cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Use of the Probability Integral Transformation to Fit Nonlinear Mixed-Effects Models With Nonnormal Random Effects

This article describes a simple computational method for obtaining the maximum likelihood estimates (MLE) in nonlinear mixed-effects models when the random effects are assumed to have a nonnormal distribution. Many computer programs for fitting nonlinear mixed-effects models, such as PROC NLMIXED in SAS, require that the random effects have a normal distribution. However, there is often interest in either fitting models with nonnormal random effects or assessing the sensitivity of inferences to departures from the normality assumption for the random effects. When the random effects are assumed to have a nonnormal distribution, we show how the probability integral transform can be used, in conjunction with standard statistical software for fitting nonlinear mixed-effects models (e.g., PROC NLMIXED in SAS), to obtain the MLEs. Specifically, the probability integral transform is used to transform a normal random effect to a nonnormal random effect. The method is illustrated using a gamma frailty model for cl...
Use of Contact Angle Hysteresis in Estimating Thin Polymer Film Surface Energy and Wettability

A recent surface energy estimation method [1] interpreting contact angle hysteresis measurements was used to estimate surface energy of various commercially important polymer films including UV radiation cross-linked acrylic based monomer systems. The validity of the method was tested on highly hydrophobic non-polar amorphous fluoro-polymers using a number of polar and low surface tension liquids. Contact angle hysteresis was present on these surfaces even though surface morphology of the solution processed fluoro-polymers is close to ideal. Estimated surface energies using such probe liquids were consistent varying slightly with the probe liquid type. On such highly ordered and non-polar polymer surfaces use of polar and low surface tension liquids results in accurate surface energy estimation. However, use of polar probe liquids commonly employed in surface energy estimation methods, such as, Harmonic mean (HM), Geometric mean (GM) or Lewis Acid-Base method (LWAB) on polar surfaces such as polyester resulted in inconsistent surface energy values. To strengthen this observation, the ASTM surface energy estimation procedure (ASTM D2578 04a) developed for polyethylene and polypropylene surfaces (both non-polar) was employed on a sample polar polyester surface using the ASTM probe liquids. Results showed inconsistent surface energy values supporting the conclusion that care must be exercised during use of polar probe liquids in estimating surface energy on polar polymers with the contact angle hysteresis method. Finally, UV radiation cross-linkable acrylic polymer surface energies were estimated with the hysteresis method. Surface energy results were consistent based on five different probe liquids. It was observed that surface energy of the cross-linked monomer networks decreased slightly with increasing UV curing time.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
13C-N.M.R.-Spectral study of the mode of binding of Mn2+ and Gd3+ to N-acetyl-α-neuraminic acid

Abstract Natural-abundance, 13C-n.m.r. spectroscopy was used to study the binding of Gd3+ and Mn2+ to N-acetyl-2-O-methyl-α-neuraminic acid (2) and to methyl N-acetyl-2-O-methyl-α-neuraminate (3). The results showed that Gd3+ and Mn2+ bind in the region of the glycerol-1-yl side-chain and the 5-acetamido group of compound 3. When the α-NeuAc derivative contains a carboxylate anion, as in compound 2, multiple, metal-ion-binding sites occur, involving the head (the carboxyl end) and the tail (the glycerol-1-yl and 5-acetamido groups) of the molecule.
Heterogeneity of aldehyde dehydrogenase expression in lung cancer cell lines is revealed by Aldefluor flow cytometry-based assay.

Background: We have been interested in studying the roles of two aldehyde dehydrogenases in the biology of lung cancer. In this study, we seek to apply Aldefluor flow cytometry-based assay for the measurement of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity in lung cancer cell lines, which may become a new tool that will facilitate our continued research in this field. Experimental Design: Several established lung cancer cell lines were used, including A549 cell line expressing siRNA against aldehyde dehydrogenase class-1A1 (ALDH1A1). Western blot analysis, spectrophotometry assay, and Aldefluor staining were used to measure protein or enzyme activity in these cell lines. For the purpose of measurement of ALDH activity by Aldefluor in cells with known high ALDH levels, cells were mixed 1:10 with immortalized lung epithelial cell line (Beas-2B), which is known to lack ALDH activity. To delineate dead cells, double staining using Aldefluor and propidium iodide (PI) was done. Double staining was also used to detect changes in ALDH activity in two different cell lines after treatment with 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide (4-HC). Results: Our results show a very good correlation between Aldefluor, Western blot, and spectrophotometry assays. Mixing experiments with Beas-2B cells allowed accurate assessment of ALDH activity in A549 cells at baseline and after siRNA expression, thus establishing an approach that facilitates the measurement of very high ALDH using the Aldefluor assay. Aldefluor staining was able to detect heterogeneity in ALDH expression among as well as within the same cell lines and better assess viability after 4-HC treatment when combined with PI. Conclusions: Aldefluor assay can be adapted successfully to measure ALDH activity in lung cancer cells and may have the advantage of providing real time changes in ALDH activity in viable cells treated with siRNA or chemotherapy. © 2006 International Society for Analytical Cytology
Modeling passive scalar dispersion in the atmospheric boundary layer with WRF large-eddy simulation

