cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Safe manual memory management

We present HeapSafe, a tool that uses reference counting to dynamically verify the soundness of manual memory management of C programs. HeapSafe relies on asimple extension to the usual malloc/free memory management API: delayed free scopes during which otherwise dangling references can exist. Porting programs for use with HeapSafe typically requires little effort (on average 0.6% oflines change), adds an average 11% time overhead (84% in the worst case), and increases space usage by an average of 13%. These results are based on portingover half a million lines of C code, including perl where we found sixpreviously unknown bugs.Many existing C programs continue to use unchecked manual memorymanagement. One reason is that programmers fear that moving to garbage collection is too big a risk. We believe that HeapSafe is a practical way toprovide safe memory management for such programs. Since HeapSafe checks existing memory management rather than changing it, programmers need not worrythat HeapSafe will introduce new bugs; and, since HeapSafe does not managememory itself, programmers can choose to deploy their programs without HeapSafe if performance is critical (a simple header file allows HeapSafe programs to compile and run with a regular C compiler). In contrast, we foundthat garbage collection, although faster, had much higher space overhead, and occasionally caused a space-usage explosion that made the program unusable.
Ideal cardiovascular health predicts lower risks of myocardial infarction, stroke, and vascular death across whites, blacks, and hispanics: the northern Manhattan study.

Background—Evidence of the relationship of cardiovascular health (CVH), defined by the American Heart Association, and specific cardiovascular outcomes is lacking, particularly among Hispanics. This study sought to evaluate the relationship between the number of ideal CVH metrics and cardiovascular risk, overall and by event subtype, in a multiethnic community-based prospective cohort. Methods and Results—A total of 2981 subjects (mean age, 69±10 years; 54% Caribbean Hispanic, 25% black, 21% white) free of myocardial infarction and stroke at baseline in the Northern Manhattan Study were prospectively followed up (median follow-up, 11 years). The relationship between the number of ideal CVH metrics and the risk of cardiovascular disease, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and vascular death, was investigated. Overall, a strong gradient relationship was observed between the adjusted hazard ratios for cardiovascular disease and the number of ideal CVH metrics: 0.73 (95% confidence interval, 0.60–0.89),...
Dynamic behavior of an injection-locked quantum-dash Fabry-Perot laser at zero-detuning

This work investigates the behavior of a zero-detuned optically-injected quantum-dash Fabry-Perot laser as the injected field ratio is increased from near-zero to levels resulting in stable locking. Using a normalized model describing optically-injected semiconductor lasers, variations in the slave laser’s free-running characteristics are shown to have a strong impact on the coupled system's behavior. The theoretical model is verified experimentally using a high resolution spectrometer. It is found that the quantum-dash laser has the technological advantage of a low linewidth enhancement factor at low bias currents that suppresses undesirable Period-2 and chaotic behavior. Such observations suggest that optically-injected quantum-dash lasers can be used as an enabling component for tunable photonic oscillators.
Dermatology Residency Selection Criteria with an Emphasis on Program Characteristics: A National Program Director Survey

Background. Dermatology residency programs are relatively diverse in their resident selection process. The authors investigated the importance of 25 dermatology residency selection criteria focusing on differences in program directors' (PDs') perception based on specific program demographics. Methods. This cross-sectional nationwide observational survey utilized a 41-item questionnaire that was developed by literature search, brainstorming sessions, and online expert reviews. The data were analyzed utilizing the reliability test, two-step clustering, and K-means methods as well as other methods. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in PDs' perception regarding the importance of the selection criteria based on program demographics. Results. Ninety-five out of 114 PDs (83.3%) responded to the survey. The top five criteria for dermatology residency selection were interview, letters of recommendation, United States Medical Licensing Examination Step I scores, medical school transcripts, and clinical rotations. The following criteria were preferentially ranked based on different program characteristics: "advanced degrees," "interest in academics," "reputation of undergraduate and medical school," "prior unsuccessful attempts to match," and "number of publications." Conclusions. Our survey provides up-to-date factual data on dermatology PDs' perception in this regard. Dermatology residency programs may find the reported data useful in further optimizing their residency selection process.
Assessment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in Young Children: Psychometric Properties of the Children’s Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale

The Children’s Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS) is the most commonly used instrument to assess the symptoms and severity of pediatric obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). However, only one prior study has evaluated the psychometric properties of the CY-BOCS for assessing young children, ages 5 to 8 years. The limited available evidence suggests that psychometric properties are less favorable with younger children. Thus, the present study aimed to re-examine the technical qualities of the CY-BOCS in a sample of 5 to 8 year olds with early-onset OCD. The sample consisted of 127 younger children, enrolled in a multi-site randomized controlled trial comparing the efficacy of family-based cognitive behavioral therapy to relaxation therapy. The CY-BOCS Total score demonstrated adequate internal consistency, although at a lower level than is typically reported in studies of older children. Internal consistency of the Obsessions and Compulsions subscales was poor. The Total and subscale scores demonstrated good temporal stability over 5 weeks. Agreement between clinician and parent versions was poor at baseline but improved substantially throughout the course of the trial. Results also indicated that the CY-BOCS had good convergent and discriminant validity. Further, certain CY-BOCS items appear more reliable indicators of OCD severity in younger children than others. Limitations, implications, and future directions are discussed, including the potential for further developmentally sensitive refinement of the CY-BOCS for this age group.
Noch Einmal Die Eselinnen Des Kīš (1 Sam Ix)

