cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lifestyle Modification for Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Abstract Background All 5 components of metabolic syndrome have been shown to improve with lifestyle and diet modification. New strategies for achieving adherence to meaningful lifestyle change are needed to optimize atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk reduction. We performed a systematic literature review, based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework (PRISMA), investigating optimal methods for achieving lifestyle change in metabolic syndrome. Methods We submitted standardized search terms to the PubMed Central, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Ovid databases. Within those results, we selected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) presenting unique methods of achieving lifestyle change in patients with one or more components of the metabolic syndrome. Data extraction using the population, intervention, comparator, outcome, and risk of bias framework (PICO) was used to compare the following endpoints: prevalence of metabolic syndrome, prevalence of individual metabolic syndrome components, mean number of metabolic syndrome components, and amount of weight loss achieved. Results Twenty-eight RCTs (6372 patients) were included. Eight RCTs demonstrated improvement in metabolic syndrome risk factors after 1 year. Team-based, interactive approaches with high-frequency contact with patients who are motivated made the largest and most lasting impact. Technology was found to be a useful tool in achieving lifestyle change, but ineffective when compared with personal contact. Conclusion Patient motivation leading to improved lifestyle adherence is a key factor in achieving reduction in metabolic syndrome components. These elements can be enhanced via frequent encounters with the health care system. Use of technologies such as mobile and Internet-based communication can increase the effectiveness of lifestyle change in metabolic syndrome, but should not replace personal contact as the cornerstone of therapy. Our ability to derive quantitative conclusions is limited by inconsistent outcome measures across studies, low power and homogeneity of individual studies, largely motivated study populations, short follow-up periods, loss to follow-up, and lack of or incomplete blinding.
A note on the Manickam-Miklós-Singhi conjecture

For k@?Z^+, let f(k) be the minimum integer N such that for all n>=N, every set of n real numbers with nonnegative sum has at least (n-1k-1)k-element subsets whose sum is also nonnegative. In 1988, Manickam, Miklos, and Singhi proved that f(k) exists and conjectured that f(k)@?4k. In this note, we prove f(3)=11, f(4)@?24, and f(5)@?40, which improves previous upper bounds in these cases. Moreover, we show how our method could potentially yield a quadratic upper bound on f(k). We end by discussing how our methods apply to a vector space analogue of the Manickam-Miklos-Singhi conjecture.
Acute implantation of an avulsed lumbosacral ventral root into the rat conus medullaris promotes neuroprotection and graft reinnervation by autonomic and motor neurons

Trauma to the conus medullaris and cauda equina may result in autonomic, sensory, and motor dysfunctions. We have previously developed a rat model of cauda equina injury, where a lumbosacral ventral root avulsion resulted in a progressive and parallel death of motoneurons and preganglionic parasympathetic neurons, which are important for i.e. bladder control. Here, we report that an acute implantation of an avulsed ventral root into the rat conus medullaris protects preganglionic parasympathetic neurons and motoneurons from cell death as well as promotes axonal regeneration into the implanted root at 6 weeks post-implantation. Implantation resulted in survival of 44±4% of preganglionic parasympathetic neurons and 44±4% of motoneurons compared with 22% of preganglionic parasympathetic neurons and 16% of motoneurons after avulsion alone. Retrograde labeling from the implanted root at 6 weeks showed that 53±13% of surviving preganglionic parasympathetic neurons and 64±14% of surviving motoneurons reinnervated the graft. Implantation prevented injury-induced atrophy of preganglionic parasympathetic neurons and reduced atrophy of motoneurons. Light and electron microscopic studies of the implanted ventral roots demonstrated a large number of both myelinated axons (79±13% of the number of myelinated axons in corresponding control ventral roots) and unmyelinated axons. Although the diameter of myelinated axons in the implanted roots was significantly smaller than that of control roots, the degree of myelination was appropriate for the axonal size, suggesting normal conduction properties. Our results show that preganglionic parasympathetic neurons have the same ability as motoneurons to survive and reinnervate implanted roots, a prerequisite for successful therapeutic strategies for autonomic control in selected patients with acute conus medullaris and cauda equina injuries.
Eddy currents and modelling

This paper has two goals: 1) to present a bibliographic survey of numerical methods for eddy current field computation and device modelling, and 2) to discuss the application of constraints to eddy current/skin effect problems.
Theoretical investigations of dynamic behavior of isothermal continuous stirred tank biological reactors

Abstract The dynamic behavior of an isothermal biological CSTR modelled by idealized cell and substrate balance equations has been investigated theoretically in terms of multiplicity and stability of steady states and existence and stability character of limit cycles. Various types of dynamic behavior have been classified in terms of a Damkohler number and two other system parameters. The predicted types of behavior have been illustrated by numerical computation of cell and substrate concentration trajectories.
Statistical Electron Density Distributions and Thomas-Fermi-Dirac Screening Functions for Neutral Atoms

