cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fine structure of somatotrophs and mammotrophs in the pituitary pars distalis of the little (lit) mutant mouse.

The cellular pathology and postnatal differentiation of somatotrophs and mammotrophs in the pars distalis oflittle (lit/lit) and normal (+ /+;lit/+) mice were studied by means of electron microscopy. The results indicate that inlittle the pituitary at birth contains recognizable somatotrophs and mammotrophs; however, between 14 and 24 days of age a contrast betweenlittle and normal becomes conspicuous with respect to the somatotrophs.Little somatotrophs are less heavily populated with granules, have granules of smaller size, and show less developed organelles than do normal somatotrophs at comparable stages. Beyond 24 days thelittle somatotrophs become more difficult to locate, and those that do occur show a minimal increase in complexity from that present at 14 days. In contrast, the mammotrophs inlittle are similar in appearance to normal mammotrophs and show increasing complexity as development proceeds, often sending forth cellular processes between neighboring cells, as do normal mammotrophs.
Re-sequencing of a virulent strain of Campylobacter jejuni NCTC11168 reveals potential virulence factors.

In vitro passage of Campylobacter jejuni strains results in phenotypic changes and a general loss of virulence, as is the case with the genome-sequenced strain C. jejuni NCTC11168. Re-sequencing of a virulent strain of NCTC11168 identified 41 SNPs or indels involving 20 genes, four intergenic regions and three pseudogenes. The genes include six motility genes, two chemotaxis genes, three hypothetical genes and a capsule biosynthesis gene, which might have a critical role in C. jejuni virulence. Additionally, we found an insertion in both Cj0676 and Cj1470c, pseudogenes in avirulent NCTC11168, but functional proteins in virulent NCTC11168.
Industrial future of China

China, with her vast unexploited natural resources and immense population still existing in a handicraft economy, offers one of the most fertile fields for industrialization in the world today. In spite of internal political strife which is hampering her development at present, Doctor Koo, Chinese ambassador to the United States and chief Chinese delegate to the United Nations, is confident that his country is well on the road to the economic stability which is necessary to attract foreign capital.
Observation of discrete quadratic surface solitons

We report the first observation of discrete quadratic surface solitons in self-focusing and defocusing periodically poled lithium niobate waveguide arrays. By operating on either side of the phase-matching condition and using the cascading nonlinearity, both in-phase and staggered discrete surface solitons were observed. This represents the first experimental demonstration of staggered/gap surface solitons at the interface of a semi-infinite nonlinear lattice. The experimental results were found to be in good agreement with theory.
N-RAS mutations in T-cell acute lymphocytic leukaemia: analysis by direct sequencing detects a novel mutation.

Summary. A novel mutation of the N-RAS gene of T-ALL blast cells was detected by a direct sequencing of in vitro amplified exon-1 of the N-RAS gene. Threonine (ACA) was substituted for alanine (GCA) at codon 11. This mutation would have been overlooked by conventional probe hybridization techniques. A search for other mutations in N-RAS exon-1 in T-ALL revealed a codon 13 mutation substituting aspartic acid (GAT) for glycine (GGT) in one of 18 patients. No mutations at codon 12 were detected.
Ca2+ signaling, genes and the cell cycle

Changes in the concentration and spatial distribution of Ca2+ ions in the cytoplasm constitute a ubiquitous intracellular signaling module in cellular physiology. With the advent of Ca2+ dyes that allow direct visualization of Ca2+ transients, combined with powerful experimental tools such as electrophysiological recordings, intracellular Ca2+ transients have been implicated in practically every aspect of cellular physiology, including cellular proliferation. Ca2+ signals are associated with different phases of the cell cycle and interfering with Ca2+ signaling or downstream pathways often disrupts progression of the cell cycle. Although there exists a dependence between Ca2+ signals and the cell cycle the mechanisms involved are not well defined and given the cross-talk between Ca2+ and other signaling modules, it is difficult to assess the exact role of Ca2+ signals in cell cycle progression. Two exceptions however, include fertilization and T-cell activation, where well-defined roles for Ca2+ signals in mediating progression through specific stages of the cell cycle have been clearly established. In the case of T-cell activation Ca2+ regulates entry into the cell cycle through the induction of gene transcription.
Technical validation of high-fidelity seismic signature simulations in support of FCS network ground sensors

