cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Potentially large equilibrium climate sensitivity tail uncertainty

Abstract Equilibrium climate sensitivity (ECS), the link between concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and eventual global average temperatures, has been persistently and perhaps deeply uncertain. Its ‘likely’ range has been approximately between 1.5 and 4.5 degrees Centigrade for almost 40 years (Wagner and Weitzman, 2015) . Moreover, Roe and Baker (2007), Weitzman (2009), and others have argued that its right-hand tail may be long, ‘fat’ even. Enter Cox et al. (2018), who use an ‘emergent constraint’ approach to characterize the probability distribution of ECS as having a central or best estimate of 2.8 °C with a 66% confidence interval of 2.2–3.4 °C. This implies, by their calculations, that the probability of ECS exceeding 4.5 °C is less than 1%. They characterize such kind of result as “renewing hope that we may yet be able to avoid global warming exceeding 2[°C]”. We share the desire for less uncertainty around ECS Weitzman (2011) , Wagner and Weitzman (2015) . However, we are afraid that the upper-tail emergent constraint on ECS is largely a function of the assumed normal error terms in the regression analysis. We do not attempt to evaluate Cox et al. (2018)’s physical modeling (aside from the normality assumption), leaving that task to physical scientists. We take Cox et al. (2018)’s 66% confidence interval as given and explore the implications of applying alternative probability distributions. We find, for example, that moving from a normal to a log-normal distribution, while giving identical probabilities for being in the 2.2–3.4 °C range, increases the probability of exceeding 4.5 °C by over five times. Using instead a fat-tailed Pareto distribution, an admittedly extreme case, increases the probability by over forty times.
Anatomy and physiology of the leptomeninges and CSF space

The arachnoid membrane and pia mater are the two membranous layers that comprise the leptomeninges. Cerebrospinal fluid is made within the ventricular system by cells of the choroid plexus and ependyma. This chapter describes in detail the normal anatomic structure and physiologic interactions of the cerebrospinal fluid and leptomeningeal space that are critical to our understanding and treatment of leptomeningeal metastases.
Relations between early maternal sensitivity and toddler self-regulation: Exploring variation by oxytocin and dopamine D2 receptor genes.

Gene-by-environment interactions between maternal sensitivity during infancy and child oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR rs53576) and D2 dopamine receptor gene (DRD2 TaqIA, rs1822497) genotypes were explored as predictors of toddlers' well-regulated behavioral and physiological responses to maternal compliance demands. Maternal sensitivity was assessed across a range of mother-child interactions when children were 6 months and 1 year of age (N = 186), and toddler self-regulatory responses were assessed through compliance and vagal withdrawal during a toy clean-up task when children were 2 years of age. Sensitivity-by-OXTR interactions suggested two diathesis-stress patterns, predicting compliance for the GG genotype group, and predicting physiological regulation for the AA/AG genotype group. A main effect for DRD2 genotype indicated that children with an A1 allele displayed less-compliant behavior in toddlerhood. These results suggest that genetic differences may contribute to variation both in risk for self-regulatory difficulties, and in relations between maternal sensitivity and children's responses to compliance demands at different levels of analysis.
PERSISTENT EXPRESSION OF INFLUENZA VIRUS NUCLEOPROTEIN IN RECOMBINANT DNA TRANSFECTED MOUSE CELLS

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the construction of NP–BPV recombinant DNA and isolation of such recombinant DNA transformants that produce influenza virus NP. To construct NP–BPV recombinant DNA, the Bam HI cleaved full-length NP DNA was inserted into the Bgl II site located between the MT promoter and the SV40 polyA addition site of cloned vector DNA containing the pML2 moiety (a derivative of pBR322). The recombinant DNA containing the NP DNA inserted in the sense transcription orientation was selected and partially digested to open either of the two remaining Bam HI sites: one located within the NP gene and the other located downstream of the SV40 polyA addition sequence. The NP–BPV recombinants that contained BPV DNA inserted at the Bam HI site located downstream of the SV40 polyA site were selected. The chapter illustrates the final construct of NP–BPV DNA in which the transcription orientation of the BPV insert is opposite to the transcription direction of the NP gene.
Sulfur Metabolism among Hyperthermophiles

Sulfur biochemistry figures prominently in the bioenergetics of many strictly anaerobic hyperthermophiles (organisms capable of growth to at least 90°C). Sulfidogenesis by the reduction of elemental sulfur to sulfide is common among the deepest phylogenetic branches of extant microbes (Figure 1). These sulfidogens are all hyperthermophiles and most are Archaea. The capacity to carry out elemental sulfur reduction is found in both archaeal lineages. Two groups of Bacteria, the Thermotogales and Aquifecales, are also hyperthermophilic sulfidogens. Other forms of sulfur metabolism are also found among hyperthermophiles including sulfate reduction by the archaeon Archaeoglobus and sulfur oxidation by Sulfolobus and its relatives. Examples of each of these will be considered here. For many of these organisms, we do not know if the organism derives any energy from carrying out sulfur reduction. This review will compare mechanisms of sulfidogenesis in selected hyperthermophiles to highlight features that might shed light on the mechanisms and evolution of this metabolism.
Values as Critique and the Critique of Values: Voegelin and Schutz on Theory in the Social Sciences