Milos Bic hat VT VII 1957, S. 92 ff die Kapitel 1 Sam. ix, x 1-16 von einem kanaanaisch-kultischen Hintergrund her verstandlich zu machen gesucht. Er hat dabei den Verlust der Eselinnen ix 3 als festen Bestandteil einer kultischen Begehung erklart, die in den Bereich eines Mythus vom sterbenden und auferstehenden Gott geh6rt. Die verlorengegangene, also wohl in die Unterwelt gestiegene, und wiedergefundene, also auferstandene, Gottheit wird nach ihm durch einen Jiingling reprasentiert, der auf einem Esel sitzend triumphalen Einzug in das Heiligtum hilt. Auch wenn ich den Deutungen von Bic weder in der Grundlinie noch in Einzelheiten zustimme, so scheint es mir doch h6chste Beachtung zu verdienen, dass er den Symbolcharakter des Verlustes der Eselinnen so nachdriicklich unterstrichen hat; darin wird man zustimmen miissen. Es ist sicher nicht richtig, dass dieser Zug der Erzihlung damit ausreichend begriindet ist, dass der junge Saul hier wie spiter David in einer Hirtentaitigkeit eingefiihrt werden soil. 1) Es ist weiterhin nicht zufillig, sondern rechtfertigt die von Bic gestellte Frage vollauf, dass von Eselinnen, hd'atonot, gesprochen wird. 2) Das bedeutet alle Eselinnen und damit mehr als den zufiilligen Verlust eines Besitzteiles, der zwar irgerlich wire, aber das Gesamtbild eines gibbor hail nicht beeintrachtigen k6nnte. Zwar wird von vielen hier eine Dittographie angenommen und demzufolge der Artikel bei 'atonot getilgt. 3) Abgesehen davon, dass diese Anderung keinen Anhalt in den Versionen hat, verindert sie auch die Aus-
Dilated and Defunct K Channels in the Absence of K

Potassium ions are vital for maintaining functionality of K channels. In their absence, many K channel types enter a long-lasting defunct condition characterized by absence of conductance and drastic changes in gating current. We show that channels pass through a dilated condition with altered selectivity as they are becoming defunct. To characterize these abnormalities we examined gating and ionic currents generated by Shaker IR and by three nonconducting mutants, W434F, D447N, and Y445A, in 0 K+. On entering the dilated condition, Shaker IR becomes permeable to Na+ and tetramethylammonium-positive (TMA+), signaling deformation of the selectivity filter. When dilated, nearly normal closing is possible at -140 mV. At -80 mV, however, closing is very slow and channels stray from the dilated into the defunct condition. Restoration from defunct to dilated condition requires tens of seconds at 0 mV and can occur in the absence of K+. W434F and D447N are similar to Shaker IR, showing Na+ and TMA+ permeability when dilated. The defunct gating currents are similar in Shaker IR and these two mutants and are reminiscent of the early transitions of normal gating. Y445A does not become defunct and shows Na+ but not TMA+ permeability on K+ removal.
Synthesis of Bis(indenyl)zirconium Dihydrides and Subsequent Rearrangement to η5,η3-4,5-Dihydroindenediyl Ligands: Evidence for Intermediates during the Hydrogenation to Tetrahydroindenyl Derivatives

Exposure of η9,η5-bis(indenyl)zirconium sandwich complexes to 4 atm of H2 resulted in facile oxidative addition to furnish the corresponding zirconocene dihydrides, (η5-C9H5-1,3-R2)2ZrH2 (R = SiMe3, SiMe2Ph, CHMe2). Continued hydrogenation completed conversion to the tetrahydroindenyl derivatives, (η5-C9H9-1,3-R2)2ZrH2. Deuterium labeling studies established that dihydrogen (dideuterium) addition to the benzo rings is intramolecular and stereospecific, occurring solely from the endo face of the ligand, proximal to the zirconium. In the absence of dihydrogen, the bis(indenyl)zirconium dihydrides rearranged to new zirconium monohydride complexes containing an unusual η5,η3-4,5-dihydroindenediyl ligand, arising from metal-to-benzo ring hydrogen transfer. Mechanistic studies, including a normal, primary kinetic isotope effect measured at 23 °C, are consistent with a pathway involving regio- and stereoselective insertion of a benzo CC bond into a zirconium hydride. The stereochemistry of the insertion reaction...
Sedimentation Kinetics of Flocculated Suspensions III: Effect of ζ-potential

The sedimentation of flocculated suspensions in an intermediate concentration range was previously shown to consist of an initial region of pseudoparabolic nature and of a final region of biexponential character. The rate constant, k, of the initial region is shown here to be a function of both Stokes and aggregational forces, and a method is outlined showing the effect of both. The electrical potential effect on the sedimentation kinetics was studied by varying the ζ-potential; of the contraction rate constants, ω1 and ω2, in the final region, the larger (ω1) is fairly independent of the ζ-potential whereas the reciprocal of ω2 is linearly related to the reciprocal of the ζ-potential.
Parasitology of the English Sole, Parophrys vetulus Girard in Oregon, U.S.A.