Statistical electron density distributions and Thomas-Fermi-Dirac (TFD) screening functions have been obtained for the 104 elements corresponding to integral atomic numbers $Z=2$ to $Z=105$, for 117 values of radial distance from the atomic center in each case. These results were calculated, in part, by using Thomas' solutions of the TFD equation in terms of the statistical electron distributions for nonintegral values of $Z$ and Jensen's boundary conditions. Values for argon and copper are given here. The complete set of tables for all 104 elements has been deposited with the American Documentation Institute Auxiliary Publications Project.
Making mashups with marmite: towards end-user programming for the web

There is a tremendous amount of web content available today, but it is not always in a form that supports end-users' needs. In many cases, all of the data and services needed to accomplish a goal already exist, but are not in a form amenable to an end-user. To address this problem, we have developed an end-user programming tool called Marmite, which lets end-users create so-called mashups that re-purpose and combine existing web content and services. In this paper, we present the design, implementation, and evaluation of Marmite. An informal user study found that programmers and some spreadsheet users had little difficulty using the system.
No Evidence for a Common Evolutionary Origin of 5S rRNA and tRNA (Reply)

MULLINS et al. reply: Holmquist and Jukes have criticized the methodology and conclusions of our reported demonstration1 of sequence similarities between certain of the tRNAs and Escherichia coli 5S rRNA, contending that these homologies are artefactual because the number of gaps employed results in an unwieldy number of possible comparisons which can be made and that these gaps were inserted at different places in both molecules when different tRNAs were aligned with E. coli 5S rRNA.
Amateur Scientists, the International Geophysical Year, and the Ambitions of Fred Whipple

ABSTRACT The contribution of amateur scientists to the International Geophysical Year (IGY) was substantial, especially in the arena of spotting artificial satellites. This article examines how Fred L. Whipple and his colleagues recruited satellite spotters for Moonwatch, a program for amateur scientists initiated by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) in 1956. At the same time, however, the administrators with responsibility for the IGY program closely monitored and managed—sometimes even contested—amateur participation. IGY programs like Moonwatch provided valuable scientific information and gave amateurs opportunities to contribute actively to the research of professional scientists. Moonwatch, which operated until 1975, eventually became the public face of a vast satellite‐tracking network that expanded the SAO’s global reach and helped further Whipple’s professional goals. Understanding amateurs’ interactions with the professional science community enables us better to understand the IGY ...
Dynamic culture in a rotating-wall vessel bioreactor differentially inhibits murine T-lymphocyte activation by mitogenic stimuli upon return to static conditions in a time-dependent manner.

Depressed immune function is a well-documented effect of spaceflight. Both in-flight studies and ground-based studies using microgravity analogs, such as rotating wall vessel (RWV) bioreactors, hav...
In search of the abominable consent form: The impact of readability and personalization

This study assessed the impact of readability and personalization of informed consent forms on initial impressions of therapists and on recall of the information provided on the forms. Eighty-five participants received consent forms that varied in terms of readability and personalization, and were asked to rate their impressions of the therapist. More readable forms increased participants' impressions of the therapist's expertness and the form's helpfulness. Personalized forms increased ratings of the attractiveness of the therapist, and of the relevance of-and satisfaction with-the forms. Personalized forms also tended to increase recall. These properties of consent forms may indeed influence how clients initially react to therapists.
Self-Archiving Journal Articles: A Case Study of Faculty Practice and Missed Opportunity.

Carnegie Mellon faculty Web pages and publisher policies were examined to understand self-archiving practice. The breadth of adoption and depth of commitment are not directly correlated within the disciplines. Determining when self-archiving has become a habit is difficult. The opportunity to self-archive far exceeds the practice, and much of what is self-archived is not aligned with publisher policy. Policy appears to influence neither the decision to self-archive nor the article version that is self-archived. Because of the potential legal ramifications, faculty must be convinced that copyright law and publisher policy are important and persuaded to act on that conviction.
Depth Cues Versus the Simplicity Principle in 3D Shape Perception

Two experiments were performed to explore the mechanisms of human 3D shape perception. In Experiment 1, the subjects' performance in a shape constancy task in the presence of several cues (edges, binocular disparity, shading and texture) was tested. The results show that edges and binocular disparity, but not shading or texture, are important in 3D shape perception. Experiment 2 tested the effect of several simplicity constraints, such as symmetry and planarity on subjects' performance in a shape constancy task. The 3D shapes were represented by edges or vertices only. The results show that performance with or without binocular disparity is at chance level, unless the 3D shape is symmetric and/or its faces are planar. In both experiments, there was a correlation between the subjects' performance with and without binocular disparity. Our study suggests that simplicity constraints, not depth cues, play the primary role in both monocular and binocular 3D shape perception. These results are consistent with our computational model of 3D shape recovery.
Energy levels in 145Sm from the decay of 145Eu

