellipodial cytoskeleton self-organizes to regulate protrusion number and overall cell polarity. We have observed that keratocytes derived from 4 days post-fertilization (dpf) embryos often form multiple protrusions, suggesting that the motility machinery in these cells polarizes differently from "single front" keratocytes such as those found at 2dpf. To elucidate the mechanism for this difference in polarization behavior, we performed gene expression analysis on 2dpf and 4dpf cells and found that 4dpf cells express higher levels of MLCK. Treatment of 4dpf cells with the MLCK inhibitor ML7 can induce ∼50% of multiple-front cells to form a single leading edge. To determine whether ML7 induces single-front behavior by decreasing actin turnover, we tested whether ML7 treatment synergizes with the actin filament stabilizing drug jasplakinolide, and found that >90% will form a single front in response to this drug combination. We have also found that ML7 treatment increases the width of leading edges in 4dpf cells, including those that don't form a single front. Based on these results, we speculate that increased MLCK activity in 4dpf cells increases actin turnover at the leading edge, limiting the size of each protrusion. This represents a novel mechanism for myosin activity to regulate cell polarity not by controlling the rear but rather by influencing the front from afar.
Experimental Deformation Mechanics of Materials from their Near-Atomic-Resolution Defect Images

A novel approach to quantitative interpretation of high-resolution electron microscopy images of defects in materials has been developed. The emphasis of this paper is on the methodology, which has been named Computational Fourier Transform Moire Analysis. The essential principle of this technique is to extract an accurate displacement field about a defect from its near-atomic-resolution picture using digital Fourier transformation procedures. From this data, the displacement gradient can be calculated which yields much information on the experimental deformation mechanics of the material under investigation. As a by-product, we produce the computational Moire pattern without the need of an external perfect reference lattice image normally associated with the interference phenomena. This method is illustrated using a bounding Frank partial dislocation for a Frank loop of the vacancy type. Results are presented on its strain field, Burgers vector and dislocation core shape and dimensions. Further mention will be made on the types of J-integral calculations that can result from this experimental study.
Is memantine a potential therapeutic for Rett syndrome

Memantine is a low-affinity, voltage-dependent, non-competitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist. It is classified as a neuroprotective aminoadamantane. It does not cure or reverse Alzheimer's but it does effectively treat symptoms, slows the progression of the disease and allows many patients to perform daily cognitive activities with clear thoughts. Based on it's success in patients with Alzheimer's, memantine has been tested in other neurological disorders with impaired learning and memory. In this review, we will discuss the success and failures of memantine in Downs Syndrome and Fragile X research and from those results, assess the potential benefit of memantine in Rett Syndrome (RTT).
Application of neural networks to defect detection in cantilever beams with linearized damage behavior

This paper shows the feasibility of using a very simple feed-forward backpropagation neural network for fast and accurate estimation of the location and size of a crack in a cantilever beam. The presented network is trained and tested using data generated by a linear, closed-form, one-dimensional theoretical model of the cracked beam. It is shown that the neural network is a very attractive alternative to presently used methods.
RADIOTHERAPY VERSUS RADIOSURGERY IN TREATING PATIENTS WITH ACROMEGALY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

ABSTRACT Objective: When patients with acromegaly have residual disease following surgery, adjuvant radiation therapy is considered. Both stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and conventional fractionat...
HFE Genotyping Using Multiplex Allele-Specific Polymerase Chain Reaction and Capillary Electrophoresis

Abstract Context.—Hereditary hemochromatosis is recognized as one of the most common autosomal recessive disorders, with a prevalence of 1 in 200 to 400 in the white population. Early detection and...
On automated prepared statement generation to remove SQL injection vulnerabilities

Since 2002, over 10% of total cyber vulnerabilities were SQL injection vulnerabilities (SQLIVs). This paper presents an algorithm of prepared statement replacement for removing SQLIVs by replacing SQL statements with prepared statements. Prepared statements have a static structure, which prevents SQL injection attacks from changing the logical structure of a prepared statement. We created a prepared statement replacement algorithm and a corresponding tool for automated fix generation. We conducted four case studies of open source projects to evaluate the capability of the algorithm and its automation. The empirical results show that prepared statement code correctly replaced 94% of the SQLIVs in these projects.
Prolactin Suppresses Glucocorticoid-Induced Thymocyte Apoptosis in Vivo