A total of 877 juvenile English sole (Parophrys vetulus Girard) from the Yaquina Bay estuary and742 juvenileandadultsole from the Pacific Ocean off Oregon were examined forparasites. Fifteen species of parasites were found in juvenile English sole on the estuarine nursery ground. Differences in the prevalence and intensity of parasite infection between size classes of juvenile sole and between sole occupying the upper and lower estuary were determined. An additional 14 parasite species were found in offshore English sole, bringing the total observed in all fish to 29 species. Parasites acquired only in the estuary included the microsporidan Glugea stephani, the acanthocephalan Echinorhynchus lageniformis, and the nematode Philometra americana. Those acquired only in offshore areas included the trematodes Otodistomum veliporum and Zoogonus dextrocirrus, the leech Oceanobdella sp. and three species of copepods. An attempt to use parasite data to indicate the presence of distinct English sole stocks along the Oregon coast was inconclusive.
Blood Alcohol Concentration Levels among Dui Arrestees: Are There Differences When Considering Race and Gender?

Many studies and treatment programmes associated with driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol have focused on Caucasian males, either minimising or casually addressing minorities and females who historically may have not consumed alcohol and driven at equivalent BAC levels. The current study examines arrest report data in order to compare the mean blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels for individuals arrested for DUI when considering race and gender. Examination of arrest data revealed that while females were less frequently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, female intoxication levels as measured by their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of their arrest were equivalent to their male counterparts (t (242) = 1.214, p = 0.226). Further, when considering for arrestee's race there was no statistically significant difference between the mean BAC levels of Caucasians when compared with African Americans and other minorities (F (2, 241) = 0.358, p = 0.700).
The ABCD's of Paxos

We explain how consensus is used to implement replicated state machines, the general mechanism for fault-tolerance. We describe an abstract version of Lamport's Paxos algorithm for asynchronous consensus. Then we derive the Byzantine, classic, and disk versions of Paxos from the abstract one, show how they are related to each other, and discuss the safety, liveness, and performance of each one.
Heat-induced force suppression and HSP20 phosphorylation in swine carotid media.

In vascular smooth muscle, cyclic nucleotide-dependent phosphorylation of heat shock protein 20 (HSP20) on serine-16 (Ser16) has been suggested to cause force suppression, i.e., reduced force with ...
Stable 1.25 watts CW far infrared laser radiation at the 119 μm methanol line

Far-infrared CW radiation of 1.25 watts has been obtained at the 119 micron methanol line with a CO2 pump power of 125 watts, and the maximum frequency fluctuation of the free running laser is measured to be less than + or - 100 kHz per hour. Reflecting optics have been used, when possible, to minimize CO2 degradation, and the frequency stability is ensured by cooling the input and output couplers. The input and output assemblies within the lasing medium are enclosed to minimize the external effects on the cavity length and to eliminate the mechanical instabilities associated with the use of bellows. The vibrational bottle-neck is broken by cooling the resonator wall to 5 deg and adding He as the buffer gas.
Classical theory of nonlinear Compton scattering.

The covariant dynamics of a single classical electron subjected to the electromagnetic field of an intense, linearly polarized, ultrashort laser pulse in vacuum is studied in the context of the Dirac-Lorentz equation, which has long been suggested as a possible theory which includes radiative reaction. The Dirac-Lorentz equation is integrated numerically using Dirac{close_quote}s suggestion that the acausal (no runaway) solution should produce physically interesting consequences. This appears to be the case in our Compton scattering calculations, although the exact meaning of the results is not clear. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}
Four-state model for the Schottky transistor

Static operation of the Schottky-clamped transistor is described in terms of four simple models, cutoff, active, clamp, and reverse clamp; where the clamp model closely resembles the saturation model for an unclamped transistor. With these models one can describe details of circuits containing Schottky transistors using simple equivalent circuits. >
Androgens repress Bcl-2 expression via activation of the retinoblastoma (RB) protein in prostate cancer cells

