cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recall-Oriented Learning of Named Entities in Arabic Wikipedia

We consider the problem of NER in Arabic Wikipedia, a semisupervised domain adaptation setting for which we have no labeled training data in the target domain. To facilitate evaluation, we obtain annotations for articles in four topical groups, allowing annotators to identify domain-specific entity types in addition to standard categories. Standard supervised learning on newswire text leads to poor target-domain recall. We train a sequence model and show that a simple modification to the online learner---a loss function encouraging it to "arrogantly" favor recall over precision---substantially improves recall and F1. We then adapt our model with self-training on unlabeled target-domain data; enforcing the same recall-oriented bias in the self-training stage yields marginal gains.
Intra-articular ganglion cyst arising from the anterior cruciate ligament: a case report

Intra-articular ganglion cysts have been reported in the medical literature but are extremely rare. A MEDLINE search from 1966 to July 1995 revealed no reported cases in the Physical Medicine literature. This case report details the presentation, evaluation and treatment course of a patient with knee complaints who was subsequently diagnosed to have a ganglion cyst arising from the anterior cruciate ligament. The patient was a 38-year-old woman with a 6-month history of knee swelling and pain. She had difficulty walking. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents had not alleviated her symptoms significantly. Physiatric evaluation revealed a supra-patellar effusion and a mass lateral to the patellar tendon. MRI evaluation revealed an intra-articular cyst. The patient underwent surgical removal of what was subsequently determined to be an intra-articular ganglion cyst arising from the anterior cruciate ligament. The patient has had progressive resolution of her knee symptoms post-operatively. Physiatrists need to be aware of this cause of mechanical knee symptoms.
A ROBUST NONLINEAR CONTROL DESIGN FOR PATH FOLLOWING OF A MARINE SURFACE VESSEL

Abstract The problem of path following for marine surface vessels using rudder angle is addressed in this paper. A 4 degrees of freedom nonlinear surface vessel model, together with the Serret-Frenet equations, is introduced to describe the ship dynamics and path following error dynamics. While similar models have been used and reported in literature for path following control algorithm development, the novelty of the approach presented in this work lies in the following aspects: (a) The back-stepping nonlinear controller design is based on feedback dominance, instead of feedback linearization and nonlinearity cancellation; (b) Relying on feedback dominance, the resulting controller is almost linear, with very benign nonlinearities allowing for analysis and evaluation; (c) Performance of the nonlinear controller, in terms of path following, is analyzed for robustness in the presence of rudder saturation and rate limits, delays in the control execution, as well as measurement noises. Because of its simple form, very limited on-board computational power is required to implement the control. The simulation results are presented to verify and illustrate the analytic development and the effectiveness of the resulting control.
Geology of Freeport Rocks, Offshore Texas: ABSTRACT

The Freeport Rocks, a linear trend of isolated, submerged rock pinnacles about 6 mi offshore from Freeport, Texas, were studied by SCUBA diving, petrographic techniques, and carbon-14 dating. They have been interpreted previously as a relict beach which developed about 30,000 years B.P. The present study indicates the environment of deposition was an offshore bar or barrier island composed predominantly of reworked material from the underlying Beaumont Formation. Diagenetic features include cementation by low-Mg calcite (in the form of druse and blocky cement) and inversion of aragonite shells to low-Mg calcite. The diagenetic features suggest that the deposit subsequently was exposed subaerially and cemented by low-Mg calcite. Because much of the original shell material was neomorphosed during diagenesis, carbon-14 age determinations may not give the age of the deposit. Thus carbon-14 dates were interpreted in light of the neomorphism and suggest that deposition of the Freeport Rocks was less than 15,857 ± 268 years B.P. This information, combined with data fro various eustatic sea level curves, strongly suggests that the Freeport Rocks were deposited during the still-stand of the transgressing Holocene sea between 7,500 and 8,200 years B.P. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1700------------
Data acquisition continues on Viking

After more than 4 years of acquiring data from spacecraft on the surface of and in orbit around Mars, the Viking Project terminated at the end of September. Orbiter 1 exhausted its supply of attitude-control gas on August 7 and was shut down. During the past year, the orbiter produced a large quantity of excellent data, but only a fraction of it has been examined. From July through October 1977, about 2800 photographs were taken. Resolution was superior to that obtained in the primary mission in 1976. The area covered extends from Syrtis Major Planitia to Chryse Planitia, and over most of its 5000-km length it is more than 300 km wide. The mission produced the most extensive high-resolution contiguous coverage ever achieved.
Evidence for polyreactivity seen with monoclonal antibodies produced against type II collagen

