cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cellular metamorphosis: II. The larval labial gland duct and its prospective adult fates in the tobacco hornworm

Abstract The larval labial gland of the sphingid moth, Manduca sexta, produces a viscous secretion, presumably a lubricant, facilitating the burrowing which precedes pupation. During metamorphosis, the gland transforms into a salivary organ, producing an invertase-rich digestive secretion. The single-cell type found in the duct of the larval gland transforms into the four structurally and functionally distinct cell types found in the four sequentially arranged secretory and conductive regions of the adult salivary gland. Surgical experiments were performed to study the prospective fates of different parts of the larval gland. The glands were bisected and one or both fragments were left in situ to undergo metamorphosis. In addition, fragments of the larval gland were implanted in pupal hosts and went through metamorphosis free of their prior attachments. The four linearly arrayed adult regions originate from correspondingly positioned areas in the larval duct.
Effective parameters j/spl tilde//sub c/ and /spl lambda//spl tilde/J at commensurate fields in large Josephson junctions with periodic columnar defects

We have studied flux pinning effects in large Josephson junctions with lithographically patterned periodic columnar defects. At commensurate fields of an integral number of fluxons per defect, the junction behavior is analogous to that found at zero field and can be understood in terms of a field-dependent effective critical current density j/spl tilde//sub c/ which is smaller than the microscopic value j/sub c/, along with an effective penetration depth /spl lambda//spl tilde//sub J//spl prop//spl radic/(1/j/spl tilde//sub c/) which is larger than /spl lambda//sub J//spl prop//spl radic/(1/j/sub c/). The role of these effective parameters is demonstrated by fitting the peaks in I/sub c/(H) for junctions with both the width and length significantly larger than /spl lambda//spl tilde//sub J/ values, and by a re-scaling of field step structure found in current-voltage curves for commensurate fields which demonstrates their equivalence to the well-known zero field steps found in the absence of applied field. >
Theory of a degenerate Bose fluid: II. Application

Abstract The theory developed in an earlier paper is applied to the degenerate Bose fluid at very low temperatures. It is seen that the transformation functions A ( k ), B ( k ), and C ( k ) can be chosen in such a way that the expansions of the grand potential and the momentum distribution are well-behaved at very low temperatures. It is found that with this choice the Bogoliubov theory is an approximation to the first order results obtained with the present theory. The equilibrium properties of the system are calculated in second order and discussed. It is shown that, at least through second order, there is no energy gap at zero momentum in the quasiparticle energy spectrum.
Formation of isoaspartate at two distinct sites during in vitro aging of human growth hormone

In vitro aging at pH 7.4, 37 degrees C causes natural sequence recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH), methionyl rhGH, and human pituitary growth hormone to become substrates for bovine brain protein carboxyl methyltransferase, an enzyme that modifies the "side chain" alpha-carboxyl group present at atypical isoaspartyl linkages. The substrate capacity of rhGH increased at a rate of 1.8 methyl-accepting sites/day/100 molecules of hormone. Reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) of trypsin digests of aged rhGH revealed two altered peptides not present in digests of control rhGH. These two fragments, which had the amino acid compositions of residues 128-134 (Leu-Glu-Asp-Gly-Ser-Pro-Arg) and 146-158 (Phe-Asp-Thr-Asn-Ser-His-Asn-Asp-Asp-Ala-Leu-Leu-Lys), contained the majority of the induced methylation sites, 22 and 58%, respectively. Isoaspartate can result from deamidation of asparagine or isomerization of aspartate. Isomerization of Asp-130, the only candidate site in 128-134, was corroborated by coelution of the altered fragment with the synthetic isoaspartyl peptide upon reversed-phase HPLC. Evidence is presented that the altered 146-158 fragment is a mixture of two peptides resulting from deamidation of Asn-149 to form 70-80% isoaspartate and 20-30% aspartate at this position. The position of isoaspartate in the altered 146-158 fragment was deduced from mass spectrometry, which indicated a single deamidated asparagine; from methylation stoichiometry, which indicated only one methylation site; and from automated Edman degradation, which showed an absence of asparagine and a low yield of aspartate at position 149. These results show that isoaspartate formation from both aspartate and asparagine is a significant, and possibly the major, source of spontaneous covalent alteration of rhGH and that enzymatic carboxyl methylation provides a powerful tool for assessing this type of modification.
Visualizing geo-referenced data with the Eco Flight Simulator

As part of the Environmental Informatics and Visualization Laboratory at UMass Boston, we are creating the Eco Flight Simulator -- a system for visualizing landscape patterns, ecosystem processes and biodiversity data. Many state and federal agencies are currently gathering large amounts of spatial data via aerial photographs and satellite imagery that can be used for seeing the landscape (distribution and location of habitats, size of habitat fragments, the relationships among political and ecosystem boundaries), analyzing ecosystem processes (water cycling, nutrient cycling, pollution movement) and investigating biodiversity issues (habitat types, populations of invasive species, species interactions, etc.). One of the major challenges facing society today is understand the consequences of the human alteration of natural systems (Cohen 1995, Daily 1998, Lubchenco 1998, NRC 2001). By improving visualization, we can open the access of existing data sets to a far broader community. This will result in enhanced understanding of complex, inter-related processes and more informed decision-making by affected communities.
A dominant-negative therapy for anthrax