The oncogene Bcl-2 is upregulated frequently in prostate tumors following androgen ablation therapy, and Bcl-2 overexpression may contribute to the androgen-refractory relapse of the disease. However, the molecular mechanism underlying androgenic regulation of Bcl-2 in prostate cancer cells is understood poorly. In this study, we demonstrated that no androgen response element (ARE) was identified in the androgen-regulated region of the P1 promoter of Bcl-2 gene, whereas, we provided evidence that the androgenic effect is mediated by E2F1 protein through a putative E2F-binding site in the promoter. We further demonstrated that retinoblastoma (RB) protein plays a critical role in androgen regulation of Bcl-2. The phosphorylation levels of RB at serine residues 780 and 795 were decreased in LNCaP cells treated with androgens. Ectopic expression of a constitutively active form of RB inhibited expression of Bcl-2. Knockdown of endogenous RB protein by an Rb small inference RNA (siRNA) induced an increase in Bcl-2 levels. Most importantly, the effect of androgens on Bcl-2 was abolished completely by specific inhibition of RB function with a mutated E1A. Finally, androgen treatment of LNCaP cells upregulated specifically levels of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKIs) p15INK4B and p27KIP1. Ectopic expression of p15INK4B and/or p27KIP1 inhibited Bcl-2 expression. Knockdown of endogenous p15INK4B or p27KIP1 protein with a pool of siRNAs diminished androgen-induced downregulation of Bcl-2 expression. Therefore, our data indicate that androgens suppress Bcl-2 expression through negatively modulating activities of the E2F site in the Bcl-2 promoter by activating the CDKI-RB axis.
Left main coronary artery stenosis: A possible complication of transluminal coronary angioplasty

Coronary transluminal angioplasty is a new alternative modality for the treatment of specific lesions of coronary artery disease. Although numerous complications have been recognized, this represents the first report of development of a severe left main coronary artery stenosis following left anterior descending artery angioplasty.
Nonlinear bending of rectangular orthotropic plates

Abstract Displacement formulation of the governing field equations for nonlinear behaviour of rectilinearly orthotropic elastic plates are presented. These equations are then used to obtain an approximate solution of a simply supported rectangular plate subjected to a uniformly distributed load. The Galerkin-Dubnov technique is used to obtain the approximate solution. Nonlinear behaviour is studied for some specific degrees of orthotropy.
Use of N-[5-(5,7-dimethyl boron dipyrromethene difluoride-sphingomyelin to study membrane traffic along the endocytic pathway.

Abstract We have used N-[5-(5,7-dimethyl boron dipyrromethene difluoride)-1-pentanoyl]- d -erythro-sphingosylphosphorylcholine (C5-DMB-SM or ‘BODIPY™-SM’), a fluorescent analog of sphingomyelin, to study lipid transport along the endocytic pathway of human skin fibroblasts. The unique spectral properties of the BODIPY™ fluorophore allow the investigator to distinguish various populations of labeled endosomes and lysosomes within the living cell by fluorescence microscopy, and in conjunction with quantitative fluorescence microscopy, to estimate the concentration of these lipids in different intracellular compartments. This methodology is also applicable for visualizing the accumulation of lipids in the endosomes and lysosomes of storage disease fibroblasts.
On the connection of thermal dilatation to protective layer formation in the fretting of metallic tribo-specimens

Abstract This paper studies the effects of the heat dissipation capacity of a rubbing material on wear resistance at high temperatures. These effects are studied with a special focus on the dilatation of the thermal energy in sliding. These results suggest a connection between wear transition and the change in the heat dissipation capacity of a rubbing material. The nature of change in the thermal properties before and after the transition influences the thermal environment within the contacting layers. This controls the kinetics of oxide formation and thereby controls wear. Thermal dilatation is a super position of three functions which represent the competing effects of the room temperature thermal properties and their respective variation with temperature. The possible relation between thermal dilatation and protective oxide formation is studied by examining the fretting wear data for two alloys a Ni-based alloy and a Co-based alloy. The results indicate a strong correlation between the formation of protective oxides and the change in the thermal dilatation of the examined alloys with temperature. Moreover, examination of the wear data suggests that a critical ratio between the effects of the conductivity and those of the diffusivity has to be established for favorable wear resistance. This ratio, which is controlled by the thermal effusivity of the rubbing material, reflects on the intrinsic ability of the material to sustain an oxidative reaction of a controlled rate. So that, the protective glaze oxide layers are formed in a rate that is, approximately equal to the rate of oxide layer break down. Whence, continuous compensation for the removed oxide layer (self-repairing oxides) is established.
Formative research conducted in rural Appalachia to inform a community physical activity intervention.