Abstract Specific type II collagen monoclonal antibodies are needed for the quantification of articular cartilage collagen. In this study we produced and characterized 29 type II collagen monoclonal antibodies. Hybridomas were generated from mice immunized with rat type II collagen, selected for high antibody production against type II collagen using ELISA. Antibodies from selected and cloned hybridoma cells were purified by affinity chromatography and their reactivity tested by ELISA against a panel of antigens including actin, thyroglobulin, and single stranded DNA, all of which have been used to characterize the ‘naturally occurring antibodies’. It was found that many of the anti-type II collagen monoclonal antibodies reacted to more than one antigen. The monospecific antibodies had higher affinity to type II collagen than the antibodies which demonstrated multireactivity. Because of the prevalence of polyreactive anti-type II collagen antibodies, it is advisable to employ highly selective methodologies to isolate high affinity monospecific antibodies to type II collagen.
Identifying the Identified: The Need for Critical Exploration of Native American Identity within Educational Contexts

Abstract Whereas, teacher education programs strive to prepare preservice teacher education students to address various diversities, this article discusses the lack of critical exploration of Native American identity and discusses its impact within P-12 and higher education contexts. Stereotypes, historical imagery, and cultural assumptions about Native Americans and Native communities are deconstructed through the use of statistics and other factual information. Teacher educators, preservice teachers, and classroom teachers are challenged to evaluate their educational histories and attitudes toward Native Americans as a first step to a critical exploration of Native American identity. Suggestions are provided to educators to prompt investigation into Native American identity and contemporary Indigenous issues within the classroom.
A model of the gating of ion channels

Abstract The gating of ion channels in biological membranes has usually been described in termsof Markov transitions between a few discrete open or closed states. Such models predict that the distributions of open and closed durations decay as a sum of exponential terms. Recent experimental data have indicated that certain channels are not easily described by these models. We show that distributions of open and closed times similar to those seen experimentally are predicted by a model that involves only one open and closed state but that assumes the activation energy of the gating process to be stochastic. This model involves only a few parameters and these have direct physical interpretations. Measurements of the correlation between the durations of successive open or closed events is shown to provide an experimental method for distinguishing between this and other models.
FLUORESCENCE SPECTROSCOPY OF A P700‐CHLOROPHYLL‐PROTEIN COMPLEX*

. Chlorophyll-protein complexes enriched in the Photosystem I reaction center chlorophyll (P700) exhibit a fluorescence emission maximum at 696 nm at - 196°C The height of this 696 nm emission relative to the emission at 683 nm from antenna chlorophyll a increases proportionally with the P700 concentration while the total fluorescence yield of the complex decreases. The 696 nm emission could possibly be from an absorbing form of antenna chlorophyll a that may be somewhat enriched along with P700 in Photosystem I fractions. However, evidence resulting from glycerol treatment which appears to decrease the rate of resonance energy transfer between antenna chlorophyll and P700 favors the hypothesis that the emission comes from a photooxidized P700 dimer (Chl+-Chl) absorbing near 690 nm. In turn, this fluorescence evidence provides additional support for the model of a P700 dimer involving exciton interaction. Absorption in the wavelength region of 450 nm specifically excites emission at 696 nm from the P700-chlorophyll complex.
Prekallikrein (Fletcher factor) deficiency in clinical disease states.

Abstract Plasma prekallikrein activity was measured in a clotting test in 315 consecutive patients undergoing coagulation profiles during the seven month period between January 1, 1979, and August 3, 1979, using substrate from one of our patients with severe Fletcher factor deficiency. Among the 68 patients with significantly reduced Fletcher factor activity (
Comparative anatomy of the female genitalia of generic-level taxa in tribe Aedini (Diptera: Culicidae). Part XXXVIII. Genus Petermattinglyius Reinert, Harbach and Kitching.