After briefly presenting Eric Voegelin’s general theoretical framework, this paper highlights the differences between Voegelin and Schutz in regard to three issues in their correspondence: 1) the place of epistemology in theory 2) the role of general theory with relation to values, and 3) the interpretation of Husserl’s Crisis. The article concludes that a value-oriented theory, such as Voegelin’s, and a value-neutral theory, such as Schutz ’s, converge on certain ethical concerns about the role of theory.
Looking into the Future of Workflows: The Challenges Ahead

In this chapter, we take a step back from the individual applications and software systems and attempt to categorize the types of issues that we are facing today and the challenges we see ahead. This is by no means a complete picture of the challenges but rather a set of observations about the various aspects of workflow management. In a broad sense, we are organizing our thoughts in terms of the different workflow systems discussed in this book, from the user interface down to the execution environment.
OPTIMAL PLASTIC DESIGN OF RINGS

ABSTRACT Optimal plastic design of a circular sandwich ring is discussed under the following assumptions: (1) The loading is symmetric with respect to two orthogonal diameters of the ring; (2) a minimum plastic resistance is prescribed for the cross sections; (3) the cost of any stronger cross section is proportional to the excess of the plastic resistance of the actual cross section over the minimum plastic resistance.
TCT-640 Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement Outcomes in Patients on Dialysis: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Dialysis is associated with higher rate of aortic valve calcification and higher cardiovascular mortality. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an approved alternative for aortic valve placement in patients with intermediate and higher comorbidities including dialysis. This study aims to
Preventing Lck Activation in CAR T Cells Confers Treg Resistance but Requires 4-1BB Signaling for Them to Persist and Treat Solid Tumors in Nonlymphodepleted Hosts

Purpose: Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have shown promise against solid tumors, but their efficacy has been limited, due in part, to immunosuppression by CD4+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs). Although lymphodepletion is commonly used to deplete Tregs, these regimens are nonspecific, toxic, and provide only a narrow window before Tregs repopulate hosts. Importantly, CARs have also been shown to inadvertently potentiate Tregs by providing a source of IL2 for Treg consumption. We explored whether disruption of the IL2 axis would confer efficacy against solid tumors without the need for lymphodepletion. Experimental Design: We developed second- (CD28z) and third- (CD28-4-1BBz) generation CARs targeting EGFRvIII. To eliminate secretion of IL2, 2 amino acid substitutions were introduced in the PYAP Lck–binding motif of the CD28 domain (ΔCD28). We evaluated CARs against B16 melanomas expressing EGFRvIII. Results: CD28z CARs failed to engraft in vivo. Although 4-1BB addition improved expansion, CD28-4-1BBz CARs required lymphodepletion to treat solid tumors. CARs deficient in Lck signaling, however, significantly retarded tumor growth without a need for lymphodepletion and this was dependent on inclusion of 4-1BB. To evaluate CAR vulnerability to Tregs, we lymphodepleted mice and transferred CARs alone or with purified Tregs. Cotransfer with Tregs abrogated the efficacy of CD28-4-1BBz CARs, whereas the efficacy of ΔCD28-4-1BBz CARs remained unperturbed. Conclusions: In the absence of lymphodepletion, CARs targeting solid tumors are hindered by Treg immunosuppression and poor persistence. Here, CARs were modified to circumvent Treg suppression and to simultaneously improve in vivo engraftment. Modified CARs treated solid tumors without a need for lymphodepletion.
An early Miocene dugongine (Sirenia: Dugongidae) from Panama

Herein, we describe a new early Miocene dugongine from marine deposits of the Culebra Cut (Gaillard Cut) of the Panama Canal. The new taxon, Culebratherium alemani, gen. et sp. nov., represents one...
Stitching interferometry for synchrotron mirror metrology at NSLS-II (Conference Presentation)

With the progressive development in synchrotron radiation facilities and free electron lasers (FELs), the requirement of the X-ray mirror is getting higher with tighter specifications. It challenges the X-ray mirror metrology in two major application scenes. On one hand, a reliable mirror measurement technique is needed to provide trustable feedback to the deterministic polishing in mirror fabrication or re-polishing process. On the other hand, it demands a more accurate mirror metrology technique to offer better services for the X-ray mirror inspection at synchrotrons and FELs to control the quality of X-ray mirrors to be installed into beamlines. Since the stitching interferometry can provide two-dimensional laterally extendable (stitched) results with sub-nanometer height resolution and precision, several stitching interferometric techniques are studied for synchrotron mirror metrology. It is not only to enhance the mirror inspection capability in NSLS-II optical metrology laboratory but also to act in concert with the ongoing ion beam figuring project at NSLS-II. Various stitching methods with different stitching parameters are investigated at our stitching interferometric platform. Some experimental results are revealed to demonstrate the validity and performance of the developed system and stitching methods.
A Deep Learning based Illegal Parking Detection Platform

