cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stepwise iterative calibration of a multi-species phytoplankton-zooplankton simulation model using laboratory data

Abstract A multi-species phytoplankton-zooplankton simulation model was rigorously calibrated using laboratory data. The model is a system of ordinary differential equations describing the dynamics of eight functional groups of phytoplankton, seven groups of zooplankton, and nitrogen and phosphorus forms. Processes represented in the model include nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, respiration, excretion, egestion, mortality, and nutrient recycling. A stepwise iterative calibration procedure was used with data from laboratory experiments involving various combinations of biota mixes and two initial nutrient concentrations. Calibration proceeded in four steps: (1) calibration of five of the eight phytoplankton groups to single and paired species experiments performed under both initial nutrient concentrations, (2) calibration of the remaining phytoplankton groups to single-species growth experiments and to an ‘ungrazed’ experiment (all phytoplankton without zooplankton), and (3 and 4) calibration of the zooplankton and nutrient recycling portions of the model to data from a full microcosm experiment (all phytoplankton and zooplankton together). Two constraints were imposed during calibration: (1) at each step, values of parameters determined during previous steps were not allowed to be varied from their calibrated values, and (2) a single set of parameter values had to be found for each functional group that provided satisfactory fits to all experiments involving that functional group. Based on both graphical comparisons and statistical goodness-of-fit measures, satisfactory model fits to data were obtained. The importance of representing intracellular nutrient pools for phytoplankton and size structure for zooplankton are demonstrated, and the benefits and drawbacks of using data from controlled laboratory and field systems for model development and calibration are discussed.
Square integrable representations and nilmanifolds

Let N be a connected, simply connected nilpotent Lie group with center Z. Let U be an irreducible representation of N. Let v and w be vectors. U is said to be square integrable iff the function x → ¦(U(x) v, w)¦ (which is constant on cosets of Z) is square integrable modulo Z. If K is the kernel of U, U is said to be square integrable modulo its kernel iff the representation of K0βN defined by U is square integrable. (K0 = component of e). Let π be a uniform subgroup.
1198 ENDOGENOUS GLUCAGON FAILS TO INDUCE HEPATIC PHOSPHO ENOLPYRUVATE CARBOXYKINASE (PEPCK) IN NEWBORN GROWTH RETARDED RATS

1198 ENDOGENOUS GLUCAGON FAILS TO INDUCE HEPATIC PHOSPHO ENOLPYRUVATE CARBOXYKINASE (PEPCK) IN NEWBORN GROWTH RETARDED RATS
Studies on the competition of polyene antibiotics for sterols.

The fractional change in the corrected fluorescence of pimaricin or filipin in the presence of a limiting amount of sterol and a competing polyene antibiotic has been used to estimate the relative affinity of amphotericin B, nystatin, filipin, and pimaricin for stigmasterol and for cholesterol. The relative affinities for cholesterol were filipin>amphotericin B>pimaricin >nystatin, while the relative affinities for stigmasterol were filipin>pimaricin>amphotericin B>nystatin. The data indicate that pimaricin and filipin can both interact simultaneously with about 30% of the cholesterol or stigmasterol. However, the stoichiometry of filipin and pimaricin alone for cholesterol and for stigmasterol in dilute aqueous solutions is 1 : 1. Inthe experiments which indicated both pimaricin and filipin interact with the same sterol molecule changes in corrected fluorescence and the absorbance spectra were monitored; and these criteria indicated that both pimaricin and filipin had interacted with the sterols. Light-scattering measurements indicate large aggregates were not formed. Although the data shows in dilute aqueous solutions the stoichiometry of filipin and/or pimaricin for sterols is 1 : 1, in more complex solutions, other combinations or interactions are indicated especially forpimaricin.
Mass extremum effect on the cyclotron resonance line shape in gallium

Abstract Chambers type cyclotron resonance line shapes are observed at 4.2°K and 35 Gc in gallium at the maximum and minimum m ∗ . The characteristic asymmetrical line shapes are compared with Chambers' theory and the relaxation time is evaluated.
Realigning Organizational Culture, Resources, and Community Roles: Changeover to Community Employment

Although adults with severe mental retardation were one of the primary target groups intended to benefit from supported employment when it first emerged, the vast majority continue to be served in ...
Air flow sensing using micro-wire-bonded hair-like hot-wire anemometry

We introduce a novel, low-cost and high-performance hot-wire air flow sensor which utilizes a bond-wire as the sensing element. Standard wire-bonding methods are used to form the hot-wire sensor, similar to those used in post-process integrated circuit (IC) packaging, so sensor fabrication is IC-compatible. The bond-wire extends above the surface of the substrate, saving the valuable chip area and allowing the formation of dense arrays of sensors for this and other applications such as inertial sensors. This hair-like hot-wire anemometer offers high accuracy, high sensitivity and wide dynamic range. Fabricated aluminum and platinum wire flow sensors have a measurement range from 1 cm s−1 to 17.5 m s−1, with an accuracy of 0.06% (platinum wire, 3.3 V) in the low flow regime ( 2 m s−1).
Experimentelle Untersuchungen zur Gemischverdampfung und -kondensation an Rippenrohrbündelwärmeübertragern

