cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TOWARDS OVERCOMING THE CURSE OF DIMENSIONALITY IN PREDICTIVE MODELLING AND UNCERTAINTY QUANTIFICATION

This invited presentation summarizes new methodologies developed by the author for performing high-order sensitivity analysis, uncertainty quantification and predictive modeling. The presentation commences by summarizing the newly developed 3rd-Order Adjoint Sensitivity Analysis Methodology (3rd-ASAM) for linear systems, which overcomes the “curse of dimensionality” for sensitivity analysis and uncertainty quantification of a large variety of model responses of interest in reactor physics systems. The use of the exact expressions of the 2nd -, and 3rd -order sensitivities computed using the 3rd -ASAM is subsequently illustrated by presenting 3rd -order formulas for the first three cumulants of the response distribution, for quantifying response uncertainties (covariance, skewness) stemming from model parameter uncertainties. The use of the 1st -, 2nd -, and 3rd -order sensitivities together with the formulas for the first three cumulants of the response distribution are subsequently used in the newly developed 2nd /3rd -BERRU-PM (“Second/Third-Order Best-Estimated Results with Reduced Uncertainties Predictive Modeling”), which aims at overcoming the curse of dimensionality in predictive modeling. The 2nd /3rd -BERRU-PM uses the maximum entropy principle to eliminate the need for introducing a subjective user-defined “cost functional quantifying the discrepancies between measurements and computations.” By utilizing the 1st -, 2nd - and 3rd -order response sensitivities to combine experimental and computational information in the joint phase-space of responses and model parameters, the 2nd /3rd -BERRU-PM generalizes the current data adjustment/assimilation methodologies. Even though all of the 2nd - and 3rd -order are comprised in the mathematical framework of the 2nd /3rd -BERRU-PM formalism, the computations underlying the 2nd /3rd -BERRU-PM require the inversion of a single matrix of dimensions equal to the number of considered responses, thus overcoming the curse of dimensionality which would affect the inversion of hessian and higher-order matrices in the parameter space.
Landscape-Based Mutational Sensitivity Cartography and Network Community Analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Structures: Quantifying Functional Effects of the Circulating D614G Variant

We developed and applied a computational approach to simulate functional effects of the global circulating mutation D614G of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. All-atom molecular dynamics simulations are combined with deep mutational scanning and analysis of the residue interaction networks to investigate conformational landscapes and energetics of the SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins in different functional states of the D614G mutant. The results of conformational dynamics and analysis of collective motions demonstrated that the D614 site plays a key regulatory role in governing functional transitions between open and closed states. Using mutational scanning and sensitivity analysis of protein residues, we identified the stability hotspots in the SARS-CoV-2 spike structures of the mutant trimers. The results suggest that the D614G mutation can induce the increased stability of the open form acting as a driver of conformational changes, which may result in the increased exposure to the host receptor and promote infectivity of the virus. The network community analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins showed that the D614G mutation can enhance long-range couplings between domains and strengthen the interdomain interactions in the open form, supporting the reduced shedding mechanism. This study provides the landscape-based perspective and atomistic view of the allosteric interactions and stability hotspots in the SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins, offering a useful insight into the molecular mechanisms underpinning functional effects of the global circulating mutations.
Reinforcement Learning Optimized Throughput for 5G Enhanced Swarm UAS Networking

The ubiquitous of 5G New Radio (5G NR) accelerates the massive implementations in many fields including swarm Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) networking. The ultra capacities of 5G NR can provide more sufficient networking services for the swarm UAS networking which can enable swarm UAS to deploy in more complex and challenging scenarios to achieve missions. However, the conventional swarm UAS networking are mainly centralized or hierarchical which is vulnerable to the dynamics and the deployment of swarm UAS networking on a large scale. In this paper, we formulate a cell wall communications for the heterogeneous swarm UAS networking with the inspiration of biological cell wall communication. Fueled by reinforcement learning, we resolve the edge-coloring problem of cell wall communication scheduling to achieve the maximum throughput between the heterogeneous swarm UAS networking globally. The evaluation shows our proposed reinforcement learning enabled algorithm can surpass the conventional scheduling algorithms over 90% when the time piece is less than 0.01s and achieve the optimal throughput for the heterogeneous swarm UAS networking.
ERK and p38 MAPK inhibition controls NF-E2 degradation and profibrotic signaling in renal proximal tubule cells.

