cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Propagation of Density Fluctuations in Liquid Rubidium: A Molecular-Dynamics Study

Liquid rubidium has been simulated on a computer. Density fluctuations in the computer liquid are essentially identical with those in the real liquid as measured by neutron in-elastic-scattering experiments. Hence the interaction potential used for the simulation should be considered reliable for the study of liquid rubidium. Density waves are found to propagate even at wavelengths as small as the nearest neighbor distance in the liquid, a property not found in liquid argon.
Heritage Language Maintenance and Cultural Identity Formation: The Case of Korean Immigrant Parents and Their Children in the USA.

This study explores the beliefs and attitudes that Korean immigrant parents and their children in the USA hold about their heritage language. Data were collected through interviews. This study addresses how parents' perspectives and their actual heritage language practices with their children influence their children's cultural identity and heritage language maintenance. Findings suggest that immigrant children's peers and teachers at school who are not from the same ethnic group (co-ethnics) might play a crucial role in helping children to have positive attitudes regarding learning their heritage language, ultimately influencing their positive cultural identity.
A model to study differences between primary and secondary degeneration of retinal ganglion cells in rats by partial optic nerve transection.

Purpose To use a rat model of optic nerve injury to differentiate primary and secondary retinal ganglion cell (RGC) injury. Methods Under general anesthesia, a modified diamond knife was used to transect the superior one third of the orbital optic nerve in albino Wistar rats. The number of surviving RGC was quantified by counting both the number of cells retrogradely filled with fluorescent gold dye injected into the superior colliculus 1 week before nerve injury and the number of axons in optic nerve cross sections. RGCs were counted in 56 rats, with 24 regions examined in each retinal wholemount. Rats were studied at 4 days, 8 days, 4 weeks, and 9 weeks after transection. The interocular difference in RGCs was also compared in five control rats that underwent no surgery and in five rats who underwent a unilateral sham operation. It was confirmed histologically that only the upper optic nerve had been directly injured. Results At 4 and 8 days after injury, superior RGCs showed a mean difference from their fellow eyes of -30.3% and -62.8%, respectively (P = 0.02 and 0.001, t-test, n = 8 rats/group), whereas sham-operation eyes had no significant loss (mean difference between eyes = 1.7%, P = 0.74, t-test). At 8 days, inferior RGCs were unchanged from control, fellow eyes (mean interocular difference = -4.8%, P = 0.16, t-test). Nine weeks after transection, inferior RGC had 34.5% fewer RGCs than their fellow eyes, compared with 41.2% fewer RGCs in the superior zones of the injured eyes compared with fellow eyes. Detailed, serial section studies of the topography of RGC axons in the optic nerve showed an orderly arrangement of fibers that were segregated in relation to the position of their cell bodies in the retina. Conclusions A model of partial optic nerve transection in rats showed rapid loss of directly injured RGCs in the superior retina and delayed, but significant secondary loss of RGCs in the inferior retina, whose axons were not severed. The findings confirm similar results in monkey eyes and provide a rodent model in which pharmacologic interventions against secondary degeneration can be tested.
Initial junctions between developing parallel fibers and Purkinje cells are different from mature synaptic junctions

During postnatal development of cerebellar cortex, junctions are formed between parallel fiber axons and the shafts of Purkinje cell dendrites. These shaft junctions resemble synaptic junctions on spines in thin sections, in that the axon contains a cluster of synaptic vesicles, and the pre- and postjunctional membranes are lined by electron-dense material. The shaft junctions do not have the aggregate of particles arrayed on the extracellular half of the postjunctional membrane that is characteristic of mature spine synaptic junctions in freeze-fractured preparations, however, and so presumably have a different protein composition. Shaft junctions are transient specializations, present only in developing tissue, but do not appear simply to be intermediates in the formation of mature spine synaptic junctions. In normal development, spines are formed by the Purkinje cell dendrite at sites not occupied by shaft junctions. Moreover, in certain neurological mutant mice, shaft junctions form in the absence of spine synapses, and in other systems spines develop in the absence of shaft junctions. We suggest that shaft junctions are a class of synapse formed during development which is distinguished by its capacity to dissociate, and that only some fraction of the parallel fibers forming shaft synapses with a developing Purkinje cell will have established spine synapses in the adult.
Ferromagnetic resonance observation of a phase transition in magnetic field-aligned Fe2O3 nanoparticles

