cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TU-FF-A3-02: Preliminary Investigations Into Combined CT/SPECT Imaging Onboard Therapy Machines

Purpose: Functional and molecular (F&M) imaging onboard radiation therapy machines would allow for targeting of functional tumor volume, and avoiding of healthy tissue, by guiding and modifying radiation beams, in the treatment room, based on real‐time F&M information. This capability might be particularly critical when tumor is located within deformable internal organs. When deformable structures do not present adequate contrast in the CTimage, precise localization of tumor and healthy‐tissue can be difficult using onboard CT alone. Also, since some F&M properties can change on the time scale of an hour, onboard F&M imaging may be important for its temporal proximity to therapy. Given the benefits of onboard F&M imaging and the essentiality of onboard CT, the purpose of this study is to investigate the feasibility of using flat‐panel detectors (FPDs) to accomplish both CT and SPECT onboard therapy machines. Method and Materials: A 10 mCi point source of Tc99m was placed 100 cm from a bar phantom, with a FPD immediately behind the phantom. Data were acquired for 10 seconds. A signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) was computed with signal given by difference in mean activities in the exposed and bar‐covered regions and noise given by standard deviation of amplitudes in the 0.776‐mm‐wide exposed‐region pixels. Results: The bar phantom was clearly visualized. The measured SNR was 4. Conclusion: Additional experiments will be required to evaluate FPDSPECT when radiotracer is distributed over an extended source and a collimator is employed. Since FPDs have not been designed for SPECT, only limited SPECT performance can be expected. However, these initial characterizations of FPDSPECT may support FPD design modifications, such as thicker scintillators, that enable combined SPECT/CT imaging using FPDs mounted onto therapy machines.
Refining the measurement of maximization: Gender invariance and relation to psychological well-being

Abstract Maximization is a decision-making approach with the goal of obtaining the best available choice in a given situation. Although there are different ways to measure maximization, limitations in the measurement of maximization still exist. In the present studies, conceptual and statistical criteria guided an approach to refining the original Maximization Scale (Schwartz et al., 2002). In Study 1, a three-factor, 10-item Refined Maximization Scale (MS-R) emerged. Because prior research revealed gender differences in maximization, measurement invariance testing was conducted to ensure gender-equivalent functioning of the MS-R items. Study 2 replicated measurement invariance findings and examined associations between maximization and relevant outcomes. The “Regret” factor was positively associated with depression, and the “Want the Best” factor was positively associated with Happiness and Life Satisfaction. “Decisional Difficulty” was not associated with any constructs. Implications of these findings for basic and applied personality research are discussed.
Enzyme Inhibitors IV: Syntheses of 6-Substituted-9-(5-deoxy-β-D-xylofuranosyl)purines and Their Evaluation as Inhibitors of Adenosine Deaminase

A series of 6-substituted-9-(5-deoxy- β -D-xylofuranosyl)purines was prepared by the following procedure. D-Xylose was converted by an eight-step reaction sequence into 2-acetyl-3-benzoyl-5-deoxy-D-xylofuranosyl chloride (VI) which, on condensation with chloromercuri-6-chloropurine, gave 6-chloro-9-(2-acetyl-3-benzoyl-5-deoxy- β -D-xylofuranosyl)purine (VIII). Displacement of the 6-chloro group in VIII, followed by removal of the blocking groups, gave the following 6-substituted nucleosides: ( a ) amino, ( b ) methylamino, ( c ) dimethylamino, ( d ) mercapto, ( e ) methoxy, ( f ) hydrogen. Those nucleosides with a 6-amino, 6-methylamino, 6-dimethylamino, and 6-methoxy group inhibited, to a varying degree, the enzyme adenosine deaminase. In addition, the 6-amino analog was a substrate of adenosine deaminase.
Activated macrophage/microglial cells can promote the regeneration of sensory axons into the injured spinal cord.

A prominent role for phagocytic cells in the regenerative response to CNS or PNS injury has been suggested by numerous studies. In the present work we tested whether increasing the presence of phagocytic cells at a spinal cord injury site could enhance the regeneration of sensory axons from cut dorsal roots. Nitrocellulose membranes treated with TGF-beta or coated with microglial cells were cotransplanted with fetal spinal cord tissue into an injured adult rat spinal cord. Cut dorsal roots were apposed to both sides of the nitrocellulose. Four weeks later, animals were sacrificed and spinal cord tissue sections were processed for immunocytochemical detection of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP-ir) to identify regenerated sensory axons. Adjacent sections were processed with the antibody ED-1 or the lectin GSA-B4 for detection of macrophage/microglial cells in association with the regrowing axons. Qualitative and quantitative data indicate a correlation between the pattern and extent of axonal regeneration and the presence of phagocytic cells along the nitrocellulose implant. Axonal regeneration could be experimentally limited by implanting a nitrocellulose strip treated with macrophage inhibitory factor. These results indicate that increasing the presence of activated macrophage/microglial cells at a spinal cord injury site can provide an environment beneficial to the promotion of regeneration of sensory axons, possibly by the release of cytokines and interaction with other nonneuronal cells in the immediate vicinity.
Q -meson system in diffractive processes

