cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Knowledge for sale – the benefits and effects of off-shoring knowledge-based jobs in engineering, design, and R&D – a case study

A framework consisting of a conceptual model and a closed-loop knowledge work outsourcing decision model is developed. A process flow model of a medical device company's product development function is analysed, where this framework is applied to understand various outsourcing options for the company. The conceptual framework describes major attributes related to outsourcing decisions, parameters associated with various attributes and the relationship intensity of parameters with three knowledge work outsourcing options – in-house, near-shoring, and off-shoring. The proposed model is closed loop, emphasizing the importance of regular re-evaluation needed for an off-shored function. The modeling framework contributes to a company's decision whether or not a particular knowledge-based function should either be kept in-house, near-sourced or off-shored. The general perception of off-shoring is to reduce costs but, the proposed model takes into account additional factors such as, market accessibility, strategic partnership, reduced time to regional market, access to overseas talent pool, and governmental incentives, etc. These factors play a vital role in determining an outsourced function. The paper discusses various options and makes recommendations for tapping into technological advancements around the world, their effects on supply chain management and other competitive advantages presented by off-shoring.
Ultrawideband Antennas for Multiband Satellite Communications at UHF–Ku Frequencies

In space-borne applications, reduction of size, weight, and power can be critical. Pursuant to this goal, we present an ultrawideband, tightly coupled dipole array (TCDA) capable of supporting numerous satellite communication bands, simultaneously. Such antennas enable weight reduction by replacing multiple antennas. In addition, it provides spectral efficiency by reusing intermediate frequencies for inter-satellite communication. For ease of fabrication, the array is initially designed for operation across the UHF, L, S, and lower-C bands (0.6–3.6 GHz), with emphasis on dual-linear polarization, and wide-angle scanning. The array achieves a minimum 6:1 bandwidth for VSWR less than 1.8, 2.4, and 3.1 for 0°, 45°, and 60° scans, respectively. The presented design represents the first practical realization of dual polarizations using a TCDA topology. This is accomplished through a dual-offset, split unit cell with minimized inter-feed coupling. Array simulations are verified with measured results of an ${\bf{8}}\times {\bf{8}}$ prototype, exhibiting very low cross polarization and near-theoretical gain across the band. Further, we present a TCDA design operating across the upper-S, C, X, and Ku bands (3–18 GHz). The array achieves this 6:1 bandwidth for VSWR $ at broadside, and VSWR $ at 45°. A discussion on design and fabrication for low-cost arrays operating at these frequencies is included.
Non-modal melting in an upwelling mantle column: Steady-state models with applications to REE depletion in abyssal peridotites and the dynamics of melt migration in the mantle

Abstract Simple models for trace element fractionation during concurrent melting and melt migration in an upwelling steady-state mantle were developed. Based on petrologic considerations, we divided the mantle column into two regions: a single-lithology lower region that consists of partially molten garnet and spinel lherzolites and a double-lithology upper region where high-porosity dunite channels or melt-filled fractures are embedded in a porous lherzolite/harzburgite matrix. Analytical solutions for the case of a constant and uniform relative melting suction rate and a linearly variable relative melt suction rate were obtained. Key parameters and the first order characteristics of melting and melt migration in a 1-D steady-state mantle column were examined through forward calculations and Monte Carlo simulations. Melting in the upwelling single-lithology column is equivalent to non-modal batch melting, whereas melting and melt migration in the double-lithology region can be viewed as a nonlinear combination of batch melting and fractional melting, depending on the amount of melt extracted to the channel. The degree of melting (F), the degree of melting at the depth of melt-channel initiation (Fd) and the relative rate of melt suction ( R ) are important in controlling the extent of depletion of the incompatible trace element in the matrix. Spatially variable R affects the abundance of an incompatible trace element in the melt and residual solid the most in near fractional melting. There is a strong nonlinear trade off among the three parameters. Given Fd, it is possible to constrain F and R from incompatible trace element abundances in residual peridotite. To explore the dynamics of melt migration in the mantle, we used the two melting models developed in this study and published REE and Y abundances in diopside in abyssal peridotites from the Central Indian Ridge to infer their melting and melt migration history. Overall, the degrees of melting inferred from the trace element data are not sensitive to the value of Fd used in the inversion and ranges from 10% to 15%. The relative rate of melt suction depends slightly on the choice of Fd and ranges from 0.85 to 1.0 for Fd = 0.05 and 0.75 to 0.97 for Fd = 0. Further, the estimated R is inversely correlated with F, a robust feature independent of the choice of Fd. The upward decrease of R in an upwelling mantle column can be understood in terms of melt focusing in the lower part of the double-lithology region. And finally, given F and R , we found that the permeability and porosity of the lherzolite/harzburgite matrix also increase as a function of F in the melting column, with melt fractions ranging from 0.2% to 0.7% for a grain size of 5 mm.
National survey of non-small cell lung cancer in the United States: Epidemiology, pathology and patterns of care

