cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gene Flow and Adaptive Potential in Drosophila melanogaster

Gene flow among historically isolated populations is expected to increase genetic diversity and consequently the ability of populations to adapt to environmental changes. Few experimental studies, however, have examined the relationship between gene flow and the adaptive potential of populations. The increase in adaptive potential that occurs as a result of gene flow is expected to depend on the genetic variance among populations that undergo genetic exchange. In the present study, we compared observed and expected changes in adaptive potential (as measured by the selection response of sternopleural bristle number) that occur as a result of gene flow among experimental populations of Drosophila melanogaster. We examined the effect of limited immigration (m = 0.05 over 3 generations) among a set of experimentally isolated lineages, in addition to the effect of complete hybridization among lineages. As expected, we found that limited immigration and hybridization both yielded increases in adaptive potential. However, whereas the effect of limited immigration agreed well with theoretical expectations, the increase in adaptive potential following complete hybridization of lineages was significantly less than expected. We discuss these findings in relation to endangered species conservation efforts, particularly with respect to the goal of maximizing the retention of adaptive potential within managed populations.
Psychiatric Patient Assaults and the Staff Victims: An Introduction.

This brief paper presents an introductory overview of three papers on psychiatric patient assailants. The papers include the characteristics of patient assailants, precipitants to such assaults, and the characteristics of the staff victims of these assaults. The flexibility of the Assaulted Staff Action Program (ASAP) to address staff victims’ post-incident psychological needs is discussed.
Preventing Depressive Relapse and Recurrence in Higher Risk Cognitive Therapy Responders: A Randomized Trial of Continuation Phase Cognitive Therapy, Fluoxetine, or Matched Pill Placebo

Importance Strategies to improve the course of recurrent major depressive disorder have great public health relevance. To reduce the risk of relapse/recurrence after acute phase cognitive therapy (CT), a continuation phase model of therapy may improve outcomes. Objectives To test the efficacy of continuation phase CT (C-CT) and fluoxetine for relapse prevention in a pill placebo (PBO)–controlled randomized trial and compare the durability of prophylaxis after discontinuation of treatments. Design A sequential, 3-stage design with an acute phase (all patients received 12 weeks of CT); 8-month experimental phase (responders at higher risk were randomized to C-CT, fluoxetine, or PBO); and 24 months of longitudinal, posttreatment follow-up. Setting Two university-based specialty clinics. Patients A total of 523 adults with recurrent major depressive disorder began acute phase CT, of which 241 higher-risk responders were randomized and 181 subsequently entered the follow-up. Interventions Cognitive therapy responders at higher risk for relapse were randomized to receive 8 months of C-CT (n = 86), fluoxetine (n = 86), or PBO (n = 69). Main Outcomes and Measures Survival analyses of relapse/recurrence rates, as determined by blinded evaluators using DSM-IV criteria and the Longitudinal Interval Follow-up Evaluation. Results As predicted, the C-CT or fluoxetine groups were significantly less likely to relapse than the PBO group across 8 months. Relapse/recurrence rates for C-CT and fluoxetine were nearly identical during the 8 months of treatment, although C-CT patients were more likely to accept randomization, stayed in treatment longer, and attended more sessions than those in the fluoxetine and PBO groups. Contrary to prediction, relapse/recurrence rates following the discontinuation of C-CT and fluoxetine did not differ. Conclusions and Relevance Relapse risk was reduced by both C-CT and fluoxetine in an enriched randomization sampling only CT responders. The preventive effects of C-CT were not significantly more durable than those of fluoxetine after treatment was stopped, suggesting that some higher-risk patients may require alternate longer-term interventions. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifiers:NCT00118404,NCT00183664, andNCT00218764
Chemical triggering of reproduction in Microtus montanus

In a replicated experiment, nonbreeding winter populations of Microtus montanus were given supplements of rolled oats coated with 6-methoxybenzoxazolinone, a naturally occurring plant derivative. After 3 weeks of this feeding regime, samples from the populations demonstrated a high incidence of pregnancy in females and testicular hypertrophy in males. Control populations receiving rolled oats coated only with the solvent showed no reproductive activity. These results demonstrate that the presence of 6-methoxybenzoxazolinone in the plant food resource acts as the ultimate cue to trigger reproductive effort in Microtus montanus.
Tensile behaviour of blends of poly(vinylidene fluoride) with poly(methyl methacrylate)

Blends of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVF2) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) were prepared over a wide concentration range and tested in tension at the same relative temperature below the glass transition. In nearly all blends, under conditions favoring disentanglement, (decrease in strain rate, or increase in test temperature), the yield stress and drawing stress decreased while the breaking strain increased. For materials with about the same degree of crystallinity, those with a higher proportion of amorphous PVF2 exhibited brittle-like behavior as a result of interlamellar tie molecules. In the semicrystalline blends, yield stress remains high as the test temperature approaches Tg, whereas in the amorphous blends the yield stress falls to zero near Tg. Results of physical aging support the role of interlamellar ties which cause semicrystalline blends to exhibit aging at temperatures above Tg.
Recursive voids for identifying a nonconvex boundary of a set of points in the plane

