cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Photon dose perturbations due to small inhomogeneities.

An apparatus capable of measuring small fractional changes in ionization current has been used to study the effect of small inhomogeneities on photon dose in water. Small ring-shaped inhomogeneities were introduced into a water phantom and measurements have been made for 4-, 6-, and 18-MV x-rays. The results show (1) beyond the range of secondary electrons, the dose perturbation is basically a photon transport phenomenon which becomes less important as the beam energy increases; (2) within the range of secondary electrons, dose perturbation also involves electron transport, which has a strong dependence on atomic number and could result in a substantially large effect on dose deposition.
When the v-Operation Distributes over Intersections

Let D be an integral domain. We investigate when (∩ Aα) −1 = ∑ Aα −1 or (∩ Aα) −1 =(∑ Aα −1)v (equivalently, (∩ A α) v = ∩(A α) v ) for certain families {A α} of nonzero fractional ideals of D.
Discrete simulation methods in combustion kinetics

Abstract A hybrid method, intermediate between diffential equation solution and Monte Carlo, is described for calculating the consequences of an assumed mechanism and set of rate constants. It is compared with standard methods as to simplicity, efficiency, stability, and other features. Situations in which it can replace or supplement other procedures are discussed. An example calculation is presented. It consists of a routine simulation of C 3 H 8 oxidation with a 37-reaction mechanism and variable temperature, along with a comparison with results obtained with a collapsed mechanism, the latter simplication being one that is particularly facile when discrete stimulation is used.
Effect of Microphone Type and Placement on Voice Perturbation Measurements

This study was conducted to explore the effects of microphone type (dynamic vs. condenser) and pattern (omnidirectional vs. cardioid) on the extraction of voice perturbation measures for sustained ...
Use of androgenesis for estimating maternal and mitochondrial genome effects on development and oxygen consumption in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss.

Abstract Chromosome set manipulation was used to produce rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, with identical nuclear backgrounds, but different maternal backgrounds to determine mitochondrial effects on development rate and oxygen consumption. Significant differences in development rate and oxygen consumption were observed between groups from different females. Development rates ranged from a mean of 317.97 degree days (°d) to 335.25 °d in progeny from different females. Mean oxygen consumption rates ranged from 3.31 μmol O2 g− 1 wet mass h− 1 to 9.66 μmol O2 g− 1 wet mass h− 1. Oxygen consumption and development rate analysis revealed the two slowest developing groups had the highest oxygen consumption rates. Development rate differences between second generation clonal females indicate that mitochondrial genomes play a significant role on early development and are comparable to development rate differences between clonal lines of rainbow trout. These results indicate that selection for mitochondrial genomes could increase growth rates and possibly food conversion ratios in aquaculture species.
Graphical solution of certain nonlinear differential-difference equations

Abstract A graphical method is described for obtaining solutions for differential-difference equations of the general form x (t)=f[x(t), x(t−τ)] where τ is a constant, and f[x(t), x(t−τ)] is a single-valued function which may be nonlinear. The method employs a construction on the x (t)−x(t) plane and leads to a solution similar to the phase-plane solution commonly used in studying pure differential equations of the second order. Besides giving the phase-plane curve, the construction also locates points known in time along this curve. The method is applied to two examples, both of which have been studied previously by approximate analytical methods and by the use of an analog computer. Solutions found by the construction are in excellent agreement with those found previously. The construction gives solutions for combinations of numerical values which cannot be handled by other methods.
Solid and hollow inorganic replicas of biological photonic crystals

Photonic crystals in nature give rise to structural colors in a wide variety of organisms. We combine intriguing biological photonic structures, taken from weevils, with sol–gel templating to create a pallet of robust silica and titania replicas. Structural and optical characterization results are used to calculate band diagrams and density of optical states distributions, revealing that these replicas possess multiple overlapping photonic stop gaps with strongly modified density of optical states.
Factorization and quadratic cost problems in Hilbert spaces

Abstract A factorization perspective to problems of optimal causal estimation and optimal causal control of linear stochastic systems defined on an infinite dimensional Hilbert space is presented. A separation principle is derived when the system input/output map is generated by an abstract evolution operator. The factorization formalism allows for an essentially algebraic approach to these problems.
Colorectal cancer after renal transplantation.