Im Rahmen des Forschungsprojekts !nnovA wird der Einsatz von Rippenrohren bei der Verdampfung und Kondensation von Gemischen experimentell erforscht. Das Ziel dabei ist die Bewertung von innovativen Apparaten aus industriellen Produktionsprozessen sowie die Bereitstellung von experimentell abgesicherten Dimensionierungsgrundlagen. Im Laufe dieses Projektes wurden zunachst bei Hochschulen Laboruntersuchungen an Einzelrohren mit glatter und berippter Oberflache durchgefuhrt. Zur Sicherstellung der geometrischen Ubertragbarkeit der Laborergebnisse fur die verfahrenstechnische Anwendung wurden bei der Fa. Linde Technikumsversuche an zwei Rohrbundelwarmeubertragern, wie sie auch in industriellen Anlagen zum Einsatz kommen, durchgefuhrt: zum einen ein Kesselverdampfer und zum anderen ein liegender Verflussiger, beide mit niederberippten Stahlrohren GEWA K-30 der Fa. Wieland. Als Arbeitsmittel wurde zunachst reines n-Pentan eingesetzt. Im Anschluss darauf wurde das binare Kohlewasserstoffgemisch n-Pentan/iso-Octan bei einer Ausgangszusammensetzung von 80mol% n-Pentan eingesetzt. Die Versuche wurden bei Drucken von ca. 1,4 bis 5,2 bar und bei Temperaturen von 40 °C bis 100 °C durchgefuhrt. Der Lastbereich wurde dabei von 40 bis 280 kW variiert, die entsprechende Flachenbelastung betrug ca. 4 bis 30 kW pro m glatte Ausenflache. Der Schwerpunkt der Scale-up-Untersuchungen lag auf dem Einfluss von Anreicherungsprozessen auf den Warmeubergang. Um die produktseitige Temperatur innerhalb der Apparate zu erfassen, wurde eine faseroptische Temperaturmessung mittels Lichtwellenleitern aus Quarzglas eingesetzt. In den Versuchen mit dem Gemisch n-Pentan/i-Octan zeigte sich eine Konzentrationsverschiebung in axialer Richtung bei beiden Apparaten. Im Kesselverdampfer trotz interner Umwalzung reicherte sich die Flussigkeit entlang der Verdampfungsstrecke mit Schwersiedenden an. Im Kondensator reicherte sich der Dampf entlang der Kondensationsstrecke mit Leichtsiedenden an. Die lokal unterschiedlichen Flussigkeitsund Dampfzusammensetzungen fuhrten jeweils zu einer Verringerung der zur Verfugung stehenden treibenden Temperaturdifferenz in axialer Richtung und somit zu einer im Vergleich zu den Versuchen mit dem Reinstoff n-Pentan deutlichen Verringerung der Apparateleistung. Bei den Laboruntersuchungen am Einzelrohr traten derartige Anreicherungsprozesse entlang der Heizflache nicht auf. Das bedeutet wichtige Erkenntnisse fur die Validierung der Ubertragbarkeit vom Laborauf industriellen Masstab.
Valuing Operational Flexibility Under Exchange Rate Risk

In this paper, we develop a stochastic dynamic programming formulation for the valuation of global manufacturing strategy options with switching costs. Overall, we adopt a hierarchical approach. First, exchange rates are modeled as stochastic diffusion processes that exhibit intercountry correlation. Second, the firm's global manufacturing strategy determines options for alternative product designs as well as supply chain network designs. Product options introduce international supply flexibility. Supply chain network options determine the firm's manufacturing flexibility through production capacity and supply chain network linkages. Third, switching costs determine the cost of operational hedging, i.e., the costs associated with reducing downside risks. Overall, the firm maximizes its expected, discounted, global, after-tax value through the exercise of product and supply chain network options and/or through exploitation of operational flexibility contingent on exchange rate realizations. In this environment, the firm must trade off fixed operating costs, switching costs, and the economic benefits derived from exploiting differentials in factor costs and corporate tax rates. A multinomial approximation of correlated exchange rate processes is proposed that leads to a consistent and tractable lattice model for this compound option valuation problem. We then demonstrate how the global manufacturing strategy planning model framework can be utilized to analyze financial and operational hedging strategies.
Radiation dose reduction at a price: the effectiveness of a male gonadal shield during helical CT scans

It is estimated that 60 million computed tomography (CT) scans were performed during 2006, with approximately 11% of those performed on children age 0–15 years. Various types of gonadal shielding have been evaluated for reducing exposure to the gonads. The purpose of this study was to quantify the radiation dose reduction to the gonads and its effect on image quality when a wrap-around male pediatric gonad shield was used during CT scanning. This information is obtained to assist the attending radiologist in the decision to utilize such male gonadal shields in pediatric imaging practice. The dose reduction to the gonads was measured for both direct radiation and for indirect scattered radiation from the abdomen. A 6 cm3 ion chamber (Model 10X5-6, Radcal Corporation, Monrovia, CA) was placed on a Humanoid real bone pelvic phantom at a position of the male gonads. When exposure measurements with shielding were made, a 1 mm lead wrap-around gonadal shield was placed around the ion chamber sensitive volume. The use of the shields reduced scatter dose to the gonads by a factor of about 2 with no appreciable loss of image quality. The shields reduced the direct beam dose by a factor of about 35 at the expense of extremely poor CT image quality due to severe streak artifacts. Images in the direct exposure case are not useful due to these severe artifacts and the difficulties in positioning these shields on patients in the scatter exposure case may not be warranted by the small absolute reduction in scatter dose unless it is expected that the patient will be subjected to numerous future CT scans.
Finite element methods for fully nonlinear second order PDEs based on a discrete Hessian with applications to the Monge-Ampère equation