Abstract The ability of the Weather Research and Forecasting, large-eddy simulation model (WRF-LES) to model passive scalar dispersion from continuous sources in convective and neutral atmospheric boundary layers was investigated. WRF-LES accurately modeled mean plume trajectories and concentration fields. WRF-LES statistics of concentration fluctuations in the daytime convective boundary layer were similar to data obtained from laboratory experiments and other LES models. However, poor turbulence resolution near the surface in neutral boundary layer simulations caused under prediction of mean dispersion in the crosswind horizontal direction and over prediction of concentration variance in the neutral surface layer. A gradient in the intermittency factor for concentration fluctuations was observed near the surface, downwind of ground-level sources in the daytime boundary layer. That observation suggests that the intermittency factor is a promising metric for estimating source-sensor distance in source determination applications.
1032-116 High Marginal Costs Associated with Routine Placement of Coronary Stents

Background Routine coronary stent placement after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) reduces restenosis rates and the need for revascularization of the target lesion during 6 months of follow-up. However, the marginal costs associated with routine placement of coronary stents is not known. Methods Marginal costs associated with stent placement (cost/clinical event avoided) were estimated using median costs for PTCA ($8,3001, stents ($1,600) and hospital days ($350/day) at the Cleveland Clinic. Rates for coronary events, revascularization, angina, and restenosis were obtained from data from the STRESS trial. Results Routine coronary stent placement increased in-hospital cost by g 30% and was associated with high marginal costs (Table). Outcome % Reduction Marginal Cost Coronary Event 4.3 $62,000 Revascularization 5.2 $51,000 Angina 7.8 $34,000 Restenosis 10.5 $25,000 Because these figures do not capture costs for bleeding and vascular complications, follow-up clinic visits, and additional laboratory examinations, they reflect conservative estimates of marginal costs. Conclusion Although routine placement of coronary stents after PTCA appears to be clinically efficacious, this practice is associated with high marginal costs.
Multidimensional Scaling as a Method for Probing the Conceptual Structure of State Categories: An Individual Differences Analysis

Identifying the underlying decision criteria used by operators to classify system state, and revealing the way in which that information is internally represented is one of the challenges facing designers of control systems. This paper describes the use of multidimensional scaling (MDS) to probe the structure and composition of the internal conceptual models used by operators to identify system state. Specifically, the issue of individual differences in mental model is addressed, as well as the impact of these differences on individual performance in a classification task. Twenty subjects were trained as operators to classify instances of system data into one of four system state categories. After training, subjects were asked to rate the similarity between instances of system state. Results showed that the dominant dimensions used by an individual are related to his/her performance on the classification task.
The prognostic value of serum progesterone and quantitative β-human chorionic gonadotropin in early human pregnancy

Objective: Our purpose was to determine whether serum progesterone, with or without quantitative β-human chorionic gonadotropin, is predictive of pregnancy outcome within the first 8 weeks of gestation in asymptomatic women. Study Design: Asymptomatic patients at Results: Seventy-four patients were evaluated in this study. The mean serum progesterone level for viable pregnancies was 22.1 ng/ml, which was significantly greater than that for the nonviable gestations, 10.1 ng/ml ( p p p = 0.59). Conclusions: Serum progesterone alone, within the first 8 weeks of gestation, is predictive of pregnancy outcome.
Simulation of quantum systems using path integrals in a generalized ensemble

The possibility of using path-integral simulations in a generalized ensemble based on the Tsallis statistics is explored. The primitive model algorithm with the Tsallis ensemble replacing the canonical ensemble converges to the quantum-mechanical result with a smaller number of beads in the isomorphic chain. Examples considered are the harmonic oscillator, two double-well systems and a double-well system immersed in an adiabatic solvent.
IMMUNOFLUORESCENCE STUDIES ON SYNTHESIS AND DISTRIBUTION OF TOBACCO MOSAIC VIRUS ANTIGEN IN TOBACCO.

Abstract Techniques were improved for obtaining fluorescein-conjugated antibodies that specifically stained tobacco mossaic virus (TMV) antigen in plant tissues. Mesophyll cells separated by pectinase digestion and paraffin sections of leaves were stained with such fluorescent antibodies to study the synthesis, distribution, and movement of TMV antigen. The latent periods after infection either with TMV or with its ribonucleic acid, as studied antigenically, or by infectivity assays on Nicotiana tabacum var. Xanthi-nc, were similar (18–24 hours) when samples were obtained at 6-hour intervals. TMV antigen was first noticed in infected mesophyll cells in the form of tiny specks of stained material which later formed a ring around the chloroplasts. No antigen was noticed within chloroplasts or nuclei of infected cells. All cell types except the primary xylem elements were susceptible to TMV infection; however, in systematically infected leaves, some mesophyll cells in the dark green areas appeared to be resistant to virus invasion. In stems adjacent to inoculated leaves, TMV antigen was first detected within the phloem and secondary xylem. In stem tips of infected plants, cells containing virus antigen were unevenly distributed. It was demonstrated that a strain of TMV hitherto believed to be a “proteinless” mutant produced TMV protein in infected cells.
Optimal placement of combined 2R/3R regenerators in WDM networks

