cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Parallel Symmetric Attack on NTRU using Non-Deterministic Lattice Reduction

Currently, the most efficient passive attack on the NTRU public-key cryptosystem, proposed by Coppersmith and Shamir l1r, is based on finding a short enough vector in an integral lattice. An NTRU lattice possesses a cyclic automorphism group whose symmetry may be exploited. We have designed methods for reducing bases of NTRU integral lattices based on this symmetry. In addition to these methods, we use hill-descending techniques to combine new and proposed lattice-reduction algorithms. This approach includes deterministic and non-deterministic components which may be efficiently parallelized.
Shaping Health Reform: State Government Influence in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has significant implications for state governments and its passage presents an opportunity to contribute to inquiries into ways that state officials wield influence in the national legislative process. State officials were occasionally influential when they drew on state experience and expertise and congress members were willing to benefit from this knowledge. State officials were also influential when a member of their congressional delegation was in a position to cast a pivotal vote on the bill and willing to withhold support unless state interests were addressed. State officials were also influential when they elevated their concerns in the public consciousness to the point that the bill’s supporters were forced to accommodate them or risk the bill’s defeat.
Hyperthermia—a prospective evaluation of a possibleteratogenic agent in man

HYPERTHERMIA has been shown to be a teratogenic agent that Can principally alter central nervous system development in many animals, 1-7 although in primates the evidence is inconclusive, s-l~ The teratogenic properties of increased temperature have been more difficult to evaluate in human beings because fever is most commonly caused by infectious illness: When a human gestation is ~o~tplicated by febrile illness and an abnormal infant is subsequently born, it has not been clear whether the infectious agent, toxins, drugs, fever, or other factors were responsible for the malformation problem. TWO recent reports support hyperth'ermia as a teratogenic agent in man. Smith et a111 reported finding patterns of malformation, including defects of brain similar to those produced in the hyperthermia-animal models, among Children whose mothers retrospectively reported h igh fevers in early gestation. The patterns of malformation tended to relate to the timing of the hyperthei'mia. An anencephalic infant Was bor n following a reported high fever around the time of anterior neural groove closure. This observation ledto a second study in which it was found that 11% of 63 women bearing an anencephalic infant reported a hyperthermic event around the time of neural groove closureY In both of these studies the infectious agents associated with fever were diverse and, in some cases, the presumed hyperthermia had been induced by prolonged sauna bathing rather than infection. The varied etiologies of the hyperthermia gave further credence to the fever as the Cause of the similar malformations.
Reply to Voets et al.: Constellation pharmacology is poised to answer scientific questions

Voets, Talavera, and Nilius (VTN) offer an alternative interpretation (1) of our data (2) that focuses on menthol responses in neurons sensitive to allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a functional marker for transient receptor potential (TRP) A1 expression. They argue that such responses are mediated by TRPA1, not TRPM8. There is an ongoing controversy surrounding the relative roles of TRPA1 and TRPM8 in cold sensation. VTN argue that TRPA1 plays a primary role (ref. 1 and references therein), whereas others argue that TRPA1 is not a cold sensor or is only a minor contributor to cold sensation (3, 4). We did not intend to step into the middle of that controversy. The focus of our article (2) was to illustrate the utility of constellation pharmacology with specific physiologically relevant examples.
Vinpocetine attenuates lipid accumulation and atherosclerosis formation

Atherosclerosis, the major cause of myocardial infarction and stroke, is a chronic arterial disease characterized by lipid deposition and inflammation in the vessel wall. Cholesterol, in low-density lipoprotein (LDL), plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Vinpocetine, a derivative of the alkaloid vincamine, has long been used as a cerebral blood flow enhancer for treating cognitive impairment. Recent study indicated that vinpocetine is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. However, its role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis remains unexplored. In the present study, we show that vinpocetine significantly reduced atherosclerotic lesion formation in ApoE knockout mice fed with a high-fat diet. In cultured murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells, vinpocetine markedly attenuated oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) uptake and foam cell formation. Moreover, vinpocetine greatly blocked the induction of ox-LDL receptor 1 (LOX-1) in cultured macrophages as well as in the LOX-1 level in atherosclerotic lesions. Taken together, our data reveal a novel role of vinpocetine in reduction of pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, at least partially through suppressing LOX-1 signaling pathway. Given the excellent safety profile of vinpocetine, this study suggests vinpocetine may be a therapeutic candidate for treating atherosclerosis.
In vivo and in vitro phosphorylation studies of numatrin, a cell cycle regulated nuclear protein, in insulin-stimulated NIH 3T3 HIR cells

