cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Functional networks training algorithm for statistical pattern recognition

Pattern classification is the study of how machines can observe the environment, learn to distinguish patterns of interest from their background, and make reasonable decisions about the categories of the patterns. It is a very important in a variety of engineering and scientific disciplines such as computer vision, artificial intelligence, and medicine. New and emerging applications, such as Web searching, multimedia data retrieval, data mining, and machine learning require robust and efficient pattern classification techniques. Recently, functional network has been proposed as a generalization of the standard neural network. In This work we are interested in dealing with the statistical pattern recognition via functional networks and investigate its performance using some real-world applications. We use functional equations to approximate the neuron functions, which allow a wide class of functions to be presented. The steps of working with functional networks and the structural learning are proposed.
Kinetics of cancer: a method to test hypotheses of genetic causation.

Background: Mouse studies have recently compared the age-onset patterns of cancer between different genotypes. Genes associated with earlier onset are tentatively assigned a causal role in carcinogenesis. These standard analyses ignore the great amount of information about kinetics contained in age-onset curves. We present a method for analyzing kinetics that measures quantitatively the causal role of candidate genes in cancer progression. We use our method to demonstrate a clear association between somatic mutation rates of different DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genotypes and the kinetics of cancer progression. Methods: Most experimental studies report age-onset curves as the fraction diagnosed with tumors at each age for each group. We use such data to estimate smoothed survival curves, then measure incidence rates at each age by the slope of the fitted curve divided by the fraction of mice that remain undiagnosed for tumors at that age. With the estimated incidence curves, we compare between different genotypes the median age of cancer onset and the acceleration of cancer, which is the rate of increase in incidence with age. Results: The direction of change in somatic mutation rate between MMR genotypes predicts the direction of change in the acceleration of cancer onset in all 7 cases (p ˜ 0.008), with the same result for the association between mutation rate and the median age of onset. Conclusion: Many animal experiments compare qualitatively the onset curves for different genotypes. If such experiments were designed to analyze kinetics, the research could move to the next stage in which the mechanistic consequences of particular genetic pathways are related to the dynamics of carcinogenesis. The data we analyzed here were not collected to test mechanistic and quantitative hypotheses about kinetics. Even so, a simple reanalysis revealed significant insights about how DNA repair genotypes affect separately the age of onset and the acceleration of cancer. Our method of comparing genotypes provides good statistical tests even with small samples for each genotype.
Shock Waves and Plasma Ejection: Corpuscular and Interplanetary Evidence

The ejection of rapidly-moving solar material into interplanetary space in association with solar flares has been discussed since 1859, when geomagnetic disturbances and auroral displays followed shortly after the first observation of a flare by Carrington and Hodgson. Until the advent of in situ interplanetary observations in the early 1960’s, such discussions were based upon the indirect information regarding interplanetary space that could be inferred from geomagnetic or cosmic ray data. The past decade of space exploration has provided a great deal of direct information regarding the interplanetary effects of solar flares and some quantitative implications regarding the nature of transient coronal disturbances.
Cochlear implants for the profoundly deaf

A fairly recent development in treatment for the profoundly deaf is the cochlear implant. A cochlear implant is an electronic device that partially restores hearing via electrical stimulation of the inner ear. The only cochlear implant currently approved by the Federal Drug Administration for use in both children and adults is the Nucleus 2 Multiple Channel Cochlear Implant manufactured by Cochlear Corporation of Australia. To date, more than 160 patients (adults and children) have undergone cochlear implantation with the Nucleus device at the University of Michigan. The authors discuss criterion for implant candidacy, provide a brief description of the Nucleus device, discuss results being obtained by patients and provide a brief summary of current research trends and needs. >
Spectroscopic Tags Using Dye-Embedded Nanoparticles and Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering is capable of providing rich vibrational information at the level of single molecules and single nanoparticles, but the practical applications of this enormous enhancement effect are still a challenge. Here we report a new class of dye-embedded core-shell nanoparticles that are highly efficient for surface Raman enhancement and could be used as spectroscopic tags for multiplexed detection and spectroscopy. The core-shell particles contain a metallic core for optical enhancement, a reporter molecule for spectroscopic signature, and an encapsulating silica shell for protection and conjugation. A surprising finding is that organic molecules with an isothiocyanate (-N=C=S) group or multiple sulfur atoms are compatible with silica encapsulation. In comparison with fluorescent dyes and quantum dots, enhanced Raman probes contain a built-in mechanism for signal amplification and provide rich spectroscopic information under ambient experimental conditions.
Antioxidant Properties of Lignin

