cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of an Electric Field on the Gas-Chromatographic Properties of Cholesteric Liquid-Crystal Stationary Phases

Abstract Gas-chromatographic properties were determined using a homologous series of carboxylic acid esters of cholesterol as stationary phases and several homologous series of organic species, having different functional groups, as volatile solutes. In general, the capacity ratios for the various solutes increased upon application of an electric field. On a relative basis, the change with potential was larger for solutes having smaller capacity ratios, for solvents having a longer acyl chain length of the liquid crystal, and for a faster carrier-gas now rate.
THE EFFECT OF FINITE-RATE HEAT RELEASE ON THE SOLIDIFICATION OF AN UNDERCOOLED PURE LIQUID

A mathematical model is formulated to describe the effect of finite rate heat release on solidification in an undercooled pure liquid, and to predict the macroscopic propagation speed of a solidification front through the bulk material. The problem is formulated in terms of continuum equations that describe heat and mass transport in a volumetrically averaged mixture of solid and liquid. A relatively thin phase transformation region, called the solidification zone, exists between thicker regions of pure liquid and solid. The solidification zone is examined on a length scale larger than any microstructural detail, yet smaller than macroscopic thermal conduction length scales in the pure liquid and solid regions. The continuum equations used in this ‘mesoscale’ model contain source terms representing the volumetrically averaged, finite rate phase transformation process occurring within the solidification zone. Solutions are obtained for a source term of the Arrhenius type, derived from an application of nucleation theory. Front speed variation with degree of undercooling is found to be quantitatively similar to that in relevant experiments in pure metals.
Acute Uterine Bleeding Unrelated to Pregnancy: A Southern California Permanente Medical Group Practice Guideline

Acute uterine bleeding unrelated to pregnancy has been defined as bleeding "sufficient in volume as to, in the opinion of the treating clinician, require urgent or emergent intervention." The Southern California Permanente Medical Group updated its guidelines for the management of this condition on the basis of the best available evidence, as identified in a systematic review of the available literature. Given the paucity of studies evaluating this condition, the guidelines, by necessity, include recommendations largely based on opinion or other sources such as case series that are, in general, categorized as low-quality evidence. Medical interventions with single or combined gonadal steroidal agents administered parenterally or orally show promise, but more high-quality studies are needed to better define the appropriate drugs, dose, and administrative scheduling. There is also some evidence that intrauterine tamponade may be useful in at least selected cases. Special attention must be paid to both diagnosing and treating inherited disorders of hemostasis, such as von Willebrand disease, that may otherwise be underdiagnosed in both adolescent and adult women.
Correlation of gastric emptying at one and two hours following formula feeding

The acquisition of gastric emptying (GE) date by scintigraphy has become an important component of the evaluation of the pediatric patient for gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Delay of GE can contribute to ongoing gastric distension and hence increase propensity to reflux. Generally, only 1 h GE is determined during scintigraphy. Infants with GER have variable patterns of symptoms: some have spitting, vomiting, choking, and/or apparent life-threatening events in the immediate ostprandial period only, whereas in others symptoms persist until the time of next feeding. It is not clear whether differential rates of GE contribute towards such disparity of symptoms. We performed this prospective study to determine the correlation between GE at 1 h or 2 h, respectively, and for 2 h following a feeding in 27 infants under one year of age, who were referred for evaluation of GER. Continuos scintigraphy was performed for 2 h following a formula feeding. Gastric emptying at 1 h was calculated as percent of original dose emptied by 60 min; GE at 2 h was calculated as percent of isotope remaining in the stomach at 60 min which was emptied by 120 min. The median GE between 0 to 60 min was 36% (95% CI26.0-42.0) and median GE of the residual formula between 60 to 120 min was 45% (95% CI34.3-51.3). The correlation coefficient of GE, at 1 h with total GE over 2 h was 0.75 and of GE during the 2nd h with total GE over 2 h was 0.76. We conclude that routine determination of GE for 2 h continuously does not appear to offer clinically significant additional information.
An effect of growth hormone on hexose phosphate metabolism.

SummaryGlucose- and fructose-6-phosphate were assayed in the skeletal muscle of normal and hypophysectomized female rats, with and without growth hormone treatment, one hour after a glucose injection. The results show a statistically significant increase in the glucose-6-phosphate content of the muscle of rats receiving GH when compared to glucose-6-phosphate levels in controls, as well as less striking increases in fructose-6-phosphate levels.
Salt Restriction Leads to Activation of Adult Renal Mesenchymal Stromal Cell–Like Cells via Prostaglandin E2 and E-Prostanoid Receptor 4