Abstract A total of 24 gamma rays following the decay of 145 Eu have been observed with a Ge(Li) detector; 17 of them correspond to ground state transitions in 145 Sm, which gives the level energies to a much greater precision than was possible with (d, p) results alone. Some gamma-gamma coincidence results using a Ge(Li) detector are reported. The conversion coefficients and multipolarities are analysed from these and other results. The inter-level transition locations are discussed but not resolved.
The Development and Evaluation of the Keybowl: A Study on an Ergonomically Designed Alphanumeric Input Device:

This paper provides a description and discloses preliminary findings of a newly designed alphanumeric keyboard called the Keybowl. The Keybowl was designed and developed to provide a solution to the multi-million dollar a year problem of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) as it relates to typing. The Keybowl totally eliminates finger movement, minimizes wrist movement, and uses the concept of concurrent independent inputs (a.k.a. chording) in which two domes are moved laterally to type. Initial results indicate that users of the Keybowl typed an average of 52% of their regular keyboard speed in as little as five hours. In regard to ergonomic advantage, flexion/extension wrist movements have been reduced by an average of 81.5% while movements in the ulnar/radial plane were reduced by an average of 48%.
Biophysical dissection of the antigen-antibody interaction of the broadly reactive anti-V3 human mAb 447-52D

Background The immunogenic third variable region (V3) of HIV-1 gp120 is a target for AIDS vaccines. V3 is recognized by mAb 447-52D, known for its ability to neutralize viruses with a GPGR beta turn motif at the apex of V3, which is characteristic of clade B viruses. Interestingly, 447-52D can also bind non-clade B V3 peptides containing a GPGQ motif. A detailed biochemical and biophysical dissection of the antigen-antibody interaction of 447-52D was undertaken to understand this disparity.
Toddlers' Emotional Reactions to Separation from Their Primary Caregivers: Successful Home--School Transition.

The purpose of this study was to examine toddlers’ emotional reactions to separation from their primary caregivers through the observation on a group of toddlers (18–30 months old) at a university preschool classroom. Interactional ethnography with ethnographic perspective and sociolinguistic discourse analysis was used as the theoretical framework to investigate individual children’s behavioral patterns from an insider’s perspective. The focus was on the multiple interactions between and among the participants in this specific cultural setting. The observation on children and the interviews with the informants supported most previous studies on the interaction between children and parents and its impact on young children’s transition from home to school setting. Additionally, different perceptions from teachers, parents and grandparents were compared on how to help young children deal with the stress during transition time. The finding of this study contributes to the literature that younger children (in...
Composition and chemistry of particulates from a PFBC demonstration plant

Particulates from the combustor bed drain, cyclone drain and filter cakes of the Tidd 70 MW e pressurized fluidized bed combustion plant were analysed for particle size distribution and for compounds derived from the dolomitic sulfur sorbent injected into the bed. As expected, the bed material consisted chiefly of coal ash, orthorhombic CaSO 4 and MgO. The elutriated particles captured by the cyclone and filters also contained ash and CaSO 4 , but X-ray diffraction patterns revealed that the Mg in the filter cakes was present as a compound known in the literature as Mg 3 Ca(SO 4 ) 4 . Analyses showed that the compound in question was formed in the filter cakes, yielded its production rate, and showed that it was the product of the (unintended) reduction of SO 2 emissions by the filter vessel. However, it was also shown that the correct stoichiometry of this important compound is Mg 2 Ca(SO 4 ) 3 , not Mg 3 Ca(SO 4 ) 4 .
Bioanalytical applications of fast capillary electrophoresis

Capillary electrophoresis is unique among liquid-phase separations in its utility for fast separations. Development of technology such as optical-gating, flow-gating, and microfabrication has allowed separations on the millisecond time scale to be developed. The fast separation times place great demands on the detector systems, frequently requiring detection limits below 1 amol to be practical. The development of such fast separations has opened many new applications not previously feasible for separations-based methods. This has included real time chemical monitoring, detection of short-lived species such as protein conformers or non-covalent complexes, and rapid multi-dimensional separations. Other applications currently being developed include high-throughput assays for clinical laboratories or screening combinatorial libraries. This review covers recent developments in the instrumentation for fast CE and some of the applications.
In situ spectroscopic evidence for neptunium(V)-carbonate inner-sphere and outer-sphere ternary surface complexes on hematite surfaces.

Np(V) surface speciation on hematite surfaces at pH 7−9 under pCO2 = 10-3.45 atm was investigated using X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). In situ XAS analyses suggest that bis-carbonato inner-sp...
Environmental protection and the Hungarian transition

Abstract Drawing upon the agenda-building literature, I examine how and why the issue of environmental protection came to be on the political agenda in Hungary, in both the Communist and post-Communist regimes. If we assume that regime type matters, there should be differences with regard to how and why the environment was placed on the institutional (formal) agenda in the Communist and post-Communist governments. The agenda-setting literature is, however, based on stable political systems rather than systems in transition. Thus, the agenda-building process in the two regime types may not be as different as expected. This leads to the second research question: How does the democratic transition process impact agenda-building processes in the environmental issue area?
AN EXAMINATION FOR BIAS IN A PRESCHOOL TEST BATTERY ACROSS RACE AND SEX