We introduce a method that identifies the boundary of a nonconvex shape of a set of points in the plane. The boundary of the shape is explored through finding empty regions recursively within a shell that encapsulates all of the points. Our algorithm is output sensitive and runs in linear O(@?n) time determined by the output parameter @?, which is proportional to the length of the nonconvex boundary measured by a threshold unit distance. The recursive nature of our algorithm allows a tree structure that characterizes the empty regions, and by complementarity, the nonconvex shape itself. We use a distance measure based on lowest common ancestor of a pair of nodes in this tree and define the complexity of a shape as the average of the distances between all pairs. We present computational results on data size, threshold, shape complexity and noise on a set of different nonconvex shapes.
Multiple-wavelength reference based on interleaved, sampled fiber Bragg gratings and molecular absorption

We present a wavelength calibration reference based on interleaved, sampled fiber Bragg gratings stabilized to a molecular absorption line. Such a hybrid reference can provide multiple stable calibration peaks over a wide range of wavelengths. We demonstrate a wavelength reference that has at least 20 peaks suitable for use as calibration references in each of three wavelength regions: 850, 1300, and 1550 nm. We monitored the stability of a 1300-nm reflection peak and found that the standard deviation of the peak wavelength was 0.7 pm over a 70-day period.
Pilot study of pentoxifylline in hepatopulmonary syndrome.

Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) results when chronic liver disease or portal hypertension causes intrapulmonary microvascular dilatation with hypoxemia. In experimental HPS, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) overproduction contributes to vasodilatation, which is improved by pentoxifylline, a TNF-α inhibitor. The effectiveness of pentoxifylline in humans is unknown. The aim of this open-label, single-arm clinical trial was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of pentoxifylline in patients with cirrhosis and advanced HPS undergoing liver transplantation evaluation. Nine adults with cirrhosis and moderate to severe HPS were enrolled. All patients had an initial 2-week titration to a target dose of pentoxifylline of 400 mg by mouth every 8 hours, which was continued for 6 weeks. Baseline and follow-up arterial blood gases and TNF-α levels were evaluated. Adverse effects and tolerability were assessed. The 9 patients had a mean age of 55 ± 10 years, and 67% were female. The most common causes of cirrhosis were hepatitis C virus and alcohol (55%). The mean Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score was 11 (range, 6-19), and patients had advanced hypoxemia [mean partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) = 54 ± 12 mm Hg, mean alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient (A-a PaO2) = 57 ± 15 mm Hg]. Of the 9 patients enrolled, follow-up blood gases were done in 7. There was no significant change in PaO2 (P = 0.3) or A-a PaO2 (P = 0.3) with treatment. Pentoxifylline was poorly tolerated. Nausea (100%) and vomiting (56%) were the predominant side effects, and only a single patient was able to complete full-dose therapy. Treatment with pentoxifylline did not improve arterial oxygenation in advanced HPS, and tolerance was limited by gastrointestinal toxicity. Liver Transpl 14:1199–1203, 2008. © 2008 AASLD.
Counting the Homeless: The Census Bureau's "S-Night" in Five U.S. Cities

Shelter and Street Night (S-Night) was the recent effort by the U.S. Bureau of the Census to include selected components of the nation's homeless population in the 1990 decennial count. Teams of investigators in five cities (New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and New Orleans) were contracted by the Census Bureau's Center for Survey Methods Research to assist in assessing various aspects of the S-Night enumeration. Each team compiled independent shelter lists that were compared against the Bureau's lists and also undertook experiments to assess the reliability of the enumeration effort. This introductory statement reviews the design features, methods, findings, and recommendations that were common to all five studies presented in a special issue focused on counting the homeless.
PROTEIN METHYLATION IN RAT BRAIN IN VITRO

— Protein-methylation activity in various organs of the rat was studied with S-adenosyl-L-[methyl-14C]methionine ([methyl-14C](SAM) as methyl donor. Activity of the enzyme was highest in brain and lowest in liver. Histones comprised approximately 20 per cent of the total radioactivity incorporated, and lysine-rich histone was the most active. Analysis of amino acids of the methylated proteins of rat brain showed arginine to be the amino acid most extensively methylated, but some methylation occurred in lysine residues. An additional [methyl-14C]-labelled amino acid was found near histidine on the amino acid column chromatogram.
Shared aperture for two beams of different wavelength using the Talbot effect

A shared aperture using only reflective optics for two coherent beams with different wavelengths is desired. Beams that share an aperture are colinear, and they have the same transverse phase profile across the aperture as their respective sources. A shared aperture system composed entirely of reflective phase gratings is presented here. Using the Talbot effect that is observed in Fresnel diffraction from periodic objects, the phase of the beams is preserved, and the efficiency of the system is maximized. An experimental Talbot shared aperture system using HeNe and HeCd beams has an efficiency of 88.1% for the HeNe beam and 70.3% for the HeCd beam. These measured efficiencies agree well with computer simulations.
Light-induced magnetization changes in a coordination polymer heterostructure of a Prussian blue analogue and a Hofmann-like Fe(II) spin crossover compound.