Since certain dietary antioxidants are generally thought to protect retinol from oxidation during digestion, lignin was tested for its antioxidant properties. Inclusion of 1–10% lignin in the rat diet resulted in an increased (50–100%) deposition of retinol as compared to cellulose-fed controls. Data indicate that lignin exhibits antioxidant properties in the presence of oil and probably in the presence of other fat-soluble substances (e.g. vitamins A and E). Animal experiments substantiate this hypothesis. Results suggest both the biochemical and chemical nature as well as the nutritional ramifications of these observations deserve further investigation.
Evidence for site memory effects in the ionic relaxation of (Li2O)x(Na2O)y(GeO2)1−x−y glasses

Abstract We report measurements of the dielectric response due to ionic relaxation in alkali germanate glasses (Li2O)x(Na2O)y(GeO2)1− x −y. The relaxation is investigated in both electric modulus and ac conductivity formalisms, between which important discrepancies are observed. In single alkali glasses, the width of the electric modulus decreases with decreasing alkali concentration. However, the power law dispersion of the ac conductivity scales regardless of the alkali concentration. This scaling property of the ac conductivity implies that inter-ionic interactions are not responsible for the non-Debye relaxation. In mixed alkali glasses, the exponent of the power law dispersion of the ac conductivity decreases and the dielectric relaxation strength increases relative to the single alkali glasses. With increasing total alkali concentration in the mixed alkali glasses, the frequency of maximum dielectric loss decreases, approaching frequencies comparable to that of the mixed alkali mechanical loss peak. These findings indicate a transition of the ionic relaxation toward a slower polarization process which is consistent with site memory mechanisms recently proposed for the mixed alkali effect.
Quantum limited optical tracking

Most optical tracking algorithms are based upon a set of intensity measurements from an array of discrete dectector elements. However, as technology progresses, the number of possible detector elements per unit will increase so that in the limit it is reasonable to consider a spatially distributed measurement. In such a limit, the appropriate model is the space-time point process. We present the minimum mean square error (MMSE) estimator structure for the general problem of tracking the centroid of a Gaussian shaped intensity profile based upon such a measurement. Both upper and lower bounds on MSE are presented as well as an indication of operating regimes where the bounds are nearly equal. Thus quantum limited minimum signal levels are established for which acceptable performance can be obtained. The estimator structure and performance are compared to those obtained in the discrete array case in order to study the effects of finite detector size. Finally, Monte Carlo simulation results are presented to verify the bounds and to illustrate the sensitivity of the results to the measurement model assumptions.
Late Patency of the Internal Mammary Artery as a Coronary Bypass Conduit

From January, 1972, through August, 1977, 472 patients had internal mammary artery (IMA) coronary bypass, of which 100 were double-IMA bypasses. We selected those patients having a widely patent IMA one year postoperatively who then had a second catheterization 49 to 105 (mean, 64) months following operation. None of the 93 patients who met these criteria was specifically recalled for this study; they all had follow-up catheterizations for multiple other reasons. All of the 91 left IMA and 22 right IMA bypasses (total, 113) were patent at late catheterization, but 1 right IMA was diffusely narrowed. One left IMA had acute angulation with 50% stenosis proximal to the distal anastomosis, which was unchanged over the follow-up interval. There were 100 patent saphenous vein bypasses at one year and 87 at late catheterization. Late closure of coronary bypass grafts is secondary to progression of coronary disease, atherosclerosis of the bypass conduit, or intimal proliferation. Because we have not encountered the latter two causes of conduit closure, IMA grafts remain our graft of choice for nonemergent operations in patients under 60 years of age having revascularization of the left anterior descending coronary artery system.
Air force research laboratory's technology programs addressing deployable space optical systems

The US Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) has integrated several technology development efforts together to form a cohesive approach for enabling deployable optical systems in the future. Aperture size dominates the cost/architecture trades for space based laser systems for missile defense and tactical imaging system pursuing broad area coverage with local access. Larger apertures allow both systems to consider higher orbits, offering greater fields of regard. However, large monolithic apertures quickly run into launch vehicle faring volumetric and throw mass constraints. Several technologies may enable space deployable of optical segments to form a large primary mirror at a reduced mass, circumventing the launch vehicle constraints. However, to produce an optically phased wavefront, a combination of technologies, deployment mechanisms, lightweight structures and mirrors, mirror mount isolators and actuators, adaptive optics, and processing techniques, must be applied in concert. While this paper concentrates on the hardware development activities under the UltraLITE program, namely the Precision Deployable Optical Structure ground demonstration and the brassboard Deployable Space Telescope, it will also briefly cover and provide references to related technology programs on-going at the AFRL.
Influence of Power Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields on Human Healtha