Abstract Purpose. Despite the well-established benefits of physical activity (PA), most Americans, especially those in rural, traditionally underserved areas, engage in considerably less PA than recommended. This study examines perceived barriers to and facilitators of PA and promising organized PA programs among rural Appalachians. Design. Eight focus groups and seven group key informant interviews were conducted. Setting. This study was conducted in eastern Kentucky, in central Appalachia. Subjects. One hundred and fourteen rural Appalachian residents (74% female, 91% white) participated. Measures. Open-ended, semistructured, and structured questions regarding perceptions of, barriers to/facilitators of, and examples of successful/failed PA programs were asked. Analysis. Qualitative data analysis was conducted, including codebook development and steps taken to ensure rigor and transferability. Interrater reliability was over 94%. Results. In addition to barriers that are consistent with those found in o...
Advanced Controls for Fuel Consumption and Time-on-Wing Optimization in Commercial Aircraft Engines

This paper introduces an architecture that improves the existing interface between flight control and engine control. The architecture is based on an on-board dynamic engine model, and advanced control and estimation techniques. It utilizes a Tracking Filter (TF) to estimate model parameters and thus allow a nominal model to match any given engine. The TF is combined with an Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) to estimate unmeasured engine states and performance outputs, such as engine thrust and turbine temperatures. These estimated outputs are then used by a Model Predictive Control (MPC), which optimizes engine performance subject to operability constraints. MPC objective and constraints are based on the aircraft operation mode. For steady-state operation, the MPC objective is to minimize fuel consumption. For transient operation, such as idle-to-takeoff, the MPC goal is to track a thrust demand profile, while minimizing turbine temperatures for extended engine time-on-wing. Simulations at different steady-state conditions over the flight envelope show important fuel savings with respect to current control technology. Simulations for a set of usual transient show that the TF/EKF/MPC combination can track a desired transient thrust profile and achieve significant reductions in peak and steady-state turbine gas and metal. These temperature reductions contribute heavily to extend the engine time-on-wing. Results for both steady state and transient operation modes are shown to be robust with respect to engine-engine variability, engine deterioration, and flight envelope operating point conditions. The approach proposed provides a natural framework for optimal accommodation of engine faults through integration with fault detection algorithms followed by update of the engine model and optimization constraints consistent with the fault. This is a potential future work direction.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Evaluating photocatalytic asphalt pavement effectiveness in real-world environments through developing models: a statistical and kinetic study

Photocatalytic asphalt pavements are evaluated in this study as a possible air-pollution reduction strategy and to comprehend their behaviour in the real-world environment. Statistical models from real-world experiments or reaction kinetics are two approaches to understand the photocatalytic reduction in real-world environments. The objective of this study was to develop a statistical model for nitrogen oxide (NO) reduction using data from a field study and to evaluate the photocatalytic reaction kinetics of NO reduction, which could be used in future theoretical air-pollution model simulations. To achieve this objective, a photocatalytic water-based spray coating was applied on an existing asphalt pavement site for the field study statistical model and on laboratory samples for the kinetic study. Based on the field data, the NO reduction was modelled using statistical regression techniques by creating a model for a non-coated pavement and photocatalytic pavement. The coefficient of determination was 0.79...
Computational foundations for personalizing instruction with digital libraries

This paper describes our progress towards automating adaptive personalized instruction based on student conceptual understandings using digital libraries. The reported approach merges conversational learning theory with advances in natural language processing to enable personalized pedagogical interactions. Multi-document summarization techniques serve as the computational basis to process digital library resources and automatically construct a rich domain model on earthquakes and plate tectonics for high school age learners. Shallow semantic analysis and graph-based techniques are used to computationally diagnose student understandings that enable conceptual personalizations integrating digital library resources. The evaluation of the implemented algorithms indicates that digital libraries may serve as knowledge platforms to support the automated construction of rich domain models and the diagnosis of student conceptual understandings. Furthermore, this approach introduces a novel and effective alternative to prior work in adaptive learning environments in terms of scalability and portability, thus tackling important challenges associated with supporting personalized instruction using digital libraries.
An Advanced Wafer Stepper For Sub-Micron Fabrication

An advanced wafer stepper is presented addressing the specific problems involved by sub-micron lithography such as alignment and focusing to multilayer resist films. New sub-systems were developed while maintaining principles well proven in a previous design. The system is described emphasizing the new sub-systems, and performance data are presented.
The fetal heart: A practical sonographic approach

Structural abnormalities of the heart are a fairly common problem, affecting more than 8 of 1,000 newborns annually in the United States. Therefore, sonographic detection of these anomalies in utero is important. It is possible to detect a high percentage of fetal cardiac anomalies through proper sonographic examination using three central views of the heart: (1) the four-chamber view; (2) the aortic outflow tract view; and (3) the pulmonary output tract view. Although average sonologists may not be able to provide a precise diagnosis for a cardiac abnormality, they are able to recognize such abnormalities in a high percentage of cases by using these three views and by answering the following questions: (1) Is the heart in a normal position? (2) Is the heart size normal? (3) Are the ventricles equal in size? (4) Is there a septal defect? (5) Are the atrioventricular valves in a normal position? and (6) Is there any abnormality of the endocardium, myocardium, or pericardium? This article presents a practical approach to the detection of fetal cardiac anomalies using the four-chamber and outflow tract views. Examples of normal anatomy and cardiac pathology are provided as well as a listing of differential diagnoses that should be reviewed when certain abnormalities are visualized.
Running in Circles about Begging the Question