The oligomeric structure of anthrax toxin might be exploited as a preventative or therapeutic vaccine.
The Wasteland: Anticommons, White Spaces, and the Fallacy of Spectrum

Nearly fifty years after FCC Chairman Newton Minow blasted broadcast television as a "vast wasteland," the FCC has the opportunity create a verdant new oasis of wireless connectivity. The long-dormant “white spaces” around broadcast TV channels may soon be opened to new forms of communication. The question is how the regulator should allocate these spaces: through more-flexible versions of the exclusive licenses granted to broadcasters, or through inclusive mechanisms that allow for broader access. The FCC has proposed to make the white spaces available on an unlicensed basis, meaning that any device meeting technical requirements could operate there. The best solution is to consider the problem of gridlock in the broadcast bands holistically. Both exclusive property rights and unlicensed allocation can play synergistic roles. The debate over what to do with the white spaces illustrates persistent misunderstandings about both wireless spectrum and property rights. Communications policy scholars agree that broadcasting represents a tragedy of the anticommons: a government-engendered misallocation of property rights, resulting in under-consumption of a valuable resource. They disagree about almost everything else. Advocates of exclusive spectrum rights go astray by insisting, incorrectly, that spectrum itself is the scarce physical resource. The anticommons model sheds light on why this viewpoint is flawed. Both exclusion and inclusion have a place in spectrum policy, but only a commons approach can unlock the potential of the white spaces. This article uses the broadcast white spaces to analyze the nature of spectrum property rights and the potential for tragedies of the commons and anticommons.
Neonatal Jaundice and Kernicterus

* Abbreviations: AAP = : American Academy of Pediatrics • G-6-PD = : glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Subcommittee on Hyperbilirubinemia is currently revising the practice parameter (guidelines) on neonatal hyperbilirubinemia published in October 1994.1 Although this revision is in progress, the Subcommittee wishes to bring the issue of kernicterus to the attention of the pediatric community and provide additional information pending a more formal assessment of the literature and an analysis of the risks and benefits of new approaches to the jaundiced infant. The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations has already issued an alert on this subject.2 Kernicterus, or bilirubin encephalopathy, is a condition caused by bilirubin toxicity to the basal ganglia and various brainstem nuclei. In the acute phase, severely jaundiced infants become lethargic, hypotonic and suck poorly. If the hyperbilirubinemia is not treated, the infant becomes hypertonic and may develop a fever and a high-pitched cry. The hypertonia is manifested by backward arching of the neck (retrocollis) and trunk (opisthotonus). Surviving infants usually develop a severe form of athetoid cerebral palsy, hearing loss, dental dysplasia, paralysis of upward gaze and, less often, intellectual and other handicaps. Kernicterus is a condition that is unfamiliar to most pediatricians practicing today. In the 1940s and 1950s, kernicterus was a common complication of hyperbilirubinemia associated with Rh erythroblastosis fetalis and, occasionally, ABO hemolytic disease. With the introduction of exchange transfusion, kernicterus became much less common. The use of Rh immunoglobulin all but eliminated erythroblastosis fetalis and phototherapy drastically reduced the need for exchange transfusion. In the last several years, however, there have been reports of kernicterus associated with extremely high serum bilirubin levels.3–9Most of these infants did not have obvious hemolytic disease or another recognized cause of neonatal jaundice. Many appeared to be otherwise healthy, breastfeeding newborns although frequently they were not receiving adequate nutrition and hydration. …
X-ray transients and flares from active stellar systems

Many X-ray flares detected to date from active cool stars were initially discovered as fast (≲ 3 hour) transients1,2,3. A survey of the HEAO A-1 Sky Survey Experiment 0.5–20 keV data for fast transients confirms the tendency for a significant fraction of such events to be associated with active stellar systems. Eight months of the mission (which include one full scan of the sky) were searched, yielding 10 transients of which three are identified with flares on cool stars. Of the remaining sources4, all but ones5 are at least consistent in their X-ray properties with a stellar flare origin.
Control of Eye Movements