The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, we modify a method due to Lakkis and Pryer where the notion of a discrete Hessian is introduced to compute fully nonlinear second order PDEs. The discrete Hessian used in our approach is entirely local, making the resulting linear system within the Newton iteration much easier to solve. The second contribution of this paper is to analyze both Lakkis and Pryer's method and its modification in parallel applied to the two-dimensional Monge-Ampere equation. In both cases we show the well-posedness of the methods as well as derive optimal error estimates. Numerical experiments are presented which (i) back up the theoretical findings and (ii) indicate that the methods are able to capture weak (viscosity) solutions.
An analysis of the clone size distribution of ΦX174 mutants and recombinants

In a quasi-single-burst experiment the clone size distribution of the number of wild-type bacteriophage ΦX174 appearing after a single cycle of growth of ΦX amber mutants in the permissive host Escherichia coli CR34/C416 was determined by plating on the nonpermissive host E. coli C. The distribution of revertant phage (mutants) was almost random, not clonal as found for T2. This result is consistent with a theory that the progeny single-stranded DNA molecules are synthesized off one or a few templates in a “stamping machine” fashion; however, other explanations for the random distribution are not excluded. The distribution of recombinants approximates a clonal distribution like the distribution of recombinants between loosely linked markers of T4. This result can perhaps be considered to indicate a geometric replication process; however, it is argued that the distribution is also explainable by the stamping machine model for ΦX replication.
An Efficient Quasigroup Block Cipher

Low powered devices, such as smart phones, tablets and sensors, present a particular challenge for advanced encryption systems. In this paper, we present a new quasigroup block encryption system that has low memory and computational requirements and hence suitable for low powered devices. We compare its performance against Advanced Encryption Standard-256 (AES-256) bit algorithm using the NIST statistical test suite (NIST-STS). Since it is well known that a good encryption algorithm must destroy any statistical properties of the input sequence and produce output close to a true random sequence, the NIST-STS suite results provide us a good test bench. In almost all tests from the suite, the proposed algorithm performs better than AES-256.
Polymorphism in Molecular Solids: An Extraordinary System of Red, Orange, and Yellow Crystals

Diamond and graphite are polymorphs of each other: they have the same composition but different structures and properties. Many other substances exhibit polymorphism: inorganic and organic, natural and manmade. Polymorphs are encountered in studies of crystallization, phase transition, materials synthesis, and biomineralization and in the manufacture of specialty chemicals. Polymorphs can provide valuable insights into crystal packing and structure-property relationships. 5-Methyl-2-[(2-nitrophenyl)amino]-3-thiophenecarbonitrile, known as ROY for its red, orange, and yellow crystals, has seven polymorphs with solved structures, the largest number in the Cambridge Structural Database. First synthesized by medicinal chemists, ROY has attracted attention from solid-state chemists because it demonstrates the remarkable diversity possible in organic solids. Many structures of ROY polymorphs and their thermodynamic properties are known, making ROY an important model system for testing computational models. Though not the most polymorphic substance on record, ROY is extraordinary in that many of its polymorphs can crystallize simultaneously from the same liquid and are kinetically stable under the same conditions. Studies of ROY polymorphs have revealed a new crystallization mechanism that invalidates the common view that nucleation defines the polymorph of crystallization. A slow-nucleating polymorph can still dominate the product if it grows rapidly and nucleates on another polymorph. Studies of ROY have also helped understand a new, surprisingly fast mode of crystal growth in organic liquids cooled to the glass transition temperature. This growth mode exists only for those polymorphs that have more isotropic, and perhaps more liquid-like, packing. The rich polymorphism of ROY results from a combination of favorable thermodynamics and kinetics. Not only must there be many polymorphs of comparable energies or free energies, many polymorphs must be kinetically stable and crystallize at comparable rates to be observed. This system demonstrates the unique insights that polymorphism provides into solid-state structures and properties, as well as the inadequacy of our current understanding of the phenomenon. Despite many studies of ROY, it is still impossible to predict the next molecule that is equally or more polymorphic. ROY is a lucky gift from medicinal chemists.
Subacute encephalopathy and seizures in alcoholics (SESA) presenting with non-convulsive status epilepticus