Abstract Aims Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) mediates fibrotic manifestations of diabetic nephropathy. We demonstrated proteasomal degradation of anti-fibrotic protein, nuclear factor-erythroid derived 2 (NF-E2), in TGF-β treated human renal proximal tubule (HK-11) cells and in diabetic mouse kidneys. The current study examined the role of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways in mediating NF-E2 proteasomal degradation and stimulating profibrotic signaling in HK-11 cells. Main methods HK-11 cells were pretreated with vehicle or appropriate proteasome and MAPK inhibitors, MG132 (0.5 μM), SB203580 (1 μM), PD98059 (25 μM) and SP600125 (10 μM), respectively, followed by treatment with/without TGF-β (10 ng/ml, 24 h). Cell lysates and kidney homogenates from FVB and OVE26 mice treated with/without MG132 were immunoblotted with appropriate antibodies. pUse vector and pUse-NF-E2 cDNA were transfected in HK-11 cells and effects of TGF-β on JNK MAPK phosphorylation (pJNK) was examined. Key findings We demonstrated activation of p38, ERK, and JNK MAPK pathways in TGF-β treated HK-11 cells. Dual p38 and ERK MAPK blockade prevented TGF-β-induced pSer82Hsp27, fibronectin and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression while preserving NF-E2 expression. Blockade of JNK MAPK inhibited TGF-β-induced CTGF expression without preserving NF-E2 expression. MG132 treatment prevented TGF-β-induced pJNK in HK-11 cells and in type 1 diabetic OVE26 mouse kidneys, demonstrating that TGF-β- and diabetes-induced pJNK occurs downstream of proteasome activation. A direct role for NF-E2 in modulating pJNK activation was demonstrated by NF-E2 over-expression. Significance ERK and p38 MAPK promotes NF-E2 proteasomal degradation while proteasome activation promotes pJNK and profibrotic signaling in renal proximal tubule cells.
Sociodemographic and Economic Factors in Outcomes of Tube Shunts for Neovascular Glaucoma.

Importance Few studies have analyzed associations between sociodemographic factors and neovascular glaucoma (NVG) outcomes. Aim and background To determine the potential impact of sociodemographic and economic factors on the NVG tube shunt surgery outcomes. Design Retrospective, single-center, comparative case series. Participants Consecutive patients who underwent tube shunt surgery for NVG and had ≥6 months of follow-up. Materials and methods Regional average adjusted gross income (AGI) was determined by cross-referencing self-reported residential zip codes with average AGI per zip code supplied by the Internal Revenue Service. Two groups were created: (1) lower-income: individuals from neighborhoods with the lowest 10% of AGI (near the United States poverty line), (2) higher-income: the remaining 90% of individuals. Main outcome measures Visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and glaucoma medication number at 6 months and the most recent visit. Results The mean annual AGI in the higher-income group (130 patients) was $69,596 ± 39,700 and the lower-income group (16 patients) was $27,487 ± 1,600 (p < 0.001). Age, sex, distance to the clinic, language, and all baseline clinical variables (including VA and IOP) were comparable between groups. Lower-income was associated with non-white race (81.3 vs 52.3%; p = 0.024). At month 6, VA in the lower-income group [median: HM (20/70-NLP)] was worse than the higher-income group [median: CF (20/25-NLP)] (log MAR VA: 2.32 ± 0.8 vs 1.77 ± 1.1; p = 0.02); these trends persisted through the most recent visit (p = 0.043). Follow-up IOP and medications were similar between groups. Conclusions and relevance Lower-income may be associated with worse VA outcomes following NVG tube shunt surgery. How to cite this article Shalaby WS, Arbabi A, Myers JS, et al. Sociodemographic and Economic Factors in Outcomes of Tube Shunts for Neovascular Glaucoma. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2021;15(2):70-77.
Structural Equation Modeling and Natural Systems

Part I. A Beginning: 1. Introduction 2. Illustration of structural equation modeling with observed variables: the temporal dynamics of a plant-insect interaction Part II. Basic Principles of Structural Equation Modeling: 3. The anatomy of structural equation models I: overview and observed variable models 4. The anatomy of structural equation models II: latent variables 5. Principles of estimation and model assessment Part III. Advanced Topics: 6. Composite variables and their use in representing concepts 7. Additional techniques for complex situations Part IV. Applications and Illustrations: 8. Model evaluation in practice 9. Multivariate experiments 10. The systematic application of a multivariate perspective to understanding plant diversity patterns in ecological communities 11. Cautions and recommendations for the application of SEM Part V. The Implications of Structural Equation Modeling for the Study of Natural Systems: 12. How can structural equation modeling contribute to the advancement of the natural sciences? 13. Tuning in to nature's symphony: frontiers in the study of multivariate relations Appendix I. Example analyses References.
Tinnitus: Maladaptive Auditory-Somatosensory Plasticity

Tinnitus, the phantom perception of sound, is physiologically characterized by an increase in spontaneous neural activity in the central auditory system. However, as tinnitus is often associated with hearing impairment, it is unclear how a decrease of afferent drive can result in central hyperactivity. In this review, we first assess methods for tinnitus induction and objective measures of the tinnitus percept in animal models. From animal studies, we discuss evidence that tinnitus originates in the cochlear nucleus (CN), and hypothesize mechanisms whereby hyperactivity may develop in the CN after peripheral auditory nerve damage. We elaborate how this process is likely mediated by plasticity of auditory-somatosensory integration in the CN: the circuitry in normal circumstances maintains a balance of auditory and somatosensory activities, and loss of auditory inputs alters the balance of auditory somatosensory integration in a stimulus timing dependent manner, which propels the circuit towards hyperactivity. Understanding the mechanisms underlying tinnitus generation is essential for its prevention and treatment. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled .
Projection Generated Homogenization

