cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exploiting Architectural Communities in Early Life Cycle Cost Estimation

Abstract System architectures evolve over time. Accordingly, the dynamic properties of architectures reflect how systems respond to change, and this response ultimately impacts cost. In prior work we make an explicit connection between the architectural diagrams of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), parametric cost estimation, and network science. Specifically, by treating the DoD Architecture Framework (DoDAF) Systems View 3 (SV3) as an adjacency matrix, we assess how the addition of a new subsystem to an immature architecture might grow the existing network. With the subsequent application of parametric cost modeling, we translate anticipated growth into expected cost, thereby quantifying the impact of change. This paper refines that approach. In particular, by using the Girvan-Newman algorithm, the SV3 is initially divided into groups of subsystems such that the number of interfaces is dense within and sparse between groups. Based on this division into “architectural communities” and the prevalence of bridging ties, interfaces generated by the addition of a new subsystem can be faithfully integrated into the existing architecture, adding validity to our growth mechanism. This procedure is illustrated in detail with an example that highlights the importance of this refinement, and it is incorporated within a Monte Carlo simulation that allows the distribution of future costs to be estimated and assessed.
HYDROTHERMAL CONVERSION OF ZEOLITES : AN IN SITU SYNCHROTRON X-RAY POWDER DIFFRACTION STUDY

Hydrothermal conversion of zeolite LTA by LiCl(aq) is an efficient synthesis route for zeolite Li-A(BW), LiAlSiO4·H2O, resulting in highly crystalline materials. In the present work hydrothermal cr...
Inflammatory cytokines, vascular function, and hypertension

there is growing interest in the potential role of inflammatory cytokines in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart failure, and hypertension ([7][1], [14][2]–[16][3]). Although the role of cytokines in atherosclerosis is well established, the importance of
Laser optoacoustic tomography of layered tissues: signal processing

Laser optoacoustic imaging experiments in biological tissues in vivo are presented along with the theoretical signal analysis procedure. The laser optoacoustic imaging system (LOIS) can operate in the reflection mode with emphasis on high z-axial (in-depth) resolution (up to 10 - 20 micrometers). Two examples of LOIS applications for non- invasive in vivo medical diagnostics are presented and discussed: (1) characterization of layered structure of port- wine stains, and (2) measurements of skin melanoma thickness. Potential miniaturization of LOIS for endoscopy applications is also discussed. The z-axial profiles of laser-induced pressure were shown to contain diagnostic information on location, dimensions and optical properties of tissue layers. Time-resolved signals detected by piezoelectric transducers were corrected for distortions such as diffraction and acoustic attenuation that occur upon pressure wave propagation in tissue. Wavelet transform applied to signals of laser- induced acoustic emission yielded high contrast pressure profiles with substantial signal-to-noise ratio.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Paranormal Beliefs and Preference for Games of Chance

The Paranormal Belief Scale and six items concerning preference for games of chance were completed by 235 college students. As hypothesized, significant Pearson correlations were found for beliefs in Superstition, Psi, and Precognition with preference for games of chance.
Dimension Groups for Polynomial Odometers

Here we study a class of dynamical systems we call polynomial odometers. These are adic maps on regularly structured Bratteli diagrams and include the Pascal and Stirling adic maps as examples. We describe the dimension groups associated with these systems and use this to study spaces of invariant measures. For many, but not all, the space of invariant measures is affinely homeomorphic to the space of Borel probability measures on a closed interval in $\mathbb{R}$ , we call such polynomial odometers reasonable. We describe the possible isomorphisms between dimension groups for reasonable polynomial odometers, and use this to prove a version of a result of Giordano, Putnam and Skau for this situation. Namely, we show that there is an isomorphism between unital ordered groups associated with two reasonable polynomial odometers if and only if there is a special kind of orbit equivalence between the two.
Molecular characterization of the sex steroid binding protein (SBP) of plasma. Re-examination of rabbit SBP and comparison with the human, macaque and baboon proteins.

Abstract Physico-chemical characterization of the sex steroid-binding protein, SBP, of rabbit plasma reveals that it is a dimer of mol. wt 85,800 composed of similar subunits of mol. wt 43,000. These data confirm our original proposal for a dimeric structure. The protein contains 9% carbohydrate, comprised of mannose, galactose, N -acetylglucosamine and sialic acid. It is devoid of N -acetylgalactosamine and fucose. The protein binds one molecule of 5α-dihydrotestosterone per dimer with a K d of 0.89 nM (12°C). Comparison with the human, monkey and baboon SBPs indicates that all these proteins have the same dimeric molecular organization and exhibit microheterogeneity in SDS-PAGE and isoelectricfocusing. Rabbit SBP, however, contains less carbohydrate and has a higher polypeptide molecular weight than all the other SBPs. Spectrophotometric data also indicate that some tryptophan residues are in a different chemical environment than those in other SBPs. The observed microheterogeneity in all four SBP species is due for the most part to variable glycosylation of the subunit and variability at the amino-terminal region of the subunit. Combination of these and other phenomena will generate a significant number of isomeric forms of the SBP subunit which will then interact stoichiometrically to yield active dimeric SBP molecules. These will differ slightly from each other depending upon the charge and size of the subunit comprising the dimeric structure, and will result in the observed microheterogeneity of pure SBP preparations. Based on these results along with more recent amino acid sequence data, we conclude that all four SBPs are dimers composed of identical polypeptide chains.
A microphone array system for speech recognition