We use detailed dynamic mechanical systems models to generate ground vibrations specific to a vehicle's suspension and dimensions. These complex force distributions provide input to seismic propagation models running on massively parallel HPC computers, and result in vehicle-specific signatures. The model output is the ground response of the target traversing a complex 3D geologic region. In order to achieve scales that are useful to sensor system development, single calculation run times can exceed 70k CPU-h. Situational awareness is critical to achieving and maintaining battlefield superiority. Given the complex and dynamic environmental conditions of the battlefield, a spectrum of sensor assets are required to provide necessary information with appropriate levels of reliability. Unattended ground sensors (UGS) exploit seismic waves generated from moving targets and provide critical nonline of sight tracking and classification information. In order to develop robust ground sensor systems, systems must be developed that can adapt to the complex geologic environment. We use HPC computational resources to accurately model target specific ground motion in realistically complex geological environments. In turn, we use our simulation results to rapidly develop systems algorithms for keystone FCS subsystems including Intelligent Munition System (IMS), Tactical Unattended Ground Sensors (T-UGS), and Network Sensors for the Objective Force ATD (NSfOF). An excellent match of signals is achieved in both the time and frequency domain for our simulations of several vehicles. The data fidelity achieved replicates target specific signature features observed in field data. The level of detail in our synthetic results is sufficient to permit direct application of synthetic data to system algorithm development and engineering trade studies. Further, these data products may be used as a planning tool for optimal location of seismic UGS to maximize sensor performance (e.g., hill vs. Valley). Lastly, reliance on HPC simulations of this nature provides a low cost alternative to the traditional prototype development schemes that rely exclusively on expensive field tests.
The effect of piperonyl butoxide on hepatic cytochrome P-450-dependent monooxygenase activities in rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri).

Abstract Although piperonyl butoxide (PBO) is commonly used both in vivo and in vitro as an inhibitor of cytochrome P -450-dependent monooxygenase (MO) activity in a wide variety of species, the effect of PBO on the hepatic MO of fishes has never been characterized. The MO activity in hepatic microsomes from rainbow trout exposed to either 1 or 2 ppm PBO for 24 hr in a static system was induced to a similar level in both treatment groups. Conversely, when PBO was administered in a flow-through system to trout, the hepatic microsomes of treated animals contained MO activities that were induced in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, total cytochrome P -450 was significantly increased in the livers of trout treated in a flow-through system with 1 ppm or more of PBO. The in vitro inhibition kinetics of PBO toward the 7-ethoxycoumarin- O -deethylase (ECOD) and 7-ethoxyresorufin- O -deethylase (EROD) activities of hepatic microsomes from trout treated with β-naphthoflavone (BNF) (100 mg/kg, ip) or PBO (4 ppm by flow-through) and untreated trout were compared with Dixon plots. With respect to ECOD activity, the slopes of Dixon plots from control, BNF- and PBO-treated animals were similar. However, the slopes of Dixon plots of EROD inhibition by PBO in microsomes from BNF- and PBO-treated trout were significantly different from each other. Treatment of trout with PBO in a flow-through system resulted in an increase in ECOD and EROD activity in hepatic microsomes while simultaneously decreasing their activity toward [ 14 C]rotenone oxidation. These data suggest that the cytochrome P -450 isozyme composition in hepatic microsomes from PBO-treated rainbow trout may be qualitatively different from that of BNF-treated trout. Also, the activity of hepatic microsomes from PBO-treated trout toward a specific substrate may be either inhibited or induced.
A game-theoretic investigation of selection methods used in evolutionary algorithms

The replicator equation used in evolutionary game theory (EGT) assumes that strategies reproduce in direct proportion to their payoffs; this is akin to the use of fitness-proportionate selection in an evolutionary algorithm (EA). In this paper, we investigate how various other selection methods commonly used in EAs can affect the discrete-time dynamics of EGT. In particular, we show that the existence of evolutionary stable strategies (ESS) is sensitive to the selection method used. Rather than maintain the dynamics and equilibria of EGT, the selection methods we test either impose a fixed-point dynamic virtually unrelated to the payoffs of the game matrix, or they give limit cycles or induce chaos. These results are significant to the field of evolutionary computation because EGT can be understood as a coevolutionary algorithm operating under ideal conditions: an infinite population, noiseless payoffs and complete knowledge of the phenotype space. Thus, certain selection methods, which may operate effectively in simple evolution, are pathological in an ideal-world coevolutionary algorithm, and therefore dubious under real-world conditions.
Design, fabrication and implementation of smart three axis compliant interconnects for ultra-thin chip stacking technology

This paper reports the current status of a novel MEMS based ultra-high density compliant interconnect technology that was proposed in the last Electronic Components and Technology Conference (ECTC). This MEMS-based interconnect, which we call smart three axis compliant (STAC) interconnects are directly fabricated onto electrical contact pads or thru-silicon vias on die at the wafer-level. These interconnects are initially bound to the die by a chemically soluble release layer. The "free" end of the interconnect is bonded to a contact pad on a package substrate or other die at the wafer level or die level, and the release layer is dissolved to free the interconnect from the substrate, thereby permitting it to accommodate relative displacements. The paper will clearly show successfully fabricated STAC interconnects at 50micron pitch on a silicon die bonded onto an ultra-thin glass die.
Two bases are deleted from the termini of HIV-1 linear DNA during integrative recombination.