Coordination polymer thin film heterostructures of the Prussian blue analogue NiIIb[CrIII(CN)6]0.7·nH2O (NiCr-PBA) and the 3D Hofmann-like spin crossover compound Fe(azpy)[Pt(CN)4]·xH2O {azpy = 4,4′-azopyridine} have been developed, and spin transition properties have been characterized via SQUID magnetometry and Raman spectroscopy. The magnetic response of the ferromagnetic NiCr-PBA layer (Tc ≈ 70 K) can be altered by inducing the LIESST effect (light-induced excited spin state trapping) in the coupled paramagnetic Fe(II) spin crossover material. Whereas an increase in magnetization is measured for the single-phase Fe(azpy)[Pt(CN)4]·xH2O, a decrease in magnetization is observed for the heterostructure. These results indicate the LIESST effect alone cannot account for the sign and magnitude of the magnetization change in the heterostructure, but the temperature profile of the magnetization shows that significant changes in the NiCr-PBA network are correlated to the spin state of the Hofmann-like SCO network.
Multiple myeloma: Current therapy and a glimpse of the future

Patients with benign monoclonal gammopathy or smouldering multiple myeloma should not be treated. The plasma cell labelling index utilizing tritiated thymidine or a monoclonal antibody to 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine is helpful in differentiating patients with benign monoclonal gammopathy or smouldering myeloma from those with overt myeloma. Although combinations of chemotherapeutic agents seem to produce a greater number of objective responses than does melphalan-prednisone, a significant difference in survival has not been proved. Possibilities for future treatment include chemotherapy with large intravenous doses of melphalan, very small doses of cyclophosphamide or melphalan, the administration of hydroxyurea before chemotherapy, combination of interferon with alkylating agents, autologous bone marrow transplantation, and improvement of the soft-agar colony-forming assay for myeloma cells. The therapeutic use of monoclonal antibodies to plasma cell antigens may be possible in the future. Much more needs to be learned about the biologic basis of myeloma before real progress can be made.
Weak solutions of an initial boundary value problem for an incompressible viscous fluid with nonnegative density

The initial boundary value problem associated with the motion of an incompressible viscous fluid with variable density is studied. The lower bound of density is allowed to be zero and the local existence of a weak solution is established.
Software project managers' risk preferences

A questionnaire was administered to 68 software project managers (SPMs). Questions were designed to test whether SPMs' risky judgments were more consistent with Expected Utility Theory or Prospect Theory. Although the results were more consistent with Prospect Theory, they differed in important ways showing SPMs' judgments to be less homogeneous than is assumed by either theory. These results highlight the potential importance of SPMs' judgments to the outcome of software development projects.
Human erythrocyte transglutaminase. Purification and properties.

Abstract Transglutaminase has been isolated from human erythrocytes, and some of its molecular and catalytic properties have been determined. An enzyme preparation of about 15% purity is readily obtained in about 25% yield after DEAE-cellulose fractionation and gel filtration. In order to achieve this yield of enzyme it is essential to add to the buffers a dialyzable stabilizing factor which is present in the early enzyme fractions. This natural factor can be partly replaced by chelating compounds and totally replaced by ATP, and in practice, the purification of the enzyme is best carried out with ATP present in the buffers. The role of ATP in stabilizing the enzyme is unknown. Complete purification of the erythrocyte transglutaminase can be accomplished by preparative acrylamide gel electrophoresis. The pure enzyme has a molecular weight of 82 000 ± 5000, as established by gel filtration and SDS gel electrophoresis, and its catalytic properties are essentially identical to those of guinea pig liver transglutaminase. The guinea pig liver and the erythrocyte enzymes have also been compared as catalysts for protein modification reactions, and have been found to have quite similar specificity requirements for protein substrates. Both enzymes catalyzed significant incorporation of amines into 4 of 20 soluble proteins tested and into proteins 1, 2 and 3 of the red cell membrane. The partially purified erythrocyte enzyme has been found to be completely satisfactory for protein modification experiments, and the ready availability of outdated human blood and the simple purification procedure should make this enzyme a convenient protein-modifying or crosslinking reagent.
Biochemical characterization of the minor immunophilins.

Abstract Objective: We present biochemical characterization of the previously described 14 kDa, 37 kDa, and 52 kDa immunophilins and a newly identified 5–8 kDa immunophilin. Design and methods: Proteins were tested for the following enzymatic activities—rotamase, G3PDH, protein kinase C, cAMP dependent protein kinase—and for the ability to inhibit calcineurin phosphatase when complexed with tacrolimus (FK506). Results: The 5–8 kDa protein, like the other minor immunophilins, lacks rotamase activity. Since the 37 kDa possesses G3PDH activity, the 5–8 kDa protein, 14 kDa protein, and 52 kDa protein were all tested and found to lack G3PDH activity. Additional work shows that none of the minor immunophilins possess protein kinase C or cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase activity and that the 37 kDa and 5–8 kDa and probably the 52 kDa proteins are capable of inhibiting calcineurin phosphatase when bound to tacrolimus.
Amyloid myopathy: Clinicopathologic study of 16 cases

