cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A method for charactering EMI coupling paths and source properties in complex systems

A method for charactering EMI coupling paths in complex systems is presented. While it is relatively easy to determine the EMI antenna structures or the sources of EMI, it is often quite difficult to identify, and even more difficult to quantify coupling paths. This paper introduces a measurementbased method to quantify EMI coupling paths, and the source strengths can be indirectly determined by applying linear system theory. Circuit design guidelines, e.g., the permissible even-mode current in a differential signal, can be derived with the knowledge of the coupling path and EMI limits. Moreover, the EMI can be better predicted with the knowledge of the coupling paths, and the EMI source properties simulated with IBIS or SPICE circuit level simulations. Keywords-EMI; coupling path; common-mode current; evenmode current; transfer impedance
Framework for adaptive content delivery in heterogeneous network environments

The explosive growth of the Internet has come with increasing diversity and heterogeneity in terms of client device capability, network bandwidth, and user preferences. To date, most Web content has been designed with desktop computers in mind, and often contains rich media such as images, audio, and video. In many cases, this content is not suitable for devices like netTVs, handheld computers, personal digital assistants, and smart phones with relatively limited display capability, storage, processing power, and network access. Thus, Internet access is still constrained on these devices and there is a need to develop alternative approaches for information delivery. In this paper, we propose a framework for adaptive content delivery in heterogeneous environments. The goal is to improve content accessibility and perceived quality of service for information access under changing network and viewer conditions. The framework includes content adaptation algorithms, client capability and network bandwidth discovery methods, and a Decision Engine for determining when and how to adapt content. We describe this framework, initial system implementations based upon this framework, and the issues associated with the deployment of such systems based on different architectures.
Investigation of a single pit/defect evolution during the corrosion process

The investigation of a single pit/defect evolution due to localized corrosion that is commonly observed in a wide range of aluminum alloys is reported. Electrochemical experiments, microscopy and computations were used to predict stresses around a single pit/defect. It was observed that the pit/defect profile changing its shape from slightly conical to more hemispherical shape with increasing corrosion time. Also, stress distribution and levels vary non-linearly around a single pit/defect. The results also indicate that the evolution of these pits/defects may lead to nucleation of a crack over time, which can be predicted from these stresses.
The four-state model of a linear lattice: application to ligand-controlled hybridization of short duplex DNAs.

An algorithm for calculating the order–disorder transition of a four-state linear lattice is presented. Recursion schemes for the probabilities of each site along the lattice occupying one of the four possible states were derived following the work of D. Poland (Biopolymers, 1974, Vol. 13, pp. 1859–1871) and H. Tachibana and A. Wada (Biopolymers, 1982, Vol. 21, pp. 1873–1885). The algorithm was parameterized to consider melting of short duplex DNA in the presence of duplex and single-strand binding ligands. Model calculations were performed for two 31 base-pair duplex DNAs with very different percent guanine–cytosine base pairs, and thus very different thermodynamic stabilities. In the absence of ligands, calculated melting curves of the two DNAs under identical solvent conditions and identical concentrations were separated by over 15°C. In the presence of either duplex or single-strand binding ligands, if a sequence dependence to ligand binding is assumed, the melting curves of the two DNAs can be made to coalesce, i.e., stability of the two DNAs can be normalized! This example demonstrates the feasibility of controlling hybridization of short DNAs by sequence specific ligand binding. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 69: 405–420, 2003
Strapdown Gyros in a Back-to-Back Configuration

A back-to-back connection of two gyros per axis is suggested that eliminates some of the errors due to cross coupling between the components of vehicle angular rates and accelerations. In particular, the error due to output axis angular acceleration, the anisoinertia error, and the spin reference axis rectification error theoretically vanish. Use of redundant and identical strapdown systems for the purpose of obtaining higher reliability makes this connection practical.
Applying Cognitive Decision Theory to the Study of Regional Patterns of Illness Treatment Choice

This article argues for the utility of cognitive decision modeling in assessing regional patterns of health behavior and, when combined with the explanatory modeling approach, in describing and analyzing more effectively sources of intracultural variation in choice within a region. A decision model developed in two intensively studied communities in rural Costa Rica was used to predict treatment choice in a third one representative of the rapid social change occurring in the region. A subsequent analysis of the errors made in prediction pinpointed patterns of intracultural variation that were then investigated from the explanatory model perspective. The incorporation of these more qualitative data into the original decision model made it more sensitive to both the complexities of the decision context and the specifics of the individual illness experience while also enabling greater accuracy in the prediction of regional patterns of treatment choice.
Introduction to Polyoxometalate Chemistry