Despite the importance of juxtaglomerular cell recruitment in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases, the mechanisms that underlie renin production under conditions of chronic stimulation remain elusive. We have previously shown that CD44+ mesenchymal-like cells (CD44+ cells) exist in the adult kidney. Under chronic sodium deprivation, these cells are recruited to the juxtaglomerular area and differentiate to new renin-expressing cells. Given the proximity of macula densa to the juxtaglomerular area and the importance of macula densa released prostanoids in renin synthesis and release, we hypothesized that chronic sodium deprivation induces macula densa release of prostanoids, stimulating renal CD44+ cell activation and differentiation. CD44+ cells were isolated from adult kidneys and cocultured with the macula densa cell line, MMDD1, in normal or low-sodium medium. Low sodium stimulated prostaglandin E2 production by MMDD1 and induced migration of CD44+ cells. These effects were inhibited by addition of a cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitor (NS398) or an E-prostanoid receptor 4 antagonist (AH23848) to MMDD1 or CD44+ cells, respectively. Addition of prostaglandin E2 to CD44+ cells increased cell migration and induced renin expression. In vivo activation of renal CD44+ cells during juxtaglomerular recruitment was attenuated in wild-type mice subjected to salt restriction in the presence of cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitor rofecoxib. Similar results were observed in E-prostanoid receptor 4 knockout mice subjected to salt restriction. These results show that the prostaglandin E2/E-prostanoid receptor 4 pathway plays a key role in the activation of renal CD44+ mesenchymal stromal cell-like cells during conditions of juxtaglomerular recruitment; highlighting the importance of this pathway as a key regulatory mechanism of juxtaglomerular recruitment.
Luneberg apodization problem I.

The Luneberg apodization problem on the determination of pupil function giving maximum central value of the point-spread function of an incoherent imaging system is considered subject to the condition that the total power in the pupil is fixed. It is shown that, irrespective of the shape of the pupil, any amplitude variations reduce the central irradiance and any phase variations further reduce it, thus showing that an unapodized–unaberrated pupil gives maximum central irradiance. Through consideration of several examples of apodization of centrally obscured circular pupils, it is shown that the effects of large amplitude variations on the central irradiance are small compared with the effects of small phase aberrations.
Some Simulation Results for the Time to Indicate Phase Lock

A digital simulation of a second-order phase-lock loop (PLL) acquiring lock in the presence of noise is reported. Since the system simulated includes lock-indicating circuitry, a distinction is made between the time to phase lock and the time to indicate lock. The parameter of interest is the time to indicate lock. The major results of the simulation are estimates of 1) the mean time to indicate lock, and 2) the probability distribution function for the mean time to indicate lock. Results are presented for a wide range of signal-to-noise ratios and for input frequency offsets ranging from one-half to three times the phase-lock loop noise bandwidth. In each case 100 independent trials of the simulation were conducted to obtain the estimate. It is found that the mean time to indicate lock is relatively independent of signal-to-noise ratio ( S/N ) down to about S/N = 10 dB. For greater values of S/N the mean time to indicate lock may be closely approximated by the time to indicate lock in the absence of noise. The results are compared with Viterbi's time to frequency lock and found in good agreement for the high S/N cases. Most of the difference is attributed to the time constant of the lock indicating circuitry. The system simulated is considered representative of many practical phase-lock receiving systems where there is a requirement for indicating acquisition of lock. Hence, the data presented in this paper can be used to good advantage for estimating the probability of acquiring and indicating lock in a specified time.
Characterizing Fabric Pilling by Using Image-analysis Techniques. Part I: Pill Detection and Description

Software was developed to detect and describe pills on solid-shade fabrics after being imaged with conventional personal-computer-based hardware. Information provided by the software included: the total number, total area, and total volume of pills present; distributions of pill size, shape, orientation angle, and contrast; and the uniformity of pill spatial distribution on the fabric. Usefulness of the hardware/software tool was evaluated by: assessing the accuracy of pill detection; measuring the reproducibility of pilling measurements; visualizing the influence of abrasive motion on pilling; comparing pilling on fabrics abraded by different laboratory-abrasion testers; and evaluating the effects of the number of laboratory-abrasion cycles, fiber content, and durable-press finish on pilling.
Vector-space solution for a morphological shape-decomposition problem

We define a restricted domain as the discrete set of points representing any convex, four-connected, filled polygon whose (i) vertices lie on the lattice points, (ii) interior angles are multiples of 45°, and (iii) number of sides are at most eight. We describe the boundary code and discrete half-plane representation and use them for representing restricted domains. Morphological operations of dilation and n-fold dilation on the restricted domains with structuring elements that are also restricted domains are expressed in terms of the above representations. We give algorithms for these operations and prove that they are of O(1) complexity and hence are independent of the size of the objects.
Lost demand in a competitive environment

In most analyses performed on consumer behaviour in a competitive environment, it is assumed that discretionary buying power devoted to a certain product category exists in a trade area. The goal is to estimate how this buying power is distributed among competing retail facilities in the area. In this paper, we assume that in many competitive situations not all the buying power is spent at the competing facilities because there are other facilities that offer substitute products. These substitute products are not as desirable as the product in question, but customers will purchase the less desirable substitutes if they are more conveniently available. We construct a model that considers a decline in demand as a function of the distance to competing facilities. If the competing facilities are close to the customers, a larger portion of the buying power will be spent at these facilities. Two objectives are considered. One is the maximization of the buying power spent at all competing facilities, and the second is the maximization of the buying power captured by one's chain of retail facilities. Solution methods for the location of one facility are proposed and computational experiments with these methods are reported.
Cleavage of the peptide bond of β-alanyl-L-histidine (carnosine) induced by a CoIII–amine complexes: reaction, structure and mechanism