The sections in this article are: 1 Purposes of eye Movements 1.1 Vestibuloocular Reflex 1.2 Afoveate Saccadic System 1.3 Optokinetic System 1.4 Visual Stabilization 1.5 Pursuit System 1.6 Saccadic System 1.7 Vergence System 2 Oculomotor Plant 2.1 Motoneuron Behavior 2.2 Movement and Muscle Fiber Types 2.3 Stretch Afferents 2.4 Muscle Mechanics 3 Vestibuloocular Reflex 3.1 Properties of Reflex 3.2 Semicircular Canals 3.3 Central Pathways 3.4 Otolith Reflex 3.5 Neurophysiology of Reflex 4 Optokinetic System 4.1 Properties of Optokinetic Nystagmus 4.2 Model of Optokinetic-Vestibular Cooperation 4.3 Neurophysiology of Optokinetic System 5 Saccadic System 5.1 Properties of Rapid Eye Movements 5.2 Properties of Quick-Phase System 5.3 Properties of Saccadic System 5.4 Neurophysiology of Saccades 6 Pursuit System 6.1 Stabilization System 6.2 Properties of Pursuit 6.3 Neurophysiology of Pursuit 6.4 Models of Pursuit 7 Vergence System 7.1 Properties of Vergence Movements 7.2 Neurophysiology of Vergence 8 Plasticity and Repair 8.1 Gain of Vestibuloocular Reflex 8.2 Recovery from VIIIth Nerve Lesions 8.3 Saccadic Plasticity 8.4 Plasticity of Vergence Tone 9 Measuring Eye Movements 9.1 Noncontact Methods 9.2 Contact Methods
Binary supergratings in a novel lateral satellite grating configuration

The binary supergrating (BSG) extends the Bragg grating into frequency space, yielding a structure whose diffraction spectrum can be tailored at will. We demonstrate the BSG in a lateral satellite grating morphology, as a first proof-of-concept for adaptive spectral engineering.
A Pilot Survey of Clergy Regarding Mental Health Care for Children

Collaborations between healthcare and faith-based organizations have emerged in the drive to improve access to care. Little research has examined clergy views on collaborations in the provision of mental healthcare, particularly to children. The current paper reports survey responses of 25 clergy from diverse religious traditions concerning mental health care in children. Subjects queried include clergy referral habits, specific knowledge of childhood conditions such as depression and anxiety, past experiences with behavioral health workers, and resources available through their home institutions. Overall, surveyed clergy support collaborations to improve childhood mental health. However, they vary considerably in their confidence with recognizing mental illness in children and perceive significant barriers to collaborating with mental health providers.
Refinement of the NMR Solution Structure of the γ-Carboxyglutamic Acid Domain of Coagulation Factor IX Using Molecular Dynamics Simulation with Initial Ca2+ Positions Determined by a Genetic Algorithm†

A genetic algorithm (GA) successfully identified the calcium positions in the crystal structure of bovine prothrombin fragment 1 bound with calcium ions (bf1/Ca). The same protocol was then used to determine the calcium positions in a closely related fragment, the Gla domain of coagulation factor IX, the structure of which had previously been determined by NMR spectroscopy in the presence of calcium ions. The most frequently occurring low-energy structure found by GA was used as the starting structure for a molecular dynamics refinement. The molecular dynamics simulation was performed using explicit water and the Particle-Mesh Ewald method to accommodate the long-range electrostatic forces. While the overall conformation of the NMR structure was preserved, significant refinement is apparent when comparing the simulation average structure with its NMR precursor in terms of the N-terminal (Tyr1-N) network, the total number of hydrogen bonds, the calcium ion coordinations, and the compactness of the structur...
Understanding Statin Use in America and Gaps in Patient Education (USAGE): an internet-based survey of 10,138 current and former statin users.

Background Statins substantially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and are generally well-tolerated. Despite this, many patients discontinue therapy. A better understanding of the characteristics of current and former statin users may be helpful for formulating strategies to improve long-term adherence. Objective The Understanding Statin Use in America and Gaps in Education (USAGE) survey assessed the attitudes, beliefs, practices, and behavior of current and former statin users. Methods Individuals 18 years or older who reported a history of high cholesterol and current or former statin use were identified within a registered consumer panel cohort in the United States and invited to participate in an Internet survey. Results Of the 10,138 respondents, 8918 (88%) were current statin users and 1220 (12%) were former users. Participants (mean age 61 years) were predominantly white (92%), female (61%), of middle income (median $44,504/yr), and had health insurance (93%). Among current users, 95% took a statin alone, and 70% had not missed a dose in the past month. Although ∼70% reported that their physicians had explained the importance of cholesterol levels for their heart health former users were less satisfied with the discussions (65% vs. 83%, P P Conclusions This survey provides important insights into behavior and attitudes among current and former statin users and the results suggest that more effective dialogue between healthcare providers and patients may increase persistence of statin use, particularly when the patient has concerns about side effects and drug costs.
Modification of β2 I by glutardialdehydeI by glutardialdehyde