Homogenization is a class of analytical techniques for approximating multiscale differential equations. The number of scales are reduced and the resulting equations are easier to analyze or numerically approximate. The classical homogenization technique is based on asymptotic expansions. We shall introduce a homogenization procedure based on projections of differential or discrete approximation operators onto coarser subspaces. The projection procedure is quite general and we give a presentation of a framework in Hilbert spaces. We apply the framework to a simple differential equation with oscillatory coefficients and to two discrete problems. One is wavelet based numerical homogenization and the other a multiscale finite element method.3
Abstract 167: Noninvasive MRI Measurement of Cerebrovascular Reactivity Enables Evaluation of Surgical Revascularization Response in Moyamoya

Introduction: Frequent dissociation between clinical severity and angiographic grading of moyamoya supports a role for alternative tissue-level hemodynamic measures. Here, angiography is complemented with noninvasive MRI measurements of parenchymal impairment to assess changes in cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) after extracranial-intracranial bypass in moyamoya. Hypothesis: CVR is regionally impaired pre-operatively, yet increases after surgery. This can be visualized noninvasively by assessing blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) MRI changes with safe, mildly hypercarbic gas. Methods: Using a block MRI paradigm, carbogen (5% CO 2 ; 95% O 2 3 min) was interleaved with atmospheric air ( 2 ; 3 min) administration during BOLD MRI in intracranial stenosis patients (n=70), a subset of which (n=9; age=35.7+/-10.8; 7F/2M) underwent indirect (n=8) or direct (n=1) revascularization for moyamoya. Five patients had both pre-operative and post-operative hemodynamic imaging, with post-operative scans performed after 7.3+/-4.1 months. CVR, calculated as a z-statistic in response to hypercarbia vs. atmospheric air, was compared (two-tailed t-test) for each patient between the two time points to correlate CVR changes with surgery. Results: Fig. 1 shows BOLD MRI on a patient scanned before and 2 years after right-sided indirect bypass, with significant (t=79.29, p Conclusions: CVR-weighted hemodynamic MRI can be implemented into routine clinical protocols, corresponds well with revascularization response, and has potential as a noninvasive complement to angiography for serial monitoring of moyamoya patients.
Modulating Conscious Movement Intention by Noninvasive Brain Stimulation and the Underlying Neural Mechanisms

Conscious intention is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. Despite long-standing interest in the basis and implications of intention, its underlying neurobiological mechanisms remain poorly understood. Using high-definition transcranial DC stimulation (tDCS), we observed that enhancing spontaneous neuronal excitability in both the angular gyrus and the primary motor cortex caused the reported time of conscious movement intention to be ∼60–70 ms earlier. Slow brain waves recorded ∼2–3 s before movement onset, as well as hundreds of milliseconds after movement onset, independently correlated with the modulation of conscious intention by brain stimulation. These brain activities together accounted for 81% of interindividual variability in the modulation of movement intention by brain stimulation. A computational model using coupled leaky integrator units with biophysically plausible assumptions about the effect of tDCS captured the effects of stimulation on both neural activity and behavior. These results reveal a temporally extended brain process underlying conscious movement intention that spans seconds around movement commencement.
Multidisciplinary Views of Business Contracts

Several major trends in the services industry drive toward an increasing importance of contracts. These include the formalization of business processes across the client and the provider organizations; resource administration in cloud computing environments; service-level agreements as they arise in infrastructure and networking services; and services viewed from the perspective of real-life engagements.
Poverty and Gender Inequality in Developing Countries

The issues of poverty and gender inequality are long standing social problems that permeate every society (United Nations, 2009). Poverty and gender inequality are experienced differently in many developing countries as compared to developed countries, and various definitions are given from different perspectives that direct policy makers how to address the issues (Batana, 2008; World Bank, 2009). The framework for understanding and addressing the problem has many dimensions; however, a general understanding is required for society to address basic human needs that allow for the daily survival of the less fortunate. Poverty and gender inequality continue to be massive social problems in developing countries. Researchers, policy makers, and various institutions including the international community, have designed measures to reduce and eradicate the problem; yet in today’s modern society, poverty and gender inequality still linger, especially in the developing world (Batana, 2008; Megahed & Lack, 2011; Rankin & Aytac, 2006; World Bank, 2009). The purpose of this paper is to review the literature regarding poverty and gender inequality in developing countries. The results and implications for social work policy and practice are discussed. This study is significant because poverty is a major social problem and social workers have a mandate to address poverty. This study is relevant to national and international gender policies to address gender poverty and inequality. The outcome may serve as a guide to policy decision making for social work research and practice in developing countries. Keywords : Gender, inequality, poverty, developing countries.
“Why Girls Go Wrong”: Advising Female Teen Readers in the Early Twentieth Century1