We present a unitary, analytic coupled-channel model for diffractive production of the $Q$-meson system in $\mathrm{Kp}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathrm{Qp}$, with $Q\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{K}^{*}\ensuremath{\pi}$ and $Q\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\rho}K$. Our model includes well-defined nonresonant Deck amplitudes in states of $t$-channel helicities both one and zero. We obtain excellent fits to the high-statistics SLAC data at 13 GeV/c. We confirm the existence of two resonances, ${Q}_{1}$ and ${Q}_{2}$, with parameters ${M}_{1}=1.28\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.02$ GeV, $70l{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{1}^{\mathrm{tot}}l140$ MeV; ${M}_{2}=1.42\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.06$ GeV, ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{2}^{\mathrm{tot}}=230\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}50$ MeV. The ${Q}_{1}$ is coupled mainly to $\ensuremath{\rho}K$ and the ${Q}_{2}$ to ${K}^{*}\ensuremath{\pi}$.
Massively Parallel Model of Evolutionary Game Dynamics

To study the emergence of cooperative behavior, we have developed a scalable parallel framework. An important aspect is the amount of history that each agent can keep. When six memory steps are taken into account, the strategy space spans 2^4096 potential strategies, requiring large populations of agents. We introduce a multi-level decomposition method that allows us to exploit both multi-node and thread-level parallel scaling while minimizing the communication overhead. We present the following contributions: (1) A production run modeling up to six memory steps for populations consisting of up to 10^18 agents, making this study one of the largest yet undertaken. (2) Results exhibiting near perfect weak scaling and 82% strong scaling efficiency up to 262,144 processors of the IBM Blue Gene/P supercomputer and 16,384 processors of the Blue Gene/Q. Our framework marks an important step in the study of game dynamics with potential applications in fields ranging from biology to economics and sociology.
A 1.2 ns/1 ns 1 K*16 ECL dual-port cache RAM

An experimental 1-k*16 ECL (emitter coupled logic) dual-port cache RAM block that has a read/write port and an independently accessible read-only port is presented. Multiples of this block can be used to construct a high-performance, large-capacity cache memory. This dual-port memory cell is constructed by adding a differential emitter-coupled sense circuit for the read-only port to the p-n-p-load (or SCR-type) bipolar read/write single-port cell. The p-n-p-load cell is chosen because of its smaller area and better soft-error immunity than other types of bipolar memory cells. The cache block is fabricated using a 0.8- mu m, trench-isolated, double-poly, self-aligned 3.6-V Si-bipolar technology with double metal layers and a W local-interconnection layer. >
Identification and Estimation of Equivalence Scales under Weak Separability

This paper shows that most methods of incorporating demographic variation into separable models can be represented in a form that is identical to Barten equivalence scales, except that the scales themselves depend on the exact mix of goods that comprise each group, as well as on demographic variables. This generalization of Barten scales is shown to be more plausible than ordinary scales, can be used to increase the efficiency of demand system estimation, and can overcome Muellbauer's under-identification result for cross-sectional estimation of equivalence scales.
Performance metrics for constructed systems

Many engineers share the concern that the constructed facilities, which serve as the backbone of our infrastructure systems, are not providing the performance expected by society in the 21st Century. A major impediment to advancing performance is a lack of associated metrics. Civil engineering design, construction and evaluation guidelines, codes, specifications and related documents describe performance of constructed facilities and entire infrastructure systems qualitatively, often in nebulous, incomplete, unrealistic or inaccurate terms. Even when quantitative limits related to performance of some structures are offered in the code commentaries, whether these limits are realistic, or whether the design and construction processes may provide assurance of satisfying such limits is uncertain.
Design of fluid-loaded piezoelectric transducers for acoustic power considerations

In this paper, a design methodology for enhancing the acoustic power radiated from fluid-loaded piezoelectric transducers at a particular operating frequency is developed. For many applications the operating frequency is fixed by the absorption of the material and the desired depth of penetration (e.g., therapeutic ultrasound). For therapeutic ultrasound and other industrial applications, the acoustic power is the critical figure of merit. The acoustic power radiated from the transducer system is computed from a finite element formulation of the coupled acoustic, elastic, piezoelectric equations of motion. The sensitivities of the acoustic power to two design variables: the length of the piezoelectric element and the thickness of the matching layer, are derived. Using these sensitivities, a novel design methodology in which remeshing is avoided is developed and the effectiveness of the method is studied. Results from the application of this framework for transducer design demonstrate the dramatic increase in radiated power possible from this two member design space.
Nuclear pore complex – a coat specifically tailored for the nuclear envelope

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) are highly selective transport gates that enable the bi-directional traffic of macromolecules across the nuclear envelope (NE). NPCs are located at the fusion pores between the inner and outer membranes of the NE and are built from a common set of ∼30 different proteins, nucleoporins. Remarkably, recent proteomic, bioinformatic, and structural studies have provided firm evidence that key structural nucleoporins share common ancestry with elements of coated vesicles, indicating an evolutionary link between these structures. This has provided novel insight into the origin of NPCs and may help us to better functionally characterize these fundamental components of eukaryotic cells.
An elective course in cultural competence for healthcare professionals.