The hypothesis that prolactin (PRL) functions as an immunomodulator was based on studies showing lymphocyte PRL receptors, and its effects on growth, differentiation, and apoptosis in lymphoid cells. However, studies of PRL (PRL-/-) and PRL receptor knockout mice indicated that PRL was not required for immune system development or function under basal conditions. Because PRL maintains survival in glucocorticoid (GC)-treated Nb2-T lymphocytes in vitro, and PRL and GCs are elevated during stress, we investigated whether PRL protected T cells in vivo from GC-induced apoptosis. Adrenalectomized mice [PRL -/-, undetectable PRL; pituitary grafted PRL-/- (PRL-/-Graft), elevated PRL; and PRL+/-, normal PRL] were treated with dexamethasone (DEX) or PBS. Thymocytes and splenocytes were isolated and annexin V labeling of phosphatidylserine, DNA fragmentation, and caspase-3 activation were assessed as indices of apoptosis. Total thymocytes and CD4+ and CD8+ T cells obtained from DEX-treated PRL-/- mice exhibited significantly increased annexin V binding. In contrast, binding was not altered by DEX in PRL-/-Graft thymocytes. In addition, DEX induced classic DNA fragmentation in PRL-/- thymocytes. Elevated serum PRL reduced this effect. Thymocytes from DEX-treated PRL-/- mice exhibited increased caspase-3 activation, which was inhibited in cells from PRL-/-Graft mice. Finally, elevated expression of X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis, XIAP, was observed in thymi from DEX-treated PRL -/-Graft mice. This is the first demonstration that elevated PRL antagonizes apoptosis in thymocytes exposed to GCs in vivo. These observations suggest that, under conditions of increased GCs, such as during stress, elevated PRL functions physiologically to maintain survival and function of T-lymphocytes.
Mechanism of Action of Nalidixic Acid on Escherichia coli III. Conditions Required for Lethality

Deitz, William H. (Sterling-Winthrop Research Institute, Rensselaer, N.Y.), Thomas M. Cook, and William A. Goss. Mechanism of action of nalidixic acid on Escherichia coli. III. Conditions required for lethality. J. Bacteriol. 91:768–773. 1966.—Nalidixic acid selectively inhibited deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis in cultures of Escherichia coli 15TAU. Protein and ribonucleic acid synthesis were shown to be a prerequisite for the bactericidal action of the drug. This action can be prevented by means of inhibitors at bacteriostatic concentrations. Both chloramphenicol, which inhibits protein synthesis, and dinitrophenol, which uncouples oxidative phosphorylation, effectively prevented the bactericidal action of nalidixic acid on E. coli. The lethal action of nalidixic acid also was controlled by transfer of treated cells to drug-free medium. DNA synthesis resumed immediately upon removal of the drug and was halted immediately by retreatment. These studies indicate that nalidixic acid acts directly on the replication of DNA rather than on the “initiator” of DNA synthesis. The entry of nalidixic acid into cells of E. coli was not dependent upon protein synthesis. Even in the presence of an inhibiting concentration of chloramphenicol, nalidixic acid prevented DNA synthesis by E. coli 15TAU.
An algorithmic approach for a special class of Markov chains

In this paper, we develop an algorithmic method for the evaluation of the steady state probability vector of a special class of finite state Markov chains. For the class of Markov chains considered here, it is assumed that the matrix associated with the set of linear equations for the steady state probabilities possess a special structure, such that it can be rearranged and decomposed as a sum of two matrices, one lower triangular with nonzero diagonal elements, and the other an upper triangular matrix with only very few nonzero columns. Almost all Markov chain models of queueing systems with finite source and/or finite capacity and first-come-first-served or head of the line nonpreemptive priority service discipline belongs to this special class.
A SEPIOLITE-RICH PLAYA DEPOSIT IN SOUTHERN NEVADA*