Several reports have appeared in the last ten years in which the authors suggest an association between cancer/leukemia and exposure to electric and magnetic fields in the workplace or in the vicinity of distribution lines from overhead transmission systems. Several of these reports are reviewed and critiqued. The reports of clinical effects of electric and/or magnetic fields among human populations present serious difficulties which stem from the many publications in which pertinent material is not presented, and the data are variable or internally inconsistent. The reports presented so far are not very probing. The numbers of subjects are small, the epidemiologic methodologies are often weak, measurements of intensity of field are absent, and the statistical analyses utilized are not always appropriate. Although suggestive associations of electric/magnetic fields and cancer or leukemia have been made, no one has established a causal relationship between these fields and cancer or leukemia. All the reports on human exposure have numerous deficiencies which include: lack of or imprecise measurements of electric or magnetic field intensities, questionable subject identification, lack of statistical significance, confounding with uncontrolled variables such as socioeconomic differences, smoking, X rays, drugs, population mobility, and the unreliability of occupational classification. Nevertheless the possibility of a link between leukemia and cancer and exposure to electric and magnetic fields has been raised and only responsible research can refute or confirm these reports.
Real-time scanning electron microscopy and auger spectroscopy of wetting in Sn-3.3Ag-4.8Bi solder paste wetted to Ni-Au

Surface and thin film techniques reveal an immediate and intense surface reaction during wetting of Sn-3.3Ag-4.8Bi solder paste to Ni-Au board finishes. Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS) shows that a typical, vendorsupplied Ni-Au board finish consists of ∼750 A of Au above the Ni. Stylus profilometry indicates that the finish surface is rough with average vertical height variations of ∼1–2 µm. The board finish seen by the solder alloy during wetting contains a large ∼45% atom fraction of adventitious surface C observed by Auger spectroscopy (AES). The AES and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) indicates that Ni has fully intermixed throughout the alloy within seconds of wetting. Dissolution of the Au cap layer into the alloy and Bi and Ag surface segregation is observed. Auger point analysis and maps at the leading edge of the wetting front show no evidence of flux advance ahead of the alloy. Bismuth does not move out with the spreading wetting front. A unique feature of this work is the acquisition of real-time, in-situ electron microscopic observations of the spreading Sn-3.3Ag-4.8Bi alloy front across the Ni-Au substrate during wetting. The observations have been recorded on videotape and converted into computer files accessible on the World Wide Web with standard media players (ftp://131.204.44.20).
Fretting fatigue damage accumulation in PH13–8Mo stainless steel

Abstract The accumulation of fretting fatigue damage in PH13–8Mo stainless steel was investigated by interrupting experiments at several proportions of the total fretting fatigue life. The interruption intervals were chosen to correspond to changes in the frictional force range evolution behavior. Fretting scars and orthogonal sections through them were examined to determine the extent of surface damage and subsurface deformation and cracking. Cracks developed due to fretting within the first 200 cycles (0.14% of total life), and significant subsurface deformation was observed after only 3.5% of the total fretting fatigue life. A microstructurally altered region, which showed a marked increase in hardness, extended to a depth of approximately 80 μm below the scar. The final catastrophic crack nucleated near the interface between the harder and softer regions. Nanoindentation and scanning electron microscopy were used to determine the connection between the observed microstructural changes and the regions of varying hardness.
On almost cylindrical languages and the decidability of the D0L and PWD0L primitivity problems

Abstract Primitive words and their properties have always been of fundamental importance in the study of formal language theory. Head and Lando in Periodic D0L Languages proposed the idea of deciding whether or not a given D0L language has the property that every word in it is a primitive word. After reducing the general problem to the case in which h is injective, it will be shown that primitivity is decidable when ((A)h)∗ is an almost cylindrical set. Moreover, in this case, it is shown that the set of words which generate primitive sequences (given a particular D0L scheme) is an algorithmically constructible context-sensitive language. An undecidability result for the PWD0L primitivity problem and decidability results for cases of the RWD0L primitivity problem are also given.
Standard monomial bases and degenerations of SOm(C) representations

We study explicit weight bases for the finite dimensional representations of SO(m). Using a flat degeneration technique, we describe the representation spaces via a lattice cone associated with the Gelfand–Tsetlin patterns for GL(m). Combinatorial descriptions of the weight bases for SO(m) relative to those for GL(m) will be given.
Unrecognized anti-predator behaviour can bias observational data

Beaucoup d'animaux reagissent a la presence d'un observateur humain en utilisant un comportement anti-predateur. Cet article discute des aspects methodologiques qu'implique ce phenomene
Comparing reports of suspected child maltreatment in states with and without Universal Mandated Reporting

Abstract Every state has a statute through which certain individuals are required to report suspicions of child maltreatment to Child Protective Services. Some states require all adults to report suspicions of child maltreatment (Universal Mandated Reporting); other states only require certain professionals to make such reports. In response to high profile child sexual abuse cases, many states have considered moving to Universal Mandated Reporting. This study compares characteristics and outcomes of reports from states with and without Universal Mandated Reporting. Analysis found no differences in the rate of report or report disposition. Reports from educational personnel in states with universal reporting made up a smaller proportion of reports than in states where only a delineated list of professionals are required to report. Additionally, states with Universal Mandated Reporting had more reports involving neglect as compared to other states. These findings are important to inform any movement to expand Universal Mandated Reporting.
Moral and Political Economies in Rural Southeast Asia A Review Article