Summary Purpose To determine the epidemiology, pathology and patterns of care for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in the United States. Methods In 2001 the National Cancer Data Base, under direction of the American College of Surgeons, conducted a patient care evaluation study in 719 hospitals. We collected information on patient demographics and histories, diagnostic and staging methods, pathology, and initial treatment. Results Information on 40,909 patients was obtained; 93% were smokers. Slightly more than half were older than 70 years; 58.5% were male and 35% had adenocarcinoma. Comorbid conditions were present in 71.8% and 22% had a prior malignancy. A chest CT scan was performed in 92% of patients and PET scans in 19.3%. Mediastinoscopy was performed in 20.3%. 67.2% of patients had Stage III or IV disease. More of the Hispanic, Asian or Black patients than White had Stage IV disease ( p Conclusion Our results substantiated the pattern of increasing proportions of women with NSCLC and the increasing frequency of adenocarcinoma. Most patients presented with Stage III or IV disease. Ethnic minorities were more likely to present in late stage disease than Whites. Treatment strategies depended more on stage and age than comorbid burden. Older patients were less likely to receive surgery and more likely to be treated with radiation only or have no treatment.
Complications after patello-femoral versus total knee replacement in the treatment of isolated patello-femoral osteoarthritis. A meta-analysis

Both patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are successful in treating isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis, but the complication rates after PFA are concerning. We performed a meta-analysis to compare the incidence of complications, re-operations, and revision following PFA and TKA for patellofemoral osteoarthritis. We systematically identified publications with patients who underwent PFA or TKA for patellofemoral osteoarthritis with minimum 1.5 year follow-up. Demographics, implant (TKA, first [1G] or second-generation [2G] PFA), complications, and cause of re-operations were extracted. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool incidence data, which was compared between groups using logistic regression to adjust for length of follow-up. Twenty-eight observational studies and no randomized trials were included in this meta-analysis, which limits its generalizability. There was a higher likelihood of any re-operation (odds ratio 8.06) and revision (OR 8.11) in PFA compared to TKA. Re-operation (OR 4.33) and revision (OR 4.93) were more likely in 1G-PFA than 2G-PFA. When comparing 2G-PFA to TKA, there was no significant difference in re-operation, revision, pain, or mechanical complications. Patients who undergo PFA rather than TKA are more likely to experience complications and require re-operation or revision, but subgroup analysis suggests a relation to implant design. There is no significant difference in re-operation, revision, pain, or mechanical complications between 2G-PFA and TKA. Systematic review of Level III therapeutic studies, Level III.
Description and prescription: How gender stereotypes prevent women's ascent up the organizational ladder.

This review article posits that the scarcity of women at the upper levels of organizations is a consequence of gender bias in evaluations. It is proposed that gender stereotypes and the expectations they produce about both what women are like (descriptive) and how they should behave (prescriptive) can result in devaluation of their performance, denial of credit to them for their successes, or their penalization for being competent. The processes giving rise to these outcomes are explored, and the procedures that are likely to encourage them are identified. Because of gender bias and the way in which it influences evaluations in work settings, it is argued that being competent does not ensure that a woman will advance to the same organizational level as an equivalently performing man.
Priors and component structures in autoregressive time series models

New approaches to prior specification and structuring in autoregressive time series models are introduced and developed. We focus on defining classes of prior distributions for parameters and latent variables related to latent components of an autoregressive model for an observed time series. These new priors naturally permit the incorporation of both qualitative and quantitative prior information about the number and relative importance of physically meaningful components that represent low frequency trends, quasi-periodic subprocesses and high frequency residual noise components of observed series. The class of priors also naturally incorporates uncertainty about model order and hence leads in posterior analysis to model order assessment and resulting posterior and predictive inferences that incorporate full uncertainties about model order as well as model parameters. Analysis also formally incorporates uncertainty and leads to inferences about unknown initial values of the time series, as it does for predictions of future values. Posterior analysis involves easily implemented iterative simulation methods, developed and described here. One motivating field of application is climatology, where the evaluation of latent structure, especially quasi-periodic structure, is of critical importance in connection with issues of global climatic variability. We explore the analysis of data from the southern oscillation index, one of several series that has been central in recent high profile debates in the atmospheric sciences about recent apparent trends in climatic indicators.
On the rate of triplet excitation transfer in the diffusive limit

Abstract The usefulness of spectral data in estimating intermolecular triplet excitation transfer rates is found to be rather limited and to depend explicitly on the mechanisms which allow the optical transitions. Necessary conditions for the validity of such use of spectra and given, and the otherwise required correction factors are discussed and estimated.
Staged protocol for initial management of the dislocated knee