The past decade has witnessed a substantial surge of interest in preschool assessment, and in the differential validity of psychological tests when used with individuals of varying cultural backgrounds. The use of tests normed primarily on white children is of special concern to educators due to the specifications of P. L. 94-142 (Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975) and the now famous Larry P. case in San Francisco.' Harrington (1975) has gone so far as to state that it is not possible for tests developed and normed on a white majority to be other than biased against minorities, or to predict accurately when used with minorities. In reporting on the use of educational and psychological tests with disadvantaged students, a committee appointed by the American Psychological Association, Board of Scientific Affairs (Cleary, Humphreys, Kendrick, & Wesman, 1975) offered a definition of test bias. While including content and construct validity as important variables in the issue of bias, the emphasis was clearly on predictive validity: "A test is considered fair for a particular use if the inference drawn from the test score is made with the smallest feasible random error and if there is no constant error in the inference as a function of
Preliminary design and performance study of a sandwich thermoelectric converter of solar energy

Abstract A sandwich thermoelectric converter of solar energy for use in space power generation has been designed and evaluated in order to show its potential merit compared with that of other conversion methods. The design incorporates an interference optical filter coated onto a plane collector and a highly emissive paint on a plane radiator foil. Very small PbTe and ZnSb thermoelectric elements are alloyed to electrically insulated sections of these foils to produce an extremely light-weight, low-cost converter. Best results indicate that a single power supply may accomplish thermoelectric conversion for 73 lb/kW(e) when operating in the Venus to Mars radial range from the Sun, for 31 lb/kW(e) in the Venus to Earth range, and for 23 lb/kW(e) at the Venus radius. At the Earth's solar radius, less optimistic results are 39 and 54 lb/kW(e), depending on the assumptions. Performance, reliability, and cost comparisons with other conversion methods are discussed.
The [4B-3H] NADH-H2O exchange reaction of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase

Abstract The purified mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase enzyme has been shown to catalyze a rapid [4B-3H] NADH-H2O exchange reaction. When the enzyme is subjected to a single freeze-thaw cycle there is a complete loss of NADH dehydrogenation without a measurable decrease in the [4B-3H] NADH-H2O exchange. Complete loss of the [4B-3H] NADH-H2O exchange follows brief exposure to ultraviolet photoirradiation. The differential sensitivity of the water exchange reaction and the dehydrogenase activity suggests a direct involvement of the enzymes flavin cofactor in the catalysis of the [4B-3H] NADH-H2O exchange. Arylazido-β-alanyl NAD+ (A3′-0-{3-[N-4-azido-2-nitrophenyl)amino] propionyl}NAD+) is shown to be a potent photodependent inhibitor of the [4B-3H] NADH-H2O exchange activity following photoirradiation with visible light. This is consistent with the observed photodependent inhibition of the dehydrogenase activity by this photoprobe (Chen, S. and Guillory, R.J. (1981) J. Biol. Chem. 256 , 8318–8323).
Studies of the Afterglow in Mercury Vapor. I. Intensity Pressure Relations

The intensities of the stronger lines in the subordinate series of the afterglow spectrum of mercury were measured by photographic methods as a function of vapor pressure from 0.1 mm to 2.0 mm Hg in a stream of vapor distilled from a mercury arc into a side tube. Measurements made with the ion concentration held constant at the point of observation showed that increasing the pressure not only greatly increased the intensity of a given line but also caused a marked change in the intensity distribution in a given series. At constant pressure the intensities varied approximately linearly with ion concentration. The introduction of fast electrons into the stream quenched the line spectrum of the afterglow. Quenching also resulted from the removal of positive ions. The results indicate that the line spectrum of the afterglow is produced by a complex recombination process in which collisions with neutral atoms are important, probably resulting in the formation of molecular particles which later break up to produce the excited atoms responsible for the spectrum. Diffuse bands, attributable to molecules each composed of a neutral atom and an atom in one of the $6^{3}P_{0,1,2}$ states, were observed under certain conditions.
The Boreal-Summer Intraseasonal Oscillations Simulated in a Hybrid Coupled Atmosphere–Ocean Model*

Abstract The boreal-summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO) simulated by an atmosphere–ocean coupled model is validated with the long-term observations [Climate Prediction Center (CPC) Merged Analysis of Precipitation (CMAP) rainfall, ECMWF analysis, and Reynolds' SST]. This validation focuses on the three-dimensional water vapor cycle associated with the BSISO and its interaction with underlying sea surface. The advantages of a coupled approach over stand-alone atmospheric approaches on the simulation of the BSISO are revealed through an intercomparison between a coupled run and two atmosphere-only runs. This coupled model produces a BSISO that mimics the one presented in the observations over the Asia– western Pacific region. The similarities with the observations include 1) the coherent spatiotemporal evolutions of rainfall, surface winds, and SST associated with the BSISO; 2) the intensity and period (or speed) of the northward-propagating BSISO; and 3) the tropospheric moistening (or drying) and ove...
Multidimensional Particle Codes: Their Capabilities and Limitations