To an Inorganic Chemist, the high abundance of oxygen in the Earth’s Crust (55 atom%) is largely manifested in the solution chemistry of aquo-, hydroxo-, and oxo-ions and in the solid-state realm of silicates, clays, and metal oxides. The role of (di)oxygen in the biosphere is of course also not insignificant, but that is another story.
π-Conjugated Conjoined Double Helicene via a Sequence of Three Oxidative CC- and NN-Homocouplings

Dimerization of planarized diamine 2 using benzoyl peroxide gave dihydrazine 1 in about 70% yield; that is, three dehydrogenations (one CC- and two NN-homocouplings) and two ring closures were attained in one synthetic step. Dihydrazine 1 may be viewed as a chiral π-conjugated conjoined double helicene, with two homochiral [5]helicene-like fragments, annelated in their mid-sections. A relatively high barrier of ∼35 kcal mol-1 for inversion of configuration for one of the [5]helicene-like helices in 1 was found.
Getting To Know The General: The Story of an Involvement

Greene's account of a five year personal involvement with Omar Torrijos, ruler of Panama from 1968-81 and Sergeant Chuchu, one of the few men in the National Guard whom the General trusted completely. It is a fascinating tribute to an inspirational politician in the vital period of his country's history, and to an unusual and enduring friendship.
TITRATABLE GROUPS AND SOLUBLE PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS AS INDICATORS OF THE DIGESTIBILITY OF CHEMICALLY TREATED ROUGHAGES

Abstract Methods are presented which evaluate the efficiency of delignification in alkali-treated grass straws. Saponified lignin is soluble in neutral detergent solution and in phosphate buffer, and can be assayed by ultraviolet spectrophotometry of the solutions. Extraction of free phenolic material by means of neutral detergent or phosphate buffer is followed by determination of a saponification number (titratable groups) on the residue. Measurements of phenolic matter in the sodium hydroxide extract of the fibre residue allow assay of the residual, bound lignin in treated straws. The bound lignin is negatively correlated with digestibility of alkali-treated straw. The results provide further evidence that the negative effect of lignin upon digestibility of forages depends on covalent linkage between lignin and the carbohydrate residues that it protects.
A conceptual category effect in visual search: O as letter or as digit

Evidence is presented for a processing mechanism in visual recognition that depends upon how the stimulus array is conceptually categorized rather than upon its physical characteristics. Ss had to detect a letter or digit target in a field of letters or digits. When target and field were of the same category, reaction time increased with display size. When target and field category differed, reaction times were independent of display size. This category effect held even for the ambiguous target character 0 that yielded reaction time functions appropriate to how it was specified prior to presentation: as “zero” or as “ō.”
TU-C-BRA-03: Skin Toxicity in Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy — Improving the Treatment Planning and Delivery Process

Purpose: Stereotactic body radiation therapy is delivered using high doses, specialized immobilization and careful treatment planning. Although more centers now offer SBRTtreatments, little data regarding toxicity and doses are available. We have previously reported increased skin toxicity with hypofractionated SBRT and correlated toxicity to tumor‐skin proximity, beam arrangement and buildup dose calculation inaccuracies. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of our buildup region doses through correlation with in‐vivo measurements.Method and Materials:Surfacedoses were measured on 30 patients receiving single fraction 18–24 Gy SBRT. Patients were supine and immobilized with an Alpha Cradle and custom SBRT cradle. IMRT planning with approximately seven posterior, 6 or 15 MV x‐rays beams was done using an in‐house planning system (TPS) and delivered on Varian accelerators. Buildup region doses were measured with thermoluminescent (TLD) or optically stimulated luminescent (OSLD) dosimeters. An 5–10 dosimeter array was positioned on the patient's surface during treatment.Dosimeter positioning was verified by KV imaging. Calculations at corresponding points at depths 1 and 2 mm were done using both our TPS (pencil beam algorithm) and Monte Carlo and compared to measurements. For six patients the TPS calculations were also done including the immobilization equipment. Results: In vivo dosimetry showed patient surfacedose could be 50% higher than that calculated by the TPS. Factors contributing to higher measureddoses were: tumor proximity to surface, immobilization device thickness, beam angular segmentation, and beam energy. Calculations including the immobilization device greatly improved correlation with measurements.Conclusion: To limit skin toxicity, SBRTtreatments require awareness of beam placement, energy selection and immobilization devices. At these high single fraction doses it is necessary to carefully consider immobilization devices as well as to reanalyze and improve treatment planning beam data in the buildup region.
Quantitative determination of carisoprodol, phenacetin, and caffeine in tablets by near-IR spectrometry and their identification by TLC.