Illegal parking is a critical problem in large, growing cities. Currently, the responsibility for detecting illegally parked vehicles has been left to law enforcement, which often requires manual inspection. To improve the efficiency of law enforcement for vehicle parking management, we propose a web-based analytic platform that leverages recent advancements in computer vision. This proposed platform provides an algorithm to improve the performance of detecting vehicle license plates from videos, based on an existing deep learning approach. Also, we provide a method to estimate vehicle parking locations. This platform is applicable for videos of security patrolling. End-users can define restricted zones via a map-based interface and all vehicles located in these areas can be efficiently identified once patrolling videos are received. This system is evaluated by two videos captured in real-world parking lots. The results indicate that the proposed platform can successfully identify vehicle plate numbers and estimate their parking locations to support the management of urban parking infrastructure.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for radiation-induced brachial plexopathy, a case report and literature review.

Abstract Aim To report a case of radiation-induced brachial plexopathy (RIBP) with significant radiographic and clinical improvement after a course of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO). Background RIBP is a rare complication after radiotherapy to the neck and axilla. There are no standard treatment options, with empirical use pharmacotherapy being predominately used, which has had mixed results. HBO is efficacious for the treatment of other severe radiation-induced side effects, however, its benefit in RIBP has conflicting reports. Case Presentation A 45-year-old male, with a 33 pack-year smoking history, presented with a 6-month history of a progressive left neck mass. The final diagnosis was unknown primary squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. He received intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with 70 Gy prescribed to the gross tumor volume (PTV HR) and 56 Gy to the oropharynx, nasopharynx, and bilateral lymphatics (PTV SR) in 35 daily fractions with three cycles of concurrent cisplatin at 100 mg/m2. Fifteen months following therapy completion, the patient began to endorse symptoms of left brachial plexopathy. Decadron was prescribed for 2 weeks, trental and vitamin E for 6 months, and HBO. The patient returned for follow-up 2 months after completing 30 dives of HBO at 2.4 atmospheres for 2 hours per session. He reported pain resolution and full range of motion of his left arm. Conclusions The best management strategy of RIBP is prevention by reducing total RT doses and close follow-up. However, when RIBP occurs, we recommend treatment with HBO therapy, steroids, trental, and vitamin E as tolerable.
Nanostructured metal oxide modification of a porous silicon interface for sensor applications: the question of water interaction, stability, platform diversity and sensitivity, and selectivity

Key parameters of a nanostructure modified porous silicon (PSi) template that can affect the development and performance of PSi-based sensors are considered. The importance of pore selection and direct in-situ nitrogen functionalization are emphasized. Metal oxide nanostructured island sites deposited to select, well defined, and reproducible nano-pore walled, micron sized p and n-type silicon pores (0.7–1.5 μ diameter) provide enhanced selectivity. The micron-sized pores facilitate rapid Fickian analyte diffusion to these highly active sites. The metal oxide nanoparticles are trapped by a thin nanopored wall covering preventing their sintering at elevated temperatures. The varying sensitivities of the highly active metal oxide nanostructured sites are well predicted within the recently developed Inverse Hard/Soft Acid/Base (IHSAB) model. Nitrogen functionalization of the nanostructure decorated surfaces provides the conversion of these PSi interfaces from hydrophilic to hydrophobic character. The decrease of water interaction provides greatly enhanced stability. Selectivity can be extended to the measurement of multiple gases using a combination of nanostructured island site determined detection matrices, p and n-type charge carrier variation, time dependent diffusion response, and pore structure influenced sensitivity. The range of variable responses is dominated by the molecular electronic structure of the nanostructured island sites as evaluated using the IHSAB concept. Pulsed mode operation can facilitate low analyte consumption and high analyte selectivity and further provide the ability to assess false positive signals using Fast Fourier Transfer techniques. The modeling of the PSi sensor response with a new Fermi energy distribution –based response isotherm is found to be superior to other isotherms. The rate of sensor response, linearity of measurement, and hysteresis of response are also considered within the framework of the decorated micron sized pore structure.
Estimation of lipid fractions of blood plasma; system using the Allen volumetric method.

The Allen volumetric method for plasma fat has been modified by calibration to include the percentage of olive-oil recovery. The values obtained from calibration with mercury are corrected for the 125 per cent recovery of the oil. The validity of the entire procedure has been discussed. A simple system of estimating the lipid fractions of plasma has been described. Total lipids are the total of Allen fat + (25 x lipid P). Neutral fat is Allen fat-cholesterol-cholesterol fatty acids. Total fatty acids are X neutral fat + cholesterol fatty acids + (0.64 x phospholipids). The values of total fatty acids have been compared with those obtained by oxidation with dichromate and by determining the esterified fatty acids with iron perchlorate. The values of neutral fat found in 13 apparently normal individuals are shown to range from 0 to 88 and to give an average value of 28 mg./100 ml.
The Importance of Historical Perspective and Archival Methods in Political Communication Research

