cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pattern classification in dynamic environments: tagged feature-class representation and the classifiers

The author discusses: a tagged feature and class representation of the pattern recognition problem in a dynamic environment; univariate cooperative classifiers that are based on statistical feature evaluation and impose no constraint on the variations of the sets of classes and features; and inductive learning procedures that are used to create a class-feature space adaptive to the variations of the dynamic environment. The univariate classifier and the cooperative classifier apply a classify-by-rejection approach to a candidate class set. The classification is based on the individual evaluation of the features presented in the sample patterns and the classes. The tagged feature-class space permits convenient building of a hierarchical structure of the classifications A content-addressable data retrieved characteristic is possessed by both types of classifier. Experimental results on the classifiers are presented. >
76. The influence of running volume on CD4+ T cell subpopulations and the role of stress

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of stress on exercise-induced immune changes. Twenty-nine recreational runners were recruited for this study. Each recorded the number of miles that they ran in the week leading up to the study visit, completed the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ), and donated blood for assessment of CD4+ T cell subpopulations and cytokine production. Participants ran an average of 30 (13.4) miles per week and had average STAI and PSWQ scores of 32.6 (12.6) and 40 (16.6), respectively. Average values (SD) for immune biomarkers were as follows: Treg, 3.2% (1.2); Tr1, 27.1% (8.3); Th3, 7.4 (6.1); IFNγ, 32,027 pg/ml (26,404); IL4, 8.1 pg/ml (13.7); IFNγ/IL4, 10,610 (12,485); IL10, 512 pg/ml (288). Overall, there were significant correlations between Treg and running volume (beta = 0.051%, p = 0.002) and IL10 production and running volume (beta = −10.57 pg/ml, p = 0.007), and a borderline significant correlation between Tr1 and running volume (beta = −0.198%, p = 0.093). High levels of anxiety and worry were associated with a significant negative correlation between Tr1 and running volume and a significant positive correlation between IFNγ and running volume while low levels of anxiety and worry were not. These data indicate that high levels psychological stress can potentiate immunological changes resulting from endurance-based exercise.
Anemia associated with protein deficiency

Summary Anemia, with diminished concentration of serum iron and total iron-binding capacity as the result of protein failure, has been described in two young male infants suffering from cystic fibrosis, who had been fed formulas based on soya bean protein. Hypocupremia was also present in one of the patients. In the absence of detectable protein loss or increased protein degradation the hypoproteinemia appeared to be the result of inadequate utilization of this vegetable protein by these infants with defective protein digestion. The age at onset of anemia, the normochromic, normocytic appearance of the erythrocytes, and the decreased erythroid activity in the bone marrow all made the possibility of iron deficiency unlikely. Rapid and sustained reticulocytosis following an adequate intake of high-quality protein without additional iron suggested that protein deficiency was responsible for the low hemoglobin concentrations. In this connection the role of inadequate protein intake in the quantitative disturbance of hemoglobin synthesis is discussed. While the hypoferremia is through to reflect a defect in the transport process, the mechanism whereby protein deficiency leads to hypocupremia remains less certain.
Organophosphates of urine, including adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate and guanosine 3′,5′-monophosphate

Abstract The presence of organic phosphorus compounds in the urine of healthy rats has been investigated. The animals were administered [ 32 P]phosphate intraperitoneally to facilitate recognition and study of the metabolically derived P-containing components. Some of the phosphorus compounds were found to be extracted into ether at pH 4 , and were not studied in detail. Systematic investigation was confined to compounds in the aqueous phase that are adsorbed by Norit A, which has high affinity for compounds with conjugated double bonds. Compounds found in this fraction were the cyclic nucleotides adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (3′,5′-AMP) and guanosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (3′,5′-GMP), and three unidentified compounds recognized only by rather low 32 P contents. Excretion rates of the 3′,5′-AMP and 3′,5′-GMP were about 18 and 4 μg per day per 100 g rat body weight, respectively. These rates were not affected by treatment of rats with terramycin and sulphasuxidine. The cyclic 3′,5′-monophosphates of cytidine and uridine and the 5′-monophosphates of adenosine, cytidine, guanosine and uridine were either absent in the urine or present at levels too low for detection. Attention was drawn to the fact that the currently characterized organophosphorus compounds of normal urine are all phosphodiesters bearing only one negative charge per molecule. Possible implications concerning the permeability of cell walls were discussed. The specific 32 P activity of the 3′,5′-GMP of 24 h rat urine samples was only about 30 % as high as that of the 3′,5′-AMP. Comparison of this value with the results of prior kinetic data on labeling of the innermost P groups of GTP and ATP of rat liver suggested that the 3′,5′-GMP is synthesized metabolically from GTP by a cyclase reaction analogous to the reaction used by synthesis of 3′,5′-AMP from ATP in liver cells of dogs. The isotope dilution method was applied to analysis of normal human urine. It was found that in man 3′,5′-GMP is excreted at a rate of approx. 1 μmole per day.
Squamous carcinoma cell lines fail to respond to 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D despite normal levels of the vitamin D receptor.

