cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fluorescence spectra and decay kinetics of 1,1'-binaphthyl and related compounds at high pressures

Abstract Relative to the sterically hindered model compounds (I) 2,2'-dimethoxy-1,1'-binaphthyl and (II) 3,3'-dimethyl-1,1'-binaphthyl-20-crown-6, the pressure dependence of the fluorescence of racemic crystals of 1,1'-binaphthyl (III) is complex. Compression to 40 kbar at room temperature shifts the 1 L a fluorescence spectra of all three compounds to longer wavelengths but, for I and II does not change the Intensity profile, except for some 0-0 reabsorption. For III, this red shift characteristic of 1 L a fluorescence spectra is dominated by growth of new bands about 3.5 to 5.0 × 10 cm −1 to lower energy. Similar new bands are observed when racemic 1,1'-binaphthyl crystals are compressed at 77 K or resolved crystals are compressed at room temperature, but are not found to 50 kbar for dilute solutions of 1,1'-binaphthyl in polyacrylonitrile. Time-resolved fluorescence spectra, excited at 285nm by doubling the 570nm cavity-dumped output of a mode-locked Spectra-Physics 375-01 rhodamin 6G dye laser synchronously pumped by a mode-locked Spectra-Physics 171-05 argon laser, show that the new bands originate from a state with a longer lifetime (τ = 2.0 nsec at 20 kbar) than the 1 L a state (τ = 1.1 nsec). The planes of adjacent naphthyl residues along → b in the racemic crystal are parallel but offset, the normal distance between planes being 355pm; Raman spectra provide no evidence for a structural phase transformation upon compression. These new bands are assigned as the binaphthyl excimer.
Approximate analytical solutions to the initial data problem of black hole binary systems

We present approximate analytical solutions to the Hamiltonian and momentum constraint equations, corresponding to systems composed of two black holes with arbitrary linear and angular momentum. The analytical nature of these initial data solutions makes them easier to implement in numerical evolutions than the traditional numerical approach of solving the elliptic equations derived from the Einstein constraints. Although in general the problem of setting up initial conditions for black hole binary simulations is complicated by the presence of singularities, we show that the methods presented in this work provide initial data with ${l}_{1}$ and ${l}_{\ensuremath{\infty}}$ norms of violation of the constraint equations falling below those of the truncation error (residual error due to discretization) present in finite difference codes for the range of grid resolutions currently used. Thus, these data sets are suitable for use in evolution codes. Detailed results are presented for the case of a head-on collision of two equal-mass M black holes with specific angular momentum $0.5M$ at an initial separation of $10M.$ A straightforward superposition method yields data adequate for resolutions of $h=M/4,$ and an ``attenuated'' superposition yields data usable to resolutions at least as fine as $h=M/8.$ In addition, the attenuated approximate data may be more tractable in a full (computational) exact solution to the initial value problem.
Mechanistic basis of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) occurs in 1% to 5% of patients treated with unfractionated high-molecular weight heparin and often results in limb- and/or life-threatening thrombotic complications. This disorder involves the formation of antibodies to a complex of Platelet Factor 4 (PF4) with the heparin. We believe that the pathogenesis of this disease begins with having an excess of platelet PF4 release. The freed PF4 is bound to platelet and other vascular membrane surfaces and has three critical roles in the initiation of HIT. (1) Infused heparin neutralizes a portion of excess surface PF4, directly enhancing local thrombosis. (2) The excess PF4 is mobilized into PF4/heparin complexes that stimulates HIT antibody production. (3) The remaining PF4 complexed to heparanoids and heparin on the vascular surfaces now bind to these HIT antibodies and through surface FcγRII receptors leads to more platelet activation and removal, thrombus formation, and inflammation. These events, in turn, further stimulate PF4 release, perpetuating repetitive cycle that results in the clinical manifestations of this disorder.
A Posteriori Error Estimate Analysis for BEM in Plate-Bending Problems

This article concerns the construction of a posteriori error estimates for the boundary element methods in plate-bending problems. The proposed approach allows one to assess the size of the error of a numerical solution through an accurate satisfaction of the prescribed boundary conditions. This error estimate analysis can also be used for boundary-type method formulations such as the Trefftz method, the boundary collocation method, and so on.
An efficient hybrid clustering algorithm for molecular sequences classification

The k-means clustering and hierarchical agglomerative clustering algorithms are two popular methods to partition data into groups. The k-means clustering algorithm heavily favors spherical clusters and does not deal with noise adequately. To overcome these problems, the profile Hidden Markov Models (HMMs) were used to establish a model for each cluster. However, this mixture method still randomly assigns the training data to one of the k clusters, which might cause the problem of generating empty groups. To solve this problem, we proposed a hybrid clustering method by using agglomerative hierarchical clustering algorithm to pre-cluster molecular sequences into k clusters and use the pre-clustered data to generate the HMM profile for each group. Experiments on a molecular sequence dataset demonstrate the effectiveness and the efficiency of the proposed clustering algorithm.
Resource-efficient regular expression matching architecture for text analytics