As the terms political polarization and divisiveness are cemented into the public discourse, political communication scholars could benefit from further incorporating historical perspective and met...
Intellectual Property Law and Post-Scarcity Society

Rapid technological progress has shifted discussion of the possibility of "post-scarcity society" from science fiction novels and utopian manifestoes to the pages of our newspapers and now to our law reviews. Commentators imagine a world in which three-dimensional printing, advanced robotics, synthetic biology, and artificial intelligence will enable the low-cost at-home manufacture of nearly all commodities and provision of nearly all services. This lecture considers the implications of postscarcity society for law and specifically for intellectual property law. It focuses on the likely social role of intellectual property law in a post-scarcity society and on the ways in which intellectual property law will likely work to undermine the socially progressive promise of post-scarcity.
Extreme engineering: Polarization in product development and manufacturing

Abstract The phenomena and application domains of interest to engineering science are continuously evolving. It is expected that along the path of progress, limits in technology, applications, or theory are encountered. To address these limitations, the concept of extreme engineering is proposed. It is discussed in the context of product development and manufacturing. Illustrative applications of extreme engineering in different application domains are listed.
Contested everyday cultural citizenship: “Mixed race” children and their ethnicized citizenship in South Korea

This article examines how the everyday cultural citizenship of “mixed race” children of one Korean parent and one immigrant parent is contested. This study transposes the concept of ethnicized citi...
Comparison of Major Complications at 30 and 90 Days Following Radical Cystectomy

Objectives To better understand the time-course in which major complications occur after radical cystectomy and to describe associations with complications at 30 and 90 days. Methods A database of radical cystectomy cases was queried for preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative data. Follow-up extended to 90 days postsurgery and included major complications (Clavien III-V). Early (30-day) and late (90-day) complication rates were compared via McNemar's test, and patient characteristics were compared across complication time groups by one-way ANOVA or Fisher's exact tests. Multinomial logistic regression was used to explore associations between patient characteristics and complication timing. Results Of 969 patients undergoing radical cystectomy, 210/969 (21.7%) experienced a complication within 90 days. The rate of major complication significantly differed at 30 and 90 days (14.4% [conflict of interest (CI): 12.4%-16.9%] vs 21.7% [CI: 19.2%-24.4%] respectively, P ≤.0001). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (P = .03), Charlson Comorbidity Index (P = .02), and Indiana pouch diversion (P = .002) were significant predictors of early complication. Diabetes was the strongest predictor for late complication (OR: 2.42; P = 0.01). Diabetes was also a significant predictor for late genitourinary complications (OR 3.39; P = .01), and smoking history was a significant predictor for late infectious complications (OR 3.61; P = .01). Conclusion We identified a significant number of complications occurring after 30 days postcystectomy, including the majority of deaths and genitourinary complications. These findings suggest that assessment of complications exclusively at 30 days would fail to capture a large proportion of major complications and deaths. Understanding the time-course of complications postcystectomy will serve to better inform design of future outcome studies.
On a self-tuning sliding-mass electromagnetic energy harvester

Prior research has investigated resonators capable of self-tuning through the use of a sliding mass. This passive tuning mechanism can be utilized to improve vibration control; however, little is known about the nonlinear dynamic interactions between the vibrating beam and sliding mass, particularly as these apply to vibration energy harvesting applications. This paper investigates this problem by numerically and experimentally examining the response of an electromagnetic self-tuning energy harvester. We present the governing equations of this electromagnetic cantilever beam with a sliding mass using the extended Hamilton principle. These equations are then discretized using the Galerkin method and solved numerically. An experiment is carried out to validate the numerical analysis. Parametric studies are conducted to examine the effect of different system parameters on the performance of the self-tuning harvester.
Study on integration of real-time atmospheric monitoring system data and MFIRE simulation

The past several decades have seen a steady increase in the use of atmospheric monitoring systems (AMS) in underground mines as sensor technology has advanced and costs for this technology have dec...
τ -function of discrete isomonodromy transformations and probability

We introduce the τ-function of a difference rational connection (d-connection) and its isomonodromy transformations. We show that in a continuous limit ourτ-function agrees with the Jimbo–Miwa–Ueno τ-function. We compute the τ-function for the isomonodromy transformations leading to difference Painleve V and difference Painleve VI equations. We prove that the gap probability for a wide class of discrete random matrix type models can be viewed as the τ-function for an associated d-connection.
Information content of soil hydrology in the Amazon as informed byGRACE