We address the cost-effective 2R/3R regenerators placement problem. An optimal polynomial-time algorithm for line network topologies and a heuristic for mesh network topologies are proposed. The benefits of combined 2R/3R regenerators placement are evaluated.
Angular distribution of electrons elastically scattered from gases: 2--400 eV on He. I

The angular distribution of electrons elastically scattered from He has been measured by electron impact utilizing a crossed-beam method. The energy and angular range measured were from 2.0 to 400 eV and from -96\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} to + 156\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}, respectively. The present results have been normalized to LaBahn and Callaway's theoretical value at 10.0 eV. The present results agree, in general, with a few previous measurements; however, there are still discrepancies in a detailed shape and magnitude among the measurements. The various theories need more improvements, especially for the backward scattering. It is found that the Born approximation is not yet adequate at 400-eV incident energy.
Visual effects of opiates in pigeons: II. Contrast sensitivity to sinewave gratings.

In a simultaneous forced-choice procedure, three pigeons learned to discriminate between a blank field and sinewave gratings of equal space-averaged luminance. Conditions included two spatial frequencies and, for each, a series of contrasts, which were varied over a range sufficient to generate psychometric functions. Drug tests used two doses of morphine and a condition that combined naloxone with the higher dose. Morphine decreased contrast sensitivity, although this outcome was reliable only at the higher dose and the higher spatial frequency. This effect was reduced and usually blocked by naloxone. Morphine-induced changes in pupil size were too small account for the opiate effect.
Computed tomography-based structural analysis for predicting fracture risk in children with benign skeletal neoplasms: comparison of specificity with that of plain radiographs.

Background: The decision whether to treat benign skeletal lesions surgically can be difficult to make. The purpose of this study was to validate our previously published method of predicting fracture risk with use of quantitative computed tomography-based structural analysis. Methods: We prospectively studied a group of children who presented to a major children's hospital with a benign appendicular skeletal lesion between 2002 and 2007. As in our previous study, the resistance of the affected bone to compressive, bending, and torsional loads was calculated with rigidity analysis performed with the use of serial transaxial quantitative computed tomography data obtained along the length of the bone containing the lesion and from homologous cross sections through the contralateral, normal bone. At each cross section, the ratio of the structural rigidity of the affected bone to that of the normal, contralateral bone was determined. Results: Forty-one patients who had not received surgical treatment for the skeletal lesion met the criteria for our study. Thirty-four (83%) of these individuals completed our activity questionnaire at least two years after the quantitative computed tomography-based rigidity analysis. None of the patients for whom no increased fracture risk had been predicted by the rigidity analysis sustained a fracture, even though they had not received surgical treatment. Conclusions: Many considerations other than the predicted fracture risk are factored into the decision of whether to treat a benign skeletal lesion. However, this study indicated that quantitative computed tomography-based rigidity analysis is more specific (97% specificity) than criteria based on plain radiographs (12% specificity) for predicting the risk of a pathologic fracture since fracture risk indices based on lesion size alone fail to account for the compensatory remodeling of the host bone that occurs in response to the presence of the lesion in a growing child. Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level I. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Normal Bases and Completely Free Elements in Prime Power Extensions over Finite Fields

We continue the work of the previous paper (Hachenberger,Finite Fields Appl., in press), and, generalizing some of the results obtained there, we give explicit constructions of free and completely free elements in GF(qrn) over GF(q), wherenis any nonnegative integer and whereris any odd prime number which does not divide the characteristic of GF(q) or wherer= 2 andq? 1 mod 4. Together with results on the case wherer= 2 andq? 3 mod 4 obtained in the previous paper and results on the well-known case whereris equal to the characteristic of GF(q), we are able to explicitly determine free and completely free elements in GF(qm) over GF(q) for every nonnegative integermand every prime powerq.
A composite rate- and state-dependent law for rock friction

Existing constitutive laws of rock friction cannot describe both observed strengthening in the absence of slip and frictional behavior around steady-state sliding. Combining existing rate- and state-dependent friction laws, we propose a new friction law, which expresses logarithmically time-dependent healing at sliding velocities smaller than a cut-off velocity V c and approaches the so-called slip law at velocities larger than V c. Numerical simulations show that the new friction law adequately explains experimental results of velocity stepping tests and slide- hold-slide tests, which have widely been used to examine velocity-, time-, and displacement-dependent property of rock friction. Because the new friction law has a simple form and appears appropriate for a wide range of conditions, it is useful for application to numerical modeling of seismic cycles.
Authentic Solicitude: What the Madness of Combat Can Teach Us About Authentically Being-With Our Patients