Cleavage of the peptide bond occurs when β-alanyl-L-histidine (carnosine) reacts with [Co(tren)Cl2]+ (tren = tris(2-aminoethyl)amine) to give [Co(tren)(histidine)]2+1 and [Co(tren)(β-alanine)]2+2. [Co(tren)(histidine)]2+1 crystallizes in the enantiomorphic space group P212121 and 2 crystallizes in the P21/c space group. The mechanism of the cleavage reactions were studied in detail for the precursor [Co(tren)Cl2]+ and [Co(trien)Cl2]+, which convert into [Co(tren)(OH)2]+/[Co(tren)(OH)(OH2)]2+ and [Co(trien)(OH)2]+/[Co(trien)(OH)(OH2)]2+ in water at basic pH (trien = 1,4,7,10-tetraazadecane). At a slightly basic pH, the initial coordination of the substrate (β-alanyl-L-histidine) is by the carboxylate group for the reaction with [Co(tren)Cl2]+. This is followed by a rate-limiting nucleophilic attack of the hydroxide group at the β-alanyl-L-histidine carbonyl group. In a strongly basic reaction medium substrate, binding of the metal was through carboxylate and amine terminals. On the other hand, for the reaction between [cis-β-Co(trien)Cl2]+ and β-alanyl-L-histidine, the initial coordination of the substrate takes place via an imidazole ring nitrogen, independently, and followed by a nucleophilic attack of the hydroxide group at the β-alanyl-L-histidine carbonyl group. The circular dichroism spectrum for 1 suggests that a very small extent of racemization of the amino acid (L-histidine) takes place during the cleavage reaction between [Co(tren)Cl2]+ and β-alanyl-L-histidine. Reaction between [cis-β-Co(trien)Cl2]+ and β-alanyl-L-histidine also causes cleavage of the peptide bond, producing a free β-alanyl molecule and a cationic fragment [cis-α-Co(trien)(histidine)]2+3 that crystallizes in the optically active space group P212121. Unlike the previous case an appreciable degree of racemization of the L-histidine takes place during the reaction between [cis-β-Co(trien)Cl2]+ and β-alanyl-L-histidine. Crystals containing L-histidine and D-histidine fragments in the [cis-α-Co(trien)(histidine)]2+ moiety were crystallographically documented by mounting a number of randomly selected crystals.
Now or later: evaluating the importance of chemotherapy timing in resectable stage III (N2) lung cancer in the National Cancer Database.

Background Preoperative chemotherapy improves the survival of surgically managed stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A proportion of stage III NSCLC patients in the United States have undergone operations primarily and been given chemotherapy postoperatively. It is unclear whether postoperative chemotherapy is as effective as preoperative chemotherapy. Our objective was to determine the survival of resected stage III NSCLC according to the timing of chemotherapy. Methods The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was queried for clinical T1–4N2M0 NSCLC (cstage III–cN2) undergoing lobectomy or pneumonectomy between 2003 and 2006. Results 1,356 patients with surgically managed cstage III–cN2 disease who received preoperative chemotherapy were compared with 649 patients receiving postoperative chemotherapy. In a Cox proportional hazards model with adjustment for demographics, comorbidities, and tumor attributes, the results of postoperative chemotherapy appeared similar to those of preoperative chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.93–1.19, p = 0.438). In separate Cox models, the results of postoperative chemotherapy alone were similar to those of preoperative chemotherapy alone (HR = 1.106, 95% CI 0.91–1.344, p = 0.3124). The results of postoperative chemotherapy + radiation were similar to those of preoperative chemotherapy + radiation (HR = 1.125, 95% CI 0.949–1.333, p = -0.175). Conclusions Adjusted comparison of preoperative and postoperative chemotherapy results for cstage III–N2 NSCLC in the NCDB failed to identify a superior chemotherapy approach. This suggests that a more rigorous examination of the widely held view that preoperative chemotherapy is superior may be warranted.
Thermodynamics and Kinetics of CO2 Adsorption on Dehydrated Palladium/Cobalt-Based Cyanogels: A Highly Selective, Fully Reversible System for CO2 Storage

Carbon dioxide is selectively adsorbed on cyanide-bridged palladium/cobalt gels, synthesized from aqueous solutions of Na 2 PdCl 4 and K 3 [Co(CN) 6 ]. The cyanide bridges, connecting the palladium and cobalt metal centers, are characteristic of these gels; hence, these gels are termed cyanogels. The thermodynamics and kinetics of the CO 2 adsorption and desorption processes on aerogels and xerogels formed from Pd/Co cyanogels are analyzed here. Aerogel versus xerogel structures have a profound effect on the thermodynamics and kinetics of CO 2 adsorption. The CO 2 adsorption process is fully reversible on both types of gels discussed. The gas adsorption capacity of the aerogel exceeds that of the xerogel by a factor of slightly over two. From the ease and reproducibility of the CO 2 desorption and the associated enthalpy values, it is concluded that CO 2 is physisorbed on these gels. The kinetics of adsorption and desorption are analyzed: both processes are first-order in the gels.
Kaon condensation and Goldstone's theorem