Autoantibodies from patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) recognize an epitope on β2glycoprotein I (β2GPI) only when native β2GPI is adsorbed on surfaces composed of anionic phospholipids or oxidized polystyrene, β2GPI was modified with the crosslinking agent, glutardialdehyde (GDA), which induced exposure of the anti-β2GPI epitope at GDA: β2GPI mol ratios in the range of 500–2000. A second crosslinking agent, dimethyl-suberimidate (DMS), did not expose the epitope, which may be a consequence of its having less tendency than GDA to form intermolecular links. SDS-PAGE experiments demonstrate that GDA does promote extensive intermolecular crosslinking of β2GPI, and DMS does not. Formaldehyde also reacts with the lysine residues of β2GPI, but does not expose the epitope. The circular dichroism spectra of native and modified β2GPI confirm that GDA induces changes in conformation that are qualitatively different from those caused by formaldehyde. These data provide evidence that binding of lysine residues is not a sufficient condition for exposure of the autoepitope, and also support the likelihood that β2GPI antibodies bind only to aggregates of the protein. Thus, by synthesizing an active holoantigen of β2GPI, conditions were defined that are necessary for binding of human autoantibodies. The authors also suggest that treatment of phospholipid-binding proteins with chemical agents might provide a strategy to modify their structure and permit exposure of epitopes, resulting in synthetic antigens for therapeutic and diagnostic use.
On the (mis)measurement of legislator ideology and shirking

In this paper, we show that current statistical measures of legislator's shirking are implicitly based on the electoral concept of a unique majority rule equilibrium point in the policy space where elections are contested. We note that such equilibria do not exist generically and present statistical results showing that cross-sectional regressions where legislators' voting indices are predicted by district average demograhic and economic data are mis-specified. We also discuss a weaker equilibrium construct, the uncovered set, and present statistical evidence showing that differences in voting behavior between Senators from the same state are positively related to the heterogeneity of the electorate. We argue that current evidence alleged to show shirking by Senators is equally consistent with Senators who perfectly represent an idiosyncratic constituency that cannot be represented by district average data.
Debranching of β-Dextrins to Explore Branching Patterns of Amylopectins from Three Maize Genotypes

ABSTRACT The amylopectin (AP) branching pattern is a fundamental feature of AP fine structure but a little-studied one. In this work, we followed enzyme digestion over time for AP from three maize genotypes (wx, du wx, and AP of ae VII). The objective was to describe differences in the progress of β-amylolysis and in subsequent debranching of β-limit dextrins (β-LD). During the progress of β-amylolysis, changes in the distribution of short residual chains show that the enzyme favors hydrolysis farthest from branch points. On treating β-LD with isoamylase (IA) alone, debranching was incomplete. Using IA and pullulanase (PUL) sequentially, a similar increase in the DP 5–7 region and the peak at DP 6 were observed for all samples, indicating a common element in the branching pattern. This similarity suggests that, despite differences in the proportion of short to long B chains, the most closely associated branch points may be arranged in a similar way for these AP. We suggest that the increase in DP 6 after ...
Crenulated seafloor: Evidence for spreading-rate dependent structure of mantle upwelling and melting beneath a mid-oceanic spreading center

Abstract The availability of dense GEOSAT-GM satellite altimetry data south of 30°S [1] provides the first opportunity to compare at ∼ 25 km resolution seafloor generated at ridges spreading with a wide range of spreading rates. The axis of the slow-spreading Southwest Indian Ridge as well as the seafloor that it has generated has a distinctly crenulated appearance. This crenulated seafloor shows regularly spaced gravity lineations in the spreading direction, crenulations that record stationary centers of mantle upwelling over the life of the Southwest Indian Ridge. A similar pattern of crenulation is seen along sections of the slow-spreading northern Mid-Atlantic Ridge, but along the faster (intermediate) spreading southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge, while regularly spaced highs are apparent along sections of the spreading axis, stationary crenulation does not persist off the axis. This pattern implies that the faster spreading southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge has variable centers of time-dependent upwelling that migrate along the ridge. Crenulations are not visible near the axis of the fast-spreading Pacific-Antarctic Ridge. Crenulation amplitudes decrease strongly with increasing spreading rate. The absence of crenulation at high spreading rate could be due to a 3D/2D transition in flow structure or the effect of mechanisms to redistribute crust along axis. While crenulations are not ubiquitous, even at slowly spreading ridges, where they exist they provide a time record to observe the characteristics of mid-ocean ridge upwelling, melting and melt migration not only beneath active spreading centers but through a much longer spreading history.
Treatment of Culicoides hypersensitive horses with high-dose n-3 fatty acids: a double-blinded crossover study.

In this double-blinded crossover study the clinical efficacy of high dose α-linolenic acid (linseed oil) for the treatment of Culicoides spp. hypersensitivity was evaluated. Seventeen privately owned horses from north Florida, USA completed the 18-week study. Criteria for inclusion included negative dermatophyte cultures, negative skin scrapes, failure to respond to ivermectin treatment, compatible clinical signs, positive skin test to Culicoides spp.antigen and a history of seasonal pruritus consistent with Culicoides spp. hypersensitivity. Horses were randomized and each horse’s feed was supplemented with 200 mL of linseed oil (n-3 source) or 200 mL of corn oil (n-6 source) per day for a 6-week period. After a 6-week washout period, each horse was crossed over to the other supplement for an additional 6 weeks. Horses were evaluated every 3 weeks. The level of pruritus was determined by counting pruritic acts in a 30-min period. Total lesional surface area was determined by computerized evaluation of scanned photographs and documented physical examination findings. There was no significant change in level of pruritus observed between the groups (P = 0.89). Additionally, lesional surface area was not significantly different between the groups (P = 0.06). However, most owners stated that horses improved while supplemented with linseed oil.
The Yeast Resource Center Public Data Repository