Abstract Background The risk of developing malignancy is increased after transplantation, which is believed to be related to the use of immunosuppressive agents. Although the risk of hematological malignancies and skin cancer are clearly increased in this setting, the association with colorectal cancer is controversial. Method Retrospective analysis of patients with renal transplantation who developed colorectal cancer (1985–2001). Results Over 17 years (1985–2002), 31 (5.5%) patients out of 556 renal transplant recipients developed cancer; 23 skin cancer and 8 non skin cancer. Three patients (0.5%) developed colorectal cancer. All were men of mean age 65 years. The mean elapsed time from transplantation to symptoms was 11 years. They were all treated with azathioprine, antilymphocyte globulin, prednisone, and additional immunosuppressive agents, such as mycophenolate mofetil, or cyclosporine. The patients with colorectal cancer underwent resection with primary anastomosis. They all experienced uneventful postoperative courses; no anastomotic leak occurred. Two patients were found to have liver metastases at the time of operation. Conclusion Our cases and a literature review suggest that there is no increase risk of colorectal cancer among transplant recipients compares to the general population. Whether colorectal cancer has a more aggressive course in transplant patients needs further evaluation.
Perception of synthetic speech produced automatically by rule: Intelligibility of eight text-to-speech systems

We present the results of studies designed to measure the segmental intelligibility of eight text-to-speech systems and a natural speech control, using the Modified Rhyme Test (MRT). Results indicated that the voices tested could be grouped into four categories: natural speech, high-quality synthetic speech, moderate-quality synthetic speech, and low-quality synthetic speech. The overall performance of the best synthesis system, DECtalk-Paul, was equivalent to natural speech only in terms of performance on initial consonants. The findings are discussed in terms of recent work investigating the perception of synthetic speech under more severe conditions. Suggestions for future research on improving the quality of synthetic speech are also considered.
Individual Differences in Language Ability Are Related to Variation in Word Recognition, Not Speech Perception: Evidence from Eye Movements.

Purpose The authors examined speech perception deficits associated with individual differences in language ability, contrasting auditory, phonological, or lexical accounts by asking whether lexical competition is differentially sensitive to fine-grained acoustic variation. Method Adolescents with a range of language abilities (N = 74, including 35 impaired) participated in an experiment based on McMurray, Tanenhaus, and Aslin (2002). Participants heard tokens from six 9-step voice onset time (VOT) continua spanning 2 words (beach/peach, beak/peak, etc.) while viewing a screen containing pictures of those words and 2 unrelated objects. Participants selected the referent while eye movements to each picture were monitored as a measure of lexical activation. Fixations were examined as a function of both VOT and language ability. Results Eye movements were sensitive to within-category VOT differences: As VOT approached the boundary, listeners made more fixations to the competing word. This did not interact wit...
Representative volume element for non-uniform micro-structure

Abstract A representative volume element (RVE) of micro-structure is an important input for computational-mechanics-based simulations of micro-mechanical response of heterogeneous materials such as composites. In this contribution, a methodology has been developed to arrive at a sufficiently small micro-structural window that can be regarded as a RVE of a non-uniform micro-structure of a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) containing a range of fiber sizes, and fiber-rich and -poor regions at the length scale of about 100 μm. The RVE contains about 250 fibers of 14 μm diameter average size. The absolute size of the RVE is 0.1 mm 2 . The methodology involves a unique combination of quantitative characterization of geometry and spatial arrangement of micro-structural features using stereological and image analysis techniques, development of computer simulated micro-structure model that is statistically similar to the real micro-structure, finite element (FE)-based simulations of micro-mechanical response on computer-simulated micro-structural widows of different sizes containing 60–2000 fibers, and FE-based simulations on large-area high-resolution digital image of the composite micro-structure containing about 2000 fibers. The RVE has the micro-structure that is statistically similar to that of the CMC having fiber-rich and -poor regions, its Young's modulus is very close to that of the composite, and has local stress distribution that is comparable to that in the real composite under similar loading conditions. Therefore, such an RVE is useful for realistic simulations of damage initiation.
HR-MAS NMR Tissue Metabolomic Signatures Cross-Validated by Mass Spectrometry Distinguish Bladder Cancer from Benign Disease

Effective diagnosis and surveillance of bladder cancer (BCa) is currently challenged by detection methods that are of poor sensitivity, particularly for low-grade tumors, resulting in unnecessary invasive procedures and economic burden. We performed HR-MAS NMR-based global metabolomic profiling and applied unsupervised principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering performed on NMR data set of bladder-derived tissues and identified metabolic signatures that differentiate BCa from benign disease. A partial least-squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) model (leave-one-out cross-validation) was used as a diagnostic model to distinguish benign and BCa tissues. Receiver operating characteristic curve generated either from PC1 loadings of PCA or from predicted Y-values resulted in an area under curve of 0.97. Relative quantification of more than 15 tissue metabolites derived from HR-MAS NMR showed significant differences (P < 0.001) between benign and BCa samples. Noticeably, striking metabolic signatures were observed even for early stage BCa tissues (Ta-T1), demonstrating the sensitivity in detecting BCa. With the goal of cross-validating metabolic signatures derived from HR-MAS NMR, we utilized the same tissue samples to analyze 8 metabolites through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)-targeted analysis, which undoubtedly complements HR-MAS NMR-derived metabolomic information. Cross-validation through GC-MS clearly demonstrates the utility of a straightforward, nondestructive, and rapid HR-MAS NMR technique for clinical diagnosis of BCa with even greater sensitivity. In addition to its utility as a diagnostic tool, these studies will lead to a better understanding of aberrant metabolic pathways in cancer as well as the design and implementation of personalized cancer therapy through metabolic modulation.
Utilization of satellite winds for climate and global change studies