Abstract Fe 2 O 3 hematite (alpha) nanoparticles suspended in the liquid phase of the liquid crystal 4,4-azoxyanlsole (PAA) are cooled below the freezing temperature (397 K) in a 4000 G dc magnetic field. The in field solidification locks the direction of maximum magnetization of the particles parallel to the direction of the applied dc magnetic field removing the effects of dynamical fluctuations of the nanoparticles on the magnetic properties allowing a study of the intrinsic magnetic properties of the nanoparticles as well as the anisotropic behavior of the ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) signal. Freezing in PAA allows temperature-dependent measurements to be made at much higher temperature than previous measurements. The field position, line width and intensity of the FMR signal as a function of temperature as well as the magnetization show anomalies in the vicinity of 200 K indicative of a magnetic transition, likely the previously observed Morin transition shifted to lower temperature due to the small particle size. Weak ferromagnetism is observed below T c in contrast to the bulk material where it is antiferromagnetic below T c . The Raman spectrum above and below 200 K shows no evidence of a change in lattice symmetry associated with the magnetic transition.
Using Pivotal Response Training and Technology to Engage Preschoolers With Autism in Conversations

It is well known that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) demonstrate a significant delay in language development that impacts their ability to engage in robust conversations. In this article the authors discuss two specific elements of pivotal response training—motivation and self-initiations—for children with ASD. Specific research-based intervention strategies are addressed for teaching preschoolers with ASD to ask questions leading to social conversations. Additionally, the authors suggest ways that teachers can embed technology, specifically the use of iPad apps, to further support conversations.
Evaluation of the Dynamic Angle Validator

Current test methods specify that the angle of gyration of a Superpaver gyratory compactor (SGC) be measured externally or outside of the mold. The external angle of gyration may not accurately portray the actual angle inside the mold during compaction. Significant differences in compacted density have been observed in specimens compacted with different SGCs. Measuring the angle of gyration inside the mold would reveal the cause for varied levels of compaction in different SGCs. The dynamic angle validator (DAV) was developed to measure the internal angle of gyration. The Florida Department of Transportation evaluated the DAV with several mixtures and compactors. Mixture stiffness had an effect on the internal angle measurement in some SGCs. Measuring and setting SGC angles of gyration internally statewide should reduce the variability in compacted density among different SGCs. Other factors not related to angle of gyration can contribute to density variability. The compactor needs to be clean and in good...
Percy Shelley's “Unfinished Drama” and the Problem of the Jane Williams Poems

This essay returns to the extensive scholarly debate surrounding the lyrics and fragments which Percy Bysshe Shelley composed for Jane Williams, or with her in mind, during the last six months of his life. It takes its point of departure in what it defines as “the problem of the Jane Williams poems” – the difficulty, faced by biographers, editors, and critics alike, of mapping the relationship between the “Jane” of Shelley's poems and the historical Jane Williams. Drawing on the physical evidence available from Shelley's manuscripts, the essay seeks to establish a secure chronology for the Jane Williams poems and to re-assess, on the basis of that chronology, what those poems might be able to tell us about the course of Shelley's relationship with Jane in the last six months of his life. The essay offers new readings of a number of the Jane Williams poems, including “The Magnetic lady to her patient” and the fragment “We meet not as we parted,” as well as an extended discussion of Shelley's so-called “Unf...
Effect of Protease Inhibitors on Yield of HSV-1-Based Viral Vectors

The ability to obtain high titer replication-defective herpes simplex virus (HSV) recombinant vectors will dramatically affect their use in gene therapy clinical trials. A variety of techniques and reagents have been employed to increase the overall yield of the vector. The effects of protease inhibitors on the yield of an HSV-1-based viral vector were examined. Experiments were conducted using a commercial protease inhibitor cocktail typically used in mammalian cell culture for protein production. Contrary to our expectation for enhanced vector yield, the results showed a dramatic reduction in vector yield. Moreover, it was found that AEBSF is the only component in the protease cocktail responsible for the low vector yield. On the basis of our hypothesis regarding the mode of action of AEBSF, we suggest that it should not be included in protease inhibitor cocktails designed for use in cultures aimed at production of viral vectors derived from HSV-1 or possibly several other vectors.
Systematic discovery of regulatory motifs in Fusarium graminearum by comparing four Fusarium genomes

Background Fusarium graminearum (Fg), a major fungal pathogen of cultivated cereals, is responsible for billions of dollars in agriculture losses. There is a growing interest in understanding the transcriptional regulation of this organism, especially the regulation of genes underlying its pathogenicity. The generation of whole genome sequence assemblies for Fg and three closely related Fusarium species provides a unique opportunity for such a study.
Adaptation as a more powerful tool than decomposition and integration: experimental evidences from evolutionary robotics

A new way of building control systems, known as behavior based robotics, has been proposed to overcome the difficulties of the traditional Al approach to robotics. Most of the work done in behavior-based robotics involves a decomposition process (in which the behavior required is broken down into simpler sub-components) and an integration process (in which the modules designed to produce the sub-behaviors are put together). We claim that decomposition and integration should be the result of an adaptation process and not of the decision of the experimenter. In this paper we support this hypothesis by showing how in two different cases a more simple and robust solution can be obtained by letting the entire behavior emerge through an evolutionary technique than by trying to design a set of modules and to coordinate them.
The Sapiential Dimension of Theology according to St. Thomas