The purpose of this study was (1) to describe a staged protocol for management of the dislocated knee and (2) to describe clinical and functional outcomes for patients who received initial spanning external fixation as part of this protocol. Nine knees in 9 patients, consisting of 6 males and 3 females, mean age 30.4 (range 19–44) years with diagnosis or presumption of knee dislocation were treated with a protocol of stabilization with external fixator. Mean follow-up was 24 (range 13–42) months. Indications for spanning external fixation included significant vascular injury, gross instability on examination with failure to maintain joint reduction, open knee dislocation, inability to tolerate mobilization in a brace. The standard protocol involved vascular examination including ankle-brachial index, ligamentous examination (under anesthesia when applicable), stabilization with temporary joint spanning external fixator, thromboprophylaxis, reconstructive knee surgery, and standard rehabilitation. Mean range of motion (ROM) was 97.4° (range 80°–150°, SD 20.75, median 127.5). Median IKDC score was 80 (range 30–95), and mean Lysholm score was 76.7 (range 46–95). Heterotopic ossification (HO) was noted in 4 knees (44%). The treatment algorithm utilized in this series for management of the dislocated knee demonstrated satisfactory clinical and functional outcomes. This staged protocol provides a management option for those patients who may be best served with initial spanning joint external fixation. Larger prospective studies are needed to fully understand the merit of staged protocols in this setting.
Do Exotics Homogenize or Differentiate Communities? Roles of Sampling and Exotic Species Richness

It is commonly asserted that exotic species promote the homogenization of biological communities. However, theoretical evidence implies that exotic species may often have the opposite effect, of differentiating biological communities where different exotic species become established in different areas. Furthermore, few empirical studies have directly measured the homogenizing effects of exotics. In this study, I used the plant inventories of 20 localities in the United States to measure whether exotic plant increased the similarity of those localities. I calculated Jaccard's index of similarity (JI) for exotic species and then for native species to see if the exotic JI was consistently higher when comparing two localities. I found that JI for both exotic and native species decline exponentially with increasing distance and latitude separation between localities so that localities that share many native species also tend to share many exotic species. More importantly, in nearly half of the pairwise locality comparisons (87 of 190), the (JIexotic/JInative) ratio is less than one, indicating a slight tendency for exotic species to differentiate rather than homogenize the localities analyzed. Also, the pattern of differentiation versus homogenization is strongly related to exotic species richness. When both localities have relatively few exotics, there is a clear tendency for exotics to produce biotic differentiation (JIexotic/JInative < 1). Much of this pattern seems related to the right-skewed frequency distribution of the geographic ranges of exotic species. As with native species, most exotics occur in few localities so there is a high probability that localities with low numbers of exotic species will share very few, if any, of those exotics. As exotic richness increases, the homogenizing effects become increasingly pronounced.
A brief Rutgers Alcohol Problem Index with less potential for bias

The Rutgers Alcohol Problem Index (RAPI), a popular measure of alcohol-related problems in adolescents, varies with many theoretically-relevant measures of individual differences, including sex. The sex differences in RAPI scores fit many models of alcohol problems but could also arise from biased items. In addition, a short form could increase the scale's utility. The current study examined RAPI scores, an additional inventory of problem drinking, and measures of alcohol consumption in over 2000 college student drinkers. Analyses revealed items that functioned differentially for men and women. Dropping these items created a shorter scale with almost identical psychometric properties but less potential for bias. Correlations with drinking habits and drinking problems were the same as those for the full scale, and the size of the effect for the difference between men and women's responses remained essentially the same. These results confirm previous work using different analytic approaches, and suggest that a short form of the RAPI could prove helpful in future research. In addition, these data suggest that analyses of differential item functioning in other scales can reveal important information about the measurement of drug problems.
Dimethyl-Celecoxib (DMC), a derivative of celecoxib that lacks cyclooxygenase-2-Inhibitory function, potently mimics the anti-tumor effects of celecoxib on burkitt’s lymphoma in vitro and in vivo

The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) celecoxib is a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor that has shown some promising results as an anti-cancer drug. However, the question arose as to whether or not its COX-2-inhibitory function is required for its anti-tumorigenic properties. We therefore employed dimethyl-celecoxib (DMC), which is a close structural analog of celecoxib that lacks COX-2-inhibitory function, to investigate this question. By performing a combination of in vitro and in vivo studies with Burkitt’s lymphoma cells, we found that DMC potently mimics all of the anti-proliferative and anti-tumorigenic effects of celecoxib. In cell culture, DMC effectively inhibits cell proliferation through the down-regulation of cyclins A and B and the ensuing loss of cyclin-dependent kinase activity. This effect appears to take place in vivo as well and results in significantly (p
Theory of the Stimulated Raman Effect in Plasmas

The stimulated Raman effect in gaseous plasmas is investigated by means of a coupled-mode analysis. A macroscopic representation for the electron density fluctuations is employed, and is shown to reduce to previous results on the optical pumping of plasmas. The Raman threshold power levels calculated are currently achievable in giant-pulse ruby lasers, but the available laser pulse durations are too brief to allow observable amounts of Raman radiation to build up from the thermal noise background, in the case of ordinary plasmas. However, the effect may possibly be observable in the laser-produced type of plasma.
Water loss from the eggs of a tropical sea bird (Pterodroma phaeopygia) at high altitude

Abstract 1. 1. The water loss from the eggs of the dark-rumped petrel nesting at an altitude of 3000m in the Hawaiian Islands was studied. 2. 2. The conditions at the nest site were extremely dry and the calculated nest ventilation was very low (17.21/day). 3. 3. Comparisons with data from other Procellariiformes nesting at sea level suggested that the daily rate of water loss from the eggs of the dark-rumped petrel was high (134.5% of the predicted value for a procellariiform egg at sea level). 4. 4. The egg shells were thin and the shell mass was low—83.9% and 73.5%, respectively, of the values predicted for a procellariiform egg at sea level. 5. 5. It is believed that these features of the eggs are related to the altitude of the nesting site.
Sphingosine inhibits angiotensin-stimulated aldosterone synthesis.