Abstract Numatrin, a nuclear matrix protein has been implicated to be involved in mitogenesis of normal and malignant cells (Feuerstein and Mond, J. Biol. Chem. 262, 11389, 1987) and was later found to be identical to the nuclear phosphoprotein, B23. To study whether phosphorylation of numatrin is regulated by mitogenic stimulation, we examined the effect of phosphorylation of numatrin in the insulin-responsive cells, NIH 3T3 HIR. We found that an increase in phosphorylation of numatrin was associated with stimulation of the cells with insulin for 4 h and that the level of phosphorylation remained elevated after 8 h. By this time there was no increase in numatrin abundance as shown by Coommassie blue stain and Western blot analysis. The induction in phosphorylation of numatrin could not be detected after 30 min stimulation with insulin, thus, indicating that the increase in phosphorylation of numatrin is not a rapid event. Analysis of the phosphopeptides by thin layer chromatography indicated four peptides that were phosphorylated in numatrin (one major and three minor). Stimulation with insulin was associated primarily with an increase in phosphorylation of the minor phosphopeptides. The phosphopeptide map of numatrin was identical after 4, 8, 17, 24, and 32 h stimulation with insulin, indicating that identical sites are phosphorylated at different phases of the cell cycle. In a search for the protein kinase which is involved in phosphorylation of numatrin we found that numatrin is a most prominent substrate for the cell cycle regulated cdc2 (p 34) kinase. However, the major phosphopeptides which were phosphorylated by this kinase did not comigrate with either of the phosphopeptides phosphorylated in insulin-stimulated intact cells. This may indicate that it is unlikely that cdc2 kinase may account for the mechanism(s) associated with phosphorylation of numatrin by insulin under physiological conditions.
A method for in-line measurement of lumen and wall of microscopic vessels in vivo

Abstract A system incorporating an image-splitter eyepiece to the television microscope and monitoring units, allows accurate measurements and rapid analogue recording of microvessel geometry in vivo. The measurement of dynamic changes of lumen size and wall thickness is made by shearing the projected split vessel image in the T.V. monitor. The output of a sensitive potentiometer incorporated in the micrometer head of the splitter registers the amount of image-shearing into an absolute measurement, reproducible to 0.1% on the polygraph. Simultaneous measurements of inner and outer radii of target microvessels can be made at any azimuth in the microscopic field, up to ×3000 magnification of optico-electrical image. Higher magnifications, up to ×6500, and maximum resolution, permitted shearing of selected images of structures anatomically and functionally corresponding to smooth muscle cells in the wall of microvessels. The numerical information obtained permitted estimation of dynamic changes of lumen and wall cross-sectional areas and the relation of lumen to wall from moment to moment with great accuracy in vivo.
Measurement of Hydroxyl Radical Activity in a Soil Slurry Using the Spin Trap α-(4-Pyridyl-1-oxide)- N-tert-butylnitrone

The spin trap compound α-(4-pyridyl-1-oxide)N-tert-butylnitrone (4-POBN) served as a probe to estimate the activity of Fenton-derived hydroxyl radicals (•OH) in a batch suspension comprised of silica sand and crushed goethite ore. The rate of probe disappearance was used to analyze system kinetics and oxidation efficiency under heterogeneous, Fenton-driven conditions. The •OH−(4-POBN) adduct produced by the reaction of 4-POBN with •OH was observed via electron paramagnetic resonance to confirm the mechanism of 4-POBN transformation. The disappearance of 4-POBN with •OH in the sand/goethite slurry amended with H2O2 (150 mM) was first-order in 4-POBN. Under the conditions of this experiments, the effective steady-state •OH concentration ([•OH]ss) was estimated at 1.2 × 10-15 and 6.5 × 10-16 M, when 4-POBN was initially present at 700 and 1440 μM, respectively. Observed kinetics were in qualitative agreement with a conceptual model in which H2O2 is consumed in both Fenton and non-Fenton reactions and 4-POBN ...
Coupling of two spin species by resonant phonons

Experimental evidence is given for the heating by resonant phonons of the Pr3+ spin resonance transition in (La1-0.006Pr0.003Ce0.003)2 Mg3(NO3)12. 24H2O. Resonant phonons were produced at 1.50°K and 10.7 GHz by paramagnetic relaxation of the Ce3+ transition. Measurements showed that the heating was strong for separations between the two Zeeman frequencies < 30MHz, compared with Ce and Pr linewidths of ∼50 MHz and ∼15 MHz, respectively.
A mutation in autosomal dominant myotonia congenita affects pore properties of the muscle chloride channel

Autosomal dominant myotonia congenita is an inherited disorder of skeletal muscle caused by mutations in a voltage-gated Cl− channel gene (CLCN1, 7q35). Here, we report that a mutation predicting the substitution of Gly 230 by glutamic acid (G230E) between segments D3 and D4 dramatically alters the pore properties of a recombinant human muscle Cl− channel (hClC-1) expressed in a mammalian cell line (tsA201). The G230E mutation causes substantial changes in anion and cation selectivity as well as a fundamental change in rectification of the current–voltage relationship. Whereas wild-type channels are characterized by pronounced inward rectification and a Cl > thiocyanate > Br > NO3 > I > CH3SO3 selectivity, G230E exhibits outward rectification at positive potentials and a thiocyanate > NO3 > I > Br > Cl > CH3SO3 selectivity. Furthermore, the cation-to-anion permeability ratio of the mutant is much greater than that of the wild-type channel. Voltage-dependent blocks by intracellular and extracellular iodide help to distinguish two distinct ion binding sites within the hClC-1 conduction pathway. Both binding sites are preserved in the mutant but have decreased affinities for iodide. These findings suggest that Gly 230 is critical for normal ion conductance in hClC-1 and that this residue resides within the channel pore.
Distribution of exotic plant species and relationship to vegetation type at Bryce Canyon National Park, USA.