Abstract We consider QCD at a nonzero chemical potential for strangeness. At a critical value of the chemical potential equal to the kaon mass, kaon condensation occurs through a continuous phase transition. We show that in the limit of exact isospin symmetry a Goldstone boson with the dispersion relation E ∼ p 2 appears in the kaon condensed phase. At the same time, the number of the Goldstone bosons is less than the number of broken generators. Both phenomena are familiar in nonrelativistic systems. We interpret our results in terms of a Goldstone boson counting rule found previously by Nielsen and Chadha. We also formulate a criterion sufficient for the equality between the number of Goldstone bosons and the number of broken generators.
Crystal structure of the TSP-1 type 1 repeats a novel layered fold and its biological implication

Thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) contains three type 1 repeats (TSRs), which mediate cell attachment, glycosaminoglycan binding, inhibition of angiogenesis, activation of TGFβ, and inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases. The crystal structure of the TSRs reported in this article reveals a novel, antiparallel, three-stranded fold that consists of alternating stacked layers of tryptophan and arginine residues from respective strands, capped by disulfide bonds on each end. The front face of the TSR contains a right-handed spiral, positively charged groove that might be the “recognition” face, mediating interactions with various ligands. This is the first high-resolution crystal structure of a TSR domain that provides a prototypic architecture for structural and functional exploration of the diverse members of the TSR superfamily.
The distribution of hydrocortisone-14C, corticosterone-14C, and deoxycorticosterone-14C in pregnant mice†

The distributions of the glucocorticoid hydrocortisone-14C and the mineralocorticoid deoxycorticosterone-14C were compared with that of the natural murine hormone corticosterone-14C by whole-body autoradiography in pregnant A/J mice at 12.5 days of gestation. The patterns of distribution were similar for the three compounds. At 3 h after injection the highest concentrations of radioactivity were in maternal liver, bile, intestinal contents, kidney, and urine and uterine luminal fluid. Radioactivity in embryos was less than that in most maternal tissues. Embryonic brain had a slightly higher content and the embryonic palatal buds no higher amount of radioactivity than other embryonic tissues. The intense accumulation in the uterine lumen after all of the compounds suggests a secretory mechanism by the yolk sac that is not specific for a particular steroid.
A six-circle diffractometer system for synchrotron X-ray studies of surfaces and thin film growth by molecular beam epitaxy

Abstract A new ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) surface diffractometer system equipped with molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) capabilities has been developed. It has a versatile 6-circle configuration for defining the diffraction geometry, and a three-axis translation stage for controlling the sample position. Rugged mechanical components are employed in the design to allow accurate diffraction measurements. Sample cooling is facilitated by passing liquid nitrogen into a reservoir in the base of a sample mount. The sample can be heated to very high temperatures by either direct current heating or electron beam bombardment. During film growth and processing, the sample temperature, monitored by thermocouples, can be continuously and rapidly varied between ∼110 K to above room temperature. A charge coupled device (CCD) camera, attached to the μ circle, allows rapid reciprocal space mapping for real time studies of sample growth and evolution during deposition and annealing. A beam stop and a baffle are implemented to minimize stray scattered radiation.
Outcome after laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation of technically resectable colorectal liver metastases.

Background There continues to be controversy surrounding the appropriate use of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). This study analyzes outcomes data of CRLM patients who underwent laparoscopic RFA. Outcomes of patients determined to be technically resectable were compared to patients with unresectable disease.
Distribution and disposition of morpholine in the rabbit.

Abstract The results of a variety of in vivo and in vitro experiments suggested that the kidneys were the primary route of elimination of morpholine in the rabbit. Morpholine was not bound to seerum proteins and was excreted 90% unchanged. The concentration of [ 14 C] morpholine in the renal cortex was 6.6 times the concentration in the blood, and in renal medulla was 15.3 times the concentration in the blood 30 min after the intravenous injection of single boluses of labelled compound. The chemical appeared to be distributed mainly to the extracellular space, and its rate of elimination was enhanced by acidification of the urine.
A retrospective, pooled data analysis of the safety of pegaptanib sodium in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration in subjects with or without diabetes mellitus