Objectives. To develop and assess a cultural competence elective course used to increase students' levels of awareness, acceptance, and understanding of the role of culture on healthcare perceptions. Design. Classroom and at-home assignments were designed, small group discussions were conducted, and guest speakers were recruited to allow students to explore different viewpoints about other cultures. Assessment. Student performance was assessed based on assignments and participation in class discussions. Student satisfaction with the course was assessed using a standard course evaluation form. Conclusion. Participation in the course resulted in greater student understanding of cultural issues facing healthcare providers and in students feeling more capable of integrating cultural factors into patient care.
Implications of a freshwater radiocarbon reservoir correction for the timing of late Holocene settlement of the Elk Hills, Kern County, California

Abstract Uncertainties regarding the magnitude of freshwater radiocarbon reservoir effects can introduce random errors into dates on archaeological freshwater carbonates. As a result, many archaeologists avoid dating freshwater shells unless no other datable materials are available. The chronology of prehistoric occupation of the former Naval Petroleum Reserve No. 1 (NPR-1) at Elk Hills, Kern County, has been established with 50 radiocarbon dates on freshwater mussels ( Gonidea and Anodonta sp.). Characterization of any freshwater radiocarbon reservoir effect is crucial for the accurate interpretation of inferred settlement and subsistence changes on the Elk Hills. Paired charcoal and freshwater mussels sampled from closely associated contexts were dated to identify a freshwater reservoir effect. Paired Anodonta and Gonidea sp. shells were dated to investigate interspecific differences in fractionation. Results indicate that a 340 ± 20 14 C yr correction should be applied to conventional 14 C dates on freshwater carbonates in the Buena Vista Basin before calendar calibration. Evidence of interspecific differences is inconclusive. Dates recalibrated with the reservoir correction indicate that widespread occupation of the Elk Hills is correlated with increasing precipitation towards the end of the Medieval Climatic Anomaly and during the Little Ice Age, suggesting that slough resource exploitation may have been driven by regional population pressure rather than drought-related declines in aquatic productivity.
Insulating and semiconducting phases of quasicrystalline and crystalline aluminum alloys

Abstract Unlike disordered crystalline and quasicrystalline metallic alloys, ordered quasicrystals based on aluminum are found to be highly non-metallic. In icosahedral AlPdRe alloys, insulating like behavior, marked by low- T resistivities as high as 20 Ω cm, has been measured. Results from measurements on insulating i-AlPdRe obtained in various thermal states will be highlighted. Comparison with crystalline alloys that show semimetallic and insulating behaviors has added to our understanding of the physics of i-alloys. The effects of s-d hybridisation and quasicrystallinity on electronic properties will be discussed. Present results indicate that insulating quasicrystals are distinctly different from conventional materials.
The Evi5 Oncogene Regulates Cyclin Accumulation by Stabilizing the Anaphase-Promoting Complex Inhibitor Emi1

Summary The anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) inhibitor Emi1 controls progression to S phase and mitosis by stabilizing key APC/C ubiquitination substrates, including cyclin A. Examining Emi1 binding proteins, we identified the Evi5 oncogene as a regulator of Emi1 accumulation. Evi5 antagonizes SCF βTrCP -dependent Emi1 ubiquitination and destruction by binding to a site adjacent to Emi1's DSGxxS degron and blocking both degron phosphorylation by Polo-like kinases and subsequent βTrCP binding. Thus, Evi5 functions as a stabilizing factor maintaining Emi1 levels in S/G2 phase. Evi5 protein accumulates in early G1 following Plk1 destruction and is degraded in a Plk1- and ubiquitin-dependent manner in early mitosis. Ablation of Evi5 induces precocious degradation of Emi1 by the Plk/SCF βTrCP pathway, causing premature APC/C activation; cyclin destruction; cell-cycle arrest; centrosome overduplication; and, finally, mitotic catastrophe. We propose that the balance of Evi5 and Polo-like kinase activities determines the timely accumulation of Emi1 and cyclin, ensuring mitotic fidelity.
Experimental characterization of the rear door fans and heat exchanger of a fully-enclosed, hybrid-cooled server cabinet