Abstract Natural resource planning increasingly emphasizes control of undesired exotic plant species, which pose formidable challenges to conservation on many urban and wildland landscapes such as national parks. To enhance knowledge of exotic plant distribution and support implementation of an exotic plant management plan, we analyzed a data set including native and exotic vegetation on 406, 400-m2 plots within a 23,754-ha landscape encompassing Bryce Canyon National Park in southwestern Utah, USA. Fifteen exotic plant species inhabited plots, with the most frequent species all of Eurasian-origin: Poa pratensis (13% of plots), Taraxacum officinale (11%), Tragopogon dubius (8%), and Bromus inermis (5%). Relationships of exotic plant community variables (cover and species/400 m2) with vegetation map types at three hierarchical resolutions (coarse, with 8 vegetation types, intermediate with 14, and fine with 28) were strong. No single map resolution emerged as optimal overall for portraying exotic plant distribution, as different hierarchical map resolutions reflected heavily and minimally invaded vegetation types at all resolutions. Elevation was not consistently related to prevalence of exotic plants, as vegetation type within an elevation zone was paramount. For example, some high-elevation forest types (e.g., Populus tremuloides) supported more exotic plants than other high-elevation types (e.g., Pinus longaeva). Meadows were among the most invaded vegetation types, woodlands the least, and shrublands had variable prevalence of exotics depending on the specific type of shrubland. Results suggest that vegetation maps can aid landscape planning of management strategies, such as prioritizing early detection and treatment in vegetation types currently little invaded.
Exposure Guidelines for Magnetic Resonance Imaging: The Most Successful Application of Electromagnetics in Biology and Medicine [Health Effects]

The International Nonionizing Radiation Protection Commission ( ICNIRP) is an independent group of experts with the responsibility to evaluate the state of knowledge about the effects of nonionizing radiation (NIR) on human health and well being and to provide science-based advice and recommendations on protection against harmful effects of NIR that include static electric and magnetic fields, RF waves, visible light, and ultraviolet radiation.
Title IX and the Problem of Gender Equality in Athletics

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in federally funded programs. In 1979, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) of the Department of Education, the agency charged with administering Title IX, issued a Policy Interpretation setting forth a three-prong test for Title IX compliance. Most basically, a prohibition on sex discrimination means that individuals, regardless of their sex, must be treated the same with respect to some relevant criteria. What the relevant criteria are against which individuals may properly be judged and distinguished varies by context. The most commonly proposed alternative to distributing varsity athletic positions based on the percentages of women and men in the undergraduate student body is to distribute athletic positions based on women and men's relative levels of interest in athletics. From a theoretical standpoint, distributing scarce resources based on interest level is strange and atypical.
Collaborative information synthesis

As the quantity of scientific literature continues to soar, scientists struggle to keep up with new findings, even in narrow areas of expertise. Although advances in information retrieval have eased the task of finding relevant articles, scientists now must face the challenge of aggregating information from within the retrieved set of documents. Our study explores the user behavior and information requirements of scientists as they interact with medical literature to answer research questions. We found that although their information needs were clearly defined, they still refined the retrieval, extraction, and analysis phases of a process that we have called information synthesis. We also found that they actively collaborated throughout the process. We describe their behavior and introduce our design and progress twoards our tool METIS (Multi-user ExTraction and Information Synthesis) that will support the collaborative information synthesis process used by public health and biomedical scientists.
Scheduling as a graph transformation

The scheduling of a set of tasks, with precedence constraints and known execution times, into a set of identical processors is considered. Optimal scheduling of these tasks implies utilizing a minimum number of processors to satisfy a deadline, or finishing in minimal time using a fixed number of processors. This process can be seen as a transformation of the original graph into another graph, whose precedences do not violate the optimality constraints and has a unique basic schedule. Analysis of this transformation provides insight into the scheduling process and also into the determination of lower bounds on the number of processors and on time for optimal schedules.
Assessing the Adsorption Properties of Mudrocks for CO2 Sequestration