Abstract Sphingosine and other protein kinase C inhibitors were tested for their ability to inhibit aldosterone synthesis by bovine adrenal glomerulosa cells. Sphingosine inhibited angiotensin (AII)-stimulated aldosterone synthesis (IC 5 pf 5 μM). At doses that totally blocked steroidogenesis, sphingosine did not affect protein synthesis or [ 125 I]AII binding to cells. Sphingosine also inhibited dibutyryl cyclic AMP (dbcAMP)-stimulated aldosterone synthesis. Sphingosine inhibited pregnenolone synthesis from cholesterol, but not the conversion of progesterone or 20α-hydroxycholesterol to aldosterone. These results suggest that sphingosine inhibits steroidogenesis at a locus close to that where stimulation occurs by AII and dbcAMP. Other protein kinase C inhibitors were tested. Retinal, 1-(5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)-2-methyl- piperazine dihydrochloride (H-7), and staurosporine inhibited aldosterone synthesis stimulated by AII and dbcAMP. Retinal and H-7 also inhibited progesterone conversion to aldosterone, and retinal blocked [ 125 I]AII binding. Staurosporine was more specific, inhibiting AII-stimulated aldosteronogenesis at concentrations which had little effect on conversion of progesterone to aldosterone. Because they inhibited dbcAMP stimulation, none of the inhibitors was sufficiently specific to use as a probe of the role of protein kinase C. The IC 50 of sphingosine suggests that this or related products of lipid hydrolysis could act as endogenous regulators of adrenal cell function.
Vertebrate paleoecology of the Chinle formation (Late Triassic) of the Southwestern United States

Abstract The Late Triassic Chinle Formation is an extensive series of fluvial and lacustrine sediments exposed mostly in the Colorado Plateau region. Fossil vertebrates occur in local concentrations throughout the vertical and horizontal extent of the formation, although the most diverse accumulations occur within the Petrified Forest Member in Arizona and New Mexico. Successive faunas are known from the Lower and Upper Units of the Petrified Forest Member and can be subdivided into terrestrial and aquatic communities. Faunal turnover occurs among herbivores, phytosaurs, and metoposaurs between the Lower and Upper Units. No major change is observed in fish faunas throughout Chinle deposition. Mass accumulations of vertebrate fossils in the Chinle occurred on floodplains, in bogs and small ponds, and in or near fluvial channels. Paleontological and sedimentological evidence supports the interpretation of Chinle paleoclimates as having significant precipitation but being strongly seasonal. Vertebrate occurrences do not clearly reflect the gradual aridification at the end of Chinle deposition suggested by sedimentological study.
Impaired endothelial-dependent forearm vascular relaxation in black Americans.

Background Hypertension is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the general population and has an even more significant impact on the black community in particular. Explaining the interethnic differences has been difficult. Differences in endothelial function may provide some insight into the causes of the increased incidence of hypertension in the black population versus their white cohorts. Methods In this study 16 black subjects and 12 white subjects received brachial artery infusions of acetylcholine (12.5, 25, and 50 μg/min) and angiotensin II (3.82, 9.55, and 19.10 ng/min). Measurement of forearm vascular resistance by venous occlusion plethysmography was conducted. Results The dose of acetylcholine at 50% maximal observed response (EC50) for black subjects was 10.6 ± 2.39 μg/min and 3.3 ± 0.44 μg/min in the white subjects (mean ± SEM; P < .05). Sodium nitroprusside infusions at 1 and 2 μg/min did not cause a significant difference in response between the 2 groups. After angiotensin II was infused, forearm vascular resistance Emax was 3.42 ± 0.78 mm Hg/100 mL tissue volume/min for black subjects and 3.16 ± 0.99 mm Hg/100 mL tissue volume/min for white subjects. Conclusion This study shows impaired endothelial-dependent forearm vascular relaxation as measured by decreased acetylcholine response in black subjects. This impairment in endothelial function may contribute to the increased incidence of hypertension in black subjects compared with white subjects. Mechanisms for this finding warrant further investigation. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (1999) 65, 408–412; doi:
Future directions in CP violation

Abstract Ongoing experiments seeking CP violating effects in the neuron dipole moment and in e 1 / e are at the stage where they will yield critical constraints on attempts to pinpoint the origin of this phenomenon. A number of additional experiments which appear promising in this regard are proposed.
BiSNET: A biologically-inspired middleware architecture for self-managing wireless sensor networks