Text analytics systems, such as IBM's SystemT software, rely on regular expressions (regexs) and dictionaries for transforming unstructured data into a structured format. Unlike network intrusion detection systems, text analytics systems compute and report precisely where the specific and sensitive information starts and ends in a text document. Therefore, advanced regex matching functions, such as start-offset reporting, capturing groups, and leftmost match computation are heavily used in text analytics systems. We present a novel regex matching architecture that supports such functions in a resource-efficient way. The resource efficiency is achieved by 1) eliminating state replication, 2) avoiding expensive offset comparison operations in leftmost match computation, and 3) minimizing the number of offset registers. Experiments on regex sets from text analytics and network intrusion detection domains, using an Altera Stratix IV FPGA, show that the proposed architecture achieves a more than threefold reduction of the logic resources used and a more than 1.25-fold increase of the clock frequency with respect to a recently proposed architecture that supports identical features.
Protection from primary infection and establishment of latency by vaccination with a herpes simplex virus type 1 recombinant deficient in the virion host shutoff (vhs) function

A herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) recombinant virus deficient in the virion host shutoff (vhs) function was assessed for its ability to function as a live-attenuated vaccine. Protection of mice from wild-type challenge infection and the establishment and reactivation of HSV-1 latency was measured in a mouse ocular model. Challenge virus replication in corneas and trigeminal ganglia was significantly reduced for vaccinated mice. Consistent with these findings, the vaccinated groups showed no clinical signs during acute infection and high levels of virus-specific IgG and neutralizing antibodies were induced. The establishment of and reactivation from latency in trigeminal ganglia from the vaccinated group were also significantly reduced relative to controls. These data suggest that vhs deletion mutants may have significant utility as live-attenuated HSV-1 vaccines.
Segmental Interchange and Crossing-over

IN October last I published a working hypothesis for segmental interchange between homologous chromosomes (Proc. Nat. Acad. of Sciences, U.S.A., vol. 13, pp. 717, 718). Since that date, further work with liliaceous plants has led to an addition to this hypothesis.
Studies of monolayers using synchrotron X-ray diffraction

Abstract Diffraction of synchrotron X-rays is a powerful tool for studies of monolayers. In recent years, the emphasis of such studies has moved from physisorbed monolayers of rare gases or small molecules, to more extended molecules physisorbed or chemisorbed on liquid and solid surfaces. Diffraction studies of self-assembled and Langmuir films, successfully performed only during the past ten years, have dramatically increased our understanding of these scientifically and technologically important monolayer systems.
Configuring a Kanban system using a discrete optimization of multiple stochastic responses

This paper investigates the development of a production control strategy for a custom door manufacturer. A Kanban system is developed for the production environment. Simulation and discrete optimization techniques are applied to configure the system. The paper demonstrates that a Kanban approach can be applied to a production environment which neither represents a pure flow shop nor contains balanced production processes. It also highlights the difficulties that can arise in performing a discrete optimization upon conflicting multiple stochastic responses.
The solution of the Waterloo problem

Abstract Let D(d, q) be a classical (ν, k, λ)-Singer difference set in a cyclic group G corresponding to the complement of the point-hyperplane design of PG(d, q) (d ⩾ 1). We characterize those Singer difference sets D(d, q) which admit a “Waterloo decomposition” D = A ∪ B such that (A − B) · (A − B)(−1) = k in Z G: Theorem. D(d, q) admits a Waterloo decomposition if and only if d is even.
Design and evaluation of storage organizations for read-optimized main memory databases

Existing main memory data processing systems employ a variety of storage organizations and make a number of storage-related design choices. The focus of this paper is on systematically evaluating a number of these key storage design choices for main memory analytical (i.e. read-optimized) database settings. Our evaluation produces a number of key insights: First, it is always beneficial to organize data into self-contained memory blocks rather than large files. Second, both column-stores and row-stores display performance advantages for different types of queries, and for high performance both should be implemented as options for the tuple-storage layout. Third, cache-sensitive B+-tree indices can play a major role in accelerating query performance, especially when used in a block-oriented organization. Finally, compression can also play a role in accelerating query performance depending on data distribution and query selectivity.
Forms of government and spending on common municipal functions: a longitudinal approach:

This study analyses whether reformed cities (council-manager form) spend less than unreformed cities (mayor-council and commission forms) by examining per capita spending on common municipal functi...
Simultaneous Calculation of Dynamical and Equilibrium Properties of Atomistic Systems using an Ensemble of Weighted Trajectories