To evaluate the safety of pegaptanib sodium 0.3 mg intravitreal injection in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration in subjects with or without diabetes mellitus. A pooled, retrospective, analysis was conducted of data from 9 sponsor-administered, randomized, open-label trials. Subjects who received pegaptanib by randomization or change in dose assignment, crossover design, or protocol amendment, were included. Reports of endophthalmitis, increased intraocular pressure, retinal injury, intraocular hemorrhage, traumatic cataract, hypersensitivity reactions, stroke, myocardial infarction, and other arterial thromboembolic events defined by the Antiplatelet Trialists’ Collaboration were identified by Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities preferred terms. Adverse events were summarized from the first injection to 42 days after the last injection. The incidence of adverse events was stratified by the presence/absence of diabetes. Of 1,586 subjects enrolled, 165 (10.4%) had a history of diabetes mellitus and 1,421 (89.6%) did not. The 2 populations were similar at baseline. Based on the comparison of prespecified ocular, hypersensitivity, and Antiplatelet Trialists’ Collaboration event terms, the safety review did not identify any notable differences between the 2 populations. This retrospective analysis found no increased safety risk resulting from treatment with pegaptanib 0.3 mg in individuals with neovascular age-related macular degeneration and concomitant diabetes mellitus.
Reversible gold “locked” synthetic vesicles derived from stimuli-responsive diblock copolymers

Polymersomes derived from a RAFT-generated, thermally responsive diblock copolymer, P(DMAEMA165-b-NIPAM435), were shell cross-linked by in situ gold nanoparticle formation. The cross-linking was subsequently reversed by the addition of the thiols capable of inducing a ligand exchange on the surface of the gold nanoparticle.
TreeQ-VISTA: an interactive tree visualization tool with functional annotation query capabilities

Summary: We describe a general multiplatform exploratory tool called TreeQ-Vista, designed for presenting functional annotations in a phylogenetic context. Traits, such as phenotypic and genomic properties, are interactively queried from a user-provided relational database with a user-friendly interface which provides a set of tools for users with or without SQL knowledge. The query results are projected onto a phylogenetic tree and can be displayed in multiple color groups. A rich set of browsing, grouping and query tools are provided to facilitate trait exploration, comparison and analysis. Availability: The program, detailed tutorial and examples are available online (http:/genome.lbl.gov/vista/TreeQVista). Contact: [email protected]
Analysis for correct reasoning by robots: modus ponens, modus tollens

Reasoning by a robot relates to commands it receives in the natural language in the form of incompletely stated arguments, i.e. enthymemes. An attempt is made by the robot to seek out missing premises or conclusions that will produce valid arguments on the basis of two inference rules, modus ponens and modus tollens. Component sentences of command arguments state a primary goal, an alternate goal, and a condition for achieving the primary goal. The number of valid command arguments that are valid by reason of the two inference rules is determined, and those that are plausible are established. These plausible command arguments are then grouped to convey plausible commands. Finally, the different plausible commands as enthymemes that can be supplied by the master are determined. Also determined are corresponding missing premises and conclusions that the robot seeks out in an attempt to achieve the primary goal. Theorems convey the results of the analysis. >
A Simpler Max-Product Maximum Weight Matching Algorithm and the Auction Algorithm

The max-product "belief propagation" algorithm has received a lot of attention recently due to its spectacular success in many application areas such as iterative decoding, computer vision and combinatorial optimization. There is a lot of ongoing work investigating the theoretical properties of the algorithm. In our previous work (2005) we showed that the max-product algorithm can be used to solve the problem of finding the Maximum Weight Matching (MWM) in a weighted complete bipartite graph. However, for a graph with n nodes the max-product algorithm requires O(n4) operations to find the MWM compared to O(n3) for best known algorithms such as those proposed by Edmonds and Karp (1972) and Bertsekas (1988). In this paper, we simplify the max-product algorithm to reduce the number of operations required to O(n3). The simplified algorithm has very similar dynamics to the well-known auction algorithm of Bertsekas (1988). To make this connection precise, we show that the max-product and auction algorithms, when slightly modified, are equivalent. We study the correctness of this modified algorithm. There is a tantalizing similarity between this connection and a recently observed connection between the max-product and LP-based algorithms for iterative decoding by Vontobel and Koetter.
Who Should Have Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation

During the last two decades, tremendous advances have been made in the performance and interpretation of breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations. Technical requirements for optimal breast imaging including the requirement for a breast MRI biopsy system are now being defined as part of a voluntary American College of Radiology (ACR) breast MRI accreditation program. The ACR BI-RADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) lexicon for breast MRI has brought uniformity to the interpretation of breast MRI examinations. With these advances in imaging technique, interpretation guidelines, and increasing availability of MR-compatible breast biopsy systems, MRI of the breast is rapidly gaining popularity in clinical practice in both the diagnostic setting and, more recently, in the screening setting. The clinical indications for breast MRI, however, remain to be defined. There are clinical indications that have emerged where MRI, as an adjunct to mammography, seems to be the imaging study of choice. There are other indications, specifically breast cancer staging, in which MRI is being utilized with increasing frequency, but in which controversy persists.
A multi-agent adaptive traffic signal control system using swarm intelligence and neuro-fuzzy reinforcement learning

This research develops and evaluates a new multi-agent adaptive traffic signal control system based on swarm intelligence and the neural-fuzzy actor-critic reinforcement learning (NFACRL) method. The proposed method combines the better attributes of swarm intelligence and the NFACRL method. Two scenarios are used to evaluate the method and the new NFACRL-Swarm method is compared with its NFACRL counterpart. First, the proposed control model is applied to isolated intersection signal adaptive control to evaluate its learning performance. Then, the control system is implemented in signal control coordination in a typical arterial. In the isolated intersection, the proposed hybrid method outperforms its previous counterpart by improving the learning speed and is shown to be insensitive to reward function parameters. In the network, by introducing a coordination scheme inspired by swarm intelligence, the proposed method improves the performance by up to 12% and has a faster learning speed.
Four and 6-year olds' biological concept of death: The case of plants