This paper describes BiSNET (Biologically-inspired architecture for Sensor NETworks), a middleware architecture that addresses several key issues in multi-modal wireless sensor networks (MWSNs) such as autonomy, scalability, adaptability, self-healing and simplicity. Based on the observation that various biological systems have developed mechanisms to overcome these issues, BiSNET follows certain biological principles such as decentralization, food gathering/storage and natural selection to design MWSN applications. In BiSNET, each application consists of multiple software agents, which operate on the BiSNET middleware platform in individual sensor nodes, and each agent exploits certain biologically-inspired mechanisms such as energy exchange, pheromone emission, replication, migration and death. This is analogous to a bee colony (application) consisting of multiple bees (agents). This paper describes the biologically-inspired mechanisms in BiSNET, and evaluates their impacts on the autonomy, scalability, adaptability, self-healing and simplicity of MWSNs. Simulation results show that BiSNET allows sensor nodes (agents and platforms) to be scalable with respect to network size, autonomously adapt their sleep periods for power efficiency and responsiveness of data collection, adaptively aggregate data from different types of sensor nodes, and collectively self-heal (i.e., detect and eliminate) false positive sensor data. The BiSNET platform is implemented simple in its design and lightweight in its memory footprint.
Oligocholate Foldamers as Carriers for Hydrophilic Molecules across Lipid Bilayers

Three cholate foldamers were synthesized by the click reaction between an azide-functionalized cholate trimer and different dialkynyl linkers. The foldamers were labeled with pyrene groups at the ends for their conformational study. The linkers between the two tricholate fragments were found to strongly influence the conformation of the foldamers in solution, as well as their ability to transport hydrophilic molecules across lipid bilayers. The folding of the oligocholates in mixed organic solvents was studied by fluorescence and UV/Vis spectroscopy. Although these molecules could not fold permanently in lipid bilayers, they were found to translocate carboxyfluorescein readily across by a carrier-based mechanism. The transport is proposed to happen when the oligocholates adopt transiently folded structures with a hydrophobic exterior and a hydrophilic internal cavity. The transport rate strongly depended on the structure of the oligocholates and was sensitive even to the change of a single bond in a foldamer 3000 Da in MW. Better folded oligocholates in solution gave slower transport in the membranes.
Microstructure Evolution During Alternating-Current-Induced Fatigue

Subjecting electronic interconnect lines to high-density, low-frequency alternating current creates cyclic thermomechanical stresses that eventually cause electrical failure. A detailed understanding of the failure process could contribute to both prevention and diagnostics. We tested unpassivated Al-1Si traces on the NIST-2 test chip; these are 3.5 μm wide by 0.5 μm thick by 800 μm long, with a strong (111) as-deposited fiber texture and an initial average grain diameter of approximately 1 μm. We applied rms current densities of 11.7 to 13.2 MA/cm2 at 100 Hz. Resistance changes in the lines indicated that such current densities produce temperature cycles at 200 Hz with amplitude exceeding 100 K. Open circuits occurred in under 10 minutes, with substantial surface damage seen after only one minute. A few failures initiated at lithography defects initially present in the lines, but most were produced by the current alone. In one detailed example presented in this paper, we monitored the damage process by interrupting the current at 10, 20, 40, 80, 160, and 320 s in order to characterize an entire line by scanning electron microscopy and automated electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD); failure took place after 697 s. Results are described in terms of deformation, grain growth, and orientation changes.© 2004 ASME
Plasma insulin-like growth factor-I concentration during the reproductive cycle of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis).

Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) is involved in the growth, reproduction, and development of vertebrates. In this study, we report plasma IGF-I concentrations throughout the reproductive cycle of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) and consider these concentrations with respect to several reproductive steroid hormones and ions involved in reptilian reproduction. Mean plasma IGF-I concentrations were significantly different among reproductive stages. Maximal plasma concentrations of IGF-I were observed throughout gravidity. Plasma IGF-I concentration was not correlated with plasma concentrations of estradiol-17b, calcium, phosphorus, albumin, total protein, or body size, but was correlated with plasma progesterone concentration. We hypothesize that the elevated concentrations of IGF-I in gravid female alligators are due to the synthesis of this hormone for incorporation into eggs as well as residual IGF-I that could function in the stimulation of uterine secretoryproducts. r 1996 Academic Press, Inc. Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) are polypeptide hormones involved in the regulation of vertebrate metabolism, reproduction, development, and growth. Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II), and proinsulin have similar primary and tertiary protein structures and are proposed to have originated from a gene duplication early in vertebrate evolution (Chanet al.,1990). Supporting this hypothesis, theAtlantic hagfish (Myxine glutinosa,class Agnatha) has separate insulin and IGF genes (Chan et al., 1981) and most other vertebrates studied to date
Saccharomyces cerevisiae Duo1p and Dam1p, Novel Proteins Involved in Mitotic Spindle Function

In this paper, we describe the identification and characterization of two novel and essential mitotic spindle proteins, Duo1p and Dam1p. Duo1p was isolated because its overexpression caused defects in mitosis and a mitotic arrest. Duo1p was localized by immunofluorescence, by immunoelectron microscopy, and by tagging with green fluorescent protein (GFP), to intranuclear spindle microtubules and spindle pole bodies. Temperature-sensitive duo1 mutants arrest with short spindles. This arrest is dependent on the mitotic checkpoint. Dam1p was identified by two-hybrid analysis as a protein that binds to Duo1p. By expressing a GFP–Dam1p fusion protein in yeast, Dam1p was also shown to be associated with intranuclear spindle microtubules and spindle pole bodies in vivo. As with Duo1p, overproduction of Dam1p caused mitotic defects. Biochemical experiments demonstrated that Dam1p binds directly to microtubules with micromolar affinity. We suggest that Dam1p might localize Duo1p to intranuclear microtubules and spindle pole bodies to provide a previously unrecognized function (or functions) required for mitosis.
Vocal and Gestural Imitation in 8-, 14-, and 20-Month-Old Children

