cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Covariate adjustment in continuous biomarker assessment.

Continuous biomarkers are common for disease screening and diagnosis. To reach a dichotomous clinical decision, a threshold would be imposed to distinguish subjects with disease from non-diseased individuals. Among various performance metrics, specificity at a controlled sensitivity level (or vice versa) is often desirable since it directly targets the clinical utility of the intended clinical test. Meanwhile, covariates, such as age, race, as well as sample collection conditions, could impact the biomarker distribution and may also confound the association between biomarker and disease status. Therefore, covariate adjustment is important in such biomarker evaluation. Most existing covariate adjustment methods do not specifically target the desired sensitivity/specificity level, but rather do so for the entire biomarker distribution. As such, they might be more prone to model misspecification. In this paper, we suggest a parsimonious quantile regression model for the diseased population, only locally at the controlled sensitivity level, and assess specificity with covariate-specific control of the sensitivity. Variance estimates are obtained from a sample-based approach and bootstrap. Furthermore, our proposed local model extends readily to a global one for covariate adjustment for the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve over the sensitivity continuum. We demonstrate computational efficiency of this proposed method and restore the inherent monotonicity in the estimated covariate-adjusted ROC curve. The asymptotic properties of the proposed estimators are established. Simulation studies show favorable performance of the proposal. Finally, we illustrate our method in biomarker evaluation for aggressive prostate cancer. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Skilled Labor Externalities and Multiple Steady States in a Small Open Economy

In this model, while firms exhibit constant returns to scale, the entire economy exhibits increasing returns to scale due to positive skilled labor externalities, which make feasible the existence of multiple steady states that can be ordered in a Paretian sense, which is useful to reflect on development issues. This model, predicting that marginal productivity of capital is equal in all countries, gives an answer to the capital allocation puzzle (Lucas, 1990). Another prediction of the model is that skilled labor productivity is greater in developed countries than in the underdeveloped countries, providing an important factor in explaining skilled labor migration towards rich countries. It also explains how a country with agents who experience no asymmetries of information, no irrational behaviour, and no credit constraints, could be trapped in a low fixed points where only small amounts of capital are invested, low wages are paid, productivity of skilled workers is low, and most of the labor force is unskilled.
Law and the Emotions: The Problems of Affective Forecasting

Legal scholarship on behavioralism and the implications of cognitive biases for the law is flourishing. In parallel with the rise of such commentary, legal scholars have begun to discuss the role of the emotions in legal discourse. Discussion turns on the "appropriateness" of various emotions for the substantive law, and on attempts to model the place of the emotions in the law. Implicit in some of these theories, however - and explicit in others - is the assumption that emotions are "predictable," "manageable," and (for some commentators) under conscious control. This assumption is belied by psychological research on affective forecasting that demonstrates individuals' inability to accurately predict future emotional states, both their own and others'. Such inaccuracy has surprisingly broad implications for both substantive and procedural aspects of the legal system. The research findings also demonstrate the implausibility of some theoretical models of the emotions; if these models are flawed, then the normative conclusions drawn from them may be flawed as well. In this Article I review the psychological data demonstrating inaccuracies in affective forecasting, and spin out their implications in a number of substantive legal areas. The data show potential flaws in the way civil juries assign compensatory awards, and in our approach to certain aspects of sexual harassment law. The findings have profound implications for the presentation of victim impact statements to capital juries, but also undercut some abolitionist claims regarding the suffering that death row prisoners experience. Contract law is implicated by these findings, especially in the context of contracts for surrogate motherhood. And the data are relevant to areas of health law as well - for instance, regarding the use of advance directives broadly as well as in the specific context of euthanasia. I also discuss broader issues, such as the implications of the affective forecasting research for theories of law and the emotions more broadly. In this discussion I include some of the specific drawbacks to some current theories. In addition, I address the data's implications for the very theories of welfare and well-being that underlie much legal policy, as well as some speculations about what the findings might have to say about potential paternalistic policies.
Tinkering with Acellular Division

Self organization of proteins involved in bacterial cell division is demonstrated in vitro.
Conference Report: China–Myanmar Relations: The Dilemmas of Mutual Dependence

Georgetown University’s Asian Studies program hosted a conference on November 4, 2011 entitled “China–Myanmar Relations: The Dilemmas of Mutual Dependence.” The conference included panel discussions by scholars and government officials from China, Myanmar, Thailand, India, Japan, the Netherlands, Germany, Canada, and the United States. With an attendance of over 150 people, it proved that discussions regarding the Sino–Myanmar relationship are able to attract interest in Washington.
Work in progress - success in first-year engineering

A longitudinal study is underway with the goal of identifying sources of and cognitive processing associated with undergraduate engineering student self-efficacy beliefs, the beliefs held by individuals concerning their capabilities to perform the tasks necessary to achieve a desired outcome. Central to this study is the question: What aspects of students' engineering experiences play a role in shaping their efficacy beliefs? Investigated are differences between genders and across various engineering disciplines. Further, the study is designed to examine how self-efficacy beliefs change in the first and second years of an engineering program. For most undergraduate students, the desired outcome of their efforts is success in their courses and field of study. Therefore, this portion of the phenomenographical study, supported by an ERM division mini-grant, uses qualitative surveys and interviews as a means of determining the different ways first-year engineering students define success
Tea: Chemistry and Processing

Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world. More than 300 different varieties of tea are produced from the leaves of Camellia sinensis by various manufacturing processes. The three major types of tea, green tea (nonfermented), oolong tea (semifermented), and black tea (fermented), differ in terms of their manufacture and chemical composition. Catechins are the most abundant polyphenols in green tea. The fermentation of tea leaves induces enzymatic oxidation and polymerization of catechins and leads to the formation of theasinensins in oolong tea and theaflavins and thearubigins in black tea.
A limited sampling method for the estimation of AUC and Cmax of carbamazepine and carbamazepine epoxide following a single and multiple dose of a sustained-release product.

Aims The objectives of this study are to develop a model to predict area under the curve (AUC) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax ) of carbamazepine (CBZ) and its active metabolite carbamazepine epoxide (CBZE) following single and multiple dose of CBZ using one or two samples in volunteers. Methods Limited sampling models (LSM) were developed for CBZ and CBZE following 200–800 mg single oral dose and 400–800 mg twice daily dose for 14 days of a sustained-release product (CBZ-SR) to estimate AUC and Cmax. The LSM was developed from a training data set of 15 subjects using one blood sample taken at 48 h following a single dose. The model was validated on 60 subjects who received different doses of CBZ. Following multiple dosing, the LSM was developed from a training data set of 10 subjects using the steady state Cmin (plasma concentration obtained 5 min before the last CBZ-SR dose). Results The model provided good estimates of AUC and Cmax for CBZ and CBZE. The bias and the precision of the predicted AUC and Cmax for CBZ and CBZE were less than 10% and 15%, respectively. Similar results were obtained when CBZ was given as multiple dose. Conclusions The method described here may be used to estimate AUC and Cmax for CBZ and CBZE without detailed pharmacokinetic studies following single or multiple dose of CBZ.
A National Perspective of Competencies for Teachers of Individuals with Physical and Health Disabilities

With the growing trend towards generic certification, questions arise concerning the extent of knowledge and skills teachers have in instructing students with physical and health disabilities. This national study examines the knowledge and skills of teachers instructing students with physical and health disabilities, the perceptions of their special education directors, the resources available through their state Departments of Education, and the competencies included in physical and health disabilities at their universities. Results indicate that over 40% of the special education teachers certified to teach students with physical disabilities do not feel well trained in about half of the competencies. Concerns regarding the effects of generic teacher certification and generic training in the area of physical and health disabilities are discussed.
Assembly of the mitochondrial membrane system: isolation of mitochondrial transfer ribonucleic acid mutants and characterization of transfer ribonucleic acid genes of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Abstract A method is described for isolating cytoplasmic mutants of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with lesions in mitochondrial transfer ribonucleic acids (tRNA's). The mutants were selected for slow growth on glycerol and for restoration of wild-type growth by cytoplasmic "petite" testers that contain regions of mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) with tRNA genes. The aminoacylated mitochondrial tRNA's of several presumptive tRNA mutants were analyzed by reverse-phase chromatography on RPC-5. Two mutant strains, G76-26 and G76-35, were determined to carry mutations in the cysteine and histidine tRNA genes, respectively. The cysteine tRNA mutant was used to isolate cytoplasmic petite mutants whose retained segments of mitochondrial DNA contain the cysteine tRNA gene. The segment of one such mutant (DS504) was sequenced and shown to have the cysteine, histidine, and threonine tRNA genes. The structures of the three mitochondrial tRNA's were deduced from the DNA sequence.
Independent Korean Libraries in Japan: Promoting Identity, Building Community

Faced by discrimination and pressure to assimilate, one method of social activism employed by Korean residents of Japan has been to establish independent libraries. The institutions’ purpose is to preserve, develop and propagate Korean cultural identities, as well as to foster community and positive relations with the Japanese. This paper will examine eight libraries established in and around the large urban areas of Tokyo and Osaka-Kobe over the past four decades. It will discuss the institutions’ overall goals and collections, as well as their research, publishing, and educational activities. Introduction This is not simply a library. Our mission is to become a place to create a new culture while being in contact with traditional culture. We aspire to rise above the divisions caused by generation, nationality, and the thirty-eighth parallel [dividing North and South Korea]. [Kum Su Library] 'Even now, with the progress of internationalization, the structure of prejudice and discrimination within Japanese society has not changed.' That is why 'we need the Center, in order to examine our own situation, and so that the Japanese can understand Korea.' [Arirang Center for Korean History and Culture] How do Korean residents of Japan create a place for themselves in an assimilationist society, where they can celebrate their identities and lobby for their rights as equal partners? One avenue has been the establishment of independent libraries. This paper will examine such institutions and how collection building, research and educational activities have contributed to their mission to develop identity, pride and self-acceptance as Koreans. Further, it will show how the libraries work to strengthen the bonds between Koreans in an ideologically-divided society, and create connections with the Japanese based on shared understanding and mutual respect. Eight libraries and resource centers will be discussed. They are mostly concentrated in the areas of Japan with the largest Korean populations, the Hanshin (Osaka-Kobe) area, and in and around Tokyo. The libraries were chosen for this study because they were founded by a Korean individual, or a group in which Koreans played a leading role; are focused primarily on Korean content; and are independent of public library, academic, or government institutions. Research was conducted through site visits and interviews in the spring of 2007, as well as a literature review. A full list of libraries with contact information is provided in the appendix. Journal of East Asian Libraries, No. 150, February 2010
Morphometric Evaluation of Sebaceous Gland Volume in Intact, Castrated, and Testosterone-Treated Rats