Over the course of the past few decades, analyses and comparisons of agrarian politics and insurrections have been of central concern within political science, sociology, and related disciplines. Especially in the last ten years, these concerns have been informed and recast in light of theoretical advances and paradigmatic shifts within various academic fields, and as a consequence of tumultuous, realpolitik developments impinging upon or otherwise involving large numbers of peasants. In the case of Southeast Asia, for instance, the most recent decade has witnessed the emergence of substantive challenges to long established models and epistemological assumptions underlying our basic understandings of agrarian rebellion as well as our very discourse on the logic of peasant political strategies and seemingly communalistic traditions. Certain of these challenges range well beyond explicitly political matters and speak to a much broader set of issues. On the one hand, such issues pertain to the characteristic features of peasant economics and exchange, the nature of structural ties linking rural sectors with the world market, and the overall nexus of peasant welfare levels, ideologies, and adaptations in the context of colonial and postcolonial states. On the other hand, and yet clearly related to the foregoing, the questions posed by recent critics of received knowledge bear upon motivation and decision making, particularly in light of cultural perceptions of legitimacy and attitudes toward the taking and sharing of risk. Indeed, what we seem to have is essentially a clarion call for a complete reassessment of peasant responses both to upward shifts in demographic pressure and relative resource scarcity, and more generally, to the large-scale transformation of agrarian relations that is commonly associated with the
Biological evaluation of polymers. I. Poly(methyl methacylate).

A series of poly(methyl methacrylate) formulations differing widely in chemical and physical properties was employed for the evaluation of primary screening methods for the assessment of acute toxicity. Materials and USP extracts of materials were tested in parallel. Tissue culture, hemolysis, intradermal irritation, systemic toxicity, muscle implant and histopathologic responses were determined for each of 27 formulations. A determination of the nonvolatile methanol extractable components was carried out on each formulation. The formulations varied with respect to percent, w/w, methyl methacrylate, N,N-dimethyl-p-toluidine, stannous octoate, 3,4-diamino-toluene and, also, with respect to curing conditions. Volatile components, primarily methyl methacrylate, of three selected formulations were determined quantitatively by vacuum distillation and mass spectrographic analysis. Statistical analysis of the primary data indicated a significant correlation of residue weight (methanol extractable) with hemolytic activity (r = 0.93) and with the cumulative biological response (r = 0.9). Multiple linear regression analysis of residue weights with hemolysis and intradermal irriation responses gave the highest overall correlation (r = 0.96). Hemolytic activity and tissue culture responses were significantly correlated (r = 0.87). It was concluded that the observed variation of biological test results reflected significant differences in the toxicity of the test materials. The poly(methyl methacrylate) series examined was relatively low in toxicity and the biological tests examined, particularly the in vitro tests, were found to be responsive to formulation and curing conditions which indicated their suitability for primary toxicity screening.
Focus on prostate cancer.

The dilemma of prostate cancer presents the clinician and basic researcher with a number of challenges somewhat unique in human oncology. Its frequent occurrence, tendency for a long natural history, common multifocality and morphologic heterogeneity, and progression to hormone refractory state are all poorly understood aspects of this disease. However, the rapid pace of advances, both technologically and mechanistically, provides a platform for the systematic cataloging and characterization of the normal and cancerous prostate cell phenotype and underlying genotype. This in turn should set the stage for highly rational approaches to the development of new preventive, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies, which are urgently needed for this common malignancy.
Mesenteric Reperfusion Syndrome During Recovery from Severe Hypoxia with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Therapy. † 1011