Equilibrium can be represented as an ensemble of trajectories undergoing dynamics in which detailed balance is maintained. Here, we present results for a simulation protocol based on the “weighted ensemble” (WE) approach of Huber and Kim in which weak coupling between parallel simulations can capture both dynamical and equilibrium properties without statistical bias. The approach is demonstrated in two molecular systems: alanine di-peptide and chignolin, a 10 residue mini-protein. We present results for the mean first passage time between arbitrary states and demonstrate the rapid convergence towards equilibrium for chignolin in comparison to a brute force simulation. Importantly, the analysis of weighted ensemble trajectories does not require states to be defined in advance, and therefore permits the calculation of rates between arbitrary states selected after the simulation is run. We also describe a history-dependent Markov-like formulation to correct for a potentially significant bias in kinetic properties measured from equilibrium WE simulations.
2-Bromopalmitate and 2-(2-hydroxy-5-nitro-benzylidene)benzo[b]thiophen-3-one inhibit DHHC-mediated palmitoylation in vitro

Pharmacologic approaches to studying palmitoylation are limited by the lack of specific inhibitors. Recently, screens have revealed five chemical classes of small molecules that inhibit cellular processes associated with palmitoylation (Ducker, C. E., L. K. Griffel, R. A. Smith, S. N. Keller, Y. Zhuang, Z. Xia, J. D. Diller, and C. D. Smith. 2006. Discovery and characterization of inhibitors of human palmitoyl acyltransferases. Mol. Cancer Ther. 5: 1647–1659). Compounds that selectively inhibited palmitoylation of N-myristoylated vs. farnesylated peptides were identified in assays of palmitoyltransferase activity using cell membranes. Palmitoylation is catalyzed by a family of enzymes that share a conserved DHHC (Asp-His-His-Cys) cysteine-rich domain. In this study, we evaluated the ability of these inhibitors to reduce DHHC-mediated palmitoylation using purified enzymes and protein substrates. Human DHHC2 and yeast Pfa3 were assayed with their respective N-myristoylated substrates, Lck and Vac8. Human DHHC9/GCP16 and yeast Erf2/Erf4 were tested using farnesylated Ras proteins. Surprisingly, all four enzymes showed a similar profile of inhibition. Only one of the novel compounds, 2-(2-hydroxy-5-nitro-benzylidene)-benzo[b]thiophen-3-one [Compound V (CV)], and 2-bromopalmitate (2BP) inhibited the palmitoyltransferase activity of all DHHC proteins tested. Hence, the reported potency and selectivity of these compounds were not recapitulated with purified enzymes and their cognate lipidated substrates. Further characterization revealed both compounds blocked DHHC enzyme autoacylation and displayed slow, time-dependent inhibition but differed with respect to reversibility. Inhibition of palmitoyltransferase activity by CV was reversible, whereas 2BP inhibition was irreversible.
Effects of bleomycin and irradiation on euoxic and hypoxic cells

Abstract EMT6 cells in vitro were exposed to bieomycin (BLM), either alone (under euoxic or hypoxic conditions) or in con junction with X-radiation. Hypoxic and euoxic cells were equally sensitive to the drug in both of the systems used to induce hypoxia (ampules or chambers). Exposure to BLM immediately before X-irradiation altered the shape of the radiation survival curve decreasing the Do by a factor of 1.3. Simultaneous exposure to X-ray and BIM resulted in lower survivals than when radiation was given either before or after drug treatment. Cells recovered quickly from BIM damage B trypsinization was delayed. The results indicate that BIM and X-rays interact to lower cell survival but that cells recover from this effect if trypsinization is delayed.
Role of Quinone Metabolites in PAH Carcinogenesis

Abstract Evidence concerning the role of dihydrodiol dehydrogenase-catalyzed formation of quinone metabolites in the mechanism in PAH carcinogenesis is reviewed and methods for the synthesis of the adducts formed by reaction of PAH quinone metabolites with DNA are reported.
Spherical cap harmonic analysis of potential anomalies over the main land of China

SUMMARY It is significant to analysis potential field anomaly data over the surface of the earth with spherical cap harmonic analysis method. This paper gave a simple introduction to spherical cap harmonic analysis method and to its calculating steps. Authors had sampled data of aeromagnetic anomalies, geomagnetic anomalies, Bouguer gravity anomalies and satellite gravity anomalies over the main land of China and had analysised these data with spherical cap harmonic analysis method. Different degrees and orders of spherical cap harmonic functions of potential field anomalies contained useful information about geostructures underground. A preliminary geological interpretation of these maps had been done.
A global attracting set for nonlocal Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equations arising in interfacial electrohydrodynamics

We study a generalized class of nonlocal evolution equations which includes those arising in the modelling of electrified film flow down an inclined plane, with applications in enhanced heat or mass transfer through interfacial turbulence. Global existence and uniqueness results are proved and refined estimates of the radius of the absorbing ball in are obtained in terms of the parameters of the equations (the length of the system and the dimensionless electric field-measuring parameter multiplying the nonlocal term). The established estimates are compared with numerical solutions of the equations which in turn suggest an optimal upper bound for the radius of the absorbing ball. A scaling argument is used to explain this and a general conjecture is made based on extensive computations.
The role of late gadolinium enhancement of the right ventricular insertion point predicts survival in patients with pulmonary hypertension