The author’s work with combat veterans who have participated in horrific violence has led him to re-examine therapeutic action and the role of empathy. Authentic solicitude, as Robert Stolorow describes in World, Affectivity, Trauma, becomes central to forming a relational home for processing and integrating traumatic emotional experiences. The author argues that we must use empathy as a tool to find our shared humanity with our patients, the heart of which is finitude. The author also describes some forms of inauthentic Being-towards-death that might serve as unconscious defensive functions for both patients and therapists when facing finitude. He demonstrates how he applies these ideas to understand his reactions when working with patients who have participated in actions that dehumanize others. A stance focused on authentic solicitude with our patients can shift psychoanalysis towards providing a dialogic, relational home for trauma.
Dynamic Maintenance of Planar Digraphs, with Applications

We show that a planarst-graphG admits two total orders on the setV∪E ∪F, whereV, E, andF are respectively the set of vertices, edges, and faces ofG, with ¦V¦ =n. Assuming thatG is to be dynamically modified by means of insertions of edges and expansions of vertices (and their inverses), we exhibit anO(n)-space dynamic data structure for the maintenance of these orders such that an update can be performed in timeO(logn). The discovered structural properties of planarst-graphs provide a unifying theoretical underpinning for several applications, such as dynamic point location in planar monotone subdivisions, dynamic transitive-closure query in planarst-graphs, and dynamic contact-chain query in convex subdivisions. The presented techniques significantly outperform previously known solutions of the same problems.
Mannitol opening of the blood–brain barrier: regional variation in the permeability of sucrose, but not 86Rb+ or albumin

Clinically, infusion of hyperosmolar solutions is used to enhance chemotherapeutic drug penetration of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in patients with malignant brain tumors or metastases. We examined the effect of hyperosmolar BBB disruption on brain permeability of three compounds, 86Rb+, a marker for K+ permeability and transport, [14C]sucrose and Evans blue albumin, using a rat in situ perfusion model. 86Rb+ and [14C]sucrose had increased permeability 20 min after BBB disruption with 1.6 M mannitol. There was no change in Evans blue albumin permeability. Only [14C]sucrose showed regional variation in permeability after mannitol-induced BBB disruption, with the cortex and midbrain having higher sucrose permeability then either the cerebellum or brainstem. These data suggest that the clinical efficacy of hyperosmolar disruption therapy in conjunction with chemotherapeutic agents, of a similar molecular weight to sucrose, may be affected by the location of the tumor within the brain.
Locally minimum-distance correction of syntax errors in programming languages

A formal model for locally minimum-distance correction of syntax errors is presented. This model is based on the assumption that errors occur in clusters which are separated by at least k correct symbols. Even if the assumption fails, this model can still be applied to produce a syntactically correct program from any input string. The value of k can be chosen by the programmer. A larger k reduces the chance that the correction made for one cluster of errors causes spurious errors in the remaining input.Several previous error correction methods are shown to be special cases of this model. A general algorithm for this model is given. An efficient LL(1) error correction algorithm for this model is also provided. Possible extensions of this model and future research are discussed.
Controlling for mental health in earnings equations: what do we gain and what do we lose?

This paper examines the biases in estimating wage equations that may arise from measurement errors in various mental health indicators—two subjective proxies and one clinical assessment. The results suggest that a self-reported measure based on whether the individual reported missing school or work for mental-health-related reasons leads to the smallest measurement error bias in the coefficients of the explanatory variables in an earnings equation. Two specific results lead to this conclusion. For one, the variance of the random component of its measurement error is the smallest among the three indicators leading to the least biased estimates of the impact of mental health on wages. Second, systematic reporting biases which vary with the non-health regressors in a wage equation do not appear to exit in this measure. Consequently, this indicator follows the classical measurement error model. This implies that the coefficient estimates of the impact of non-health variables are always improved, in the sense of having a smaller bias, when this mental health proxy is included in the regression. The measurement error in a self-evaluation according to the scale of excellent, good, fair, or poor has the largest variance thus leading to a substantial understatement of the impact of mental health on earnings. This measure also contains significant reporting biases that vary with gender, race, and education—many of the non-health regressors in a wage equation. The measurement error variance in the simulated diagnostic measure analyzed in this paper is also large. Thus this proxy will yield poor estimates of the impact of mental health on earnings.
Ultrasensitive Detection of CrO42- Using a Microcantilever Sensor

Microcantilevers modified with a self-assembled monolayer respond sensitively to specific ion concentrations. Here, we report the detection of trace amounts of CrO42- using microcantilevers modified with a self-assembled monolayer of triethyl-12-mercaptododecylammonium bromide. The self-assembled monolayer was prepared on a silicon microcantilever coated with a thin layer of gold on one side. The microcantilever undergoes bending due to sorption of CrO42- ions on the monolayer-modified side. It was found that a concentration of 10-9 M CrO42- can be detected using this technology in a flow cell. Other anions, such as Cl-, Br-, CO32- (or HCO3-), and SO42-, have minimal effect on the deflection of this cantilever. The mechanics of the bending and the chemistry of cantilever modification are discussed.
Selenium and GPx-1 overexpression protect mammalian cells against UV-induced DNA damage.