Starting at 19 weeks of age six male rats, castrated at 16 weeks, were injected intramuscularly three times per week with 0.25 mg testosterone propionate (dissolved in sesame oil) per 100 grams body weight. Four castrated control rats received sesame oil only. Samples of dorsal skin were taken under light ether anesthesia at the time of orchidectomy and at weekly intervals during treatment. Histologic sections were cut perpendicular to the skin surface, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and analyzed morphometrically for their volume content of sebaceous glands. A square grid of 42 sampling points was superimposed on each microscopic field at a magnification of 300 × and an average of about 1000 points were counted over the entire thickness of the skin in each section. The average thickness of the skin was also determined for each sample. Three weeks after castration the mm 3 of sebaceous glands per cm 2 of skin was reduced from 1.76 to 0.96, a difference that is statistically significant at p
The United States and the Kurds: A Cold War Story

In a prolonged quest for independence after 1945, Kurdish nationalists reportedly sought help from U.S. officials who viewed the Kurdish issue through a Cold War prism and who regarded the Kurds as querulous mountain tribes useful primarily in keeping the Soviet Union and its Arab clients off balance. Recently declassified documents shed new light on three key episodes in this story: first, the secret encouragement provided by Washington to Kurds opposed to Iraq's Abdul Karim Qassim, who tilted toward Moscow after seizing power in 1958; second, the covert action launched by Richard Nixon and Henry Kissinger in Iraqi Kurdistan after Saddam Hussein allied himself with the USSR in 1972; and third, the half-hearted U.S. attempts to foment regime change in Iraq in the early 1990s. In each case, the U.S. government stirred up anti-Arab resentments among the Kurds, helped ignite an insurrection, and then pulled the plug when events spiraled out of control. U.S. duplicity plus Kurdish factionalism equaled tragedy...
Heterogeneity Analysis of the Human Pituitary Proteome

Background: A human proteome is relatively dynamic compared with its corresponding genome. Our aim was to study the heterogeneity of a human pituitary proteome as a function of gender, age, and race. Methods: Pituitary control tissues (n = 8) were used to extract proteins; each control tissue was analyzed (n = 3–5) with two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DGE) and PDQuest software. We obtained 30 high-resolution 2DGE gels and conducted a comparative analysis as a function of gender, age, and race. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole-ion trap tandem mass spectrometry were used to characterize the protein in each differential spot. Results: We detected ∼1000 protein spots in each [2DGE][1] map, and 51 differential spots (7 differing with gender, 17 with age, 15 with race, and 12 with the coeffect of age and race). Among those 51, we characterized 28 proteins [5 differing with gender, 8 with age, 6 with race, 8 with the coeffect of age and race, and 1 (somatotropin chain 1) with all of these]. Somatotropin was related to gender, age, and race, and prolactin was higher in females than males. The differentially expressed proteins that were related to age were mainly those proteins associated with cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and death; those proteins showed no difference with gender and race. Age and race affected some proteins associated with hormone regulation (e.g., follistatin, thyroid hormone receptor β-2, adenylate cyclase-inhibiting Gα protein). Conclusions: A heterogeneity exists in the human pituitary proteome as a function of gender, age, and race. These findings will serve as a basis for our comparative proteomics studies of human pituitary adenomas. [1]: /lookup/external-ref?link_type=PDB&access_num=2DGE&atom=%2Fclinchem%2F49%2F10%2F1740.atom
The Nature of Matter

Image and Logic. A Material Culture of Microphysics. PETER GALISON. University of Chicago Press, Chicago, 1997. xxvi, 955 pp., illus. $90 or £71.95, ISBN 0-226-27916-2; paper, $34.95 or £27.95, ISBN 0-226-27917-0.
Whither information security? Examining the complementarities and substitutive effects among IT and information security firms

