cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
HowtogetaChineseName(Entity): segmentation and combination issues

When building a Chinese named entity recognition system, one must deal with certain language-specific issues such as whether the model should be based on characters or words. While there is no unique answer to this question, we discuss in detail advantages and disadvantages of each model, identify problems in segmentation and suggest possible solutions, presenting our observations, analysis, and experimental results. The second topic of this paper is classifier combination. We present and describe four classifiers for Chinese named entity recognition and describe various methods for combining their outputs. The results demonstrate that classifier combination is an effective technique of improving system performance: experiments over a large annotated corpus of fine-grained entity types exhibit a 10% relative reduction in F-measure error.
Compressive Strength of Wheat Endosperm : Comparison of Endosperm Bricks to the Single Kernel Characterization System

ABSTRACT The three major classes of endosperm texture (grain hardness) of soft and hard common, and durum wheat represent and define one of the leading determinants of the milling and end-use quality of wheat. Although these three genetic classes are directly related to the Hardness locus and puroindoline gene function, much less is known about the kernel-to-kernel variation within pure varietal grain lots. Measurement of this variation is of considerable interest. The objective of this research was to compare kernel texture as determined by compression failure testing using endosperm bricks with results of whole-kernel hardness obtained with the Single Kernel Characterization System 4100 hardness index (SKCS HI). In general terms, the variation obtained with the SKCS HI was of similar magnitude to that obtained using failure strain and failure energy of endosperm brick compression. Objective comparisons included frequency distribution plots, normalized frequency distribution plots, ANOVA model R2, and co...
Fish bioenergetics and growth in aquaculture ponds: III. Effects of intraspecific competition, stocking rate, stocking size and feeding rate on fish productivity

Abstract A simple pond environment model linking stocking rate, feeding rate and initial size distribution to environmental factors was developed. A population growth model was also developed from the individual fish model in a previous paper by including social interactions. The pond environment model was linked with the population growth model to develop a pond culture model which was parameterized with channel catfish data. The pond culture model predicted a growing season of 230 days from 10 April through 27 November for channel catfish raised in College Station, TX, U.S.A. Feeding fish as a function of appetite was superior to feeding them a fixed percentage of body weight. Under the regime of food competition among catfish, fish weights were more variable, yield was less, and the culture period to market size was longer compared with the regime of no food competition. Increasingly higher yields were produced by successively optimizing growth factors as they became limiting at certain levels of production. A factorial experiment involving stocking rate, initial size, and feeding rate was simulated using the pond culture model. The relationship of market yield to stocking rate, for any given feeding rate or initial size, was described by a downward opening parabola. Hence, an optimum stocking rate exists, where yield is maximum.
Addition of Phosphates, Proteins, and Gums to Reduced-Salt Frankfurter Batters

Reducing the added salt levels in frankfurter batters from 2.5 to 1.5% decreased water binding aoilities. Gel strength was less affected and fat release least affected. Tripolyphosphate and pyrophosphate were very effective at levels of 0.1% in restoring the water binding and gel strength. The effectiveness of these phosphates was nearly identical although they have opposing effects on batter pH. Soy isolate and rennet-treated, calcium-reduced dried skim milk improved the batters when added at 1 and 3%. Additions of alginate or especially xanthan gums (0.1-0.3%) improved the water binding but were very detrimental to the gel strength.
Mesenchymal–epithelial interactions: past, present, and future

This review summarizes the history of research on mesenchymal–epithelial interactions in prostatic development from the first studies in 1970 to the present. From this study we have learned that prostatic development requires a reciprocal interaction between epithelium and mesenchyme in which urogenital sinus mesenchyme induces and patterns epithelial development and differentiation, while developing prostatic epithelium induces and patterns mesenchymal differentiation into smooth muscle and other resident cell types in the stroma. Prostatic development requires androgen action mediated by the androgen receptor (AR). Through analysis of tissue recombinants composed of wild-type and AR-null epithelium and mesenchyme, we have learned that many “androgenic effects” on prostatic epithelium do not require epithelial AR, but instead are elicited by the paracrine action of AR-positive mesenchyme. Present and future studies reviewed in this issue deal with the molecular mechanisms in this developmental communication between epithelium and mesenchyme.
Instrumental neutron activation analysis of pottery from the George C. Davis (41CE19) site, Texas

The George C. Davis Site (41CE19) in central East Texas holds a prominent position in American archaeology. Fifty prehistoric ceramic specimens from early Caddoan contexts (A.D. 800-1200) were analyzed by instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) at the Missouri University of Missouri Research Reactor Center (MURR). The chemical compositions of the Davis ceramics were compared with previously identified Caddoan ceramic compositional groups. Early Caddoan ceramics from the Davis site likely originate from local alluvial clays in the Neches River Basin. Investigating issues of ceramic production, we conclude that clays from multiple sources and/or different ceramic recipes were used to make various Caddoan pottery types.
Generic signal processor implementation with VHSIC