Supplementation of the culture media of human MCF-7 breast carcinoma cells or mouse fibroblasts with low levels of selenium (30 nM) provided as sodium selenite was shown to protect these cells from ultraviolet (UV)-induced chromosome damage, as quantified by micronucleus assay. Selenium supplementation was also effective in reducing UV-induced gene mutations as measured in the lacI shuttle vector model. Protection was dependent on functional BRCA1 activity, a protein implicated in breast cancer risk and DNA damage repair. In addition, overexpression of GPx-1, a selenoprotein with antioxidant activity, also attenuated UVinduced micronuclei formation in the absence of selenium supplementation. Combining selenium supplementation with GPx-1 overexpression further reduced UV-induced micronucleus frequency. These data provide evidence that the benefits of selenium supplementation might be either through the prevention or repair of DNA damage, and they implicate at least one selenoprotein (GPx-1) in the process.
Binding of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3 DPGA) to hemoglobin Isolation of peptides containing firmly bound 2,3 DPGA.

There is presently much interest [l] in 2,3 diphos phoglycerate as a modifier of hemoglobin conformation; it is of interest, therefore, to clarify binding of 2,3 DPGA to hemoglobin. “Stripped” hemoglobin de scribed by Benesch and Benesch [l] , and claimed by these workers to be free from 2,3 DPGA, has shown consistently in this laboratory over 2 wmoles 2,3 DPGA per mg hemoglobin. Moreover, 2,3 DPGA binds extensively to oxyhemoglobin [2] ; this is also in contradiction to work of Benesch and Benesch [ 11.
Plasmodium hegneri n. sp. from the European teal Anas c. crecca in Taiwan.

SYNOPSIS. Plasmodium hegneri n. sp. is described from the European teal duck, Anas c. crecca, from Taiwan. The blood stages, so far the only ones seen, are distinguished mainly by the elongate character of the gametocytes, which closely resemble Haemoproteus (though the pigment tends to be finer and less abundant), and the failure of both asexual and sexual forms to displace the nucleus or otherwise alter the host cell. Merozoites average 13.4 ± 2.2 (range 10–19) per segmenter. Trophozoites often adhere to the host cell nucleus, and may have a large vacuole and a remarkable long, slender pseudopodium. The species so far has been seen only in the European teal, although blood films from 194 species and over 1200 birds have been examined.
Analysis of ultra‐wideband short pulses for radio communications

A method to determine the transient waveform of ultra-wideband (UWB) pulses at various stages of propagation and scattering is developed based on the reconstruction of incident wave and one of the known results for continuous waves. By using this method, the transmitting power of a UWB pulsed dipole antenna and the loss due to rainfall scattering are calculated, and the feasibility for short- and moderate-range communication applications is discussed. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of scheduling on two-drug combinations of alkylating agents in vivo.

The effects of schedule and sequence on the survival of EMT6 tumor cell and bone marrow (CFU-GM) obtained after treatment using combinations of cyclophosphamide (CTX) and thiotEPA or melphalan (l-PAM) were examined and analyzed by isobologram methodology. On a single-injection schedule, when CTX and thiotEPA were given simultaneously or thiotEPA was given prior to CTX, the result was slightly greater than additive tumor-cell kill. However, when CTX preceded thiotEPA by 4 h, there was less than additive cell kill. When the interval between the administration of the two drugs was 8 h, both sequences of the drugs produced greater than additive tumor-cell kill. Simultaneous administration of CTX and thiotEPA on a multiple-injection schedule resulted in sub-additive tumor-cell kill. On the multiple-injection schedule, extending the interval between injections of CTX and thiotEPA to 4 and 8 h resulted in increasing tumor-cell kill. With the 4- and 8-h intervals, no significant sequence-dependent difference in tumor-cell kill was obtained. The results of CTX andl-PAM combinations paralleled those of CTX and thiotEPA. Bone marrow (CFU-GM) survival was used as a representative normal tissue with which to compare tumor-cell survival after each treatment to obtain a measure of therapeutic effect. The trends for the ratios of bone marrow: tumor cell survival were the same for the treatment sequences of CTX with thiotEPA orl-PAM; however, greater magnitudes of differential tumor-cell kill were obtained with CTXl-PAM combinations. Using this measure, the greatest therapeutic effectiveness was seen with single-dosel-PAM or thiotEPA followed 4 h later by CTX and with CTX given as a single or as multiple doses followed 8 h later byl-PAM or thiotEPA. Such data from tumor-model systems may be useful in the development of more effective alkylating agent regimens for use in the clinic.
Oxidation protection of a chromium alloy by nickel-alloy claddings

Oxidation and nitrogen absorption protection of Cr alloy by Ni alloy claddings applied by gas pressure bonding
Integration of profile hidden Markov model output into association rule mining

Scientific models typically depend on parameters. Preserving the parameter dependence of models in the pattern mining context opens up several applications. Within association rule mining (ARM), the choice of parameters can be studied with more flexibly then in traditional model building. Studying support, confidence, and other rule metrics as a function of model parameters allows conclusions on assumptions underlying the models. We present efficient techniques to handle multiple model output data sets at little more than the cost of one. We integrate output from hidden Markov models into the association rule mining framework, demonstrating the potential for frequent pattern mining in the field of scientific modeling and experimentation.
Long-range ordering of diblock copolymers induced by droplet pinning