Amyloid deposition in skeletal muscle is a well-recognized but rare occurrence. Sixteen such cases seen in a 17-year period (1979 to 1996) out of a total of 3,937 muscle biopsy specimens (0.004%) form this study group. Either Congo red or sulfated alcian blue stains were routinely performed in each biopsy to screen for amyloid. Patients in this study (eight men, eight women) ranged in age from 42 to 90 years (mean, 61 years) at initial presentation. The most common symptoms at presentation included weakness/fatigue (n = 10), autonomic symptoms (n = 8), and weight loss/decreased appetite (n = 7). Five patients had a concomitant malignancy (myeloma, n = 3; malignant carcinoid tumor, n = 1; melanoma, n = 1). Two patients had known hereditary forms of amyloidosis. Five patients had amyloid diagnosed on another organ biopsy (excluding peripheral nerve). Histologically, amyloid was deposited in the interstitium or perivascular region in 14 muscles and endomysial region in seven muscles. All cases were confirmed with Congo red staining (apple green birefringence) or by electron microscopic identification of fibrillary amyloid material. Scattered angular atrophic esterase-positive muscle myofibers indicative of acute denervation atrophy were seen in 14 muscles. Eight muscles showed small group atrophy, and seven showed myofiber type grouping. Scattered regenerating muscle fibers were seen in nine cases, degenerating myofibers in six, and foci of chronic endomysial and perivascular inflammation in two. Four muscles showed type II muscle fiber atrophy. A concomitant sural nerve biopsy specimen was evaluated in seven patients; all seven contained amyloid, confirmed either by Congo red staining or electron microscopic examination. In two nerves, there was a mild loss of myelinated axons; four had a moderate loss, and one, severe loss. Six of seven nerves showed predominantly axonopathic changes. In conclusion, (1) the prevalence rate of amyloid myopathy in muscle biopsy specimens was low (in this series, 0.004%); (2) only a minority of patients had multiple myeloma, and most presented with muscle weakness/fatigue or autonomic symptoms; (3) most of the muscles showed neurogenic features histologically; (4) all concomitant sural nerve biopsy specimens contained amyloid, and most showed a predominance of axonopathic changes.
THE EFFECTS ON MONETARY POLICY OF RISING COSTS IN COMMERCIAL BANKS

THE PURPOSE OF THIS paper is to examine the possibility that the effectiveness of monetary policy has been impeded by growing rigidities within the commercial banking system. The paper will attempt to demonstrate that these rigidities have increased during the last decade and that their development can be ascribed to the growing cost pressures in commercial banks. Since the monetary authorities can, in effect, impose their decisions on the economy only through the commercial banking system, the efficiency of banks as a means of policy transmission is of paramount importance. In recent years monetary policy has been criticized as an economic weapon incapable of achieving the degree of effectiveness that has been claimed on its behalf. Milton Friedman and others have suggested that the errors in cyclical diagnosis and the lags inherent in monetary policy between implementation and effect are such that discretionary central banking should be abandoned in favor of an automatic system of increasing the money supply at a constant rate, regardless of cyclical conditions.' J. G. Gurley and E. S. Shaw have proposed that the powers of the Federal Reserve System be widened, in order that the relative decline in the share of the financial markets commanded by the commercial banking system be offset by bringing under the control of the Federal Reserve System other types of financial intermediaries.2 The Gurley-Shaw thesis is essentially a criticism of the effectiveness of the commercial banking system as a vehicle of policy transmission because of the system's decline in importance. Commercial banks are profit-motivated institutions, and their response to central bank actions is largely influenced by the manner in which these actions affect their profit opportunities. However, if
Epithelioid cell histiocytoma: a new entity

This is a report of a previously undescribed type of histiocytoma distinguished clinically by its occurrence as a solitary elevated nodule often with a vascular appearance and cytologically by the presence of large angulated epithelioid cells. Nineteen lesions from 11 women and eight men have been studied. The lower limb was the commonest site for the nodules. The mean age at presentation was 42 years (range 23-63). Only one lesion recurred after attempted removal. This lesion in the past may, have been mistaken for a Spitz naevus. Immunohistochemical findings mirror those of ordinary histiocytomas. In particular approximately 50% of the constituent cells label with a polyclonal antibody directed against factor XIIIa--an antibody that labels dermal fixed connective tissue cells (fibrocytes) and cells in ordinary histiocytoma, but not the cells of Spitz or common melanocytic naevi.
Optimising accelerator for CAD workstation

Sequential versions of those optimisation algorithms which are based on random search heuristics are often too slow to be of value to the interactive user of a CAD workstation. A significant gain in speed can be achieved by using concurrent algorithms to drive an optimising accelerator attached to the workstation. The paper discusses the design and performance of a hardware accelerator which incorporates INMOS transputers. Concurrent versions of two algorithms are described, one relevant to combinatorial optimisation and the other to global optimisation. The mapping of these algorithms on to the transputer hardware is discussed. The application and performance of each algorithm is illustrated by means of a representative problem from the field of electronic engineering.
Differential Signaling of Cyclic AMP OPPOSING EFFECTS OF EXCHANGE PROTEIN DIRECTLY ACTIVATED BY CYCLIC AMP AND cAMP-DEPENDENT PROTEIN KINASE ON PROTEIN KINASE B ACTIVATION

The recent discovery of Epac, a novel cAMP receptor protein, opens up a new dimension in studying cAMP-mediated cell signaling. It is conceivable that many of the cAMP functions previously attributed to cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) are in fact also Epac-dependent. The finding of an additional intracellular cAMP receptor provides an opportunity to further dissect the divergent roles that cAMP exerts in different cell types. In this study, we probed cross-talk between cAMP signaling and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/PKB pathways. Specifically, we examined the modulatory effects of cAMP on PKB activity by monitoring the specific roles that Epac and PKA play individually in regulating PKB activity. Our study suggests a complex regulatory scheme in which Epac and PKA mediate the opposing effects of cAMP on PKB regulation. Activation of Epac leads to a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-dependent PKB activation, while stimulation of PKA inhibits PKB activity. Furthermore, activation of PKB by Epac requires the proper subcellular targeting of Epac. The opposing effects of Epac and PKA on PKB activation provide a potential mechanism for the cell type-specific differential effects of cAMP. It is proposed that the net outcome of cAMP signaling is dependent upon the dynamic abundance and distribution of intracellular Epac and PKA.
Assessment of polychlorinated biphenyl congeners, thyroid stimulating hormone, and free thyroxine among New York State anglers.