The Yeast Resource Center Public Data Repository (YRC PDR) serves as a single point of access for the experimental data produced from many collaborations typically studying Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast). The experimental data include large amounts of mass spectrometry results from protein co-purification experiments, yeast two-hybrid interaction experiments, fluorescence microscopy images and protein structure predictions. All of the data are accessible via searching by gene or protein name, and are available on the Web at http://www.yeastrc.org/pdr/.
Effect of methane on sulfur dioxide and sodium sulfate-lnduced corrosion of nickel-base alloys

The corrosion of nickel-base binary alloys, with up to 20 wt pct Cr or Al, by sulfur dioxide contained in a nitrogen gas stream, has been found to be considerably enhanced between 800 and 1000°C in the presence of low concentrations of gaseous methane. The magnitude of the effect, which is related to the ability of the alloy surface to catalyze the decomposition of the hydrocarbon to solid carbon, decreases with increasing Cr and Al content of the alloy. Ni-Al alloys containing less than 10 wt pct Al are more readily attacked by SO2 alone than are the corresponding Ni-Cr alloys, although the deleterious effects of added methane are more marked in the Ni-Cr series. The extent of high temperature corrosion of these alloys by deposited sodium sulfate at 900 to 1000°C is also generally increased when small amounts of methane are introduced, although in this case the addition of Cr to the alloy confers greater corrosion resistance than does the addition of an equivalent concentration of Al. In the presence of either sodium sulfate or SO2, the addition of methane to the ambient nitrogen atmosphere results in localized reducing conditions and increased sulfur potentials near the alloy surface.
Temperature-sensitive translation of MS2 bacteriophage RNA

A comparison was made of bacteriophage MS2 RNA translation in infected Escherichia coli cells and in a defined cell-free system. A number of temperature-sensitive mutants were used as hosts for viral RNA translation at permissive and restrictive temperatures. The amount of viral coat protein synthesis was determined after gel electrophoresis of proteins from the cell lysates. These results were compared to those obtained with cell-free translation assays conducted with ribosomes isolated from the same mutants. Compared with control cells, a reduced activity in vivo and in vitro was found for each mutant examined at elevated temperatures. A good correlation between the two types of translational assays was observed. These findings are discussed in terms of the translational defects known to be a characteristic of some of these mutant strains.
Relationship between apolipoproteins and chemical components of lipoproteins in survivors of myocardial infarction

Abstract The relationship of VLDL-, LDL-, HDL-cholesterol, VLDL-triglycerides and of apolipoproteins A-I, A-II and apo-D has been studied in 89 survivors of myocardial infarction and in 80 age- and sex-matched controls. The two groups as a whole were analysed as well as sub-groups of subjects divided according to their lipid phenotype (normolipidaemic, IIA, IIB and IV). The data support the view that plasma levels of apo-B and apoA-I as well as their ratio and the TC/apo-B and LDL-C/apo-B ratios are better indicators of lipid derangement in survivors of myocardial infarction than the levels of LDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol. Total cholesterol, total triglycerides, VLDL-cholesterol and VLDL-triglycerides are of no help in discriminating between the two series. The VLDL-C/VLDL-TG ratio in survivors is, however, very close to the ratio thought to be peculiar to type III hyperlipidaemia.
Views of hepatitis C virus patients delayed from treatment for psychiatric reasons.

Summary. For patients with chronic hepatitis C virus, certain psychiatric disorders are contraindications for antiviral therapy with interferon-alpha (IFN). Although these conditions delay a significant portion of patients from beginning therapy, no one has yet portrayed the views of these patients. A qualitative analysis, drawing upon semi-structured interviews, was developed to generate hypotheses regarding patient views of the treatment disposition process, and to generate strategies for increasing the portion of treatment-eligible patients. Two focus groups were conducted: one for patients delayed from treatment due to current or recent depression, and one for patients delayed due to current or recent alcohol use. A grounded theory analysis of the interview data were conducted. Patients were generally satisfied with the decision-making process, based largely on education from, and trust in, physicians. Upon learning their diagnosis, patients reported making healthy behaviour changes regarding alcohol, diet, exercise and herbal remedies. Some patients reported that requiring a period of alcohol abstinence was excessive, as they believed that they could discontinue alcohol use immediately, if so instructed by a physician. Patients seemed to over-interpret the likelihood of suicide during interferon-alpha (IFN) therapy. Current or recent psychiatric morbidity delays many patients from beginning interferon therapy. Nonetheless, this may be an optimal time for physicians to encourage healthy behaviours including abstinence from alcohol. Also, physicians may need to extensively assess the use of herbal remedies by patients. To help patients make judgments about beginning therapy, physicians should focus upon risk communication regarding the likelihood of suicide on therapy with interferon.
Human computer interaction issues with touch screen applications in the flight deck