This paper illustrates the relationship between clock and data rates for a variety of generic processor architectures. A significant result for signal processing is that if memory and arithmetic chips operate at the same clock rate, processor performance is constrained by the rate at which memory may be accessed. The paper presents a case study of the implementation of a typical generic signal processor, the AOSP Macro Function Signal Processor using Very High Speed Integrated Circuit (VHSIC) technology. It is shown that VHSIC technology, with high speeds and high levels of integration is well suited to the implementation of this generic signal processor.
SU‐FF‐T‐517: Dose Painting by Numbers Using Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography with Intensity‐Modulated Radiotherapy to Reduce Dose to Highly Functional Lung Region for Lung Cancer Patients

Purpose: To reduce doses to highly functional lung region for lungcancer patients by dose painting by numbers using single photon emission computed tomography with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy.Method and Materials: A non‐small‐cell lungcancer(NSCLC) patient treated in our institute was randomly selected for this study. Two cost functions (referred to Bio_function and nonBio_function) for IMRT optimization were built as research plug‐ins by incorporating and not incorporating single photon emission computed tomography(SPECT)image data of the lung into the optimization algorithm in Pinnacle treatment planning system. Two strategies were evaluated: 1) the IMRT plan with Bio_function (SPECT_Plan); 2) the IMRT plan with nonBio_function (nonSPECT_Plan). Results: The difference of prescription dose coverage of PTV between the two plans was within 1%. Compared to the nonSPECT_Plan, the SPECT_Plan had −0.6 Gy difference of maximum dose for the spinal cord, −1.2% of V55 for the esophagus, 1.0% of V50 for the heart, −2.8%, −3.5%, −3.4%, and −2.8% for V5, V10, V20, and V30 of the total lung, respectively. The mean doses to highly functional lung regions F50 and F90 (defined as the lung regions with perfusion levels above 50 and 90 percent of the maximum perfusion level in the lung, respectively) were reduced by 2.6 Gy and 3.1 Gy in the SPECT_Plan compared to those in the nonSPECT_Plan, respectively. V5, V10, V20, and V30 for F50 lung were reduced by 4.1%, 5.9%, 6.0%, and 5.4%, and by 5.4%, 9.3%, 5.7%, and 7.0% for F90 lung, respectively. Conclusion:Dose painting by numbers using SPECTimage with IMRT could reduce doses to highly functional lung region for lungcancer patients, thus may improve treatment outcome.
1.5.2 Emerging Real‐Time Intelligent Agents In Space Launch Verification and Anomaly Resolution

In 1997, the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) program, now under the auspices of the United Launch Alliance (ULA), began with fundamental goals to reduce cost and improve the reliability of launching satellites and interplanetary spacecraft. With payloads costing more that several billion dollars each, the reliability of launch vehicles mandates perfect launches. Subsequently, launch systems have become highly complex with increasing launch rates of satellites to perform surveillance, network-centric command and control, and communications on the land, sea, air and space. Launch system Ground Computers, Command and Control (GC3) has grown exponentially in software capabilities, collecting and displaying data to domain experts, and transmitting real-time data to world-wide support teams. Rapid and accurate anomaly resolution with customers and contractors, especially for events leading up to day-of-launch (DOL) involves hundreds of personnel using these complex systems. This paper describes near-term capabilities which are the building blocks of future intelligent agents: decision making, knowledge management; computer systems, control software and desktop PC tools. These agents are rapidly maturing into integrated systems decision making processes that are responsive within seconds. This near-term development activity is compared with a 20-year forecast of spaceport intelligent agent systems.
Using Brief Instructional Video Clips to Foster Communication, Reflection, and Collaboration in Schools.

AbstractIn this collaborative study, university researchers introduced the short video clips of teaching and learning within two elementary schools; these clips were shared in site faculty meetings to encourage dialogue and collaboration. -Researchers conducted pre- and post-surveys with teachers and pre- and post-interviews with principals to understand perceptions of using brief video clips as a tool for facilitating communication, reflection, and collaboration in the school setting.
Infrared and Dielectric Investigation of Curing in a Polymer-Stabilized Liquid Crystal System

The results of infrared and dielectric measurements of polymer stabilized liquid crystals (PSLCs) are correlated to each other. The novel experimental design allows these two different analytical techniques to be applied simultaneously on the sample. The dielectric data (capacitance, loss) follow closely the infrared absorbance data. Infrared data can be used to follow a chemical reaction, and because these data have now been correlated to dielectric data, dielectric measurements alone can be used to follow the course of a chemical curing reaction. This will allow for easier assessment of these types of systems, removing the challenging sample preparation steps required for infrared analysis.
Equator crossing times for NOAA satellites