A water-cooled, fully-enclosed server cabinet is one type of hybrid cooling technology used in data centers to cool high power IT equipment. These types of cabinets employ a water/air heat exchanger. External chilled water is provided to the heat exchanger and circulating air inside the cabinet is supplied to the server intakes. One advantage of this type of hybrid system is that the heat removed by the water-side can be used for other purposes, which is a potential means for increasing the overall data center energy efficiency. A specific commercial hybrid server cabinet design has been characterized experimentally in this study. The cabinet utilizes a V-shaped, unmixed-unmixed liquid-to-air cross flow heat exchanger. Three robust rear door mounted fans produce the air circulation in the cabinet. They are capable of providing an air flow rate of up to 1.321m3/s (2800 CFM) depending on the air temperature inside the cabinet. In the experiments, the air velocity is measured at different positions at the inlet and outlet of the heat exchanger using an array of velocity sensors. The contribution of each fan to the airflow distribution at the inlet of the heat exchanger is characterized using the measured air velocity data. For the water-side, the flow rate and temperature of the chilled water supply is measured using a vortex flow meter. From the measured air and water flow rates and temperatures, the effectiveness of the heat exchanger is calculated. The experimental results are presented in terms of effectiveness curves for different air and water operating flow rates and the high performance V-shaped heat exchanger is characterized in detail using these results. The heat exchanger performance data provides a better understanding of the design and operation of this type of closed cabinet, which can be used to potentially improve the operating efficiency.
Natural convection of a heat-generating fluid within closed vertical cylinders and spheres

Steady natural convective flow fields were numerically and experimentally characterized for 0.7 Prandtl number fluids having constant, uniformly distributed, internal heat sources. The bounding isothermal walls containing the fluid were considered to be either a sphere or a cylinder of finite height. An instrumented cylinder containing radioactive tritium gas was used to demonstrate experimental and analytical agreement for local temperatures over a range of Grashof numbers. For the spherical geometry, a generalized correlation was obtained for the surface-averaged Nusselt number as a function of a modified Grashof number.
Religion in the Public Square

This article gives an overview of the debate about the “restraint principle” that political liberals urge on those who are inclined to use distinctive moral and theological doctrines in public square debates about politics. It clarifies such central concepts as “public reason” while surveying the main arguments and highlighting three different proposals for possible convergence in this conflict.
Frequent occurrence of a ζ-globin-region deletion in american blacks accounts for a previously-described restriction site polymorphism

Abstract We describe an 11.3 kb deletion within the ζ-globin gene region which was found in 2 of 16 American Black neonates. The deletion is consistent with an unequal crossover between the homologous ζ and Ψζ gene regions, resulting in a shortened Eco RI fragment (17.2 kb) containing a single ζ and the Ψα, α 2 , and α 1 genes. An earlier report of ζ-region crossovers (1) may have overestimated the size of this fragment by 2 kb. This finding led us to re-evaluate another report which concluded that a 17 kb Eco RI fragment found in 10% of the Black population was the result of a restriction site polymorphism (2). Our data do not substantiate this conclusion and we propose that the high frequency of this shortened fragment is due instead to an unequal crossover. Possible clinical consequences of this deletional event are also discussed.
College Student Beliefs About Wagering: An Evaluation of the Adolescent Gambling Expectancies Survey

Expectancy theory posits that decisions to engage in a given behavior are closely tied to expectations of the outcome of that behavior. Gambling outcome expectancies have predicted adolescent gambling and gambling problems. When high school students’ outcome expectancies were measured by Wickwire et al. (Psychol Addict Behav 24(1):75–88 2010), the Adolescent Gambling Expectancy Survey (AGES) revealed five categories of expectancies that were each predictive of gambling frequency and pathology. The present study aimed to explore if the AGES could be successfully replicated with college students. When administered to a diverse college student population, factor analyses identified five factors similar to those found in the high school sample. Several factors of the AGES were also found to predict gambling frequency and gambling problems for college students. Gambling frequency and gambling activity preference were also addressed.
Urban contrast and neo-Toryism: on the social and political symbolism of The Architectural Review's Townscape campaign

Using archival evidence from Hastings' unpublished writings, as well as from representative Townscape publications, this essay chronologically traces the genesis and development of Townscape as social and political project within the history of British planning theory. Revising recent scholarship on Townscape, the article posits that Townscape embraced a conservative project, in many ways resistant to the emerging welfare state and to the dominant government consensus for regionalist principles of post-war reconstruction. It argues that Townscape posited an anti-collectivist model of society, bound together, not through a consensus of aims or viewpoints, but through a composite ecology of individualizing difference, developed according to one's unique cultural role or ‘bias’. Paralleling conservative British political discourses of the period, Townscape aestheticized and naturalized such differences through a tri-partite model of social types and a metaphorical construction of society as nature. Understan...
Orthogonal space-time block coding with antenna selection and power allocation

A system that uses the Alamouti code on two out of three transmit antennas selected via feedback is studied. It is shown that in addition to optimal antenna selection, optimal power allocation can improve the performance with 1dB in uncorrelated Rayleigh fading. The impact of errors in the feedback link is also studied.
Method for Predicting Creep in Tension and Compression from Bending Tests

It is shown that tensile and compressive creep behavior may be deduced from deflection measurements in creep bending tests on beams of trapezoidal cross section. In the analysis it is assumed that creep strains are proportional to stress and are large relative to elastic strains.
Detection of virus antigens: hepatitis B antigen.