▓ Technology driven products do not remain for long unless they provide value ▓ Present Study is to evaluate □ added value in the safety critical environment □ reducing the existing workload □ does not create any additional conflicts in the regular work flow.
Computer Processing of Line-Drawing Images

This paper describes various forms of line drawing representation, compares different schemes of quantization, and reviews the manner in which a line drawing can be extracted from a tracing or a photographic image. The subjective aspects of a line drawing are examined. Different encoding schemes are compared, with emphasis on the so-called chain code which is convenient for highly irregular line drawings. The properties of chain-coded line drawings are derived, and algorithms are developed for analyzing line drawings to determine various geometric features. Procedures are described for rotating, expanding, and smoothing line structures, and for establishing the degree of similarity between two contours by a correlation technique. Three applications are described in detail: automatic assembly of jigsaw puzzles, map matching, and optimum two-dimensional template layout
Policies models and tools for collaborative applications

Policies are at the heart of any assured information sharing infrastructure for collaborative applications and may include those for access control, trust and accountability. Policies can be a key component in deciding what and how much to reveal in the discovery stage for both information seekers and providers. Policies can also drive the process of negotiation in the acquisition and release stage. Policies are needed to monitor and enforce usage control as well as for auditing and accountability. Fine-grained policy integration algorithms are needed to support dynamic coalitions and virtual organizations that need to quickly share and integrate information. Policies must adapt, based on events and contexts, to support continuous access to critical information resources. Enforcement mechanisms are also needed to allow different parties to take joint decisions about data accesses. In this talk, we will first discuss the various policies that are relevant in the context of secure information sharing across collaborating organizations. We will then focus on tools for policy similarity analysis, focusing on the case of policies expressed in XACML, and then we will present a reference architecture for collaborative enforcement of access control policies.
The connection between public transfers and private interfamily transfers

Abstract This paper investigates the anti-poverty effectiveness of public transfers taking private-transfer responses into account. Widespread, altruistically motivated private transfers would neutralize the distributional impact of public transfers. But exchange-motivated transfers can reinforce the effects of public transfers on the distribution of economic well-being. The common technique for gauging anti-poverty effectiveness (subtracting public transfers from other income and measuring the poverty-rate counterfactual) yields results that are close to a more complex procedure that takes private-transfer responses into account. And some of the empirical findings suggest an exchange, rather than altruistic, motive for private transfers, indicating that the effects of public transfers can be magnified by private behavior. This is an exact reversal of the prediction that public transfers merely supplant private ones.
Comments on The Replication of the Hard Problem of Consciousness in AI and Bio-AI

In their joint paper entitled "The Replication of the Hard Problem of Consciousness in AI and BIO-AI" (Boltuc et al. Replication of the hard problem of conscious in AI and Bio- AI: An early conceptual framework 2008), Nicholas and Piotr Boltuc suggest that machines could be equipped with phenomenal consciousness, which is subjective consciousness that satisfies Chalmer's hard problem (We will abbreviate the hard problem of consciousness as "H-consciousness"). The claim is that if we knew the inner workings of phenomenal consciousness and could understand its' precise operation, we could instantiate such consciousness in a machine. This claim, called the extra-strong AI thesis, is an important claim because if true it would demystify the privileged access problem of first-person consciousness and cast it as an empirical problem of science and not a fundamental question of philosophy. A core assumption of the extra-strong AI thesis is that there is no logical argument that precludes the implementation of H-consciousness in an organic or in-organic machine provided we understand its algorithm. Another way of framing this conclusion is that there is nothing special about H-consciousness as compared to any other process. That is, in the same way that we do not preclude a machine from implementing photosynthesis, we also do not preclude a machine from implementing H-consciousness. While one may be more difficult in practice, it is a problem of science and engineering, and no longer a philosophical question. I propose that Boltuc's conclusion, while plausible and convincing, comes at a very high price; the argument given for his conclusion does not exclude any conceivable process from machine implementation. In short, if we make some assumptions about the equivalence of a rough notion of algorithm and then tie this to human understanding, all logical preconditions vanish and the argument grants that any process can be implemented in a machine. The purpose of this paper is to comment on the argument for his conclusion and offer additional properties of H-consciousness that can be used to make the conclusion falsifiable through scientific investigation rather than relying on the limits of human understanding.
The efficiency of the synaptic vesicle cycle at central nervous system synapses

Presynaptic nerve terminals rely heavily on membrane traffic to maintain efficient neurotransmission between cells. It is often assumed that, as neurons can fire action potentials at high frequency, the cell biological machinery for vesicle cycling must be highly specialized. Here, we examine the demands that are placed on the recycling machinery in three model systems used to characterize vertebrate vesicle recycling – small hippocampal synapses, calyx-type brainstem synapses, and ribbon-type sensory synapses – and the molecular pathways thought to underlie certain aspects of the vesicle cycle.
Commentary: effects of sexual trauma on adult sexuality

(1998). Commentary: Effects of sexual trauma on adult sexuality. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy: Vol. 24, No. 2, pp. 91-92.
Percentiles and other characteristics of the four-parameter generalized gamma distribution

Selected percentiles, the terminus and the mode of the four-parameter generalized gamma distribution (g.g.d.) are tabulated. Tables are also provided which display the Pearson shape parameters 3, and 3? as functions of the basic g.g.d. shape parameters and vice-versa. Charts are provided which facilitate a comparison of the g.g.d. with distributions of the Pearson system
Remote and adjacent excited-state electron transfer at TiO2 interfaces sensitized to visible light with Ru(II) compounds.