In the wake of the (almost) universal rejection of neo-Thomism after the Second Vatican Council it was normal to view St. Thomas's theology within the prism of certain stereotypes. A particularly favoured generalisation said that in Thomas's theology Aristotle had trumped the Bible turning theology away from its principle source and power. In recent years however there has been a renewal in what this paper argues is a more holistic reading of St. Thomas focussing especially on his sapiential understanding of theology. Names synonymous with this renewal are Torrell, Emery, Pinckaers, Cessario, and Levering. It is the purpose of this paper to highlight the source of this more sapiential reading of St. Thomas by discussing four key dimensions of his understanding of theology: 1) what Thomas means by wisdom 2) the contemplative nature of theology 3) the unitive nature of theology 4) the importance of prayer and holiness for theology.
Atypical endocervical glandular cells: Accuracy of cytologic diagnosis

Atypical cells thought to be of endocervical glandular origin often cause diagnostic uncertainty in cervicovaginal smears. For this reason consecutive cases of endocervical glandular atypia diagnosed in smears were correlated with subsequent biopsy diagnoses and then retrospectively reviewed. Smears were originally diagnosed as "mild glandular atypia, probably reactive" or "severe glandular atypia, suggestive of adenocarcinoma in situ" (AIS). Biopsy follow-up was obtained on 34 of 58 patients diagnosed with severe endocervical glandular atypia. Nine patients (26%) had AIS, three with concomitant high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) and tow with invasive adenocarcinoma. Eighteen patients (53%) had HSIL only. Seven had benign changes. Of 152 patients diagnosed with mild glandular atypia, biopsy follow-up was obtained on 40. One patient had AIS; 14 (35%) had HSIL; one had low-grade SIL (LSIL); and 24 (60%) had benign changes. Blinded review of these smears yielded results similar to those in the biopsy follow-up, that is, the prediction of AIS on smears included most cases of AIS, some invasive adenocarcinomas, a significant number of HSIL, cases and a few benign lesions. A review diagnosis of "reactive glandular cells" proved to be HSIL in 31% of cases and AIS in one case. We conclude that patients with a diagnosis of severe glandular atypia in smears may prove to have AIS or invasive adenocarcinoma, but often have HSIL without concomitant AIS. In addition, although "reactive" glandular atypia in smears usually reflects a benign condition, a significant minority of such patients prove to have HSIL.
A configural analysis of psychiatric diagnostic stereotypes

This article is the second report of a series of investigations concerned with psychiatric diagnostic classification, designed to increase the understanding of psychiatric diagnosis and eventually to contribute toward an increase in the effectiveness of diagnostic procedures through the application of objective quantitative methods. The first article (Overall & Gcrham, 1963) reported the use of a Bayesian probability model and computer techniques to classify rating profiles of typical or stereotype cases. It was demonstrated that the computer could identify with high degree of accuracy the particular diagnostic types being rated. The fact that some errors in classification did occur and that they were more likely among certain categories than among others suggested the need for a further investigation of relationships and differences among symptom profiles associated with different diagnostic concepts. The present article reports application of the method of multiple discriminant analysis to the study of configural relationships among symptom profiles associated with thirteen psychotic types.
The ultrastructure of the cat myocardium. II. Atrial muscle.

The ultrastructure of the cells specialized for contraction in the atrium and ventricle of young adult cats are compared. The cells specialized for conduction are not included. In addition to possessing distinctive atrial granules, the cells of the atrium are smaller in diameter (5–6 µ) than ventricular cells (10–12 µ) and have strikingly fewer T tubules. These latter differences are discussed in terms of their possible significance for the rate of conduction of the action potential. It is suggested that the very small number of T tubules in atrial cells may compensate for the small cell diameter, and thus permit rapid conduction of the action potential across the surface of the atrium. Coated dense vesicles found in association with the sarcoplasmic reticulum at the level of the Z line in ventricular muscle are more evident in atrial cells. In the virtual absence of T tubules in atrial cells, the sub-sarcolemmal cisternae of the sarcoplasmic reticulum are almost exclusively at the cell periphery. The ends of the cells and their processes in ventricular muscle are rectilinear with the interdigitated portions of the intercalated discs oriented transversely, whereas those of the atrium are often oblique to the myofilament axis. This difference may be related to the lower mechanical tension on atrial cells.
Thinned arrays using genetic algorithms

Large arrays are difficult to thin in order to obtain low sidelobes. Traditional statistical methods of aperiodic array synthesis fall far short of optimum configurations. Traditional optimization methods are not well suited for optimizing a large number of parameters or discrete parameters. This paper presents how to optimally thin an array using genetic algorithms. The genetic algorithm determines which elements are turned off in a periodic array to yield the lowest maximum relative sidelobe level. Simulation results for 200 element linear arrays and 200 element planar arrays are shown. The arrays are thinned to obtain sidelobe levels of less than -20 dB. The linear arrays are also optimized over both scan angle and bandwidth. >
A Topological Hierarchy of Molecular Chirality and other Tidbits in Topological Stereochemistry