Abstract Hepatitis B virus is the infectious agent that causes hepatitis of the long incubation variety and frequently is transmitted by blood transfusions. Hepatitis B antigen (HB Ag, Australia antigen) is an immunologic marker of hepatitis B virus and is found in serum of patients with acute hepatitis and in chronic carriers. Transfusion of blood containing HB Ag frequently leads to hepatitis in the recipient. Many methods have been developed for detection of HB Ag. None of these methods are capable of detecting the minimum dose required to transmit hepatitis to humans. Radioimmunoassay methods were applied to measurement of HB Ag and hepatitis B antibody (HB Ab). Two general approaches have been used for measurement of HB Ag. The first is competitive radioassay using radioiodinated HB Ag and the second is a direct system using labeled HB Ab. Both methods offer considerably higher sensitivity than other common detection systems. However, preliminary studies suggest that donor screening for HB Ag by radioimmunoassay will not eliminate all HB Ag-associated transfusion hepatitis. Measurement of HB Ab by use of double-antibody radioimmunoassay has revealed evidence of prior exposure to HB Ag in a high proportion of the adult population, especially in lower socioeconomic groups. Evidence is accumulating that circulating HB Ab is associated with immunity to hepatitis B.
Restoration of fertility in sterilized Drosophila eggs by transplantation of polar cytoplasm

Abstract A technique for transplantation of cytoplasm between Drosophila eggs is described. Polar cytoplasm of newly laid eggs was first made ineffective for the determination of germ cells by UV irradiation. The sterility which results from this UV irradiation could be prevented by the injection of polar cytoplasm, but not by the injection of anterior cytoplasm from unirradiated donor eggs. The results provide the first demonstration of transplantation of agents causing determination in an insect and also provide a bioassay for these agents. Microscopical observations of UV irradiated eggs with and without transplanted polar cytoplasm revealed that UV irradiation delays the migration of cleavage nuclei into the posterior periplasm and prevents cytoplasmic protrusions at the posterior pole from becoming isolated from the periplasm to form pole cells. Transplantation of polar cytoplasm repairs these defects.
OCCURRENCE OF WEST NILE VIRUS INFECTION IN RAPTORS AT THE SALTON SEA, CALIFORNIA

We investigated the prevalence of West Nile virus (WNV)-neutralizing antibodies and infectious virus, and the occurrence of overwinter transmission in two raptor species during January and March 2006 at the Salton Sea, Imperial County, California. We captured 208 American Kestrels (Falco sparverius) (January, n=100; March, n=108) and 116 Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia) (January, n=52; March, n=64). Laboratory analysis revealed that 83% of American Kestrels and 31% of Burrowing Owls were positive for WNV-neutralizing antibodies. Additionally, two seroconversions were detected in Burrowing Owls between January and March. Infectious WNV, consistent with acute infection, was not detected in any bird.
The role of arthroscopy in evaluation of painful hip arthroplasty.

Unexplained pain after hip arthroplasty is frustrating for patients and surgeons. We describe the use of hip arthroscopy in management of the painful hip arthroplasty, critically evaluate the outcomes of these patients, and refine indications for hip arthroscopy in this setting. We retrospectively reviewed 14 patients (16 hips) who underwent hip arthroscopy after joint replacement. One patient had suspected septic arthritis despite negative aspiration and one had known septic arthritis but was not a candidate for open arthrotomy; two had intraarticular migration of hardware. The remaining 10 patients (11 hips) had persistent pain despite negative diagnostic studies. The two patients (two hips) with infection were successfully treated with arthroscopic lavage and debridement plus intravenous antibiotics. Intraarticular metal fragments and a loose acetabular screw were successfully removed in two patients (three hips). Findings in the remaining 11 hips included a loose acetabular component (one); corrosion at the head-neck junction of a metal-on-metal articulation (one); soft tissue-scar impingement at the head/cup interface (four); synovitis with associated scar tissue (four); and capsular scarring with adhesions (one). Arthroscopy represented a successful treatment or directly led to a successful treatment in 12 of 16 hips. We observed no complications as a result of the arthroscopy. Arthroscopy may be of value in selected patients undergoing hip arthroplasty with unexplained pain after an inconclusive standard workup. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Summer Habitat Suitability for Striped Bass in Chesapeake Bay: Reflections on a Population Decline

Abstract We evaluated summer water temperatures, dissolved oxygen concentrations, distribution of striped bass Morone saxatilis subadults and adults, and juvenile abundance indexes in Chesapeake Bay to discern any influences of summer habitat suitability on historical changes in populations. Criteria for habitat suitability were those identified in freshwater reservoirs (temperature below 25°C and dissolved oxygen above 2–3 mg/L), which we confirmed for the York-Pamunkey estuary in the lower bay. Habitat suitability in the upper central basin in July declined significantly from 1962 to 1987, as did juvenile abundance indexes (mean catches per standard seine haul). Thickness of suitable temperature-oxygen habitat correlated significantly with Maryland juvenile indexes the following year. Relative reproductive performance of upper (Maryland) and lower (Virginia) bay stocks changed between 1967–1973 and 1980–1988 in parallel with reduction in upper bay summer habitat. The annual temperature-oxygen cycle in t...
Suppression of bursting