The ruthenium polypyridyl compounds, Ru(dpp)2(deeb)(PF6)2 (Ru-deeb) and cis-Ru(dpp)2(eina)2(PF6)2 (Ru-eina), where dpp is 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline, deeb is 4,4‘-diethyl ester-2,2‘-bipyridine, and eina is 4-ethyl ester pyridine, have been prepared and characterized to sensitize nanocrystalline TiO2 (anatase) thin films. In neat acetonitrile at room temperature, Ru-deeb was emissive with λem = 675 nm, τ = 780 ns, and emission quantum yield φem = 0.067, whereas Ru-eina was nonemissive with τ < 10 ns. The short lifetime and observed photochemistry for Ru-eina are consistent with the presence of low-lying ligand-field (LF) excited states. The metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) excited states of Ru-deeb were found to be localized on the surface-bound deeb ligand, and on the remote dpp ligand for Ru-eina. Interfacial proton concentration was employed to tune the relative sensitizer−semiconductor energetics. Injection quantum yields, φinj, varied from ∼0.2 at pH = 5 to ∼1 at pH = 1, with a slope of ∼0...
MITESS: a moored in situ trace element serial sampler for deep-sea moorings

Abstract We have designed, constructed and tested a trace element clean sampling device for long term deployment (6 months or longer) on deep-sea moorings. The device collects unfiltered 500 ml samples by opening and closing a bottle originally filled with dilute acid (passively replaced by denser seawater). Each sample is collected by an independent module, so failure of a single unit does not affect others. Seven years of deployments have refined the sampler into a rugged and reliable device. The device also can be hung below a wire to collect water column samples. Automated trace element sampler (ATE), a spinoff from moored in situ trace element serial sampler, is a single-module device for allowing trace metal clean near-surface samples to be collected by personnel not trained in trace element sampling. ATE/VANE, another variation, allows the same personnel to collect upper water column profiles on conventional hydrowire. The systems have been tested by comparing samples collected for lead and iron with those collected by previously proven sampling techniques.
Can we finally target the leukemic stem cells

Two key issues must be addressed in the discussion of targeting leukemic stem cells: (1) can the leukemic stem cell be targeted in vivo, and (2) how to assess whether the leukemic stem cell is actually being targeted. Currently several small molecule and antibody- or ligand-based agents have shown activity in selectively targeting the leukemic stem cell. However, there is debate about how to use these targeted agents and how to identify and quantitate the leukemic stem cell to determine whether or not it is being targeted. Parameters are suggested here to help identify and quantitate leukemic stem cells in the clinical context.
Umbilical cord acid base changes associated with perinatal cardiac failure.

Abstract Two infants delivered by emergency cesarean section because of fetal distress are described, and the umbilical blood acid-base findings are discussed. One fetus was stillborn, the other died in the immediate neonatal period, and both showed signs of cardiac dilation and failure on postmortem examination. Umbilical cord blood gas determination at the time of delivery showed almost normal values of pH, Pco 2 . and Po 2 in the umbilical vein but acidotic pH with high Pco 2 and low Po 2 values in the umbilical artery samples. These findings are probably the result of a prolonged umbilical blood circulation time because of fetal cardiac failure. This sluggish perfusion allows the equilibration of fetal blood with maternal intervillous blood, and the findings in the fetal umbilical vein approximate maternal uterine venous values. Umbilical cord acid-base determinations in perinatal surveillance are commonly recommended without specific details. Umbilical artery samples must be obtained to properly assess the metabolic status of the fetus at the time of birth.
Planning for machining in a multijob, multimachine manufacturing environment

Abstract Planning for the scheduling and machining of n jobs through m nonidentical parallel machines is a common manufacturing problem. In this paper, a promising new approach to simultaneously obtain the solution to the machine parameter optimization and scheduling problems in n jobs and m machines manufacturing system is presented. The paper subscribes to the view that in order to optimally utilize the machine resources in a shop, the decision of allocating jobs to machines must be mades simultaneously with the decision of how a job should be processed on the machine to which it is assigned. A mathematical based planning model combined with a heuristic solution procedure is used for solving the problem. An example illustrating the use of the model and how the solution procedure compares with a branch and bound based technique is given. The implications of the proposed method when used as an integral component of a computer aided process planning (CAPP) systems is outlined.
Genetics of disease

A selection of World Wide Web sites relevant to papers published in this issue of Current Opinion in Genetics & Development.
Prenatal cocaine exposure adversely affects development of the primate cerebral cortex