This article traces historical uses of the phrase “why girls go wrong” to provide a context for analysis of Progressive Era reading guidance for girls and then turns to actual girls’ responses to reading. The historic context depicts the milieu in which young women and the advisors who sought to guide them lived and read as a time of intense concern with adolescent female sexual activity. Further, the era also witnessed suspicion about the way that public spaces were used, particularly by women and girls. Librarians constructed, through arguments that selected titles that represented persuasively pure and feminine ideals, a female sphere in the public library. Images of the early twentieth‐century library as a wholesome, protective space for young women acknowledged contemporary social issues and responded to ensure that the bookish domains would be seen as appropriate venues for adolescent girls.
The hamiltonians of NMR. Part IV: NMR relaxation

Using the methods presented in our previous discussions of the Hamiltonians of NMR, we describe the processes that lead to relaxation of spin systems. The same nomenclature and methods of Parts I, II, and III have been used to develop a formulation of time-dependent operators.
''Polynomial'' gas flow regulators.

Abstract : The design principles for a gas flow regulator which produces prescribed time dependent mass flow rates of gas are stated. The principles are discussed in terms of a passive system of tanks which are connected in series by sonic throttles. Each tank produces one term of a temporal polynomial. Certain considerations prevent this being made into a practical device. Alternate systems based on the same principles but using programable regulators instead of the tanks are described. One such system was built and tested. It produced a satisfactory sixthdegree polynomial substitute for a prescribed exponentially increasing gas flow rate program for a 600-kilowatt, two-arc plasma facility.
Contributions to psychohistory. VIII: Perspectives on bilingual education in the Austrian empire and the United States of America: is the assumption of temporal catenation of linguistic and territorial separatism valid?

On compare les phrases propres a un milieu bilingue et multiculturel tirees de discours des representants de minorite faits au parlement autrichien entre 1892 et 1907 avec celles des partisans et opposants actuels a une education bilingue
MO-E-18C-06: Enriching Medical Physics Education By Visualizing The Invisible

Purpose: To enhance the understanding of medical physics concepts and develop higher levels of learning relating to invisible physics phenomena such as radiation. To provide medical physics educators in all countries of the world with understanding of knowledge structures in the human brain, the different levels of learning, and the types of knowledge required for higher level functions such as problem solving, creative innovations, and applied clinical applications. To provide medical physics educators with an open access resource (tool) that they can use in their teaching activities to enrich and elevate the level of learning for their students, residents, etc. with respect to the invisible realm of medical physics. Methods: An experienced clinical medical physicist and educator has created and provided with open access three complementary web-based resources to achieve the purposes described above. One is a module focusing on the medical physics learning process with respect to mental knowledge structures, how they relate to outcomes and applications, and learning activities that are required to develop the required knowledge structures. The second is an extensive set of visuals that educators can use in their activities (classes, small group discussions, etc.) to visualize the invisible. The third is an interactive online simulation where learners can adjust factors and visually observe changes in x-radiation.These resources are available online at www.BLINDED FOR REVIEW. Results: Medical physics education, especially for non-physicists, is becoming much more interesting and useful especially with respect to invisible radiation. The global impact is that medical imaging professionals can be more effective in optimizing x-ray imaging procedures and risk management when they have knowledge levels that enhance problem solving, innovation, and creativity. Conclusion: Medical physics educators in all institutions can be much more effective and efficient in the sharing of their knowledge and experience when enhanced with high-quality visuals.
Changes in fatty acid profiles of thermo-intolerant and thermo-tolerant marine diatoms during temperature stress

Abstract Fatty acid composition and degree of fatty acid saturation during temperature stress in thermo-intolerant ( Phaeodactylum tricornutum ) and thermo-tolerant ( Chaetoceros muelleri ) marine diatoms were investigated. A greater number of fatty acids were observed in C. muelleri than in P. tricornutum regardless of treatment. The major fatty acids detected were 14:0, 16:0, 16:1, 16:2, 16:3, 18:0, 18:1(n-9)c, 18:2(n-6) and 20:5(n-3) with additional fatty acids 18:1(n-9)t and 20:4(n-6) detected in C. muelleri . Short duration (2 h) temperature increase above optimal growth temperature had a greater effect on fatty acid composition in C. muelleri than in P. tricornutum and the degree of fatty acid saturation was affected more by temperature in C. muelleri than in P. tricornutum during both short and long duration (24 h) treatments. Total protein assay results suggest that P. tricornutum , but not C. muelleri , was undergoing stress under our growing conditions although lipids in both diatoms were affected by increased temperature. Immunodetection of proteins with anti-rubisco indicates that the rubisco large subunit was undergoing greater turnover in C. muelleri than in P. tricornutum. However, the integrity of rubisco as a suitable indicator of lipid status needs further study. This work supports the hypothesis that a particular temperature, and not treatment duration, has the greater effect on changes in fatty acid composition. Furthermore, changes in fatty acid composition and degree of fatty acid saturation occurred more quickly in the diatoms in response to increased temperature than previously observed in nutrient starvation studies. Since diatom lipids represent an important resource for growth and reproduction of marine animals, the rapid alteration of their lipid composition under temperatures normally encountered in marine environments warrants further study.
Using what works to help children manage stress and anxiety: An appeal for pragmatism