Abstract Proviral integration is a required step in the retrovirus life cycle. The mechanism of integration involves specific modification of the ends of linear viral DNA and subsequent recombination with host sequences. Integration results in the limited loss of sequence information at the termini of the viral genome. The composition of the intact linear DNA termini were inferred by sequencing the 2-long terminal repeat (2-LTR) circle junction that is formed when the linear molecule undergoes intramolecular, blunt-end ligation. The junction sequence contained the nucleotides GTAC that were not present at the ends of the integrated provirus. Comparison with the sequence of the LAV-1 strain of HIV-1 demonstrated that the GT dinucleotide derived from the right-hand terminus (U5) of the linear viral DNA and the AC dinucleotide came from the left-hand terminus (U3). Therefore, the corrected size of the LAV-1 LTR is 637 bp. This conclusion was confirmed independently by assessing the structure of linear viral DNA in acutely infected T cells. A portion of the population of linear HIV-1 DNA molecules were specifically deleted at their 3′ ends; the extent of this deletion was 2 bases. This result is consistent with the activity of viral intergrase protein on linear viral DNA and it accounts for the structure of integrated HIV-1 proviruses.
Nitrofurantoin quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection: effect of metronidazole resistance

Background: Antibiotic resistance has increasingly been recognized as the major cause of treatment failure for Helicobacter pylori infection. New therapies for patients with metronidazole- or clarithromycin-resistant H. pylori are needed. Aim: To investigate the role of nitrofurantoin quadruple therapy for the treatment of H. pylori. Methods: Patients with confirmed H. pylori infection received nitrofurantoin (100 mg t.d.s.), omeprazole (20 mg b.d.), Pepto-Bismol (two tablets t.d.s.), and tetracycline (500 mg t.d.s.) for 14 days. Four or more weeks after the end of therapy, outcome was assessed by repeat endoscopy with histology and culture or urea breath testing. Results: Thirty patients were entered, including 25 men and five women; the mean age was 54.9 years. The most common diagnoses were duodenal ulcer (23%) and GERD (18%). The intention-to-treat cure rate was 70% (95% CI: 50.6–85%). Nitrofurantoin quadruple therapy was more effective with metronidazole-sensitive strains (88%; 15 out of 17) than with metronidazole-resistant strains (33%; three out of nine; P=0.008). Two of the treatment failures had pre-treatment isolates susceptible to metronidazole, which were resistant after therapy. Conclusions: Because nitrofurantoin quadruple therapy performed inadequately in the presence of metronidazole resistance, we conclude that nitrofurantoin is unlikely to find clinical utility for the eradication of H. pylori.
Genetics of childhood disorders: L. Learning and memory, part 3: fear conditioning.

Fig. 1 (A) Pavlovian fear conditioning and measurement of fear-potentiated startle. Top: during training, the CS (light) is paired with the US (foot-shock). During testing, the acoustic startle reflex is elicited in the absence (middle) or presence (lower) of the CS. Fear-potentiated startle is defined by higher acoustic startle amplitude in the presence of the fear-conditioned CS. (B) Schematic diagram illustrating the convergent inputs of US (pain) pathways and CS (multimodal sensory) pathways into the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala (BLA). Neurons in the basolateral nucleus project to the central nucleus (CeA). Neurons in the central nucleus project divergently to numerous brain regions which together mediate the fear response. CS = conditioned stimulus; US = unconditioned stimulus; VTA = ventral tegmental area; LC = locus ceruleus. (C) Schematic diagram illustrating some of the molecules implicated in the formation of fear memory. In brief, N-methylD-aspartate (NMDA) and other receptor activation leads to downstream intracellular events, eventually culminating in the transcription of numerous new genes involved in long-term memory consolidation. NMDAR = the N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor; AMPAR = the glutamate receptor which mediates cell depolarization; VGCC = voltage-gated calcium channel; TrkB = the tyrosine kinase receptor for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF); CaMKII = calcium calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II; MAPK = mitogen activated protein kinase; AKAP = A-kinase anchoring protein; PKA = cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase; PKC = protein kinase C; PI-3K = phosphatidylinositol-dependent kinase; CREB = cyclic AMP response element binding protein.
Creep and Fatigue Behavior of SnAg Solders With Lanthanum Doping

In this paper, extensive testing was conducted to study the effects of Lanthanum (La) doping on the creep and fatigue behavior of SnAg lead free solder alloys. Variables considered in this paper include doping amount, aging temperature, and aging time. The experimental data show that rare earth element (RE) doping increases SnAg solders creep resistance by about 15%. Meanwhile, RE doping does not affect thermal aging behavior of the solder alloy. A microstructure dependent Anand viscoplastic model is proposed to capture the RE doping effect on the creep behavior. Good agreement between the model predictions and experimental data are obtained. In addition, fatigue tests were performed with bulk specimen. It is found that La doping increases the fatigue life by about five times. The optimal doping level for better fatigue performance is around 0.1%.
Comparison of automated vs. manual determination of the respiratory variations in the EKG R wave amplitude for the prediction of fluid responsiveness during surgery