The directed self-assembly of diblock copolymers offers unique routes for the design and fabrication of well-ordered arrays of nanoscopic structures. However, generating arrays with long-range order and few defects has been a difficult goal to achieve without extended thermal annealing processes. Here, a simple, one-step route, based on the flow of a solution within a droplet pinned to a surface coupled with solvent evaporation, is shown where highly oriented, ordered arrays of nanoscopic cylindrical domains of a block copolymer can be produced over large distances (tens of microns). Hexagonal arrays of the cylindrical domains of block copolymers are shown to orient parallel to the film surface and in the direction of an evaporation-induced flow, producing morphologies with very long-range order. This solution casting process, that naturally couples two orthogonal fields, is easily transferable to blade- and dip-coating processes that are routinely used to prepare thin films. Thus, a simple route is shown...
Quantum Gravitational Astrophysics

We investigate the possibility that astrophysical observations can be used to probe quantum gravitational phenomena. The particular scenario of an exploding primordial black hole in the presence of an extra dimension is considered.
Graphene-Based Non-Noble-Metal Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Acid

Non-noble-metal catalysts based on Fe–N–C moieties have shown promising oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In this study, we report a facile method to prepare a Fe–N–C catalyst based on modified graphene (Fe–N–rGO) from heat treatment of a mixture of Fe salt, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), and chemically reduced graphene (rGO). The Fe–N–rGO catalyst was found to have pyridinic N-dominant heterocyclic N (40% atomic concentration among all N components) on the surface and have an average Fe coordination of ∼3 N (Fe–N3,average) in bulk. Rotating disk electrode measurements revealed that Fe–N–rGO had high mass activity in acid and exhibited high stability at 0.5 V at 80 °C in acid over 70 h, which was correlated to low H2O2 production shown from rotating ring disk electrode measurements.
Navy Optical Processing Programs For Systems Applications - An Historical Overview

Optics provide a powerful tool where real-time processing of signals using correlations or fourier transforms are used. For this reason the Navy has from time to time explored optical processors. Each time they have ultimately been set aside in favor of other techniques, for reasons given here. In presenting this historical overview no attempt has been made to be encyclopedic. The Navy has and still does support research and development in many aspects of optics. Rather, a few highlights from a systems applications program point of view are touched upon that cover the past two decades.
Lock-in and the costs of switching mainframe computer vendors in the US federal government in the 1970s

No careful empirical research has tested the widely held belief that the cost of switching computer vendors tends to produce technological "lock-in", meaning that the cost of switching between incompatible vendors is prohibitively expensive. Using several studies by federal agencies into the costs of switching mainframe computer vendors, this article concludes that mainframe computers of the late 1970s possessed many of the features typically associated with lock-in. However, many other factors also attenuated tendencies to lock-in. While lock-in was important for the outcomes of several well-documented instances, it is not clear whether lock-in was important for the outcomes of a wide set of cases.
Short-latency fixational saccades induced by luminance increments.

We investigated the effect of peripheral visual stimulation on small-amplitude saccades that occur naturally during fixation. Two macaque monkeys were rewarded for fixating while a colorful stimulus flickered randomly in the periphery. Reverse correlation revealed a lawful relationship between the stimulus sequence and saccade occurrences: on average, a transient increase in stimulus intensity evoked saccades at a latency of ∼70 ms. The spectral tuning of this increase was roughly, but not exactly, consistent with a pure luminance increase. We conclude that peripheral luminance increases can evoke fixational saccades.
Horizontal integration of courses through SAP: implementation in a business school

The teaching of ERP concepts and demonstration of transactions among business functional areas through ERP software such as SAP R/3 could open up wide choices in business curricula design and offerings. While vertical orientation of traditional business curricula has served its purpose, today's business education demands more horizontal integration among courses. The focus to horizontal integration in designing/redesigning business programmes may serve the following objectives: offering more value added courses to students; making the course offerings relevant to industry needs; logical integration of various courses within degree programs; improving job prospects for students. This paper illustrates how courses of a business programme have been redesigned to focus on horizontal integration. A regionally accredited business school took advantage of the SAP-University Alliances Program and changed various courses to incorporate SAP materials. The lessons learned from this exercise could be valuable to business schools elsewhere.
Pure and mixed monomolecular films of 12-nitroxide stearate.