Abstract We investigate the possibility of using a single small amplitude control input and feedback to stabilize equilibrium sets in a class of highly nonlinear O (2) symmetric dynamical systems possessing structurally stable heteroclinic cycles. The leading-order behavior near the equilibria is bilinear and homogeneous in the state variables, while nonlinearities representing the symmetry breaking effect of the controller are crucial. After a series of simplifying transformations, we use ideas from optimal control theory to construct a stabilizing controller. This study is motivated by the desire to stabilize the burst/sweep cycle in low-dimensional models of a turbulent boundary layer. In the last two sections, we apply the techniques to the 10-dimensional system of Aubry et al . (1988). kw]Bilinear systems; dynamical systems; heteroclinic cycles; normal forms; optimal control; symmetry
Client Satisfaction with Transportation and Handyman/Chore Services in a Pilot Shared Cost-Service Coordination Program

Abstract This descriptive study investigates the validity and reliability of two new instruments to measure client satisfaction with transportation (TSM) and handyman/chore (HSM) services and determines the degree to which clients were satisfied with the transportation and handyman chore services that they received in a pilot cost share program. Reliability testing indicated that both the TSM and the HSM had high internal consistency with respective Chronbach's Alphas of .73 and .77. Validity testing with the TSM (r =.52, p < .01) and the HSM (r =.30, p =.05) also yielded significant positive correlations with their criterion measures. Thus, there is some evidence that the TSM and the HSM are methodologically sound instruments that can be used to evaluate client satisfaction with transportation and handyman chore services.
Low temperature formation of silicon oxide

Abstract Silicon oxide films have been formed at temperatures as low as 25°C, using a reaction of Si with a vapor mixture containing either NO, HF and H 2 O or NO, HF, H 2 O and O 2 . Experimental data relating silicon oxide film growth with processing parameters such as vapor composition, temperature and time are presented. Conditions for the growth of silicon oxide films of specific thicknesses are outlined.
ADVANCED CONTROL METHODS FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS

SUMMARY This paper reviews key developments in applications of advanced control methods to automotive systems. Such applications appear in many aspects of vehicle controls. We will examine representative application areas, which include engines, suspension systems, traction systems, steering systems and those for automated highway systems (AHS). Each area is examined from the viewpoint of modeling and control algorithm development. Useful control theories for automotive application are briefly reviewed for better understanding of the applicability of these theories.
Local epitaxy and lateral epitaxial overgrowth of SiC

Abstract Selective epitaxial growth and lateral overgrowth of SiC using a graphite mask is reported in this paper. Selective area SiC growth is accomplished using physical vapor transport (PVT) epitaxy. The growth was carried out on 4 H and 6H-SiC wafers on- and 8° off-oriented from the basal plane in the 〈1 1 2 0〉 direction. A graphite mask, consisting of rows and columns of uniformly spaced open circles of 75-μm in diameter was used for the selective nucleation of SiC mesa structures. Using PVT epitaxy, selective area hexagonal-shaped structures were successfully grown. There was essentially no direct growth of SiC on the graphite film observed. A lateral/vertical growth rate ratio of 6 was achieved. Optical and scanning microscope images show perfectly formed hexagonal islands, which are located over the open circular windows. The results suggest that the selective area epitaxial growth of SiC is a promising technique for obtaining high quality, locally grown mesa structures for SiC device applications.
Desquamative gingivitis: Clinical, histopathologic, immunopathologic, and therapeutic observations

Desquamative gingivitis is characterized by a diffuse erythema of the marginal and attached gingivae associated with areas of vesiculation, erosion, and desquarnation. Desquamative gingivitis is not a disease sui generis but represents a reaction pattern of the gingivae to various stimuli. Cicatricial pemphigoid, lichen planus, and pemphigus vulgaris may present as desquamative gingivitis. We observed forty-one patients whose disease was limited to the gingiva; studied them by light and direct immunofluorescence microscopy; classified them according to clinical, histologic, and immunopathologic observations; and followed them for an average of 3 years. Two patients had pemphigus vulgaris, and one each had lichen planus and contact stomatitis. Thirty-seven were classified as cicatricial pemphigoid suspects. In eighteen patients, the gingivitis developed into cicatricial pemphigoid, and in nineteen, it remained limited to the masticatory mucosa. Disease evolution is slow. The response to anti-inflammatory therapy, including topical corticosteroids and systemic dapsone or sulfapyridine, has been gratifying.
The co-occurrence of pain and depression in adults with multiple sclerosis.