Subacute encephalopathy with seizures in chronic alcoholism (SESA) was first described in 1981 by Niedermeyer who reported alcoholic patients presenting with confusion, seizures and focal neurological deficits and is quite distinct from patients presenting with typical alcohol withdrawal seizures. EEG often reveals periodic discharges and spikes, but SESA presenting with non-convulsive status epilepticus has rarely been described. We report a case of SESA with non-convulsive status epilepticus in a patient who was initially suspected of having a typical alcohol withdrawal seizure. A 61 year old woman with a history of chronic alcoholism was admitted at an outside hospital for confusion thought to be secondary to an alcohol withdrawal seizure. She had right hemiparesis and later developed right facial twitching that did not respond to intravenous fosphenytoin and levetiracetam. She was transferred for further management. Upon arrival, lorazepam and fosphenytoin were given and right face clonic movements resolved. However, continuous EEG monitoring revealed ongoing non-convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE). Following treatment with IV valproate and lacosamide, there was resolution of NCSE. SESA is likely an under recognized clinical syndrome that is quite distinct from typical alcohol withdrawal seizures and requires a different diagnostic and management approach. NCSE is likely to account for the encephalopathy and focal neurological deficits seen in patients presenting with the clinical syndrome of SESA. Therefore, a high degree of suspicion is warranted and continuous EEG monitoring is recommended for alcoholic patients with encephalopathy and focal neurological deficits.
Ontogeny of early event memory: III. Attentional determinants of retrieval at 2 and 3 months

Abstract Two-month-olds forget more rapidly than identically trained 3-month-olds, but the reason for this is not understood. In two studies, we tested the hypothesis that this retention difference reflects an ontogenetic difference in the pattern of visual attention that selectively reduces the number of potential retrieval cues likely to be sampled by the younger infants in visual learning tasks. In Experiment 1, we sought to alleviate the retention deficit of 2-month-olds by altering the spatial distribution of retrieval cues in the stimulus array and by providing serial access to environmental stimuli known to cue retrieval at 3 months. When the distribution of visual information in the stimulus array maximized the probability that potential retrieval cues would be detected without repeated gaze-shifting, 2-month-olds exhibited perfect 24-hour retention; otherwise, they exhibited no retention, whether their environmental context was highly distinctive or not. In Experiment 2, identically trained 3-month-olds exhibited excellent 24-hour retention irrespective of either the distribution of stimulus information or the distinctiveness of their training context. These data suggest that 2-month-olds' poorer retention results from a leaner memory representation of the training event. This stems not from slower encoding of potential retrieval cues that they have detected but from their failure to detect as many potential retrieval cues in a spatially distributed visual array as older infants within a limited period of time.
Location of divalent ion sites in acyl carrier protein using relaxation perturbed 2D NMR.

Abstract The T1-accordion COSY experiment has been applied to acyl carrier protein (ACP) to locate the divalent ion binding sites in the protein using the paramagnetic ion, Mn2+, as a substitute for Ca2+. Replacement with Mn2+ leads to an enhancement of proton spin-lattice (T1) relaxation rates. These enhancements have a l/r6, distance dependence that makes them extremely useful in structural analyses. Ion-proton distances ranging from 3.0 to 9.0 A have been obtained from this experiment and subsequently used as constraints in the molecular mechanics module of AMBER to refine a protein structure.
Peroxisome Proliferation-Activated Receptor δ Agonist GW0742 Interacts Weakly with Multiple Nuclear Receptors, Including the Vitamin D Receptor

A high-throughput screening campaign was conducted to identify small molecules with the ability to inhibit the interaction between the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and steroid receptor coactivator 2. These inhibitors represent novel molecular probes for modulating gene regulation mediated by VDR. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) δ agonist GW0742 was among the identified VDR-coactivator inhibitors and has been characterized herein as a pan nuclear receptor antagonist at concentrations of > 12.1 μM. The highest antagonist activity for GW0742 was found for VDR and the androgen receptor. Surprisingly, GW0742 behaved as a PPAR agonist and antagonist, activating transcription at lower concentrations and inhibiting this effect at higher concentrations. A unique spectroscopic property of GW0742 was identified as well. In the presence of rhodamine-derived molecules, GW0742 increased the fluorescence intensity and level of fluorescence polarization at an excitation wavelength of 595 nm and an emission wavelength of 615 nm in a dose-dependent manner. The GW0742-inhibited NR-coactivator binding resulted in a reduced level of expression of five different NR target genes in LNCaP cells in the presence of agonist. Especially VDR target genes CYP24A1, IGFBP-3, and TRPV6 were negatively regulated by GW0742. GW0742 is the first VDR ligand inhibitor lacking the secosteroid structure of VDR ligand antagonists. Nevertheless, the VDR-meditated downstream process of cell differentiation was antagonized by GW0742 in HL-60 cells that were pretreated with the endogenous VDR agonist 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3.
Rejoinder: Multiple Imperatives, or Some Thoughts about Governance in a Loosely Coupled but Stratified Society

I add my appreciation for the opportunity to be part of this exchange. When weighty matters are debated, there is a risk that participants will talk past one another. The willingness of the Journal...
Transfer of a Tetramethylammonium Ion across the Water−Nitrobenzene Interface: Potential of Mean Force and Nonequilibrium Dynamics

The transfer of a tetramethylammonium ion across the water/nitrobenzene liquid/liquid interface is studied at 300 K using molecular dynamics computer simulations. The potential of mean force, calcu...
The Role of Astrocytes in the Regulation of Synaptic Plasticity and Memory Formation