A comparative, morphological analysis of the female genitalia of species included in genus Georgecraigius Reinert, Harbach and Kitching was conducted. A composite description of the female genitalia for the genus is provided. The type species of the genus, Gc. atropalpus (Coquillett), is described and illustrated. Female genital morphology of the two currently recognized subgenera. Georgecraigius and Horsfallius Reinert, Harbach and Kitching, are included. A list of the species examined in each subgenus is given and includes any published illustrations and/or descriptions with their literature citations. The discussion section contains the most distinctive features of the genus, a comparison of these with other aedine genera, and other pertinent information. Four additional terms used to describe female genital structures are introduced.
Lifting Markov chains to speed up mixing

There are several examples where the mixing time of a Markov chain can be reduced substantially, often to about its square root, by “lifting”, i.e., by splitting each state into several states. In several examples of random walks on groups, the lifted chain not only mixes better, but is easier to analyze. We characterize the best mixing time achievable through lifting in terms of multicommodity flows. We show that the reduction to square root is best possible. If the lifted chain is time-reversible, then the gain is smaller, at most a factor of log(l/na), where 110 is the smallest stationary probability of any state. We give an example showing that a gain of a factor of log(l/~o)/log log(l/rro) is possible.
Post-Fledging Estimation of Annual Productivity in Boreal Owls Based on Prey Detritus Mass

ESTIMACION POST-EMPLUMAMIENTO DE LA PRODUCTIVIDAD ANUAL EN AEGOLIUS FUNEREUS BASADA EN EL PESO DE LOS RESTOS DE PRESAS Se monitorearon nidos artificiales de Aegolius funereus del interior de Alaska en primavera y verano de 2005 y 2006, y se registro el exito de emplumamiento. En septiembre y octubre, se colectaron restos de presas en 23 nidos artificiales donde las lechuzas habian realizado intentos de nidificacion previos en el ano. Los pesos secos de los restos de las presas estuvieron correlacionados significativamente con las tasas de emplumamiento (regresion lineal, P < 0.05). Esto sugiere que el peso del conglomerado de los restos de las presas puede ser usado como una alternativa a las observaciones directas de las tasas de emplumamiento, permitiendo documentar datos importantes sobre la productividad anual cuando no pueden realizarse conteos directos. Mediante evaluaciones adicionales, este metodo puede ser util para estimar la productividad en otras especies de lechuza que nidifican en cavidades.
Cerebral blood volume measured with inhaled C15O and positron emission tomography

Local cerebral blood volume (CBV) has been measured previously with inhaled /sup 11/CO and positron emission tomography (PET). The model used assumes that equilibrium in tracer concentration has occurred between arterial and systemic venous blood before the PET measurement is made. To verify that this model may be used with the much shorter half-lived C/sup 15/O, we have simultaneously measured arterial and venous blood radioactivity following C/sup 15/O inhalation. Equilibrium occurred 95 +/- 39 s after inhalation (n = 7). If the PET measurement is commenced prior to arteriovenous equilibrium, significant errors occur in calculated CBV. These data indicate that C/sup 15/O may be used as a tracer for CBV measurement provided that emission data collection commences at approximately 120 s after inhalation. Strict quality control measures must be maintained to minimize the contamination of administered C/sup 15/O with /sup 15/O-labeled CO/sub 2/.
Sepsis induces an early increased spontaneous release of hepatocellular stimulatory factor (interleukin-6) by Kupffer cells in both endotoxin tolerant and intolerant mice.

Abstract Previous studies have shown that hepatocellular function is significantly depressed early during sepsis and that this is associated with a marked increase in the circulating levels of the hepatocellular stimulatory factor (IL-6). It remains unknown, however, whether or not Kupffer cells (KC) are activated during sepsis and whether these cells are the major contributors to the increased circulating levels of this cytokine. The objectives of this study were, therefore, to determine whether or not during sepsis: (1) KC are stimulated in vivo to release IL-6, as compared to other cytokines; (2) KC differ from splenic macrophages (SMφ) in their ability to release cytokines; and (3) there is a difference in macrophage (Mφ) cytokine release between endotoxin (ET)-tolerant (C3H/HeJ) and ET-intolerant (C3H/HeN) mice. To assess this, KC and SMφ were harvested at 1 or 24 hr from mice which had been subjected to polymicrobial sepsis by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) or sham-operation. Following depletion of the nonadherent cells, KC and SMμ cultures were incubated for 24 hr in the presence or absence of 10 μg of ET/ml, and the levels of interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, and TNF release were determined by bioassays. Sepsis induced an early (at 1 hr) in vivo stimulation of KC but not SMφ IL-6 release, irrespective of ET-tolerance/intolerance. However, the release of IL-1 or TNF was not markedly different for either CLP or sham KC. KC harvested from mice 24 hr post-CLP no longer showed an increase in innate cytokine release, whereas SMφ from these same animals exhibited a marked reduction in cytokine release both in the presence and in the absence of added ET. These findings support the notion that during early sepsis KC are selectively activated to release IL-6, irrespective of the animals' sensitivity to ET. Furthermore, the enhanced localized release of IL-6 by KC induced by CLP may contribute to hepatocellular dysfunction observed during early sepsis.
Aggregation of penaeid shrimp larvae due to microbial epibionts