Patients being placed on ECMO have sustained a prolonged period of severe hypoxia. The effect of this pre-ECMO event on mesenteric blood flow has not been studied, thus making the question of enteral feedings while on ECMO controversial. The following study was undertaken to address these concerns. Newborn lambs, 1-7 days of age (n=4) were used for the study. After intubation and ventilation catheters were placed in the left ventricle (microsphere injection), right femoral artery (arterial blood gas sampling & microsphere withdrawal), femoral vein (IV fluid administration), and mesenteric vein (venous blood gas sampling). Blood flow was determined using the radiolabled microsphere (RLM) technique. In 3 animals, Doppler flow of the superior mesenteric artery was measured & resistive indices (RI) were calculated to determine the correlation between RI & RLM blood flow. Mesenteric oxygen delivery, consumption, and extraction were calculated. Studies were obtained at the following intervals: Baseline (1 hr stabilization); 1 hr of hypoxia (SaO2 ≤0.40); 30 & 60 minutes after recovery with ECMO to a normoxic state; 30 & 60 minutes after removal from ECMO to a normoxic ventilation state. Results: A significant negative correlation was noted between RI & RLM blood flow(p JI>LT. Mesenteric oxygen consumption was maintained constant throughout the study period. Of significance, was the marked increase in oxygen delivery after 30 & 60 minutes of ECMO, average 155% and 102% respectively, associated with a marked reduction in oxygen extraction at both 30 & 60 minutes of ECMO, -73% & -55%, respectively. This pattern persisted after removal from ECMO, with O.D., 90% above baseline & extraction, 35% below baseline at 60 minutes post ECMO. These findings indicate that a marked reperfusion phenomenon occurs in the gut during the recovery phase from hypoxia while on ECMO. It could be speculated that enteral feeding on ECMO should be delayed for a period of time. The duration of this reperfusion phenomenon in the gut is yet to be determined.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Distributions across the Thermohaline Front in Kii Channel in Winter

We have studied nitrogen and phosphorus distributions across the thermohaline front in Kii Channel in winter by using engine-cooling sea water of a ferry boat. On Dec. 1986 and Jan. 1987, differences of PO4−P and DIN across the front are recognized. Especially in the latter case, differences of nutrients concentrations across the front are very obvious. But differences of nutrients across the front on Feb. 1986, Feb. and Mar. 1987 are not obvious. Inspite of winter,Akashiwo had happened in Osaka Bay, nutrients mostly have already been utilized by phytoplankton in inner part of Osaka Bay. Consequently, differences of nutrients concentrations across the front are nearly zero.
The effect of pressure on the luminescence of poly[2-methoxy-5-(2'-ethyl hexoxy)- p-phenylene vinylene] [MEH-PPV] in two copolymers of vinylchloride

Abstract The change of emission efficiency with pressure is presented for poly[2-methoxy-5-(2′-ethylhexoxy)– p -phenylene vinylene] (MEH–PPV) in dilute solution in poly(vinyl chloride) (PVCl), poly(vinyl acetate) (PVA) and two copolymers involving VCl. The drop in efficiency below 30 kbar in all media correlates with the increase in time of transport of the electron from the exciting to the emitting state. The increase in luminescent yield above 30 kbar for PVCl and the copolymers correlates with the increase in Forster energy transfer (FET) efficiency. For PVA there is no increase in FET at higher pressure and no increase in luminescent efficiency.
Overwintering of the Inland Silverside in Southern Illinois

Abstract The objectives of this study were to determine if the inland silverside Menidia beryllina could survive over winter in southern Illinois, north of its native range, and if power-plant cooling reservoirs or aquaculture systems could be used to maintain brood stocks of the species during especially cold winters. Inland silversides survived several consecutive winters in unheated Illinois reservoirs, but not a relatively severe winter. They did survive the severe winter in a cooling reservoir. They were successfully maintained over winter in indoor intensive aquaculture systems, at temperatures above 15°C, when they were fed a prepared diet. Thus, cooling reservoirs and indoor aquaculture facilities are potential sources of inland silversides for stocking unheated reservoirs in the spring.
Preoperative Factors Predict Perioperative Morbidity and Mortality After Pancreaticoduodenectomy

Background Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) has long been associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to identify preoperative risk factors for serious complications and mortality after PD and to construct a prediction tool to facilitate risk stratification prior to surgery.
What is the brain

From a structural perspective, there are ten basic parts of the vertebrate CNS that are almost universally agreed upon. These parts have been grouped in at least five different ways corresponding to five different theories about its basic plan or architecture. Two classical models that remain popular today are derived from (1) comparative anatomy and the body's segmental organization, and (2) comparative embryology and the neural tube's transverse and longitudinal organization. A new approach is concerned with deciphering the genetic program that assembles the nervous system during embryogenesis; how it will correspond to the other models remains to be determined. The simplest current model to explain the organization of the mammalian nervous system involves a segmental trunk that mediates reflex sensory-motor functions, and suprasegmental cerebral hemispheres and cerebellum.
Experiments for Nonlinear Functions (R.A. Fisher Memorial Lecture)

Abstract This article reviews work on the planning of experiments with response functions nonlinear in some parameters. Apart from older work on dilution series experiments and quantal bioassays, this field is relatively recent, the mathematical and computing aspects being more complex than for linear responses. An efficient design requires good advance estimates of the parameters. Research has concentrated on (1) optimum estimation of the parameters, under an asymptotic criterion, for both sequential and non-sequential approaches, and (2) tests of the adequacy of the model, discrimination between models and model-building. More work on the small-sample behavior of the designs and on compromise designs that perform well under the typical practical complications would be valuable.
A theory of mechanical behavior of elastic media with growing damage and other changes in structure