Squamous carcinoma cells (SCC) fail to differentiate under conditions that are favorable for the growth and differentiation of normal human keratinocytes. Human keratinocytes differentiate from a highly proliferative basal cell to a terminally differentiated cornified cell in culture in the presence of physiological levels of extracellular calcium. 1,25-Dihydroxy-vitamin D (1,25[OH] 2 D 3 ) potentiates this process. Previous studies have shown that the differentiation process in keratinocytes is associated with increased expression of the genes for involucrin and transglutaminase, the products of which participate in cornified envelope formation. The mRNA for involucrin and transglutaminase was not detected in the SCC lines studied (viz., SCC4, 12B2, 12F2, A431, and HACAT) when they were grown in serum free medium. Addition of at least 2% fetal bovine serum for 48h triggered the expression of these genes, which could then be maintained in the absence of serum. Serum was not required for induction of these genes in keratinocytes. In these cells, 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 stimulated the expression of involucrin and transglutaminase in a concentration-dependent manner, while the SCC lines failed to respond to 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 regardless of whether these cells had been pre-exposed to serum. An important factor that mediates 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 -stimulated gene expression is the vitamin D receptor, but vitamin D receptor mRNA levels in all the SCC lines examined were comparable to those in keratinocytes. Furthermore, the vitamin D receptor protein levels in SCC lines as assessed by ligand-binding analysis were comparable to those of keratinocytes. Thus, the mediators of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 action on gene expression other than the vitamin D receptor may be missing or defective in SCC lines, whereas the mediators of as yet undefined agents in serum may be better expressed in SCC lines than in keratinocytes. Our results indicate that, although SCC lines are capable of expressing the genes for the proteins involved in differentiation, the control of the expression of these genes by 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 is abnormal in SCC despite the presence of a functional vitamin D receptor in concentrations equivalent to those in keratinocytes.
Influence of patient age and comorbid burden on clinician attitudes toward heart failure guidelines.

Abstract Background Clinical practice guidelines have been criticized for insufficient attention to the unique needs of patients of advanced age and with multiple comorbid conditions. However, little empiric research is available to inform this topic. Methods We conducted telephone interviews with staff physicians and nurse practitioners in 4 VA health care systems. Respondents were asked to rate the usefulness of national heart failure guidelines for patients of different ages and levels of comorbid burden on a 5-point scale and to comment on the reasons for their ratings. Results Of 139 clinicians contacted, 65 (47%) completed the interview. Almost half (49%) were women, and 48 (74%) were general internists or family practitioners. On a 5-point scale assessing the usefulness of clinical practice guidelines for heart failure, the mean (SD) response ranged from 4.4 (0.7) for patients younger than 65 years with few comorbid conditions to 3.5 (1.2) for patients older than 80 years with multiple comorbid conditions (P Conclusion Clinicians perceive heart failure guidelines to be substantially less useful in patients of older age and with greater comorbid burden. Concerns about the clinical and pharmacologic complexity of these patients and the expected benefits of drug therapy were commonly invoked as reasons for this skepticism.
The simple boundary element method for multiple cracks in functionally graded media governed by potential theory: a three-dimensional Galerkin approach

The simple boundary element method consists of recycling existing codes for homogeneous media to solve problems in non-homogeneous media while maintaining a purely boundary-only formulation. Within this scope, this paper presents a ‘simple’ Galerkin boundary element method for multiple cracks in problems governed by potential theory in functionally graded media. Steady-state heat conduction is investigated for thermal conductivity varying either parabolically, exponentially, or trigonometrically in one or more co-ordinates. A three-dimensional implementation which merges the dual boundary integral equation technique with the Galerkin approach is presented. Special emphasis is given to the treatment of crack surfaces and boundary conditions. The test examples simulated with the present method are verified with finite element results using graded finite elements. The numerical examples demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the present method especially when multiple interacting cracks are involved. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conidium differentiation in Aspergillus nidulans wild-type and wet-white (wetA) mutant strains

Conidium (asexual spore) differentiation in wild-type and the wet-white (wetA) mutant of Aspergillus nidulans was compared in intact chains of successively older conidia. Carbohydrate cytochemistry helped define three stages (Stages I, II, and III) of wild-type conidium maturation on the basis of changes in the ultrastructure and composition of the conidium wall. Conidia of the wetA6 mutant strain formed normally but failed to mature during Stages II and III. Specifically, the inner wall layer of wetA6 conidia did not condense during Stage II and two wall layers that stained for carbohydrates did not form during the transition to Stage III. Concomitantly, wetA6 conidia formed large cytoplasmic vacuoles and underwent lysis. The wetA gene appears to have a conidium-specific function for the modification of the conidium wall during Stages II and III. These modifications of the conidium wall are essential for the stability of mature, dormant conidia.
Osmotic effects in water absorption by polymers

Abstract The absorption of liquids by polymers which contain liquid-soluble inclusions is described. It is shown that the equilibrium uptake of liquid can be calculated if several properties of the inclusion such as solubility as well as the modulus of the polymer are known.
Structure and assembly mechanism for heteromeric kainate receptors.