Abstract The inherent complexity of microporous rocks together with their relatively low adsorption capacity as compared to commercial adsorbents represent a new scientific and technical challenge in the study of adsorption at supercritical conditions. In this paper, CO 2 adsorption isotherms are analyzed that have been measured on various microporous samples, thus including natural adsorbents, such as shales and clay minerals, and engineered materials, such as zeolites. The analysis focuses on the estimation of the density of adsorbed CO 2 , a parameter that is key to quantify the storage capacity of a given material. It is shown that the latter is significantly overestimated when the volume of the adsorbed phase is neglected, this being unfortunately a common practice in the assessment of the storage potential of geologic formations. At the same time, estimates of the density (or volume) of the adsorbed fluid are largely uncertain with values ranging between the critical and the solid density of the adsorbed even when the same experimental conditions are considered. More data at representative conditions are needed to assess the real contribution of adsorption to the storage capacity of shales. Simultaneously, experimental protocols need to be refined to quantify high-pressure adsorption in microporous solids, thus including the characterization of structural parameters, such as the porosity and the (inaccessible) skeletal volume.
Earthquake slip distribution: A statistical model

[1] The purpose of this paper is to interpret slip statistics in a framework of extended earthquake sources. We first discuss deformation pattern of the Earth's surface from earthquakes and suggest that continuum versus block motion controversy can be reconciled by a model of the fractal distribution of seismic sources. We consider earthquake slip statistical distributions as they can be inferred from seismic moment-frequency relations and geometrical scaling for earthquakes. Using various assumptions on temporal earthquake occurrence, these distributions are synthesized to evaluate the accuracy of geologic fault slip determinations and to estimate uncertainties in long-term earthquake patterns based on paleoseismic data. Because the seismic moment distribution is a power law (Pareto), a major part of the total seismic moment is released by major earthquakes, M >= 10(19.5) N m ( moment magnitude m >= 7); for these large earthquakes the rupture is confined to the upper brittle crust layer. We review the various moment-frequency and earthquake scaling relationships and apply them to infer the slip distribution at area- and site-specific regions. Simulating the seismic moment and strain accumulation process demonstrates that some synthetics can be interpreted as examples of a quasiperiodic sequence. We demonstrate the application of the derived slip statistical relations by analyzing the slip distribution and history of the San Andreas fault at Wrightwood, California.
ANALYSIS OF TEMPERATURE-PROGRAMMED DESORPTION FROM POROUS CATALYSTS IN A FLOW SYSTEM

A comparison is reported between experimental and simulation results obtained from temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) spectra for H2 and CO from Ni/SiO2 catalysts. The gas/solid system is selected as representative of these adsorbates interacting with a Group-VIII metal. Intraparticle concentration gadients can be minimized by using a bed of small porous catalyst particles perfused by a flow of carrier gas while under these conditions axial concentration gradients in the bed cannot be avoided. Previous models providing design criteria for analysis of TPD curves predict these conclusions, yet are overly restrictive. When allowance is made for repulsive interactions between adsorbates, it is found that significant redistribution of the adsorbate within the bed occurs. This results in nearly uniform adsorbed concentration profiles which are obtained when experimental conditions are selected properly. Consequently, specific guidelines can be offered to guide the experimentalist and methods are thus propo...
An extension of linear moving heat source solutions to a transient case in a composite system

Abstract The transient temperature distribution in a moving bar due to a step input of heat is presented for an insulated and an uninsulated system. It is also shown that this solution is valid for a slender composite system made up of materials of different properties moving independently when the components are of high conductivity and in intimate contact.
Properties of concrete produced from multicomponent blended cements

Abstract This paper presents a study on the behavior of concrete produced from multicomponent blended cements. These blends were prepared by blending 20–60% ASTM Type I cement with the combination of Class C fly ash and clean coal ash. Two percent to four percent sodium sulfate anhydrite was added to the blends as a chemical activator. Tests were conducted on the prepared concrete for strength development, freezing and thawing resistance, resistance to chloride ion penetration, sulfate resistance, and alkali silica reaction. Test results show that concrete produced from blended cements had equivalent or higher strength than the control mixture at all test ages. Blended cements were effective in controlling expansions due to sulfate attack or alkali silica reaction. They also reduced the deterioration of concrete due to freezing and thawing action and greatly increased the resistance to chloride ion penetration into the concrete.
Synthesis and reactivity of anthracenyl-substituted arenediynes

Cyclization reaction pathways of aryl-substituted arenediynes depend on the interplay between the steric interactions and electronic properties of the aryl substituents. Herein, to further probe the impact of bulky and electron rich aryl substituents on the cyclization of arenediynes, anthracenyl-substituted arenediynes (1–3) with different ortho substituents were synthesized and their thermal, photo, and radical initiated cyclization reactions were studied.
Identifying topological predicates for vague spatial objects

Many geographical applications deal with spatial objects that cannot be adequately described by determinate, crisp concepts because of their intrinsically indeterminate and vague nature. GIS and spatial database systems are currently unable to handle this kind of data. Based on recent work on vague spatial data types, which are part of a formal data model called VASA (Vague Spatial Algebra) and which leverage exact models of crisp spatial data types, this paper introduces a general mechanism for identifying topological predicates for vague spatial objects by means of topological predicates for crisp spatial objects. We illustrate this mechanism by deducing these predicates for vague points.
Inhibition of a cutaneous nociceptive reflex by a noxious visceral stimulus is mediated by spinal cholinergic and descending serotonergic systems in the rat.