Sepiolite is seldom reported in playa deposits, even though it is generally believed to form in a highly saline, alkaline environment. Its rareness suggests that unusual conditions are necessary for formation of sepiolite. Sepiolite is a major constituent of a near-surface playa bed 4 ft thick in the Amargosa Desert, southern Nye County, Nevada. Associated materials include dolomite and small to trace amounts of quartz, feldspar, montmorillonite, illite, and volcanic glass. The dolomite, averaging about 2μ in size, makes up about 40% of the bed. The overlying beds and the underlying ones down to a sampled depth of 13½ ft are montmorillonitic (saponite) clays with moderate to trace amounts of sepiolite; dolomite is abundant in all these clays except in the uppermost several feet, where calcite is a major constituent. Ground water in this area contains abundant magnesium compared with that in the rest of the Amargosa Desert. An initial high concentration of magnesium in the playa lake water probably promoted the development of sepiolite and dolomite. Concentration of dissolved salts through evaporation of water is believed to have started chemical precipitation of dolomite, and this precipitation and the continued evaporation later caused deposition of sepiolite.
Mammalian CNTD1 is critical for meiotic crossover maturation and deselection of excess precrossover sites

Meiotic crossovers (COs) are crucial for ensuring accurate homologous chromosome segregation during meiosis I. Because the double-strand breaks (DSBs) that initiate meiotic recombination greatly outnumber eventual COs, this process requires exquisite regulation to narrow down the pool of DSB intermediates that may form COs. In this paper, we identify a cyclin-related protein, CNTD1, as a critical mediator of this process. Disruption of Cntd1 results in failure to localize CO-specific factors MutLγ and HEI10 at designated CO sites and also leads to prolonged high levels of pre-CO intermediates marked by MutSγ and RNF212. These data show that maturation of COs is intimately coupled to deselection of excess pre-CO sites to yield a limited number of COs and that CNTD1 coordinates these processes by regulating the association between the RING finger proteins HEI10 and RNF212 and components of the CO machinery.
Re-Entering Modernity: From The ‘End of History’ To ‘The New World Order’ 1

Silence begins in the channels of communication. Certain political leaders, institutions, and priests attempt to denounce what is happening, but are unable to establish contact with the population. The silence begins with a strong odor. People sniff the suicides [the deaths], but it eludes them. Then silence finds another ally: solitude. People fear suicides Ideaths] as they fear madmen [read Hussein and Bush]. And the person who wants to fight senses his [her] solitude and is frightened. Whereupon the silence reverts to patriotism. Fear finds its great moral revelation in patriotism, with its indubitable capacity for justification, its climate of glory and sacrifice (Jacob0 Timerman 1982: 52).*
Integration of Troponin I Phosphorylation With Cardiac Regulatory Networks

We focus here on the modulation of thin filament activity by cardiac troponin I phosphorylation as an integral and adaptive mechanism in cardiac homeostasis and as a mechanism vulnerable to maladaptive response to stress. We discuss a current concept of cardiac troponin I function in the A-band region of the sarcomere and potential signaling to cardiac troponin I in a network involving the ends of the thin filaments at the Z-disk and the M-band regions. The cardiac sarcomere represents a remarkable set of interacting proteins that functions not only as a molecular machine generating the heartbeat but also as a hub of signaling. We review how phosphorylation signaling to cardiac troponin I is integrated, with parallel signals controlling excitation–contraction coupling, hypertrophy, and metabolism.
Relationship concerning the nature and concentration of Fe(III) species on the surface of TiO2 particles and photocatalytic activity of the catalyst