Three studies examined 4- and 6-year-olds' concept of death, particularly the components of universality, inevitability, finality, and causality, by focusing on plants. Experiment 1 was an interview in which participants answered questions about the death components for three plant types (a tree, a weed, and a flower). In Expt. 2, children pointed at drawings of plants and artifacts for which they believed the death components apply. Experiment 3 directly compared children's death concept of plants with that of animals. The results of Expts 1–3 showed that 6-year-olds and to some degree 4-year-olds understand the components of death and that these components apply to plants and animals, but not artifacts. However, there were significant differences in their understanding of death across the three different plant types as well as between plants and animals. These results suggest that children have a concept of death that includes plant and animal death, but that important changes take place between the ages of 4 and 6 years.
A Comprehensive Study of the Seismicity of the Kenai Peninsula–Cook Inlet Region, South-Central Alaska

Abstract We compare 30 yr of background seismicity of the Kenai Peninsula–Cook Inlet region (extending from eastern Prince William Sound–Kayak Island to west of the Cook Inlet volcanic arc) to potential field (gravity, magnetics), tomographic, Global Positioning System–geodesy, and geologic information to better determine factors controlling seismicity. We also compare the occurrence of M w >5 events over the past 80–100 yr to background seismicity in an effort to determine how reflective background seismicity is of the regional seismic hazard. Our results indicate that contrasts in upper plate rheology leading to changes in density, magnetic susceptibility, and velocity of the upper plate serve to concentrate seismicity. The southwestern edge of the subducting Yakutat microplate has a strong influence on both upper and lower plate seismicity. Density and velocity contrasts also indicate changes in lower plate rheology that influence the location of deeper (>30 km) seismicity and the occurrence of a double seismic zone within the subducting Pacific plate.
Primitive Auditory Segregation Based on Oscillatory Correlation

Auditory scene analysis is critical for complex auditory processing. We study auditory segregation from the neural network perspective, and develop a framework for primitive auditory scene analysis. The architecture is a laterally coupled two-dimensional network of relaxation oscillators with a global inhibitor. One dimension represents time and another one represents frequency. We show that this architecture, plus systematic delay lines, can in real time group auditory features into a stream by phase synchrony and segregate different streams by desynchronization. The network demonstrates a set of psychological phenomena regarding primitive auditory scene analysis, including dependency on frequency proximity and the rate of presentation, sequential capturing, and competition among different perceptual organizations. We offer a neurocomputational theory—shifting synchronization theory—for explaining how auditory segregation might be achieved in the brain, and the psychological phenomenon of stream segregation. Possible extensions of the model are discussed.
Interpretation of Serologic Tests for Mycoplasma gallisepticum

IgM is the first class of immunoglobulin to appear after infection with M. gallisepticum. This is the most efficient antibody class especially to detect particulate antigens (agglutination). Within...
Supporting the failing myocardium: is intra-aortic balloon pump enough? The IABP-SHOCK II trial

Cardiogenic shock (CS) in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is associated with high mortality. Ventricular support devices such as intra-aortic balloon pumps have been used in the acute management of this condition. However, a recent randomized controlled trial conducted by Thiele et al. showed that the use of an intra-aortic balloon pump in CS in AMI does not improve 30-day outcomes in these patients. In the following review, the authors discuss the salient features of the article, how the results of this trial are likely to change the management strategies in CS in the setting of AMI and the future directions.
A complex LuxR–LuxI type quorum sensing network in a roseobacterial marine sponge symbiont activates flagellar motility and inhibits biofilm formation

Bacteria isolated from marine sponges, including the Silicibacter-Ruegeria (SR) subgroup of the Roseobacter clade, produce N-acylhomoserine lactone (AHL) quorum sensing signal molecules. This study is the first detailed analysis of AHL quorum sensing in sponge-associated bacteria, specifically Ruegeria sp. KLH11, from the sponge Mycale laxissima. Two pairs of luxR and luxI homologues and one solo luxI homologue were identified and designated ssaRI, ssbRI and sscI (sponge-associated symbiont locus A, B and C, luxR or luxI homologue). SsaI produced predominantly long-chain 3-oxo-AHLs and both SsbI and SscI specified 3-OH-AHLs. Addition of exogenous AHLs to KLH11 increased the expression of ssaI but not ssaR, ssbI or ssbR, and genetic analyses revealed a complex interconnected arrangement between SsaRI and SsbRI systems. Interestingly, flagellar motility was abolished in the ssaI and ssaR mutants, with the flagellar biosynthesis genes under strict SsaRI control, and active motility only at high culture density. Conversely, ssaI and ssaR mutants formed more robust biofilms than wild-type KLH11. AHLs and the ssaI transcript were detected in M. laxissima extracts, suggesting that AHL signalling contributes to the decision between motility and sessility and that it may also facilitate acclimation to different environments that include the sponge host.
Analysis of rotifer ribosomal gene structure using the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