Abstract The importance of wind measurements for climate and global change research is reviewed, particularly with respect to the data anticipated from the Laser Atmospheric Wind Sounder (LAWS).
Metabolic costs of mixed‐function oxidase induction in Heliothis zea

Abstract The maximum metabolic cost of microsomal mixed-function oxidase (MFO) induction was measured in terms of food utilization parameters. MFOs in larvae of Heliothis zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) were induced by feeding on diet containing indole 3-carbinol (I3C). Growth, food utilization parameters, cytochrome P-450 content and O-demethylase activity of these larvae were compared to larvae reared on the same diet without I3C. Three-fold to nine-fold greater O-demethylase activity and seven-fold more cytochrome P-450 were measured in larvae fed I3C, but no differences were detected in the food utilization and growth parameters. These results do not support the view that costs of MFO induction may be responsible for differences in food utilization parameters. Resume Coǔts metaboliques de l'induction de la fonction oxydase mixte chez Heliothis zea Le coǔt metabolique maximum de l'induction de la fonction oxydase mixte microsomale (MFO) a ete evalue au moyen de parametres caracterisant l'utilisation de l'aliment. Les MFO des chenilles d'H. zea ont ete induites en les elevant avec un regime contenant 0,2 % d'indole 3-carbinol (I3C) en poids/poids humide. L'induction a ete mise en evidence en mesurant l'O-demethylation du p-nitroanisole par les microsomes de l'intestin des larves des 4eme et 5eme stades, et la teneur en cytochrome P-450 (mesuree par les differences des spectres de l'oxyde de carbone) des microsomes de l'intestin des larves du 5eme stade elevees avec I3C et temoins. La digestibilite approchee, l'efficacite de la conversion de l'aliment digere et l'efficacite de la conversion de l'aliment ingere (evaluee d'apres la duree de developpement larvaire de la neonate a la prenymphe), le temps pour atteindre le stade prenymphe, le poids final, on ete compares chez les temoins et chez les chenilles elevees sur I3C. Les chenilles elevees sur I3C ont presente une activite O-demethylase 3 a 2 fois superieure et 7 fois plus de cytochrome P-450, mais aucune difference n'a pu ětre decelee pour les parametres d'utilisation alimentaire et de croissance. Ces resultats ne confirment pas l'hypothese suivant laquelle le coǔt de l'induction de MFO pourraǐt ětre responsable de differences dans les parametres de l'utilisation de l'aliment.
An inexpensive operant chamber interface for the VIC 20 microcomputer

An inexpensive interface to connect the VIC 20 (or other Commodore microcomputer) to a single operant chamber is described. This interface is equipped to accept as inputs three separate switch closures and produces five outputs, including one to elevate a food hopper. The uses of this interface for controlling experimental events and acquiring data in real time are discussed.
Integrated acousto-optic and magneto-optic Bragg cell modulators and their applications

Significant advances have been made in both integrated acousto-optic (AO) and magneto-optic (MO) Bragg cell modulators in recent years. Presented are similarities in the basic interaction geometry and the characteristics associated with AO and MO Bragg diffraction and a comparison of the resulting AO and MO Bragg cell modulators in terms of the substrate material, center carrier frequency, bandwidth and their electronic tunability, modulation and switching speed, diffraction effi- ciency, fabrication and integration technologies, and applications. While the technology toward realization of monolithic integrated AO device modules in indium phosphide (InP)-based waveguide substrate is con- siderably ahead of its MO counterpart in yittrium iron garnet/gadolinium garnet (YIG/GGG)-based waveguide substrate, the basic MO Bragg cell modulators have demonstrated a number of unique and important ad- vantages over their AO counterparts. Further research and development toward ultimate realization of integrated AO and MO device modules is also discussed. © 1999 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers. (S0091-3286(99)00907-1) Subject terms: integrated acousto-optic Bragg cell modulators; integrated magneto-optic Bragg cell modulators; acousto-optic Bragg diffraction; magneto- optic Bragg diffraction; integrated optics; surface acoustic waves; magnetostatic waves; light beam scanning and switching; rf signal processing.
SU-E-T-131: Influence of Scanning Speed on Measurements of Field Flatness and Symmetry of Photon Beams.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate influence of different scanning speeds on measurements of photon beam flatness and symmetry. Methods: Commissioning and quality assurance of linear accelerators require extensive beam measurements. To increase efficacy, we evaluated flatness, symmetry and penumbra of 6MV photon beam using the Varian‐TrueBeamTM system. Scanning speeds were 0.3, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, and 2.5cm/s. Measurements were performed in water phantom (BluePhantom2, IBA‐Dosimetry) at depths of maximum dose, 5,10, and 20cm, for 10×10 cm field size. For each scanning speed and depth, measurements were repeated five times to give results sufficient statistical significance, in both crossline and inline directions. Beam flatness was calculated using variation over mean (80%), whereas symmetry was calculated using point difference quotient (IEC) algorithm. After filed scanning chamber (Wellhofer) was fully stopped, system was paused for stabilization time of 15s to avoid buildup of ripples. Results: It was noticed for all measurements that minimum and maximum flatness and symmetry were recorded when scanning speeds were 0.3cm and 2.5cm, respectively. For depth of maximum dose, maximum flatness and symmetry were 0.82% and 100.58% (crossplane), and 0.94% and 100.96% (inplane). The average was 0.76% and 100.38% (SD 0.04 and 0.12) for crossplane; 0.89% and 100.87% (SD 0.04 and 0.06) for inplane measurements. As the scanning depth increased, flatness and symmetry increased, but SD for all measurements was within the same range (0.04–0.07 and 0.04–0.12). The maximum absolute difference for flatness and symmetry for maximum and minimum speed were 0.16% and 0.34%.However, for scanning speeds from 0.5–1cm/s, results were almost identical with maximum SD 0.03 for both flatness and symmetry. Use of different scanning speeds did not influence penumbra; SD was 0 for all measurements. Conclusions: This study reveals small influence of scanning speed within predefined range. Consequently, difference in measurements does not have clinical significance.
Opportunities to reduce the storage capacity in large isolated electric grids