The local Equator Crossing Times (EXT) of all NOAA platforms have been summarized as a function of time and approximated analytically. The fit equations (superposition of two harmonic terms, with platform-specific amplitudes, frequencies, and phases) accurately reconstruct all past EXTs to within ±2 min and also allow extrapolation in time. Fit equations are summarized and used to predict the future EXT evolution. This information is important for generation of meaningful environmental and stable climate data records from data of all radiometric sensors onboard NOAA platforms.
Primary total hip arthroplasty in systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting primarily young women. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head produces significant morbidity in these patients. The clinical and radiographic results of 33 total hip arthroplasties (THA) in 25 patients were studied. The Hospital for Special Surgery hip rating was good or excellent in all surviving index primary hip arthroplasties at a median follow-up of 47 months. Overall survival probability was 94.6% at 5 years and 81.8% at 9 years using survivorship analysis. Perioperative morbidity was minimal. Total hip arthroplasty using contemporary techniques and current management protocols can provide reliable functional improvement in patients with osteonecrosis secondary to SLE.
RESPONSE TO SEXUAL FILMS AS A FUNCTION OF ANXIETY LEVEL

Summa~y.-72 subjects between the ages of 18 and 30 yr. were shown 2 sexually explicit films. 12 males and 12 females were classified as high, medium, and low in anxiety according to their scores on [he Taylor Manifest Anxiery Scale. Multiple analysis of variance showed no s~gn~f~cant differences in the sexual stimulation, thought change, or ratings of change in physical state for subjects' level of anxiety or sex. This was true for films showing one and two couples. These findings do not support an inverse relationship between anxiety and favorable response to sexually explicit films. 95% of the subjects reported some degree of sexual arousal to each film. A significant number of subjects (a) reported an increase in the pleasantness of physical state and thoughts for both films and (b) preferred the film they found to be more sexually stimulating. The positive reaction to the films provides a basis for their possible clinical use. The role of sex in response to sexually oriented visual stimuli has been investigated. Kinsey, Pomeroy, Martin, and Gebhard ( 1953) collected survey data indicating that males have a greater predisposition to arousal by external stimuli than do females. Data supporting Kinsey's hypotheses were reported by Levi ( 1969). However, some females were more responsive to the filmed sexual stimuli than any of the males on both psychological and catecholamine reactions. On both the reported sexual arousal and adrenaline excretion, the males generally reacted more than the females. Using slides, Sigusch, et al. (1970) found males were more aroused than females especially when presented with pictures of solitary figures. Schmidt and Sigusch (1970) concluded that the idea of distinct differences in arousal of males and females viewing sexual pictures and films needed revision. Slightly higher arousal of males, especially in response to depictions of more unusual heterosexual practices, was less than expected from Kinsey's data and only representative of the group. About 40% of the women reported stronger sexual arousal than did the men. Most men and women had physiosexual reactions in the genital area. Byrne and Lamberth (1970) concluded that there was no over-all sex difference in the sexual response to sexual stimuli. However, there were sex differences regarding arousal for specific themes. The main objective of the present study was to examine the self-reported psychological and physical reactions to visual sexual stimuli given by males and females of different levels of anxiety. Significant group differences representing heightened positive or negative reactions were of inreiest. Bernick, Kling, and Borowitz ( 1971 ) tried to specify physiologically the emotional states of
Electrification of railroads

ONE of the most important factors in making this country one and undivided, and tending toward greater solidarity in interest and thought has been the widespread development of transportation. This country is tremendously indebted to the courage and vision of the pioneer railroad builders in welding different sections of the country together. The Union of East and West by solid ties of steel was a magnificent achievement, rarely if ever paralleled in the history of any country.
Sex differences in cocaine/heroin users: Drug-use triggers and craving in daily life

Abstract Background Studies of sex differences have shown that men and women with drug-use disorders differ in course and outcome and in cue-induced activation of putative brain “control network” areas. We evaluated sex differences in daily functioning and subjective events related to drug use with ecological momentary assessment (EMA). Methods EMA data were collected from cocaine- and heroin-using outpatients (72 men; 42 women) in methadone maintenance in 2–5 randomly prompted (RP) entries per day and in participant-initiated entries for heroin or cocaine use or craving, for up to 25 weeks. Urine drug screens were conducted three times weekly. Data were analyzed via repeated-measures logistic regression, using sex as a predictor of responses. Results In RP reports, women and men reported significantly different patterns of drug-cue exposure, with women significantly more likely to report having seen cocaine or been tempted to use in the past hour. Women also had higher craving after past-hour exposure to drug cues. In reports of drug use, women, compared to men, were more likely to report that they had used more cocaine than they had meant to, tended to feel guilty more often after drug use, and to have used despite trying not to use. Conclusions These findings provide real-time behavioral evidence that women respond differently than men to exposure to drug cues and to drug use, consistent with laboratory and brain-imaging findings. This information may be useful for development of sex-specific treatment strategies.
The influence of hemolymph-binding protein on juvenile hormone stability and distribution in Manduca sexta fat body and imaginal discs in vitro