Purpose/objective To define the rates of pain, depression, and their co-occurrence in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). Research method/design Participants were 161 persons with MS who previously participated in research and indicated a willingness to be contacted for future studies. Data were collected via postal survey and included the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 for depressive symptoms and a numerical rating scale (0-10) for pain. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analyses, and odds ratios were calculated to describe the prevalence, difference, and likelihood of depression, pain, and their comorbidity. Results Some level of pain was experienced by 73% of the sample, with 40% of the entire sample reporting moderate or worse pain severity. Clinically significant levels of depressive symptoms were reported by 22% of the sample, and 8% reported sufficient symptoms to meet major depressive episode diagnostic criteria. Of persons meeting depression criteria, 86-100% reported experiencing any pain; 67-77% of persons meeting depression criteria reported experiencing pain of at least moderate severity. Of persons experiencing any pain, 11-34% met depression criteria; 15-37% of persons experiencing pain of at least moderate severity met depression criteria. Conclusions/implications Pain and depression co-occur frequently in persons with MS. However, it is more common for individuals with depression to report pain than for individuals with pain to endorse symptoms of depression. Future studies should explore the implications of this co-occurrence, such as whether these individuals experience greater levels of disability, higher medical costs, or fewer benefits from treatment than persons with either condition alone.
Glucagon gene regulatory region directs oncoprotein expression to neurons and pancreatic a cells

The regulatory region of the rat preproglucagon gene targets expression of the SV40 large T oncoprotein to two cell types in transgenic mice, the pancreatic alpha cells and a set of neurons localized in the hindbrain, both of which normally produce preproglucagon. Additional neurons in the forebrain and midbrain stain for T antigen but do not express the endogenous glucagon gene. Synthesis of T antigen in endocrine alpha cells results in the heritable development of pancreatic glucagonomas. In brains of transgenic mice from three independent lineages, expression of the hybrid gene begins at embryonic day 12 in neuroblasts of the hindbrain, where it continues throughout adult life, most notably in the medulla. Remarkably, oncoprotein expression in both proliferating neuroblasts and mature neurons has no apparent consequences, either phenotypic or tumorigenic. Expression of the hybrid glucagon gene in both neurons and islet cells supports a possible interrelationship between these cell types.
COMPUTATIONAL GEOMETRY COLUMN 22

The class of n2-hard geometric problems is described, with special concentration on detecting collinearities among a set of points in the plane.
Bcl-xL is expressed in ovarian carcinoma and modulates chemotherapy-induced apoptosis.

Abstract Objective. To investigate the role of Bcl-x L in resistance to chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in ovarian carcinoma. Methods. Two human ovarian carcinoma cell lines were used in this study: A2780 and SKOV3. A2780 cells were transfected with human Bcl-x L or control plasmid alone. Expression of Bcl-x L in single cell clones was analyzed by flow cytometry and protein expression was confirmed by Western blot. For in vitro chemotherapy-induced death assays, cisplatin and Taxol were used. The percentage of apoptotic cells was determined by nuclear propidium iodide staining followed by flow cytometric analysis. Human ascites samples were used to make tumor lysates which were then analyzed for expression of Bcl-x L protein by Western blot. Results. A2780 cells express low levels of endogenous Bcl-x L while SKOV3 cells express high amounts as determined by Western blot. In addition, A2780 cells are sensitive to chemotherapy-induced cell death while SKOV3 cells are resistant. To determine if chemoresistance is mediated by expression of Bcl-x L , A2780 cells were transfected with Bcl-x L or control plasmid. Cells were incubated with either cisplatin or Taxol to induce apoptosis. Bcl-x L -expressing cells were highly resistant to cisplatin and Taxol compared with controls ( P L on Western blot. Conclusions. The results of these studies indicate that Bcl-x L is expressed in ovarian carcinoma, and in A2780 cells functions in a manner analogous to Bcl-2 by inhibiting chemotherapy-induced apoptosis. This may have prognostic significance; previous studies have demonstrated that patients with breast cancer that overexpress Bcl-2 have low-grade, hormonally responsive tumors. In ovarian carcinoma, another Bcl-2 family member, Bcl-x L may be responsible for modulating resistance to chemotherapy-induced apoptosis.
Increasing maternal body mass index and the accuracy of sonographic estimation of fetal weight near delivery.

Objectives To evaluate whether an increasing body mass index (BMI) influences the accuracy of sonographic estimation of fetal weight. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of singleton deliveries over a 2-year period in a single institution. Patients were included if they had a fetal weight estimation within 2 weeks of delivery. The Δ estimated fetal weight (EFW) was calculated by subtracting the sonographic EFW from the birth weight and compared among our study groups, which were based on the maternal BMI class. We also compared the absolute percentage error of estimation, rate of substantial error greater than 20%, rate of underestimation, and ability to predict fetal weight greater than 4000 g. Post hoc power analysis determined that our study group of 1200 patients allowed for an α of .05 and β of .90. Results We included 1177 women in our analysis. The median ΔEFW varied between study groups: 137, 202, 157, 200, and 189 g, respectively, in normal-weight, overweight, and obese classes 1, 2, and 3 (P = .01). The median percentage error of estimation between study groups varied between 5.0% in normal-weight women and 7.1% in class 2 obese women (P= .05). The rate of substantial error was similar between study groups and varied between 2.7% in class 1 obese women and 4.3% in normal-weight and class 2 obese women. Linear regression analysis showed a weak association between maternal BMI and ΔEFW (R(2) = 0.005; r = 0.069). Conclusions The absolute ΔEFW was lower in normal-weight women; however, the percentage error of the EFW was similar between women of varying BMI classifications, as was the rate of substantial error and the rate of underestimation of the EFW.
Impedance-Transforming Symmetric and Asymmetric DC Blocks