Abstract There have been contradictory results concerning the effect of doping TiO2 with Fe(III) upon its photocatalytic activity. We believe that this is due to the method used in adding the Fe(III) to TiO2. This paper addresses this issue by using a precise adsorption process for loading stable aqueous suspensions (sols) of TiO2 doped with Fe(III). In this manner, we control the speciation of Fe(III) on the surface of TiO2 and subsequently use these loaded sols to produce stable thin-film photocatalysts. Adsorption isotherms for these systems at different pH (2.0 and 2.5) values showed that both pH and the concentration of Fe(III) in solution influence the adsorption density of Fe(III), the stability of the resulting sols, and the speciation (degree of polymerization) of Fe(III) ions on the surface of the TiO2 nano-particles. UV-Vis spectroscopy on selected systems was the technique employed to confirm these results. The pore structure of the resulting gels (xerogels) prepared from these sols, as well as thermal stability of porous materials prepared by firing the xerogels have been determined by measuring N2 adsorption as a function of firing temperature. Thermal analysis (TG–DTA) studies on xerogels obtained from some of these systems showed that the presence of Fe(III) species on the TiO2 retards the conversion of anatase into rutile and therefore increases the thermal stability of the gel microstructure. Lastly, porous films, resulting from the casting of the sols on glass rings and subsequent firing, were used in photocatalytic studies. In the presence of UV light, these supported films were capable of degrading ethanol in the gas phase. While photocatalytic activity for Fe(III) loaded TiO2 films is less than for TiO2 films without Fe(III), the speciation of Fe(III) on the surface directly influences the behavior of the intermediate—acetaldehyde—formed in this reaction. Since we have only evaluated the effect of iron speciation on the degradation of ethanol, other target species may be influenced either advantageously or deleteriously depending upon the state of Fe(III) on the surface of TiO2 photocatalysts.
Soy Content of Basal Diets Determines the Effects of Supplemental Selenium in Male Mice

The effects of supplemental Se in rodent models may depend upon composition of the basal diet to which it is added. Wild-type male littermates of Transgenic Adenocarcinoma of Mouse Prostate mice were fed until 18 wk of age 1 of 2 Se-adequate stock diets high in soy (HS) or low in phytoestrogens (LP) or the same diets supplemented with 3.0 mg Se/kg diet as seleno-methylselenocysteine. Body and abdominal fat pad weights were lower (P < 0.01) in mice fed the HS diet. Supplemental Se reduced fat pad weights in mice receiving the LP diet but increased body and fat pad weights in mice consuming the HS formulation (P-interaction < 0.005). Serum free triiodothyronine concentrations were unaffected by supplemental Se in mice fed the LP diet but were decreased by Se supplementation of mice given the HS feed (P-interaction < 0.02). Free thyroxine concentrations were higher in mice consuming the HS diet regardless of Se intake (P < 0.001). Hepatic mRNA for iodothyronine deiodinase I was lower (P < 0.001) in mice fed the HS diet. Supplementation of Se increased this mRNA (P < 0.001) in both diet groups. Results from this study show a significant interaction between the composition of basal diets and the effects of supplemental Se with respect to body composition. These findings have important implications for future studies in rodent models of the effects of supplemental Se on heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and other conditions related to body weight and composition.
Photon management for enhanced open-circuit voltage in nanostructured solar cells

We review the recent progress on using pure photonic engineering for voltage enhancement of nanostructured solar cells. These works use a detailed balance analysis for the current–voltage modeling of their devices, while taking into account of intrinsic material nonidealities to determine their fundamental limiting performances. The physics of voltage enhancement in these nanostructures is elucidated and shown to be related to the suppression of thermal emission in the immediate vicinity of the material electronic bandgap. We also review a recent work on using thermal emission suppresion in a single material tandem cell configuration to overcome the Shockley–Queisser limit.
The Effect of a Technology Shock on Contract Form: Revenue-Sharing in Movie Exhibition and the Coming of Sound

During the silent era, movie producers rented the vast majority of their films to exhibitors for flat per-day fees. A technology "shock" in the form of the coming of sound led to the widespread replacement of flat fees by revenue-sharing. This paper seeks to determine why. It finds that sound technology altered the structure of incentives in movie exhibition, reducing the role of the exhibitor (which decreased concern about exhibitor shirking), reducing the cost of dividing attendance revenue ex post (necessary for revenue-sharing), and increasing the uncertainty over film values (at least initially), thus raising the cost of negotiating a mutually acceptable?to producer and exhibitor?lump sum payment. As a result, percent-of-gross pricing replaced flat rental fees. These findings allow additional light to be shed on the reasons for share contracts in general?most previous studies have been limited to an examination a cross-section of contracts.