Abstract S train energy-like potentials are used to model the mechanical behavior of linear and nonlinear elastic media with changing structure, such as micro- and macrocrack growth in monolithic and composite materials. Theory and experiment show that the applied work for processes in which changes in structure occur is in certain cases independent of some of the deformation history. Consequences of this limited path-independence are investigated, and various relationships for stable mechanical response are derived. For example, it is shown that work is at a minimum during stable changes in structure, which should be useful for developing approximate solutions by variational methods. Some final remarks indicate how the theory may be extended to include thermal, viscoelastic and fatigue effects.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Students' Prior Sexual Abuse Victimization

This paper reports findings of an exploratory study surveying 61 students about their prior child sexual abuse victimization. Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students were surveyed at the beginning and end of a child abuse course and results indicated that 19.7 % of the students reported being sexually abused during childhood. Results also indicated that taking a child abuse course may increase BSW students' self‐awareness regarding prior victimization. The paper discusses how prior child sexual abuse victimization can affect social work students, education, and practice.
Mass flux of ZnSe by physical vapor transport

Abstract Mass fluxes of ZnSe by physical vapor transport (PVT) were measured in the temperature range of 1050 to 1160°C using an in-situ dynamic technique. The starting materials were either baked out or distilled under vacuum to obtain near-congruently subliming compositions. Using an optical absorption technique Zn and Se 2 were found to be the dominant vapor species. Partial pressures of Zn and Se 2 over the starting materials at temperatures between 960 and 1140°C were obtained by measuring the optical densities of the vapor phase at the wavelengths of 2138, 3405, 3508, 3613, and 3792 A. The amount and composition of the residual gas inside the experimental ampoules were measured after the run using a total pressure gauge. For the first time, the experimentally determined partial pressures of Zn and Se 2 and the amount and composition of the residual gas were used in a one-dimensional diffusion limited analysis of the mass transport rates for a PVT system. Reasonable agreement between the experimental and theoretical results was observed.
Acetylcholinesterase and choline acetyltransferase staining of neurons in the opossum esophagus.

The purpose of the present investigation was to identify and compare cholinergic intramural neurons in the lower esophageal sphincter and esophageal body by histochemical staining for acetylcholinesterase and the enzyme that synthesizes acetylcholine, choline acetyltransferase. Opossums were anesthetized and their abdominal cavity was opened by a midline incision to expose the esophagogastric junction. The lower esophageal sphincter was identified manometerically and localized in situ with markers. Tissues were removed, rapidly frozen in freon cooled with liquid nitrogen and serial cryostat sections were obtained from the lower esophageal sphincter and esophageal body. Sections were stained with one of the above histochemical procedures and adjacent sections were stained with Solachrome cyanin , which differentially stains nerve elements from muscle fibers. The muscle of the lower esophageal sphincter and esophageal body was stained with nonspecific cholinesterase with some selectivity of intensity of reaction in the various smooth muscle layers. All identifiable plexus neurons in the esophagus stained for nonspecific cholinesterase and acetylcholinesterase. Nerve fiber tracts were also stained for acetylcholinesterase within the longitudinal and circular layers of the tunica muscularis. Reaction for choline acetyltransferase showed no staining in the muscle layers or nerve fiber tracts of either part of the esophagus studied; however, selected neurons within the myenteric plexus of both regions (approximately 38%) were reactive. There was no significant difference in the number of positive choline acetyltransferase neurons in the lower esophageal sphincter or esophageal body.
Advanced fatigue reliability analysis

Abstract Factors in fatigue life prediction models can be treated as random variables reflecting inherent uncertainties in material behaviour and loading. Given the probability distribution of these factors, U , the distribution of life, N , is derived when a reliability analysis is performed. Numerical reliability analysis methods require a large number of function evaluations of N(U) . But algorithms to estimate N , such as local strain analysis to predict crack initiation or fracture mechanics to predict crack propagation, are complicated and may require significant computer time for only one function evaluation. An advanced mean value (AMV) method has been proposed as an efficient scheme for deriving a probability distribution of an implicit function using a minimum of function evaluations. The AMV method is reviewed in the context of the fatigue problem. Examples of reliability analysis for local strain and fracture mechanics fatigue models illustrate that the AMV method produces accurate probability estimates with a minimum of function evaluations.
A New Procedure for the Behrens–Fisher Problem that Guarantees Confidence Levels

This article considers the Behrens–Fisher problem of comparing two independent normal means without making any assumptions about the two unknown population variances. It is known that the natural statistic for this problem has a distribution that depends upon the ratio of the two variances, and that inferences can be made by using a t-distribution with degrees of freedom equal to the minimum of the degrees of freedom of the two variance estimates. This is the limiting distribution of the statistic as the variance ratio tends to zero or one. In this article a new procedure is developed that simultaneously provides inferences on both the means and the variance ratio. This procedure bounds the variance ratio away from zero and infinity, so it can allow inferences on the means that are sharper than those provided by the limiting distribution. Some numerical illustrations of the advantage provided by this new procedure are presented.
Antithrombotic Effects of Orally Active Synthetic Antagonist of Activated Factor X in Nonhuman Primates