Methods We evaluated 83 consecutive patients with suspected PH referred for CMR between January 2009 and July 2010. Imaging was performed on a Philips 1.5T MRI scanner. Retrospectively gated cines of a short axis stack were obtained using SSFP (temporal resolution 25-40 ms). LGE images of the same views were obtained 10 minutes after infusion of Gd-DTPA (0.2 mmol/kg) using phase sensitive inversion recovery (TR 4.5 ms, TE 2.2 ms, TI 200-300 ms, flip angle 30°, PSIR flip angle 5°, voxel size 2x2x10mm, sense factor 2). The cines were used to determine RV volume, ejection fraction (RVEF) and mass. Two readers blinded to hemodynamic, functional, and laboratory data jointly determined the presence of RVIP-LGE. A subgroup of these patients underwent right heart catheterization (n=40) and exercise testing (n=54). Medical records and social security death index were reviewed on a monthly basis for occurrence of primary endpoint (hospitalization for PH
Immunopathology and Histopathology of Experimental Chlamydial Salpingitis

Experimental infection of fallopian tubes was produced in four sexually mature pig-tailed monkeys (Macaca nemestrina) by intratubal inoculation with serovar E or F Chlamydia trachomatis. Infection was confirmed by reisolation of the organism from both the endosalpinx and the endocervix. An antibody response to the infecting strain of C. trachomatis was demonstrated in monkey sera and in cervical secretions by the microimmunofluorescence test. A cellular immune response to C. trachomatis was shown by the in vitro lymphocyte transformation assay. Histopathologic examination of the endosalpinx following infection showed epithelial degeneration and deciliation of ciliated cells. Lymphocytic infiltration into both submucosa and mucosa was present at day 7 and approximated areas of epithelial cell degeneration. Two control monkeys remained unresponsive throughout the study. These results indicate that the pig-tailed macaque should be a suitable model for further studies of the pathogenesis of, immune responses to, and therapy for acute C. trachomatis salpingitis.
Discovering structures in gene regulatory networks using genetic programming and particle swarms

In this paper, we describe a Genetic Programming and Particle Swarm Hybrid algorithm for Gene Network discovery.
Aerosol-cloud interactions in the NASA GMI: model development and indirect forcing assessments

Abstract. This study uses the NASA Global Modeling Initiative (GMI) 3-D chemical transport model (CTM) for assessments of indirect forcing and its sensitivity to the treatment of aerosol, aerosol-cloud interactions and meteorological fields. Three different meteorological datasets from NASA Data Assimilation Office (DAO), NASA finite volume GCM (FVGCM) and the Goddard Institute for Space Studies version II' (GISS II') GCM were used. GMI is ideal for this study as different model components (such as meteorological fields and chemical mechanisms) can easily be interchanged under the same model framework to capture the first aerosol indirect effect (AIE), and its sensitivity to parameterizations and meteorological fields. Cloud droplet number concentration was calculated by implementing both diagnostic and physically based droplet parameterizations. Derived cloud properties, such as cloud optical thickness and effective radius were compared with the remotely sensed data from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). GMI was able to capture the spatial variability and the land-ocean contrast observed in the satellite record. Depending on the meteorological field and droplet parameterization used, the annual mean first AIE ranged from −0.99 to −1.48 W m −2 . It is found that, roughly 80% of the variation is attributed to changes in the meteorology (primarily from variations in liquid water path), while the remaining 20% is attributed to different cloud droplet parameterizations.
Conformations of single chains of conjugated polymers by plasmon-enhanced Raman scattering

Plasmon-enhanced vibrational Raman spectroscopy enables us to learn about the conformations of single molecules. Here, we report surface-enhanced Raman studies of single chains of the widely studied model conjugated polymer, MEH-PPV. We will provide evidence that field localization on nanotextured silver surfaces is so strong that, remarkably, scattering from a single chromophore out of hundreds dominates the Raman spectrum. We observe wide variation of spectra from chain to chain and strong temporal fluctuations in the Raman spectrum and intensity for individual chains of MEH-PPV. In some cases, we are able to clearly associate these fluctuations with photochemistry and polaron formation. In most cases, however, we believe that local conformational changes in the polymer are responsible for the fluctuations.
Optical materials: Self-assembly reaches new heights.