Increasing the number of dimensions calls for significant changes in simulation techniques. Demand on computer time and space increases by orders of magnitude and hardware development affects the feasibility. Gridless and Fokker-Planck codes are possible in 1D, but one needs grids and PIC codes in 2D and 3D. This imposes limits on Debye lengths, particle size and spacing, and on resolution. Nonspectral (local) E-M codes also suffer a Courant restriction on δt, in addition to the usual ωp δt restriction. Spectral methods therefore have an advantage; they also permit convenient filtering, particle shaping and control of resolution. 2D and 21/2D codes are well advanced and documented (4,5). 3D codes are in their infancy. Data management, rather than physics or numerical analysis, becomes the major problem (10). Machine-independent 3D codes are too limited in resolution and speed. Parallelism helps greatly but makes the 3D codes machine-dependent. A present-day limit is attempted in a 2*128**3 grid code for CRAYs which process ~ 5 million particles in ~ 2 minutes per time step. Layering is employed to break up the 3D problem into many 2D problems. Fields and particles are packed and buffered in and out of core. Diagnostics are limited by the large volume of information accumulated in a run. Results of runs with 3D codes have tended to show that the third dimension, treated as “ignorable” in 2D simulations, should not have been ignored. With the next generation of highly parallel multiprocessors (which, however, call for the abandonment of spectral and implicit methods ) one may hope to do very realistic 3D simulations.
Laminectomy and extension of instrumented fusion improves 2-year pain, disability, and quality of life in patients with adjacent segment disease: defining the long-term effectiveness of surgery.

Objective Adjacent segment disease (ASD) may occur as a long-term consequence of spinal fusion and is associated with significant back and leg pain. Surgical management of symptomatic ASD consists of neural decompression and extension of fusion. However, conflicting results have been reported with respect to the long-term clinical effectiveness of revision surgery in this setting. We set out to comprehensively assess the long-term clinical outcome after revision surgery and determine its effectiveness in the treatment of adjacent segment disease. Methods Fifty patients undergoing revision surgery for ASD-associated back and leg pain were included in this study. Baseline and 2-year Visual Analog Scale–Back Pain (VAS-BP), Visual Analog Scale–Leg Pain (VAS-LP), Oswestry Disability Index, physical and mental quality of life (Short Form–12 [SF-12] physical and mental component score [PCS and MCS]) and health-state utility (EuroQol [EQ-5D]) were assessed. Results A sustained improvement in VAS-BP (8.72 ± 1.85 vs. 3.92 ± 2.84, P = 0.001), VAS-LP (6.30 ± 3.90 vs. 3.02 ± 3.03, P = 0.001), Oswestry Disability Index (28.72 ± 9.64 vs. 18.48 ± 11.31, P = 0.001), SF-12 PCS (26.89 ± 8.85 vs. 35.58 ± 11.97, P = 0.001) and SF-12 MCS (44.66 ± 12.85 vs. 53.16 ± 9.46, P = 0.001) was observed 2 years after revision surgery, with a cumulative mean 2-year gain of 0.76 quality-adjusted life-years (EQ-5D). Median (interquartile range) time to narcotic independence and return to work was 1.7 (1.0–8.0) months and 2.0 (1.0–4.75) months, respectively. Conclusions Patients undergoing decompression and extension of fusion for adjacent segment disease–associated back and leg pain reported long-term improvement in pain, disability, and both physical and mental quality of life, suggesting that revision surgery is a highly effective treatment strategy in this patient population.
Diffusion-Controlled Reaction Kinetics

The theory of diffusion-controlled correlated reaction kinetics is developed for the radiation boundary condition (RBC) at the reaction surface. Limited only by the assumptions of purely radial spatial dependence, of a spherical reaction surface, and of continuum diffusion, these results comprise a complete solution for these kinetics. The limiting solutions are obtained for the case of the Smoluchowski boundary condition (SBC) at the reaction surface; numerical solutions are presented, as are the analytic forms of certain limiting cases. The initial recovery for the RBC is linear in time, whereas for the SBC it is well known to be proportional to the square root of time. The discussion is presented in the context of radiation damage in solids, although the results are applicable to other fast-kinetics systems, e.g., radiation and photophysics, chemistry, and biology.
Immobilization of the vas in office vasectomy.