Background Since activated factor X (FXa) has a central role in hemostasis and thrombosis, it is an attractive target for antithrombotic strategies. Accordingly, we evaluated the relative antihemostatic and antithrombotic effects of an orally active amidinoaryl propanoic acid inhibitor of FXa, APAP, in baboons. Methods and Results With a two-component thrombogenic device that induced the concurrent formation of both arterial-type platelet-rich and venous-type fibrin-rich thrombus when interposed in chronic exteriorized arteriovenous (AV) femoral shunts flowing at 40 mL/min, thrombus formation was compared for oral versus parenteral APAP by measurement of 111In-platelet deposition, 125I-fibrin accumulation, thrombotic obstruction of flow, and circulating levels of blood biochemical markers of thrombosis. The direct infusion of APAP (120 μg/min) into AV shunts proximal to thrombogenic devices for 1 hour achieved local drug levels of 4.3±0.4 mg/L and substantially reduced the accumulation of platelets and fibrin in the formation of venous-type fibrin-rich thrombus ( P .1). APAP was subsequently removed from plasma with plasma clearance rates of T50α of 6.3 minutes and T50β of 99 minutes. The oral administration of APAP (50 mg/kg) produced peak plasma levels of 3.7±1.4 μg/mL at 30 minutes and gradually declining plasma levels over about 6 to 8 hours, with bioavailability estimated to be approximately 5% to 12%. Oral APAP decreased platelet deposition ( P .1 in both cases). Oral and infused APAP prolonged the activated partial thromboplastin time and prevented thrombus-dependent elevations in plasma fibrinopeptide A, thrombin–antithrombin III complex, β-thromboglobulin, and platelet factor 4 levels. Additionally, APAP produced dose-dependent inhibition of FXa bound to thrombus on segments of vascular graft interposed in exteriorized AV shunts for 15 minutes. Conclusions An oral synthetic antagonist of FXa, APAP, inhibits the formation of venous-type fibrin-rich thrombus by inactivating bound and soluble FXa without impairing platelet hemostatic function.
A high-performance brain–computer interface

Recent studies have demonstrated that monkeys and humans can use signals from the brain to guide computer cursors. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) may one day assist patients suffering from neurological injury or disease, but relatively low system performance remains a major obstacle. In fact, the speed and accuracy with which keys can be selected using BCIs is still far lower than for systems relying on eye movements. This is true whether BCIs use recordings from populations of individual neurons using invasive electrode techniques or electroencephalogram recordings using less- or non-invasive techniques. Here we present the design and demonstration, using electrode arrays implanted in monkey dorsal premotor cortex, of a manyfold higher performance BCI than previously reported. These results indicate that a fast and accurate key selection system, capable of operating with a range of keyboard sizes, is possible (up to 6.5 bits per second, or approximately 15 words per minute, with 96 electrodes). The highest information throughput is achieved with unprecedentedly brief neural recordings, even as recording quality degrades over time. These performance results and their implications for system design should substantially increase the clinical viability of BCIs in humans.
Pole assignment via optimization methods

The design of multivariable systems can be approached with many different design objectives. An appealing approach from a mathematical point of view is to describe the dynamics of plant and compensator in state-spaco form, transform the resulting augmented system into a problem involving a system performance index such as pole assignment, and apply optimization techniques to choose compensator parameters. This paper develops a methodology whereby exact or partial pole assignment under variations of plant characteristics is incorporated into the system performance index. Through calculations of the gradients of the performance index with respect to compensator parameters, one is able to apply derivative optimization methods to the design problem. Examples are provided to illustrate the design methodology.
Collision-induced dissociation studies of protonated ether--(H2O)n (n = 1-3) clusters

We have studied the protonated ether-(H2O)n (n = 1-3) complexes containing tetrahydrofuran, dimethyl, diethyl, dibutyl, and butylmethyl ethers using a flowing afterglow triple-quadrupole mass spectrometer. Collision-induced dissociation, CID, of all clusters with n = 1, 2 shows sequential water loss. The n = 3 cluster of dimethyl ether shows sequential water loss, while all other ether clusters display selective product formation. The CID spectra are interpreted based on known energetics, and theoretical studies of the dimethyl and diethyl ether systems.
Investigational Immunotherapeutics for B-Cell Malignancies