Abstract Analytical procedures for the identification and measurement of each individual component in a carisoprodol, phenacetin, and caffeine combination are reported. Identification is confirmed by TLC. Carisoprodol and phenacetin are deter mined simultaneously in chloroform, while caffeine is isolated from the other two components and measured in carbon tetrachloride. All deter minative steps utilize near-IR spectrometry. The validity of the quantitative procedures described is substantiated by data obtained from the analysis of spiked solutions, which shows excellent accuracy and standard deviations for carisoprodol, phenacetin, and caffeine of 1.21, 0.68, and 0.74, respectively. Four commercial tablet preparations were analyzed and the standard deviations for carisoprodol, phenacetin, and caffeine were 1.38, 1.40, and 1.07, respectively. These figures are a reflection of both the manufacturing process and the reproducibility of the methodology.
Single-phase and two-phase cooling using hybrid micro-channel/slot-jet module

Abstract This paper explores the single-phase and two-phase cooling performance of a hybrid micro-channel/slot-jet module using HFE-7100 as working fluid. Three-dimensional numerical simulation using the k–e turbulent model is used to both assess the single-phase performance and seek a geometry that enhances heat removal capability and surface temperature uniformity while decreasing mean surface temperature. This geometry is then tested experimentally to validate the numerical findings and aid in the development of correlations for both the single-phase and two-phase heat transfer coefficients. The hybrid module is shown to maintain surface temperature gradients below 2 °C for heat fluxes up to 50 W/cm2. Even without phase change, the hybrid module is capable of dissipating heat fluxes as high as 305.9 W/cm2. Highly accurate single-phase correlations are developed using a superpositioning technique that consists of assigning a different heat transfer coefficient for each portion of the heat transfer area based on the dominant heat transfer mechanism for that portion. Increasing subcooling and/or flow rate is shown to delay the onset of nucleate boiling to a higher heat flux and higher surface temperature, as well as enhance critical heat flux (CHF). A correlation previously developed for hybrid micro-channel/micro-circular-jet module is deemed equally effective at predicting two-phase heat transfer data for the present hybrid module.
Long QT syndrome unmasked in an adult subject presenting with excited delirium.

Abstract Background Excited delirium is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for sudden death, though the specific pathophysiology of these deaths is typically unclear. Objectives We describe a survivor of excited delirium that displayed a transient severe prolongation of the QT interval, suggesting unmasking of long QT syndrome as a possible mechanism of sudden death. Case Report A 30-year-old man was arrested by police for violent assaultive behavior. Officers at the scene noted confusion, nonsensical speech, sweating, and bizarre agitated behavior; he was transported to the Emergency Department for medical evaluation of possible excited delirium. His initial electrocardiogram revealed a markedly prolonged corrected QT interval of over 600 ms. Intravenous hydration and sodium bicarbonate were administered, with normalization of the QT; he was admitted and recovered uneventfully. Conclusions We discuss the possible association between long QT syndrome and unexplained sudden deaths seen with excited delirium. Sodium bicarbonate may be considered when long QT syndrome is identified during or after agitated delirium, though its routine use cannot be recommended based on a case report.
Device for the application of a dynamic biaxially uniform and isotropic strain to a flexible cell culture membrane

A large number of studies have demonstrated that mechanical perturbation modulates cellular metabolism; however, the systematic characterization of the molecular and cellular transduction mechanisms underlying mechanically induced metabolic modulation has been impeded, in part, by the limitations of the mechanical device. The objective of this investigation was to develop an in vitro experimental system that would provide independent control of the spatial and temporal biaxial strain distribution imposed on a flexible transparent tissue culture membrane that permits attachment, proliferation, and maintenance of the phenotypic expression of cultured embryonic osteoblasts. Such a device would permit a systematic investigation of the cellular response to specific, independently controlled parameters of mechanical deformation. Using a prototype device designed to impose a dynamic sinusoidal spatially isotropic biaxial strain profile, we confirmed experimentally that the strain was biaxially uniform and isotropic (radial = circumferential strain over the entire culture membrane) to within 14% (SD/mean) for the range of the peak strains tested (2.3-9.4%). Additionally, the uniformity was maintained at 1 Hz for at least 5 days of continuous operation. This experimental verification of the theoretically predicted isotropic strain profile suggests that the design principle is sound. Embryonic osteoblasts cultured on the flexible substrate proliferated and exhibited a temporal pattern of phenotypic expression (extracellular matrix accumulation and mineralization) comparable with that observed on polystyrene of tissue culture grade.
Brainstem correlates of behavioral and compositional preferences of musical harmony.