Supramolecular engineering using self-assembly aims to develop complex functional materials and devices. The fabrication of acentric organic films by physical vapour deposition for electro-optic applications illustrates the potential of such bio-inspired approaches.
Membrane phospholipid abnormalities in postmortem brains from schizophrenic patients

Previous studies in schizophrenia have shown alterations in membrane phospholipids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. However, these studies have primarily examined peripheral (non-neuronal) cell types. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether the membrane deficits seen in peripheral tissues are also observed in the brain. The caudate was the primary region of interest for this study. Using high-pressure liquid chromatography in conjunction with an evaporative light-scattering detector, we first measured the level of various membrane phospholipids (PL) in schizophrenic (n=11) and control groups with (n=7) and without (n=14) other mental disorders. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were then determined by capillary gas chromatography. Within groups, there are no significant correlations between membrane PL levels and other collection and demographic parameters including age, postmortem interval, storage time and brain weight. Significantly lower amounts of phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine were found in postmortem brain tissue from schizophrenic patients than in those from control groups, even after accounting for potential confounds. In addition, strong reductions of total PUFAs and saturated fatty acids were found in schizophrenic brains, relative to control brains. Specifically, the reduced PUFAs were largely attributable to decreases in arachidonic acid (AA) and, to a lesser extent, its precursors, linoleic and eicosadienoic acids. There are no significant differences between the control groups with and without other mental disorders. The present findings suggest that deficits identified in peripheral membranes may also be present in the brain from schizophrenic patients. Such a deficit in membrane AA may contribute to the many biological, physiological, and clinical phenomena observed in schizophrenia.
The Use of an Analog Computer in Side-On Arc Spectroscopy

An analog computer which solves Abel’s integral equation is described and its application to the side-on spectroscopic study of high-current arcs is illustrated. By its use radially resolved spectra of cylindrically symmetric inhomogeneous sources are obtained with the same speed and simplicity as are spectra of homogeneous sources. Comparison of NI transition probability measurements using this computer with those using conventional numerical radial resolution techniques indicates that the computer errors are negligible.
Fast planar clustering and polygon extraction from noisy range images acquired in indoor environments

This paper presents a novel algorithm to cluster planar points and extract polygons from 3D range images acquired in an indoor environment. The algorithm replaces large number of data points in the range image with polygons that fits the planar regions of the indoor environment resulting in high data compression. The 3D range image is acquired by panning a laser scanner and the data is stored in a 2D array. The elements in the array are stored as spherical coordinates and the indices of the array retain neighborhood information. The array is segmented into small patches and Hessian plane parameters are computed for each planar patch. We propose a Breadth First Search (BFS) graph-search algorithm to compare the plane parameters of neighboring patches and cluster the coplanar patches into respective planes. Experimental result shows 94.67% average compression rate for indoor scans. In addition, the algorithm shows a vast improvement in speed when compared to an improvised region-growing algorithm that extracts polygons from range images.
Acquired oral reading vocabulary following the onset of amnesia in childhood

While the neuropsychological literature includes few cases of child-onset amnesia, 2 previous case studies suggest that these patients may be able to learn new information of a semantic or academic nature. The previous studies were, in large part, based on neuropsychological testing performed during adulthood and a retrospective review of academic achievement test scores during childhood. We present patient A.C., who acquired severe anterograde amnesia at age 10 years but demonstrated average levels of performance on tests of reading, spelling and arithmetic upon examination at age 19 years. Episodic and semantic memory test scores were severely impaired, but near normal performances were found on tests of implicit and procedural memory. In a prospective study, A.C. learned to read new irregular and pseudowords and retained this learning over a 1-month period, similar to the performance of age-matched controls. This demonstration of postmorbid, acquired oral reading vocabulary supports a previous conclusion that oral reading can progress in childhood following the onset of severe anterograde amnesia. The data also suggest that this new learning probably reflects nondeclarative memory processes rather than preservation of semantic memory, as was proposed in an earlier case study.
III.— Note on the Faunal Succession in the Carboniferous Limestone (Avonian) near Llantrisant Station in the Bridgend Area, South Wales

During the autumn of 1909, I made a short excursion into the Bridgend district and examined the Avonian sequence near Llantrisant. The present note embodies the results of a few traverses and suggests a correlation with the sequence already established at other points of the South-West Province.
$\hbox{Al}_{2}\hbox{O}_{3}$ -Based RRAM Using Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) With 1- $\mu\hbox{A}$ RESET Current

Al2O3-based RRAM devices were fabricated using atomic layer deposition under 100°C and 300°C deposition temperatures, respectively, and their resistance-switching behaviors were investigated. Both devices show unipolar switching if the top electrode (TE) is made of Ti/Al, whereas the bipolar phenomenon is observed when TE is pure aluminum. Devices fabricated at higher temperature give better uniformity and higher resistance ratio. Ultralow RESET current (~1 μA) was obtained, together with adequate voltage margin.
Current/voltage analysis of SC networks

The current/voltage analysis of switched-capacitor networks is presented. The approach is a simple and more general alternative to the existing charge/voltage analysis. Switched capacitor networks are analyzed, using the rules of classical network theory. The pulse impedance of a switched capacitor is obtained and the impedance concept is retained. Synthesis of the pulse impedance using classical network methods is accomplished. The discrete voltage transfer function is derived from the switched-capacitor network. This follows the pattern of electrical network theory and leads to design and realization of digital filters. >
Two cell cycle blocks caused by iron chelation of neuroblastoma cells: separating cell cycle events associated with each block