Chemists have long been intrigued by the molecular basis of isomerism. Indeed, much of the powerful paradigm of structure based upon the molecular graph was first invented to explain isomerism, including the classifications used in modern stereochemistry. Thus, constitutional isomers describe pairs of isomeric molecular structures possessing non-homeomorphic molecular graphs, while the classical stereoisomers (enantiomers and diastereomers) possess molecular graphs which are homeomorphic and also homeotopic (interconvertable by continuous deformation in 3-space). This means that classical stereoisomerism is derived from the Euclidean properties of molecular graphs, being a manifestation of some kind of molecular rigidity.
Micromechanical Modeling of Hot-Mix Asphalt Mixtures by Imaging and Discrete Element Methods

This study focused on the application of a clustered micromechanical discrete-element modeling (DEM) technique to predict the uniaxial compression dynamic modulus of hot-mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures. Six HMA mixtures were made with two types of asphalts and two gradations for limestone and gravel aggregates. The dynamic modulus of HMA was determined at three temperatures by using the indirect tensile test (IDT). Similarly, a frequency sweep test was used to determine the shear complex modulus (G*) of the asphalt matrix (AM) at various temperatures. The master curves for both AM and HMA mixtures were generated at 25°C, and results were analyzed. A two-dimensional, synthetic, heterogeneous microstructure of HMA was reconstructed with scanned images of IDT specimens. Bulk characteristics were used to determine the microproperties of the AM and aggregate structure in order to conduct virtual compressive test simulations. The results indicated that the DEM simulation accurately predicted the dynamic modulus of A...
A comparative study of the forced BDA and KdV systems

The excitation of nonlinear disturbances by localized stationary forcings in the mathematical models, based on either the Benjamin-Davis-Acrivos (BDA) or the Korteweg-deVries (KdV) equation and used for description of numerous atmospheric, oceanic, and boundary-layer phenomena, is discussed in detail. The analysis of the wave-pattern evolution upon the gradual increase in the intensity of the external influence shows that, in the first stage, the process of wave emission in both the BDA and KdV systems bears important similar features. One of them is the solution bifurcation, which in both systems marks the transition from the initial subcritical regime, characterized by the passive production of slow waves, to the supercritical regime of vigorous wave radiation. In both systems, the bifurcation triggers a peculiar wave motion of the limit-cycle-type in the immediate vicinity of the obstacle. However, the development of the supercritical regime itself is different for each system. In the case of the BDA equation, the maximal symmetrization of the wave motion above the obstacle is achieved prior to the abrupt destruction of symmetry through the second bifurcation and the onset of motion with elements of erratic behavior. In the KdV system, the regular wave motion above the obstacle endures specific modulations which tend to increase along with the intensity of the forcing and gradually transform into the essential distortions of the initial limit-cycle-type oscillations. (Author)
Idiopathic Acquired Hemophilia A with Undetectable Factor VIII Inhibitor

Objective. We present the case of a 73-year-old female, with no family or personal history of a bleeding disorder, who had a classic presentation for acquired hemophilia A. Factor VIII activity was low but detectable and a factor VIII inhibitor was undetectable. Methods. The patient’s plasma was comprehensively studied to determine the cause of the acquired coagulopathy. Using the Nijmegen modification of the Bethesda assay, no factor VIII autoantibody was measureable despite varying the incubation time from 1 to 3 hours. Results. The aPTT was prolonged at 46.8 seconds, which did not correct in the 4 : 1 mix but did with 1 : 1 mix. Using a one stage factor VIII activity assay, the FVIII activity was 16% and chromogenic FVIII activity was also 16%. The patient was treated with recombinant FVII and transfusion, significantly reducing bleeding. Long-term therapy was initiated with cyclophosphamide and prednisone with normalization of FVIII activity. Conclusions. Physicians can be presented with the challenging clinical picture of an acquired factor VIII inhibitor without a detectable inhibitor by the Bethesda assay. Standard therapy for an acquired hemophilia A should be considered.
How to Transform Ourselves, Our Nations, and the World Scientifically

This paper attempts to show that advance in the understanding of religion is also the pathway for a more just and peaceful world order and vice versa. That is, if we can solve one problem, we have solved the other. Such an understanding will be shown leading to a scientific framework for individual, national, and global transformation. The prerequisites for progress are an openness of mind but simultaneously a steadfast commitment to relying on data alone for decision making.
Formation of Quasicrystals in Rapidly Solidified Al Alloys

Electron beam surface melting has been used to study Al-Mn and Al-Mn-Si alloys subjected to a wide range of solidification conditions. Several of the reported equilibrium intermetallic phases are not found even at moderate growth rates. Beyond a composition-dependent critical velocity the equilibrium phases are all replaced by the quasicrystalline icosahedral and decagonal (T) phases. The icosahedral phase is favored over the T phase by higher solidification velocities. The addition of Si to Al-Mn alloys eliminates the T phase, but does not significantly facilitate the formation of the icosahedral phase by electron beam melting because the ternary α and β phases of Al-Mn-Si are able to grow rapidly into the electron beam melts.
Specific membrane receptors: pathogenetic and therapeutic implications in infectious diseases.