Certain chords are preferred by listeners behaviorally and also occur with higher regularity in musical composition. Event-related potentials index the perceived consonance (i.e., pleasantness) of musical pitch relationships providing a cortical neural correlate for such behavioral preferences. Here, we demonstrate correlates of these harmonic preferences exist at subcortical stages of audition. Brainstem frequency-following responses (FFRs) were measured in response to four prototypical musical triads. Pitch salience computed from FFRs correctly predicted the ordering of triadic harmony stipulated by music theory (i.e., major > minor ≫ diminished > augmented). Moreover, neural response magnitudes showed high correspondence with listeners’ perceptual ratings of the same chords. Results suggest that pre-attentive stages of pitch processing may contribute to perceptual judgments of musical harmony.
Evaluation of variance approximation techniques for non-linear photosynthesis—irradiance models

Parameters derived from photosynthesis-irradiance (P-I) models, although often empirical in nature, are useful indicators of the photoadaptive state of phytoplankton in culture and in situ. However objective criteria for determining significant changes in P-I curves are rarely provided, because confidence intervals for parameters of non-linear models are not estimated easily. Examination of least-squares residuals in parameter space and Monte Carlo approaches have been used to estimate confidence regions around parameter values, but the computationally intensive nature of these methods has prevented their routine application. We present an alternative method of estimating confidence intervals for parameters of P-I curves that runs quickly on a microcomputer and is easily combined with common parameter-estimation routines. This algorithm was tested using a 3-parameter P-I model and curves describing a wide range of photoadaptive states, with different numbers of observations and different amounts of inherent variability. The method produced results comparable to the Monte Carlo technique. This analysis makes it possible to specify the sample size required to define parameters with acceptable confidence as a function of data variance and photoadaptive state. In most reasonable situations, 25 observations are sufficient.
Straight and Curved Conformations of FtsZ Are Regulated by GTP Hydrolysis

FtsZ assembles in vitro into protofilaments that can adopt two conformations—the straight conformation, which can assemble further into two-dimensional protofilament sheets, and the curved conformation, which forms minirings about 23 nm in diameter. Here, we describe the structure of FtsZ tubes, which are a variation of the curved conformation. In the tube the curved protofilament forms a shallow helix with a diameter of 23 nm and a pitch of 18 or 24°. We suggest that this shallow helix is the relaxed structure of the curved protofilament in solution. We provide evidence that GTP favors the straight conformation while GDP favors the curved conformation. In particular, exclusively straight protofilaments and protofilament sheets are assembled in GMPCPP, a nonhydrolyzable GTP analog, or in GTP following chelation of Mg, which blocks GTP hydrolysis. Assembly in GDP produces exclusively tubes. The transition from straight protofilaments to the curved conformation may provide a mechanism whereby the energy of GTP hydrolysis is used to generate force for the constriction of the FtsZ ring in cell division.
Receiver Optimization in Turbulent Free-Space Optical MIMO Channels With APDs and $Q$ -ary PPM

We propose an accurate, robust avalanche photodiode (APD) receiver optimization scheme for multiple-input/multiple-output (MIMO) free-space optical links with Q-ary pulse position modulation in the presence of atmospheric turbulence. Through extensive error probability (Pe ) analysis, we show that selecting the APD gain such that the nonfading receiver-array signal-to-noise ratio is maximized essentially minimizes Pe in turbulent MIMO channels with M=2 transmitters and N=2 receivers, for several turbulence and background-radiation levels of interest
Assisted Suicide: Factors Affecting Public Attitudes:

Public support for assisted suicide has been growing despite the ethical questions raised by members of the medical profession. Previous research suggests that age, gender, experience, and religiosity are factors affecting individuals' attitudes. This study examines the effect of demographic and ideological factors, as well as individuals' caregiving experiences, on attitudes toward assisted suicide. Random-digit-dialing procedures produced a sample of 156 residents of Denton, Texas, in March 1998. T-tests were conducted to measure significance, while gamma values were used to measure level of association and percent reduction in error. The data indicate that age, gender, and caregiving experience were not significant predictors of attitudes. Situational factors, including whether a physician or friend/family member should assist and whether a child or a terminally ill patient experiencing no pain should receive assistance, all were highly significant and positively associated with attitudes toward assist...
NEW INSIGHTS INTO FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING AND TEACHING

NEW INSIGHTS INTO FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING AND TEACHING. Kees van Esch and Oliver St. John (Eds.). Berlin: Peter Lang, 2004. Pp. 239. $47.95 paper.Although this work constitutes Volume 9 of the series Foreign language teaching in Europe, the reader should take literally neither the latter geographical indication nor the title's claim to novelty. Whereas the first half of the dozen authors are American and the second half European, the topics largely cut across the oceanic divide. As for the topics, they correspond to major themes in the field of second and foreign language education over the span of the last two decades.
Rapid rare earth separation by pressurized ion exchange chromatography

Abstract The use of pressurized ion exchange chromatography for the rapid separation of all the rare earth elements was demonstrated. With Dowex 50W-X8 ion exchange resin and a concentration gradient of α-hydroxyisobutyrate solution, quantitative separations were achieved in 1 to 2 hr when rare earth loadings were several per cent of the resin capacity. The results indicate that scale-up to industrial production rates is practical.
Single flexion-axis selection influences femoral component alignment and kinematics during knee simulation:

The objective of this paper is to investigate the effect of the implant geometry and alignment on its surface displacement, and to show that the proposed method of alignment can be used to improve the consistency of total knee replacement alignment for knee simulation. Poor femoral flexion-axis selection in the alignment process can possibly alter the intended design's functionality and introduce significant anterior/posterior (A/P), and proximal/distal (P/D) displacements. In the study, four multi-axis femoral components from each of two different manufacturers, NKII and 3DKnee, were used. A custom-built femoral alignment and surface measurement instrument was used to adjust and locate the single femoral axis position for each implant, which would optimally minimize their P/D displacements and A/P translations. The aligned NKII implants yielded a mean implant maximum P/D and A/P contact point shifts of 0.577 ± 0.078 mm (± std. dev.) and of 2.325 ± 0.243 mm between 0 and 60° of flexion, which was signific...
Stable and controllable RNA interference: Investigating the physiological function of glutathionylated actin

RNA interference is an effective method to silence specific gene expression. Its application to mammalian cells, however, has been hampered by various shortcomings. Recently, it was reported that introduction of 22-bp double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) would specifically suppress expression of endogenous and heterogeneous genes in various mammalian cell lines. However, using this method, we failed to knock out proteins of interest effectively. Here we report the development of a stable and controllable method for generating dsRNA intracellularly. Tetracycline-responsive transactivator-containing cells were transfected with a vector capable of tetracycline-induced bidirectionally overexpressing sense and antisense RNA to form dsRNA in vivo. With this method, glutaredoxin, monitored by Western blot, was knocked out by overexpressing 290-base sense and antisense RNA in NIH 3T3 cells controlled by tetracycline or doxycycline. By using these glutaredoxin knocked-out cells, we have demonstrated that actin deglutathionylation plays a key role in growth factor-mediated actin polymerization, translocalization, and reorganization near the cell periphery.
A profile of immune response to herpesvirus is associated with radiographic joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis

Progression of joint damage despite appropriate therapy remains a significant problem for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study was undertaken to identify profiles of immune response that correlate with radiographic joint damage as a first step toward the discovery of new pathogenic mechanisms of joint destruction in RA. The study included 58 patients with RA and 15 healthy controls. The profiles of cytokine release from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in response to stimulation for 48 hours with one of six stimuli, or in media alone, were measured. Immune response profiles identified for each stimulus were correlated with radiographic joint damage as defined by the Sharp-van der Heijde score (SHS), before and after multivariable adjustment. For profiles correlated with the SHS, the distributions of individual cytokines were evaluated in patients according to the severity of joint damage and compared to healthy controls. The immune response profile for cytomegalovirus (CMV)/Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) stimulation was correlated with both the SHS total and erosion scores (r = 0.31, P = 0.018 and r = 0.33, P = 0.011, respectively). After adjusting for age, sex, disease duration, autoantibody status, CMV/EBV serological status, current disease activity, disability and treatments, the correlation of the CMV/EBV immune response and the SHS erosion score became stronger (r = 0.43, P < 0.003). The CMV/EBV immune response correlated with CMV IgG (r = 0.44, P < 0.001), but not with EBV IgG. The most important cytokines for the CMV/EBV immune response profile were IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 and IL-17A, all of which are associated with T-cell immunity. Both the summary immune response score and the individual responses of IFN-γ and IL-13 to CMV/EBV stimulation were associated with greater joint damage. A profile of immune response to purified CMV/EBV lysates is associated with radiographic joint damage. The correlation of this immune response to CMV serology implies possible involvement of latent CMV infection. Therefore, the findings suggest that the immune response to latent CMV infection could play a fundamental role in the progression of inflammation and structural joint damage in patients with RA.
Implementation of an Integrated Longitudinal Curricular Activity for Graduating Pharmacy Students

Objectives. To evaluate whether a novel integrated longitudinal curricular activity to prepare graduating doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) students for 2 comprehensive examinations was successful, and to assess whether it engaged other pharmacy students in curricular discussion and learning.Design. Thirty-eight of 91graduating third-year (P3) students in a PharmD program formed 11 teams to create and present pharmacotherapeutic posters to their peers. The impact of the novel activity on graduating students’ performance on the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and a comprehensive commercial examination was assessed. All first-year (P1), second-year (P2), and P3 students reviewed and discussed the content of each poster.Assessment. Participants in the integrated longitudinal curricular activity performed better than nonparticipants on the commercial examination (p=0.023) and NAPLEX (p=0.033). However, regardless of participation, commercial examination scores predicted a significant amount...
Interventions with Vitamins B6, B12 and C in Pregnancy