This study was conducted to determine whether prenatal exposure to cocaine interferes with the development of the primate cerebral cortex. For this purpose, pregnant rhesus monkeys received cocaine orally (20 mg/kg/day in fruit or candy treats), twice a day from the 40th-102nd days of pregnancy (E40-E102), which is a period of corticogenesis in this species. The control group of pregnant animals received fruit or candy treats only. On E64 and E65, all animals received intravenous injections of [3H]thymidine. Monkeys were allowed to deliver at term. The offspring were sacrificed at age 2 months, and their brains were processed for histology and autoradiography. The analysis of cresyl violet-stained sections showed that prenatal treatment with cocaine significantly altered lamination of the primate cerebral cortex, in some cases completely blending distinction between individual layers. In addition, autoradiographic analysis revealed that in the control animals, [3H]thymidine labeling concentrated in cortical layers V and/or IV depending on the cytoarchitectonic area observed. In contrast, drug- treated animals displayed labeled cells in the white matter and cortical layer VI in addition to layers V and IV, suggesting inability of cortical cells to reach proper cortical layers. The number of labeled cells was also much lower in these animals. Finally, immunocytochemical studies with antisera directed toward glial fibrillary acidic protein showed that prenatal exposure to cocaine had dramatic effect on the glial fibers normally observed in the upper cortical layers. In many cortical regions of cocaine-treated animals, we observed practically no such fibers. This study demonstrates that cocaine administered during pregnancy can significantly affect the development of the primate cerebral cortex. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Internal representational models of attachment relationships

Bowlby's notion of internal representational models is explored with the purpose of clarifying the nature of such models. Distinctions are made among the concepts of (a) focus, (b) memory systems, (c) content, (d) cognitive function, (e) meta-structure, (f) quality of attachment, (g) behavioral strategies, and (h) attitude toward attachment. New terms are offered for familiar concepts, such as defended insecure quality of attachment. New meanings are given for familiar terms, such as working model and balanced attitude toward attachment. In addition, new concepts are introduced including procedural models and meta-models. Areas for further research are discussed in terms of other aspects of relationships and nonattachment relationships. Throughout, the emphasis is on specification of meaning and integration of aspects and levels of models. Finally, issues about assessing attachment and intervening clinically are discussed.
Expanding our understanding of sequence-function relationships of Type II polyketide biosynthetic gene clusters: Bioinformatics-guided identification of frankiamicin a from Frankia sp. EAN1pec

A large and rapidly increasing number of unstudied “orphan” natural product biosynthetic gene clusters are being uncovered in sequenced microbial genomes. An important goal of modern natural products research is to be able to accurately predict natural product structures and biosynthetic pathways from these gene cluster sequences. This requires both development of bioinformatic methods for global analysis of these gene clusters and experimental characterization of select products produced by gene clusters with divergent sequence characteristics. Here, we conduct global bioinformatic analysis of all available type II polyketide gene cluster sequences and identify a conserved set of gene clusters with unique ketosynthase α/β sequence characteristics in the genomes of Frankia species, a group of Actinobacteria with underexploited natural product biosynthetic potential. Through LC-MS profiling of extracts from several Frankia species grown under various conditions, we identified Frankia sp. EAN1pec as producing a compound with spectral characteristics consistent with the type II polyketide produced by this gene cluster. We isolated the compound, a pentangular polyketide which we named frankiamicin A, and elucidated its structure by NMR and labeled precursor feeding. We also propose biosynthetic and regulatory pathways for frankiamicin A based on comparative genomic analysis and literature precedent, and conduct bioactivity assays of the compound. Our findings provide new information linking this set of Frankia gene clusters with the compound they produce, and our approach has implications for accurate functional prediction of the many other type II polyketide clusters present in bacterial genomes.
Management of lawn mower injuries to the foot and ankle

Seventy consecutive patients treated for lawn mower injuries to the foot and ankle were reviewed to determine optimal treatment, functional results, and complications. Injuries were classified into 1 or more functional-anatomical zones (I, digits; II, dorsum; III, plantar nonweight-bearing surface; IV, heel; and V, ankle) for a total of 96 injuries. Thirty-one patients were available for follow-up. Mean age was 36.7 years and 84% were males. Most injuries (67%) involved patients > 16 years old using a push mower; however, 18% involved children Language: en
Do High‐Reliability Systems Have Lower Error Rates? Evidence from Commercial Aircraft Accidents

High-reliability advocates claim that highly reliable organizations (HROs), such as the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) air traffic control system, routinely demonstrate the ability to safely and reliably perform large-scale technical operations. High levels of productivity with low levels of error are achieved even though complex technologies are used to accomplish mission goals. A recent study asserted that the FAA’s air traffic control function developed HRO characteristics over a long period of time as part of a larger high-reliability system. In that study, identifiable and measurable attributes and characteristics associated with high reliability were constructed, and their emergence was tracked over time. In this article, time-series analysis was used to measure the relationship between characteristics associated with high reliability and commercial aviation accident reduction. A small but statistically significant effect was identified linking the adoption of HRO characteristics over time with a reduction in commercial aviation accident rates.