Abstract. The seasonal-to-decadal terrestrial water balance on river basin scales depends on a number of well-characterized but uncertain soil physical processes, including soil moisture, plant available water, rooting depth, and recharge to lower soil layers. Reducing uncertainties in these quantities using observations is a key step towards improving the data fidelity and skill of land surface models. In this study, we quantitatively characterize the capability of Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (NASA-GRACE) measurements – a key constraint on Total Water Storage (TWS) – to inform and constrain these processes. We use a reduced complexity physically-based model capable of simulating the hydrologic cycle, and we apply Bayesian inference on the model parameters using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm, to minimize mismatches between model simulated and GRACE-observed TWS anomalies. Based on the prior and posterior model parameter distributions, we further quantify information gain with regards to terrestrial water states, associated fluxes and time-invariant process parameters. We show that the data-constrained terrestrial water storage model is capable of capturing basic physics of the hydrologic cycle for a watershed in the western Amazon during the period of January 2003 through December 2012, with an r2 of 0.96 and RMSE of 46.93 mm between observed and simulated TWS. Furthermore, we show a reduction of uncertainty in many of the parameters and state variables, ranging from a 2 % reduction in uncertainty for the porosity parameter to an 85 % reduction for the rooting depth parameter. The annual and interannual variability of the system are also simulated accurately, with the model simulations capturing the impacts of the 2005–2006 and 2010–2011 South America droughts. The results shown here suggest the potential of using gravimetric observations of TWS to identify and constrain key parameters in soil hydrologic models.
Economic evaluation of the use of feedlot abortifacients

A total of 169 pregnant heifers were divided into a control group (85) where no abortifacients were used and a treatment group where abortifacients (prostaglandins with or without dexamethasone) were administered. When the heifers were re-examined after 21 days, 14% of the controls had aborted compared to 95% of the treated heifers. After a 105-day feeding period, the heifers were slaughtered; 44% of the controls were pregnant and only 4% of the treated heifers. Carcass data from the two groups revealed an economic advantage of $17 per head for the aborted heifers over the controls.
Non-thermal plasma multi-jet platform based on a flexible matrix

A new plasma source design that merges the main characteristics of capacitive dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) and cold atmospheric plasma jet (CAPJ) is discussed. The DBD system contains a flexible, porous matrix consisting of silica aerogel, which is comprised between two biased electrodes. The helium flow supply subjected to a sinusoidal voltage of around 5 kV in amplitude and 15 kHz in frequency provides a set of plasma jets that propagates more than 1 cm beyond the active DBD region. The studied plasma multi-jet system consists of an array of three aligned jets that flow in the laminar regime, and it is intended for treating the surfaces of 3D objects and large areas. CAPJ performance is discussed as a hypothetical morphing source in flat and bent configurations. Electrical characterization and optical emission spectroscopy diagnostics have provided current–voltage waveforms and the composition of the CAPJ through the aerogel layer, respectively. This novel source is promising for biomedical applications that require full adaptation of plasma parameters to delicate samples, such as wound healing and treatment of surgical margins in plasma-based cancer surgery.
RES Structure and Function of the Fishes

Fish are the earliest vertebrates which have a well-developed immune system characterized by both cellular and humoral branches endowed with specificity and memory. More specifically, since invertebrates apparently lack a molecule resembling the vertebrate antibody molecule (Bang, 1973; Shapiro, 1975), fish are the first group of animals which clearly possess an immunoglobulin component. In addition, although there is evidence indicating cellular function in recognition of non-self in invertebrates (reviewed in Cooper, 1976), again fish are the first group of animals where T-like and B-like lymphocytes may actually attain a level of specialization.
A Review of: “Media Democracy: How the Media Colonize Politics, by Thomas Meyer with Lew Hinchman”

Tests of theoretical insights about the complex relationships between politics and the mass media are rare, particularly comparative analyses. Thomas Meyer addresses some of the key media contribut...
Improving Mesoscale Prediction of Shallow Convection and Cloud Regime Transitions in NRL COAMPS

Abstract : Accurate predictions of cloud and precipitation processes in the marine boundary layer are critical to U.S. Navy operations, as well as being more broadly important to improving seasonable predictability and the performance of NWP models. The major goal of the project is to develop and test state-of-the-art boundary layer and microphysical parameterizations in order to better represent the continuum of cloud regimes from stratocumulus to trade cumulus, with particular emphasis on cloud regime transitions. Accurate prediction of cloud-topped marine boundary layers regional forecast models is currently hindered the ability of the models to represent shallow cumulus boundary layers and transitions between different cloud regimes.
THE EMERGING ROLE OF THE TIM MOLECULES IN TRANSPLANTATION

Since their discovery in 2001, the T-cell immunoglobulin mucin (TIM) family members have been shown to play important roles in the regulation of immune responses. The TIM family comprises of eight genes in the mouse, three of which are conserved in humans (TIM-1, TIM-3 and TIM-4). Initially, TIM-1 and TIM-3 were thought to be expressed solely on T cells. However, emerging data suggest a much broader expression pattern where their presence on APCs confers differing functions, including the ability to mediate phagocytosis. In contrast, TIM-4 is exclusively expressed on APCs. Together, the TIM molecules provide a functional repertoire for determining the fate of T-cell activation and differentiation. To date, much of the knowledge about the TIM family members has been garnered from the models of asthma, allergy and autoimmunity. More recently, data from experimental models of transplantation demonstrate that TIM family members also have a key role in alloimmunity. This review will serve to highlight the emerging data regarding this unique family of molecules and to identify their potential in transplantation tolerance.
A Phased Array Model for Directional Sensitivity in the Bioaccelerometers of the Inner Ear