The ultimate speech recognizer cannot use an attached or desk-mounted microphone. Array techniques offer the opportunity to free a talker from microphone incumberance. My goal is to develop algorithms and systems for this purpose.
Isotope Shift in Mg I

The lines of the Mg I spectrum, lying in the visible and in the photographic infrared regions, have been examined and some of them found to show structure. It is pointed out that the structure should be attributed to isotope shift, which, in the case of the 3s3p^1P−3s3d^1D series, owes its origin to the fact that the smd^1D terms, perturbed by the p^2^1D term, have passed on to this term some of their isotope separation, which, in the unperturbed case, would have been the same as that of 3s3p^1P and thus unobservable. This perturbation is discussed in connection with the observed shifts, and it is found possible to correlate the observed shifts with the calculated displacements of the 3smd^1D energy levels produced by the p^2^1D perturbation, with satisfactory agreement. Since the observed patterns show two components, they cannot be attributed to mass effect, which would give three nearly equally spaced components. Furthermore, the shift is in the wrong direction to be accounted for by the usual assumption that heavier isotopes have larger radii, and, consequently, looser binding of electrons than the lighter isotopes.
An Analysis of Diversity in Electronic Commerce Research

This study evaluates the current state of electronic commerce (EC) research by focusing on its diversity. The authors examined 846 EC articles published in six EC specialty journals, 196 in four major IS journals, and 61 in four major marketing journals over the 10 years from 1996 to 2005. The EC specialty and major IS journals show a trend toward multidisciplinary authorship. All three groups of journals display an increasing level of interest in consumer-related issues. The IS and marketing journals prefer mathematical modeling, while the EC specialty journals favor conceptual research. Most important, the major and EC specialty journals play different roles in EC research. EC articles published in the major journals, by and large, display not only more diversified research methods but a growing trend toward economics as a common paradigm. EC specialty journals exhibit great diversity in researchers' backgrounds and units of analysis, expanding and redefining the domain of EC research. The findings summarized in this paper are a roadmap toward better understanding of the dynamics of EC research and for authors seeking to identify the best journal for their EC research.
Last Words: Expression and Quotation in the Works of Luis Camnitzer

This article examines the tensions between expression and expressionlessness in the works of the artist Luis Camnitzer, with special attention to these three works: Selbstbedienung (Self-Service), Patentanmeldung (Patent Application), Uruguayan Torture Series, and Last Words.
Protocol-Driven Ventilator Weaning: Reviewing the Evidence

Though seminal clinical trials have identified efficacious methods of liberating patients from mechanical ventilation (ie, weaning), this knowledge is not applied often by physicians in routine practice. Weaning protocols are a strategies by which research results can be translated effectively and efficiently into clinical practice, but results of clinical trials evaluating weaning protocols have not been uniform, and controversy continues to surround this important area in critical care medicine. This article reviews the rationale for and against the routine use of weaning protocols and highlights informative details of many clinical trials that have evaluated such protocols.
Chloroplasts as Functional Endosymbionts in the Mollusc Tridachia crispata (Bërgh), (Opisthobranchia, Sacoglossa)

THE sacoglossan opisthobranch gastropod Tridachia crispata (Bergh) was reported by Yonge and Nicholas1 to have symbiotic unicellular zooxanthellae (Dinophyceae). It was suggested that there was a functional relationship between the algae and the marine slugs.
Tuning the electronic states of individual Co acceptors in GaAs

Scanning tunneling microscope studies of individual impurities in semiconductors explore challenges associated with future nanoscale electronics and can provide insight into how new materials properties such as ferromagnetic ordering arise from impurity interactions. Atomic manipulation and tunneling spectroscopy were employed to characterize and control the acceptor states of Co atoms substituted for Ga in the GaAs(110) surface. Three states were observed whose appearance in tunneling spectra was sensitive to the tip position within the acceptor complex. The energy of these states did not follow bending of the host bands due to the tip-induced electric field, but did respond to the Coulomb potential of nearby charged defects, such as As vacancies. By applying voltage pulses with the scanning tunneling microscope tip, the vacancies could be positioned on the surface, thus enabling tunable control over the Co acceptor states.
Evaluation of the Psoriasis Transcriptome across Different Studies by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA)