Vasectomy can become difficult when the vas slips out of the surgeons fingers. When vasectomy is done during prostatectomy a towel clip is often used to grasp the vas through the scrotum prior to incision. In office vasectomy the vas is localized prior to local anesthesia; thus a towel clip for immobilization would be painful. Some have placed a needle through the skin beneath the subcutaneous vas to immoblize it; this too is painful. An old towel clip with modifications has been found to be ideal. The overlapping pointed ends are ground off and the smooth ends just touch when the clamp is closed. This clamp is used to immobilize the vas once localized to a subcutaneous position and causes only a pinch of pain to the patient.(FULL TEXT)
Glycosylation site prediction using ensembles of Support Vector Machine classifiers

Background Glycosylation is one of the most complex post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins in eukaryotic cells. Glycosylation plays an important role in biological processes ranging from protein folding and subcellular localization, to ligand recognition and cell-cell interactions. Experimental identification of glycosylation sites is expensive and laborious. Hence, there is significant interest in the development of computational methods for reliable prediction of glycosylation sites from amino acid sequences.
Artistic Simulacra in the Age of Recombinant Bodies

Enveloped in the rhetoric of a brave new world of genomic application, surrounded by a culture enlivened by hopeful medical breakthroughs, and awash in media rumors of secret stock trades and biotech deals, a groundswell of artistic activity has been inhabiting the interface of technology and culture, biology and body, algorithmic computing and artistic creation for almost two decades. Of particular cultural and artistic importance is the combination of interdisciplinary research and creative production brought about by the arrival of The Human Genome Project. Employing concepts articulated by Walter Benjamin, most notably "artistic simulacra," this essay considers the range and cultural stakes of artworks, exhibitions, and catalogues that dialogue with the Human Genome Project, as well as the cultural stakes of such artistic experimentation. It demonstrates how projects in digital and technological art have articulated with prophetic forcefulness the complex sociocultural challenges facing humanists in an increasingly corporatized intellectual and political culture.
Virtual metrology and feedback control for semiconductor manufacturing processes using recursive partial least squares

Abstract Virtual metrology (VM) is the prediction of metrology variables (either measurable or non-measurable) using process state and product information. In the past few years VM has been proposed as a method to augment existing metrology and has the potential to be used in control schemes for improved process control in terms of both accuracy and speed. In this paper, we propose a VM based approach for process control of semiconductor manufacturing processes on a wafer-to-wafer (W2W) basis. VM is realized by utilizing the pre-process metrology data and more importantly the process data from the underlying tools that is generally collected in real-time for fault detection (FD) purposes. The approach is developed for a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) process that may experience metrology delays, consistent process drifts, and sudden shifts in process drifts. The partial least squares (PLS) modeling technique is applied in a novel way to derive a linear regression model for the underlying process, suitable for VM purposes. A recursive moving-window approach is developed to update the VM module whenever metrology data is available. The VM data is then utilized to develop a W2W process control capability using a common run-to-run control technique. The proposed approach is applied to a simulated MIMO process and the results show considerable improvement in wafer quality as compared to other control solutions that only use lot-to-lot metrology information.
Postbuckling behavior of laminated plates using a direct energy-minimization technique

The postbuckling behavior of rectangular, flat, laminated, or sandwich plates is investigated using a model including the different anisotropic material coupling terms, the effect of transverse shear deformation, nonlinear strains, and initial out-of-plane imperfections. The Rayleigh-Ritz method is used to discretize the problem and, instead of solving a set of partial-diffe rential equations, a direct energy-minimization technique is used to solve the problem numerically. The solution procedure used is described in detail in the first part of this paper, and the results obtained for three example problems are presented in the second part. These results correlate well with corresponding experimental data that are also presented.
A Device for Performing Automated Balloon Catheter Inflation Ischemia Studies

Coronary collateral growth (arteriogenesis) is a physiological adaptive response to transient and repetitive occlusion of major coronary arteries in which small arterioles (native collaterals) with minimal to no blood flow remodel into larger conduit arteries capable of supplying adequate perfusion to tissue distal to the site of occlusion. The ability to reliably and reproducibly mimic transient, repetitive coronary artery occlusion (ischemia) in animal models is critical to the development of therapies to restore coronary collateral development in type II diabetes and the metabolic syndrome. Current animal models for repetitive coronary artery occlusion implement a pneumatic occluder (balloon) that is secured onto the surface of the heart with the suture, which is inflated manually, via a catheter connected to syringe, to effect occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD). This method, although effective, presents complications in terms of reproducibility and practicality. To address these limitations, we have designed a device for automated, transient inflation of balloon catheters in coronary artery occlusion models. This device allows repeated, consistent inflation (to either specified pressure or volume) and the capability for implementing very complex, month-long protocols. This system has significantly increased the reproducibility of coronary collateral growth studies in our laboratory, resulting in a significant decrease in the numbers of animals needed to complete each study while relieving laboratory personnel from the burden of extra working hours and enabling us to continue studies over periods when we previously could not. In this paper, we present all details necessary for construction and operation of the inflator. In addition, all of the components for this device are commercially available and economical (Table S1). It is our hope that the adoption of automated balloon catheter inflation protocols will improve the experimental reliability of transient ischemia studies at many research institutions.
Neuroplasmic transport in the nervous system of the cockroach Periplaneta americana