In the past decade, the level of our understanding of the basic nature of infectious disease processes has changed dramatically. The central idea underlying this change is the realization that there is what might be loosely termed a sociology of infectious diseases, in which host-pathogen interactions of many sorts occur, along with transfer of messages between the interacting cells. Consequently, we must face two of the most fundamental questions being asked in biology today: "What is the nature of specific cellular recognition mechanisms?" and "What is the nature of
Design Potentials of External Gear Machines With Asymmetric Tooth Profile

This paper describes the design, optimization and the performance potentials of external gear machines with asymmetric tooth profiles. Conventionally, the design of these machines is entirely based on symmetric involute profile. A design method has been developed to derive the tooth profiles based on a modified rack-cutter profile which is assumed to be used for manufacturing the gears with asymmetric involute surfaces and trochoidal fillet profiles.The study is based on the simulation tool HYGESim (HYdraulic GEar machines Simulator) which is being developed and has been validated by the authors’ research group to accurately analyze the performance of the machine. For the purpose of this research, HYGESim was adapted to simulate the particular case of non-symmetric gear profiles.A specific optimization procedure based on genetic algorithm was implemented to find the maximum performance of the new design, in terms of volumetric efficiency, fluid borne noise, internal pressure peaks and localized cavitation acting on the design parameters that characterize the tooth profile.The results of the optimization process are compared to the current state of the art for external gear machines. This comparison show very high potentials for this new design principle, particularly concerning the reduction of the fluid borne noise.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
HEART FAILURE PATIENTS WITH ELEVATED PRO-ENDOTHELIN HAVE IMPROVED MORTALITY ON STATIN THERAPY

Endothelin-1 (ET1) is a marker of endothelial dysfunction and is secreted in response to angiotensin II, shear stress, and inflammation. C-terminal pro-endothelin-1 (proET) is a precursor to ET1 that is more easily measured. Statins have pleiotropic effects, including improving endothelial function
An Investigation of Potential Performance Impacts of the Lander Descent Engine Plume on a Laser Sensing System for Precision Lunar Landing

This study addressed the potential impacts of the lander descent engine plume on operation of a lidar sensor for autonomous landing and hazard avoidance. The issue is driven by the observation that landing maneuver requirements and the desire to image the intended landing area lead readily to observation geometries in which the lidar sensor beam passes back and forth through at least the outer portions of the descent engine plume. For an assumed LOX/LH2 engine configuration (overall thrust ~ 20 klbf and throttle setting ~ 40%) we have investigated the potential plume effects on a near infrared lidar of both gaseous phase and particulate matter (specifically water droplet) constituents. For the gaseous phase portion of the plume, we find no real threat to lidar functioning from refraction, distortion, absorption, or scattering, due principally to the extremely low densities in the engine plumes starting from very short distances from the nozzle. Water droplet effects received the bulk of the attention in this study. The focus was originally motivated by published observations showing apparently significant sunlight scattering from Rocketdyne J-2 LOX/LH2 plume during Apollo 8 translunar injection. Using these results as a starting point, the analysis is scaled to the lunar lander regime, both parametrically and through application of condensation physical models. Both approaches indicate that water droplets in the plume yield negligible attenuation in lidar signal strength. It is suggested that opportunities should be sought for in-space experimental validation of these results. The results imply that the lidar-plume issue will not introduce any significant operational constraints on allowable combinations of maneuver and imaging requirement during a lidaraided lunar landing.
‘Here may we se a merveyl one’: Miracles and the Psalter in the N-Town ‘Marriage of Mary and Joseph’

A major theme of the N-Town ‘Marriage of Mary and Joseph’ is its characters’ ability to interpret religious truths by interacting with scripture or witnessing mir­acles. Mary’s reading of her psalter at the play’s ending comments upon the episode in which the miraculous ‘flowering wand’ identifies Joseph as Mary’s future hus­band. The play privileges scripture reading as a method of attaining knowledge as the psalter’s salvific power supplants the miracle of the flowering branch as a source of virtue and mercy; yet the play also affirms images like the wand flower­ing and Mary reading as devotional icons.
Study on Computer Wargaming System