We have used the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to selectively amplify 18 S ribosomal genes in rotifer taxa from major planktonic clades. In each case, we obtained an amplified product of between 1.8 and 2.0 kilobase pairs. We analyzed the PCR products using 6- and 4-base cutting restriction enzymes, comparing fragment mobilities. For example, Brachionus plicatilis (BSL strain) 18S genes have no restriction sites for Hind III or Bam HI and only a single site for Eco RI (all 6-base cutters). The 4-base cutter Msp I, on the other hand, has at least 4 enzymatic sites, producing fragments between approximately 110 and 460 base pairs in length. Results of this type can be used to differentiate among species and species groups within the Rotifera and can be used as the basis for construction of a broad molecular phylogeny of the group.
Performance study of the NSW-IUT bandwidth balancing mechanism

The no slot wasting immediately using the TAR bit (NSW IUT) bandwidth balancing mechanism has been previously proposed for dual bus architectures. NSW IUT is a variation of the no slot wasting bandwidth balancing (NSW BWB) mechanism and it can also introduce bandwidth fairness into a DQDB network without wasting channel slots. In addition, it enables lightly loaded stations to use more effectively the TAR=1 bits they observe and improve considerably their delay performance. In the paper, the authors use simulation to carry out a thorough investigation of the delay performance of the NSW IUT mechanism under single and multiple priority classes of traffic as well as under the presence of erasure nodes. Throughout the study, they also compare NSW IUT with NSW BWB as well as with the bandwidth balancing of the IEEE 802.6 standard. >
Molluscan Shell Condition After Eight Years on the Sea Floor—Taphonomy in the Gulf of Mexico and Bahamas

Abstract In 1993 and 1994, the shelf and slope experimental taphonomy initiative (SSETI) deployed shells of a suite of molluscan species in a range of environments of deposition (EODs) representing a range of depths, sediment types, and environmental conditions with the goal of measuring taphonomic rates over an extended period of time. In 1999 and 2001, SSETI retrieved skeletal remains from 41 locations in the Bahamas and on the Gulf of Mexico continental shelf and upper slope that had been on the seafloor for eight years. Here, we compare taphonomic processes in two different ocean basins, across 24 environments of preservation (EOP) to evaluate the influence of species, sedimentary environment, degree of burial, and water depth on the preservational process. Taphonomic signature after eight years was almost exclusively a function of location of deployment and, frequently, taphonomically-distinctive locations of deployment were subsumed within distinctive EODs. EOD-level characteristics were insufficien...
Effects of the enlargement of polyglutamine segments on the structure and folding of ataxin-2 and ataxin-3 proteins.

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) and type 3 (SCA3) are two common autosomal-dominant inherited ataxia syndromes, both of which are related to the unstable expansion of trinucleotide CAG repeats in the coding region of the related ATXN2 and ATXN3 genes, respectively. The poly-glutamine (poly-Q) tract encoded by the CAG repeats has long been recognized as an important factor in disease pathogenesis and progress. In this study, using the I-TASSER method for 3D structure prediction, we investigated the effect of poly-Q tract enlargement on the structure and folding of ataxin-2 and ataxin-3 proteins. Our results show good agreement with the known experimental structures of the Josephin and UIM domains providing credence to the simulation results presented here, which show that the enlargement of the poly-Q region not only affects the local structure of these regions but also affects the structures of functional domains as well as the whole protein. The changes observed in the predicted models of the UIM do...
Mapping gay and lesbian neighborhoods using home advertisements: Change and continuity in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Statistical Area over three decades

Determining the spatial distribution of gay and lesbian households is relevant to understanding gay and lesbian identity and empowerment, and it has been a goal for geographers over the past half century. Our paper answers to calls for investigations of gay and lesbian geography beyond traditional enclaves. We use 9210 street addresses of advertised rental and for-sale properties posted between 1986 and 2012 in the gay and lesbian-oriented Dallas Voice to map historical changes in the spatial distribution of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Statistical Area’s gay and lesbian population. We show how gay and lesbian markets contrast with those of all Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Statistical Area renters and homeowners, and consider our data in light of Dallas Voice coverage of how the location of the gay and lesbian population has shifted. Among other things, we find that advertisements have come to feature properties further from gay bars, and in census tracts of higher income, education levels, and re...
Altered vagal and sympathetic control of heart rate in left ventricular dysfunction and heart failure