The water-soluble vitamins B6, B12 and C play important roles in maternal health as well as fetal development and physiology during gestation. This systematic review evaluates the risks and benefits of interventions with vitamins B6, B12 and C during pregnancy on maternal, neonatal and child health and nutrition outcomes. Relevant publications were identified by searching PubMed, Popline and Web of Science databases. Meta-analyses were conducted for outcomes where results from at least three controlled trials were available. Potential benefits of vitamin B6 supplementation were reduction in nausea and vomiting, improvement in dental health, and treatment of some cases of anaemia. In meta-analysis based on three small studies, vitamin B6 supplementation had a significant positive effect on birthweight (d = 217 g [95% confidence interval (CI) 130, 304]). Interventions with vitamin C alone or combined with vitamin E did not systematically reduce the incidence of pre-eclampsia, premature rupture of membranes, or other adverse pregnancy outcomes. In meta-analyses, vitamins C and E increased the risk of pregnancy-related hypertension (relative risk 1.10 [95% CI 1.02, 1.19]). Effects of vitamin B6 or C intervention on other neonatal outcomes, including preterm birth, low birthweight, and perinatal morbidity and mortality, were not significant. Data on child health outcomes were lacking. Despite the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency amongst populations with limited intake of animal source foods, no intervention trials have evaluated vitamin B12 supplementation before or during pregnancy. In conclusion, existing evidence does not justify vitamin C supplementation during pregnancy. Additional studies are needed to confirm positive effects of vitamin B6 supplementation on infant birthweight and other outcomes. While vitamin B12 supplementation may reduce the incidence of neural tube defects in the offspring based on theoretical considerations, research is needed to support this hypothesis.
HIV and concurrent sexual partnerships: modelling the role of coital dilution

The concurrency hypothesis asserts that high prevalence of overlapping sexual partnerships explains extraordinarily high HIV levels in sub-Saharan Africa. Earlier simulation models show that the network effect of concurrency can increase HIV incidence, but those models do not account for the coital dilution effect (non-primary partnerships have lower coital frequency than primary partnerships).
Distribution of Culture-Bound Illnesses in the Southern Peruvian Andes

An epidemiologic investigation of three culture-bound illnesses in the Peruvian Andes shows significant variation in prevalence according to age, gender, and social stratification, as indicated by residence. Data were collected on the three illnesses, manchariska, machu wayra, and machu hapiska, in the Nunoa district, in the southern Peruvian Andes (N = 384 individuals). Period prevalence for manchariska is 6.77 episodes per 100 persons per year (95% c.i. = 4.47 to 9.76); for machu wayra, 3.13 (95% c.i. = 1.63 to 5.40); and for machu hapiska, 052 (95% c.i. = 0.06 to 1.87). Manchariska rates are highest among children, whereas machu wayra and machu hapiska are confined to adults, especially the elderly. Females are over eight times more likely than males to have machu wayra (p = .013). Households in the poorer communities are more likely to report the illnesses compared with others. Households with one or more culture-bound illness episodes report a higher number of other problems, but culture-bound illness prevalence is not correlated with poor child health as reflected by anthropometric measures of child growth. Future research should link epidemiologic methods with more traditional ethnographic approaches and more thoroughly investigate the ethnomedical reasons why some groups have a higher probability of experiencing culture-boundillnesses than others.
DNA-Dependent RNA Polymerases from Artemia salina: Decreasing Polymerase Activities and Number of Polymerase II Molecules in Developing Larvae

Embryos and larvae of the brine shrimp, Artemia salina, provide a useful biological system for biochemical studies of animal development. Dormant encysted embryos can be cultured readily in the laboratory to provide large quantities of free-swimming nauplius larvae. The rate of synthesis of all classes of RNA in swimming larvae declines markedly between 24 and 72 h after immersion of dormant embryos in sea water. Nuclei were isolated from 24–72 h larvae and RNA polymerase activity was measured under conditions in which the nuclei remained intact. Total RNA polymerase activity of isolated nuclei decreased in parallel with RNA synthesis in vivo. RNA polymerases were solubilized from nuclei and fractionated by chromatography on DEAE-cellulose. The levels of both RNA polymerases I and II also decreased in parallel with RNA synthesis in vivo. The specific activity of highly purified RNA polymerase II was determined by comparison of enzyme activity with the mass of RNA polymerase II subunits displayed on SDS gels. The specific activities of RNA polymerase II preparations from 24 and 72 h larvae were identical. The number of polymerase II molecules was estimated from the mass of the subunits. The number of molecules per nucleus declined from 20,000 at 24 h to 3500 at 72 h.
Basaloid Follicular Hamartoma with Trichoblastomatous Proliferations