Summary Native glutamate receptor ion channels are tetrameric assemblies containing two or more different subunits. NMDA receptors are obligate heteromers formed by coassembly of two or three divergent gene families. While some AMPA and kainate receptors can form functional homomeric ion channels, the KA1 and KA2 subunits are obligate heteromers which function only in combination with GluR5 – 7. The mechanisms controlling glutamate receptor assembly involve an initial step in which the amino terminal domains (ATD) assemble as dimers. Here, we establish by sedimentation velocity that the ATDs of GluR6 and KA2 coassemble as a heterodimer of K d 11 nM, 32,000-fold lower than the K d for homodimer formation by KA2; we solve crystal structures for the GluR6/KA2 ATD heterodimer and heterotetramer assemblies. Using these structures as a guide, we perform a mutant cycle analysis to probe the energetics of assembly and show that high-affinity ATD interactions are required for biosynthesis of functional heteromeric receptors.
Nuclear PI5P, Uhrf1, and the Road Not Taken

In this issue of Molecular Cell, Gelato et al. (2014) identify the signaling molecule phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate (PI5P) as an allosteric regulator that determines the mode of chromatin binding for the DNA methylation maintenance factor Uhrf1. This work links nuclear lipids to chromatin signaling in the maintenance of DNA methylation and epigenetic regulation.
Leukaemic B cells from patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia suppress immunoglobulin production by lymphocytes from normal donors

We observed that highly purified E-rosette-negative largely leukaemic B cells from 9 out of 15 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) significantly suppressed immunoglobulin production by mixtures of T4 and B cells from normal donors in the presence of pokeweed mitogen (PWM). This suppression by leukaemic B cells was concentration-dependent. Addition of equal numbers of B cells from normal donors to the mixtures of normal T4 and B cells increased, or had no effect on the production of IgM, IgA, and IgG. Treatment of purified largely leukaemic B cells from patients with CLL with either the anti-B1 or anti-Leu 1 monoclonal antibody plus complement abolished their ability to suppress immunoglobulin production. In contrast, treatment with either the anti-Leu 5 or the OKM1 monoclonal antibody plus complement had no effect on the suppression. These results suggest that leukaemic B cells from certain patients with CLL may exhibit, or can be induced to exhibit, immunosuppressive properties.
The impact of developer responsiveness on perceptions of usefulness and ease of use: an extension of the technology acceptance model

The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) suggests that the perceived usefulness (PU) and the perceived ease of use (PEOU) of an information system (IS) are major determinants of its use. Previous research has demonstrated the validity of this model across a wide variety of IS types. However, prior research has not identified antecedents of PU and there has been only limited research on the antecedents of PEOU. Consequently, research has provided little guidance to IS managers on methods to increase use by augmenting PU and PEOU.Viewing IS development as an instance of Social Exchange Theory (SET), this study proposes that IS managers can influence both the PU and the PEOU of an IS through a constructive social exchange with the user. One means of building and maintaining a constructive social exchange is through developer responsiveness. The results of this study, examining the adoption of an expert system, indeed support this notion. Specifically, developer responsiveness strongly influenced both PU and PEOU, but only indirectly affected actual behavior --- IS use --- in accordance with the predictions of SET. An extension of TAM based on SET is presented and the implications of this extended model are discussed from both a managerial and theoretical perspective.
PAIR TUNNELING AS A PROBE OF FLUCTUATIONS IN SUPERCONDUCTORS.