The use of rituximab-based chemoimmunotherapy regimens has remarkably improved the response rates, long-term outcomes, and quality of life of patients with B-cell malignancies. However, a substantial number of patients exhibit either primary or acquired resistance to rituximab, which suggests that novel immunotherapeutics with distinct mechanisms of action are necessary. A series of monoclonal antibodies with specificity against different surface antigens expressed on malignant B cells (eg, CD22, CD23, CD40, CD70) and novel immunotherapeutics (eg, bispecific monoclonal antibodies, small-modular immunopharmaceuticals, T-cell engagers) are currently in clinical or final preclinical stages of development. Although these agents offer reason for optimism, considerable challenges lie ahead in establishing their real clinical value, as well as in integrating them into current therapeutic algorithms for patients with B-cell malignancies. This review describes some of the most promising investigational immunotherapeutics for the treatment of B-cell malignancies.
Immunotoxin-treated rhesus monkeys: a model for renal allograft chronic rejection.

Background. Unlike acute and hyperacute rejection, chronic rejection (CR) still constitutes a poorly understood process. The onset is insidious, occurs in a period of months to years and, because the pathophysiology is not well understood, is untreatable. A reliable large-animal model for renal allograft CR is needed and has not been reported in the literature yet. Methods. CR biopsy changes were studied in major histocompatibility complex-mismatched renal allografts performed in nine rhesus monkeys that received CD3 T-lymphocyte depletion therapy with immunotoxin on the day of the transplantation (n=7) or 7 days before transplant (n=2). Results. Mean graft survival time was 613.77 days. Biopsy changes of CR were identified as soon as 84 days after transplant (mean, 336 days; range, 84–896 days). Most of the experimental animals had severe interstitial fibrosis, tubular atrophy, chronic transplant glomerulopathy, and chronic vascular rejection changes at the time of necropsy. A significant positive correlation between the severity of CR and the degree of CD68+ macrophage infiltrate of renal parenchyma and the degree of anemia and serum creatinine level elevations were also observed. Conclusions. Our findings are similar to those seen in human renal chronic allograft nephropathy, but in contrast, our model excludes all the nonimmune factors associated with chronic allograft nephropathy, including donor disease, injury from prolonged preservation, drug toxicity, and underlying recipient disease. Immunotoxin-treated rhesus monkeys emerge as an outstanding animal model for assisting us in understanding the pathophysiology of CR.
Spiranes. V. A synthetic route to symmetrical and unsymmetrical 3,9-diazaspiro [5.5]undecanes†

The synthesis of derivatives of the hitherto unreported 3,9-diazaspiro[5,5]undecane has been accomplished. Starting from the dianhydride of methanetetraacetic acid or from N-methyl-4-piperidone, synthetic paths have been developed which permit the preparation of either symmetrical or unsymmetrical derivatives.
A Qualitative Examination of Ethical and Legal Considerations Regarding Dating Violence

Despite the increased attention to dating violence among adolescents and young adults, limited information is available on ethical and legal considerations specific to this population. Therefore, this qualitative study explores 21 trainees’ and practitioners’ conceptualization of ethical and legal issues pertaining to adolescent dating violence. Data are collected through focus groups included as part of an ethics and legal issues seminar. Six themes are identified to illustrate ethical and legal issues concerning dating violence: knowledge, client welfare, counseling interventions, informed consent and disclosure, barriers, and counselor reactions.
An atypical CD8 T‐cell response to Chlamydia muridarum genital tract infections includes T cells that produce interleukin‐13

Chlamydia trachomatis urogenital serovars D-K are intracellular bacterial pathogens that replicate almost exclusively in human reproductive tract epithelium. In the C. muridarum mouse model for human Chlamydia genital tract infections CD4 T helper type 1 cell responses mediate protective immunity while CD8 T-cell responses have been associated with scarring and infertility. Scarring mediated by CD8 T cells requires production of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α); however, TNF-α is associated with protective immunity mediated by CD4 T cells. The latter result suggests that TNF-α in-and-of itself may not be the sole determining factor in immunopathology. CD8 T cells mediating immunopathology presumably do something in addition to producing TNF-α that is detrimental during resolution of genital tract infections. To investigate the mechanism underlying CD8 immunopathology we attempted to isolate Chlamydia-specific CD8 T-cell clones from mice that self-cleared genital tract infections. They could not be derived with antigen-pulsed irradiated naive splenocytes; instead derivation required use of irradiated immune splenocyte antigen-presenting cells. The Chlamydia-specific CD8 T-cell clones had relatively low cell surface CD8 levels and the majority were not restricted by MHC class Ia molecules. They did not express Plac8, and had varying abilities to terminate Chlamydia replication in epithelial cells. Two of the five CD8 clones produced interleukin-13 (IL-13) in addition to IL-2, TNF-α, IL-10 and interferon-γ. IL-13-producing Chlamydia-specific CD8 T cells may contribute to immunopathology during C. muridarum genital tract infections based on known roles of TNF-α and IL-13 in scar formation.