Abstract The last few years have seen an increase in the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity among information security firms and other information technology (IT) firms offering complementary technologies. Using social network analysis methods, we investigate the characteristics and underlying dynamics of these M&A activities in the United States (US) over the period 1996–2008. Our results reveal a 400% increase from 1996 to 2006 in the cohesiveness of the network linking the information security firms and IT firms considered in our analysis. This, in turn, implies a move towards industry convergence. In particular, we show that M&As involving identity and access management (IAM) firms have become twice more central to M&As by IT firms in 2003 (compared to 2002), reflecting an increasing trend among IT firms to integrate IAM technologies within their products. The results in this paper provide M&A managers of IT firms with strategic insights into which complementary information security firms ought to be acquired.
Vibrational dynamics associated with multiple elastic configurations in KI: ag +

Abstract A systematic experimental investigation of the fcc lattice-defect system KI: Ag + shows that the thermally activated disappearance of the strengths of the IR and Raman active vibrational modes and the appearance of rf dispersion and frequency-shifted UV electronic transitions are associated with the Ag + ion moving from an on-center to an off-center configuration. The possibility that an impurity/intrinsic-localized-mode complex could dissociate to produce the rapid temperature dependence has been tested but the absence of a concentration dependence for the normalized vibrational mode strengths with temperature appears to rule out this trapping model. A jump-rotational-diffusion model can describe the observed results in terms of two elastic configurations separated from each other by a large energy barrier. The impurity jumps between the configurations with temperature dependent dwell times. The physics behind multiple elastic configurations existing at a single point defect site is still unclear.
The selection of food plants in a polyphagous insect, Prodenia eridania (Cramer)

Abstract The polyphagous habit of the southern armyworm, Prodenia eridania , was confirmed. Although the larvae fed on a wide array of plants, they still did not consume all plants. Of 74 species belonging to 64 genera and 32 families, used in an acceptance and growth survey, 8 were refused, 25 were eaten to a slight extent, and 41 supported growth to a greater or lesser degree. Many of the plants normally resistant to Prodenia were more acceptable in agar-casein leafpowder diets than in the fresh state. This suggested that such plants were resistant because of physical characteristics, such as spines or toughness, though the possibility of chemical feeding deterrents being destroyed in the drying process, or unduly diluted in the tests, was not entirely excluded. In a few cases, like the wild parsnip or the Boston fern, the resistance was caused by chemical deterents or poisons. On the whole, plants with higher protein contents were more readily accepted and supported growth better than plants with lower protein contents. There was no evidence that a normal food plant, the lima bean, contained specific feeding attractants.
Self-Assembly of Magnetic Nanoparticles in Evaporating Solution

When deposited from an evaporating solution onto a substrate, even nondescript nanoparticles can organize into intricate spatial patterns. Here we show that a simple but long-ranged anisotropy in nanoparticles' interactions can greatly enrich this scenario. In experiments with colloidal Co nanocrystals, which bear a substantial magnetic dipole, we observe assemblies quite distinct from those formed by nonmagnetic particles. Reflecting the strongly nonequilibrium nature of this process, nanocrystal aggregates also differ substantially from expected low-energy arrangements. Using coarse-grained computer simulations of dipolar nanoparticles, we have identified several dynamical mechanisms from which such unusual morphologies can arise. For particles with modest dipole moments, transient connections between growing domains frustrate phase separation into sparse and dense regions on the substrate. Characteristic length scales of the resulting cellular networks depend non-monotonically on the depth of quenches we use to mimic the effects of solvent evaporation. For particles with strong dipole moments, chain-like aggregates formed at early times serve as the agents of assembly at larger scales. Their effective interactions drive the formation of layered loop structures similar to those observed in experiments.
Expression of industrially relevant laccases: prokaryotic style

Laccases are a class of multi-copper oxidases (MCOs) that catalyze the one-electron oxidation of four equivalents of a reducing substrate, with the concomitant four-electron reduction of dioxygen to water. They can catalyze a multitude of reactions, including the degradation of polymers and oxidative coupling of phenolic compounds, positioning them as significant industrial enzymes. Although fungal laccases are well known and well characterized, only recently has in silico biology led to rapid advances in the discovery, characterization and engineered expression of prokaryotic laccases. We describe the recent burgeoning of prokaryotic laccases, their catalytic properties, structural features and molecular evolution, vis-a-vis fungal laccases where possible. Special focus is given to the application of laccases to the emerging cellulosic biofuel industry.
Parameterization of Org27569: An allosteric modulator of the cannabinoid CB1 G protein-coupled receptor

The cannabinoid CB1 receptor is a class A G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that is the most widely expressed GPCR in the brain. Many GPCRs contain allosteric binding sites for endogenous and/or synthetic ligands, which are topographically distinct from the agonist-binding site that is known as the orthosteric site. While both endogenous and synthetic ligands that act at the CB1 orthosteric site have been known for some time, compounds that act at a CB1 allosteric site have only recently been discovered. The most studied of these is 5-chloro-3-ethyl-1H-indole-2-carboxylic acid [2-(4-piperidin-1-ylphenyl)ethyl]amide (Org27569). Because allosteric ligands are thought to act through conformational changes in the receptor that are transmitted from the allosteric to the orthosteric site, computational studies of the structural and dynamic interactions of Org27569 with the CB1 receptor are crucial to achieve a molecular level understanding of the basis of action of this important new class of compounds. To date, such computational studies have not been possible due to the lack of a complete set of molecular mechanics force field parameters for Org27569. Here, we present the development of missing CHARMM force field parameters for Org27569 using previously published methods and the validation and application of these new parameters using normal mode analysis and molecular dynamics simulations combined with experimental infrared measurements.
Flow improvement of waxy oils mediated by self-aggregating partially crystallizable diblock copolymers