We suggest a method of using the average pair field of one superconductor to probe the fluctuation pair field of a second metal at temperature above the latter's superconducting transition point. The two metals should be fabricated as a strongly coupled tunnel junction and the dc $I\ensuremath{-}V$ characteristic measured as a function of both the bias voltage $V$ and the amplitude of a magnetic field $H$ parallel to the junction interface. The resultant $I\ensuremath{-}V$ characteristic is predicted to give a direct measurement of the frequency and wave-vector dependence of the $\ensuremath{\Delta}$ susceptibility characteristic of the superconducting transition.
The realistic preview may not yield career satisfaction

Abstract Based on 155 completed surveys from hospitality management alumni from three mid-Atlantic 4-year programs, this study suggests that a realistic preview of the industry gained in an experiential learning component may not, alone, be the key to early career satisfaction. While graduates reportedly believe they understand the expectations of the industry, they are expressing dissatisfaction in their first career positions. For human resource professionals, this study would indicate that special attention should be directed to the first-position college graduate, as 23% of respondents in this study reported leaving the industry altogether after the first management position.
Comment on [“Seeking explanation affects numerical modeling strategies”] Numerical modeling strategies revisited

Murray [2002] discussed the utility of numerical modeling as a geophysical research tool. He distinguished between what he termed “exploratory models,” which seek to approximate complex physical and chemical systems with relatively few processes involving simplified boundary conditions and a limited number of free parameters, and numerical simulations, which attempt to describe the complexity of the system in question in the fullest possible terms, often at small scales and with very large numbers of free parameters. Numerical simulations have the advantage of describing heterogeneous media, complicated boundary conditions, and a multitude of processes in great detail, usually with the intention of modeling natural systems in as realistic a way as is computationally feasible. However, as Murray pointed out, understanding the behavior of such models is often difficult, and may be no more illuminating than the direct study of the natural system. The reduction in model complexity utilized in exploratory modeling allows for the role of a few processes, model parameters, and their interactions to be examined in a sufficiently simple setting as to identify and characterize those parameters and processes that are keys to governing behavior of the system. For these reasons, Murray argues that the use of numerical simulation as an explanatory tool is limited, and exploratory modeling is usually better suited for this purpose. This article focuses on the role that numerical simulations play in geophysical research. Following Murray, a distinction is made between exploratory modeling (a numerical model involving an intentional reduction of parameter and/or processes complexity in comparison to the real system) and explanatory use of numerical models (an attempt to understand the physical and/or chemical systems involved).
Genome-Wide Association Identifies Regulatory Loci Associated with Distinct Local Histogram Emphysema Patterns

Rationale: Emphysema is a heritable trait that occurs in smokers with and without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Emphysema occurs in distinct pathologic patterns, but the genetic determinants of these patterns are unknown. Objectives: To identify genetic loci associated with distinct patterns of emphysema in smokers and investigate the regulatory function of these loci. Methods: Quantitative measures of distinct emphysema patterns were generated from computed tomography scans from smokers in the COPDGene Study using the local histogram emphysema quantification method. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were performed in 9,614 subjects for five emphysema patterns, and the results were referenced against enhancer and DNase I hypersensitive regions from ENCODE and Roadmap Epigenomics cell lines. Measurements and Main Results: Genome-wide significant associations were identified for seven loci. Two are novel associations (top single-nucleotide polymorphism rs379123 in MYO1D and rs9590614 in VMA8) located within genes that function in cell-cell signaling and cell migration, and five are in loci previously associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease susceptibility (HHIP, IREB2/CHRNA3, CYP2A6/ADCK, TGFB2, and MMP12). Five of these seven loci lay within enhancer or DNase I hypersensitivity regions in lung fibroblasts or small airway epithelial cells, respectively. Enhancer enrichment analysis for top GWAS associations (single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated at P < 5 × 10−6) identified multiple cell lines with significant enhancer enrichment among top GWAS loci, including lung fibroblasts. Conclusions: This study demonstrates for the first time genetic associations with distinct patterns of pulmonary emphysema quantified by computed tomography scan. Enhancer regions are significantly enriched among these GWAS results, with pulmonary fibroblasts among the cell types showing the strongest enrichment.
Protein, lipid and carbohydrate use during metamophosis in the fire ant, Solenopsis xyloni

. Concentrations of total sugars, lipids and soluble proteins were measured in prepupae and pupae of a native fire ant, Solenopsis xyloni W. M. wheeler (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Changes in the concentratons of these reserves were examined over the course of metamorphosis, in response to starvation, and in relation to body size. During metamorphosis, only lipid concentrations changed during the prepuapal period, dropping slightly. During the pupal state, however, approximately 75% of total sugars, 45% of lipids and 40% of soluble proteins were used. Starvation immediately prior to metamorphosis greatly decreased the quantity of carbohydrate detected at the beginning of the prepupal stage. Soluble protein levels were also slightly reduced. In contrast, lipid concentrations in prepupae increased in individuals that had been starved for 2–4 days immediately before metamorphosis. The relationship between body size and amount depended on the type of reserve. Lipid concetrations decreased with increasing size, while carbohydrate levels tended to increase slightly. Overall, soluble protein concentration did not change with size. Gel electrophoresis showed that two major polypeptides account for most of the soluble protein and one on these decreased sharply over the pupal period.
Expression of Trichoderma reesei exo-cellobiohydrolase I in transgenic tobacco leaves and calli.