Electrocardiogram (EKG) monitoring is a common standard of care across all operating rooms and intensive care units. Studies have suggested that respiratory variations in the EKG R wave amplitude (EKGv) can be used as an indicator of fluid responsiveness in mechanically ventilated patients under general anesthesia, but to date all calculations of variation have been done by hand. The aim of this study was to assess if a computer-automated algorithm could compute and monitor EKGv with the same precision as manual measurement. Batches of 30 s each of EKG lead II waveforms were recorded during surgical procedures with mechanical ventilation. R wave amplitude variability was assessed both manually and by automated algorithm. For both calculations, wave height was defined as R wave peak minus preceding Q wave trough, and the minimum and maximum amplitudes determined for each respiratory cycle. EKGv was calculated as 100 × [(RDIImax − RDIImin)/(RDIImax + RDIImin)/2]. Fifty-seven batches of waveforms were calculated. We found that our computer-automated algorithm calculation of EKGv was significantly correlated to manual measurements (r = 0.968, P < 0.001). Bland-Altman analysis also showed a strong agreement between automated and manual EKGv measurements (bias 0.13% ± 3.06%). The observed correlations between the manually and automatically calculated EKGv suggest that our current computer-automated algorithm is a reliable method for calculating EKGv. Validation in prospective volume expansion studies will be needed to assess the true clinical utility of this automated measurement.
Convergence of Large Margin Separable Linear Classification

Large margin linear classification methods have been successfully applied to many applications. For a linearly separable problem, it is known that under appropriate assumptions, the expected misclassification error of the computed "optimal hyperplane" approaches zero at a rate proportional to the inverse training sample size. This rate is usually characterized by the margin and the maximum norm of the input data. In this paper, we argue that another quantity, namely the robustness of the input data distribution, also plays an important role in characterizing the convergence behavior of expected misclassification error. Based on this concept of robustness, we show that for a large margin separable linear classification problem, the expected misclassification error may converge exponentially in the number of training sample size.
Design of a single-input system for specified roots using output feedback

A method is given for choosing feedbacks from an output vector of smaller dimension than the state vector in such a way that a subset of the roots assume desired values. A sufficient condition for arbitrary placement of as many roots as there are feedbacks is proved. It is also proved that a root corresponding to a mode which is either uncontrollable or unobservable cannot be altered. It may be desired to place more roots than there are feedbacks, and it is shown that the method can be extended to give an approximate solution of this problem.
Cell density ratios in a foveal patch in macaque retina.

We examine the assumptions that the fovea contains equal numbers of inner (invaginating or ON) and outer (flat or OFF) midget bipolar cells and equal numbers of inner and outer diffuse bipolar cells. Based on reconstruction from electron photomicrographs of serial thin sections through the fovea of a macaque monkey, we reject both assumptions. First, every foveal L and M cone is presynaptic to one inner and one outer midget bipolar cell; however, S cones are presynaptic to one outer but no inner midget bipolar cell. Second, we measure the density of all foveal cells in the same patch of fovea, affording accurate cell density ratios. For each foveal cone pedicle, at a density of 26,500 mm 22 , there is close to one (0.88) outer diffuse bipolar cell but only 0.40 inner diffuse bipolar cells. This asymmetry may be related to differences in resolution and sensitivity for light increments and decrements. We also find one (1.01) Muller cell, one (1.01) amacrine cell in the inner nuclear layer, and close to one (0.83) horizontal cell for each cone pedicle. In addition, for each S cone, there are two inner S-cone bipolar cells and two small bistratified ganglion cells. In total, there are 3.4 cone bipolar cells per cone but only 2.6 ganglion cells per cone. The latter ratio is enough to accommodate one midget ganglion cell for each midget bipolar cell.
A methodology for evaluating robustness of face recognition algorithms with respect to variations in pose angle and illumination angle

In this paper, we present a methodology for precisely comparing the robustness of face recognition algorithms with respect to changes in pose angle and illumination angle. For this study, we have chosen four widely-used algorithms: two subspace analysis methods (principle component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA)) and two probabilistic learning methods (hidden Markov models (HMM) and Bayesian intra-personal classifier (BIC)). We compare the recognition robustness of these algorithms using a novel database (FacePix) that captures face images with a wide range of pose angles and illumination angles. We propose a method for deriving a robustness measure for each of these algorithms, with respect to pose and illumination angle changes. The results of this comparison indicate that the subspace methods perform more robustly than the probabilistic learning methods in the presence of pose and illumination angle changes.
A PERSISTENT DIURNAL RHYTHM IN CHAOBORUS LARVAE. II. ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE1

When Chaoborus larvae (Diptera:Culicidae) were kept under constant light conditions within sediment cores their distribution exhibited a 24-hr periodicity. There was a gradual upward movement of larvae in the sediments; the greatest percentage (x = 90%) was consistently found in the 0–1-cm stratum at solar sunset. The data indicate the larvae “test” the light conditions at the mud-water interface at solar sunset. When the light intensity was below some critical threshold value, the larvae emerged and became planktonic. When the light intensity was above this value, the larvae reentered the sediments. The depth to which they burrowed was a function of the light intensity to which they were exposed. A method of resetting the endogenous rhythm in nature is proposed.
Modeling Baseline Shifts in Multivariate Disease Outbreak Detection