Design formulas of symmetric and asymmetric dc blocks are presented for achieving Chebyshev and Butterworth frequency responses. They can also be used for impedance transformers. Design formulas of symmetric dc blocks are first derived and those of asymmetric dc blocks are also computed based on the symmetric ones. For easy derivation of design formulas of the symmetric dc blocks, coupling coefficient, being proportional to bandwidth, is defined. It is then clarified that symmetric Chebyshev dc blocks are not possible for the impedance transforming. For the symmetric Butterworth dc blocks, three design methods are exploited. To verify the symmetric Butterworth dc blocks, a microstrip dc block with 50- and 25-Ω termination impedances designed at a center frequency of 2 GHz was fabricated. The measured S12 = S21 and S11 = S22 are - 0.19 and - 57 dB around 2 GHz, showing quite good agreement with simulation results. Based on synthesized symmetric dc blocks, the coefficients of transfer function |S12|2 are calculated and design formulas of the asymmetric dc blocks are derived based on the symmetric ones. Asymmetric Chebyshev dc blocks are verified by the measurements provided in a previously published paper and asymmetric Butterworth dc blocks by the symmetric Butterworth dc block measured in this paper.
Lysine residues in N-terminal and C-terminal regions of human histone H2A are targets for biotinylation by biotinidase

In eukaryotic cell nuclei, DNA associates with the core histones H2A, H2B, H3 and H4 to form nucleosomal core particles. DNA binding to histones is regulated by posttranslational modifications of N-terminal tails (e.g., acetylation and methylation of histones). These modifications play important roles in the epigenetic control of chromatin structure. Recently, evidence that biotinidase and holocarboxylase synthetase (HCS) catalyze the covalent binding of biotin to histones has been provided. The primary aim of this study was to identify biotinylation sites in histone H2A and its variant H2AX. Secondary aims were to determine whether acetylation and methylation of histone H2A affect subsequent biotinylation and whether biotinidase and HCS localize to the nucleus in human cells. Biotinylation sites were identified using synthetic peptides as substrates for biotinidase. These studies provided evidence that K9 and K13 in the N-terminus of human histones H2A and H2AX are targets for biotinylation and that K125, K127 and K129 in the C-terminus of histone H2A are targets for biotinylation. Biotinylation of lysine residues was decreased by acetylation of adjacent lysines but was increased by dimethylation of adjacent arginines. The existence of biotinylated histone H2A in vivo was confirmed by using modification-specific antibodies. Antibodies to biotinidase and HCS localized primarily to the nuclear compartment, consistent with a role for these enzymes in regulating chromatin structure. Collectively, these studies have identified five novel biotinylation sites in human histones; histone H2A is unique among histones in that its biotinylation sites include amino acid residues from the C-terminus.
Performance optimization and light-beam-deviation analysis of the parallel-slab division-of-amplitude photopolarimeter

A division-of-amplitude photopolarimeter that uses a parallel-slab multiple-reflection beam splitter was described recently [Opt. Lett. 21, 1709 (1996)]. We provide a general analysis and an optimization of a specific design that uses a fused-silica slab that is uniformly coated with a transparent thin film of ZnS on the front surface and with an opaque Ag or Au reflecting layer on the back. Multiple internal reflections within the slab give rise to a set of parallel, equispaced, reflected beams numbered 0, 1, 2, and 3 that are intercepted by photodetectors D(0), D(1), D(2), and D(3), respectively, to produce output electrical signals i(0), i(1), i(2), and i(3), respectively. The instrument matrix A, which relates the output-signal vector I to the input Stokes vector S by I = AS, and its determinant D are analyzed. The instrument matrix A is nonsingular; hence all four Stokes parameters can be measured simultaneously over a broad spectral range (UV-VIS-IR). The optimum film thickness, the optimum angle of incidence, and the effect of light-beam deviation on the measured input Stokes parameters are considered.
Dynamic material properties in birefringent materials

Dynamic photoelasticity is a full field technique which has been used by various researchers as an aid to improve understanding of problems that involve stress wave propagation. Birefringent materials that exhibit sufficient sensitivity to loading for stress wave propagation studies are typically polymers. Glass, which is not nearly as viscoelastic as polymers does not exhibit enough sensitivity for easy measurements, thus it is unsuitable for most dynamic studies. The effect of loading rate on material properties is more pronounced in polymers, hence accurate measurement of these properties is essential in a dynamic photoelastic study. The problem associated with the determination of the dynamic material properties of a polymer is the determination of the exact location of the wavefront. Digital image analysis can be used to locate the wavefront with a great deal of accuracy. The results from the digital image analysis can then be used to determine dynamic material properties for the polymer.