Precipitation and gelation of long chain paraffins from oil presents a challenge to the recovery and processing of waxy crude oils and fuel stocks. Diblock polymers consisting of a crystallizable polyethylene (PE) block and an amorphous poly(ethylenepropylene) (PEP) block self-assemble in oil to form expansive plate-like aggregates, consisting of a PE core within a PEP brush layer. In the presence of crystallizable paraffins the crystalline PE core can promote nucleation of solubilized long chain paraffins or may cocrystallize with the paraffin phase with the soluble PEP brush providing steric stabilization of the wax crystals. We examine the effect of PE-b-PEP additives of varying PEP brush length (5 and 11 K) on the yield stresses of straight chain paraffin gels (ranging in length from 24 to 36 carbons) in decane. PE-b-PEP addition at levels as low as 500 ppm produce reductions of wax gel yield stresses by factors of 3000. At higher PE-b-PEP addition levels gels can be formed with higher yield values than solutions without polymer. The location of the minimum in the yield stress with respect to polymer addition depends on the molecular weight of the paraffin and the PEP brush length. Microscopic crystal dimensions and mobility correlate with the observed rheological results. Potential underlying mechanisms for the observed efficiencies are discussed.
Major differences in CNS sulfonylurea receptor distribution between the rat (newborn, adult) and turtle.

Our previous results have shown that KATP channels play an important role in K+ efflux and extracellular K+ accumulation in the rat brain, and this role was quantitatively more important in the adult than in the newborn brain. The purpose of this study was to localize by autoradiographic techniques the binding sites of glibenclamide, a potent sulfonylurea ligand that targets KATP channels, in the adult and newborn fat central nervous system (CNS). Since the adult turtle is resistant to anoxia, we also compared the rat to the turtle brain sulfonylurea receptor distribution. In all three animal groups (newborn rat, adult rat, adult turtle), specific glibenclamide binding was saturable. Scatchard plots were curvilinear in the rat, thus suggesting that glibenclamide binds to two types of sites, i.e., high and low affinity sites. Scatchard analysis on turtle brain tissue showed evidence of one binding site only, We also found that the distribution of glibenclamide binding sites was heterogeneous in the adult rat CNS with a higher density in rostral than in caudal regions. The highest binding densities were seen in the cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, substantia nigra, and a few thalamic nuclei; intermediate densities were observed in the basal ganglia, septum, thalamus, and the hypoglossal nucleus. There was a low density in most areas of the hypothalamus, midbrain, brainstem, and spinal cord. Compared with the adult rat, the newborn had a very homogeneous distribution of binding sites and densities were very low throughout the CNS; the level of binding density was even lower and in some regions undetectable in the adult turtle. Our results indicate that (1) there are high and low affinity sulfonylurea receptors in the rat CNS, (2) there is a striking heterogeneity in the distribution and density of sulfonylurea receptors in the adult rat CNS and this is in sharp contrast to the homogeneous distribution and low density in both newborn rat and adult turtle; (3) sulfonylurea receptors increase in number postnatally in the rat since binding density increases and the Kd in the newborn rat is similar to that in the adult rat. We speculate that KATP channels and sulfonylurea receptors are poorly developed in the turtle and develop mostly after birth in the rat, reaching highest density in adulthood.
Hydrophobic Interactions Stabilize the Basigin-MCT1 Complex

Previous reports demonstrated that monocarboxylate transporter-1 (MCT1) interacts with Basigin. It was hypothesized that the two proteins interact via the transmembrane domain of Basigin, specifically through the glutamate residue within the domain. We therefore sought to test this hypothesis and determine which amino acids of the Basigin protein are necessary for the interaction with MCT1. Probes consisting of the full-length putative transmembrane domain, as well as small regions of the domain, were generated for use in ELISA binding assays using endogenous mouse MCT1. Site directed mutagenesis of candidate residues was performed and probes were generated for ELISA analyses to determine the specific residues involved. The data suggest that hydrophobic residues at the N- and C-termini of the putative transmembrane domain of Basigin interact with MCT1, but the glutamate plays no role. The previously proposed hypothesis is partially correct, in that the putative transmembrane domain of Basigin does interact with MCT1.
Sulfur K‐edge X‐ray absorption spectroscopy for determining the chemical speciation of sulfur in biological systems