Background: Basaloid follicular hamartomas (BFH) are rare, benign, adnexal lesions with diverse clinical presentations. Previous studies documented BFHs with fibroepithelioma of Pinkus-like proliferations, or proliferations that resemble trichoepitheliomas. Objective: We report on a patient with linear, unilateral BFH and extensive trichoblastomatous proliferations involving the right arm, torso, and leg. An 18-year-old female presented with multiple, hyperkeratotic, linear nodules and plaques limited to her right side from the shoulder to the leg. The lesions had existed since birth and gradually increased over time. Results: The lesions contained hyperpigmented, exophytic nodules with acanthosis, pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia, focally associated with hyperkeratosis, and squamous eddies. Some areas contained trichoepithelioma-like proliferations, or large nodules of basaloid cells with numerous cystic spaces, marked hyperpigmentation, and melanophages. The diagnosis was linear, unilateral BFH with an unusual trichoblastomatous component. Conclusion: While trichoblastomatous proliferations could occur in a BFH, to our knowledge this finding has not been reported.
Structural chemistry, phase equilibria and phase transitions in graphite intercalation compounds

This NATO Advanced Study Institute is the first time since 1978 that people working on different classes of “intercalation compounds” have been brought together. The unifying theme is the tailoring of properties by inserting guest atoms or molecules into more-or-less well-defined interstitial sites defined by a more-or-less anisotropic host lattice. The properties of interest may be primarily electronic (e.g., synthetic metals derived from doped polymers, intercalated graphite, etc.), ionic transport (solid electrolytes, superionic conductors), magnetic, etc. In all cases an important first step is to understand the rich and complex structural chemistry which results from competing microscopic interactions in low-dimensional, multicomponent systems. In particular, the most novel physical properties often depend sensitively on the effective dimensionality, a “parameter” which is not always straightforward to define.
A linear space algorithm for computing maximal common subsequences

The problem of finding a longest common subsequence of two strings has been solved in quadratic time and space. An algorithm is presented which will solve this problem in quadratic time and in linear space.
Prohibiting nuclear weapons: initiatives towards global nuclear disarmament

The world now stands at a precarious nuclear fork in the road with the following characteristics: the Nuclear Left Path is characterized by continued vertical and horizontal proliferation of nuclear weapons with the danger being that any nation (or terrorist group) that wants such weapons, and can afford them, will eventually secure them; the Nuclear Right Path prohibits all nuclear weapons and leads ideally to global nuclear disarmament where the threat of nuclear war is minimized. The article is concerned with several initiatives that could be taken in order to follow the Nuclear Right Path and perhaps achieve global nuclear disarmament. The Nuclear Right Path requires a commitment of leadership from the US to vigorously promote new initiatives that seek to reduce, and perhaps totally eliminate, all nuclear weapons from Earth. These include, but are not limited, to the following: multilateral, phased reductions in strategic nuclear weapons delivery systems; complete cessation of all flight tests of long-range missiles; a global nuclear warhead dismantlement plan with effective economic incentives; a firm commitment from all nations to stop producing missile materials for nuclear weapons. Besides Russia, the key nation in future negotiations to reduce nuclear weapon arsenals is China which faces unique challenges in providing for its burgeoning population and who stands today at the threshold of economic superpower status.
Sequence-stratigraphic analysis using well cuttings, Mississippian Greenbrier Group, West Virginia

Well-cuttings analysis predates modern carbonate facies analysis, sequence stratigraphy, seismic reflection surveys, and advanced geophysical logging techniques. These newer methods have resulted in well cuttings becoming less important as a major source of data for high-resolution subsurface analysis. Binocular analysis of well-indurated Paleozoic well cuttings can be used to construct detailed vertical facies successions in wells when tied to wire-line logs. Facies analysis can then be used to construct higher resolution sequence-stratigraphic frameworks and time-slice maps. This approach was tested on Mississippian carbonates in the Appalachian Basin of West Virginia. The analysis was done using the washed coarse fraction (1–2 mm; 0.04–0.08 in.) of the cuttings for each sample interval, classified according to Dunham rock type, counted to determine relative abundance, and plotted as percent lithology versus depth for each well. Digitized wire-line logs and the cuttings-percent logs were adjusted (typically 10 ft [3 m] or so) to consider drilling lag, lithologic columns were produced from the combined data, and sequences were picked. Gamma-ray markers were used to correlate the sections, and sequence-stratigraphic cross sections were produced. Time-slice maps were generated that show the thickness of the individual sequences and the distribution of major facies within systems tracts. This approach generated a rock-based, high-resolution sequence framework for the reservoir and led to a much better understanding of controls on the distribution and stacking of reservoirs.
Historical biogeography and life‐history evolution of Andean Puya (Bromeliaceae)