Abstract The present study examined the spinal pathway and receptors that mediate nocigenic inhibition of the tail-flick (TF) reflex produced by conditioning colorectal distension (CRD). Conditioning CRD (80 mmHg; 30 s) inhibited the TF reflex in all rats studied ( n = 29). In 19 rats where intensity-dependent effects of CRD were studied, conditioning CRD in 7 rats facilitated the TF reflex at lesser, non-noxious intensities (mean 7.9 ± 2.1 mmHg) and inhibited the TF reflex at greater, noxious intensities (40–100 mmHg); conditioning CRD at all intensities tested only inhibited the TF reflex in the other 12 rats. Inhibition of the TF reflex produced by 30 s CRD was short-lasting, repeatable and graded with the intensity of CRD. The mean threshold of CRD for inhibition of the TF reflex to cut off (10 s) was 61.4 ± 3.3 mmHg ( n = 29). Intrathecal pretreatment with atropine or methysergide significantly attenuated the inhibitory effect of CRD on the TF reflex; the effects were time- and dose-related. Intrathecal pretreatment with mecamylamine, phentolamine or naloxone was without effect. Intrathecal administration of physostigmine, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitory, significantly reduced that threshold intensity of conditioning CRD necessary to inhibit the TF reflex to cut off (mean 36.0 ± 4.0 mmHg; n = 5). Bilateral transections of the spinal dorsolateral funiculi (DLF) did not affect the inhibitory effect of CRD in 4/7 rats and attenuated the inhibitory effect of CRD in the other 3 rats. The antagonistic effect of methysergide on CRD-produced inhibition of the TF reflex was abolished following the DLF transections, while scopolamine retained its efficacy in rats with bilateral DLF transections. These findings provide evidence for involvement of spinal cholinergic interneurons as well as a descending serotoninergic pathway traveling in the DLF in CRD-produced inhibition of the TF reflex.
Role of Channel Lysines and the “Push Through a One-Way Valve” Mechanism of the Viral DNA Packaging Motor

Linear double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) viruses package their genomes into preformed protein shells via nanomotors using ATP as an energy source. The central hub of the bacteriophage ϕ29 DNA-packaging motor contains a 3.6-nm channel for dsDNA to enter during packaging and to exit during infection. The negatively charged interior channel wall is decorated with a total of 48 positively charged lysine residues displayed as four 12-lysine rings from the 12 gp10 subunits that enclose the channel. The standard notion derived from many models is that these uniquely arranged, positively charged rings play active roles in DNA translocation through the channel. In this study, we tested this prevailing view by examining the effect of mutating these basic lysines to alanines, and assessing the impact of altering the pH environment. Unexpectedly, mutating these basic lysine residues or changing the pH to 4 or 10, which could alter the charge of lysines, did not measurably impair DNA translocation or affect the one-way traffic property of the channel. The results support our recent findings regarding the dsDNA packaging mechanism known as the “push through a one-way valve”.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration Among Early Intervention Faculty Members

Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to investigate interdisciplinary practices of 116 early intervention faculty. Results indicated that faculty engaged in a small amount of interdisciplinary teaching in their preservice programs. No significant differences were found in the amount of interdisciplinary teaching that faculty from four different discipline groups provided. Quantitative results indicated work environment variables were the strongest predictors of level of interdisciplinary collaboration. A content analysis revealed the most frequently reported hindrance to interdisciplinary collaboration was the work environment and the most frequently reported facilitator was the extent to which faculty value interdisciplinary collaboration. Findings suggest that policy supporting interdisciplinary service delivery has outstripped the field's capacity to prepare personnel using interdisciplinary practices.
Detection of sperm antigens on mouse ova and early embryos.

Abstract Serum and colostrum antibodies against mouse sperm were developed in two rabbits after systemic and mammary gland immunizations. Indirect immunofluorescence utilizing fluorescein-labeled goat antisera against rabbit IgG and IgA, respectively, indicated that both immune serum (IS) and colostrum (IC) compared with control samples caused intensive staining of the acrosome and tail of sperm. Absorption of IS and IC with mouse serum and the spleen, kidney, liver, and brain of male mice did not reduce the strength or the pattern of staining reaction on sperm. The absorbed IS reacted with cell surfaces of oocytes, unfertilized ova, zygotes, two-cell and four- to eight-cell fertilized ova, and blastocysts. The absorbed IC, however, reacted only with the four- to eight-cell embryo and blastocyst. Further absorption of the IS with mouse ovary removed the reaction with unfertilized ova and the one- to two-cell fertilized ova, but the staining of later embryo stages was unaffected. Therefore, it appears that specific rabbit anti-sperm antibodies are detecting two cell-membrane antigens on mouse embryos: one originating from the ovary and the other arising after fertilization.
Determining Soil Moisture from Geosynchronous Satellite Infrared Data: A Feasibility Study