Expression of Trichoderma reesei exo-cellobiohydrolase I (CBHI) gene in transgenic tobacco was under the control of CaMV 35S promoter. In transgenic leaf tissues, CBHI activity up to 66.1 (μ.mol/h/g total protein was observed. In transgenic calli, the highest CBHI activity was 83.6 μ.mol h/g total protein. Protein immunoblot analysis confirms the presence of CBHI enzyme in both transgenic calli and leaf tissues. CBHI expression levels accounted for about 0.11% and 0.082% of total protein in transgenic leaf tissues and calli, respectively. Furthermore, expression of CBHI gene did not affect normal growth and development of transgenic plants.
The mixmaster universe model, revisited

We re-examine the singularity structure of the mixmaster universe model based on recent developments concerning the treatment of negative resonances. In a previous publication we have shown that this model satisfied the Ablowitz-Ramani-Segur test for the Painleve property. Now using a different method, called the 'perturbative Painleve approach' which involves series in both positive and negative powers of the independent variable, we find that some compatibilities related to negative resonances are not satisfied. This leaves the possibility open that the mixmaster model may be non-integrable.
Nitrosation of amides involves a pseudopericyclic 1,3-sigmatropic rearrangement.

Two possible pathways for the nitrosation of formamide and N-methyl formamide by nitrosonium ion (NO+) have been investigated at the B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) level. The key steps are pseudopericyclic 1,3-s...
Seismic expression of Late Cretaceous to Recent structure in southwestern New Mexico

We present an interpretation of seismic-reflection data from the Playas and Hachita valleys of southwestern New Mexico which places new constraints on the geometry of structures responsible for Laramide shortening, and subsequent Basin and Range extensional structures. With seismic interpretation tied to well data and gravity modeling, we address aspects of the debate that still surrounds the question of whether Laramide shortening was accommodated by “thin-skinned” thrusting along a regional decollement or by basement-involved block uplifts. Our interpretation suggests that shortening was at least in part accommodated with low-angle, basement-involved thrusts. Subsequent extension occurred on range-bounding normal faults that become listric near 10-km depth. The relative lack of recent basin fill in the Playas Valley, and particularly the Hachita Valley, suggests either that uplift of the mountains along normal faults has been relatively recent or that extension has only just compensated for earlier shortening, and has yet to create deeply subsided basins.
SESAC releases recommendations for NASA science

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) needs to take action to ensure the long-term health of the space and earth science program in the wake of the Challenger accident, according to recommendations made recently by the Space and Earth Science Advisory Committee (SESAC) of the NASA Advisory Council (NAC). The space agency also must hasten to address “more immediate threats to the survival of significant elements of the space and earth science infrastructure that require near-term actions,” (see boxed item with SESAC recommendations). “It is important that NASA seek means to address both the near-term and longer-term needs of the program simultaneously,” the committee emphasized.
Intracervical fibrin sealants: a potential treatment for early preterm premature rupture of the membranes.

Objective: We report our experience with a transvaginally applied intracervical fibrin sealant at <24 weeks’ gestation. Study Design: This is an observational study of a referred patient population, with preterm premature rupture of the membranes at <24 weeks’ gestation. Results: Twelve women consented to our protocol. The mean gestational age at preterm premature rupture of membranes was 19 weeks 4 days (range, 13-23 weeks); the mean gestational age at treatment was 20 weeks 5 days (range, 17-23 weeks). All women had a diminution in the amount of amniotic fluid leakage with an increase in amniotic fluid index. Among the 12 pregnancies (13 fetuses), there were 7 surviving neonates. Two women had apparent “resealing” of the membranes. Conclusion: Fibrin sealants in midtrimester rupture of the membranes may lead to improved outcomes and now warrant formal evaluation. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;184:368-73.)
Correlation Between Distal Radial Cortical Thickness and Bone Mineral Density

Purpose To determine interobserver reliability in measuring the cortical thickness of distal radiuses on posteroanterior radiographs obtained at the time of injury and to determine whether there is a correlation between distal radius cortical thickness and hip and lumbar spine scores on dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Methods Four orthopedic surgeons at 2 academic institutions who were blinded to the study protocol reviewed standard posteroanterior wrist radiographs of 80 women over age 50 years with distal radius fractures with DXA data obtained within the past 2 years. Radial bicortical widths were measured at 50 and 70 mm proximal to the distal ulnar articular surface, and mean bicortical thickness was calculated from radiographs of the injured wrist. Average bicortical width was compared with each patient's femoral and lumbar spine bone density measures. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficients and simple linear regression. Inter-rater reliability was evaluated using intra-class correlation coefficients. Results The inter-rater reliability for average bicortical thickness had a high intra-class correlation coefficient value of 0.91. Average bicortical thickness showed a statistically significant positive relationship with femoral bone density. Average bicortical thickness was statistically correlated with femoral bone density values, with a 1-mm increase in average bicortical thickness associated with a 0.05 g/cm 2 -increase in femoral density. Average bicortical thickness was not associated with lumbar bone density. Conclusions Bicortical thickness of the distal radius was positively correlated with femoral bone density but not with lumbar spine density. This may reflect similarity in quality and loading properties of the femur and radius as appendicular bones, compared with the axial spine. Identification of thinned distal radial cortices in association with distal radius fracture is a simple qualitative observation that should prompt further evaluation with DXA and medical management of bone insufficiency. Type of study/level of evidence Diagnostic II.
The heliospheric cavity radio emission: Generation of discrete tones by Fermi acceleration via oscillating boundary