Background: Our objective was to develop a consistent molecular definition of psoriasis. There have been several published microarray studies of psoriasis, and we compared disease-related genes identified across these different studies of psoriasis with our own in order to establish a consensus. Methodology/Principal Findings: We present a psoriasis transcriptome from a group of 15 patients enrolled in a clinical study, and assessed its biological validity using a set of important pathways known to be involved in psoriasis. We also identified a key set of cytokines that are now strongly implicated in driving disease-related pathology, but which are not detected well on gene array platforms and require more sensitive methods to measure mRNA levels in skin tissues. Comparison of our transcriptome with three other published lists of psoriasis genes showed apparent inconsistencies based on the number of overlapping genes. We extended the well-established approach of Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) to compare a new study with these other published list of differentially expressed genes (DEG) in a more comprehensive manner. We applied our method to these three published psoriasis transcriptomes and found them to be in good agreement with our study. Conclusions/Significance: Due to wide variability in clinical protocols, platform and sample handling, and subtle diseaserelated signals, intersection of published DEG lists was unable to establish consensus between studies. In order to leverage the power of multiple transcriptomes reported by several laboratories using different patients and protocols, more sophisticated methods like the extension of GSEA presented here, should be used in order to overcome the shortcomings of overlapping individual DEG approach.
Coriolis interactions and intramolecular vibrational redistribution in jet-cooled pyrimidine

Abstract Evidence is presented which indicate that the second-order Coriolis interaction play an important role in intramolecular vibrational redistribution.
35 Electrogastrography in healthy participants: comparison of children and adults

The current study examined whether electrogastrogram (EGG) patterns differ between children/adolescents and adults, including whether EGG recordings obtained from healthy children would be considered normal by standards established for adults. Twenty-eight healthy children (54% females; ages 8–17, M = 12.4 years) were evaluated and compared to 15 healthy adults. EGGs were recorded for 30 min in the fasting state and for 1 h following a standard meal. For both pediatric and adult participants, there was a significant increase in both the dominant frequency and the dominant power from the pre- to the post – prandial period (p < 0.001 for each). There was a significant post-prandial increase in the %normal slow waves in pediatric participants only (81.5 vs. 89.0% vs. p < 0.001). Children demonstrated a significantly lower mean fasting %normal slow waves (81.5% vs. 94.2%) and a significantly greater fasting % tachygastria (8.9% vs. 2.3%) than did adults. Other parameters did not differ. Using adult standards, the %normal slow waves were ≥70% of recording time in 96% children in the fasting state and in 100% in the postprandial period. A postprandial power increase was seen in 89% of the children. In conclusion, while adults should not be used as controls in pediatric studies of EGG, our data would indicate that American Motility Society (AMS) consensus adult criteria for a normal EGG are appropriate to apply to children and adolescents when utilizing methodology and meal challenge similar to that used to establish the adult norms.
Cyclotomic polynomials and unions of groups

Using factorizations of the polynomial (1?xn)/(1?x) we determine all monoids that are unions of groups, have a nontrivial group of units, and are syntactic monoids of languages generated by finite prefix codes.
Transient linear stability of a Simons-process gas–liquid electrochemical flow reactor using numerical simulations

Abstract A transient mathematical model and a modified linear perturbation analysis are developed to examine the stability of a gas–liquid, parallel-plate electrochemical flow reactor. Dynamic terms are added to our one-dimensional steady-state conservation equations of momentum, continuity, and thermal energy (Drake et al., Ind. Eng. Chem. Res. 40 (2001a), 3117–3116). The stability analysis is applied to a previously unconsidered, relatively general form for dynamic equations. The perturbation analysis method of linearizing a transient mathematical system and solving the resultant eigenvalue differential equations for stability is automated using a numerical algorithm. At the inlet temperature, exit pressure, and liquid feed flow rate considered, our linear perturbation analysis and nonlinear transient simulations demonstrate the stability of some states and instability of others. Steady-state operation below 60 mA / cm 2 average current density proves stable to infinitesimal disturbances. Beyond this production rate, however, a gas–liquid vertical flow regime, called heading flow, occurs in part of the reactor, causing unstable steady states. This flow regime permits a particular coupled flow disturbance to magnify. Namely, a liquid-flow-rate increase with position leads to local depletion of the liquid phase, as required by mass conservation. Then, the depletion of liquid creates a lighter two-phase mixture, further accelerating the fluid. Beyond the short times accessible by nonlinear transient simulation, we speculate that the unstable disturbance results in an oscillatory state or a new high-potential state. Operating conditions for avoiding instability are outlined.
Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation: The View from Applied Anthropology

In working with and researching in communities that have suffered the impacts of disasters or displacement over the last 40 years, I am convinced of the need to link theory to practice in applied anthropology. The trying circumstances faced by people in disasters and displacement, as well as the enormous variation that these millions of people in their diverse contexts represent, test the resilience of real communities, the fundamental constructions we have developed about community, and the theories and methods employed to assist them in recovery. In my work, I have found that it is both appropriate and necessary that theoretical and policy oriented projects be closely linked. If policies and projects related to disasters and displacement are not based on a solid understanding of human behavior in general and cultural behavior specifically, their success in terms of how they respond to human needs is jeopardized. By the same token, policy and practice can form the testing ground for theory. In other word...
Understanding Consolidation through the Architecture of Memories