Current outbreak detection algorithms monitoring single data stream may be prone to false alarms due to baseline shifts that could be caused by large local events such as festivals or super bowl games. In this paper, we propose a Multinomial-Generalized-Dirichlet (MGD) model to improve a previously developed spatial clustering algorithm, MRSC, by modeling baseline shifts. Our study results show that MGD had better ROC and AMOC curves when baseline shifts were introduced. We conclude that MGD can be added to outbreak detection systems to reduce false alarms due to baseline shifts.
Mechanical aortic valve without anticoagulation for twenty-three years

Current guidelines necessitate varying degrees of long-term anticoagulation in patients with mechanical heart valve(s) to prevent thrombotic and embolic complications. We describe a patient with a functioning aortic mechanical valve without anticoagulation for 23 years. A 68-year-old man had an aortic valve (St Jude Medical) replacement in 1984. His native valve was incompetent from infective endocarditis. He discontinued Coumadin three months after the surgery. He presented 23 years later with palpitations for one month. Further work-up revealed a NYHA class I function, normal sinus rhythm, normal sized heart on chest X-ray, normal systolic and diastolic function on echocardiography. Mean transaortic gradient was 19 mmHg and calculated valve area was 1.48 cm(2). Fluoroscopy showed normal excursions of the mechanical aortic valve. Exercise stress test did not show any limitation in effort tolerance or perfusion defects. He was discharged on daily aspirin and clopidogrel.
Asymptotically optimal power allocation with MMSE receivers

The optimal power allocation scheme is investigated with random spreading sequences and linear MMSE receivers in the regime of large system. The main result is the identification of a power allocation and admission control scheme that maximizes the sum capacity
James Angus Doull and the well-controlled common cold.

In 1931, James Angus Doull (1889–1963) and his colleagues at the Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health reported a study evaluating ‘the prophylactic value of ultra-violet light in acute upper respiratory disease’. Three hundred and seventy three medical and public health students were divided ‘at random’ into three unequal-sized groups. The first group was to receive one ultraviolet treatment per week; the second group received two treatments; and the remaining group served as controls.1
Rotorcraft as Mars Scouts

A new approach for the robotic exploration of Mars is detailed: the use of small, ultralightweight, autonomous rotary-wing aerial platforms. Missions based on robotic rotorcraft could make excellent candidates for the NASA Mars Scout program. The paper details the work to date and future planning required for the development of such 'Mars rotorcraft'.
Governing Social Marginality Welfare, Incarceration, and the Transformation of State Policy

Rapid growth of the US penal population over the last two decades has coincided with a decline in the number of welfare recipients. While shifts in crime rates, economic and political consideration...
The Effects of Increasing Sodium Chloride Concentration on Mycoplasma gallisepticum Vaccine Survival in Solution

Abstract Lyophilized Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) vaccines are generally rehydrated and diluted with distilled or chlorine-free water as per manufacturer recommendations. However, as mycoplasma species lack a cell wall, this can lead to decreased viability of live vaccine during administration. The ability of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) to prevent losses in live vaccine viability was examined. It was shown that a concentration of 1× PBS prevented the two–fourfold decrease in MG viability seen when the vaccines were diluted with water alone.
Use of an alarm pheromone against ants for gaining access to aphid/scale prey by the red velvet mite Balaustium sp. (Erythraeidae) in a honeydew-rich environment

SUMMARY This study shows that honeydew prompts arrestment and reduced activity, but not attraction, by the mite Balaustium sp. nr. putmani . When presented with short-range, two-choice bioassays, mites ceased their characteristic rapid crawling activity when they encountered honeydew-treated surfaces, resulting in them clustering around the honeydew. Approximately 80% of mites were retained by honeydew, with responses being independent of both mite life-history stage and source of honeydew (coccid scale insect or aphid). No obvious crawling movements or redirection of running path were made to the honeydew by the mites, implying the lack of any kind of attractant. Response of mites to single-sugar presentations of the main honeydew components – glucose, sucrose, fructose and trehalose – (0.001–0.1 mmol l –1 ) were inconsistent and failed to reproduce the arrestment/clustering associated with raw honeydew, suggesting that none of these sugars is an active arrestant ingredient. Formation of feeding clusters on honeydew does not contribute to enhancing water conservation by suppressing net transpiration (water loss) rates of individual mites as group size increases, indicating that the clustering is an artifact of arrestment. We hypothesize that release of neryl formate by the mites reduces negative interactions with the local ant species commonly associated with honeydew. We hypothesize that honeydew serves as: (1) a cue that facilitates discovery of scale/aphid prey; (2) a retainer on plants where these prey are present, signaling abundance and quality; and (3) an alternative and supplemental food source like that noted for other plant-inhabiting predatory mites. Neryl formate serves as an alarm pheromone and foul-tasting allomonal defense secretion that prevents predation of mites by ants that co-exist with aphid/scale insects in these honeydew-rich habitats.
Increased thin film wiring density by stacked vias