The computer wargaming is a sort of special war gaming and simulation,and rests with emphasizing summarization of war experience and taking into account human factor.At the same time,it can realize the simulation of warfare course and outcome.It is significant to the development of war gaming and simulation in our army.Based on analyzing the origin,the evolution of the wargame systems of U.S.army and the development status of our army,the paper sums up emphasizely the character and function,sets up the technical architecture of the system and discusses the construct of datasets and rules,which is as one of core contents.At last,some problems are pointed out stressly,which must be considered in system modeling on the background of information operation in the future.The practices show that the research has some guidances and assistances for theory development of war gaming and simulation and project construction of the computer wargaming system.
Coalitional Game Spectrum Sensing Scheme

To help cognitive users conduct fair and efficient spectrum sensing in the cognitive environment where primary users are heterogeneous and the perceived performances of cognitive users are low due to multipath fading and shadow effect,a coalitional game spectrum sensing scheme was proposed.The spectrum sensing problem was modeled as a coalitional game with nontransferable utilities.Firstly,cognitive users are divided into several sub-coalitions,and each sub-coalition head node is selected according to head node selection principle.Secondly,merging and division of sub-coalitions are taken according to specific rules.Finally,sub-coalition head nodes use"OR"rules to do data fusion,and get final sense results and broadcast them to all cognitive users in sub-coalition.Simulated implementation and performance evaluation were done,and the results show that the proposed scheme has good performance.
CGRP-mediated changes in segmental resistances in the canine forelimb.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a 37 amino acid peptide which is found in high concentrations in the perivascular nerves innervating the resistance vessels of the peripheral circulation. In the current study we have infused CGRP at three infusion rates (.01, .1 and 1.0 micrograms/min into the brachial artery for thirty minutes at each infusion rate) in the isolated, innervated canine forelimb perfused at natural flow. We measured large artery and vein pressures, small artery and vein pressures and blood flows in both the skin and skeletal muscle circulations for the calculation of total and segmental (large artery, small vessel and large vein) vascular resistances. Infusion of the lowest dosage of CGRP produced slight vasodilation in some animals but did not significantly alter the mean resistances of all the animals as a group. The middle dosage resulted in a 55% decrease in total forelimb resistance and a small but significant decrease in systemic arterial pressure. The highest dosage of CGRP resulted in a 65% decrease in total forelimb resistance and a 34% decrease in systemic arterial pressure. The decreases in forelimb resistances were equally distributed between skin and muscle and were manifested in both large artery and small vessel resistances. The potent vasodilatory effects of CGRP and its concentration in perivascular nerves innervating the resistance vessels of the peripheral circulation suggests a potential role for CGRP in control of circulatory function under normal and/or pathophysiological conditions.
The microflora and the treatment of external otitis and otitis media.

Studies of 182 patients revealed that the microflora found in normal ears differs significantly from that found in the ears of patients with otitis externa or otitis media. The authors determined the bacterial sensitivity to common antibiotics and, on the basis of the studies, recommend a combination of polymyxin B, neomycin and bacitracin for treating external otitis and chronic otitis media. The latter condition often does not respond to antibiotic therapy, and in some cases adenoidectomy or mastoidectomy is suggested as a better treatment.
An anti-symmetric key algorithm for signal encryption

In this paper, we propose an encryption algorithm with anti-symmetric keys. The algorithm is assumed to be known to public, but the keys are kept private. The primary key (at the encryption site) is designed based on matrix transformation with the requirement that all arithmetic operations are strictly over the integer field. Therefore, there are no round off errors when the signal is deciphered at the receiver site. The anti-symmetric key algorithm is designed for constructing such a primary key in the proposed encryption scheme, which is shown to be robust against attacks.
A quasi-one-dimensional Riemann problem for the isentropic gas dynamics equations

We consider a Riemann problem for the isentropic gas dynamics equations in two space dimensions modeling shock reflection. We write the problem in self-similar coordinates and, by analyzing a quasi-one-dimensional Riemann problem at the reflection point, we derive regimes, in terms of initial data, for which solutions model the phenomenon of regular shock reflection. This sets the stage for existence analysis of solutions to this Riemann problem using the approach by Canic, Keyfitz, Kim and Lieberman on the study of two-dimensional Riemann problems for systems of conservation laws.
Who Watches the Watchmen: Roles of RNA Modifications in the RNA Interference Pathway.

RNA levels are widely thought to be predictive of RNA function. However, the existence of more than a hundred chemically distinct modifications of RNA alone is a major indication that these moieties may impart distinct functions to subgroups of RNA molecules that share a primary sequence but display distinct RNA “epigenetic” marks. RNAs can be modified on many sites, including 5′ and 3′ ends, the sugar phosphate backbone, or internal bases, which collectively provide many opportunities for posttranscriptional regulation through a variety of mechanisms. Here, we will focus on how modifications on messenger and microRNAs may affect the process of RNA interference in mammalian cells. We believe that taking RNA modifications into account will not only advance our understanding of this crucial pathway in disease and cancer but will also open the path to exploiting the enzymes that “write” and “erase” them as targets for therapeutic drug development.
Antibiotic discovery is a walk in the park.