A theory is presented that describes the formation of the discrete radio tones that could apply to the radio emission observed in the outer heliosphere by the Voyager spacecraft. Specifically, a broadband emission is assumed to be trapped within the heliospheric cavity. If the heliospheric outer boundary, the heliopause, has a large-scale, monochromatic oscillation, the trapped emission will form intense, discrete tones at wave frequencies where the photon travel time is an integer ratio of the boundary oscillation period. A new set of nonlinear coupled difference equations are presented that describe the interaction of the trapped photon with the boundary, the set appearing similar to that used to model Fermi acceleration of particles via oscillatory boundaries. Results indicate that heliopause oscillation periods on the order of 1000s of seconds could generate tones at frequencies near those observed by Voyager. The tones can also drift in association with the changing cavity size or oscillation period.
Scanning electron microscopy of poultry coccidia after in vitro excystation and penetration of cultured cells.

The surface structure of Eimeria tenella and E. adenoeides oocysts, sporocysts, and sporozoites were studied by scanning electron microscopy to determine if changes in these surfaces occurred during in vitro excystation and following penetration into cells cultured in monolayers. Oocysts have a rough textured proteinaceous coat. Surface sterilization with NaOCl removed the outer covering of the oocysts, leaving a smooth surface. Sporocysts released from ruptured oocysts had a smooth textured surface. The sporocyst hull covered all of the Stieda body except the tip which was located partly outside the narrow end of the sporocyst. The opening of the sporocyst was slightly ruffled. Excysted sporozoites had a rough surface with small pits and grooves suggestive of micropores and other pellicular invaginations and constrictions. The anterior end of the sporozoites possessed a well defined truncated protrusion of the conoidal complex, the rostrum. We attribute this phenomenon to the activation of the sporozoite by the trypsin-bile solution.
SHIELD: a comprehensive earth-protection architecture

Abstract The greatest natural threat to the long-term survivability of mankind is an asteroid or comet impact with the Earth. SHIELD is an architectural concept for a comprehensive Earth defense system designed to discover, catalog, calculate orbits of near-Earth objects, and to deflect potential impactors. SHIELD consists of Sentries, Soldiers, and an Earth Control Center. Sentries are spacecraft designed to search and locate NEOs of all types. Sentries maximize the lead-time for a potential impact, which simplifies the task of the Soldiers to deflect the object. Sentry spacecraft determine the orbit of each object, and compare it with the onboard database of known NEOs. The results are kept in a distributed space-Earth database. Soldier spacecraft deflect or disperse the potential impactor. Several mitigation methods have been compared by their specific impulse. Each technique requires some development to be feasible. These techniques can be categorized into “rendezvous” in which the Soldier physically lands on the NEO and “intercept”. The required number of Soldiers and their locations has been examined. SHIELD has clearly shown that an Earth-protection system is practical and that a full system could be built within a few years. Indeed, very capable Sentries can be launched today.
p16 INK4a Expression Correlates with Degree of Cervical Neoplasia: A Comparison with Ki-67 Expression and Detection of High-Risk HPV Types