Via stacking has been used successfully over the years during the fabrication of semiconductor personalization layers. This structure requires Chem-mech planarization to fabricate via studs and discrete wiring. In contrast, non planar structures result when sequential layers of metal and dielectric are deposited without the planarization step. During the fabrication of MCM-D, polyimide dielectric films are patterned to create a via opening, allowing for level-to-level connection. Traditionally, these vias are not stacked. In multilevel thin films, the more common via structures are either staircase or spiral. Even when the vias are co-centered, as is the case for power vias of some MCM-D products, the via diameter is increased from one level to the next level producing a reverse pyramid structure. IBM has developed stacked vias technology which simplifies and adds flexibility to the thin film design. This paper will discuss the processing aspects of stacked vias on a non-planar structure, and will present a mechanical finite element model for various via diameters (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 um) on a four metal level structure. It will also contrast the effect on topography and planarity of stacked and non-stacked via structures.
THE MECHANISM OF MICROTUBULE‐DEPENDENT MOVEMENT OF PIGMENT GRANULES IN TELEOST CHROMATOPHORES

The relationship of cytoplasmic microtubules to intracellular transport has been investigated in teleost chromatophores. Antimitotic agents, including colchicine, vinblastine, hydrostatic pressure, and low temperature remove microtubules in these cells and simultaneously disrupt the alignment and arrest the movement of pigment granules. During recovery, the return of alignment and movement corresponds in both time and space with the repolymerization of microtubules. These results demonstrate that microtubules are essential for the intracellular transport of pigment. Investigations of the mechanism of movement show that microtubules do not change in number or location during the redistribution of pigment in Fundulus melanophores. Microtubules in melanophores also behave as semi-stable organelles as determined by investigation with colchicine and hydrostatic pressure. These observations and others rule out a push-pull mechanism based on the polymerization and depolymerization of microtubules or one that distinguishes two operationally different sets of microtubules. It is proposed instead that particles move by sliding along a fixed array of microtubules.
Application of Isochronous Healing Curves in Predicting Damage Evolution in a Salt Structure

A treatment of damage healing is present for rock salt, formulated within the framework of continuum damage mechanics. The concept of an isochronous healing surface, which is a locus of points in a stress space for which the times of healing are identical, is proposed and derived from the healing formulation in order to establish the initial stresses for the onset of healing and the evolution of healing with time and stress. The characteristics of the isochronous healing curves are identified and compared against those of isochronous failure curves and the dilatancy boundary. Isochronous healing curves for clean and argillaceous (containing clay particles) salt are developed and evaluated against laboratory data. Subsequently, the isochronous healing curves are used to predict the healing response of damage in the disturbed rock zone of an air intake shaft in a salt structure.
Pathogenic Fungi in Garlic Seed Cloves from the United States and China, and Efficacy of Fungicides Against Pathogens in Garlic Germplasm in Washington State

Commercially distributed garlic (Allium sativum) seed cloves from six states of the United States and mainland China were surveyed for the presence of fungi recorded as pathogenic to garlic in the literature. Aspergillus niger, A. ochraceus, Botrytis porri, Embellisia allii, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cepae, F. proliferatum and Penicillium hirsutum, were each recovered from one or more of these commercial sources, as was F. verticillioides, not previously reported as pathogenic to garlic, but here demonstrated to be a pathogen. Seed garlic distributed from public germplasm collections may also contain fungal pathogens: E. allii, F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae and/or F. proliferatum caused severe losses in 2002-2003 and 2005-2006 during germplasm regeneration and storage for the National Plant Germplasm System in Pullman, Washington. Use of fludioxonil, thiophanate methyl and/or benomyl (the latter withdrawn from the market, but used here as a standard) at label rates against E. allii and Fusarium species promoted plant health, but not when infections were located deep within tissues nor under some situations involving high disease pressure.
The Use of Blade Implants in a Selected Population of Partially Edentulous Adults

In order to provide longitudinal data for endosteal bladevent implants, a continuing study is being conducted from an original group of 49 implants in 32 patients placed 15 years ago. The present work evaluated 26 of these bladevent implants in 18 patients. Three basic patterns were observed 15 years postoperatively: ( 1 ) In 13 of 26 implants, there was clinical and radiographic evidence of health; (2) in 13 of 26 implants, there was a radiolucency 2- to 3-mm square around the neck and shoulder of the implants, along with sulcular depths capable of being probed and evidence of bleeding on probing; and (3) two implants showed evidence of settling deeper into the bone. These results indicate that bladevent endosteal implants can be maintained in the mouth for up to 15 years, and 50% can be free from periodontal disease.
Sonography Should Be the First Imaging Examination Done to Evaluate Patients With Suspected Endometriosis