Following its encoding, a memory undergoes consolidation. It may be possible to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms supporting consolidation by considering the complex architecture of a memory. Any behavior can be split into multiple components. For example, when learning a new skill we simultaneously learn the movement and the goal of that movement. Each of these components has a distinct representation within a memory. The "off-line" processing of each component may follow different rules, providing an explanation for the variety of performance changes supported by consolidation. By viewing a memory as a representation with multiple components, it is possible to bridge the gap between the behavioral changes, which define consolidation, and the biological mechanisms that support those changes. This is partly because different memory components can be mapped onto different neural circuits. With an increased understanding of consolidation, it may become possible to modulate these off-line processes to improve psychiatric and neurological rehabilitation.
A graphical method for comparing trends in series of events

This paper describes a new graphical method for comparing trends in two or more series of events. The method is applicable,e.g., to observations such as the successive times to failure of two or more devices and the arrival times on succeeding days at a service facility. The graphs provide information about the rela-tive trend and can be used to order several series with respect to rates of occurrence of events. The series are assumed independent of one another and are assumed to follow nonhomogeneous Poisson processes with mean functions and rate functions unspeci-fied.
Investigation of Li salt doped succinonitrile as potential solid electrolytes for lithium batteries

Solid ionic conductors with good conductivity at room temperature and mechanical flexibility are very attractive candidates for application as electrolytes for secondary lithium batteries. Plastic crystal electrolytes formed by doping succinonitrile with lithium salts can potentially meet these requirements. In this study, succinonitrile doped with various lithium salts were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, powder X-ray diffraction, conductivity measurements and in electrochemical studies. The much better conductivities and electrochemical performance of certain lithium salts in comparison to the others studied has been found to be correlated to their propensity to form crystalline adducts with succinonitrile at low molar concentrations. Of the lithium salts studied, only two which did not form crystalline adducts at low concentrations: lithium bis-trifluoromethanesulphonylimide (Li[CF3SO2]2N) and lithium tetrafluorborate (LiBF4) had high enough conductivities at ambient temperature for evaluation in lithium cells. Contrary to prior predictions, both showed reasonable capacities, high coulombic efficiencies, and good capacity retention even with metallic lithium as the anode.
Maternal Control and Sensitivity, Child Gender, and Maternal Education in Relation to Children's Behavioral Outcomes in African American Families

Abstract This study examined relationships between mother–child interactions and children's behaviors in 119 urban African American mothers and their 6–7 year old children. Interactions during a cooking task and a follow-up child clean-up task were videotaped. Principal components analyses of behaviors during the cooking task yielded two factors in mothers (Sensitivity and Control), and three in children (Task Involvement, Responsiveness, and Communicative). Children's negativity during a clean up task was coded and mothers were interviewed about their children's problem behaviors. Parenting sensitivity was associated with positive child behaviors and parenting control was associated with negative child behaviors. Maternal education was associated with greater maternal sensitivity and less control. Child gender predicted their task involvement, responsiveness, communicativeness, negativity during clean-up, and behavior problems; maternal control and sensitivity mediated some of these relations. Findings underscore heterogeneity of African American parenting and factors that promote positive parenting and children's behavioral adjustment in early childhood.
3,5-Di-tert-butyl-N-[2-(methyl­sulfan­yl)phen­yl]salicylaldimine

The molecule of the title compound, C22H29NOS, is non-planar, with a dihedral angle of 32.06 (9)° between the two aromatic rings.
Induction of myelin basic protein-specific experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in C57BL/6 mice: Mapping of T cell epitopes and T cell receptor Vβ gene segment usage

Early studies of murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) induced with myelin basic protein (MBP) divide various mouse strains into either “susceptible” or “resistant” phenotypes. Resistance is defined as lack of encephalitogenic responses after active immunization or adoptive transfer. It is now becoming clear that this unresponsiveness is not due to the inability of T cells to recognize MBP in the context of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene products. Using various manipulations, many laboratories are able to induce severe EAE in these strains. We previously reported that a combination of adoptive transfer and subsequent challenge of the recipients with MBP could overcome the resistance in many mouse strains (Shaw et al.: J Neuroimmunol 39:139–150, 1992). This approach now enables us to identify the encephalitogenic epitope and T cell receptor Vβ usage in a prototype strain, C57BL/6 (B6). Pepsin-digested MBP fragments first located a major T cell epitope in a polypeptide containing residues 44–88. Overlapping synthetic peptides narrowed this epitope to p60–80. Truncated peptides from the carboxyl- or amino-terminus further mapped a minimal peptide to p67–76. This encephalitogenic epitope appears to be unique to B6 mice. Independent encephalitogenic T cell clones specific for this epitope were also generated. Of six such clones analyzed, five different TCR Vβ's were found. Whether unbiased usage of encephalitogenic TCR Vβ gene segments in B6 mice is related to its EAE resistant phenotype is not clear at this point. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The past and the future in the study of radiation-induced mutation in the germ-line of mice and humans.