Many developed countries are moving towards a low carbon economy and are therefore demanding higher levels of renewable energy sources. Renewable energy sources are not constant and therefore the electrical system (grid) will require a certain level of energy storage to achieve a higher level of renewable energy penetration. Many of the storage systems will be based on hydro technology, which means would require a significant environmental and social effort. This paper investigates the different possibilities to reduce the required storage capacity as function of the different renewable technologies (solar, wind, biomass, etc.). As the basis for this study, the Navarra region in the north of Spain was selected. This region already possesses a high penetration of wind, solar and hydro production making it an ideal region of study. In addition, this paper shows that it would be feasible to significantly reduce the level of non-renewable generation, especially the most polluting technologies, with the inclusion of a small level of increased energy storage.
Role of Surface Molecular Architecture and Energetics of Hydrogen Bonding Sites in Adsorption of Polymers and Surfactants.

Abstract Hydrogen bonding is generally thought to be an ubiquitous adsorption mechanism, which often foils selective adsorption schemes. Through investigation of hydrogen bonding energy and its dependence on surface molecular architecture, it may be possible to develop new methodologies to control the adsorption of surfactants and polymeric flocculants, depressants, and dispersants used in particulate processing industries. A model system using Stober silica spheres and polyethylene oxide, a polymer known for its ability to form hydrogen bonds, was examined. The effect of two different surface treatments of the silica particles, calcination and rehydroxylation, upon the adsorption of two polymer molecular weights was studied. The adsorption behavior was then linked to the respective surface structures via characterization of the surfaces using FTIR, NMR, and Raman techniques. In this paper role of hydrogen bonding sites and surface architecture on adsorption is discussed.
Biochemical Markers of Bone Remodeling

Bone formation and resorption (or bone turnover) are reflected by levels in blood and urine of various enzymes from bone cells, byproducts of bone matrix synthesis, or breakdown products of bone. These biochemical markers provide information about projected rates of bone loss and can be useful in assessing the effectiveness of antiresorptive therapy for osteoporosis. Biochemical markers provide adjunctive information to bone density measurements, and may be independent predictors of fracture risk. For clinical use, combining markers of resorption and formation should give better information than a single marker.
Quantitative redox imaging biomarkers for studying tissue metabolic state and its heterogeneity

NAD+/NADH redox state has been implicated in many diseases such as cancer and diabetes as well as in the regulation of embryonic development and aging. To fluorimetrically assess the mitochondrial redox state, Dr. Chance and co-workers measured the fluorescence of NADH and oxidized flavoproteins (Fp) including flavin–adenine–dinucleotide (FAD) and demonstrated their ratio (i.e. the redox ratio) is a sensitive indicator of the mitochondrial redox states. The Chance redox scanner was built to simultaneously measure NADH and Fp in tissue at submillimeter scale in 3D using the freeze-trap protocol. This paper summarizes our recent research experience, development and new applications of the redox scanning technique in collaboration with Dr. Chance beginning in 2005. Dr. Chance initiated or actively involved in many of the projects during the last several years of his life. We advanced the redox scanning technique by measuring the nominal concentrations (in reference to the frozen solution standards) of the en...
Extrafamilial information sources in the study of childhood depression.