In this article I discuss what I think is a major obstacle to doing what works in clinical practice. Namely, many times prior, foundational assumptions get in the way of our choosing and using the most effective treatment methods. I thus offer a way to think about things—a pragmatic perspective—that challenges this notion of foundational assumptions. I discuss the two main characteristics of a pragmatic perspective: its problem solving and contextualistic orientation. I also show how the articles contained in this issue of In Session can be viewed within this pragmatic perspective. My conclusion is that a pragmatic perspective provides a useful framework for incorporating procedures that work in one's clinical practice. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Photochemistry and stability of the atmosphere of Mars

An understanding of the composition, structure, transport and photochemical processes of the present atmosphere of Mars is essential for addressing such fundamental questions as the stability, evolution and the origin of the Martian atmosphere. This paper discusses our current knowledge of the photochemistry and stability of the Martian atmosphere, with special emphasis on new models and work in progress.
HIGH TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY AND TERRITORIAL DEVELOPMENT: THE RISE OF THE ORANGE COUNTY COMPLEX, 1955–1984

This paper deals with the growth and development of the Orange County high technology industrial complex. At the outset, a simple empirical overview of the rise of manufacturing in the county is provided. How population grew in the county as a function of industrial development is shown. The spatial and social characteristics of this population are described. The structure of the local labor force is also discussed in detail. The argument then moves to a demonstration of how the dynamics of vertical and horizontal disintegration of productive functions have created a peculiar kind of industrial geography in Orange County. These dynamics are examined statistically. It is shown that they involve a transfer of work from larger, more bureaucratized and more unionized plants to plants with the converse characteristics. The internal locational logic of the complex is examined. The discussion is rounded out with an overview of the problems of social and territorial reproduction in Orange County.
Electrical and magnetic properties of thin films containing metal clusters

A large variety of granular polymer thin films can be synthetized in a capacitively coupled coplanar diode radiofrequency (r.f.) discharge system in which an argon-monomer mixture is injected at low pressure (20 mTorr). This approach offers several advantages over the other techniques, e.g. easy control of the metal content in the film from a few % up to 100%. The d.c. electrical properties of gold containing plasma polymerized tetrafluoroethylene (PPTFE) and the magnetic behavior of cobalt containing plasma polymerized propane (PPP) are reported in this paper.
Fine structure of sensory ganglion cells during limb regeneration of the newt Triturus

The regeneration of the limb of the newt depends upon the nervous system. The fine structure of sensory ganglion cells of the newt Triturus viridescens was studied during limb regeneration to determine whether any changes could be associated with trophic function. Several changes were noted in the cell bodies following amputation of the limb. Lipofuscin pigment bodies are greatly increased in number. Some cells contain giant mitochondria with a diameter of 2 μ and others contain clusters of many small mitochondria. Small Golgi complexes occur in close proximity to the giant mitochondria. Dense membrane-bounded granules, not observed normally, with a diameter of ∼ 1000A occur in the region of these Golgi complexes. The endoplasmic reticulum becomes more dispersed during regeneration while the ratio of free to attached ribosomes increases. Some cells show extensive chromatolytic changes consisting of dissolution of the endoplasmic reticulum. The structural changes are discussed in relation to the trophic action of nerves and regeneration of the nerve fiber. Changes in lipofuscin granules and mitochondria may be indicative of increased oxidative metabolic activity. The changes in the endoplasmic reticulum and ribosomes are suggestive of a reorganization of the protein synthetic machinery of the cell. The appearance of dense granules in the perikaryon coincides with the accumulation of granules in the peripheral regenerating nerves. These structures may be associated with the formation, transport, and release of a possible trophic substance or hormone.
Histologic Study of the Ocular Lesions in Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type IIb

We studied the clinical and histopathologic findings in the eyes of two patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIb. A prominent clinical feature of this condition is enlarged nonmyelinated corneal nerves composed of bundles of axons associated with Schwann cells. Prominent corneal nerves within an otherwise normal corneal stroma are an important clinical feature of multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIb. Because of this, ophthalmologists are in a position to make an early diagnosis and hence to recommend diagnostic procedures and treatment for the associated potentially fatal medullary carcinoma of the thyroid and pheochromocytomas.
Editor's forum: Russia and Ukraine: crossed communications

Note: I wrote my Introduction to this Forum, along with the questions, in February – before the events leading to, and following, the referendum on the status of Crimea held on 16 March 2014.At the...
Novel spinal dysplasia in two generations.