Experimental literature suggests that polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) alter thyroid function however studies of non-occupational or acute exposures in human populations have presented equivocal results. This study considered associations between PCBs and thyroid function biomarkers in a specially selected subsample of participants from the New York State Angler Cohort Study, with the goal of hypotheses generation. Between 1995 and 1997, 38 subjects donated a blood specimen and completed a questionnaire. Sera were analyzed for 77 PCB congeners, beta-HCH, DDE, HCB, mirex, oxychlordane, and trans-nonachlor using GC-ECD, as well as for lipids components, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT(4)). A priori, the sum of all 77 measured PCB congeners, 27 individual PCB congeners with literature evidence for thyroid effects, their sum, DDE, and HCB were chosen as potential predictors for thyroid function. Age, body mass index, cigarette smoking, gender, and use of thyroid relevant medications were considered as important covariates. Adjusted for log total serum lipids, significant (P<0.05) bivariate correlations were demonstrated for log PCB IUPAC #s 153 (r=0.33), 170 (r=0.38), 171+156 (r=0.36), and 180 (r=0.35) with FT(4); however none were observed for log TSH. Using a forward stepwise selection procedure and confounder evaluation algorithm, log PCB #170 was a significant positive predictor of serum FT(4) (beta=1.55 95%CI 0.04-3.07), adjusted for mean centered log PCB #187 and log serum total lipids. This association may be explained by competitive binding to serum thyroid binding proteins by PCB #170, its hydroxylated metabolite 4'-OH-PCB172, or other related but unconsidered compounds. However, bias due to the use of a competitive analog assay for free hormone measurement, random error, or uncontrolled confounding cannot be excluded. The results of this study suggest that Lake Ontario sportfish consumers may comprise a high risk population for PCB related thyroid function alteration and warrant a larger confirmatory investigation.
Accuracy of Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) in Administrative Data

This article evaluates the accuracy of reporting do not resuscitate (DNR) orders in administrative data for use in risk-adjusted hospital assessments. We compared DNR reporting by 48 California hospitals in 2005 patient discharge data (PDD) with gold-standard assessments made by registered nurses (RNs) who reabstracted 1,673 records of patients with myocardial infarction, pneumonia, or heart failure. The PDD agreed with the RN reabstraction in 1,411 (84.3%) cases. The administrative data did not reflect a DNR order in 71 of 512 records where the RN indicated there was (14% false negative rates), and reflected a DNR order in 191 of 1,161 records where the RN indicated there was not (16% false positive rate). The accuracy of DNR was more problematic for patients who died, suggesting that hospital-reported DNR is problematic for capturing patient preferences for resuscitation that can be used for risk-adjusted outcomes assessments.
An algebra for evaluating hedge portfolios

Abstract This paper introduces a new tool, an ‘algebra’, for analyzing hedge portfolios. A hedge portfolio is defined as comprising PL- (for ‘piecewise linear’) options. The PL-option serves as a unifying concept for describing long and short positions in an unlying security and various options on that security. Additionally, piecewise linear taxes, margin requirements, transactions costs, etc., are all easily incorporated into the PL-option framework. A key result in this integrated treatment of hedge portfolios is the generation of necessary and sufficient rational option pricing theorems. Other applications of the algebra include the topics of option valuation, mean-variance analysis, and options-on-options.
Comparison of Raw and Internet protocols in a HIPPI/ATM/SONET based gigabit network

We compare implementation of Raw and Internet protocols (TCP, UDP) on a programmable HIPPI host-interface called the Network Interface Unit. The network interface unit connects Pixel-Planes 5, a message-based graphics multicomputer, to a wide area gigabit network called VISTAnet. The BISDN network consists of a SONET cross-connect switch and an ATM switch. We discuss the tradeoffs between protocols for our target application and present a comparison of end-to-end throughput based on empirical measurements.
Singular Value Decomposition For Image Coding

The numerical algorithm known as singular value decomposition [1] has been applied to image processing with interesting consequences [2 ]. Initially the algorithm was used to effect a pseudoinverse restoration [3 ] for better object estimation from degraded imagery. However the singular value decomposition (SVD) technique can also be effectively utilized in image compression problems when large compression ratios are desired. This Abstract refers to some experimental work developed at The Aerospace Corporation in which imagery has been compressed using SVD methods. Pictorial and computational results indicate that 8 bit imagery can be compressed to 2 bits with 0. 5% mean square error while the same imagery can be compressed to 1/2 bit with 1. 5% mean square error. These results will be presented along with various algorithms which make use of the SVD domain of an image for subsequent image compaction.© (1975) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Prediction of processing maps for transient liquid phase diffusion bonding of Cu/Sn/Cu joints in microelectronics packaging