ABSTRACT Assessment of childhood depression has primarily involved ratings and interviews of the child and the parents. Although these measures have proved useful, other extrafamilial sources of information (e.g., teachers, peers, outside observers, testing data) may offer crucial information. This paper describes studies that have used extrafamilial sources of information to study correlates of depressed mood and affective disorders in children. Results from these studies are summarized, and directions for future, interdisciplinary assessment, and research are discussed.
Internal gravity waves in atmospheres with realistic dissipation and temperature part III. Daily variations in the thermosphere

Abstract Using the procedures developed in Parts I and II we examine the daily variation of the thermosphere. The daily variation is found to consist in a strong semidiurnal oscillation (amplitude of temperature oscillation (100 °K-200 °K) excited primarily by ozone heating in the mesosphere, and a diurnal oscillation of similar magnitude excited primarily by EUV heating within the thermosphere. The prediction of a strong semidiurnal oscillation causes our results to differ in form and magnitude from present observationally based models. The nature of the inadequacies in our calculations and in data analyses is discussed in detail.
The use of μ opioid receptors in the mouse vas deferens for the study of opiate tolerance

We have previously shown that mu opioid receptors in the guinea pig ileum preparations are poor models for those in the central nervous system to study the phenomenon of opiate tolerance. Since we have shown subsequently that the mu opioid receptors in the mouse vas deferens preparation differ from those in the guinea pig ileum, we investigated the possibility that the mu receptors in the mouse vas deferens might be better models for the study of opiate tolerance. The degree of tolerance produced by incubation of mouse vas deferens preparations with morphine in vitro was relatively low. However, when mice were either implanted with morphine pellets (75 mg free base) or injected s.c. with 100, 50 or 25 mg/kg of morphine sulfate, a large magnitude of tolerance in their vasa deferentia was consistently observed. When pA2 analyses were performed in the tolerant vasa deferentia (25 mg/kg) using naloxone, the pA2 value was 7.55 +/- 0.18 compared to the control value of 8.45 +/- 0.24. Since the tissue became significantly more refractory to the effects of the opiate antagonist with the development of tolerance, which is the opposite of what happens with central mu receptors, we conclude that the mu opioid receptors in the mouse vas deferens are not adequate models for those in the central nervous system to study the phenomenon of tolerance.
Multiple forms of monoamine oxidase in the developing brain.

MUCH attention has recently been centred on the biosynthesis and metabolism of the catecholamines and indole-alkylamines. Because the enzyme monoamine oxidase (monoamine : O2 oxidoreductase (deaminating), EC 1.4.3.4) is involved in the metabolism of both these classes of biogenic amines, and because of our interest in development1,2 we were prompted to investigate the nature of this enzyme and especially its activity in developing brain and other tissues of the maturing organism.
Possible identification of the outgoing lepton in neutral current reactions

It may be possible to determine whether the outgoing lepton in muonless neutrino and antineutrino reactions is identical with the incident particle, even if the outgoing lepton is massless and has the same helicity. The possibility depends upon the presence of anti-hermitean currents, which can cause characteristic differences between neutrino and antineutrino reactions.
Working Together: Academic Librarians and Faculty Collaborating to Improve Students' Information Literacy Skills: A Literature Review 2000–2009

The purpose of this article is to provide a literature review of articles that include examples of academic librarians collaborating with faculty for the integration of information literacy instruction into faculty members' courses. This literature review is international in scope and reviews articles published from 2000 through 2009. Also discussed are the transition from bibliographic instruction to information literacy, information literacy requirements, and relevant Association of College & Research Libraries documents.
The holy grail evades the search

This paper presents the views and reactions of one traditional librarian to the search for literature control by machine. Everyone in the cultural community with any perceptiveness and vision must be concerned about, possibly even a bit awed by, how much has been written, is being written, and by the rapidity of the quantitative increase. It is natural that man, in his efforts to keep the massive record of his articulate-ness organized and findable, should look hopefully to the machine which he has bent to his will and needs in so many directions.
Diagonal forms and zero-sum (mod 2) bipartite Ramsey numbers

Let G be a subgraph of a complete bipartite graph K"n","n. Let N(G) be a 0-1 incidence matrix with edges of K"n","n against images of G under the automorphism group of K"n","n. A diagonal form of N(G) is found for every G, and the question as to whether the row space of N(G) over Z"p contains the vector of all 1's is settled. This implies a new proof of Caro and Yuster's results on zero-sum bipartite Ramsey numbers, and provides necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a signed bipartite graph design.
Polymorphisms in Cytoplasmic Serine Hydroxymethyltransferase and Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Affect the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Men

Genetic variation in folate-regulating enzymes contributes to the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The cytoplasmic serine hydroxymethyltransferase (cSHMT) enzyme is proposed to regulate a key metabolic intersection in folate metabolism. We hypothesized that a variant in cSHMT (cSHMT 1420C-->T) affects CVD risk, and that the effect depends on a linked step in the metabolic pathway catalyzed by methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). A nested case-control study of incident CVD was conducted within the all-male Normative Aging Study cohort. Of the incident CVD cases, 507 had DNA samples; 2 controls/case were selected by risk set sampling (matched on age and birth year). A significant gene-gene interaction (P-values 0.0013, 0.0064) was found between MTHFR and cSHMT, and there was little or no change in the coefficients in covariate-adjusted models. The effect of MTHFR 677C-->T genotype on CVD risk varied by cSHMT 1420C-->T genotype. Among men with cSHMT 1420C-->T TT genotype, the odds ratios (OR) for CVD risk for MTHFR 677C-->T CT and TT genotypes compared with the MTHFR 677C-->T CC genotype were 3.6 (95% CI, 1.7-7.8) and 10.6 (95% CI, 2.5-46.0), respectively. Among men with the cSHMT 1420C-->T CC/CT genotype, the corresponding ORs were 1.0 (95% CI, 0.8-1.2) and 1.3 (95% CI, 0.9-1.8). Plasma total homocysteine concentrations were highest in the subgroup of men with both polymorphisms, MTHFR 677C-->T TT and cSHMT 1420C-->T TT, consistent with a higher risk of CVD in this subgroup. A more complete understanding of the molecular mechanism awaits identification of the functional effect of the polymorphism.
Sequential Quadratic Programming Methods