We report on a father and son with a previously undescribed skeletal abnormality and severe short stature. Antenatal sonographic evaluation of the propositus (son), obtained due to maternal pre-eclampsia, suggested an abnormal spine. At birth, no congenital anomalies were noted and transition to extra-uterine life was smooth. Radiographs performed five days after birth showed spina bifida, hemivertebrae in the mid-thoracic region, and widened lumbar in-terpedicular distances. MRI of the lower thoracic and lumbar vertebrae documented crescent-shaped appearance of the affected vertebrae and abnormally narrow A-P diameter of the vertebral bodies. Intervertebral discs were small, and the posterior elements, as well as the spinous processes of the affected vertebrae, were markedly hypoplas-tic. However, there was no narrowness of the spinal canal, and the limbs were unaffected. CT scan with three-dimensional reformatting of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae documented unusual sagittal clefting of all of the vertebral bodies, which has previously been undescribed. The father had severe kyphoscoliosis and a height of 131.6 cm (−7.5 S.D.). Radiograph-ically, he was found to have multiple segmentation anomalies and diminished A-P diameter of his affected vertebral bodies. The multiple vertebral anomalies are the probable cause for the father's severe kyphoscoliosis. The pattern of inheritance suggests that an autosomal dominant gene is responsible for this condition and that father represennts a de novo mutationn. These radiographic abnormalities have not been described previously and represent a new form o vertebral spinal dysplasia. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Markov chains and processes with a prescribed invariant measure

Abstract Let (E, E ) be a measurable space and let η be a probability measure on E . Denote by I(η) the set of Markov kernels P over (E, E ) for which η is an invariant measure: η = ηP. We characterize the extreme points of I(η) in this paper. When E is a finite set, I(η) is a compact, convex set of Markov matrices over E and our characterization generalizes the Birkhoff–von Neumann theorem, which asserts that if η is the uniform distribution on E the extreme points of I(η) are the (# E)! permutation matrices. The number of extreme points of I(η) depends in a complicated manner on the entries of η; the case # F = 3 is enumerated explicitly and general results are given on the maximum and minimum numbers of extreme points. For finite E a similar treatment is given of the convex cone I∗(η) of all generator matrices of Markov processes for which η is invariant: its extremal rays are identified.
Why computer science students need language

Many students enter the field of computer science with misconceptions about the importance of communication skills. They often choose this field, thinking they will end up with jobs working alone or with other "techies" developing computer games, and not having to deal with people. These students often do not realize the significance of reading, writing, and speaking skills in computer science. This paper discusses several relevant areas of computer science, and explains why computer science students need skills covered in English, speech, technical writing, and even foreign language courses in order to achieve success as a computing professional.
Visual cloud histories related to first radar echo formation in northeast Colorado cumulus

Abstract Using quantitative analysis of time-lapse motion pictures from aircraft and a sensitive meteorological radar, the cloud top history is related to the early radar echo development in 12 vigorous, summer, convective cloud turrets in northeastern Colorado. At a threshold of about 5 dB(Z), the first echoes appear typically 5–10 min after the cloud top passes the -−20°C level. The first echo either appears at cloud top or reaches the top very quickly. It sometimes appears at a well-defined height, but sometimes nearly simultaneously over an altitude range of 3 km or more. Radar echo at 5 dB(Z) typically fills the visual cloud 5–10 min after first echo. In terms of overall cloud lifetime there is plenty of time for the particles responsible for the first echo to form by the ice process. A detailed model of the rates of ice particle formation by vapor growth followed by riming gives a 5 dB(Z) radar echo within 7–10 min at concentrations as low as 1 m−3, at most temperatures between −10 and −20°C and in ...
Reconstitution of high-affinity opioid agonist binding in brain membranes.

Abstract In synaptosomal membranes from rat brain cortex, the mu selective agonist [3H]dihydromorphine in the absence of sodium, and the nonselective antagonist [3H]naltrexone in the presence of sodium, bound to two populations of opioid receptor sites with Kd values of 0.69 and 8.7 nM for dihydromorphine, and 0.34 and 5.5 nM for naltrexone. The addition of 5 microM guanosine 5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate (GTP[gamma S]) strongly reduced high-affinity agonist but not antagonist binding. Exposure of the membranes to high pH reduced the number of GTP[gamma-35S] binding sites by 90% and low Km, opioid-sensitive GTPase activity by 95%. In these membranes, high-affinity agonist binding was abolished and modulation of residual binding by GTP[gamma S] was diminished. High-affinity (Kd, 0.72 nM), guanine nucleotide-sensitive agonist binding was reconstituted by polyethylene glycol-induced fusion of the alkali-treated membranes with (opioid receptor devoid) C6 glioma cell membranes. Also restored was opioid agonist-stimulated, naltrexone-inhibited GTPase activity. In contrast, antagonist binding in the fused membranes was unaltered. Alkali treatment of the glioma cell membranes prior to fusion inhibited most of the low Km GTPase activity and prevented the reconstitution of agonist binding. The results show that high-affinity opioid agonist binding reflects the ligand-occupied receptor-guanine nucleotide binding protein complex.
Expression of actin mRNAs in denervated chicken skeletal muscle.