Although recent studies have suggested that p16(INK4a) may be a useful surrogate biomarker of cervical neoplasia, Ki-67 and human papillomavirus testing have also been shown to be useful in detecting neoplasia. To help delineate the utility of p16(INK4a), biopsy samples (n = 569: negative, 133; reactive, 75; atypical, 39; low grade, 76; moderate, 80; and severe intraepithelial neoplasia, 113; also, squamous cell carcinoma, 46; adenocarcinoma, 7) were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for expression of p16(INK4a) and Ki-67 (n = 432), as well as by in situ hybridization for human papillomavirus Type 16 (n = 219). Testing for high-risk human papillomavirus types by polymerase chain reaction and HybridCapture2 was performed on concurrent cervical swab specimens. Recuts of the original blocks were reexamined (n = 198). Endometrial biopsies (n = 10) were also analyzed for p16(INK4a) expression. Degree of p16(INK4a) and Ki-67 expression correlated with degree of cervical neoplasia (P <.001) and with presence of high-risk human papillomavirus types (P <.001). There was no relationship between p16(INK4a) overexpression and inflammation or hormonal status. Ki-67 expression correlated with inflammation (P = 0.003) and was expressed in more reactive and atypical lesions than p16(INK4a) (P = 0.008). Probes for human papillomavirus 16 stained 54% of cervical neoplastic lesions; the degree of staining correlated significantly with degree of neoplasia (P <.001) and p16(INK4a) staining (P <.001). Interobserver reproducibility was substantial for p16(INK4a) and Ki-67 interpretation (weighted kappa: 0.74 and 0.70, respectively). Expression of p16(INK4a) was observed in all endometrial biopsies. Compared with Ki-67 expression and detection of high-risk human papillomavirus, p16(INK4a) was less likely to be positive in samples from women with negative, reactive, and atypical biopsies. Although expression of p16(INK4a) in endometrial epithelium may be problematic in terms of screening, the potential of p16(INK4a) as a screening test warrants investigation.
Economics of information and heterogeneous products

Abstract This study extends the economics of information model to include products with varying price-attribute combinations, as suggested by Ratchford (1980). For a sample of consumers, estimates of optimal search are compared to estimates of actual consumer search intentions to determine whether consumer search is optimal. The results show that the cost-benefit analysis explains substantially more variance in consumer search when the attributes of products are taken into account. In addition, this study shows that actual consumer search intentions are moderately correlated with optimal search. Surprisingly, consumers in the sample were actually willing to search more than is optimal.
Psychological and physiological responses of individuals displaying type A behaviour.

. Earlier findings on the relationship between the coronary–prone behaviour pattern Type A and coronary heart disease (CHD) are briefly reviewed, with particular reference to the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms linking the two. Results obtained during the playing of competitive games with or without harassment from the opponent suggest that competition alone does not distinguish between Type A and Type B individuals. The Type A pattern appears to be associated with exaggerated cardiovascular responses only as the result of hostile interactions. The primary need to study the Type A pattern as a psychological construct is emphasized. Analysis of structured interview responses suggests that hostility and competitive drive are the two components of the pattern associated with cardiovascular disease. A model is proposed in which Type A subjects, faced with threats to their control, exhibit first hyper–responsive and then hypo–responsive efforts to regain it, and experimental evidence in support of this model is presented. However, such hyper–responsive reactions might be linked more closely to coping and defence mechanisms than they are to Type A. It is proposed that the Type A pattern be regarded as an aspect of the per son–situation interaction and that efforts be made to establish those classes of environmental stimuli likely to elicit it.
Focusing capillary optics for use in solution small‐angle X‐ray scattering

Measurements of the global conformation of macromolecules can be carried out using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Glass focusing capillaries, manufactured at the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS), have been successfully employed for SAXS measurements on the heme protein cytochrome c. These capillaries provide high X-ray flux into a spot size of tens of micrometres, permitting short exposures of small-volume samples. Such a capability is ideal for use in conjunction with microfluidic mixers, where time resolution may be determined by beam size and sample volumes are kept small to facilitate mixing and conserve material.
Eliminating nail-biting by the habit reversal procedure.

Abstract Fingernail-biting is prevalent among children and adults alike. About 43% of children bite their nails during the puberty ages (Wechsler, 1931); 25% of college students are nail-biters (Coleman and McCalley, 1948), and 10% of adults bite their nails (Pennington, 1945). A variety of treatments including negative practice, operant procedures and psychotherapy have been used in treating nail-biting but no single treatment has been generally effective in eliminating nail-biting. Smith (1957) using negative practice reported that 21 of 57 (39%) of his nail-biting clients were cured. 9 improved and 27 (47%) were unimproved. Bucher (1968) reported that 13 of 20 (65%) college students stopped nail-biting by using a self-administered operant shock procedure. However, he reported many relapses after the withdrawal of shock for nail-biting. No evaluation of psychoanalytic treatment for nail-biting appears to have been made.
Internal consulting: perspectives on the process of planned change

Articles on consulting usually focus on the external consultant and the perspective of the internal consultant is rarely discussed. Compares the general world of consulting for organizational change, as typified by the external consultant, with the specific world of the internal consultant. Following the phases of the consulting cycle, highlights salient differences. Outlines the advantages and disadvantages of the internal consultant world.
Screening for Wilms' tumor in children with high‐risk congenital syndromes: Considerations for an intervention trial