The directional sensitivity of the tiny sensory hair cells of the inner ear is well-documented, but has not been well-understood. These vestibular sensory receivers aire part of the “bioaccelerometers” of the body, and a mathematical model based on phased arrays was introduced in [6] to describe their directional sensitivity. In part, this model was based on the mathematical proof that the most efficient manner in which to receive a signal with a planar phased array antenna requires distributing the sensors into a hexagonal (or “triangular”) array, see [8]. The distribution of tiny sensory hairs, the “stereocilia”, in the hair bundles of vertebrate hair cells is also that of a nearly-perfect hexagonal array, and these ideas were connected in [6] to describe the sensory functioning of the hair cells. That mathematical model is extended here to describe the directional sensitivity more precisely, again using the theory and terminology of phased array receiving systems. The array patterns developed in [7] will be further extended to include phase shifts, and this paper presents directivity patterns which match the known physical responses of these biological systems.
To Be Alive

If appetites are ready, food will follow. To be alive means clear eyes and a good digestion: a readiness to risk one9s neck or lose one9s sleep: a willingness to work at anything one needs for bread or knowledge from catching fish to measuring an atom9s dance: the will to be incorporated with others in a family, union, shop or city, and yet to keep one9s proper self intact. A life well-keyed will find its way with equal ease about a landscape or a library. To be a man at all means sharing in the modes of life that men have found a help to sheer existence or to ecstasy.
Time inconsistency and fiscal policy: Empirical analysis of U.S. States, 1969–89

Abstract We offer an extensive and robust test of the time-inconsistency theory of fiscal politics. We employ data of U.S. states from 1969 to 1989, and the results of our tests indicate the variables such as legislative stability and executive term limits have strongly predictable impacts on the volatility of various measures of fiscal policy.
Immunology. A Toll for DNA vaccines.

The mammalian protein that triggers an innate immune response to bacterial DNA has been identified. This discovery may help in understanding and improving DNA-based vaccines.
Performing Rootedness in the Negev/Naqab: Possibilities and Perils of Competitive Planting

Through ethnographic and historical analysis of the Negev region of Israel, this article examines competitive planting as a common tool in land conflicts. In a context of disputed land ownership, some Bedouin Arab residents plant crops in defiance of government policy. Government enforcers of land-use regulations destroy many of these crops and engage in counterinsurgent tree-planting. I suggest that planting is such a potent tactic because it draws on “environmental idioms” of agricultural labor, the rootedness of trees, and a fundamental Jewish-Arab opposition that have been central to the development of both Israeli and Palestinian nationalisms. For Bedouin Arabs, whose relationship to both nationalisms has long been contested, the multivalent symbolism of planting makes it a particularly promising tactic for asserting land claims. Further, I contend that these plantings demonstrate both the power of environmental idioms to structure land claims along ethnic lines and the creative potential of participants to challenge dominant environmental discourses by adding new connotations.
CD47 Deficiency Protects Mice from Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury and Escherichia coli Pneumonia

CD47 modulates neutrophil transmigration toward the sites of infection or injury. Mice lacking CD47 are susceptible to Escherichia coli (E. coli) peritonitis. However, less is known concerning the role of CD47 in the development of acute lung inflammation and injury. In this study, we show that mice lacking CD47 are protected from LPS-induced acute lung injury and E. coli pneumonia with a significant reduction in pulmonary edema, lung vascular permeability, and bacteremia. Reconstitution of CD47(+/-) mice with CD47(-/-) neutrophils significantly reduced lung edema and neutrophil infiltration, thus demonstrating that CD47(+) neutrophils are required for the development of lung injury from E. coli pneumonia. Importantly, CD47-deficient mice with E. coli pneumonia had an improved survival rate. Taken together, deficiency of CD47 protects mice from LPS-induced acute lung injury and E. coli pneumonia. Targeting CD47 may be a novel pathway for treatment of acute lung injury.
Servo-system design based on LQ and H ∞ approaches

This paper presents a servo controller design method based on the state space algorithm[2] for general H∞ problems. A command generator is introduced to determine the feedforward and feedback gains simultaneously by utilizing the standard H∞ controller framework. The design method is applied to a dual-actuator positioning system. A comparison between the LQ and H∞ controllers is discussed. Frequency shaping functions are incorporated into the design method for performance improvement. Simulation results are provided to show the effectiveness of the design method.
The effects on intragastric acidity of per‐gastrostomy administration of an alkaline suspension of omeprazole