We investigated alterations in autonomic control of heart rate in conscious dogs with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in the presence and absence of heart failure (HF) due to rapid pacing. In dogs with LV dysfunction but no HF, indexes of parasympathetic control decreased significantly after only 4 days of pacing. In dogs with fully developed HF, both vagal and sympathetic contributions were small. Vagomimetic doses of atropine increased both R-R interval (419 +/- 25 to 466 +/- 34 ms, P < 0.05) and standard deviation (SD) of the R-R interval (13 +/- 2 to 34 +/- 9 ms, P < 0.05). The digitalis glycoside deslanoside (Cedilanid-D) alone prolonged R-R interval (420 +/- 33 to 492 +/- 44 ms, P < 0.01) and tended to increase SD (14 +/- 4 to 28 +/- 8 ms, P = 0.08). After Cedilanid-D, low-dose atropine resulted in no significant further change in R-R interval or SD. These data indicate that changes in vagal control of heart rate become apparent at a very early developmental stage of LV dysfunction, and we speculate that this may provide important prognostic information in patients who are at risk for developing progressive myocardial dysfunction and HF.
The ‘SPARC’ of life: Analysis of the role of osteonectin/SPARC in pancreatic cancer (Review)

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most clinically challenging cancers to manage. An estimated 48,960 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2015, of that population, 94% are projected to perish within 5 years. These dismal survival rates can be attributed, in part, to an advanced diagnosis occurring in 80% of cases. The heterogeneous and dynamic microenvironment of pancreatic cancer, and the lack of both specific risk factors and efficacious screening tools contribute to the challenge of diagnosing pancreatic cancer in its early stages. These clinical challenges have directed research into the unique characteristics that define PDAC. Recently, there has been an increased focus on the interaction of tumor cells with their microenvironment in the hope of identifying new therapeutic targets. One of the most promising avenues in this new vein of research is targeting protein communication between the cancer cells and the extracellular matrix. The secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is one such extracellular matrix protein that has shown potential as a therapeutic target due to its influence on PDAC invasion and metastasis. In this review, we discuss the complex interaction of SPARC with PDAC cells and its potential to guide treatment and eventually improve the survival of patients diagnosed with this devastating disease.
Abstract 3022: Image-Guided Endoscopic Evacuation of Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Introduction: Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is associated with a high morbidity and mortality rate despite current medical management. The benefits of open surgical evacuation for ICH remain controversial. Here we present initial results of the effectiveness of stereotactic image-guided endoscopic evacuation of ICH. Methods: Over 9-years, 41 patients with ICH (age 65+−14 years, 66% male, average admission GCS 10 & ICH Score 2, 46% with concurrent intraventricular hemorrhage) were treated. The current technique, which evolved from using direct endoscopic visualization, uses frameless stereotactic guidance alone to aspirate at two specified locations within the hematoma. An endoscope sheath is introduced through a bur hole into the hematoma along its long axis. Suction is applied to the sheath, without endoscopic viewing, at two locations, 1/3 and 2/3 of the way through the long-axis of the ICH. Endoscopic visualization of the cavity is then performed to ensure hemostasis. ICH volume was calculated using pre- and postoperative CT measurements ((length x width x height)/2). Results: Pre- and postoperative ICH volumes averaged 56.5 and 15.9cc, respectively, a reduction of 67.6+−41.9% (p Conclusions: Image-guided endoscopic evacuation is a minimally-invasive approach to reduce ICH volume. Greater than 50% reduction in hematoma volume was achieved in the large majority of patients. Further study is required to evaluate the impact of endoscopic ICH evacuation on clinical outcomes compared to other treatments.
Economic Performance and Transient European Cabinet Administrations: Implications For Consociational Parliamentary Democracies

While many scholars note the political costs of poor national economic performance for incubent politicians in European democracies, few studies compare the relative success of different types of parliamentary democracies in securing enduring cabinet administrations. The present study compares the relationship between the longevity of cabinet administrations and the nature of economic performance (e.g., inflation and unemployment) in two groups of European democracies: consociational parliamentary democracies (Austria, Belgium and the Netherlands) and non-consociational parliamentary-or modified parliamentary-democracies (Finland, France, Great Britain, Norway and West Germany). The findings are based on longitudinal (1958-1982) cross-national data which have been segregated for analysis into consociational (N = 44) and non-consociational (N = 60) samples. The country samples are restricted by the availability of comparable monthly economic data, yet the study confirms that consociational democracies are more susceptible to the discontinuity of policy and the decline of executive authority as a result of rising prices and employment than are non-consociational democracies. Furthermore, as expected, the effect of sustained unemployment and relative price increases across successive cabinet administrations is found to be particularly significant for consociational democracy in this sample.
HLA typing of cultured amniotic fluid cells.

HLA typing was performed on 18 cultures of human amniotic fluid cells using cytotoxicity and absorption technics. Confirmation of antigen assignments was obtained in nine of ten instances, where HLA typing also was performed on cord blood. Three major problems were encountered in performing these studies: (1) complement cytotoxicity, (2) false-positive reactions, and (3) false-negative reactions. False-positive and false- negative reactions occurred more frequently with sera defining HLA-B locus specificities than with sera defining HLA-A locus specificities. Absorption studies were helpful in making antigen assignments when false reactions occurred. Preliminary studies suggest that the frequency of false-positive reactions can be decreased by absorbing HLA typing sera with antigen-negative amniotic fluid cultured cells, buffy coat, or platelets. Accurate antigen assignment is difficult when parental HLA types are unavailable.