Abstract Pseudomonas piscicida, Aeromonas formicans and Flavobacteria sp. were involved in aggregation of hatchery reared Penaeus stylirostris larvae. Aggregation was experimentally reproduced with pure cultures of these organisms at densities of 10 4 cells per ml. Adding at least 3 μg/ml gentamycin, 10 μg/ml nalidixic acid, 0.1 μg/ml acridine or Cutrine Plus ® ∗ into test suspensions prevented aggregation of the shrimp larvae.
Design and modeling of hybrid fault-tolerant software with cost constraints

Fault-tolerant programming methods improve software reliability by using the principles of design diversity and redundancy. Design diversity and redundancy, however, escalate the cost of software design and development. In this article, we study the reliability of hybrid software fault-tolerant systems based on recovery block and n-version programming schemes. Heuristic methods are developed to construct optimal hybrid software fault-tolerant systems with total cost constraints.
Effects of hyperprolactinemia on plasma prolactin and glucose and on local cerebral glucose utilization.

: Elevated blood levels of prolactin increase the synthesis, turnover, and release of 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylethylamine (dopamine) from the tuberoinfundibular dopaminergic neurons, which project to the median eminence. The present study examined whether hyperprolactinemia also increases local cerebral glucose utilization, as determined by the 2-deoxy-D-[I-14C]glucose method, in the median eminence and other brain structures. Adult male rats were given ovine prolactin (4 mg/kg) subcutaneously every 8 h for 48 h. This treatment exerted an autoregulatory feedback effect on endogenous rat prolactin secretion, as evidenced by decreased circulating levels of rat prolactin. Ovine prolactin treatment also decreased plasma glucose concentrations. However, in both partially immobilized and free-ranging rats, glucose utilization in brain structures containing tuberoinfundibular dopaminergic cell bodies (the arcuate nucleus) and terminals (the median eminence) was not affected by ovine prolactin treatment. Hyperprolactinemia was, however, associated with decreased glucose utilization in the medial forebrain bundle and the CA subfield of the dorsal hippocampus. The lack of a significant effect of prolactin treatment on glucose utilization in the median eminence indicates (a) that the resolution of the deoxyglucose technique, as used here, is not adequate to detect the ovine prolactin-induced increase in tuberoinfundibular dopaminergic neuronal activity, (b) that the median eminence does not utilize glucose as its primary energy substrate, or (c) that ovine prolactin treatment causes a counterbalancing decrease in the activity of other neurons projecting to the median eminence.
Urinary tract obstruction: stents in pyeloplasty: beware of false precision.

As we strive to practice evidence-based medicine, using sophisticated analytical methods to guide our clinical decisions is alluring. Clinicians must, however, be fully aware of the influence of limited data, as with surgical procedures such as pediatric pyeloplasty, and innocent assumptions that could substantially affect the conclusions of such analysis.
Variation in Diet of the Gray Bat (Myotis grisescens)

During spring and summer 1991, a total of 1,476 fresh fecal pellets of gray bats, Myotis grisescens , was collected at Blowing Wind Cave, Jackson Co., Alabama. Fourteen orders of Insecta, unidentified Insecta, an unknown organism (possibly Insecta), two orders of Arachnida, and hair from gray bats were recovered; in decreasing order, the most common taxa were Lepidoptera, Diptera, and Coleoptera. Food categories exhibited significant variation among sampling sessions, nights within sampling sessions, and hours within sampling sessions. When quantity of each food category in fecal pellets was compared with quantity of potential prey available for consumption, there was no statistically significant correlation. There was significant variation in diet over time, but bats did not select prey in proportion to availability.
Influences of Formal Schooling on International Mathematical Olympiad Winners From Korea

Interviews with five former International Mathematical Olympiad winners were analyzed to determine how various aspects of their schooling influenced their academic development and ability. The influential factors include school administrations, teachers, peers, and participation in mathematics competitions and clubs. Participation in mathematics clubs was found to be most influential on their academic development in mathematics because of the peer interaction. Teacher influences were identified as both positive and negative because some encouraged their students’ achievement and talents, whereas others were not focused on the students’ interests or developmental needs. The school system or administration was a positive influence when flexibility allowed younger students to participate in competitions. Educators are urged to recognize various influences identified through this study.
Pathogenesis of infectious splenic enlargement in mice.