Studies have presented evidence that besides the well described S phase block, treatment of cancer cell lines with the iron chelator deferrioxamine (DFO) also results in an earlier block in G1 phase. In this article, measurements of cell cycle regulatory proteins define this block at a very specific point in G1. DFO treatment results in markedly decreased cyclin A protein levels. Cyclin E levels that accumulate in early to mid-G1 are increased in cells treated with DFO as compared to the resting cells. The DFO S phase block is shown after cells are arrested at G1/S by (aphidicolin) then released into DFO. The same S phase block occurs with DFO treatment of a neuroblastoma cell line relatively resistant to the G1 DFO block. These experiments clearly differentiate the S phase DFO block from the earlier block pinpointed to a point in mid-G1, before G1/S when cyclin E protein increases but before increased cyclin A synthesis. Apoptosis was observed in cells inhibited by DFO at both cell cycle arrest points.
Detection of occult melanoma by preoperative positron emission tomography-computed tomography and intraoperative ultrasonography.

Background:18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET-CT) has become a common imaging modality for detecting metastatic melanoma. However, the identification of lesions intraoperatively can be difficult.Objective/Methods:We describe an innovative multimodality approach to tumor localization using preoperative PET-CT and intraoperative ultrasonography and describe cases in which this technique was used.Results:The use of these two modalities together enabled resection of multiple occult metastatic lesions in the patients presented.Conclusion:The use of this multimodality approach will be important in ensuring that all known metastatic disease sites are resected and represents an important concept in the setting of metastatic melanoma resection.
Guaranteed stability control design using parameter estimation data: detailed analysis of a first order system

The author discusses a guaranteed stability control design for an unknown high-order system with the nominal part being first order. A frequency bounding function on the structured uncertainty is given. The results can carry over to the case in which the nominal part is unstable or the case in which it is a second-order system. Extension to higher order cases is not obvious. >
Interactions between Intergovernmental and Scientific Organizations in Marine Affairs

A likely outcome of the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment is the establishment of a mechanism within the United Nations to facilitate intergovernmental actions on environmental problems. While the actions themselves will be taken by governments, the intergovernmental body will have a stimulating and coordinating role. A basic problem will be to evaluate the impact of human activities on the environment and to predict the consequences of alternative corrective actions. Rather than attempting to provide the intergovernmental group with a staff that is expert in all aspects of the problem, it will probably be more effective to create means for continuing interaction with appropriate specialists throughout the world. This can be done directly with the experts as individuals, in which case the intergovernmental body is responsible for their selection, or with the nongovernmental associations that the specialists have formed for their own purposes. In the former case, the intergovernmental group may get more thorough consideration of the specific problems it has identified, but it is less likely to benefit from the broad overview and critical monitoring provided by an independent external body. In the field of marine affairs, there is a long history of interaction between governmental and nongovernmental groups that may provide useful experience and examples for the broader environmental problems. Management of exploitation of living resources is probably most analogous to management of the environment, in that decisions must be based on a mix of scientific, economic, social, and political factors. It is
Endogenous opioid systems regulate growth of neural tumor cells in culture.

Endogenous opioid systems (i.e., opioids and opioid receptors) play a role in neural cancer. Using a tissue culture system of S20Y murine neuroblastoma to assess the effects of opioids on growth, [Met5]-enkephalin was the most potent compound to influence cell replication. With a median effective concentration of 10(-10) M, this peptide inhibited cell proliferation in a stereospecific and naloxone-reversible manner. [Met5]-Enkephalin depressed both DNA synthesis and mitosis. [Met5]-Enkephalin was detected in neuroblastoma cells by radioimmunoassay, and was found to increase in concentration in culture media over time, suggesting that these cells produced the peptide. Immunocytochemistry showed [Met5]-enkephalin-like activity in the cortical cytoplasm, but not the cell nucleus, of neuroblastoma cells. Binding of [3H]-[Met5]-enkephalin specific and saturable, and Scatchard analysis yielded a Kd of 1.2 +/- 0.1 nM and a binding capacity of 50.2 +/- 4.3 fmol/mg protein. [Met5]-Enkephalin also depressed the growth of N115 murine neuroblastoma, SK-N-MC human neuroblastoma, and HT-1080 human fibrosarcoma. These results indicate that [Met5]-enkephalin, a naturally occurring pentapeptide that is derived from proenkephalin A, is a potent inhibitor of cell growth. Since cancer cells produce [Met5]-enkephalin, and contain a binding site to this ligand, endogenous opioid systems appear to control cell proliferation by an autocrine mechanism.
The effect of articular malposition after total shoulder arthroplasty on glenohumeral translations, range of motion, and subacromial impingement