Abstract The wing discs and fat body of Manduca sexta larvae contain enzymes (i.e. carboxylesterase and epoxide hydratase) that can convert the C 18 juvenile hormone (JH) to the acid, diol and acid diol. No evidence of oxidative degradation was noted. In vitro studies suggest that JH can be compartmentalized within the cells of the fat body where it is less accessible to degradative mechanisms. Experiments utilizing a hemolymph-binding protein fraction (BPF) in vitro with fat body and imaginal discs indicate that the BPF retards the uptake of JH by tissues and its subsequent degradation by tissue enzymes. BPF also appears to protect JH from degradation by enzymes released into the medium. By these mechanisms the insect can maintain elevated JH titers for relatively long periods. Binding protein may also keep JH in solution in the hemolymph allowing its rapid distribution throughout the insect. The data suggest that the binding protein plays a key role in maintaining juvenile hormone titers.
Thresholding effects on the performance of the binary nonlinear joint transform correlators

We investigate the performance of the binary joint transform correlator(JTC) for three types of threshoicling used to binarize the joint power spectrum. The first method is the fixed thresholding which uses the median of the joint power spectrum of the reference image and it does not include the effect of input scene noise. The second method( called the variable thresholding) takes into account the effect of the input scene noise and is the median of the joint power spectrum of the input scene and the reference image. The third method is the segmented thresholding that takes into account the effect of the input scene noise and is computed for each segment of the joint power spectrum. The correlation performance of the binary JTC is determined for each thresholding method and is compared to the linear( conventional) JTC. Computer simulation is used to determine the correlation peak intensity, peak to sidelobe ratio, and correlation width for various thresholding techniques. The results indicate that the thresholding of the joint power spectrum using the methods that take into account the input scene noise produce reasonably good correlation performance for large input scene noise
Vestibular Schwannomas: Surgical and Nonsurgical Management

Management options of vestibular schwannomas continue to evolve as surgical, radiation, and radiologic imaging techniques and technology change and improve over time. Currently, three options for these tumors exist and include primary surgical extirpation, stereotactic radiation, and observation with serial imaging. Skull base surgeons are charged with providing the patient with a comprehensive discussion of each option based on the inherit risks and benefits of each option to craft a management plan based on numerous factors that include age, tumor location, and size, hearing level at presentation and any medical comorbidities that may influence functional outcomes and quality of life. The purpose of this article was to review the surgical and non-surgical approaches to tumor management highlighting the risks and benefits and ongoing controversies between modalities regarding optimal functional outcomes. A particular emphasis is placed on hearing preservation and facial nerve function after treatment.
Robust control techniques for general dynamic systems

Lyapunov techniques are used to design robust controllers for nonlinear systems. The objective is to use the system structure to simplify the controller as far as possible. A general robust control scheme is developed that applies to systems described by a class of second-order nonlinear equations. Applications to a mobile robot and a chemical stirred tank reactor are given.
Structure of the voltage-gated L-type Ca2+ channel by electron cryomicroscopy

Voltage-dependent L-type Ca(2+) channels play important functional roles in many excitable cells. We present a three-dimensional structure of an L-type Ca(2+) channel. Electron cryomicroscopy in conjunction with single-particle processing was used to determine a 30-A resolution structure of the channel protein. The asymmetrical channel structure consists of two major regions: a heart-shaped region connected at its widest end with a handle-shaped region. A molecular model is proposed for the arrangement of this skeletal muscle L-type Ca(2+) channel structure with respect to the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-release channel, the physical partner of the L-type channel for signal transduction during the excitation-contraction coupling in muscle.
The variable roentgenographic appearance of idiopathic histiocytosis

The radiographic, histologic and clinical manifestations in 36 cases of idiopathic histiocytosis are reviewed. The observed radiographic features include marginal sclerosis in lytic lesions, localized expansion of bone, sequestrum formation, and mediastinal and hilar lymph node involvement. Poorly marginated lesions seem to be associated with the clinical and pathologic picture of Letterer-Siwe disease.
Thermogenic gas hydrates and hydrocarbon gases in complex chemosynthetic communities, Gulf of Mexico continental slope