Abstract The expression of actin genes in chicken pectoralis muscle denervated 1 week after hatching was examined 1–8 weeks after the operation by RNA blot hybridization using a generic actin cDNA probe and DNA probes specific for α-skeletal and α-cardiac actin genes. Total and α-skeletal actin mRNAs/microgram total RNA decreased to about half of the levels found in contralateral control muscle, while the expression of α-cardiac actin mRNA was up-regulated. Consequently, α-cardiac actin mRNA formed about 15% of the total actin mRNA as compared to less than 1% found in control muscle. The expression of actin genes in the denervated muscle was similar to that in the late embryonic muscle. These results suggest that innervation is required to show the expression pattern of striated muscle actin genes found in mature muscle.
Characteristics of Cobalt Nanoneedles in 10% Co/Aerogel Fischer−Tropsch Catalyst

The 10% Co/aerogel catalyst used in Fischer−Tropsch (FT) synthesis recently by Dunn et al. (Dunn, B. C.; Cole, P.; Covington, D.; Webster, M. C.; Pugmire, R. J.; Ernst, R. D.; Eyring, E. M.; Shah, N.; Huffman, G. P. Appl. Catal., A 2005, 278, 233) is investigated using the complimentary techniques of X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and detailed magnetic measurements. TEM studies show that the catalyst contains Co nanoneedles with diameter d ≈ 1 nm, whereas the XRD studies show the presence of CoO and cobalt silicate hydroxide Co3(Si2O5)(OH)2, in addition to Co. Analysis of the temperature and magnetic field variation of the magnetization from 5 to 350 K shows that the measured magnetic properties are primarily due to the Co nanoneedles oriented randomly, with concentration ≈8%. The presence of the unreduced CoO and the Co silicate explains why the FT activity of this catalyst is about equal to that of the 6% Co/aerogel catalyst. Some interesting magnetic properties of the ...
The care and preservation of scientific drawings.

The intent of this paper is to make artists aware of the fragility of papers and other art materials, of the precautions to take in the selection of materials, and the on-going conservation methods that are necessary to preserve works of art on paper.
Supporting concurrent applications in wireless sensor networks

It is vital to support concurrent applications sharing a wireless sensor network in order to reduce the deployment and administrative costs, thus increasing the usability and efficiency of the network. We describe Melete 1 , a system that supports concurrent applications with efficiency, reliability, flexibility, programmability, and scalability. Our work is based on the Mate virtual machine [1] with significant modifications and enhancements. Melete enables reliable storage and execution of concurrent applications on a single sensor node. Dynamic grouping is used for flexible, on-the-fly deployment of applications based on contemporary status of the sensor nodes. The grouping procedure itself is programmed with the TinyScript language. A group-keyed code dissemination mechanism is also developed for reliable and efficient code distribution among sensor nodes. Both analytical and simulation results are presented to study the impact of several key parameters and optimization techniques on the code dissemination mechanism. Simulation results indicate satisfactory scalability of our techniques to both application code size and node density. The usefulness and effectiveness of Melete is also validated by empirical study.
The effect of intellectual disability on the presence of comorbid symptoms in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract Research is limited in examining the presence of comorbid symptoms in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and co-occurring intellectual disability (ID). The current study aimed to expand knowledge in this area by evaluating the presence of comorbid symptoms in children and adolescents with ASD, compared to those with ASD and ID. Comorbid symptoms examined using the Autism Spectrum Disorders-Comorbidity for Children (ASD-C-C) included tantrum behavior, repetitive behavior, worry/depression, avoidant behavior, under-eating, conduct problems, and over-eating. Two hundred and nineteen children and adolescents ranging from 3 to 16 years of age participated in the study. Significant differences were not found between the groups on any of the comorbid symptoms measured. The implications of these findings on treatment are discussed.
Abstract 4456: Molecular events required for the induction of lethal iron deprivation in malignant hematopoietic cells via an antibody-avidin fusion protein specific for human transferrin receptor 1

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Iron is an essential nutrient for cell growth and division. The transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1 or CD71) is a major gateway for iron import, and as such is expressed on a variety of cells; it is over-expressed in a number of tumors including hematopoietic malignancies. We have previously shown that an antibody-avidin fusion protein (ch128.1Av) specific for TfR1 is toxic to cancer cells, capable of inducing lethal iron deprivation in some malignant B-cells such as IM-9, but not in others such as U266. Importantly, ch128.1Av induces iron deprivation without directly preventing the binding of transferrin (Tf) to TfR1. In an attempt to identify the molecular events behind the iron deprivation induced by ch128.1Av, we have found that like Tf, internalization of ch128.1Av bound to TfR1 is clathrin, dynamin, and temperature dependent. Additionally, recycling of TfR1-bound ch128.1Av at short timescales (30min) is also similar to that of Tf and does not significantly alter the rate of Tf uptake. Long-term incubation (>6h) of IM-9 cells with ch128.1Av precludes their uptake of Tf and induces degradation of TfR1. This is not the case with U266 cells, in which Tf uptake remains unaffected and degradation of TfR1 is negligible in the presence of ch128.1Av. Clustering of cell surface TfR1 by ch128.1Av, given its multivalent nature, was previously thought to cause degradation of the receptor in sensitive cells such as IM-9. We now show that clustering of TfR1 occurs both in cells that are sensitive and resistant to treatment with the antibody (IM-9 and U266), indicating that clustering of TfR1 induced by ch128.1Av is not sufficient to induce receptor degradation and subsequent iron deprivation. Instead, resistance to treatment with ch128.1Av may be attributed to elements downstream of receptor binding/clustering; possibly related to those involved with TfR1 recycling and degradation. Further studies are needed to identify these resistance factors and potentially enhance the efficacy of ch128.1Av as well as other antibodies and/or small molecules that similarly target TfR1 for the treatment of hematologic malignancies. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4456.
Measurements on an argon helicon plasma with variable magnetic nozzle