Background : It may be difficult to administer proton pump inhibitors via gastrostomy. Previous studies have examined the effect of intact proton pump inhibitor granules in orange juice. This study examined the effect of an alkaline suspension of omeprazole (simplified omeprazole suspension (SOS)) on 24-h intragastric acidity. Methods : Six men with an established gastrostomy had a baseline 24-h intragastric pH study using methodology we have previously described. They then received 20 mg SOS o.d. for 7 days and had a repeat pH study at the end of this period. Four of the patients then received 20 mg SOS with 30 cc of liquid antacid (Mylanta, TM) per gastrostomy o.d. for a further 7 days and then underwent a third pH study. Results : SOS raised mean pH from 2.2 to 4.1. Intragastric pH was above 3, 4 and 5 for 35, 28 and 17% of the 24-h period at baseline, respectively; corresponding values after SOS were 63, 51 and 39%, respectively. Addition of liquid antacid to SOS did not further increase its pH-controlling effect. Conclusions : We found a statistically significant effect of o.d. SOS on intragastric pH when administered via gastrostomy. We found no additional benefit of administering SOS with liquid antacid.
Criminal Laws on the Fringe: An Analysis of Legislated Punishments for Morality Crimes in the 50 States

Each of the 50 states currently attempts to prohibit acts that could be called victimless, public order, or morality-based crimes. The first objective of this research is to identify conceptually similar criminal offenses regulating adult behavior in the United States. The state-level crimes ultimately selected for our analysis of 2006 online criminal code sanctions include: prostitution (separately reviewing “anti-john” statutes), gambling, marijuana possession, obscenity, adultery, and public intoxication. Due to construct validity problems encountered within the literature when we wanted to first select, and then later describe, our collection of seven crimes, we introduce a new term: Fringe Laws. Second, we will use descriptive statistics to analyze the states’ statutes, using their allowable incarceration amounts and maximum fines to examine how each of these crimes are punished across the 50 states, and to determine which states are most and least punitive in terms of average punishment level across the seven Fringe Laws. Finally, using the Excel map tool, we looked for any obvious spatial patterns among the states.
The design of the IBM type 702 system

THE International Business Machine (IBM) electronic data-processing machine type 702 consists of a stored-program arithmetic and logical unit and an array of high-speed input and output devices. The system is intended primarily for the automatic processing of business records, and its design is therefore quite different from that of computers for scientific or engineering problems. Some of the more important features are: 1. Electrostatic memory capacity of 10,000 alphabetic or numeric characters. 2. Variable word and record (or input-output message) length. 3. A wide range of input and output devices, including magnetic tapes, punched cards, keyboard, typewriter, high-speed printer, and auxiliary storage in the form of magnetic drums, which are treated logically as an input-output medium; see Fig. 1. 4. A choice of interconnection of machine units as indicated in Fig. 2.
Chronic Fibrous Mediastinitis and Superior Vena Caval Obstruction Due to Histoplasmosis

SUMMARY Four patients, age 25 to 30 years, with bronchial or mediastinal venous obstruction due to chronic fibrous mediastinitis are reported. Fibrous mediastinal lesions with various degrees of calcification were so extensive, obliterating anatomical planes, that pulmonary resections were technically impossible or considered unwise. Clinical and laboratory findings with uniform gross and microscopic appearance of these intrathoracic lesions, in our opinion, has given us a sufficient basis to make a diagnosis of chronic fibrous mediastinitis due to histoplasmosis. Morphologically typical organisms of histoplasma capsulatum were demonstrated in the caseous material from a granulomatous lymph node in one patient and organisms highly suggestive of such a fungus disease were found in another. Multiple mediastinal biopsies from the other two patients were not conclusively diagnostic in that no lymph node demonstrating such early collagenous replacement of necrotic foci was encountered although the typical hyalinized fibrous and calcific tissue was in abundance. Discussion points are presented dispelling the past opinions that severe chronic mediastinitis and associated superior vena caval obstruction may be the result of a tuberculous process.
Optimal properties of the conditional mean as a selection criterion.

Rules for selection that maximize the expected merit of selected candidates are discussed. When the proportion selected is constant, selection based on conditional means of merit given the observations is optimum in the above sense, regardless of the distribution. This does not hold if the proportion selected is random. When the expected value of the observations is a linear function of a set of unknown parameters, selection can be based on a vector of “corrected” records, w. It is shown that under normality, the conditional mean of merit given w is the best linear unbiased predictor (BLUP), provided that the expected value of the merit function is the same in all candidates. A Bayesian argument is given to justify the use of BLUP as a selection rule when the expected merit differs from candidate to candidate.
Thiophosphoryl triamide: A dual purpose urease/nitrification inhibitor

Very few compounds have been shown to possess both urease and nitrification inhibitor activity. The ability to control both of these processes by the addition of a single additive is, however, highly desirable. During our work with the urease inhibitor thiophosphoryl triamide (TPTA) we have discovered that this material affects inhibition of urea hydrolysis by urease and ammonium oxidation by nitrifiers. This discovery suggests the pursuit of a new class of agrochemical compounds which can be designated as ammonium/nitrate ratio control agents because of their potential ability to provide controllable levels of ammonium and nitrate to cropping systems.
The Fordham University doctoral specialization in applied developmental psychology