Neuroplasmic transport phenomena were studied in the nervous system of the cockroach, Periplaneta americana. For proteins, at least two major rates of movement can be resolved by liquid scintillation counting of incorporated C14-labelled amino acids in serial slices of nerve cord. The slower of the two rates is 1−2 mm/day and appears identical to the “slow” flow well documented for vertebrate neurons. Evidence for an even faster movement is presented. The suitability of the cockroach nerve cord as a model system for the study of the mechanism and control of the movement of the neuroplasmic constituents is discussed.
Graphene as a Novel Matrix for the Analysis of Small Molecules by MALDI-TOF MS

Graphene was utilized for the first time as a matrix for the analysis of low molecular weight compounds using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Polar compounds including amino acids, polyamines, anticancer drugs, and nucleosides could be successfully analyzed. Additionally, nonpolar compounds including steroids could be detected with high resolution and sensitivity. Compared with a conventional matrix, graphene exhibited a high desorption/ionization efficiency for nonpolar compounds. The graphene matrix functions as a substrate to trap analytes, and it transfers energy to the analytes upon laser irradiation, which allows for the analytes to be readily desorbed/ionized and interference of intrinsic matrix ions to be eliminated. The use of graphene as a matrix avoided the fragmentation of analytes and provided good reproducibility and a high salt tolerance, underscoring the potential application of graphene as a matrix for MALDI MS analysis of pract...
New Technique for Decorating Dislocations in Olivine

Oxidation of iron-rich olivine induced in the laboratory causes preferential precipitation on lattice dislocations. This simple dislocation decoration technique greatly reduces the cost and time involved in surveying the dislocation structures of deformed olivine crystals and opens the way to a more thorough understanding of the deformation of this important geologic material.
Progesterone treatment of the obesity hypoventilation syndrome in a child.

THE OBESITY HYPOVENTILATION SYNDROME, consisting of extreme obesity, somnolence, plethora, and edema,' is uncommon but life-threatening in children? -'~ Vital capacity is decreased, the cardiac silhouette is enlarged, and hypoxemia and hypercapnea are present, especially during sleep. Weight reduction may help correct ventilation/. '-' but weight reduction is difficult to achieve, nearly impossible to maintain, and alone may not completely correct the ventilatory abnormality. 1 ~ ~ Progesterone, whether endogenous (as in pregnancy and the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle "-*~) or exogenous (in healthy male and female volunteers 1~ ~), increases minute ventilation and reduces alveolar Pco2, probably by increasing the sensitivity of the respiratory center to carbon dioxide?' Intramuscularly 7 and sublingually 1:' administered progesterone correct alveolar hypoventilation in adults with OHS. The use of orally administered progesterone in this condition or progesterone treatment by any route of administration in children with OHS has not been reported. We document here the correction of alveolar hypoventilation by parenteral, and subsequently oral, administration of progesterone in a child with OHS complicating the Prader-Willi syndrome.'
Stimulation of feeding behavior in three species of fiddler crabs by hexose sugars

Feeding responses to five hexoses were examined in three closely related species of fiddler crabs, Uca minax, U.pugnax and U.pugilator. Htxoses tested were glucose, galactose, sorbose, fructose and mannose. Intact crabs and eyestalk-ablated crabs were tested. Responses to sugars were species specific. Eyestalks are directly involved in vision and overall neural integration as well as with chemosensory and metabolic pathways associated with feeding. Overall, eyestalk-ablated crabs were more sensitive uian intact crabs. Studies of responses of individuals within a population to hexoses showed tiiere are individual U.pugnax that respond to galactose and others that do not. Similarly, there were U.pugilator individuals that were mannose responsive and others that did not respond to mannose. An additional study of differences in population responses to hexoses would provide valuable tools in studying geographic relationships between fiddler crab populations.
The Medial Rectus Muscle Insertion Site in Infantile Esotropia

The distance from the corneoscleral limbus to the insertion site of the medial rectus muscle was measured at several stages of medial rectus recession surgery in 20 patients (40 eyes) with infantile esotropia. Disinsertion of the medial rectus muscle resulted in a mean reduction in the distance from the muscle insertion site to the corneoscleral limbus of 0.903 mm (P
Automatic curve-fitting-II. Linear equations☆

Abstract In this second paper of a three-part series, the automatic FORTRAN IV curve-fitting program, CURFIT, that can handle both linear and non-linear equations is described and demonstrated with linear equations. In CURFIT the maximum tolerance (or uncertainty) for each item is an integral part of the data. An automatic pattern recognition component unambiguously identifies “wrong data-points” and determines whether the data are described by a single function or by overlapping functions of the specified type. The “goodness of fit” criteria are the number of equations with overlapping domains; the median values for all the parameters and their associated maximum errors; and the rejected data-points. CURFIT can be used to unambiguously compare different multi-variable equations, models or theories. It can also be used to detect regions where one of several competing processes predominate. Chemical engineering and chemical data are used to demonstrate the potential of CURFIT.
Microstructure and Properties of Ferrites