Can you imagine New York’s Central Park as a source of the next generation of antibiotics that can treat hundreds of millions of people? The work by Charlop-Powers et al. in PNAS (1) suggests this possibility. Antibiotic-resistant microbes pose one of the main health threats of the 21st century (2). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more people die today of bacterial infections than HIV (3) and more people will die of bacterial infections than cancer by 2050 (4). Because antibiotic resistance is a global threat that affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide (5), it has become a key issue for the White House and the United Nations. In 2015, the White House developed an action plan to combat antibiotic resistance and the General Assembly of the United Nations had a high-level meeting addressing worldwide antibiotic resistance (6, 7). Most (∼75%) of today’s antibiotics are derived from natural products (2, 8). Penicillin was isolated from a fungus, and azithromycin, commonly prescribed in the form of a Z-Pak, was isolated from a bacterium (8). The period from the 1930s through the 1980s represented the “Golden Age” for the discovery of antibiotics. Since 1975, very few antibiotics have emerged (rare exceptions include vancomycin and daptomycin), and some pathogens are resistant to all known antibiotics. To combat these “superbugs,” researchers are exploring new natural sources that were missed in previous screens (3). Exotic areas, usually in regions of the planet minimally impacted by people and with high biodiversity, such as rainforests or coral reefs, are most often explored for natural sources of next-generation antibiotics. Charlop-Powers et al. (1) extracted DNA from the environment, followed by high-throughput sequencing of its genetic instructions, to reveal that your local park is an untapped resource with enormous potential for discovery … [↵][1]1To whom correspondence should be addressed. Email: pdorrestein{at}ucsd.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Improved Image Quality of Low-Dose CT Pulmonary Angiograms.

Abstract Objective The use of CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) to evaluate for pulmonary embolism has been increasing, and carries a significant radiation dose. We evaluate image quality of lower-dose images, taking into account patient size as well as the effects of image postprocessing. Methods A total of 250 CTPAs were retrospectively reviewed. The following parameters were obtained: kVp, mA, dose length product, Hounsfield units (HU) with standard deviation in the main pulmonary artery, transverse scout measurement, and subjective image quality. Results Radiation dose decreased 55% by reducing kVp from 120 to 100, and 60% from 100 to 80 kVp. Radiation dose decreased 82% from 120 to 80 kVp. Noise increased 38% from 120 kVp to 100 kVp, and increased 23% from 100 kVp to 80 kVp. Adding an overlapped reconstructed image decreased noise by 16% to 21%. Despite the increase in image noise, diagnostic quality was significantly improved at 80 and 100 kVp, compared with 120 kVp, with an average subjective quality rating of 3.8, 4.0, and 3.2, respectively, and an average pulmonary artery density of 536, 423, and 278 HU. Even in larger patients, qualitative image quality was better at 100 kVp compared with 120 kVp, with an average quality rating of 3.6 versus 2.9, respectively. Conclusions Radiation dose exposure can be easily reduced on CTPA by lowering kVp, which at the same time improves image quality. Studies using a lower kVp were of significantly higher diagnostic quality. This held true even in larger patients.
Preterm birth and ventilation decrease surface density of glomerular capillaries in lambs, regardless of postnatal respiratory support mode

Preterm birth and ventilation decrease surface density of glomerular capillaries in lambs, regardless of postnatal respiratory support mode
A Hard Analysis of Annihilation

In this paper, I use the concept of oppression as defined by feminist philosophers to define the concept of "annihilation." Oppressive systems are difficult to dismantle because they are built to rely on the very identities we use to define ourselves. In attempting to dismantle the structures of oppression, we also may have to dismantle our selves, a concept I call "annihilation." This annihilation is hard to come to terms with, as it can be extremely threatening, even more so that the oppression that also threatens to undo us. Yet, I argue that annihilation is necessary to the undoing of oppressive systems, and therefore can be a positive tool for undoing oppressive identities without leaving us self-less.
PERSPECTIVES OF PLANNED TWO-TIERED USE OF SPACE IN KANSAS CITY, NORWAY AND SWEDEN

ABSTRACT The subsurface is increasingly being used as space adjustment for otherwise congested surface functions. Planning the use of two tiers of space differs in the Kansas City approach from the Scandinavian approach. These two perspectives are treated in this paper with emphasis on a 3rd phase of planned development.
A Simple Solution to Scale-Free Internet Host Mobility