In his 1963 PhD thesis, Wilson proposed the first sequential quadratic programming (SQP) method for the solution of constrained nonlinear optimization problems. In the intervening 48 years, SQP methods have evolved into a powerful and effective class of methods for a wide range of optimization problems. We review some of the most prominent developments in SQP methods since 1963 and discuss the relationship of SQP methods to other popular methods, including augmented Lagrangian methods and interior methods. Given the scope and utility of nonlinear optimization, it is not surprising that SQP methods are still a subject of active research. Recent developments in methods for mixed integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) and the minimization of functions subject to differential equation constraints has led to a heightened interest in methods that may be “warm started” from a good approximate solution. We discuss the role of SQP methods in these contexts
ExOpaque: A Framework to Explain Opaque Machine Learning Models Using Inductive Logic Programming

In this paper we developed an Inductive Logic Programming (ILP) based framework ExOpaque that is able to extract a set of Horn clauses from an arbitrary opaque machine learning model, to describe the behavior of the opaque model with high fidelity while maintaining the simplicity of the Horn clauses for human interpretations.
Understanding asthma-specific quality of life: moving beyond asthma symptoms and severity

This study identifies the unique contributions of asthma severity, symptoms, control and generic measures of quality of life (QoL) to asthma-specific QoL, as measured by the 12-item RAND Negative Impact of Asthma on Quality of Life scale (RAND-IAQL-12).Using a sample of 2032 adults with asthma, we conducted multiple regression analyses that sequentially examined hypothesised predictors of asthma-specific QoL. The change in variance accounted for and total unique variance accounted for is calculated as hypothesised predictors are added in each step.Our results indicate that asthma severity and asthma symptoms are strong predictors of asthma-specific QoL only when not controlling for aspects of asthma control. In regression models that include other aspects of asthma control, the contributions of both asthma symptoms and severity were substantially reduced, with asthma control and aspects of QoL related to social roles and activities emerging as the strongest predictors of asthma-specific QoL.These findings suggest that researchers measuring the impact of asthma on QoL should also consider the importance of asthma control as measured by the RAND Asthma Control Measure (RAND-ACM) and generic QoL scales that measure aspects of daily life that are uniquely affected by asthma.
The endothelial protein C receptor.

Purpose of review The endothelial cell protein C receptor is known to be critical for the regulation of natural anticoagulant functions and some anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic functions of activated protein C. This leads to the prediction that abnormalities in endothelial cell protein C receptor might be associated with altered thrombotic tendencies and hyperinflammatory responses to infectious agents. This review covers the most recent evidence that relatively common genetic and acquired abnormalities of endothelial cell protein C receptor do contribute to pathophysiological disease processes. Recent findings In mice, increases and decreases in endothelial cell protein C receptor expression are shown to modulate the coagulation and inflammatory proceses. Genetic polymorphisms are associated with alterations in protein expression and familial and acquired thrombotic disease. Summary The emerging clinical evidence of endothelial cell protein C receptor involvement in thrombotic disease suggests that the understanding of endothelial cell protein C receptor genotype and the knowledge of auto-antibodies may aid in diagnosing the risk of thrombotic events in patients.
A comparison of the morphologic effects of Serpulina hyodysenteriae or its beta-hemolysin on the murine cecal mucosa.

Studies were carried out to compare the early morphologic changes in the cecal mucosa of mice either infected with Serpulina hyodysenteriae or exposed to the β-hemolysin of S. hyodysenteriae. Sixty-five 12–24-week-old C3H/HeOuJ mice were infected with S. hyodysenteriae by gastric intubation. Two mice were necropsied every hour for 30 hours following infection. S. hyodysenteriae was isolated from the cecal contents of each mouse at all time points. Macroscopic lesions were first apparent at 14 hours postinfection (PI), and light microscopic lesions were first apparent at 10 hours PI, earlier than has been previously reported. Ultrastructural changes, first evident at 6 hours PI, included disarray and loss of microvilli and terminal web, with dilatation of intercellular spaces. Luminal bacteria were translocated through epithelial cells to the lamina propria, where capillaries exhibited changes indicative of increased permeability. In another experiment, solutions containing between 2,500 and 25,000 hemolyt...
Electrodeposition of Adherent Polyaniline-Polypyrrole Composite Coatings on Low Carbon Steel