Puya (Bromeliaceae), with > 200 species, is a classic example of a recent, rapid species-level radiation in the Andes. To assess the biogeographical history of this primarily Andean species group and the evolution of different life histories, amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) data were generated for 75 species from throughout the geographical range of the genus. Distribution data for latitudinal and elevational ranges were compiled for almost all species. The greatest number of species is found at mid-elevations and mid-latitudes south of the equator. The genus originated in central Chile and first moved into the Cordillera Oriental of the central Andes via inter-Andean valleys. Cladogenesis progressed in a general south to north direction tracking the final uplift of the Andes. All taxa north of the Western Andean Portal form a monophyletic group implying a single colonization of the northern Andes, with no subsequent transitions back south from the Northern Andes. Repeated evolutionary transitions of lineages up and down in elevation are suggestive of allopatric speciation driven by Pleistocene glaciation cycles. True semelparity evolved once in P. raimondii, with similar semi-semelparity evolving repeatedly in paramos of the northern Andes. Fieldwork and phylogenetic characterization of high-elevation Puya are priorities for future efforts. © 2012 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2012, ●●, ●●–●●.
A Matter of Respect: A Defense of the Dead Donor Rule and of a “Whole-Brain” Criterion for Determination of Death

Many accounts of the historical development of neurological criteria for determination of death insufficiently distinguish between two strands of interpretation advanced by advocates of a "whole-brain" criterion. One strand focuses on the brain as the organ of integration. Another provides a far more complex and nuanced account, both of death and of a policy on the determination of death. Current criticisms of the whole-brain criterion are effective in refuting the first interpretation, but not the second, which is advanced in the 2008 President's Council report on the determination of death. In this essay, I seek to further develop this second strand of interpretation. I argue thatpolicy on determination of death aligns moral, biological, and ontological death concepts. Morally, death marks the stage when respect is no longer owed. Biologically, death concerns integrated functioning of an organism as a whole. But the biological concepts are underdetermined. The moral concerns lead to selection of strong individuality concepts rather than weak ones. They also push criteria to the "far side" of the dying process. There is a countervailing consideration associated with optimizing the number of available organs, and this pushes to the "near side" of death. Policy is governed by a conviction that it is possible to align these moral and biological death concepts, but this conviction simply lays out an agenda. There is also a prescription―integral to the dead donor rule―that lexically prioritizes the deontic concerns and that seeks to balance the countervailing tendencies by using science-based refinements to make the line between life and death more precise. After showing how these concerns have been effectively aligned in the current policy, I present a modified variant of a "division" scenario and show how an "inverse decapitation problem" leads to a conclusive refutation of the nonbrain account of death. Defense of the DDR and of a "Whole-Brain" Criterion for Determination of Death 331.
Uranine: Real-time privacy leakage monitoring without system modification for android

Mobile devices are becoming increasingly popular. One reason for their popularity is the availability of a wide range of third-party applications, which enrich the environment and increase usability. There are however privacy concerns centered around these applications – users do not know what private data is leaked by the applications. Previous works to detect privacy leakages are either not accurate enough or require operating system changes, which may not be possible due to users’ lack of skills or locked devices. We present Uranine (Uranine is a dye, which finds applications as a flow tracer in medicine and environmental studies.), a system that instruments Android applications to detect privacy leakages in real-time. Uranine does not require any platform modification nor does it need the application source code. We designed several mechanisms to overcome the challenges of tracking information flow across framework code, handling callback functions, and expressing all information-flow tracking at the bytecode level. Our evaluation of Uranine shows that it is accurate at detecting privacy leaks and has acceptable performance overhead.
Plasmonically Enhanced Thermomechanical Detection of Infrared Radiation

Nanoplasmonics has been an attractive area of research due to its ability to localize and manipulate freely propagating radiation on the nanometer scale for strong light-matter interactions. Meanwhile, nanomechanics has set records in the sensing of mass, force, and displacement. In this work, we report efficient coupling between infrared radiation and nanomechanical resonators through nanoantenna enhanced thermoplasmonic effects. Using efficient conversion of electromagnetic energy to mechanical energy in this plasmo-thermomechanical platform with a nanoslot plasmonic absorber integrated directly on a nanobeam mechanical resonator, we demonstrate room-temperature detection of nanowatt level power fluctuations in infrared radiation. We expect our approach, which combines nanoplasmonics with nanomechanical resonators, to lead to optically controlled nanomechanical systems enabling unprecedented functionality in biomolecular and toxic gas sensing and on-chip mass spectroscopy.
GENETIC STUDIES IN THE GENUS BASIDIOBOLUS. I. ISOZYME VARIATION AMONG ISOLATES OF HUMAN AND NATURAL POPULATIONS

Genetic variation and its distribution among populations and putative species of 70 isolates in the genus Basidiobolus were analyzed by means of electrophoretic analysis of soluble enzymes. Five enzyme systems were examined and showed large variation. Among laboratory isolates, only one of B. microsporus could be distinguished by means of cluster analysis. Patterns of variation among natural isolates revealed little differentiation with respect to host (toad vs lizard), but very strong patterns of geographical differentiation. Furthermore, natural isolates were quite distinct from laboratory strains tested. These results suggest that the genus Basidiobolus is genetically very heterogeneous, and this fact may contribute to difficulties encountered in defining taxonomic relationships.