Sulfur is an essential biological element, yet its biochemistry is only partially understood because there are so few tools for studying this element in biological systems. X-ray absorption spectroscopy provides a unique approach to determining the chemical speciation of sulfur in intact biological samples. Different biologically relevant sulfur compounds show distinctly different sulfur K-edge X-ray absorption spectra, and we show here, as an example, that this allows the deconvolution of the sulfur species in equine blood.
Diagonally-striped matrices and approximate inverse preconditioners

The inverse of a banded matrix is, in general, dense. If the structure of the original banded matrix is ''striped'', that is, the non-zero diagonals are separated by one or more zero diagonals, the inverse may exhibit a similar striped structure. The motivation for studying inverses of striped matrices is to obtain efficient preconditioners for systems arising from radiation transport equations, whose matrices include dominant values along diagonal stripes. Linear systems whose system matrix has a striped inverse lend themselves to the use of a sparse approximate inverse (SPAI) preconditioner whose structure is derived from that of the actual inverse.
Challenges and Opportunities of Underwater Cognitive Acoustic Networks

In oceans, both the natural acoustic systems (such as marine mammals) and artificial acoustic systems [like underwater acoustic networks (UANs) and sonar users] use acoustic signal for communication, echolocation, sensing, and detection. This makes the channel spectrum heavily shared by various underwater acoustic systems. Nevertheless, the precious spectrum resource is still underutilized temporally and spatially in underwater environments. To efficiently utilize the spectrum while avoiding harmful interference with other acoustic systems, a smart UAN should be aware of the surrounding environment and reconfigure their operation parameters. Unfortunately, existing UAN designs have mainly focused on the single network scenario, and very few studies have considered the presence of nearby acoustic activities. In this paper, we advocate cognitive acoustic as a promising technique to develop an environment-friendly UAN with high spectrum utilization. However, underwater cognitive acoustic networks (UCANs) also pose grand challenges due to the unique features of underwater channel and acoustic systems. In this paper, we comprehensively investigate these unique characteristics and their impact on the UCAN design. Finally, possible solutions to tackle such challenges are advocated.
Isolation of a chondroitin sulfate--dermatan sulfate proteoglycan from bovine aorta.

Abstract Material containing proteoglycans was extracted from bovine aorta by the dissociative solvent 3.0 m MgCl2. The proteoglycan that remained in solution at low ionic strength was purified by isopycnic CsCl centrifugation (ϱ, 1.75 – 1.89 g/ml). From the lower third of the gradient a proteoglycan was isolated which behaved as a homogeneous material when analyzed by the ultracentrifuge and by electrophoresis on cellulose acetate. The proteoglycan contained 12% protein, 21% uronic acid, and 28% hexosamine. Analyses by hyaluronidase digestion and gas-liquid chromatography of the polysaccharide moieties of the proteoglycan showed a composition of 56% chondroitin 6-sulfate, 20% chondroitin 4-sulfate, and 7% dermatan sulfate. A copolymeric structure for the polysaccharide of the proteoglycan is proposed.
Predictors of complete responses with denileukin diftitox in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

The clinical course of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is typically chronic, often progressive, and variably response to existing therapeutic interventions. To date, few controlled clinical trials demonstrate durable complete responses (CR) in advanced-stage patients. Denileukin diftitox (DD) is a recombinant fusion protein targeting the interleukin-2 receptor of malignant cells. Of 263 relapsed and refractory CTCL patients treated with denileukin diftitox in three prospective, randomized Phase II and III clinical trials, 24 (9.1%) patients attained a durable complete response lasting beyond 3.6 years. This study evaluated the characteristics of the complete responders in these trials. CR patients had received a mean of 3.6 prior therapies. There was no difference in the frequency of CR based on stage of disease, dose of DD (9 vs. 18 μg/kg/day) (P = 0.646) or between CD25-positive and CD25-negative patients (P = 1.00). Response durations were 57-1,325+ days in the CD25-positive group and 190-400+ days in the CD25-negative group. These studies demonstrate that DD therapy resulted in durable complete responses in a subset of patients with early and advanced CTCL and CD25-positive and CD25-negative disease.
Determination of zero-field splitting parameters for a MnIV center using variable-temperature, variable-field magnetic circular dichroism spectroscopy: Comparison to electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy

Abstract The ground and excited state properties of [Mn(OMe) 3 (Me 3 TACN)] + (Me 3 TACN = 1,4,7-trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane), which features a mononuclear Mn IV center, were investigated using electronic absorption, magnetic circular dichroism (MCD), and variable-temperature, variable-field (VTVH) MCD spectroscopies. Due to small zero-field splittings (ZFSs), Mn IV centers are difficult to study using X-band electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. In this work, VTVH MCD spectroscopy was explored as an alternative method. [Mn(OMe) 3 (Me 3 TACN)] + served as a test complex, because accurate ZFS parameters are available from high-field, high-frequency EPR (HF-EPR) data [33] . Using an E/D of 0, as determined from X-band EPR data, the VTVH MCD data collected for [Mn(OMe) 3 (Me 3 TACN)] + yield an axial ground-state ZFS parameter ( D ) of similar accuracy, but lower precision, than that obtained from HF-EPR spectroscopy ( D = +0.2(1) and +0.250(5) cm −1 from VTVH MCD and HF-EPR data, respectively). Thus, when combined with X-band EPR spectroscopy, the VTVH MCD method can serve as an alternative to HF-EPR spectroscopy even for systems with small ZFSs. In addition, analysis of electronic absorption and MCD spectral data collected for [Mn(OMe) 3 (Me 3 TACN)] + permit the extraction of excited state parameters 10 Dq and B (∼18 490 and 595 cm −1 , respectively), which are comparable to those of other Mn IV complexes.
Induced osteogenesis—The biological principle and clinical applications