Astrocytes regulate synaptic transmission and play a role in the formation of new memories, long-term potentiation (LTP), and functional synaptic plasticity. Specifically, astroglial release of glutamate, ATP, and cytokines likely alters the survivability and functioning of newly formed connections. Among these pathways, regulation of glutamate appears to be most directly related to the promotion of LTP, which is highly dependent on the synchronization of synaptic receptors through the regulation of excitatory postsynaptic potentials. Moreover, regulation of postsynaptic glutamate receptors, particularly AMPA receptors, is dependent on signaling by ATP synthesized in astrocytes. Finally, cytokine signaling is also implicated in regulating LTP, but is likely most important in plasticity following tissue damage. Despite the role of these signaling factors in regulating LTP and functional plasticity, an integrative model of these factors has not yet been elucidated. In this review, we seek to summarize the current body of evidence on astrocytic mechanisms for regulation of LTP and functional plasticity, and provide an integrative model of the processes.
Field assessment of the risk posed by Diorhabda elongata, a biocontrol agent for control of saltcedar (Tamarix spp.), to a nontarget plant, Frankenia salina

The biological control program for saltcedar (Tamarix spp.) has led to open releases of a specialist beetle (Chrysomelidae: Diorhabda elongata) in several research locations, but the controversy over potential impacts to native, nontarget plants of the genus Frankenia remains unresolved. To assess the potential for nontarget impacts under Weld conditions, we installed cultivated Frankenia spp. (primarily two forms of Frankenia salina but also including Frankenia jamesii) at locations in Nevada and Wyoming where D. elongata densities and saltcedar defoliation were expected to be very high, so insects would be near starvation with high probability of attacking nontargets if these were suitable hosts. Subsequent insect abundance was high, and only minor impact (<4% foliar damage) was observed on both forms of F. salina under these ‘worst case’ conditions; there was no impact to F. jamesii. No oviposition nor larval development were observed on any plants, there was no dieback of damaged F. salina stems, and plants continued growing once insect populations subsided. These results under ‘natural’ Weld conditions contrast with caged host-range tests in which feeding, development and minor oviposition occurred on the nontarget plant. Other ecological factors, such as distance from target plants to natural Frankenia spp. populations, inhospitable conditions for agent survival in such sites, and intrinsic insect behavior that makes colonization and/or genetic adaptation highly unlikely, lead us to conclude that nontarget impacts following program implementation will be insigniWcant or absent. Host range testing of new agents, while necessary to ensure safety, must put greater attention on assessing the ecological context where agents will be establishing, and on balancing speculated risks against potential beneWts of biological control.
A defense of the Kripkean account of logical truth in first-order modal logic

This paper responds to criticism of the Kripkean account of logical truth in first-order modal logic. The criticism, largely ignored in the literature, claims that when the box and diamond are interpreted as the logical modality operators, the Kripkean account is extensionally incorrect because it fails to reflect the fact that all sentences stating truths about what is logically possible are themselves logically necessary. I defend the Kripkean account by arguing that some true sentences about logical possibility are not logically necessary.
Behavior and academic achievement in hyperactive subgroups and learning-disabled boys. A six-year follow-up.

• Hyperactive boys with and without conduct disorder and a contrast group of boys with specific reading disability were compared on behavior ratings and academic achievement six years after their initial examination to clarify the relationship between hyperactivity and learning disability. Both hyperactive groups were rated as problematic on dimensions of overactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Hyperactive boys who had earlier been undersocialized and aggressive continued to have problems with aggression, while the "pure" hyperactive boys did not. Achievement measures showed performance to be normal for both subgroups, and the incidence of learning disability was only 8%. Reading-disabled youngsters, in contrast, showed only a behavior problem with inattention, yet they all continued to exhibit significant achievement delays. These findings suggest that, while hyperactivity and learning disability may coexist, the incidence of such overlap is less than previously estimated. ( AJDC 1984;138:1025-1029)
Prediction of self-pressurization rate of cryogenic propellant tankage

The SOLA-ECLIPSE code is being developed to enable prediction of the behavior of cryogenic propellants in spacecraft tankage. A brief description of the formulations used for modeling heat transfer and for determining the thermodynamic state is presented. Code performance is verified through comparison to experimental data for the self-pressurization of scale-model liquid hydrogen tanks. SOLA-ECLIPSE is used to examine the effect of initial subcooling of the liquid phase on the self-pressurization rate of an on-orbit full-scale liquid hydrogen tank typical for a chemical-propulsion orbit transfer vehicle. The computational predictions show that even small amounts of subcooling will significantly decrease the self-pressurization rate. Further, if the cooling is provided by a thermodynamic vent system, it is concluded that small levels of subcooling will maximize propellant conservation.
Adjunctive Low Molecular Weight Heparin During Fibrinolytic Therapy in Acute ST‐Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction: A Meta‐Analysis Of Randomized Control Trials