In a published exchange, Richard Robinson and Roy A. Sorenson debate the matter of whether begging the question is a fallacy; Robinson thinks it is not, but Sorenson argues that it is. Norman Ten attempts to resolve this debate by making a distinction between begging the question and fallaciously begging the question. While Teng is right to note that Robinson and Sorenson are talking past each other, he incorrectly diagnoses the source of this miscommunication. In this paper, then, I offer what I take to be a more illuminating distinction “3; viz. that between logical and rhetorical fallacies “3; and employ that distinction to resolve the debate.
Extending, changing, and explaining the brain

This paper addresses concerns raised recently by Datteri (Biol Philos 24:301–324, 2009) and Craver (Philos Sci 77(5):840–851, 2010) about the use of brain-extending prosthetics in experimental neuroscience. Since the operation of the implant induces plastic changes in neural circuits, it is reasonable to worry that operational knowledge of the hybrid system will not be an accurate basis for generalisation when modelling the unextended brain. I argue, however, that Datteri’s no-plasticity constraint unwittingly rules out numerous experimental paradigms in behavioural and systems neuroscience which also elicit neural plasticity. Furthermore, I propose that Datteri and Craver’s arguments concerning the limitations of prosthetic modelling in basic neuroscience, as opposed to neuroengineering, rests on too narrow a view of the ways models in neuroscience should be evaluated, and that a more pluralist approach is needed. I distinguish organisational validity of models from mechanistic validity. I argue that while prosthetic models may be deficient in the latter of these explanatory virtues because of neuroplasticity, they excel in the former since organisational validity tracks the extent to which a model captures coding principles that are invariant with plasticity. Changing the brain, I conclude, is one viable route towards explaining the brain.
A-21 Compliance

A-21 is the number designation given to an OMB (Office of Management and Budget) directive on cost accounting to universities and other institutions that receive federal research grants. This circular lays down rules for grants. It requires the accounting of a university researcher's work to be made in terms of actual time spent, or in terms of a vaguely defined percent of effort. Most university professors realize that accountability is actually measured by a group of their peers—the group that eventually decides whether or not to recommend approval and funding for the next proposal or extension. Thus tangible results establish that a scientist has done his proposed job—not his hours (or ‘% effort’). The OMB accountants want the books to be kept in hours but will accept percent of effort reports.
Subsystem pseudopure states

A critical step in experimental quantum information processing (QIP) is to implement control of quantum systems protected against decoherence via informational encodings, such as quantum error-correcting codes, noiseless subsystems, and decoherence-free subspaces. These encodings lead to the promise of fault-tolerant QIP, but they come at the expense of resource overheads. Part of the challenge in studying control over multiple logical qubits is that QIP testbeds have not had sufficient resources to analyze encodings beyond the simplest ones. The most relevant resources are the number of available qubits and the cost to initialize and control them. Here we demonstrate an encoding of logical information that permits control over multiple logical qubits without full initialization, an issue that is particularly challenging in liquid-state NMR. The method of subsystem pseudopure states will allow the study of decoherence control schemes on up to six logical qubits using liquid-state NMR implementations.
Social science: The mathematics of murder

A mathematical model of gun ownership has been developed that clarifies the debate on gun control and tentatively suggests that firearms restrictions may reduce the homicide rate.
Imaging features of enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli colitis.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to define and illustrate the radiologic findings in patients with enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli colitis.CONCLUSION. Although not definitive, imaging studies in conjunction with an appropriate clinical history can aid in the early diagnosis of E. coli colitis and exclude surgical conditions. CT is more sensitive than conventional radiography for detection. Contiguous involvement, including the transverse colon, was seen in all patients. Because CT is becoming routine in the initial workup of patients with acute abdominal pain, it is important for the radiologist to suggest E. coli colitis in the proper setting.
CORPORATE COMBINATIONS OR FAILED ACQUISITION ATTEMPTS: PARTIAL ACQUISITIONS BY POSNER AND NON‐POSNER FIRMS.

Corporate control is assumed to rest in management's hands in firms with widely dispersed share ownership, but ownership of a relatively small block of shares may be sufficient to give the blockholder at least some measure of control or influence. Although the influence of individuals or institutions holding large minority positions is generally believed to benefit all shareholders through improved monitoring of management, one corporation may be motivated to acquire a sizeable minority position in another to achieve the benefits of merger without incurring the costs of a complete takeover. Given this motivation, the interests of the corporate minority shareholder may differ considerably from the interests of other shareholders.
Molecular Theory of Microemulsions