Uniform and adherent polyaniline-polypyrrole composite coatings were electrochemically polymerized on low carbon steel under aqueous conditions. The structure of the coatings was analyzed as a function of electrochemical deposition parameters (molar feed ratio of monomers and reaction time). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to study the chemical composition of the coatings and also the amount of dopants (oxalate ions) incorporated into the polymeric coatings. The morphology of the coatings was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The adhesion strength of the coatings was measured using simple lap joint tests. The composite coatings formed by an equimolar feed of the monomers were much more adherent than the homopolymeric coatings.
Blended analysis for performance understanding of framework-based applications

This paper defines a new analysis paradigm, blended program analysis, that enables practical, effective analysis of large framework-based Java applications for performance understanding. Blended analysis combines a dynamic representation of the program calling structure, with a static analysis applied to a region of that calling structure with observed performance problems. A blended escape analysis is presented which enables approximation of object effective lifetimes, to facilitate explanation of the usage of newly created objects in a program region. Performance bottlenecks stemming from overuse of temporary structures are common in framework-based applications. Metrics are introduced to expose how, in aggregate, these applications make use of new objects. Results of empirical experiments with the Trade benchmark are presented. A case study demonstrates how results from a blended escape analysis can help locate, in a region which calls 223 distinct methods, the single call path responsible for a performance problem involving objects created at 9 distinct sites and as far as 6 call levels away.
Using SIOP in Science: Response to Settlage, Madsen, and Rustad

It isn’t unusual for an instructional model or approach to be misinterpreted in practice. Madeline Hunter bemoaned the way her Mastery Teaching approach was reduced to a seven step lesson plan. Although the Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) Model of sheltered instruction for English language learners (ELLs) was developed fairly recently (Echevarria, Vogt & Short, 2000), it has already been reported implemented in unintended ways. In this space I would like to respond to the description by Settlage, Kerry, and Rustad (this issue) of their experience using the SIOP model with preservice students to teach elementary science content to ELLs. First, let me set the context for my response. The SIOP Model is an instructional framework that incorporates best practices for teaching academic English and provides teachers with a coherent, usable approach for improving the achievement of their students. The model comprises 30 features grouped into eight components essential for making content comprehensible for English language learners—Preparation, Building Background, Comprehensible Input, Strategies, Interaction, Practice/ Application, Lesson Delivery, and Review/Assessment. Arguably, these are the same kinds of instructional components that are present in effective science lessons for all students, and many were evident in the
Analysis of factor interactions with RNA polymerase II elongation complexes using a new electrophoretic mobility shift assay

The elongation phase of transcription by RNA polymerase II (RNAP II) is controlled by a carefully orchestrated series of interactions with both negative and positive factors. However, due to the limitations of current methods and techniques, not much is known about whether and how these proteins physically associate with the engaged polymerases. To gain insight into the detailed mechanisms involved, we established an experimental system for analyzing direct factor interactions to RNAP II elongation complexes on native gels, namely elongation complex electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EC-EMSA). This new assay effectively allowed detection of interactions of TFIIF, TTF2, TFIIS, DSIF and P-TEFb with elongation complexes generated from a natural promoter using an immobilized template. As an application of this assay system, we characterized the association of transcription elongation factor DSIF with RNAP II elongation complexes and discovered that the nascent transcript facilitated recruitment of DSIF. Examples of how the system can be manipulated to address different questions are provided. EC-EMSA should be useful for further investigation of factor interactions with RNAP II elongation complexes.
Effects of early progressive eccentric exercise on muscle structure after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Background: Thigh muscle atrophy is a major impairment that occurs early after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament and persists for several years. Eccentric resistance training has the potential to induce considerable gains in muscle size and strength that could prove beneficial during
Identification of mesoderm development (mesd) candidate genes by comparative mapping and genome sequence analysis.

The proximal albino deletions identify several functional regions on mouse Chromosome 7 critical for differentiation of mesoderm (mesd), development of the hypothalamus neuroendocrine lineage (nelg), and function of the liver (hsdr1). Using comparative mapping and genomic sequence analysis, we have identified four novel genes and Il16 in the mesd deletion interval. Two of the novel genes, mesdc1 and mesdc2, are located within the mesd critical region defined by BAC transgenic rescue. We have investigated the fetal role of genes located outside the mesd critical region using BAC transgenic complementation of the mesd early embryonic lethality. Using human radiation hybrid mapping and BAC contig construction, we have identified a conserved region of human chromosome 15 homologous to the mesd, nelg, and hsdr1 functional regions. Three human diseases cosegregate with microsatellite markers used in construction of the human BAC/YAC physical map, including autosomal dominant nocturnal frontal lobe epilepsy (ENFL2; also known as ADNFLE), a syndrome of mental retardation, spasticity, and tapetoretinal degeneration (MRST); and a pyogenic arthritis, pyoderma gangrenosum, and acne syndrome (PAPA).
Wavelets over curvilinear grids