Summary form only given. The possible existence of a plasma double layer arising at the field gradient of a magnetic nozzle is investigated in a high-density (1013 cm-3), 13.56 MHz radiofrequency (RF) argon helicon plasma with high fractional ionization (>90%). A half-turn double helix antenna couples RF power to the low pressure (mtorr) gas in a 10-cm-diameter, 2-m-long cylindrical Pyrex chamber. The gas flows continuously, fed into the chamber upstream from the turbo pump. Several electromagnets produce a static axial magnetic field, and can be repositioned to produce a wide range of field profiles. Magnetic field strengths range from up to 1 kG in the antenna region to up to 1.5 kG at the peak of the downstream magnetic nozzle. Laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) is used to measure the ion energy distribution function to determine drift velocity and temperature along the experimental axis. The tunable diode laser is centered at 668 nm, and the wavelength is monitored by iodine cell absorption, which provides the fine resolution (0.0001 nm) that is required by the LIF diagnostic. Plasma potential measurements are made via a Langmuir probe to determine the potential profile in the plasma in the presence of the magnetic nozzle and to determine if a double layer forms. Power scaling of up to 3 kW of input RF power is also performed to determine the effect on double layer formation. Additionally, RF field measurements are made via B-dot probe and correlated with Ar II optical emission to characterize the helicon wave propagation under a variety of magnetic nozzle configurations
An algorithmic proof theory for hypergeometric (ordinary and “q”) multisum/integral identities

It is shown that every ‘proper-hypergeometric’ multisum/integral identity, orq-identity, with a fixed number of summations and/or integration signs, possesses a short, computer-constructible proof. We give a fast algorithm for finding such proofs. Most of the identities that involve the classical special functions of mathematical physics are readily reducible to the kind of identities treated here. We give many examples of the method, including computer-generated proofs of identities of Mehta-Dyson, Selberg, Hille-Hardy,q-Saalschutz, and others. The prospect of using the method for proving multivariate identities that involve an arbitrary number of summations/integrations is discussed.
Comparison between ECTb and QGS for assessment of left ventricular function from gated myocardial perfusion SPECT

Background The most widely distributed software packages to compute left ventricular (LV) volume and ejection fraction (EF) from gated perfusion tomograms are QGS and the Emory Cardiac Toolbox (ECTb). Because LV modeling and time sampling differ between the algorithms, it is necessary to document relationships between values produced by them and to establish normal limits individually for each software package in order to interpret results obtained for individual patients.
Heat tolerance and its plasticity in Antarctic fishes.

Abstract The adaptive radiation of the Antarctic notothenioid ancestral benthic fish stock within the chronic freezing waters of the Southern Ocean gave rise to five highly cold adapted families. Their stenothermy, first observed from several high-latitude McMurdo Sound species, has been of increasing recent interest given the threat of rising polar water temperatures from global climate change. In this study we determined the heat tolerance in a geographically diverse group of 11 Antarctic species as their critical thermal maximum (CTMax). When acclimatized to their natural freezing water temperatures, environmental CTMaxs ranged from 11.95 to 16.17 °C, well below those of fishes endemic to warmer waters. There was a significant regional split, with higher CTMaxs in species from the more northerly and thermally variable Seasonal Pack-ice Zone. When eight of the Antarctic species were warm acclimated to 4 °C all showed a significant increase over their environmental CTMaxs, with several showing plasticity comparable in magnitude to some far more eurythermal fishes. When the accrual of heat tolerance during acclimation was followed in three high-latitude McMurdo Sound species, it was found to develop slowly in two of them, which was correlated with their low metabolic rates.
Collection Development and a Long-Term Periodical Use Study: Methodology and Implications

Abstract This article describes how data on periodical use statistics, collected since 1998, were gathered and stored at Hunter Library, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, North Carolina. It considers the significance of the data and its use for collection development purposes. Since Hunter Library does not circulate periodicals, the data collection is based on reshelving statistics using INNOPAC (the shared integrated library catalog). The data gathered, such as subscription price, bibliographic information, and usage count, were moved into a Microsoft Access database and then used to create a wide range of reports. Over the period of the study (1998–2000) there was an overall decrease in the use of periodicals that accelerated in the course of the study, many titles were used intermittently, and a large number of titles had remarkably low usage. Serials Review 2002; 28:38–44.