Summary Selected vocal and gestural imitation items were presented to 24 8-, 14-, and 20-month-old boys and girls in an elicited task situation. Generally, both vocal and gestural imitation increased with age, although for each age group there was significantly more gestural than vocal imitation. Various types ofvocal and gestural imitation were not significantly correlated with each other. Vocal imitation was positively correlated with estimated vocabulary for both 14- and 20-month-olds. Results were interpreted as suggesting that imitation is not a unitary ability and that vocal imitation may be one strategy useful in vocabulary building.
The Evolution of the Colorado Spiderwort

UNTIL recently the name Tradescantia virginiana, of Linnaeus, was made to include a multitude of forms, without discrimination. However, as we go from east to west we observe a marked change in the spiderworts, corresponding with an equally marked change in climate. The more eastern forms of moist regions are tall and rank, with bright green foliage. The true virginiana has the pedicels and sepals villous, the hairs not glandular, and does not in any way suggest a xerophyte. In the middle west are two forms, T. occidentalis (Britton), bright green, but with narrow leaves and usually smaller flowers, the pedicels and sepals with gland-tipped hairs, and T. reflexa, Raf., glaucous, the pedicels glabrous, the sepals with a tuft of hairs at the apex. The latter is more especially southern, and is said to extend even to Florida. Still further west we find in New Mexico another form, T. scopulorum, of Rose, slender and much branched, glaucous, with glabrous pedicels and, smooth sepals. Still again, we have in Colorado a distinct plant, which I have named T. universitatis.1 This is strongly glaucous, robust, but not very tall, pedicels glabrous, with a very few gland-hairs, sepals glandular-pilose. The leaves are broad (the sheathing bases 12 mm. to 13 mm. wide), and the flowers are about 35 mm. across. There is no sign of any tuft of hairs at the apex of the sepals.
Direct measurement of glomerular capillary pressure in dogs.

AbstractDirect measurement of glomerular capillary pressure, without removing cortical tissue from the micropuncture site, was the objective of this study. The measurement was accomplished by random micropuncture below the kidney surface with simultaneous recording of pressure at the tip of the micropuncture pipet. Glomerular capillary pressure was identified by a stable, pulsatile tracing synchronous with renal artery pressure or blood flow. In 50 micropunctures in 16 dogs glomerular capillary pressure was 56 ± 3 mm Hg. Mean arterial pressure averaged 127 ± 3 mm Hg. The conclusion that pulsatile pressure recorded during random micropuncture resulted from impalement of glomerular capillaries is supported by experiments in Munich Wistar rats. In 14 rats there was no significant difference between pressure measured either in superficial glomeruli (46 ± 1 mm Hg) or during random micropuncture (47 ± 1 mm Hg).
Elastic proton scattering from 4He at 0.58 and 0.72 GeV

Abstract The energy spectra of α-particles recoiling from a 4He gas target bombarded by 0.58 and 0.72 GeV protons have been measured to obtain the differential cross sections for elastic scattering d σ d t , in the region of four-momentum transfer squared, −t=0.13 − 0.55 (GeV/c)2. The experiment was designed especially to observe the region between the first and second diffraction maxima.
Carbon Monoxide and Carotid Body Chemoreception

It is being increasingly recognized that endogenously generated carbon monoxide (CO) functions as a chemical messenger in the nervous system. CO is released during the breakdown of heme to biliverdin by the enzyme heme oxygenase (HO). Two isoforms of HO have been identified: HO-1 is an inducible form and is found predominantly in spleen and liver; HO-2 is constitutive and is widely distributed in brain and nervous tissues (Verma et al, 1993). We have recently reported that HO-2 is present in the carotid bodies where it is found primarily in the glomus cells (Prabhakar et al, 1995). More importantly, we showed that zinc protoporphyrin-9 (ZnPP-9), an inhibitor of HO, increased chemoreceptor activity, suggesting that endogenous CO is inhibitory to carotid body (CB) activity. In the present study we assessed cellular mechanisms by which endogenous CO modulates CB activity. It is generally accepted that Ca2+-dependent neurotransmitter release from glomus cells plays an important role in transduction of a hypoxic stimulus by the CB. Therefore, we tested the idea that endogenous CO exerts its effects on carotid body sensory activity in part by regulating cytosolic calcium ([Ca2+]I) in glomus cells. To test this possibility we monitored [Ca2+]I and ion channel activities in glomus cells in response to ZnPP-9, an inhibitor of CO synthesis.
Sensor-fusion center communication over multiaccess fading channels