The articular surface of the normal humeral head has a variable posterior and medial offset with respect to the central axis of the humeral shaft. Recreation of the normal humeral head shaft offset is postulated to be an important consideration during shoulder arthroplasty. However, the effect of humeral head malposition is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of articular malposition after total shoulder arthroplasty on glenohumeral translation, range of motion, and subacromial impingement. Twenty-one human cadavers were dissected and tested with the use of an active or passive shoulder model. Range of motion and translation were recorded by means of an electromagnetic tracking device. The experiment was performed in 2 phases. For kinematics study, 11 cadaver shoulders were positioned both passively and actively from maximum internal rotation to maximum external rotation at 90° of total elevation in the scapular plane. Three rotator cuff and 3 deltoid muscle lines of action were simulated for active joint positioning. Passive joint positioning was accomplished with the use of a torque wrench and a nominal centering force. The testing protocol was used for the natural joint as well as for 9 prosthetic head locations: centered and 2- and 4-mm offsets in the anterior, posterior, inferior, and superior directions. Repeatedmeasures analysis of variance was used to test for significant differences in the range of motion and translation between active and passive positioning of the natural joint
Adaptive, selective, automatic tonal enhancement of faces

This paper presents an efficient, personalizable and yet completely automatic algorithm for enhancing the brightness, tonal balance, and contrast of faces in thumbnails of online videos where multiple colored illumination sources are the norm and artifacts such as poor illumination and backlight are common. These artifacts significantly lower the perceptual quality of faces and skin, and cannot be easily corrected by common global image transforms. The same identifiable user, however, often uploads or participates in multiple photos, videos, or video chat sessions with varying illumination conditions. The proposed algorithm adaptively transforms the skin pixels in a poor illumination environment to match the skin color model of a prototypical face of the same user in a better illumination environment. It leaves the remaining non-skin portions of the image virtually unchanged while ascertaining a smooth, natural appearance. A component of our system automatically selects such a prototypical face for each user given a collection of uploaded videos/photo albums or prior video chat sessions by that user. We present several human rating studies on YouTube data that quantitatively demonstrate significant improvement in facial quality using the proposed algorithm.
A High-Resolution MEMS Piezoelectric Strain Sensor for Structural Vibration Detection

This paper presents the modeling, fabrication, and testing of a high-performance dynamic strain sensor. Using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology, ZnO piezoelectric microsensors are directly fabricated on silicon and steel substrates. The sensors are intended to be used as point sensors for vibration sensing without putting an extra burden on the host structures. A model that incorporates piezoelectric effects into an RC circuit, representing the sensor architecture, is developed to describe the voltage output characteristics of the piezoelectric microsensors. It is shown that the sensitivity of microplanar piezoelectric sensors that utilize the e 31 effect is linearly proportional to sensor thickness but unrelated to sensor area. Sensor characterization was performed on a cantilever beam cut from a fabricated silicon wafer. The experimental data indicate that the overall sensor and circuit system is capable of resolving better than 40.3 nanostrain time domain signal at frequencies above 2 kHz. The corresponding noise floor is lower than 200 femto-strain per root hertz and the sensitivity, defined as the sensor voltage output over strain input, is calculated to be 340 V/epsiv . Micro ZnO piezoelectric sensors fabricated on steel hard disk drive suspensions also show excellent results. The sensor not only has a better signal-to-noise ratio but also detects more vibration information than the combination of two laser-Doppler-vibrometer measurements in different directions.
Streptomyces albus: a new cause of hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an immunologic lung disease known to be induced by the inhalation of either organic or inorganic antigens, and it may thus be associated with a variety of occupations and microorganisms. To identify an inciting allergen, environmental, bacteriologic, immunologic, and bronchial challenge studies must be employed. These techniques were used to demonstrate that a bacterium uniformly present in processed dirt, Streptomyces albus, was responsible for a biopsy-proven case of hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
Influence of wavefront dynamics on transmembrane potential characteristics during atrial fibrillation.

Transmembrane Potential Characteristics. Introduction: Although computerized mapping studies have demonstrated the presence of multiple wavelets during atrial fibrillation (AF) and that action potential amplitude and duration in AF vary significantly from beat to heat, no study has correlated the single cell action potential changes with the patterns of activation during AF. Methods and Results: We studied wavefront dynamics and single cell transmembrane potential (TMP) characteristics in 12 isolated perfused canine right atria. The endocardial surface was mapped using 477 bipolar electrodes while TMP was recorded with a standard glass microelectrode from an epicardial cell. AF was induced in the presence of acetylcholine. Successful simultaneous TMP recordings and activation maps were made during six episodes of AF and for a total of 141 activations. Large variations of TMP amplitude and duration were observed frequently; 34% of them have a low amplitude (<50% of the amplitude recorded during pacing). Low-amplitude potentials were recorded when the impaled cell was (1) in an area of random reentry (67%, n = 36); (2) within 3.2 mm of the core of organized functional reentry (22%, n = 12); (3) in the middle of two merging wavefronts (9%, n = 5); and (4) at the point of spontaneous wavebreak (2%, n = 1). Conclusion: Large variations of TMP are observed frequently during in vitro AF. Low-amplitude TMPs are associated with specific patterns of AF activation wavefronts.
Septins May Form a Ubiquitous Family of Cytoskeletal Filaments