Pure and mixed monomolecular films of 12-nitroxide stearic acid (12-nitroxide stearate) have been studied at the air water interface and both surface pressures and surface potentials obtained as a function of area/molecule. The isotherm for the pure compound shows an inflection at approx. 70 A2/molecule and a collapse at 39 A2/molecule. These observations indicate that close-packed films occur with both polar groups (carboxyl and nitroxide) and then with one polar group (carboxyl) located at the air-water interface. The pure film shows a slow deterioration with time at both pH 2 and 6 due to an attack on the nitroxide group. In mixed films positive deviations from ideality occur at higher pressures with a trend toward small negative deviations at low pressure. Under membrane-like conditions the free energy of chain-chain interactions is reduced. The probe proved to be partially immiscible in a liquid condensed film and immiscible in a solid condensed film, an observation in accordance with a similar segregation observed below the liquid crystalline-gel transition in liposomes and membranes.
Effect of workbout duration on the physical working capacity at fatigue threshold (PWCFT) test

Abstract The purpose of this study was twofold: (1) to determine the effect of increasing the duration of the workbout at each power output during the physical working capacity at fatigue threshold (PWC FT) test from 2 to 3 or 4 min, and (2) to examine the time to exhaustion during continuous workbouts at the PWC FT. Twelve adult males (χ¯± SD = 22.4 ± 3.0 years) volunteered to perform three PWC FT tests using workbout durations of 2, 3, and 4 min. Following the determination of the PWC FT values, nine of the subjects performed continuous workbouts at PWC FT2 and PWC FT4 for as long as possible. The mean PWC FT value using 4-min workbouts (PWC FT4 = 168.8 ± 45.1 W) was significantly less (p<0.05, 19 1%) than that using 2-min workbouts (PWC FT2 = 208.9 ± 59.0W). However, only two subjects were able to complete 60 min at PWC FT4 and none of the subjects were able to complete 60min at PWC FT2. Therefore, although increasing the duration of the workbout at each power output resulted in a lower PWC FT4, these ...
802.11 User Anonymization

Privacy issues have been a serious concern for 802.11 Wireless LAN users. As demonstrated by Pang et al. [1] and Xu et al. [2], applying pseudonym techniques does not completely protect users' privacy. In particular, users' identities can be disclosed through implicit identifiers such as the IP addresses and port numbers users often access. In this paper, we study how to improve user anonymity even if implicit identifiers based identification is applied. The basic idea of our approach is to artificially generate bogus data and inject them into original traffic, and thus users' behavior patterns are disturbed. Specifically, we propose eight different methods to generate bogus data, where each of them applies different algorithms and metrics to generate bogus packets. Our simulation results with SIGCOMM 2004 wireless trace demonstrate that our anonymization methods can decrease user identification rates, and hence improve user anonymity.
Grafts of BDNF-Producing Fibroblasts Rescue Axotomized Rubrospinal Neurons and Prevent Their Atrophy

We have reported that intraspinal transplants of fibroblasts genetically modified to express brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) promote rubrospinal axon regeneration and functional recovery following subtotal cervical hemisection that completely ablated the rubrospinal tract. In the present study we examined whether these transplants could prevent cell loss and/or atrophy of axotomized Red nucleus neurons. Adult rats received a subtotal spinal cord cervical hemisection followed by a graft of unmodified fibroblasts or fibroblasts producing BDNF into the lesion cavity. One or 2 months later, fluorogold was injected several segments caudal to the lesion-transplant site to retrogradely label those Red nucleus neurons whose axons have regenerated. Unmodified fibroblasts failed to protect against either cell loss or atrophy. Neuron counts and soma-size measurements in Nissl-stained preparations showed a 45% loss of recognizable neurons and 40% atrophy of the surviving neurons in the injured Red nucleus. Grafts of BDNF-producing fibroblasts reduced neuron loss to less than 15% and surviving neurons showed only a 20% decrease in mean soma size. Soma size analysis of fluorogold-labeled Red nucleus neurons indicated that the Red nucleus neurons whose axons regenerated caudal to the graft did not atrophy. We conclude that fibroblasts engineered ex vivo to secrete BDNF and grafted into a partial cervical hemisection promote axon regeneration while reducing cell loss and atrophy of neurons in the Red nucleus. These results suggest that transplants of genetically engineered cells could be an important tool for delivery of therapeutic factors that contribute to the repair of spinal cord injury.
Tracheal tone and the role of ionotropic glutamate receptors in the nucleus ambiguus.

Abstract Excitatory amino acid (EAA) transmission in the rostral portion of the ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) appears to be required for reflex airway constriction. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether our prior observations of right sided dominance are also reflected at the level of the RVLM, particularly at the right nucleus ambiguus (NA). Microinjection of glutamate (109 nl, 100 mM) into the right NA of anesthetized dogs produced significant increases in tracheal smooth muscle tone as assessed by pressure changes in a saline filled cuff of the endotracheal tube (Δ15±2 mm Hg). Increasing inspired CO 2 increased tracheal cuff pressure (Δ33±2 mm Hg) which was abolished by microinjections of the EAA antagonist kynurenic acid (109 nl, 100 mM) or the non-NMDA antagonist 6-nitro-7-sulfamobenzoquinoxaline-2,3-dione (NBQX, 109 nl, 10 mM) into the right NA. These results confirm that EAA receptors in the right NA are capable of modulating tracheal tone and suggest that non-NMDA receptors in the right NA are required for reflex airway constriction produced by systemic hypercapnia. Furthermore, the effects of right-sided NA microinjections in the present study, although not completely definitive, are consistent with previous studies that suggest dominant control of canine tracheal tone by the right vagus.
Novel Daptomycin Combinations against Daptomycin-Nonsusceptible Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in an In Vitro Model of Simulated Endocardial Vegetations