Abstract Where abundant at the sea floor, thermogenic gas hydrates impact bacterially-mediated processes in chemosynthetic communities dependent on methane and H2S. Our main gas hydrate sites are at ∼540 m water depth and relatively low temperature (∼7°C). Gas hydrates outcrop as vein-fillings in hemipelagic muds near gas vents within chemosynthetic communities. Molecular and isotopic properties of hydrate-forming C1–C5 hydrocarbons and CO2 provide insight to bacterially-mediated processes. Hydrate-bound methane is altered by bacterial oxidation, as indicated by enrichment of 13C and deuterium (D), and by CO2 depleted in 13C. The degree of gas hydrate alteration appears related to duration of exposure at the sea floor. In hydrate-associated sediments, bacterial oxidation of a mixed pool of hydrocarbons yields a net production of CO2 depleted in 13C. Bacterial oxidation of hydrate-bound methane and free hydrocarbon gases in adjacent sediments could contribute to gas hydrate decomposition. Some thermogenic carbon in sediments could be recycled via methanogenesis to yield a net production of bacterial methane depleted in 13C. Our results strengthen the hypothesis that gas hydrates could favor life in other extreme environments at low temperatures.
Dynamic Consolidation of Metal Powders.

Abstract A brief review and assessment of the dynamic consolidation of metal powders is presented. Primary emphasis is placed on demonstrating the relationship between the shock-wave physics during consolidation and the initial and final metallurgical states of the compact. Some of the technological aspects of the process are also discussed.
Role of Microstructural Properties in the Time-Dependent Sorption/Desorption Behavior of 1,2-Dichloroethane on Humic Substances

This represents the second phase in our efforts to develop a molecular level understanding of sorption/desorption processes at soil surfaces contributing to prolonged retention of nonpolar organic chemicals. Applying techniques developed with clay minerals, the processes are followed in situ from both kinetic and mechanistic perspectives using controlled environment diffuse reflectance infrared spectroscopy in conjunction with chemicals that exhibit isomerization properties. The rapid accumulation and ease of desorption of the first sorbed species detected as vapor phase chemical flows through humic sorbents is consistent with macroscopic partitioning behavior: its conformer populations are in accord with the nonpolar nature of humic substances. A band for a second species, detected only after several hours of sorption, increases in intensity during the sorption phase of the experiment and continues to increase even after days of desorption. Both of these species appear to be in the vapor state, consiste...
STUDIES OF HAWAIIAN FRESHWATER AND SOIL ALGAE II. ALGAL COLONIZATION AND SUCCESSION ON A DATED VOLCANIC SUBSTRATE1,2

Spatial studies of colonization and succession of soil algae and chemical analyses of the various soils on the cinde cone of Kilauea Iki in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii are outlined. There is a positive correlation between the diversity and quantity of soil algae with nutrient levels and organic matter accumulation in each locale. Three distinct edaphic-biotic zones existing in this area are differentially revealed by the soil chemical composition, quantity and diversity of soil algae, and as evident variations in higher plant growth and colonization. Varying colonization and successional phases of higher plant growth around standing and fallen tree snags killed by volcanic activity also reflect variations in the soil algal flora. These variations appear largely as a function of differential water interception, absorption, and retention as well as differential accumulation of organic matter, and the initiation of various biogeochemical cycles.
Improved reliability of wind turbine towers with tuned liquid column dampers (TLCDs)

Abstract Modern wind turbines are supported by slender, flexible and lightly damped tall towers, which exhibit high susceptibility to wind-induced vibrations. This paper develops a framework that combines efficient dynamic response models and probabilistic assessment tools to show how to structural response and improve structural reliability when equipping modern turbines with tuned liquid column dampers (TLCDs). This study improves a dynamic model of a wind turbine to accommodate single or multiple TLCDs to control excessive vibrations. The model is subjected to stochastically generated wind loads of varying speeds to develop wind-induced probabilistic demand models for towers of modern turbines under structural uncertainty. Results indicate that a baseline TLCD with 1% of the total wind turbine mass achieves up to 47% reduction in peak displacements. Furthermore, the study constructs fragility curves, which illustrate reductions in the vulnerability of towers to wind forces owing to the inclusion of the damper. Annual failure probabilities computed based on the likelihood of wind speed realizations in West Texas and West California, U.S. demonstrate reliability gains of up to 8% using the baseline TLCD. This paper also observes that the use of two TLCDs with a total mass ratio of 1.5% yields marginal benefits over the baseline TLCD gains. Rather, increasing the mass of the baseline TLCD to 1.5% of the turbine mass reduces peak responses by 53% and the annual failure probability by as much as 11%. These results suggest a viable alternative to help achieving long-term reliability and risk targets for utility scale wind turbines.
Physical attractiveness as a status cue