Complex orthopedic and craniofacial surgical procedures have stimulated renewed interest in the physiology of bone grafting. The experimental and clinical evidence that a nonvital implant can stimulate local host cells to become bone-forming cells (osteoinduction) is reviewed. Studies of induced osteogenesis were derived from old clinical observations of heterotopic ossification in scars and muscle. When demineralized bone is placed within soft tissues of a rat, a remarkable sequence of endochondral ossification occurs. In contrast, mineral-containing bone particles stimulate obligatory resorption by host mono- and multinucleated cells. The biochemical, endocrine, and physicochemical aspects of induced osteogenesis are actively being investigated. Present understanding of the mechanism of bone induction is discussed along with descriptions of preliminary clinical trials with allogeneic demineralized implants.
Subtidal Volume Fluxes, Nutrient Inputs and the Brown Tide—an Alternate Hypothesis

Abstract Data and calculations recently published by others show that unusual meteorological and hydrological conditions reduced the flushing rate of Great South Bay and other embayments on Long Island, New York, during the spring of 1985. These observations led to a hypothesis that the resulting increase in retention of inorganic nutrients from land played an important role in establishing conditions necessary for the dramatic brown tide of Aureococcus anophagefferens that bloomed in these, and other nearby systems, in the spring and summer of that year. We present an alternate hypothesis that is consistent with the physical observations, but more compatible with the nutrient budget of Great South Bay and with recent evidence suggesting that Aureococcus blooms are associated with low inputs of inorganic nutrients. The normal flux of dissolved inorganic nitrogen into Great South Bay from the coastal ocean appears to be about 15 times greater than the input from land drainage. The hydrological conditions of spring 1985 would therefore have reduced the major source of inorganic nutrients to the bay rather than increasing nutrient availability. While a reduction in nutrient input may seem inconsistent with initiation of a nuisance algal bloom, there is increasing evidence from field surveys and controlled mesocosm experiments that the growth of Aureococcus is favoured by oligotrophic conditions.
Relating physician’s workload with errors during radiation therapy planning

Abstract Purpose To relate subjective workload (WL) levels to errors for routine clinical tasks. Methods and Materials Nine physicians (4 faculty and 5 residents) each performed 3 radiation therapy planning cases. The WL levels were subjectively assessed using National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). Individual performance was assessed objectively based on the severity grade of errors. The relationship between the WL and performance was assessed via ordinal logistic regression. Results There was an increased rate of severity grade of errors with increasing WL ( P value=.02). As the majority of the higher NASA-TLX scores, and the majority of the performance errors were in the residents, our findings are likely most pertinent to radiation oncology centers with training programs. Conclusions WL levels may be an important factor contributing to errors during radiation therapy planning tasks.
When BAD Is Good for β Cells

BAD, a proapoptotic member of the Bcl-2 family of proteins, is regulated by phosphorylation. A recent study (Danial et al., 2008) suggests a phosphorylation-state-dependent bifunctional role of BAD in the regulation of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and β cell mass.
Second-by-Second Analysis of Advertising Exposure in TV Pods: The Dynamics of Position, Length, and Timing

This study explores how message delivery may differ for television commercials that appear in various pod positions. Channel changing at the onset of commercials often may lead to higher exposure levels for advertisements in the first pod position. When advertising pods are relatively long, viewers may return within the pod, so commercials in the first and last pod positions may have higher exposure levels than commercials in middle pod positions. The set of advantageous pod positions, however, can differ in commercial breaks that appear near the beginning and end of programs. Ideas for audience measurement, media buying, and advertising creative are developed.
Intravesical strangulation of the small bowel. An unusual complication of rupture of urinary bladder.