This review article explores the thesis that humans are not as sensitive to the genetic effects of radiation as has generally been projected from the research on mice. The doubling dose extrapolated to humans from the mouse data on acute radiation is usually set at about 0.4 Sv. Based on studies at the Radiation Effects Research Foundation (RERF) of the children born in Japan since the atomic bombings, the author suggests that the gametic doubling dose is about three times greater. He reviews the different methodologies for determining the estimates for mice and for humans, and examines how our present understanding of the genetic risks of radiation for mice and humans can be improved. He comments that if the genetic risks of radiation for humans really do differ by a factor of 3 from those projected in the past, this has important implications for legislation, regulation, and litigation and basic radiotherapy.
An NADH coupled assay system for galactose oxidase

Abstract A galactose oxidase (EC 1.1.3.9); NADH-peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.1) coupled assay system is used for the estimation of galactose oxidase activity. Spectrophotometric measurement of NADH consumption yields direct quantitative value of enzymic activity or can be used for the end-point determination of the amount of galactose oxidase substrate present in test solutions. Use of similar coupled systems is suggested for the assay of other H 2 O 2 -producing enzymes and their substrates.
Optimizing high efficient plasma immersion ion implantation hydrogenation for poly-Si thin film transistors

An Inductively-Coupled Plasma (ICP) source was used for defect passivation in polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si) Thin Film Transistors (TFTs) using Plasma Immersion Ion Implantation (PIII) hydrogenation. Because ICP source has higher ion density and lower working pressure, an optimal PIII hydrogenation process with low voltage (−2 kV) and high frequency (16.7 kHz) pulse has been performed. Process simulation indicates that a very high dose rate (∼ 1016/cm2 s) can be delivered to the substrate. The improvement of device parameters saturates in 4 min with damage free and better device reliability.
Expression of Nodal, Lefty-A, and Lefty-B in Undifferentiated Human Embryonic Stem Cells Requires Activation of Smad2/3

Human embryonic stem cells will remain undifferentiated or undergo differentiation when grown in conditioned or non-conditioned medium, respectively. The factors and signaling events that control the maintenance of the undifferentiated state are not well characterized and their identification is of major importance. Based on the data from global expression analyses, we set out to identify genes and the signaling pathways controlling them that are regulated in the early phase of the differentiation process. This study shows that nodal and the inhibitors of Nodal signaling, lefty-A and lefty-B, are down-regulated very early upon differentiation. High expression of these genes in undifferentiated cells is maintained by activation of the transcription factor Smad2/3, downstream of the activin-linked kinases (ALK) 4/5/7. Treatment of differentiating cells with Activin A leads to activation of Smad2/3 and expression of nodal, lefty-A and lefty-B, while inhibition of ALK4/5/7 by the kinase inhibitor SB-431542 blocks activation of Smad2/3 and expression of these genes in the undifferentiated state. In addition, when cells are maintained undifferentiated by treatment with the GSK3-inhibitor, BIO, high expression of nodal, lefty-A, and lefty-B also requires activation of ALK4/5/7. Conversely, BMP signaling leading to Smad1/5/8 activation via ALK2/3/6 is blocked in undifferentiated cells and becomes activated upon differentiation. Taken together, these observations establish that Smad2/3 is activated in undifferentiated hESCs and required for the expression of genes controlling Nodal signaling. Moreover, there appears to be cross-talk between inhibition of GSK3, a hallmark of Wnt signaling and the Activin/Nodal pathway.
Measurement of serum 7α-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one (or 7αC4), a surrogate test for bile acid malabsorption in health, ileal disease and irritable bowel syndrome using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Bile acid malabsorption (BAM) is reported in up to 50% of patients with functional diarrhoea and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea (IBS-D). Serum 7alpha-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one (7alphaHCO or 7alphaC4), an indirect measurement of hepatic bile acid synthesis, has been validated as a measurement of BAM relative to the (75)SeHCAT retention test. Our aim was to develop a serum 7alphaC4 assay, normal values, and compare results from healthy controls, patients with ileal Crohn's disease or resection, and patients with IBS-D or IBS with constipation (IBS-C). Stored serum samples were used from adult men and women in the following groups: 111 normal healthy controls, 15 IBS-D, 15 IBS-C, 24 with distal ileal Crohn's disease and 20 with distal ileal resection for Crohn's disease. We adapted a published high pressure liquid chromatography, tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) assay. The HPLC-MS/MS assay showed good linearity in concentration range 0-200 ng mL(-1), sensitivity (lowest limit of detection 0.04 ng mL(-1)), and high analytical recovery (average 99%, range 93-107%). The 5th to 95th percentile for 111 normal healthy controls was 6-60.7 ng mL(-1). There were significant overall group differences (anovaon ranks, P < 0.001), with significantly higher values for terminal ileal disease or resection. There were significant differences between health and IBS (anova, P = 0.043) with higher mean values in IBS-D relative to controls (rank sum test, P = 0.027). We have established a sensitive non-isotopic assay based on HPLC-MS/MS, determined normal 7alphaC4 values, and identified increased 7alphaC4 in IBS-D and in distal ileal resection and disease. This assay has potential as a non-invasive test for BAM in IBS.
Validation of a Nonrigid Registration Error Detection Algorithm Using Clinical MRI Brain Data