In this paper, a molecular thermodynamic approach is developed to predict the structural and compositional characteristics of microemulsions. The theory can be applied not only to oil-in-water and water-in-oil droplet-type microemulsions but also to bicontinuous microemulsions. This treatment constitutes an extension of our earlier approaches to micelles, mixed micelles, and solubilization but also takes into account the self-association of alcohol in the oil phase and the excluded-volume interactions among the droplets. Illustrative results are presented for an anionic surfactant (SDS)-pentanol-cyclohexane-waterNaCl system. Microstructural features including the droplet radius, the thickness of the surfactant layer at the interface, the number of molecules of various species in a droplet, the size and composition dispersions of the droplets, and the distribution of the surfactant, oil, alcohol, and water molecules in the various microdomains are calculated. Further, the model allows the identification of the transition from a twophase droplet-type microemulsion system to a three-phase microemulsion system involving a bicontinuous microemulsion. The persistence length of the bicontinuous microemulsion is also predicted by the model. Finally, the model permits the calculation of the interfacial tension between a microemulsion and the coexisting phase.
A Unified Approach to Cylindrical and Spherical Elastic Waves by Method of Characteristics

Unified approach to propagation of plane, cylindrical and spherical dilation waves in elastic media, using method of characteristics
A multi-scale non-parametric and parametric hybrid multi-category recognition algorithm with probabilistic outputs

The synthesis of an effective multi-category nonlinear classifier with the capability to output calibrated posterior probabilities to enable post-processing is of great significance in practical recognition situations because the posterior probability reflects the assessment uncertainty. However, the estimation of posterior probability for multi-category classifiers is an unwieldy problem in the realm of pattern recognition, which usually is more intractable than that in dichotomic cases. In this paper, with the aid of binary tree representation for nested structures, a new polychotomous classification and posterior probability estimation scheme is developed on the strength of Bayesian decision theory. In particular, by capitalising on the intrinsic conexus between hierarchical structure and multi-scale analysis, the polychotomous multi-scale Bayesian kernel Fisher discriminant (KFD) is implemented for building the classifier at different scales for different levels. Finally, the performance of the propos...
An analytical comparison of optimization problem generation methodologies

Heuristics are an increasingly popular solution method for combinatorial optimization problems. Heuristic use often frees the modeler from some of the restrictions placed on classical optimization methods required to constrain problem complexity. As a result, modelers are using heuristics to tackle problems previously considered unsolvable, improve performance over classical optimization methods, and open new avenues of empirical study. Researchers should fully understand key test problem attributes and sources of variation to produce efficient and effective optimization studies. These problem attributes and sources of variation are reviewed. Problem correlation structure significantly effects algorithm performance but is often overlooked or ignored in empirical studies. The paper analyzes the correlation structure among a set of standard multidimensional knapsack problems and recommends an improved approach to synthetic, or randomly generated optimization problems for the empirical study of solution algorithms for combinatorial optimization problems.
Acetate in recent anoxic sediments: Direct and indirect measurements of concentration and turnover rates

Abstract While acetate is generally regarded as an important intermediate in the mineralization of organic matter in anoxic sediment systems, some quantitative studies in marine systems (including our own) have measured acetate oxidation rates in excess of sulphate reduction rates where sulphate is known to be the principal electron acceptor. We revisited Skan Bay, Alaska, where we had previously made such observations, for a reexamination of acetate turnover. Measurements of acetate concentrations, production rate, oxidation rate and sulphate reduction rate as well as bioenergetic considerations led to the conclusion that acetate oxidation rate in 15–18-cm deep sediment is 1·1–1·5 μM h −1 . The possibility that previous measurements were high because of a non-citric-acid-cycle pathway of acetate oxidation (suggested by recent laboratory studies) was excluded. It appears that our previous turnover measurements were high mainly because of high acetate concentrations. Procedures used for the isolation of porewater for acetate determination may influence results to an extent not previously recognized.
Expression of transforming growth factor-β3 by embryonal carcinoma cells, parietal endoderm-like cells and early mouse embryos

Utilizing the technique of reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), we have examined the expression of transforming growth factor-beta 3 (TGF-β3) by embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells, EC-derived differentiated cells and early mammalian embryos. Using a TGF-β bioassay, we determined that PYS-2 cells express considerable TGF-β activity that cannot be completely neutralized by antibodies specific for TGF-β1 and TGF-β2. We also have determined that PYS-2 cells, as well as F9 EC cells and their differentiated cells, express transcripts for TGF-β3. In addition, we have determined that blastocysts, cultured for three days in serum-containing medium, express TGF-β3 transcripts. Thus, our data suggest that expression of TGF-β3 is initiated during early stages of mammalian development.
Controlled production of left ventricular failure in intact calves using implanted coronary occluders.