Microstructure significantly affects the magnetic and electrical properties of ferrites. Domain behavior and its relation to microstructure of magnetic materials are reviewed, and the critical grain size necessary to maintain a single domain in nickel ferrite is calculated. Experimental data are given for BaO. 6Fe2 O3 and NiFe2O4 to show the relations among grain sue, coercive force, permeability, ferromagnetic resonance line width (ΔH), and dielectric losses. Predictions are made for the role of ferrites in the future of ceramic research.
A sweet new multiple electrode for chronic single unit recording in moving animals

Abstract A multiple electrode assembly is described. It is composed of individually-insulated fine wires for isolation of single brain units in freely behaving animals and makes possible continuous recording from the same single unit over long periods of time. Seven or more fine (25 μm dia.) individually teflon coated platinum iridium monofilaments are inserted through the lumen of a 26 gauge stainless steel hypodermic tube, cut to the desired length, and fused into a single rigid shaft by coating in melted dextrose. The electrode is entirely prefabricated and the wires are implanted simultaneously in a selected brain area. The sugar gradually dissolves and units can be recorded within 48 hr.
Analysis of emission data from global commercial aviation: 2004 and 2006

Abstract. The global commercial aircraft fleet in 2006 flew 31.26 million flights, burned 188.20 million metric tons of fuel, and covered 38.68 billion kilometers. This activity emitted substantial amounts of fossil-fuel combustion products within the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere that affect atmospheric composition and climate. The emissions products, such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, sulfur compounds, and particulate matter, are not emitted uniformly over the Earth, so understanding the temporal and spatial distributions is important for modeling aviation's climate impacts. Global commercial aircraft emission data for 2004 and 2006, provided by the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, were computed using the Federal Aviation Administration's Aviation Environmental Design Tool (AEDT). Continuous improvement in methodologies, including changes in AEDT's horizontal track methodologies, and an increase in availability of data make some differences between the 2004 and 2006 inventories incomparable. Furthermore, the 2004 inventory contained a significant over-count due to an imperfect data merge and daylight savings error. As a result, the 2006 emissions inventory is considered more representative of actual flight activity. Here, we analyze both 2004 and 2006 emissions, focusing on the latter, and provide corrected totals for 2004. Analysis of 2006 flight data shows that 92.5% of fuel was burned in the Northern Hemisphere, 69.0% between 30N and 60N latitudes, and 74.6% was burned above 7 km. This activity led to 162.25 Tg of carbon from CO2 emitted globally in 2006, more than half over three regions: the United States (25.5%), Europe (14.6), and East Asia (11.1). Despite receiving less than one percent of global emissions, the Arctic receives a uniformly dispersed concentration of emissions with 95.2% released at altitude where they have longer residence time than surface emissions. Finally, 85.2% of all flights by number in 2006 were short-haul missions, yet those flights were responsible for only 39.7% of total carbon from CO2. The following is a summary of these data which illustrates the global and regional aviation emissions footprints for 2004 and 2006, and provides temporal and spatial distribution statistics.
Identification of resonant modes of a layered elastic cylinder

Since the target is fixed in a practical Doppler component measurement, the acoustic frequency is the only controllable parameter. By detecting the peaks in the scattered acoustic field (or Doppler component of the electromagnetic field) while sweeping the acoustic frequency the resonant frequencies can be elucidated. Then by identifying the corresponding bistatic Doppler pattern at the resonant frequencies the mode order can be determined. These data demonstrate mode sensitivity to various parameters and provide a starting point for an inverse model for this geometry. Further research will use information similar to that contained in the paper along with electromagnetic simulation of the bistatic Doppler component to determine relationships between various parameters of the object structure and material and the scattered field Doppler component. These results will be presented at the conference.
Evolution of Soils on Quaternary Reef Terraces of Barbados, West Indies

Soils on uplifted Quaternary reef terraces of Barbados, ∼125,000 to ∼700,000 yr old, form a climo-chronosequence and show changes in physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties with terrace age. Parent materials are dust derived from the Sahara, volcanic ash from the Lesser Antilles island arc, and detrital carbonate from the underlying reef limestone. Although some terrace soils are probably eroded, soils or their remnants are redder and more clay-rich with increasing terrace age. Profile-average Al2O3 and Fe2O3 content increases with terrace age, which partially reflects the increasing clay content, but dithionite-extractable Fe also increases with terrace age. Profile-average K2O/TiO2, Na2O/TiO2, and P2O5/TiO2 values decrease with terrace age, reflecting the depletion of primary minerals. Average SiO2/Al2O3 values also decrease with terrace age and reflect not only loss of primary minerals but also evolution of secondary clay minerals. Although they are not present in any of the parent materials, the youngest terrace soils are dominated by smectite and interstratified kaolinite-smectite, which gradually alter to relatively pure kaolinite over ∼700,000 yr. Comparisons with other tropical islands, where precipitation is higher and rates of dust fall may be lower, show that Barbados soils are less weathered than soils of comparable age. It is concluded that many soil properties in tropical regions can be potentially useful relative-age indicators in Quaternary stratigraphic studies, even when soils are eroded or changes in soil morphology are not dramatic.