Background Recent data suggests that low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) may be superior to unfractionated heparin (UFH) as an adjunct to fibrinolytic therapy in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Hypothesis We evaluated cardiac outcomes and the risk of major bleeding with LMWHs vs UFH in the management of STEMI. Methods Seven randomized trials of patients with acute STEMI treated with fibrinolytic therapy and adjunctive LMWHs through the index hospitalization or weight-based UFH for at least 48 hours were identified. We analyzed both primary endpoints (death and nonfatal recurrent myocardial infarction through 30 days), and secondary endpoints (death, recurrent myocardial infarction, and major bleeding during index hospitalization at 7 days). Outcomes were computed using the Mantel-Haenszel fixed-effect model. A 2-sided alpha error of < 0.05 was considered significant. Results Compared to UFH, LMWH significantly reduced reinfarction (p < 0.001) during hospitalization at 7 days and the effect remained consistent at 30 d (p < 0.001). When analyzed for mortality at 7 days and 30 days follow-up, there were no statistically significant differences observed between the 2 groups. Additionally the LMWH group had higher risk of major bleeding (p < 0.001). Conclusions The present meta-analysis suggests in patients receiving fibrinolytic therapy for STEMI, LMWHs as an adjunctive therapy is superior to UFH in reducing reinfarction during hospitalization at 7 days and at 30 days. The mortality was not significant between the 2 groups during hospitalization at 7 days and at 30 days. However, UFH is superior to LMWHs in the reduction of major bleeding at 7 days index hospitalization. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tests on immune sera produced against calf thymus chromosome.

SummaryRabbit antisera prepared by injection of cattle chromosomal material contained species-specific, but not type-specific hemolysins for cattle erythrocytes. These sera also showed an unexplained inhibiting activity toward standard antisera reactive with cattle erythrocytes.
From image and video compression to computer graphics

We report previous effort in expanding image and video compression to computer graphics applications, in particular those based on image-based rendering. We then introduce our progress in developing a networked immersive environment that integrates image analysis, face animation, and streaming of 3D objects, to provide a truly immersive environment, with the goal of replacing existing video conferencing platforms.
From banners to YouTube: using the rearview mirror to look at the future of internet advertising

In 14 short years, internet advertising has evolved from banners to experiential promotions. In the beginning, advertisers viewed the internet in the same way they considered traditional media (television, newspapers, magazines). The idea of using a new medium like an older one was described by McLuhan's concept of the rearview mirror. This article describes the history of internet advertising from 1994 to 2007 by looking back to understand its future direction.
Precursors for the Chemical Vator Deposition of Titanium Nitride and Titanium Aluminum Nitride Films

Titanium nitride and ternary alloys thereof are of significant interest due to their hardness, chemical resistance, and good electrical conductivity. We report the synthesis, structure, and properties of several new precursors to titanium nitride that are based upon hydrazine-derived ligands. Application of these complexes in titanium nitride film depositions is overviewed. Film properties and characterization are presented. We also describe a new process for the preparation of titanium aluminum nitride films, and focus on how the presence of small amounts of aluminum change the properties of the material.
A model for seasonal changes in time series regression relationships: With an application in psychiatry

This paper proposes a two-stage linear model for the regression relationships between a time series and a set of time-dependent covariates when the relationships change according to a seasonal pattern. The first stage consists of a piecewise constant autoregression model for these relationships. The second stage models the piecewise coefficients with harmonic equations to examine for seasonal trends. This approach models the seasonal trends in time series regression relationships in the presence of non-constant autoregression, non-constant residual variance, and stochastic variation in the regression effects across time. Seasonal affective disorder )SAD( time series data illustrate the methodology. I model the seasonally changing regression relationships between the change in daily sunlight )from the previous day( and depressive mood and between the change in daily temperature and depressive mood for a SAD patient, and I employ an empirical Bayes method to obtain efficient month-specific estimates for these relationships.
The factor V Leiden mutation, high factor VIII, and high plasminogen activator inhibitor activity: Etiologies for sporadic miscarriage

Abstract We hypothesized that the thrombophilic G1691A factor V Leiden gene mutation was a common significant cause of sporadic first trimester miscarriage. We compared thrombophilia and hypofibrinolysis in 92 women (85 white, 5 black, 2 other) with 1 or more pregnancies and 1 miscarriage (143 live births, 92 miscarriages) (cases) and in 380 female controls (355 white, 21 black, 4 other) with 1 or more pregnancies and 0 miscarriages (964 live births). We used polymerase chain reaction techniques to characterize thrombophilic gene mutations (G1691A V Leiden [FV], G20210A prothrombin, C677T/A1298C MTHFR) and hypofibrinolytic gene mutations (plasminogen activator inhibitor [PAI-1] activity 4G4G). We carried out serologic measures of thrombophilia (homocysteine, anticardiolipin antibodies [ACLA] immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin M, lupus anticoagulant, factor VIII, factor XI, protein C, total and free protein S, antithrombin III) and hypofibrinolysis (plasminogen activator inhibitor activity [PAI-Fx], lipoprotein[a]). Of the 380 controls, 6 (1.6%) had FV heterozygosity vs 12 heterozygous and 2 homozygous FV cases (15.2% [14/92]; P 150%) in 15 (31%) of 48 cases vs 19 (18%) of 103 controls (P = .079). By logistic regression, with age and factor VIII (categorical [≤150%, >150%]) as explanatory variables and group (cases, controls) as the dependent variable, after adjusting for age, high factor VIII was a significant predictor for miscarriage (odds ratio, 3.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.34-8.04; P = .01). There were no other group differences (P > .05) in measures of thrombophilia and hypofibrinolysis. After unexplained sporadic first trimester miscarriage, we suggest that measurements be done of the FV mutation, PAI-Fx, and factor VIII, etiologies for sporadic miscarriage.
Evidence for Anaerobic CH 4 Oxidation in Freshwater Peatlands