With the current development of chronically implanted left ventricular assist devices in calves [2, 7, 12, 131, the need for a method of producing left ventricular failure in this species has bec&me apparent. Previous studies have shown that left ventricular failure due to ischemia may be readily achieved in the dog by a variety of methods including coronary embolization [ 11, implantation of ameroid constrictors [18], and implantation of coronary occlusion devices [6, 9, 101. Of these methods, only the last has proved to be entirely suitable for the production of controllable left ventricular failure in the intact, conscious animal. The present study applies this method in calves to produce both transient and permanent left ventricular failure by occluding one or more major coronary arteries. MATERIALS AND METHODS
Oral epithelial cells are susceptible to cell-free and cell-associated HIV-1 infection in vitro

Epithelial cells lining the oral cavity are exposed to HIV-1 through breast-feeding and oral-genital contact. Genital secretions and breast milk of HIV-1-infected subjects contain both cell-free and cell-associated virus. To determine if oral epithelial cells can be infected with HIV-1 we exposed gingival keratinocytes and adenoid epithelial cells to cell-free virus and HIV-1-infected peripheral blood mononuclear cells and monocytes. Using primary isolates we determined that gingival keratinocytes are susceptible to HIV-1 infection via cell-free CD4-independent infection only. R5 but not X4 viral strains were capable of infecting the keratinocytes. Further, infected cells were able to release infectious virus. In addition, primary epithelial cells isolated from adenoids were also susceptible to infection; both cell-free and cell-associated virus infected these cells. These data have potential implications in the transmission of HIV-1 in the oral cavity.
Influence of horizontal inhomogeneity in the ionosphere on the reflection of Alfvén waves

A study of the reflection of Alfven waves at a horizontally inhomogeneous ionosphere has been carried out. In this study, the Alfven speed above the ionosphere is assumed to be uniform and the ionosphere is treated as a height-integrated conducting slab. Analytical and numerical results indicate that the horizontal nonuniformity of the ionospheric conductivity can lead to a rotation of the reflected wave fields and cause field-aligned currents that originate in the ionosphere. A strong conductivity nonuniformity on the direction perpendicular to the incident wave field, large Hall to Pedersen conductivity ratios, and low conductivity values lead to a large rotation of the reflected wave field in the range from a few to 40 deg. The implications of the theoretical results for some ionospheric phenomena are presented, including comments on the Harang discontinuity and sun-aligned arcs.
Variation of Stimulus Context and its Effect on Word-Finding Ability in Aphasics

Summary The word-finding performance of 36 aphasic subjects was studied in three different stimulus contexts, viz., picture-naming, completing an open-ended sentence, and naming an object from its description. The word-finding ability of the aphasics was not uniform, but varied according to the stimulus situation. Open-ended sentences were easiest, with picture-naming next, and naming to a description last. Further, an analysis of the errors indicated that there is a relationship between the quality of the errors made in naming, and the underlying type of aphasia.
Postimpact modification by volcanic or tectonic processes as the rule, not the exception, for Venusian craters

[1] We present three investigations that use the Venusian impact crater population to constrain the planet's resurfacing history. We evaluate stereo-derived topography for 91 Venusian craters that have a diameter (D) greater than 15 km. Craters with radar-bright floors have greater rim-floor depths and rim heights than craters with radar-dark floors. For the bright-floored craters rim-floor depths are dbf = 0.483 D0.165 and rim heights are rhbf = 0.056 D0.483. Trends for dark-floored craters are ddf = 0.424 D0.108 and rhdf = 0.181 D−0.025. For a 60 km crater, this represents differences of 290 m in rim-floor depth and 240 m in rim height. We interpret these results to indicate that dark-floored craters have experienced postimpact volcanic embayment and filling. We examine the population of craters with D > 20 km that have radar-dark halos surrounding their continuous ejecta (114 craters). We find that a portion of the halo has been removed for almost all dark-floored craters, consistent with our interpretation that dark-floored craters have been affected by postimpact volcanism. Finally, we assessed geologic histories of 12 large impact structures with stereo coverage. All but one of these structures has experienced postimpact volcanism or tectonic deformation, often in multiple episodes. In summary, widespread volcanic and tectonic activity occurred throughout the time period of emplacement of the crater population. Postulated resurfacing histories that consider the majority of craters to be at the top of the stratigraphic column are invalid, and the mean surface age of Venus is young (∼150 My).
Morphological evidence for the presence of contractile elements in secretory ameloblasts of the rat

Abstract The filaments which constitute the apical and basal terminal webs of secretory ameloblasts resemble myofilaments of smooth muscle at the ultrastructural level. The similarity is in terms of dimension, organization, and association with fusiform densities typical of those seen in smooth muscle. The terminal web filaments are distinctly different from other cytofilaments within the interweb region of the secretory ameloblasts. In effect, the terminal web filaments display the morphological features of a contractile organelle. It is suggested that the filaments are instrumental in achieving the lateral movement which has been postulated for secretory ameloblasts.
A note on the time dependence of pineal gland research publications.

Graham DJ, McNulty JA. A note on the time dependence of pineal gland research publications. J. Pineal Res. 1997; 23:59–62. ©Munksgaard, Copenhagen Abstract Counts of the number of publication titles containing the search truncation “pinea*” were compiled via Current Contentsover the time period 1978–1994. These counts and their time dependence were examined for autocorrelations and frequency spectral components. Such analyses were carried out irrespective of either author, research laboratory, funding, or other factors. Interestingly, the results show the research publication rate in pineal studies to be linked to community history. In particular, the interactions affecting output among community members operate on a few characteristic time scales ranging from one to several years.