Abstract On the basis of a review of attractiveness stereotype research as well as sociological theory and research on status concepts, it was hypothesized that physical attractiveness produces stereotyped status inferences along with the stereotyped trait inferences that have already been given much research attention. This hypothesis was tested by a series of four studies. In the first three studies, subjects matched yearbook photographs with stimulus photo descriptions representing high achieved, high ascribed, low achieved, and low ascribed status. More attractive photos were matched with the high status than with the low status descriptions, and this finding was stronger for ascribed status than for achieved status. Subjects consistently tended to associate the high ascribed status descriptions with the most attractive photos. In the fourth study, subjects responded to the photos in the stimulus set with separate assessments of how likely each person was to earn or inherit a high station in life. Photo attractiveness was found to be weakly correlated with assessments of earned life station, and strongly correlated with assessments of inherited life station. Taken together, these findings suggest that physical attractiveness is a status cue-and in particular an ascribed status cue. A number of previous studies from the physical attractiveness literature are briefly reviewed, and the notion of status inferences in proposed as helping to account for the findings.
Identification of positive and negative transcriptional regulatory elements of the rabbit angiotensin-converting enzyme gene

The two tissue-specific mRNAs encoding the isozymes of rabbit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) are generated from the same gene by alternative choice of two transcription initiation sites 5.7 kb apart. In the current study, we have characterized the regulatory sites controlling the transcription of the larger pulmonary isozyme mRNA. For this purpose, reporter genes driven by varying lengths of upstream region of the ACE gene were transfected into ACE-producing cells. Our results demonstrated that the transcription of this gene is primarily driven by positive elements within the first 274 bp DNA upstream of the transcription initiation site. The reporter gene driven by this region was expressed in two ACE-producing cells but not in two ACE-non-producing cells thereby establishing its tissue specificity. Our experiments also revealed the existence of a strong negative element located between -692 and -610 positions. This element suppressed the expression of the reporter gene in a dose-dependent and position and orientation-independent fashion thus suggesting that it is a true silencer element. It could also repress the expression of a reporter gene driven by the heterologous strong promoter of the beta-actin gene. The repressing effects of the negative element could be partially overcome by cotransfecting the isolated negative element along with the reporter gene containing the negative element. This result was possibly due to the functional removal of a limiting trans-acting factor which binds to this element. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays revealed that the negative element can form several complexes with proteins present in the nuclear extract of an ACE-producing cell line. At least part of the negative element is strongly conserved in the upstream regions of the human and mouse ACE genes.
Attacking the damage identification problem

A review of the evolution of the field of damage identification is presented. Trends of research and the present state of the field are discussed and directions of future research are postulated. Ideally, an automated damage identification method incorporated into the smart structure scheme would be able to detect damage as it is incurred by the structure, determine the location and extent of the damage, predict when and if catastrophic failure of the structure will occur, and alert the operator as to how the performance of the structure is affected in order for appropriate steps to be made to remedy the situation. Obviously, this is no easy task but it is essential that it is clearly defined how the research fits into the ultimate goal of developing an automated, noninvasive damage identification method. In attempting to quantify changes in response characteristics due to damage on a structure, it is very important to be aware of the inherent variabilities one might encounter in acquiring these response characteristics. These variabilities may come from computational algorithms, sensor error, or environmental effects. A method which assumes a priori ignorance to the manifestations of damage in the response characteristics of the structure is presented. This method uses inductive learning to statistically isolate changes in response characteristics due to damage from those due to the inherent variabilities. In order to validate the method, an example is presented which identifies the existence and location of a small test mass on an aluminum plate via the measurement of the structural impedance-response of the plate.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Simplicity and reality in computational modeling of politics

Modeling a polity based on viable scientific concepts and theoretical understanding has been a challenge in computational social science and social simulation in general and political science in particular. This paper presents a computational model of a polity (political system) in progressive versions from simple to more realistic. The model, called SimPol to highlight the fundamental structures and processes of politics in a generic society, is developed using the combined methodologies of object-based modeling (OOM), the Unified Modeling Language (UML), and the methodology of Lakatos’ research programs. SimPol demonstrates that computational models of entire political systems are methodologically feasible and scientifically viable; they can also build on and progress beyond previous theory and research to advance our understanding of how polities operate across a variety of domains (simple vs. complex) and levels of analysis (local, national, international). Both simple and realistic models are necessary, for theoretical and empirical purposes, respectively.
Calibration of biosensor response using simultaneous evanescent wave excitation of cyanine-labeled capture antibodies and antigens.