We study the problem of communicating sensor readings over a multiaccess channel. Previous works focused on the approach that each sensor is allocated an orthogonal channel to transmit its data as in TDMA (time-division multiple access). In this paper, we propose an. alternative method in which the sensors transmit simultaneously to deliver a noisy version of the type of sensor observations. We analyze the estimation/detection performance of this type-based multiple access (TBMA) approach in inferring a parameter /spl theta/. The data at different sensors are modeled as conditionally independent given /spl theta/. An asymptotic performance analysis is presented, and significant gains in estimation/detection performance and bandwidth usage are demonstrated.
Computerized Evaluation of Abnormal Hand Bone Patterns in Skeletal Dysplasias

Assessment of bone disproportion is one of the routine radiological procedures frequently performed at a skeletal dysplasia diagnosis center. The existing knowledge on skeletal dysplasia patterns is more qualitative than quantitative, and the commonly applied diagnostic procedure is the manual, atlas-based evaluation of radiographs (including the hand) by an expert. A computer-aided diagnosis package (CAD) for bone age assessment was improved to analyze hand radiographs of skeletal dysplasia subjects with manifested hand bone abnormalities. The CAD software can automatically measure the lengths of phalangeal bones, compare them with those obtained from normal subjects collected in the Digital Hand Atlas (DHA), and recognize selected abnormality patterns. We have tested our method based on brachydactyly type A cases from the skeletal dysplasia diagnosis center that were matched with subjects from DHA in the age range of 2-12 years. New quantitative results obtained from this study have the potential to enrich the qualitative criteria currently utilized in the manual evaluation of abnormal bones, and thereby improve the performance of the diagnostic procedure.
Relationships of incubational hatching egg characteristics to posthatch body weight and processing yield in Ross × Ross 708 broilers

Abstract The characteristics of broiler hatching eggs have the potential to effect broiler posthatch growth and processing yield. The association of set egg weight (SEW), length of incubation (LI), and mean daily percentage of incubational weight loss (MDPEWL) of embryonated Ross × Ross 708 broiler hatching eggs with subsequent posthatch BW and processing yield was investigated. Sixty Ross × Ross 708 broiler hatching eggs were randomly set on each of 8 replicate tray levels of an incubator. Weight loss of individual embryonated eggs between 0 and 10.5, 10.5 and 18.5, and 0 and 18.5 d of incubation was determined for the calculation of MDPEWL. Furthermore, on 18.5 d of incubation, embryonated eggs were transferred to a hatcher unit where they were individually monitored for hatch every 12 h for determination of LI. Chicks were placed in corresponding replicate floor pens and were grown out from 0 (21.5 d of incubation) to 49 d posthatch. Live bird BW as a percentage of SEW on 21.0 d of incubation and d 0 and 49 posthatch, and bird sex on d 49 posthatch were determined. After commercial processing, carcass weight as a percentage of SEW, and carcass, abdominal fat pad, wings, breast muscle, tenders, drumsticks, and thighs weights as percentages of live BW were determined. Bird BW on 21.0 d of incubation and on d 0 and 49 posthatch were positively correlated or interrelated with SEW. Between 0 and 10.5 d of incubation, MDPEWL was negatively correlated with absolute and relative BW on 21.0 d of incubation, absolute BW on d 0 posthatch, and relative tenders weight. Further, LI was positively correlated with absolute and relative BW on 21.0 d of incubation and d 0 posthatch, but was negatively correlated with relative (percentage of live BW) carcass weight on d 49 posthatch. The MDPEWL of modern strain broiler hatching eggs should be closely monitored, particularly during the first half of incubation, for the regulation of LI and hatchling BW and for their potential effects on processing yield characteristics.
Heterosis Is Prevalent for Multiple Traits in Diverse Maize Germplasm

Background: Heterosis describes the superior phenotypes observed in hybrids relative to their inbred parents. Maize is a model system for studying heterosis due to the high levels of yield heterosis and commercial use of hybrids. Methods: The inbred lines from an association mapping panel were crossed to a common inbred line, B73, to generate nearly 300 hybrid genotypes. Heterosis was evaluated for seventeen phenotypic traits in multiple environments. The majority of hybrids exhibit better-parent heterosis in most of the hybrids measured. Correlations between the levels of heterosis for different traits were generally weak, suggesting that the genetic basis of heterosis is trait-dependent. Conclusions: The ability to predict heterosis levels using inbred phenotype or genetic distance between the parents varied for the different traits. For some traits it is possible to explain a significant proportion of the heterosis variation using linear modeling while other traits are more difficult to predict.
Rescreening Memory Beyond the Wall

This essay analyzes futurity in relation to the themes of Ostalgie, or nostalgia for the East, and Indianerfilme, East German western genre films, in The Last Cowboy, a 1998 DVD artwork by international artist pair Nomad and one of the first artworks ever made for DVD. Borrowing analytical frameworks from digital media theory and aesthetics, the essay suggests alternatives to the liberal–humanist binary logic of exclusion, substitution, and exchange implicit in many discussions of German cultural experience after the Wende. Rather than projecting desire for community and shared cultural memory onto an idealized, “utopian” past, The Last Cowboy locates them in an engaging frontier of representational possibility that might become the foundation for a more inclusive future and for new ways of conceptualizing cultural memory.
Linear and nonlinear baroclinic instability with rigid sidewalls