Numerical modelling results are reported from a pilot study investigating the feasibility of developing a technique for daily soil moisture measurement throughout the world, based on GOES infrared data. A detailed one-dimensional boundary layer-surface-soil model was used in order to determine which physical parameters observable from GOES are most sensitive to soil moisture, and which are most effected by seasonal changes, atmospheric effects and vegetation cover. The results of the sensitivity test show that the mid-morning differential of surface temperature with respect to absorbed solar radiation is optimally sensitive to soil moisture. A case study comparing model results with GOES infrared data confirms the sensitivity of this parameter to soil moisture and also confirms the applicability of the model to predicting area-averaged surface temperature changes. Model measurements of soil moisture are expected to be most accurate for dry or marginal agricultural areas where drought is common. Sources of error, including the advection of clouds, are examined and methods of minimizing error are discussed.
Effects of salinity on methanogenic decomposition

Methanogenic enrichment cultures degrading lignocellulose, propionate, acetate, and H2CO2 were adapted to media of various salinities and specific growth rates were determined. NaCl concentrations up to 0·25 M had little effect on growth rate of propionate-, acetate-, or H2CO2-degrading cultures, but the growth rate of lignocellulose-degrading populations was about 50% inhibited by 0·25 M NaCl.
A model for ion channel voltage gating with static S4 segments

The voltage gated ion channels (especially for Na+ and K+, with several Ca2+ channels being closely related) of nerve and other membranes have been intensively studied for over 50 years; the gating mechanism is now being worked out, using several different lines of evidence. While the amino acid sequence of the protein which makes up the channels is known, and numerous sites have been mutated, with the mutations studied in a number of ways, there are still fundamental disagreements on the details of the gating mechanism. The protein is a tetramer (approximately), each domain having six transmembrane segments, with the fourth (S4) containing basic amino acids at every third position; the most common mechanism which has been proposed is to have S4 move some distance through the membrane, in the process opening the channel. We wish to propose a different mechanism, in which S4 remains stationary (or almost so). The “gate” is water, held in the pore by hydrogen bonding and by fields of the charges on amino ac...
Simultaneous searching of globally optimal interacting surfaces with shape priors

Multiple surface searching with only image intensity information is a difficult job in the presence of high noise and weak edges. We present in this paper a novel method for globally optimal multi-surface searching with a shape prior represented by convex pairwise energies. A 3-D graph-theoretic framework is employed. An arc-weighted graph is constructed based on a shape model built from training datasets. A wide spectrum of constraints is then incorporated. The shape prior term penalizes the local topological change from the original shape model. The globally optimal solution for multiple surfaces can be obtained by computing a maximum flow in low-order polynomial time. Compared with other graph-based methods, our approach provides more local and flexible control of the shape. We also prove that our algorithm can handle the detection of multiple crossing surfaces with no shared voxels. Our method was applied to several application problems, including medical image segmentation, scenic image segmentation, and image resizing. Compared with results without using shape prior information, our improvement was quite impressive, demonstrating the promise of our method.
Part 2. Automated change detection and characterization applied to serial MR of brain tumors may detect progression earlier than human experts.

An algorithm was developed which compares serial MRI brain examinations of brain tumor patients and judges them as either “stable” or “progressing”. A set of 88 serial MR cases were obtained, consisting of cases which were stable and remained stable for at least 8 months, cases which were stable but progressed in less than 8 months, and cases which were progressing. The algorithm was run and its output was compared to the original clinical interpretation. Of the exam pairs which were judged stable and which remained stable at least 8 months after the later examination, the algorithm diagnosed 45/46 as stable. For exam pairs judged to be progressing, the algorithm judged 15/17 to be progressing. Of the exam pairs which were judged stable, but which went on to progress less than 8 months after the later of the pair, 16/25 were judged by the algorithm to be progressing.
"Look-ahead distance" of a fiber probe used to assist neurosurgery: Phantom and Monte Carlo study

A short-separation, optical reflectance probe has been developed to assist the neurosurgeon in functional neurosurgery for accurate localization of the surgical target. Because of the scattering nature of tissue, the optical probe has a "Look Ahead Distance" (LAD), at which the measured optical reflectance starts to "see" or "sense" the underlying brain structure due to the difference in light scattering of tissue. To quantify the LAD, 2-layer laboratory phantoms have been developed to mimic gray and white matter of the brain, and Monte Carlo simulations have been also used to confirm the experimental findings. Based on both the laboratory and simulation results, a quantitative empirical equation is developed to express the LAD as a function of scattering coefficient of the measured tissue for a 400-micron-diameter fiber probe. The quantified LAD of the probe is highly desirable so as to improve the spatial resolution of the probe for better surgery guidance.
Virtual network scheduling design.