Abstract Fiber optic biosensors have proven their ability to detect antigens rapidly in a variety of environmental and clinical samples. These biosensors are based on the technique of covalently linking antibodies to the core of an optical fiber and detecting antigen binding via measurement of fluorescence induced in the evanescent wave. One problem associated with these biosensors is the fiber-to-fiber variability in measured signal. We have addressed this problem by labeling a portion of the immobilized capture antibody with the fluorescent cyanine dye Cy5.5 (emission λmax= 696 nm). The antigen was then labeled with fluorescent Cy5 (emission λmax= 668 nm). Both fluorophores were excited by 635-nm light, and their emission was collected using both a fiber optic spectrometer and a biosensor optimized to collect fluorescence at two wavelengths. The fluorescence from the Cy5.5-labeled capture antibody served as a calibration signal for each fiber and corrected for differences in optics, fiber defects, and varying amounts of capture antibody present on the fiber. Our data show that normalizing the signal measured from Cy5-labeled antigen binding to the Cy5.5 signal provides a standardization process for greatly reducing signal variance among individual fibers.
Effects of a chelating agent - 2,4-pentanedione on low temperature composite molding of vinyl ester and unsaturated polyester resins

A major concern in low temperature composite manufacturing processes is how to design and control the mold filling and curing time. Inhibitors or retarders are often used to prevent premature gelation and provide a sufficiently long time to fill the mold completely. However, the addition of these chemical species tends to result in a low mold curing rate and a low final resin conversion. In this study, a chelating agent 2,4-pentanedione (2,4-P) was used to manipulate resin gelation and curing. This agent is known to affect the catalytic activity of the promoters (i.e. metal compounds such as cobalt carboxylates) in the decomposition of initiators. It can function as either a retarder or a co-promoter in the co-polymerization of styrene/polyester and styrene/vinyl ester resins depending on the acidity of the resin system. Based on this observation, an improved room temperature vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding process was designed. This design allows 2,4-P to serve first as a retarder during mold filling to achieve a long gel time, it then as a co-promoter during curing to increase the curing rate. The 2,4-P also increases the resin conversion as the acidity of the resin increases.
Optimization model for sustainable materials selection using objective and subjective factors

Abstract Materials selection is an area where designers can have a significant impact on the sustainable performance of a building. Objective factors such as cost constraints, design considerations, and environmental requirements can play a role in the selection of materials. However, there may be subjective factors that could also impact the selection and affect the achievement of sustainability goals. In order to help decision makers with the selection of appropriate materials, this study proposes a mixed integer optimization model that considers objective and subjective factors. Design, budget, and the number of points achieved under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) account for objective factors while subjective factors comprehend user-based perceptions. An instrument further validated through a factor analysis approach is developed to measure perceptions of product sustainability in an attempt to capture subjective factors. To illustrate how objective and subjective factors influence decision making, this paper presents two cases of a building in which materials are selected using the optimization model proposed.
Parameter identification techniques for the estimation of damping in flexible structure experiments

We report on our use of spline based inverse procedures to estimate damping coefficients in distributed parameter systems for flexible structures. Damping models involving viscous (air) damping and Kelvin-Voigt damping in an Euler-Bernoulli framework are used to analyze data from vibration experiments with composite material beams.
Improvement of target and critical structure doses in Corvus IMRT treatment plans

The NOMOS MIMIC unit delivers radiation in a tomographic fashion, one arc at a time. Each arc radiates two slices. The slice thickness is determined by the beamlet width: 0.85 cm in the 1 cm MIMIC mode and 1.7 cm in the 2 cm mode. The resolution of beam intensity modulation in the direction of couch motion is defined by the beamlet width. A systematic study of targets of various lengths showed that the dose coverage is a cyclical function of target length. The target dose heterogeneity index (h=Dmax./Dmin.) periodically varied from 1.1 to 1.3 as target length was increased, The period of this function was approximately equal to the beamlet width. Corvus positions treatment arcs symmetrically with respect to the target length. Thus for certain length targets, the ends of target may fall in the beamlet penumbra region thereby reducing target minimum dose. In addition, when a critical structure is located adjacent to a target, the same beamlet bank may irradiate both target and critical structure. This leads to an overdosing of the critical structure and an underdosing of the target. However, small modifications in the target representation (a slight increase in PTV or the addition of a distant pseudo target) can be made to cause a shift in are positions. When the treatment arcs are shifted such that the target is positioned outside the penumbra region and no beamlet bank radiates both target and critical structure, a better target dose distribution and sparing of critical structure is achieved.
The National News Media’s Effect on Congress: How Fox News Affected Elites in Congress

Despite the prominence of the national news media, it is unclear whether elected officials are affected by the national news media in policy-consequential ways because of the difficulty of disentangling the influence of the media on Congress from Congress’s influence on the media. We use a unique opportunity to determine whether position-taking behavior in Congress and the likelihood of reelection is affected by the national news media. Using the fact that the Fox News Channel spread gradually across the United States after being launched in October of 1996 in ways unrelated to the ideology of congressional districts and the incumbent representatives, we show that representatives become less supportive of President Clinton in districts where Fox News begins broadcasting than similar representatives in similar districts where Fox News was not broadcast. Moreover, the effects took a few years to be realized, and the entry of Fox News in a district did not appear to affect which representatives were reelecte...
Monoclonal IgM antiphosphatidylserine antibody reacts against cytoskeleton-like structures in cultured human umbilical cord endothelial cells.