ndometriosis is defined as the presence of normal endometrial tissue occurring outside the endometrial cavity. This ectopic endometrial tissue responds to normal cyclic hormonal changes, resulting in localized bleeding, inflammation, and subsequent adhesion formation. As a result, endometriosis is a well-known cause of chronic pelvic pain in premenopausal women. The most common site and most recognized sonographic appearance of endometriosis is the ovarian cyst known as an endometrioma or chocolate cyst. Sonographically, an endometrioma is an ovarian cyst that has homogeneous low-level echoes with some areas of increased echogenicity (clot) but with no evidence of blood flow inside. 1 Many years ago, the sonographic diagnosis of endometriosis was reserved for patients with obvious endometriomas, thus missing the cause of pelvic pain in a large number of patients. We now know that endometriosis is also commonly found in other dependent areas of the pelvis, including the anterior and posterior cul-de-sac, the uterosacral ligaments, the bladder and bowel wall (rectosigmoid particularly), and the rectovaginal septum.
The relative stabilities of Cr 23 C 6 / Cr 7 C 3 / and Cr 3 C 2 and the phase relationships in ternary Cr-Mo-C system

The thermodynamic properties of CrC6/23, CrC3/7, CrC2/3, and MoC1/2 reported in the literature have been correlated with the relative stabilities of these carbide phases derived from ternary phase diagrams. On the basis of the free energy of formation for one of the carbides and the free energy changes for the various equilibria occurring in ternary Mo-Cr-C system at 1300°C, free energies of formation for the stable and unstable carbide phases have been obtained. Using this free energy data, a calculated ternary Mo-Cr-C phase diagram is presented which agrees well with the experimentally determined one.
Teaching Theory Versus Practical Use: The Case of the Modern Portfolio Theory

In this teaching note, I demonstrate how literal application of the Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT) could lead to inconsistent performance by using data from the U.S. stock markets. The demonstration shows that it is impossible to construct a forecast of an efficient frontier by static analysis of the MPT. While the minimum variance portfolio does produce better risk adjusted return for the investor during the 1996 to 2005 period, the result from 1987 to 1997 period show otherwise. Therefore, using any of the tools derived from MPT without taking into account the time-varying nature would produce inferior results for individual investors.
G440(P) Dravet syndrome – Don’t be decieved by other pre-existing condition.

Introduction Dravet syndrome (DS), or severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy (SMEI), is a drug resistant epileptic encephalopathy with onset in the first year of life. It is characterised by prolonged tonic-clonic seizures typically provoked by fever and infections, and cognitive decline. Diagnosis may be relatively delayed in presence of another pre-existing condition that predisposes to subsequent development of epilepsy. Case discussion We describe a 2 year old boy, born at term with significant perinatal asphyxia leading to grade 3 hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy, with seizures terminating by Day 5. Despite a stormy neonatal start, he was developing appropriately until seizures recurred at 5 months of age. Initially, seizures consisted of multiple brief afebrile multi focal seizures during periods of intercurrent illness. This was initially attributed to severe hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy at birth predisposing to subsequent development of epilepsy. However, over the next few months this evolved into a drug resistant epileptic encephalopathy characterised by frequent episodes of afebrile and febrile status epilepticus, hemi-convulsions and myoclonic jerks. From 13 months, his nueodevelopment and head growth started to falter. Cognitive regression became quite apparent in the second year of life. MRI brain on Day 6 showed ischaemic injury to white matter in watershed areas with increased signal over lentiform nucleus. MRI at 11 months showed non-specific white matter changes without evidence of any cortical damage or other structural abnormality to account for refractory epilepsy. Repeated early interictal EEGs were normal. In view of polymorphic multidrug resistant refractory seizures and a relatively normal MRI brain and EEG, an alternative aetiology for his epilepsy was considered. Genetic testing at 15 months showed pathogenic mutation of SCN1A gene. Anti-epileptic drug therapy was optimised for Dravet syndrome. A combination Stiripentol, Valproate and Clobazam has dramatically reduced the seizure burden, although cognitive progress has remained slow. Correct diagnosis has been vital in counselling carers regarding not only prognosis, but also avoidance of triggers. Conclusion This case report emphasises the need to constantly review the aetiology in refractory epilepsy even with an apparent underlying cause, especially if there are unexplained atypical features.
PURIFICATION OF OVINE LUTEINIZING HORMONE-RELEASING FACTOR BY GEL FILTRATION AND ION EXCHANGE CHROMATOGRAPHY.