Network virtualization provides an effective means of supporting multiple client infrastructures over a physical substrate. Now over the years, many different provisioning algorithms have been developed for network virtualization services, most recently driven by the growth in new cloud-computing paradigms. However, as user demands continue to evolve, there is growing need to schedule virtual network requests at future time instants. This is a very complex problem given the high dimensionalities involved. Along these lines this paper solves one of the first optimization formulations for virtual network scheduling and compares the findings to some advanced heuristics.
Folding and activity of hybrid sequence, disulfide-stabilized peptides.

Abstract Peptides have been synthesized that have hybrid sequences, partially derived from the bee venom peptide apamin and partially from the S peptide of ribonuclease A. The hybrid peptides were demonstrated by NMR spectroscopy to fold, forming the same disulfides and basic three-dimensional structure as native apamin, containing a beta-turn and an alpha-helix. These hybrids were active in complementing S protein, reactivating nuclease activity. In addition, the hybrid peptide was effective in inducing antibodies that cross-react with the RNase, without conjugation to a carrier protein. The stability of the folded structure of this peptide suggests that it should be possible to elicit antibodies that will react not only with a specific sequence, but also with a specific secondary structure. Hybrid sequence peptides also provide opportunities to study separately nucleation and propagation steps in formation of secondary structure. We show that in S peptide the alpha-helix does not end abruptly but rather terminates gradually over four or five residues. In general, these hybrid sequence peptides, which fold predictably because of disulfide bond formation, can provide opportunities for examining structure-function relationships for many biologically active sequences.
Enantioselective recognition of amines with an atropisomeric 1,8-bisphenolnaphthalene

Abstract 1,8-Bis[5′(2′-hydroxy-4′-methylbiphenyl)]naphthalene, 2, was prepared from 1,8-dibromonaphthalene and 4-methoxy-2-methylphenylboronic acid in four steps with 51% overall yield. The axially chiral anti-isomer of 2 is stable to racemization at room temperature and the free energy of activation for the conversion of the anti-isomer to the syn-form was determined as 110.0 kJ/mol at 77.1 °C. At submillimolar concentration, enantiopure 2 can be used as circular dichroism sensor to detect a wide range of chiral amines.
PHARMACOKINETICS OF THE PERIPHERAL BENZODIAZEPINE RECEPTOR ANTAGONIST, PK 11195, IN RATS. THE EFFECT OF DOSE AND GENDER☆

In spite of the extensive use of the peripheral benzodiazepine (BZ) receptor antagonist, PK 11195 (PK), in pharmacological studies, there is a lack of information of its pharmacokinetics in the rat. In this study the pharmacokinetics of PK were determined after bolus intravenous (i.v.) administration in rat. The effects of dose and gender were evaluated in Sprague-Dawley age-matched male and female rats after the injection of PK (5, 10, 20 mg kg(-1)). Plasma was collected at 5-300 min. Levels of PK in plasma and brain were determined by a novel HPLC method. The stability of PK in blood in vitro was determined. PK is stable in rat blood in vitro. The pharmacokinetics of PK are described by a two-compartment model. The half-lives for distribution ( approximately 0.14 h) and elimination ( approximately 5.4 h) are not related to dose. The large volume of distribution (9-24 l kg(-1)) indicates an extensive distribution outside plasma. Total plasma clearance increases with increasing dose (23-42 ml min(-1)kg(-1)). The brain/plasma ratio ( approximately 3) is not related to dose. These finding suggest that the pharmacokinetics of PK are related to dose (5-20 mg kg(-1)) and gender in rat.
Characterization of Si3N4/SiO2 optical channel waveguides by photon scanning tunneling microscopy

Photon scanning tunneling microscopy (PSTM) is used to characterize Si3N4/Si02 optical channel waveguides being used for integrated optical-micromechanical sensors. PSTM utilizes an optical fiber tapered to a fine point which is piezoelectrically positioned to measure the decay of the evanescent field intensity associated with the waveguide propagating mode. Evanescent field decays are recorded for both ridge channel waveguides and planar waveguide regions. Values for the local effective refractive index are calculated from the data for both polarizations and compared to model calculations.
Perfect-balance planar clock routing with minimal path-length

In the design of high speed digital VLSI circuits, it is preferable that the clock net be routed on the metal layer with the smallest RC delay. This strategy not only avoids the difficulties of having different electrical parameters on different layers, but also eliminates the delay and attenuation of the clock signal through vias. The clock phase-delay is also decreased. An algorithm, based on max-min optimization, to construct a planar clock tree which can be embedded on a single metal layer is presented. The clock tree achieves equal path lengths, i.e., the lengths of the paths from the clock source to each clock terminal are exactly the same. In addition, the path length from the source to clock terminals is minimized. Some examples including industrial benchmarks have been tested, and the results are promising. >
Efficient optimization approaches to nonlinear model predictive control