Identification of error in nonrigid registration is a critical problem in the medical image processing community. We recently proposed an algorithm that we call “Assessing Quality Using Image Registration Circuits” (AQUIRC) to identify nonrigid registration errors and have tested its performance using simulated cases. In this paper, we extend our previous work to assess AQUIRC's ability to detect local nonrigid registration errors and validate it quantitatively at specific clinical landmarks, namely the anterior commissure and the posterior commissure. To test our approach on a representative range of error we utilize five different registration methods and use 100 target images and nine atlas images. Our results show that AQUIRC's measure of registration quality correlates with the true target registration error (TRE) at these selected landmarks with an ${\rm R}^{2}=0.542$ . To compare our method to a more conventional approach, we compute local normalized correlation coefficient (LNCC) and show that AQUIRC performs similarly. However, a multi-linear regression performed with both AQUIRC's measure and LNCC shows a higher correlation with TRE than correlations obtained with either measure alone, thus showing the complementarity of these quality measures. We conclude the paper by showing that the AQUIRC algorithm can be used to reduce registration errors for all five algorithms.
Characterization of Low-Barrier Hydrogen Bonds. 1. Microsolvation Effects. An ab Initio and DFT Investigation

Hartree−Fock, Moller−Plesset, and DFT calculations have been carried out using the 6-31++G** basis set to study the effect of microsolvation on the strength of a typical low-barrier hydrogen bond. In the gas phase, the hydrogen bond formed between a formic acid molecule and a formate anion is approximately 25 kcal/mol, with a calculated energy barrier for proton transfer from the formic acid to the formate anion which is lower than the zero point vibrational energy resonant in the system. When both the formic acid and formate anion are microsolvated, by one water molecule each, the resulting hydrogen bond is actually increased in strength slightly. When the microsolvation is asymmetrical, however, so as to cause a mismatch in the pKa values of the hydrogen bond donor and hydrogen bond acceptor, the resulting H-bond is weakened by approximately 4 kcal/mol. These results suggest that small amounts of interstitial water in enzyme active sites may not preclude the existence or importance of low-barrier hydrog...
Social Skill and Institutional Theory

The problem of the role of actors in institutional theory can be addressed in considering a model of institutional entrepreneurship. A sociological posing of this question defines institutional ent...
Parallelization of a level set method for simulating dendritic growth

Processor virtualization is a parallelization technique that may be used to enhance the performance of parallel applications through the improvement of cache performance, overlapping of communication and computation. In this study, we use the processor virtualization technique to parallelize the level set method for solving solidification problems. Numerical results on a distributed memory machine are reported to show the performance of the resulting level set solver, and demonstrate the advantages of using processor virtualization.
Where Is the SSC Today

The SSC is a high luminosity pp collider designed to achieve 40 TeV in the center of mass. Depending on the final magnetic field chosen the main ring will be between 90 and 165 km in circumference. Construction of the SSC has been recommended to the DOE by HEPAP for completion in the early 1990's. The Universities Research Association has been designated by the DOE to do R/D and prepare a design proposal, construction plan and cost estimate. Model magnets are being tested and a field level will be chosen before October 1985. A design proposal will be submitted in April 1986.
Maternal and fetal Toll-like receptor 4 genotype and chorionic plate inflammatory lesions.

Objective The objective of the study was to explore the relation between maternal and fetal genetic variation in Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and chorionic plate inflammation Study Design In this prospective observational cohort of 109 women with singleton gestations, 13 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped in the TLR4 gene. The diagnosis of chorionic plate inflammation was made by a single blinded perinatal pathologist. Results After adjustment for multiple comparisons, 1 maternal SNP (rs10759932) and 1 fetal SNP (rs1554973) in the TLR4 gene demonstrated highly significant association with chorionic plate inflammation. After adjustment for race, smoking, and bacterial vaginosis, carriage of these alleles was associated with chorionic plate inflammation (maternal rs1554973: odds ratio [OR] 5.2, 95% confidence interval, 3.2-6.4, P = .006; fetal rs10759932: OR 4.95, 95% confidence interval, 3.0-5.6, P = .005). There was no evidence of interaction between these 2 SNPs. Conclusion Maternal and fetal genetic variation in TLR4 is strongly associated with chorionic plate inflammation. This maternal and fetal genotypic effect are independent of each other as well as other environmental covariates.
Convergence results on adaptive approximate filtering