Abstract The past decade has witnessed the extension of developmental psychology to applied problems and the entry of developmental psychologists into research settings beyond the laboratory. To meet the challenges of applying the developmental data base to practical problems, graduate programs in developmental psychology have begun to incorporate an applied perspective into their education and training goals. The growing recognition that the applied developmental perspective can be implemented across a broad spectrum of disciplines and educational settings introduces the additional challenge for applied developmental psychology programs to establish curricula that meet the unique goals and criteria of their training context and the discipline of psychology. In this article we describe the Fordham University Doctoral Specialization in Applied Developmental Psychology as an example of the educational challenges facing graduate programs seeking to establish applied developmental psychology curricula.
Soil nematode biodiversity

Nematodes are the most abundant metazoans in soil, and are exceeded in species diversity only by the arthropods. Estimates of nematode diversity in natural and agroecosystems have been based on both species-level taxonomy and trophic-level guilds. Because trophic groups do not act in a unitary manner with respect to environmental alterations, species-level analysis is more meaningful and should be preferred for most kinds of investigations. Nematodes of a biotope have often been considered as mere assemblages, but there is increasing evidence that certain plant associations have characteristic groups of species. This concept has been used by Bongers to develop a maturity index relating nematode families and site stability, and to identify assemblages that colonize disturbed soils. Major constraints on detailed ecological studies of soil nematode faunas are an incomplete understanding of trophic groups and their subsets, the need for repeated sampling of seasonally variable populations, and a severe shortage of taxonomy-competent persons, especially for microbial feeders.
Amitrole Translocation in Agropyron repens Increased by the Addition of Ammonium Thiocyanate.

The mechanism for the enhancement of amitrole activity on quackgrass (Agropyron repens) by the addition of ammonium thiocyanate was studied. Absorption and translocation of C 14 -amitrole after applications to foliage were determined by a direct count of the radioactivity in the wash solution and plant extracts. Regardless of the time of application, the addition of ammonium thiocyanate did not alter the amount of C 14 -amitrole absorbed. Ammonium thiocyanate (5000 parts per million) greatly increased the amount of carbon-14 translocated. This increase may account for the greater herbicidal effectiveness of the mixture of amitrole and ammonium thiocyanate.
Plasma Nonesterified Fatty Acid Concentration as a Risk Factor for Sudden Cardiac Death The Paris Prospective Study

In the 1960s and 1970s, at the time the study by Jouven et al1 was initiated, there was much interest among cardiologists regarding the likelihood that elevated concentrations of free fatty acids in plasma occurring with myocardial ischemia might initiate ventricular arrhythmias resulting in sudden cardiac death. Nevertheless, it required far-sighted investigators to launch an epidemiological study with 5250 middle-aged men without known cardiovascular disease and the persistence to follow this cohort for a mean follow-up time of 22 years, making this a unique and valuable reference for the natural history of cardiovascular disease over a recent period in Western industrialized countries. See p 756 Nonesterified fatty acids, or free fatty acids, are highly hydrophobic, shunning the aqueous medium of body fluids. They are generally toxic to cells and are kept at low nanomolar or micromolar concentrations in plasma; these levels can vary greatly depending on the hormonal, metabolic, and nutritional state of the individual. Some 99.9% of free fatty acids are carried in plasma bound to proteins, mainly serum albumin, which has some 5 to 8 or more binding sites per molecule ranging from high to low affinity. The low concentration of fatty acids is maintained in plasma by the competition between the affinity of albumin-binding sites and cell membrane phospholipids for free fatty acids. In heart cell membranes, concentrations in turn are kept low by the cells, which constitute a sink for the fatty acids they consume as metabolic fuel. The free fatty acid levels in plasma result from the regulated turnover of lipid stores in adipose tissue by lipolysis and from phospholipids by phospholipases and is little affected by the immediate dietary consumption of fat. …
Analysis and Design of Low Phase-Noise Oscillators With Nonlinear Resonators

It is known that the dynamics and phase noise of resonator-based self-sustained nonlinear oscillators is affected by the presence of a nonlinear resonator. In fact, it has been shown that resonator nonlinearity can enhance the oscillator phase noise under certain conditions. This paper offers a new formulation and analytical approach to describe the effect of resonator nonlinearity on the phase noise of self-sustained oscillators. The analysis applies properties of stochastic Ito integrals to oscillator's averaged stochastic nonlinear differential equations with periodic steady state solutions. The results offer insight into designing low phase-noise oscillators with nonlinear resonators. We show that for a given nonlinear oscillator topology, there is an optimum power incident on the resonator that minimizes the phase noise. As a proof of concept, the analysis is applied to a 1.5-GHz CMOS oscillator that uses a nonlinear film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR). A nonlinear model including memory effects for the FBAR is proposed and used in the formulation. At the optimum design point, the oscillator shows measured phase noise of -110 dBc/Hz at 1 kHz, -125 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz, -145 dBc/Hz at 100 kHz, and -160 dBc/Hz at 10-MHz offset frequencies while consuming 40 mW of dc power. This results in 10 fs of timing jitter.