This study involved in vitro assays of peat soil to investigate the occurrence, importance and potential mechanism(s) of anaerobic methane oxidation (AOM) in several northern peatlands ranging from ombrotrophic bog to minerotrophic fen. Although strong evidence suggests that AOM is linked to sulfate reduction in marine sediments, very little is known about AOM in freshwater systems such as northern peatlands, which have large methane (CH 4 ) production and are a significant source of atmospheric CH 4 . Our results showed a mean net AOM rate of 17 ± 2.6 nmol kg − 1 s − 1 with a maximum rate of 176 nmol kg − 1 s − 1 for a minerotrophic fen in central New York. AOM was demonstrated with three independent methods to verify our results: (a) additions of methanogenic inhibitors, (b) stable isotope enrichment ( 13 C-CH 4 ), and (c) natural abundance stable isotope analysis ( 13 C-CH 4 ). These experiments confirmed that AOM occurs simultaneously with methanogenesis, consumes a significant portion of gross CH 4 p...
An informatics approach to analyzing the incidentalome

Next-generation sequencing has transformed genetic research and is poised to revolutionize clinical diagnosis. However, the vast amount of data and inevitable discovery of incidental findings require novel analytic approaches. We therefore implemented for the first time a strategy that utilizes an a priori structured framework and a conservative threshold for selecting clinically relevant incidental findings. We categorized 2,016 genes linked with Mendelian diseases into “bins” based on clinical utility and validity, and used a computational algorithm to analyze 80 whole-genome sequences in order to explore the use of such an approach in a simulated real-world setting. The algorithm effectively reduced the number of variants requiring human review and identified incidental variants with likely clinical relevance. Incorporation of the Human Gene Mutation Database improved the yield for missense mutations but also revealed that a substantial proportion of purported disease-causing mutations were misleading. This approach is adaptable to any clinically relevant bin structure, scalable to the demands of a clinical laboratory workflow, and flexible with respect to advances in genomics. We anticipate that application of this strategy will facilitate pretest informed consent, laboratory analysis, and posttest return of results in a clinical context. Genet Med 2013:15(1):36–44
CONDITIONING AID ON SOCIAL EXPENDITURES

Aid conditionality forces countries to adopt policies that they would not otherwise choose. We examine how government discretion should be so constrained when the donor cannot fully control public expenditures, but instead can influence a less disaggregated indicator of public policy, namely the allocation of public spending between the social sectors (e.g. education, health, etc.) on the one hand and more traditional public goods (e.g. infrastructure) on the other. We first show how budget allocations will be altered when recipient government preferences are known – i.e. we characterize what policies the donor should “buy”– and how a given aid budget should be allocated between different types of countries. When recipient government preferences are not known by the donor, the permitted policies are distorted due to incentive constraints, and the extent to which aid flows are optimally differentiated between different countries is reduced.
Application of machine translation in bilingual knowledge management

International usage of information systems demands multilingual support to the creation and management of user oriented knowledge. Human translation for every pair of natural language is not a viable option. This study investigates the applicability of a machine translator to provide cross-lingual support to the questions and answers (QnA) of an online system. As a test case, we developed a domain specific English to Bengali translator named DENGALI to examine the applicability of a domain specific machine translator in a QnA setting. DENGALI was developed using a domain specific dictionary and a part-of-speech-based word alignment algorithm. The chosen test domain was the QnA of an online travel guide named ‘Fodor’. For this application case, DENGALI was found more effective than Google translator and another well-known English to Bengali translator named ONUBADOK.
Playing and Making Games for Learning: Instructionist and Constructionist Perspectives for Game Studies

This article presents an overview of what we know about two perspectives, coined instructionist and constructionist, to games for learning. The instructionists, accustomed to thinking in terms of m...
On time integration of viscoplastic constitutive models suitable for creep

Creep of critical components such as electrical solder connections may occur over long periods of time. Efficient numerical simulations of such problems generally require the use of quasi-static formulations with conjugate-gradient techniques for solving the large number of algebraic equations. Implicit in the approach is the need to solve the constitutive equation several times for large time steps and for loading directions that may have no resemblance to the actual solution. Therefore, an unconditionally stable and efficient algorithm for solving the constitutive equation is essential for the overall efficiency of the solution procedure. Unfortunately, constitutive equations suitable for simulating the materials of interest are notoriously difficult to solve numerically and most existing algorithms have a stability limit on the time step which may be several orders of magnitude smaller than the desired time step. Here an algorithm is proposed which is a combination of the use of a trapezoidal rule and an iterative Newton-Raphson method for solving implicitly the non-linear equations. The key to the success of the proposed approach is to always use an initial guess based on the steady-state solution to the constitutive equation. A representative viscoplastic constitutive equation is used as a model for illustrating the approach. The algorithm is developed and typical numerical results are provided to substantiate the claim that stability has been achieved.
Is the Late Preterm Infant More Vulnerable to Gray Matter Injury than the Term Infant