The behaviour of baroclinic waves growing from instability in a two-layer channel flow with rigid (no-slip) sidewalls is described and contrasted with that for the more traditional free-slip boundary conditions. The linear theory for the onset of small-amplitude disturbances shows that the change in lateral boundary conditions has only a modest effect for typical laboratory parameter values, although the no-slip case is slightly more unstable at very small values of bottom friction. On the other hand, the nonlinear evolution of no-slip modes is completely different. While the free-slip case becomes aperiodic only at large values of the supercriticality (F-F c )/F c , the rigid wall case can be subcritically chaotic. Aperiodic, highly nonlinear wave motions are possible for external control values set in the linearly stable region of parameter space. Weakly nonlinear analysis shows that the no-slip case has a negative Landau constant for moderately small values of bottom friction, and it is in this regime that high-resolution numerical simulations exhibit subcritical chaos. At larger values of bottom friction, the rigid-wall simulations undergo a supercritical quasi-periodic transition to chaos at modest, order one, supercriticality, which is substantially smaller than that required for chaos in the free-slip case
FINE STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN UTERINE SMOOTH MUSCLE AND FIBROBLASTS IN RESPONSE TO ESTROGEN

The fine structure of the estrogen-primed uterus was examined in two series of rats, with emphasis upon the alterations in smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts. The first series of animals were mature animals that were sacrificed at diestrus or estrus. The second series consisted of prepubertal rats (57-70 g) that received subcutaneous injections of estradiol-17 beta in 20% alcohol. Four groups of animals received the hormone twice daily for 3 days for a total dose of 0.06, 0.6, 6.0, or 60.0 microg, respectively. An estrogenic response was observed in all groups as indicated by an increase in uterine weight. Control groups consisted of either untreated animals or animals receiving 20% alcohol. All animals were sacrificed on the 4th day. The fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells in the controls were similar to their counterparts in the mature animal in diestrus. They were small, contained relatively little rough endoplasmic reticulum, and the connective tissue cells appeared like fibrocytes. All of the estrogen-treated animals were similar in appearance and were comparable to their counterparts in the mature animal in estrus. Both the smooth muscle cells and the fibroblasts were increased in size, demonstrated a marked enlargement and dilation of ergastoplasmic cisternae, and contained increased numbers of attached and free cytoplasmic ribosomes. The presence of an extensive rough endoplasmic reticulum in the smooth muscle cells of the stimulated uterus is in marked contrast to the appearance of these cells in other tissues. These observations correlate with previous biochemical studies by other workers, in which estrogens have been shown to promote the synthesis of uterine RNA, collagen, and noncollagenous protein, and suggest that smooth muscle cells may participate in the synthesis of connective tissue proteins.
Early-stage breast cancer treated with 3-week accelerated whole-breast radiation therapy and concomitant boost.

Purpose To report early outcomes of accelerated whole-breast radiation therapy with concomitant boost. Methods and Materials This is a prospective, institutional review board-approved study. Eligibility included stage TisN0, T1N0, and T2N0 breast cancer. Patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy were ineligible. The whole breast received 40.5 Gy in 2.7-Gy fractions with a concomitant lumpectomy boost of 4.5 Gy in 0.3-Gy fractions. Total dose to the lumpectomy site was 45 Gy in 15 fractions over 19 days. Results Between October 2004 and December 2010, 160 patients were treated; stage distribution was as follows: TisN0, n=63; T1N0, n=88; and T2N0, n=9. With a median follow-up of 3.5 years (range, 1.5-7.8 years) the 5-year overall survival and disease-free survival rates were 90% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.84-0.94) and 97% (95% CI 0.93-0.99), respectively. Five-year local relapse-free survival was 99% (95% CI 0.96-0.99). Acute National Cancer Institute/Common Toxicity Criteria grade 1 and 2 skin toxicity was observed in 70% and 5%, respectively. Among the patients with ≥2-year follow-up no toxicity higher than grade 2 on the Late Effects in Normal Tissues–Subjective, Objective, Management, and Analytic scale was observed. Review of the radiation therapy dose–volume histogram noted that ≥95% of the prescribed dose encompassed the lumpectomy target volume in >95% of plans. The median dose received by the heart D 05 was 215 cGy, and median lung V 20 was 7.6%. Conclusions The prescribed accelerated schedule of whole-breast radiation therapy with concomitant boost can be administered, achieving acceptable dose distribution. With follow-up to date, the results are encouraging and suggest minimal side effects and excellent local control.
A physics-based high-injection transit-time model applied to barrier effects in SiGe HBTs

A physics-based cutoff frequency model considering high-injection heterojunction barrier effects in SiGe HBTs is derived. Compared with other compact modeling approaches, the present model accurately captures the cutoff frequency behavior at very high current densities for SiGe HBTs with deep Si-SiGe heterojunctions. The model also offers better insight into the charge density distribution under Kirk and barrier effect in SiGe HBTs.