SummaryAcetone powders prepared from sheep SME fragments were extracted with acetic acid and subjected to gel filtration on Sephadex G-25. An LH-releasing zone was eluted from the column just before the appearance of the pressor zone. The LH-releasing zones from 3 such columns were pooled, applied to a CMC column, and eluted by application of gradients of ammonium acetate of increasing ionic strength and pH. A pressor free LH-releasing zone was eluted from the CMC just prior to emergence of vasopressin. This highly purified LH-RF was active at a dose of 3 μg of peptide. Preliminary desalting was required in order for the LH-RF to be retained on the CMC column. Various steps and stages of desalting have been discussed.
The relationship between the serum D-dimer and the course of the disease in children with allergic purpura

Objective To discuss the relationship between serum D-dimer and the course of the disease in children with allergic purpura. Methods Detection and comparison of serum D-dimer at the diagnosis and two weeks after the onset in 47 untreated children with allergic purpura simplex and in 39 complex casesinitial stage. Results There was significant difference of serum D-dimer at diagnosis between simplex and hybrid children with allergic purpura,while there was no significant difference of serum Ddimer two weeks later between the two groups. The number of cases with higher D-dimer at the initial stage and two weeks later of the onset were significantly different compared with the number of cases in three months after the onset,respectively. Conclusions The increased serum D-dimer at the initial stage of allergic purpura doesn't predict prolonged course. However the increased serum D-dimer at two weeks after the onset may indicate prolonged course.
Unfit for Democracy: The Roberts Court and the Breakdown of American Politics

Asked if the country was governed by a republic or a monarchy, Benjamin Franklin replied, "A republic, if you can keep it." Since its founding, Americans have worked hard to nurture and protect their hard-won democracy. And yet few consider the role of constitutional law in America's survival. In Unfit for Democracy, Stephen Gottlieb argues that constitutional law without a focus on the future of democratic government is incoherent-illogical and contradictory. Approaching the decisions of the Roberts Court from political science, historical, comparative, and legal perspectives, Gottlieb highlights the dangers the court presents by neglecting to interpret the law with an eye towards preserving democracy. A senior scholar of constitutional law, Gottlieb brings a pioneering will to his theoretical and comparative criticism of the Roberts Court. The Roberts Court decisions are not examined in a vacuum but instead viewed in light of constitutional politics in India, South Africa, emerging Eastern European nations, and others. While constitutional decisions abroad have contributed to both the breakdown and strengthening of democratic politics, decisions in the Roberts Court have aggravated the potential destabilizing factors in democratic governments. Ultimately, Unfit for Democracy calls for an interpretation of the Constitution that takes the future of democracy seriously. Gottlieb warns that the Roberts Court's decisions have hurt ordinary Americans economically, politically, and in the criminal process. They have damaged the historic American melting pot, increased the risk of anti-democratic paramilitaries, and clouded the democratic future.
College Education and Sense of Control A Twin-discordant Design

Although researchers routinely find a positive association between education and sense of control, it is unclear whether this association represents a causal connection or rather reflects correlati...
Is Statin Monotherapy the Perfect Polypill

Physicians have long sought a single pharmaceutical product that could safely, inexpensively, and reliably reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death. Fifteen years ago, Wald and Law1 estimated that a combination “polypill” containing a statin, multiple antihypertensive agents, aspirin, and folic acid would reduce cardiovascular disease by >80%. This optimistic projection was based on several assumptions, including that the effect of each agent would be additive, that adherence to a combination product would be high, and that overall delivery of care would be improved because no screening for risk factors or monitoring of biochemical safety parameters would be needed. Almost immediately, the polypill concept generated considerable enthusiasm, particularly in resource-poor settings. As a result of this enthusiasm, multiple polypill formulations have been patented for use in primary and secondary prevention, and several important hard-outcome trials are now underway. As the polypill concept has evolved, however, not all of Wald and Law’s core assumptions have withstood direct testing. This has been particularly true in the setting of primary prevention. First, randomized trials have found folic acid to be ineffective for reducing vascular events. Second, the value of aspirin in primary prevention is modest and may not outweigh bleeding risks for most individuals. Third, initial enthusiasm for an “age alone” treatment strategy (treat all men and women >55 years of age) has largely yielded to a strategy based on estimated absolute risk, albeit with a risk estimation tool that does not require …
Elevated Hemoglobin A1c Is Associated With Lower Socioeconomic Position and Increased Postoperative Infections and Longer Hospital Stay After Cardiac Surgical Procedures

Background Patients with elevated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels have an increased risk of adverse short- and long-term outcomes after cardiac surgical procedures. Whether elevated HbA1c levels are associated with lower socioeconomic position (SEP) has been unknown. Methods All adult patients undergoing cardiac surgical procedures at Kansas University Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas in 2014 (n = 567) were reviewed. Of those patients, 531 had a preoperative HbA1c level measured. HbA1c was delineated as 7% or lower or greater than 7%. The two aims of this study were to evaluate a possible association of HbA1c and SEP and to evaluate for a possible association of HbA1c levels and poor outcomes after cardiac surgical procedures. The primary postsurgical outcomes were infections and intensive care unit length of stay. Results HbA1c levels greater than 7% were associated with lower SEP ( p = 0.005) and with increased risk of infection postoperatively ( p p = 0.009). Conclusions Elevated HbA1c levels are associated with lower SEP. This association not only may hinder the ability to correct HbA1c levels, but also may impart a risk for elevated HbA1c levels. Additionally, patients who present for cardiac operations with HbA1c greater than 7% have an increased risk of postoperative infections.