This article addresses the issue of whether the late preterm infant is more susceptible to gray matter injury induced by hypoxia-ischemia than the term infant. Although different gray matter regions display varying patterns of neuronal injury in the face of hypoxia-ischemia during advancing gestational development, little is known about the specific patterns of injury faced by the late preterm infant. This changing pattern of neuronal vulnerability with age likely reflects developmental changes of susceptibility and protective factors essential for responding to energy deprivation at the molecular, cellular, biochemical, and vascular levels. Future research involving closer examination of the late preterm period is essential to provide a greater understanding of the neuronal vulnerability in the face of hypoxic-ischemic injury.
The Effects of Hydrostatic Pressure on Living Aquatic Organisms III. Behavior and Tolerance of Euplanktonic Organisms to Increased Hydrostatic Pressure

In the habitat temperature, northern cold planktonic species seem more resistant to pressure than related southern warm species. Generally, a prolonged “hyperactivity phase” was recognized between moderate and high hyperbaric levels in most planktonic species. Descriptions of reactions of various planktonic species to increasing pressure are given with reference to stimulated activity (R1), onset of tetany (T), and inactivity (I). On the basis of LD50 levels, the 16 planktonic species show high, moderate, low or extremely low tolerance to one hour stress conditions of high hydrostatic pressure.
Statin use and risk of prostate cancer: Results from the Southern Community Cohort Study

BACKGROUND Epidemiologic studies suggest that statin use may be inversely associated with risk of prostate cancer, but prior studies have focused predominantly on non-Hispanic white populations. METHODS We evaluated the association between statin use and prostate cancer risk in the Southern Community Cohort Study (SCCS). Study participants were 32,091 men aged 40–79 at baseline, 67% of whom were non-Hispanic black. Between study enrollment (2002–2009) and December 31, 2010, 570 prostate cancer cases were diagnosed, including 324 low-grade cancers (Gleason score 7 or Gleason pattern 4 + 3). Analyses of overall prostate cancer were conducted using Cox regression and analyses of grade-specific cancer were conducted using competing risks models. RESULTS Ten percent of non-Hispanic black men and 22% of non-Hispanic white men reported use of statins at study enrollment. As compared to non-use, statin use was associated with a non-significant 14% lower risk of prostate cancer in multivariable models (Hazard Ratio [HR]:0.86; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.63–1.18). This association was stronger for high-grade cancer (HR: 0.62; 95%CI: 0.30, 1.28) than low-grade cancer (HR:0.98; 95%CI: 0.65–1.48). Results were similar by race/ethnicity (p-interaction: 0.41) and did not vary by history of prostate-specific antigen [PSA] screening (p-interaction: 0.65). CONCLUSIONS Results suggest no strong association between statin use and prostate cancer risk overall, and further suggest that if a modest protective effect does exist, it does not vary by race/ethnicity and may be restricted to high-grade tumors, although power to detect differences by subgroup was limited. Prostate 75:1384–1393, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cardiovascular Problems in Pregnant Women With Marfan Syndrome

Case presentation: A 34-year-old Korean woman with Marfan syndrome (MFS) was referred for cardiac evaluation in the 24th week of her first pregnancy. Although she was diagnosed with MFS at the age of 7 years, the patient did not have cardiac evaluations before her pregnancy. An echocardiogram demonstrated mildly dilated left ventricle with normal systolic function, moderately dilated left atrium, severe dilation of the aortic root with maximum diameter of 64 mm, and moderate aortic regurgitation. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a 62×54-mm aortic root aneurysm with no evidence of aortic dissection. The patient was started on metoprolol 50 mg BID, which was increased to 100 mg BID, and she was advised to have an elective surgical aortic repair. She decided to delay her surgery to allow fetal maturity. The patient was hospitalized for 2 weeks for close monitoring and underwent a successful cesarean section at 28 weeks’ gestation followed by a successful Bentall procedure to repair her aortic aneurysm and replace her aortic valve. The diagnosis is based on the Ghent criteria (Table) and relies on history, physical examination, and a molecular genetic test.1 MFS often remains undiagnosed before pregnancy and is recognized only after the development of complications. Because pregnancy-associated complications may be life threatening, health providers caring for women at childbearing ages should be familiar with the diagnostic criteria of MFS. The syndrome involves multiple organ systems, and the diagnosis is at times challenging2 and requires a multidisciplinary approach by specialists in cardiology, ophthalmology, radiology, and clinical genetics. View this table: Table. Ghent Diagnostic Nosology ### Risk for the Mother Pregnancy is associated with increased risk of aortic dissection,3,4 probably caused by hemodynamic changes5 and by hormonally mediated decrease in the amount of mucopolysaccharides and loss of elastic fibers in the aortic wall.6 Reviewing the English literature in the last decade, …