Screening for cancer in children is uncommon. However, in children with congenital syndromes associated with Wilms' tumor, conditions exist that potentially make screening effective. This select population of children 1) are relatively easily identified; 2) have a high incidence of Wilms' tumor; 3) if identified before development of Wilms' tumor, may have a decrement in morbidity/mortality; and 4) are amenable to a simple and acceptable screening technology, renal sonography exams. Many clinicians have recommended screening for cancer in children with congenital syndromes associated with Wilms' tumor. However, neither costs nor effectiveness of such recommendations have been evaluated systematically. The strongest evidence for or against Wilms' tumor screening in this select population would be provided by a randomized screening trial. Prior to undertaking such a trial, the key parameters that dominate the cost and effectiveness of screening should be identified. Simulation models, such as cost effectiveness analysis, offer a starting point for deciding whether cancer screening is appropriate, and if so, under what set of conditions. We review basic conditions required for a successful screening trial in children with syndromes that are at increased risk of Wilms' tumor. We also discuss the use of cost-effectiveness analysis as a preliminary step in determining the feasibility of an intervention trial.
Dynamics of periodical cicada chorus centers (Homoptera: Cicadidae:Magicicada)

Mating aggregations of three species of periodical cicadas were monitored during the emergence of Brood XIX at a 16-ha study site in northwest Arkansas, May–June 1985. Magicicada tredecassiniappeared first and formed the most choruses. M. tredecimand M. tredeculachoruses formed next, and M. tredeculachoruses outnumbered those of M. tredecim.Of the 268 choruses seen, 84% were composed of M. tredecassini. M. tredecassiniwere often found chorusing in the same trees with the other two species. Such multispecies mating aggregations apparently are unique to periodical cicadas. Choruses were dynamic with respect to their locations and durations. Initially, choruses were located near areas of high cicada emergence densities. One week later, cicadas chorused in trees throughout the forest and at the forest edge. Many choruses were seen only once at a location. Although cicadas chorused for almost 4 weeks, individual choruses persisted only approximately 8 days, on average. Sound intensities under chorus centers ranged from 50 to 80 dh and were correlated with arena sizes during times of peak chorus activity. No distinct habitat preferences of the three species were observed, however, the tree species used by chorusing cicadas differed among the species.
Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure in Atelectasis

Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has been widely and safely used in the treatment of sleep disorders but has not been previously utilized for therapy of pulmonary atelectasis in adults. We observed three patients with significant atelectasis which was refractory to conventional chest physiotherapy. Bronchoscopy was not a viable therapeutic option in any patient. Therapy with continuous nasal CPAP was initiated at 10 to 15 cm H2O. The patients tolerated the therapy well and had prompt resolution of atelectasis. Nasal CPAP may be an effective modality for therapy of pulmonary atelectasis in spontaneously breathing patients, particularly when conventional therapies are not tolerated or are ineffectual.
Can’t Ask, Can’t Tell How Insitutional Review Boards Keep Sex In The Closet

Insitutional Review Boards (IRBs) pose many challenges for sexuality researchers. Sociologist Janice M. Irvine explores how IRBs marginalize sexuality research and the effects of this process.
Quantitation of Plasma Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 RNA by Competitive Polymerase Chain Reaction

Clinical measures of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1 activity in vivo are limited and hinder the assessment of antiretroviral therapies. Reported here is a method for quantitating HIV-1 RNA in human plasma using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This method uses an internal cRNA standard generated from a cloned 113-bp deletion mutation of a highly conserved HIV-1 gag region sequence. The mutant cRNA (K4) was shown to amplify with efficiency equivalent to that of wild-type HIV-1. Known quantities of K4 cRNA added to wild-type HIV-1 in a competitive PCR strategy using a radiolabeled primer permitted quantitation of wild-type HIV-1 RNA over four orders of magnitude (10(3)-10(6) RNA copies). RNA isolated from plasma from AIDS patients yielded 10(3) to 8 x 10(4) HIV-1 RNA copies/ml of plasma with an average intrasample coefficient of variation of .26. This method offers a sensitive assay with a broad dynamic range for monitoring HIV-1 activity in the plasma of AIDS patients. It may provide a useful tool for assessing the effects of antiretroviral therapy.
Performance introspection of graph databases

The explosion of graph data in social and biological networks, recommendation systems, provenance databases, etc. makes graph storage and processing of paramount importance. We present a performance introspection framework for graph databases, PIG, which provides both a toolset and methodology for understanding graph database performance. PIG consists of a hierarchical collection of benchmarks that compose to produce performance models; the models provide a way to illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of a particular implementation. The suite has three layers of benchmarks: primitive operations, composite access patterns, and graph algorithms. While the framework could be used to compare different graph database systems, its primary goal is to help explain the observed performance of a particular system. Such introspection allows one to evaluate the degree to which systems exploit their knowledge of graph access patterns. We present both the PIG methodology and infrastructure and then demonstrate its efficacy by analyzing the popular Neo4j and DEX graph databases.