We develop multiresolution models for analyzing and visualizing two-dimensional flows over curvilinear grids. Our models are based upon nested spaces of piecewise defined functions defined over nested curvilinear grid domains. The nested domains are selected so as to maintain the original geometry of the inner boundary. We first give the refinement and decomposition equations for Haar wavelets over these domains. Next, using lifting techniques we develop and show examples of piecewise linear wavelets over curvilinear grids.
Circadian profiling of the transcriptome in NIH/3T3 fibroblasts: comparison with rhythmic gene expression in SCN2.2 cells and the rat SCN

To screen for output signals that may distinguish the pacemaker in the mammalian suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) from peripheral-type oscillators in which the canonical clockworks are similarly regul...
Phenotypic Expression and Differentiation: in vitro Chondrogenesis

Any in vitro analysis of differentiation should take into account three important factors. One is the artifactual nature of the in vitro conditions. The very nature of the culture methodology creates an artifact. This is not meant to imply a deprecation of the study of a created artifact, for in many instances much useful information has been obtained from such studies. The investigator must be aware as to how much transference may be given to in vivo phenomena from in vitro studies. Another factor to take cognizance of is that negative aspects of differentiation in vitro (i. e. “dedifferen-tiation”, or the failure of differentiation) may not be a manifestation of a basic mechanism of differentiation. Observations of this sort may usually be ascribed to the fault of the experimenter and the conditions given the tissue in its foreign environment. A third point to be considered is that the phenotypic expression of differentiation may not be obvious to the observer and may require refined techniques of assay. A cell or tissue that appears “undifferentiated” may actually possess a differentiated metabolic pattern.
Pasting and Encoding: Note-Taking in Online Courses

Studies have shown that both the act of note-taking and the use of notes for review can promote learning. Many note-taking applications have been developed for computer-based learning content. In general, they include advanced annotation functionality, and are geared toward supporting collaboration and discussion. Though these devices have been shown to change note-taking behavior, their effect on learning has not been evaluated. The goal of our research is to evaluate the effect of specific features of note-taking applications on behavior and learning, in order to develop guidelines for advanced note-taking applications that promote learning. These applications could be used as the basis for a variety of educational activities, including collaboration. In this paper, we present the results of an experiment evaluating a basic feature of note-taking technology: copy-paste. Our findings indicate that copy-paste functionality can be detrimental to learning. We describe potential implications of these results for the developers of note-taking applications
Equine viral arteritis.

Equine viral arteritis (EVA) can cause prominent economic losses for the equine industry. The purpose of this review is to provide the pathologist some familiarity with the clinical history, lesions, patho- genesis, and diagnosis of EVA. EVA is caused by an arterivirus (equine arteritis virus, EAV), and the vascular system is the principal but not unique viral target. EVA has variable presentations, including interstitial pneu- monia, panvasculitis with edema, thrombosis and hemorrhage, lymphoid necrosis, renal tubular necrosis, abor- tion, and inflammation of male accessory genital glands. EAV antigen (EAVAg) can be demonstrated within the cytoplasm of epithelial cells such as alveolar pneumocytes, enterocytes, adrenal cortical cells, trophoblasts, thymus stroma, renal tubular cells, and male accessory genital gland cells. It can be also demonstrated within endothelia, in vascular, myometrial, and cardiac myocytes, macrophages, dendritelike cells of lymphoid organs, and chorionic mesenchymal stromal cells. In young and adult horses, following colonization of macrophages, the virus spreads systemically using circulating monocytes and enters the endothelium and tunica media of blood vessels, histiocytes, and dendritelike cells. Eventually, the virus multiplies within renal tubular cells. Lesions are uncommon in the aborted fetus; if present, they are mild, and EAVAg is frequently not detectable within fetal tissues and placenta. The clinical presentation and lesions of EVA may resemble those of other diseases. Complete pathologic examination associated with immunohistochemistry, virus isolation, and, espe- cially in cases of abortion, serology will guarantee a directed and accurate diagnosis.
Evaluation of Snow Depth and Soil Temperatures Predicted by the Hydro–Thermodynamic Soil–Vegetation Scheme Coupled with the Fifth-Generation Pennsylvania State University–NCAR Mesoscale Model

Abstract The Hydro–Thermodynamic Soil–Vegetation Scheme (HTSVS) coupled in a two-way mode with the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Mesoscale Meteorological Model (MM5) is evaluated for a typical snowmelt episode in the Baltic region by means of observations at 25 soil temperature, 355 snow-depth, and 344 precipitation sites that have, in total, 1000, 1775, and 1720 measurements, respectively. The performance with respect to predicted near-surface meteorological fields is evaluated using reanalysis data. Snow depth depends on snow metamorphism, sublimation, and snowfall. Because in the coupled model these processes are affected by the predicted surface radiation fluxes and cloud and precipitation processes, sensitivity studies are performed with two different cloud microphysical schemes and/or radiation schemes. Skill scores are calculated as a quality measure for the coupled model’s performance for a typical forecast range of 120 h for a typic...