PROBLEM: It has been proposed that antibodies against phospholipid-dependent antigens (aPLs), induce recurrent pregnancy loss and thrombosis through modulation of endothelial cell function, yet aPLs have not been conclusively shown to bind with endothelial cells. METHOD: Using indirect immunofluorescence we investigated the anti-endothelial cell reactivity of three monoclonal antibodies that differentiate between the phospholipids cardiolipin (CL) and phosphatidylserine (PS): BA3B5C4 (CL+/PS+); 3SB9b (CL-/PS+); and D11A4 (CL+PS-). Cultured umbilical cord endothelial cells were prepared without fixation or with cold acetone fixation. RESULTS: None of the aPLs reacted with endothelial cells prepared without fixation. 3SB9B reacted strongly with cytoskeletal-like components in acetone-fixed cells, whereas BA3B5C4 and D11A4 were unreactive. The cytoskeletal-like binding of 3SB9b was completely blocked by a monoclonal antibody against vimentin, whereas antibodies against tubulin or actin were not inhibitory. Lipid extractiob of the cells destroyed the 3SB9b reactive antigen without affecting the reactivity of anti-vimentin. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that phospholipid-dependent antigenic determinants are not expressed on the surface of resting endothelial cells but that a PS-dependent antigenic determinant is associated with endothelial cell intermediate filaments
Metabolic repression of transcription in higher plants.

Using freshly isolated maize mesophyll protoplasts and a transient expression method, I showed that the transcriptional activity of seven maize photosynthetic gene promoters is specifically and coordinately repressed by the photosynthetic end products sucrose and glucose and by the exogenous carbon source acetate. Analysis of deleted, mutated, and hybrid promoters showed that sugars and acetate inhibit the activity of distinct positive upstream regulatory elements without a common consensus. The metabolic repression of photosynthetic genes overrides other forms of regulation, e.g., light, tissue type, and developmental stage. Repression by sugars and repression by acetate are mediated by different mechanisms. The identification of conditions that avoid sugar repression overcomes a major obstacle to the study of photosynthetic gene regulation in higher plants.
Continuous-Wave Electrically Pumped 1.55- $\mu$ m Edge-Emitting Platelet Ridge Laser Diodes on Silicon

We report the successful integration on silicon of small footprint, low-threshold electrically pumped edge-emitting lasers by a new approach incorporating microcleaving technology to produce 6-mum-thick platelet lasers with cleaved facets, microscale pick and place assembly to position them on the substrate, and diaphragm pressure solder bonding to attach/connect them permanently in place. InP-based ridge-waveguide platelet lasers integrated on silicon lase at 1550-nm continuous-wave to 55degC (pulsed to 80degC) with output powers as high as 26.8 mW, external differential quantum efficiencies as high as 81%, and threshold currents as low as 18 mA.
Preclinical Investigations for Thrombectomy Devices—Does it Translate to Humans?

In the United States, 4 devices have received Food and Drug Administration clearance for intra-arterial mechanical removal of the embolus in a large vessel occlusion causing acute ischemic stroke (AIS). A number of other devices with similar indication are either beginning trials in the United States or are available for clinical use in the European Union. The goal of preclinical modeling for the intra-arterial treatment of AIS is to evaluate the safety and the efficacy of these devices quantitatively to predict how they will perform in patients, identify effective techniques for their use, or to optimize the design before introducing them into clinical trials. Safety studies should ascertain the potential for vascular trauma, propensity to generate distal emboli, and effect on the blood brain barrier, particularly in the case where the device is used to deliver energy for clot disruption. Efficacy metrics include the ability to restore flow through the occluded vessel (recanalization), the amount of flow restored to the distal territory (reperfusion), and the time needed to remove the embolus. Large animal models of stroke amenable to the study of endovascular mechanical thrombectomy are challenging because of the anatomy of the cerebrovasculature in commonly used laboratory animals.1 To date, most preclinical modeling uses large vessel occlusion in the extracranial circulation of the pig2–5 or dog,4,6 wherein the selected vessel is embolized with an autologous clot of varying composition. Notably, these are not models of AIS and, therefore, the traditional end points of infarct volume and neurological outcome are not applicable. Therefore, the end points of these studies are typically angiographic evidence of recanalization and pursuant damage to the vessel in which the device was operated. Importantly, the architecture of the extracranial vasculature with substantial perivascular support, external elastic lamina, and robust tunica media is …