We present an IIR filtering technique based upon a recently proposed approach for reducing power consumption in implementation of frequency-selective filters. The basic idea in such techniques is to utilize the most recent input and output signal samples to estimate the current SNR (defined as the ratio of the in-band signal power to the out-of-band signal power) at the filter's input. This estimated input SNR is then used to update the filter order to the minimum value which would guarantee a minimum tolerable SNR at the filter's output. A key issue addressed in this paper is how well the estimated filter order converges to the theoretical minimum for situations satisfying the assumptions behind the derivation of the technique. Experimental results are used to verify that convergence to the correct filter order depends (1) upon the number of input and output samples used for estimating the input SNR, (2) upon the filter order applied in generating the output samples that are used in estimating the input SNR and (3) upon the proximity of the actual input SNR to boundaries in the input-SNR space corresponding to changes in the optimal choice for filter order.
Effects of Alterations in the Activity of Tuberohypophysial Dopaminergic Neurons on the Secretion of α-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone

Administration of gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), an anesthetic which reduces dopaminergic neuronal activity, decreased the concentration of the dopamine (DA) metabolite 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland, and increased alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha MSH) concentrations in the serum of male rats. Bilateral electrical stimulation of the rostral arcuate nucleus, which contains perikarya of tuberohypophysial DA neurons, increased DOPAC concentrations in the intermediate lobe and decreased alpha MSH concentrations in the serum of GBL-anesthetized rats. Administration of the DA antagonist haloperidol prevented the decline in serum alpha MSH levels following arcuate nucleus stimulation, but had no effect on serum alpha MSH concentrations in sham-stimulated GBL-treated rats. These results indicate that GBL-induced decreases or stimulation-induced increases in the activity of tuberohypophysial DA neurons are accompanied by corresponding changes in the metabolism of DA in the intermediate lobe of the rat pituitary gland, and by reciprocal changes in the secretion of alpha MSH.
Zeolite a for selective calcium removal from brackish water

Abstract Plans are being transformed into practice to facilitate the disposal of very large volumes of high-salinity, high-sulfate agricultural drainage water in California by subjecting it to reverse-osmosis treatment, resulting in a concentrated and a fresh-water stream. Calcium removal to prevent calcium sulfate scaling at the membranes is required as a pretreatment, and is intended to be accomplished with a standard cation-exchange resin. The present study utilizes published three-component equilibrium data for zeolite A to show that, with local-equilibrium performance, a zeolite bed would remove only little magnesium, the removal of which is not required, and thus make additional capacity available for calcium. The results of column experiments at various flow rates have confirmed this finding and permitted a preliminary economic comparison of calcium removal by zeolite with that by a standard ion-exchange resin. Although the resin exhibits a favorable three-to-one margin over zeolite cost, this margin is narrow enough to leave open the possibility of sufficiently improving the economic attractiveness of the zeolite by suitable modifications in its preparation (affecting, for example, particle configuration and binder material), and acceptance of a lower and less expensive grade, to the point of competitiveness, or beyond.
Three dimensional imaging of a molten-salt-extracted plutonium button using both active and passive gamma-ray computed tomography

Abstract We are developing a new technique using both active (A) and passive (P) computed tomography (CT) to overcome problems in the quantitative analysis of plutonium contents in the molten salt extract (MSE) plutonium buttons. Our first three dimensional image of the MSE button using ACT scan has already shown heterogeneous behavior throughout the button as opposed to the model of a homogeneous button as previously thought. An image from a PCT scan, although it does not have sufficient spatial resolution and data, also seems to support the heterogeneous picture.
Capsule commentary on Lachs et al., verbal and physical aggression directed at nursing home staff by residents.

Lachs focuses on a critical yet highly underreported, understudied area of long-term care medicine, resident aggression towards long-term care (LTC) staff.1 While aggression is common, with up to 82 % of caregivers exposed to aggressive behaviors over a 12 month period,2 the current culture in many LTC facilities is ambivalence, “it's just part of the job.”3 However, OSHA rebukes violence against health care staff and has guidelines to help protect LTC employees.4 Previous studies have shown that the majority of aggression is verbal in nature (76.5 %), followed by physical (54 %)2; the consequences for LTC staff can include sadness, anxiety, anger, fear, apathy, and self-blame.3 From a facilities perspective, resident against staff aggression creates a dangerous work environment with decreased productivity, increased worker’s compensation claims, caregiver burnout, absenteeism, staff turnover and the risk for litigation.3 Lachs found rates of aggression similar to previous studies,2,3 and that aggression was more likely among patients with greater disordered behavior, affective disturbances, and the need for assistance with morning activities of daily living.1 Other studies found that factors associated with physical aggression include male sex, cognitive impairment, insomnia, psychological distress, physical restraints, and neuroleptic medication use.5 Staff characteristics that increased exposure to resident aggression include younger age, female gender, lower educational attainment, and higher personal confidence in managing physical aggression.2 One consistent theme throughout the literature is that episodes of aggression are more likely during assistance with activities of daily living. It is vital to LTC staff that their right to a safe work environment is valued and protected. It cannot be accepted as “part of the job.” Moreover, a safer work environment may lead to the provision of higher quality care for several reasons, including increased staff retention, answering call lights more promptly and spending extra time with residents if they do not fear exposure to aggressive behaviors.3 Given how common aggressive behaviors are and an emerging literature identifying patient and provider risk factors, further research is required to develop evidence-based strategies to reduce and manage aggressive behaviors by residents towards staff.
Conformational gating of dimannose binding to the antiviral protein cyanovirin revealed from the crystal structure at 1.35 Å resolution