Reduced susceptibility to daptomycin has been reported in patients with infections due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Although infections with daptomycin-nonsusceptible (DNS) MRSA are infrequent, optimal therapy of these strains has not been determined. We investigated the killing effects of novel antibiotic combinations with daptomycin (DAP) against two clinical DNS MRSA isolates (SA-684 and R6003) in a 72-h in vitro pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model with simulated endocardial vegetations (SEV). Simulated regimens included DAP at 6 mg/kg every 24 h (q24h) alone or in combination with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) at 160/800 mg q12h, linezolid (LIN) at 600 mg q12h, cefepime (CEF) at 2 g q12h, and nafcillin (NAF) at 4 g q4h. Bactericidal activity was defined as a ≥3-log(10) CFU/g kill. Differences in CFU/g were evaluated between 4 and 72 h by analysis of variance with the Bonferroni post hoc test. DAP MICs were 4 and 2 mg/liter for SA-684 and R6003, respectively. In the PK/PD model, DAP alone was slowly bactericidal, achieving a 3-log(10) kill at 24 and 50 h for SA-684 and R6003, respectively. Against SA-684, DAP plus TMP/SMX, CEF, LIN, or NAF was bactericidal at 4, 4, 8, and 8 h, respectively, and maintained this activity for the 72-h study duration. DAP plus TMP/SMX or CEF exhibited superior killing than DAP alone against SA-684 between 4 and 72 h, and overall this was significant (P < 0.05). Against R6003, DAP plus TMP/SMX was bactericidal (8 h) and superior to DAP alone between 8 and 72 h (P < 0.001). The unique combination of DAP plus TMP/SMX was the most effective and rapidly bactericidal regimen against the two isolates tested and may provide a clinical option to treat DNS S. aureus infections.
Polarization of Maximum Gain Antennas

Several aspects of the polarization of maximum gain arbitrary directional antennas are discussed. Starting with a general expansion of the fields radiated by an arbitrary antenna into spherical harmonics, each with two orthogonal electric sources and two orthogonal magnetic sources, it is shown that the maximum gain of a circularly polarized antenna is identical to the maximum gain achieved for the linearly polarized case. In addition, it is shown that the co- and cross-polarizations for a linearly polarized maximum gain antenna are consistent with Ludwig's third definition. This analysis also leads to the result that the cross-polarization field is identically zero for linearly or circularly polarized maximum gain antennas.
Determination of Volatile and Semivolatile Contaminants in Meat by Supercritical Fluid Extraction/Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry

Meat products that were exposed to a warehouse fire were collected and examined to identify contaminants present in the samples. An extraction method using supercritical carbon dioxide at 100 atm and 60°C was developed to analyse and characterise volatile and semi-volatile compounds from the samples. The major volatile compounds were lipid oxidation products, such as hexanal and nonanal. Volatiles concentrations from fire-exposed meat products were compared to control samples to determine compositional differences. Aromatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were identified, and naphthalene was measured in suspected fire-damaged meat products. Direct supercritical extraction from the meat samples proved to be a rapid and reproducible method to assess contamination in commercial meat products.
Cerium Deposition on Aluminum Alloy 2024-T3 in Acidic NaCl Solutions

We analyzed the interaction of cerium ions with surface intermetallics on Al 2024-T3 in NaCI media under open circuit conditions at pH 3 using scanning electron microscopic, Auger-electron spectroscopic (AES), and energy dispersive X-ray techniques (EDX), as well as electrochemistry. The results indicate that cerium deposition in a pH 3.0 NaCI solution is strongly surface-site specific. The cerium deposition was the highest on the S-phase particles, lower on the (Cu,Fe,Mn)Al 6 sites, and minimal on the bulk matrix. In addition to the formation of a cerium-rich film on the intermetallics, we found that cerium incorporated into the porous structure of the dealloyed S-phase particles (Cu-Mg-Al intermetallics). Our analyses show that cerium does not prevent the dealloying of the intermetallic particles; in fact, the dealloying is necessary for local cerium deposition. AES and EDX data also revealed significant chloride enrichment on the cerium-rich sites. From our electrochemical measurements we conclude that the cerium-rich layer formed in acidic solution at short exposure times does not inhibit cathodic reaction on the intermetallics.
Geostatistics inspired fast layout optimization of nanoscale CMOS phase locked loop

In this paper, we present a geostatistical method for design and optimization of analog and mixed signal circuits design illustrated with the design of phase locked loop (PLL) systems used in Wide Area Network (WAN) and Private Mobile Radio (PMR) applications. The proposed method incorporates the use of a geostatistic based metamodeling technique (Kriging) and optimization algorithm (gravitational search algorithm) and is compared to similar approaches. The results show that the geostatistical methods provide more accurate metamodels and more efficient optimization design techniques. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first geostatistical method for metamodeling and optimization of PLL designs. The proposed optimization could achieve 79% reduction in PLL power with 4% reduction in locking time without any area penalty.