We introduce a simple solution for the support of host mobility in the Internet called DIME (Dynamic Internet Mobility for End- Systems). DIME is based on dynamic address translation between the transport and network layers of end hosts, combined with a new out-of-band protocol that updates host-address bindings between communicating hosts opportunistically. It does not require modifications to the end-host operating systems, end-user applications, existing communication protocols or hardware, or the domain name system and any host-identifier namespace. A number of experiments based on a Linux daemon implementation of DIME are used to show that DIME is deployable on a wide range of hardware, and that it outperforms existing mobility proposals such as MIPv6 and HIP across a wide range of performance metrics.
Morphological Variation in the Imperfect of hewâ in Onqelos and Jonathan

Two morphological types of the imperfect of the verb hewâ appear in Onqelos and Jonathan, namely yihwe and yehe . While the two types distinguish gender in the plural, they do not do so in the singular. Statistically, the waw type is marginal in the second and third persons singular, but well attested in the first person singular. The use of the waw type in the singular appears to be conditioned by stylistic considerations, being employed to give the impression of solemnity. It is suggested that the waw type reflects the language of the proto-targum from which it was retained.
Gut Microbiota-Produced Tryptamine Activates an Epithelial G-Protein-Coupled Receptor to Increase Colonic Secretion

Tryptamine, a tryptophan-derived monoamine similar to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is produced by gut bacteria and is abundant in human and rodent feces. However, the physiologic effect of tryptamine in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract remains unknown. Here, we show that the biological effects of tryptamine are mediated through the 5-HT4 receptor (5-HT4R), a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) uniquely expressed in the colonic epithelium. Tryptamine increases both ionic flux across the colonic epithelium and fluid secretion in colonoids from germ-free (GF) and humanized (ex-GF colonized with human stool) mice, consistent with increased intestinal secretion. The secretory effect of tryptamine is dependent on 5-HT4R activation and is blocked by 5-HT4R antagonist and absent in 5-HT4R-/- mice. GF mice colonized by Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron engineered to produce tryptamine exhibit accelerated GI transit. Our study demonstrates an aspect of host physiology under control of a bacterial metabolite that can be exploited as a therapeutic modality. VIDEO ABSTRACT.
Stabilization of Solid-State Lasers for Picosecond Transient Spectroscopy

Many recent developments in picosecond pulsed-laser technology have been motivated by the need for higher sensitivity, better measurement precision and, above all improved and reliable time-resolution in the study of primary photoprocesses. Although solid-state lasers are advantageous to us because of their intrinsic high power, they suffer from instability and the need to compromise between repetition-rate and pulse-duration.
Theoretical and Experimental Study of Laser-ultrasonic Signal Characteristics Enhanced by Wetting the Surface

This paper deals with a theoretical and experimental study to predict the characteristics of ultrasonic waves irradiated from a wet surface illuminated by a laser beam. The theoretical model is developed by assuming normal surface tractions distributed elliptically over the line-focused illumination source. The solutions for both longitudinal and shear waves are obtained using Fourier analysis, in which the transform integral is evaluated asymptotically. The theory is evidenced by the experimental study which allows for quantitative comparisons between the theoretical and experimental directivity patterns. The effects of beam width and frequency of the propagating wave, which are the most influential parameters on the characteristics of the generated wave, are investigated. The experimental results are in strong agreement with the theoretical predictions.
On control and stabilization of a rotating beam by applying moments at the base only

A decomposition-method introduced in [Le1] is used to decompose the rigid-body motion from the elastic vibration of a slowly rotating beam. On the base of the transformed system, a controller is constructed that steers all oscillations of the beam to rest in finite time. In addition, the beam is thereby driven to zero angular velocity. A second result is concerned with strong feed-back stabilizability.
Seismic Isolation Systems: Introduction and Overwiew

Seismic isolation (also often referred to as base isolation) is a technique for mitigating the effects of earthquakes on structures through the introduction of flexibility and energy absorption capability. Various practical means for introducing this desired flexibility and energy absorption capability are described.
Peace Breaker: Edwana Collins and Desegregation in Wichita Public Schools

The fight for Civil Rights in the United States has been difficult and has largely been accomplished by people who have challenged the status quo. History shows that progress and people willing to break the peace go hand in hand. Edwana Collins was one such peace breaker. On June 8, 1970, she was duly sworn and took the stand ready to testify against the Wichita Board of Education, an institution she had been part of for nearly sixteen years. Throughout her tenure on the Board of Education, Collins was a needed advocate for desegregation in Wichita Public Schools and fought to give African American families a voice within the school system. Through a study of her personal papers, Board of Education documents, local newspapers, and the civil rights movement in Wichita as a whole, one can trace her efforts toward integration, from her early work as president of the Board, creating and serving on committees designed to research the underlying issues contributing to segregation, her commitment to advocating for the African American parents, and her ultimate act of peace breaking, testifying against the Board of Education. Though she was not alone in her fight against inequality, her efforts demonstrate that individuals can be agents of change within their communities.