Abstract Strangulation of a loop of small bowel as the result of herniation into the urinary bladder has never been described. A case of such presentation complicating an intraperitoneal rupture of the urinary bladder is presented and pertinent literature reviewed.
Middle School Students' Notebook Computer Use

This pilot study investigated how middle school students use notebook computers in their daily activities, their knowledge and beliefs about ergonomics, the prevalence of self-reported musculoskeletal discomfort in notebook computer use and if the use of peripherals, a participatory ergonomics approach or goal setting is effective in promoting “healthy computing” and reducing self-reported computer-related musculoskeletal discomfort. One hundred and twenty four students were recruited from three middle schools in Maine to participate in the study for three months. Pilot results suggest that over 26% of the students self-report musculoskeletal discomfort with notebook computer use. Students who self-reported general discomfort typed significantly faster as compared to students who typed at a slower average weekly rate. Participatory ergonomics training that involved the participants in planning, developing, and implementing ergonomic solutions to notebook computer workstations and the use of peripherals, i...
PD‐L1 and PD‐L2 have distinct roles in regulating host immunity to cutaneous leishmaniasis

To compare the roles of programmed death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) and PD-L2 in regulating immunity to infection, we investigated responses of mice lacking PD-L1 or PD-L2 to infection with Leishmania mexicana. PD-L1–/– and PD-L2–/– mice exhibited distinct disease outcomes following infection with L. mexicana. In comparison to susceptible WT mice, PD-L1–/– mice showed resistance to L. mexicana, as demonstrated by reduced growth of cutaneous lesions and parasite burden. In contrast, PD-L2–/– mice developed exacerbated disease with increased parasite burden. Host resistance to L. mexicana is partly associated with the development of a Th1 response and down-regulation of the Th2 response. Both PD-L1–/– and PD-L2–/– mice produced levels of IFN-γ similar to WT mice. However, the development of IL-4-producing cells was reduced in PD-L1–/– mice, demonstrating a role for PD-L1 in regulating Th cell differentiation. This inadequate Th2 response may explain the increased resistance of PD-L1–/– mice. Although no alterations in Th1/Th2 skewing were observed in PD-L2–/– mice, PD-L2–/– mice exhibited a marked increase in L. mexicana-specific antibody production. Increased Leishmania-specific IgG production may suppress the healing response through FcγR ligation on macrophages. Taken together, our results demonstrate that PD-L1 and PD-L2 have distinct roles in regulating the immune response to L. mexicana.
On optimal production and the market to book ratio given limited shareholder diversification

Our purpose is to examine a firm's optimal output decision and valuation when its shareholders hold a limited number of risky assets. The primary theoretical result indicates that the market-to-book ratio is a function of the degree of shareholder diversification. Our theory suggests a negative relationship between a firm's market-to-book ratio and shareholder diversification.
Unsteady aerodynamics in time and frequency domains for finite time arbitrary motion of rotary wings in hover and forward flight

Several incompressible finite-time arbitrary-motion airfoil theories suitable for coupled flap-lag-torsional aeroelastic analysis of helicopter rotors in hover and forward flight are derived. These theories include generalized Greenberg's theory, generalized Loewy's theory, and a staggered cascade theory. The generalized Greenberg's and staggered cascade theories were derived directly in Laplace domain considering the finite length of the wake and using operational methods. The load expressions are presented in Laplace, frequency, and time domains. Approximate time domain loads for the various generalized theories, discussed in the paper, are obtained by developing finite state models using the Pade approximant of the appropriate lift deficiency functions. Three different methods for constructing Pade approximants of the lift deficiency functions were considered and the more flexible one was used. Pade approximants of Loewy's lift deficiency function, for various wake spacing and radial location parameters of a helicopter typical rotor blade section, are presented.
Mineral formation in joints caused by complete or joint-specific loss of ANK function.

To reveal the ANK complete loss of function phenotype in mice, we generated conditional and null alleles. Mice homozygous for the null allele exhibited widespread joint mineralization, similar in severity to animals harboring the original ank allele. A delayed yet similar phenotype was observed in mice with joint-specific loss of ANK function. Introduction: The ANK pyrophosphate regulator was originally identified and proposed to play a key role in articular cartilage maintenance based on a single spontaneous mouse mutation (ank) that causes severe generalized arthritis. A number of human mutations have subsequently been reported in the human ortholog (ANKH), some of which produce skull and long bone defects with no apparent defects in joints or articular cartilage. None of the currently known mouse or human mutations clearly eliminate the function of the endogenous gene. Materials and Methods: Two new Ank alleles were generated using homologous recombination in mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells. Joint range of motion assays and μCT studies were used to quantitatively assess phenotypic severity in wildtype, heterozygous, and homozygous mice carrying either the null (Anknull) or original (Ankank) allele. A Gdf5-Cre expressing line was crossed to mice harboring the conditional (Ankfloxp) allele to eliminate ANK function specifically in the joints. Histological stains and β-galactosidase (LACZ) activity were used to determine the correlation between local loss of ANK function and defective joint phenotypes. Results:Anknull/Anknull mice develop severe ectopic postnatal crystal deposition in almost every joint of the body, leading to eventual joint fusion and loss of mobility. The severity of phenotype in these mice is indistinguishable from that of Ankank/Ankank mice. In addition, despite the widespread expression of Ank in many tissues, the specific deletion of Ank in joints also produces joint mineralization and ankylosis. Conclusions: These studies show that ANK function is required locally in joints to inhibit mineral formation and that the Ank gene plays a key role in postnatal maintenance of joint mobility and function.