Cyanovirin (CV-N) is a small lectin with potent HIV neutralization activity, which could be exploited for a mucosal defense against HIV infection. The wild-type (wt) protein binds with high affinity to mannose-rich oligosaccharides on the surface of gp120 through two quasi-symmetric sites, located in domains A and B. We recently reported on a mutant of CV-N that contained a single functional mannose-binding site, domain B, showing that multivalent binding to oligomannosides is necessary for antiviral activity. The structure of the complex with dimannose determined at 1.8 A resolution revealed a different conformation of the binding site than previously observed in the NMR structure of wt CV-N. Here, we present the 1.35 A resolution structure of the complex, which traps three different binding conformations of the site and provides experimental support for a locking and gating mechanism in the nanoscale time regime observed by molecular dynamics simulations.
Relationship Contingency and Sexual Motivation in Women: Implications for Sexual Satisfaction

Deriving self-worth from romantic relationships (relationship contingency) may have implications for women’s sexual motives in relationships. Because relationship contingency enhances motivation to sustain relationships to maintain positive self-worth, relationship contingent women may engage in sex to maintain and enhance their relationships (relational sex motives). Using structural equation modeling on Internet survey data from a convenience sample of 462 women in heterosexual and lesbian relationships, we found that greater relationship contingency predicted greater relational sex motives, which simultaneously predicted both sexual satisfaction and dissatisfaction via two distinct motivational states. Having sex to improve intimacy with one’s partner was associated with greater sexual satisfaction and autonomy, while having sex to earn partner’s approval was associated with sexual dissatisfaction and inhibition. While some differences exist between lesbian and heterosexual relationships, relationship contingency had sexual costs and benefits, regardless of relationship type.
Predation by Small Walleyes on Yellow Perch: Effects of Prey Size Distribution

Abstract I examined size-selective predation by small (159–239 mm, total length, TL) piscivorous walleyes Stizostedion vitreum feeding on three sizes of yellow perch Perca flavescens. The size distributions were presented in three experiments with yellow perch size standardized to walleye size by using prey/predator TL ratios (PPTLRs). Experiment 1 included PPTLRs of 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4; experiment 2 included PPTLRs of 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5; experiment 3 included PPTLRs of 0.4, 0.5, and 0.6. Attack and consumption rates did not differ among prey sizes in experiment 1, but they were greater on small prey in experiments 2 and 3. For prey sizes common to more than one experiment (PPTLRs 0.3, 0.4, 0.5), selectivity was experiment-dependent. There was increased selection for a specific prey size as it became relatively smaller compared with the sizes of alternative yellow perch. Active selection, as measured by attack rate, was an important contributor to patterns of yellow perch consumption by walleyes.
Knowledge of the Adenomatous Polyposis Coli Gene and its Clinical Application

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is one of the most clearly defined and well understood of the inherited colorectal cancer syndromes. It is an autosomal dominant condition with high (> 90%) penetrance. Clinically, it is characterized by multiple (> 100) adenomatous polyps in the colon and rectum; variant features in addition to the colonic polyps may include polyps in the upper gastrointestinal tract and other extracolonic manifestations. Since the risk of colorectal cancer in untreated FAP is virtually 100%, screening and intervention for at-risk persons has consisted of annual colon examinations by endoscopy beginning around puberty. The objective of this regimen is early detection of colonic polyps in those who have FAP, followed by preventive colectomy. Because of recent findings that most cases of FAP are due to mutations of the adenomatous polyposis coli gene at chromosome 5q21, genetic testing will probably be incorporated as the first step in the management of individuals at risk for this condition, and screening regimens can be modified. Genetic counselling about the consequences of presymptomatic gene testing is an important component of this process.
The NEEShub Cyberinfrastructure for Earthquake Engineering

The US Network for Earthquake Engineering Simulation (NEES) operates a shared network of civil engineering experimental facilities aimed at facilitating research on mitigating earthquake damage and loss of life. The NEEShub gateway was created in response to the NEES community's needs, combining data, simulation, and analysis functionality with collaboration tools.