Abstract This work addresses the microstructure evolution during transient liquid phase bonding (TLP) of high-density (small volume) interconnects, which are relevant for 3D packaging in the microelectronics industry. Specifically, the intermetallic compound (IMC) growth in the Cu/Sn/Cu sandwiched soldering joint configuration is characterized through predicted processing maps. These maps are derived from phase-field modeling simulations that incrementally vary geometrical and thermal conditions (i.e., initial solder thicknesses ranging from 4 μm to 28 μm and system temperatures ranging from T = 240 °C to 310 °C). The calculations consider the concurrent evolution of the Cu3Sn and Cu6Sn5 IMC layers at the expense of the liquid solder (i.e., Sn) and the substrates (i.e., α -Cu) given their respective chemical potentials and associated driving forces for diffusion and phase transformation. Additionally, materials properties (e.g., diffusivity, interfacial energy, and mobility) are adjusted in order to account for varying processing temperatures that are relevant to the transient liquid phase (TLP) joining process. Through this study, it is shown how temperature, initial liquid solder thickness, and hold time influence (1) how the IMC phases evolve, (2) whether or not IMC phases are eliminated, and (3) how IMC grains coarsen. These results make it possible to develop practical strategies for the use of TLP joining process in high-density interconnects.
Phospholipase activity in Musca domestica L.

Abstract 1. 1. Enzymes similar to mammalian phospholipases A and B are present in several subcellular fractions prepared from the house fly, Musca domestica , and the blow fly, Phormia regina . 2. 2. In the house fly phospholipase A activity depends on calcium ion concentration and both phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine are hydrolyzed. 3. 3. In both insects the phospholipase A activity in the supernatant and microsomes in higher than that in the mitochondria. 4. 4. House fly supernatant phospholipase A activity shows a pH optimum of 6·4 with phosphatidylcholine as the substrate and 7·3 with phosphatidylethanolamine. The K m is 0·225 × 10 −3 molar phosphatidylethanolamine. 5. 5. House fly phospholipase B activity, highest in mitochondria, can also be detected in the microsomal fraction. The deacylation of lysophosphatidylcholine is unaffected by calcium ions while the deacylation of lysophosphatidylethanolamine is inhibited.
Retinoic acid inhibits IL-1-induced IL-6 synthesis in epithelial cells

The regulation of interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression by IL-1 and retinoic acid (RA) was studied in the human epidermoid carcinoma cell line, HEp-2. IL-6 synthesis in HEp-2 cells was induced by IL-1, phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) and calcium ionophore, A23187, but not by dibutyryl-cAMP. RA at 10 mol/L almost completely inhibited IL-1-induced IL-6 production in HEp-2 cells and was less effective in inhibiting the effects of PMA and A23187. Maximal inhibitory effects of RA were observed after 3 days preincubation. To characterize mechanisms involved with the RA effects, we analysed the DNA binding proteins, AP-1, a known target for RA, as well as nuclear factor (NF) IL-6, and NF kB which are involved with the induction of IL-6. Nuclear extracts of HEp-2 cells showed that IL-1 increased only NF kB binding activity and did not change the levels of constitutively expressed AP-1 and NF IL-6. RA did not affect the IL-1-mediated increase in NF kB nor the constitutive levels of AP-1 and NF IL-6 under conditions where it effectively inhibited IL-1-induced IL-6 expression. This demonstrates that RA does not inhibit IL-6 induction via downregulation of IL-1 receptors or inhibition of IL-1 signal transduction pathways. RA might act by inducing other inhibitory factors or by blocking other not yet identified factors essential for IL-1-induced IL-6 synthesis.
Growth and characterization of direct mid-IR laser materials (Invited Paper)

Rare earth doped ternary lead salts are being studied for use as mid-IR laser materials. We summarize progress at the Naval Research Labs on the production and evaluation of this important class of solid-state laser.
Chemical derivatization of electrode surfaces with derivatives of N,N,N′,N′-tetraalkyl-1,4-benzenediamine

Abstract Two N,N,N′,N′ -tetraalkyl-1,4-benzenediamine surface derivatizing reagents have been synthesized and used to derivatize Au, Pt, SnO 2 , and n-Si electrodes. The two new reagents are N,N -dimethyl- N′ -ethyl- N′ -(trimethoxysilyl-4-butyl)-1,4-benzenediamine (I) and N,N,N′,N′ -tetrakis-(trimethoxysilyl-3-propyl)-1,4-benzenediamine (II). Either reagent can be used to modify electrode surfaces with greater than monolayer quantities (>10 −8 mol/cm 2 ) of electroactive material that has redox behavior consistent with a surface-bound N,N,N′,N′ -tetraalkyl-1,4-benzenediamine derivative. Oxidation of the surface-bound material from I or II occurs chemically reversibly at ca. +0.1 V vs. SCE in MeOH or CH 3 CN electrolyte solution and the oxidation is accompanied by large visible spectral changes studied quantitatively using derivatized, optically transparent SnO 2 electrodes. The visible spectral changes are similar to those found for the solution species I and II upon oxidation in terms of molar absorptivity (∈≈12,000 M −1 cm −1 ) and absorption maxima (ca. 620, 580, and 530 nm). The redox potentials, E o′ , for the surface-bound reagents are within 100 mV of the solution species. Additionally, the E o′ for the surface-bound materials in aqueous media are pH dependent as for solution species; at pH=7, the E o′ =+0.04V vs. SCE. Derivatized electrodes are fairly rugged in MeOH, CH 3 CN, or H 2 O electrolyte solutions, provided potentials negative of that necessary to effect the second oxidation are employed; the second oxidation is observed at ca. +0.7 V vs. SCE in CH 3 CN electrolyte solution for either surface-bound or solution redox material. The two-electron oxidized species is very hydrolytically unstable. Electrodes modified with I or II show improved voltammetric response to horse heart ferri-and ferrocytochrome c, E o′ =+0.02 V vs. SCE, at pH=7 compared to the naked electrodes, consistent with the expectation that the surface-bound form of I or II should be a redox mediator for such a biological reagent. Also, derivatized electrodes show improved response for the oxidation of ascorbic acid; the rate constant for oxidation of ascorbic acid by the one-electron oxidized species on the electrode is ca. 10 2 M −1 s −1 . Unfortunately, the derivatized the electrodes do not seem sufficiently durable to be useful in long term practical applications.
Oil, Domestic Politics, and International Conflict