Efficient optimization approaches for nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) are described in this paper. The first approach is based on the differential flatness property of a system of ordinary differential equations. The nonlinear process model is represented in terms of the flat outputs and their derivatives, and the nonlinear dynamic optimization problem is transformed into a nonlinear programming problem, with exact representation of the system dynamics. The approach is illustrated through the control of substrate concentration of a fed-batch bioreactor. The second approach is motivated by the idea of differential flatness, but is applicable to broader class of nonlinear systems. Here, the nonlinear process model is recast through the elimination of a subset of the system variables. This results in a nonlinear dynamic optimization with a reduced number of system variables that have to be solved for, as well as the dynamic equations. Applications of this approach to the optimization of a recombinant product in a fed-batch bioreactor and the control of a chemical reactor are presented. Both the approaches discussed in this paper provide up to a five fold improvement in the solution time for the optimization problem as compared to the traditional formulation. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dorsal funiculi lesions and position reversal learning in the rat.

Abstract Lesions to the dorsal funiculi in rats had no significant effects upon the learning of a position habit in a T maze, or upon the learning of a position reveral.
Metro sapiens: an urban species

A major step in our evolution occurred when we first began to organize and settle in cities. With more than half of the world’s population living in cities and all urban development since those first settlements expected to double by 2060 (UN 2011), cities are now very much the dominant habitat for our species. We are faced with a challenge to resolve our domesticated tendencies with resource and space limits of our planet. A fundamental aim of sustainability is to preserve the existence of our species; it is clear that we will need to embrace urbanism as a human quality to achieve that end. Our commitment to a global urban future demands that we move toward more sustainable urbanism. Accomplishing such a goal requires several important steps, all of which expand the fields of environmental and sustainability science and reinforce the value of considering urbanism. First, our relationship to urbanism should be expected to continue. Second, studies of cities and natural systems must recognize their inherent interdependencies. Finally, the local differences that make some cities healthier and ecologically supportive must be better understood. Each of these steps can generate broad research themes for new discovery. Recognizing our urban nature is a prerequisite.
Spatial Interpolation of Tidal Data in Irregularly-shaped Coastal Regions by Numerical Solution of Laplace's Equation

Abstract A method was developed for spatially interpolating tidal constituent amplitude and phase data using the numerical solution of Laplace's equation. The solution matches the input data values at ‘ internal boundaries ’, i.e., locations that represent observation stations. The boundary condition at land-water interfaces assumes that the normal derivative is proportional to the spatially-averaged value of the derivative in the normal direction. By adjusting the constant of proportionality at land boundaries, realistic distributions were obtained. An equivalent solution field can also be reconstructed by generating a set of weighting functions, thereby minimizing the number of solution fields needed. The method was tested in a simple basin and the solution was evaluated for a variety of parameters such as cell size, grid orientation, and boundary proportionality constant. The method was then applied to San Francisco Bay and distributions of tidal constituent amplitudes and epochs were compared with those generated by a numerical circulation model.
Unjust War and a Soldier's Moral Dilemma

This paper explores the central question of why soldiers in democratic societies might decide to fight in wars that they may have reason to believe are objectively or questionably unjust. First, I provide a framework for understanding the dilemma caused by an unjust war and a soldier's competing moral obligations; namely, the obligations to self and state. Next, I address a few traditional key thoughts concerning soldiers and jus ad bellum. This is followed by an exploration of the unique and contradicting moral problems that confront modern soldiers and their officers. I argue that although traditional positions such as invincible ignorance provide a rather dangerous ‘head-in-the-sand’ mentality, soldiers serving a democratic government are nonetheless very limited in their legal and moral ability to interpret what is a justifiable war. However, a very few select senior officers are in positions to make such legal and moral decisions concerning jus ad bellum.
Group-oriented mobile services: Requirements and solutions

Emerging mobile services, including m-commerce, have received considerable interest among researchers, developers, service providers, and users. Some of these mobile services will be group-oriented and thus require the support for group communications among mobile users. In this paper, several group-oriented mobile services and their specific requirements are presented and discussed. Several wireless solutions are also presented to meet the diverse and complex requirements of group-oriented mobile services.
Characterization of the latent image to developed image in model EUV photoresists

Current extreme ultraviolet (EUV) photoresist materials do not yet meet performance requirements on exposure-dose sensitivity, line-width roughness, and resolution. In order to quantify how these trade-offs are related to the materials properties of the resist and processing conditions, advanced measurements and fundamental studies are required that consider EUV-resist specific problems. In this paper, we focus on the correlations between the latent image and developed image in EUV exposed line/space features. The latent images of isolated lines produced by EUV lithography are characterized by atomic force microscopy through the change in topology caused by change in film thickness that occurs upon deprotection. The resulting latent-image deprotection gradient (DGL), based on line cross-sections, and latent-image line-width roughness (LWRL) provide metrics and insight into ways to optimize the lithographic process. The results from a model poly(hydroxystyrene-co-tert-butylacrylate) resist and a model calix[4]resorcinarene molecular glass type resist show the general applicability of the metric before development.