HIS minireview discusses recent information about the septin family of proteins, which suggests that the septins may be elements of a new filament system that functions in all or most eukaryotic cells. Septins are found in a wide variety of eukaryotes, are important for cytokinesis, and may compose or regulate a ubiquitous filament system that has not been previously recognized. A more extensive review of septins was recently published (26). This minireview also presents a new comparison of septin sequences. Actin filaments, microtubules, intermediate filaments, and myosin thick filaments, have been extensively studied over the past several decades, using methodologic advances in electron and light microscopy, detergent extraction of cells, and purification of proteins. This collection of filaments has been assumed to represent a fairly complete picture of the cytoskeletal filaments commonly found in eukaryotes. However, recent work suggests that cells augment these common cytoskeletal elements with additional elements, at least one of which, the septins, appears to be widely expressed and used for essential cell processes.
Performance analysis of both hybrid and frequency-hopped phase-coherent spread-spectrum systems. I. A hybrid DS/FH system

The authors present and analyze a model for both hybrid and frequency-hopped spread-spectrum systems in which a fully digital coherent receiver is used to demodulate the data. A receiver for a hybrid DS/FH (direct-sequence/frequency-hopped) system using a digital delay-lock loop is considered. In the absence of frequency uncertainty, it is shown that the tracking error can be modeled as an ergodic Markov chain with a finite-state set, and the probability density function of the steady-state tracking error is evaluated. When there is a frequency uncertainty, the dynamics of the resulting nonstationary phase error can be obtained, and an expression to evaluate the probability distribution of the first time at which the phase error hits predetermined boundary values is derived. Bit error rate performance is determined in the presence of both additive white Gaussian noise and various types of interference, and the performance is compared to that of noncoherent FSK systems. >
Distributed Formation Control While Preserving Connectedness

This paper addresses the connectedness issue in multi-agent coordination, i.e. the problem of ensuring that the group stays connected while achieving some performance objective. In particular, we continue our previous work on rendezvous control and extend it to the formation control problem over dynamic interaction graphs. By adding appropriate weights to the edges in the graphs, we guarantee that the graphs stay connected, while achieving the desired formations.
Ultrabroadband frequency comb generation at 1 μm in a silicon-nitride ring resonator

We demonstrate broadband frequency comb generation from a single-frequency pump laser at 1 μm using parametric oscillation in a silicon nitride ring resonator. The comb spans 97 THz with a 230-GHz free spectral range.
Effects of Skim Milk, Whole Milk and Light Cream on Serum Tryptophan Binding and Brain Tryptophan Concentrations in Rats

One hour after rats fasted for 13 hours consume a single meal of skim milk, whole milk, or light cream, serum nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations changed in direct proportion to the fat content of the diet: serum NEFA levels decreased in rats ingesting skim milk (0.09% fat) to 34% of fasting control values; in animals consuming whole milk (3.59% fat), levels dropped to 50% of fasting levels; these levels did not change significantly, however, in rats consuming light cream (18.26% fat). The percentages of total serum tryptophan not associated with albumin in rats ingesting skim milk, whole milk, or light cream were 22.2, 26.0, and 42.5%, respectively. These variations in serum free tryptophan were not accompanied by significant differences in brain tryptophan among the three treatment groups. These results thus confirm that, with a natural food source, (a) postprandial serum NEFA levels reflect the total fat content of the diet; (b) serum free tryptophan concentration shift proportionately with serum NEFA; and (c) serum free tryptophan concentrations do not reliably predict brain tryptophan levels.
The High-Tech Economy, Work, and Democracy 2.0

The current techno-economic transformation, or Algorithmic Revolution, has wide- ranging consequences for society, posing many challenges of economic policy. At a macro level, it has been associated with rising inequality, “disruption” of many economic sectors, and the destruction of many jobs as well as the creation of others, with still unknown net effects. At the micro level, it has generated a particular type of employment relations: while the industrial revolution was associated with wage labor, often in large concentrations of workers, the current revolution is associated with a shift from employees to what might be called micro-entrepreneurs, who are often widely dispersed. This paper addresses the political effects of these transformations — specifically the effects on the structure of popular interest representation regarding these policies of economic regulation. These changes may be profoundly affecting the nature of mass democracy in the 21st century, or Democracy 2.0.The new worlds of work, by atomizing workers and challenging unions, makes collective action more difficult, particularly around “productionist” policies — micro and macro economic outcomes of the techno-economic transformation as it unfolds. A host of important questions are raised. What role can unions still play in addressing these issues? Can other organizations, which have emerged around other kinds of issues, engage economic or productionist policies effectively? What is the role of social media in coordinating action not only for protest but also for organizing and providing policy input? Through raising these questions, this paper proposes an agenda of comparative research for examining the capacity of citizens to engage the policies that may guide the goals of technology development, how technology is implemented, and how its social and economic consequences are regulated.