Abstract Oil politics is a major force in global and domestic politics, especially in developing countries. Oil income makes oil-producing “petrostates” vulnerable to the resource curse, the symptoms of which include pervasive corruption, wasted public spending, volatile economic growth, and more frequent civil wars and domestic conflict. Yet while common tendencies are observable among the group of petrostates, there are also important and systematic differences among them. States that are petro-revolutionary – having both oil income and a revolutionary leader – tend to instigate conflicts at a rate three and a half times that of a comparable “typical” state (one without oil or a revolutionary leader). Indeed, the tendency of petrostates to get into international conflicts cannot be explained without disaggregating the group. This research thus emphasizes the point that oil does not have a single, monolithic effect, but rather it interacts with domestic politics in a complex way.
Viscosity of a one-component polarizable fluid.

The viscosity of a one-component polarizable fluid in an electric field is studied by computer simulations. The fluid viscosity increases with the field through three stages. In a weak field, the fluid remains Newtonian, although its viscosity increases. At this stage, while drifting in the flow direction, particles diffuse in the direction perpendicular to the flow. In an intermediate electric field, the fluid has tilted and broken chains moving with the flow and the fluid becomes non-Newtonian. The viscosity \ensuremath{\eta} and the shear rate \ensuremath{\gamma}\ifmmode \dot{}\else \.{}\fi{} have the relationship \ensuremath{\eta}=${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\eta}}}_{0}$${\mathit{e}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\ensuremath{\gamma}\mathrm{\ifmmode \dot{}\else \.{}\fi{}}\mathrm{\ensuremath{\tau}}}$, where \ensuremath{\tau} is the relaxation time and ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\eta}}}_{0}$ is exponentially proportional to the dipolar interaction energy and the volume fraction. In a strong electric field, the fluid contains condensed chains that provide yield stress and hysteresis.
Why so little progress in therapeutic thrombolysis? The current state of the art and prospects for improvement

Thrombosis is a major contributor to disability and mortality worldwide and is estimated to be the cause of one in four deaths [1]. It is the pathology responsible for triggering acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and ischemic stroke, and is the primary cause of venous thromboembolism. The pathogenesis has been well-studied starting with Virchow more than 150 years ago [2], and its prevention by anti-thrombotic drugs has made much progress, culminating most recently in the approval of new oral anticoagulants which are specific inhibitors of thrombin or factor Xa. By contrast, treatment by thrombolysis, the only pharmacological means available, has remained at a near standstill since Genentech first applied for FDA approval of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in 1983. A replacement for streptokinase (SK) had been long-sought, but after early successes in AMI, tPA use has since been on the decline. Instead, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has become the treatment of choice in AMI, despite its technical, time-consuming, and costly demands. Pre-treatment with tPA to hasten coronary reperfusion, so-called facilitated PCI, was found to increase PCI complications including intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) making the two incompatible [3]. In ischemic stroke, tPA has been estimated to be used in only 2–5 % of patients over-all [4], and in pulmonary embolism, bleeding and stroke complications limited its use to the minority of patients with hemodynamic decompensation [5]. The recent trend in stroke has also begun to favor the use of endovascular devices with three major trials in ischemic stroke published in the first 2 months of 2015 in the NEJM [6–8]. In this same period, a clinical trial of catheter-directed ultrasound was also published which showed a significant acceleration of the thrombolysis rate by this method [9]. These device reperfusion techniques require bringing the patient to a qualified facility which inevitably consumes precious time for conditions in which “minutes are myocardium or neurons.” An optimal treatment for these time-sensitive conditions can only be one that can be brought to the patient and is easily and safely administered. The resort to alternative methods is a reflection on the inadequacy of current thrombolysis, a problem that was foretold by the results with tPA in major clinical trials.
Physiological and biochemical markers of the endothelial cell response to irradiation.

(1991). Physiological and Biochemical Markers of the Endothelial Cell Response to Irradiation. International Journal of Radiation Biology: Vol. 60, No. 1-2, pp. 29-32.
Fluoxetine's effects on ethanol's rewarding, aversive and stimulus properties.

Abstract These experiments examined the influence of fluoxetine on ethanol-induced conditioned place preference, ethanol-induced conditioned taste aversion, and ethanol discrimination. In the place conditioning experiment, male Swiss-Webster mice received 4 pairings of a distinctive floor cue with 2 g kg ethanol, 10 mg kg fluoxetine + ethanol, or fluoxetine alone. A different floor was paired with saline. During conditioning ethanol produced locomotor stimulation. Fluoxetine + ethanol resulted in greater levels of locomotor activity during conditioning trials 2–4. Fluoxetine alone also caused increases in activity. Floor preference testing revealed conditioned place preference in groups receiving ethanol. Fluoxetine did not change the magnitude of ethanol-induced conditioned place preference nor produced place conditioning alone. In the taste conditioning procedure, mice received 1-h access to 0.2 M NaCl solution followed by injections of 0, 5 or 10 mg kg fluoxetine and 0 or 2.5 mg kg ethanol. Ethanol produced reductions in NaCl intake. Fluoxetine (10 mg kg ) enhanced the development of ethanol-conditioned taste aversion but did not cause taste aversion alone. In the ethanol discrimination experiment, mice were trained to respond for 10% sucrose on an FR20 schedule following injections of either 1 g kg ethanol or saline. Following acquisition, 10 mg kg fluoxetine pretreatment enhanced ethanol-appropriate responding at a dose of ethanol (0.5 g kg ) below the training dose. These results indicate enhancement of serotonergic activity influences ethanol aversion and discrimination but not ethanol reward.
Synthesis and Properties of New Thermoplastic Polymers from Substituted 3,4-Dihydro-2H-1,3-benzoxazines

With phosphorus pentachloride (PCl5) as a cationic initiator, new benzoxazine-based semicrystalline and amorphous thermoplastics with significant molecular weights have been synthesized for the fir...
Lower expression level of two RAGE alternative splicing isoforms in Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract Alternative splicing (AS) is a common phenomenon in gene expression of eukaryotic organisms, especially in mammals, producing multiple gene isoforms from a single gene that involve in physiological and pathological processes. Receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) has multiple AS isoforms with significant tissue and organism specificity. RAGE signaling has been reported involved in the onset and development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and the roles of RAGE AS isoforms have not yet been fully illustrated in AD pathogenesis. In the present study, two of RAGE AS isoforms (RAGEΔ and sRAGEΔ) were investigated in the human brain specimens from AD and age-matched control subjects. The expression of these isoforms was found brain-region specific, and significant lower expression levels of both RAGEΔ and sRAGEΔ were detected in multiple brain regions of AD subjects than control subjects. Data indicated tight association between the AS isoforms (RAGEΔ and sRAGEΔ) and neurodegeneration. An antagonistic pairing model has been suggested to explain the working mechanism of AS isoforms on gene regulation and pathological development.
Photoionization of Tetraphenylporphyrin in Mesoporous SiMCM-48, AlMCM-48, and TiMCM-48 Molecular Sieves

Electron spin resonance spectroscopy has been used to detect the photoionization yield of meso-tetraphenylporphyrin (H2TPP) in SiMCM-48, AlMCM-48, and TiMCM-48 mesoporous molecular sieves. MCM-48 materials are shown to be effective heterogeneous hosts to accomplish long-lived photoinduced electron transfer of bulky porphyrin molecules at room temperature. TiMCM-48 and AlMCM-48 have higher photoyields of H2TPP+ radicals than does SiMCM-48, indicating that the incorporation of Al and Ti into MCM-48 frameworks enhances the electron-accepting ability of the framework. H2TPP+ radicals are more stable in TiMCM-48 than in SiMCM-48 and AlMCM-48.
GLASS TRANSITION MEASUREMENTS OF ASPHALTS BY DSC

The glass transition temperature (Tg), measured by Modulated Differential Scanning Calorimetry (MDSC), is related to the flow characteristics of asphalt at low temperatures as is the rate of change of the creep stiffnessm. This study compared the glass transition temperature of different asphalts (neat, chemically modified, and crumb rubber modified asphalts) with the creep stiffness, the rate of change of creep stiffness, and the low specification temperature of the continuous PG grading of those asphalts. From the rheological data (BBR) and the thermal data (MDSC) for the virgin and the modified asphalts, the modified products had the same variations of values ofm, S, and Tg at lower temperatures as those of their corresponding virgin asphalts. A correlation between the Tg andm value was observed for both the modified and unmodified asphalts. Since DSC measurements for asphalt low temperature properties use less operator time, less sample, and have less measurement and operator error than rheological methods, Tg has promise to be considered as a fast and easy laboratory method to obtain the low temperature useful range of asphalts in pavements.
Advanced image composition with intra-frame drift correction

Although drift-corrected image acquisition (DCIC) reduces the drift-related blur and distortions significantly, frames may still be slightly suffer from these distortions. When the SCPM frames are taken quickly and frequently, it is possible to compensate for the drift-related displacements of the frame pixels. However, in order to be able to use this technique, it is necessary to find all dead times, e.a. times between acquisitions of two neighboring pixels, lines and frames, when no signal is measured. Dead times can be discovered using variable-frequency modulated light source. Analysis of frames altered by the modulated light of multiple frequencies provides all information needed for calculation of all dead times.