Abstract Gross and histopathological data on spleen and lymph nodes from male Bagg albino mice inoculated with an extract containing the transmissible, filterable spleen weight increase factor (SWIF) are presented. The disease syndrome produced by this so far unidentified agent is shown to consist of marked splenomegaly followed by generalized lymph node enlargement. On the basis of organ weight, relative cellularity and mitotic activity, it is suggested that the syndrome has two distinct phases, a phase of hyperemic congestion followed about 10 days later by a phase of hyperplasia.
Effect of Z-yarns on the stiffness and strength of three-dimensional woven composites

Abstract Micro-mechanics tools investigating the in-plane elastic and strength properties of 3D woven composites are developed in this work. Particular attention is directed toward constructing detailed geometry and finite element models of an example 3D weave architecture available in the literature. The models are then modified to investigate the effect of including the Z-yarns on the changes in stiffness and strength properties. In particular, the effect of incorporating the ‘Z-Crowns’ is quantified with the aid of three-dimensional finite element simulations.
Laboratory assessment of gastrointestinal function

Over the past decade, several laboratory tests have been introduced to veterinary medicine that allow the minimally invasive assessment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and pancreas. Although some of those tests have limited clinical use in a practice setting and have more use as research tools, other tests, such as serum cobalamin and folate concentrations, find wide application in everyday veterinary practice. In some cases, definitive diagnosis requires invasive or expensive procedures, but these new laboratory tests have greatly aided veterinarians in diagnosing gastrointestinal diseases. This discussion provides an overview of new diagnostic tests that will allow the minimally invasive assessment of gastrointestinal function.
A particle-hole calculation for pion production in relativistic heavy-ion collisions.

A differential cross section for pi-meson production in peripheral heavy-ion collisions is formulated within the context of a particle-hole model in the Tamm-Dancoff approximation. This is the first attempt at a fully quantum-mechanical particle-hole calculation for pion production in relativistic heavy-ion collisions. The particular reaction studied is an O-16 projectile colliding with a C-12 target at rest. In the projectile a linear combination of isobar-hole states is formed, with the possibility of a coherent isobar giant resonance. The target can be excited to its giant M1 resonance (J-pi = 1(+), T = 1) at 15.11 MeV, or to its isobar analog neighbors, B-12 at 13.4 MeV and N-12 at 17.5 MeV. The theory is compared to recent experimental results.
STRESSFUL LIFE EVENTS AND DELINQUENCY ESCALATION IN EARLY ADOLESCENCE

A recent emphasis in criminology has been on trajectories, life transitions, and turning points that affect the escalation, stabilization, or desistance of deviant behavior. The purpose of this article is to describe and examine one potential pathway of delinquency escalation in early and mid-adolescence. It draws upon Agnew's general strain theory and research on adolescent stress to describe a significant transitory stage of the life course. A key organizing principle underlying the proposed pathway is that although stressful life events are highly variable among adolescents, experiencing a persistent or increasing number over time can lead to an escalation of delinquency. Using four years of sequential data from the Family Health Study (651 adolescents aged 11–14 during year one), we estimate a hierarchical growth-curve model that emphasizes the effects of life events on delinquency. The model assumes that delinquency is distributed as an overdispersed Poisson random variable. The results indicate that experiencing a relatively high number of life events over time is related to a significant “growth” of delinquency but that this relationship is not affected by sex, family income, self-esteem, or mastery.
Two methods for 24 Gbps test signal synthesis

This paper describes and compares two methods for producing digital test signals up to 24 Gbps. Prototypes are experimentally characterized to determine signal quality, and the two methods are demonstrated and compared. The residual timing errors are dominated by jitter. Typical random jitter (RJ) is about 1.17ps to 1.4ps (RMS) including system measurement errors for the two methods. Deterministic Jitter (DJ) is between 2.4ps and 8.5ps. Total jitter (TJ) ranges between 18.9ps and 28.2ps at a bit-error-rate BER=10−12.
Time dependent model for hemoglobin and allosteric enzymes. II.

The time-dependent theory developed in Part I is specialized to treat tetrameric hemoglobin, and the results of the theory for dimeric-and tetrameric hemoglobin are compared with data on the kinetics of the reactions of hemoglobin with carbon monoxide and oxygen at various salt concentrations for the case of large concentration of ligand relative to that of hemoglobin. The fit of the theoretical results to the data suggests that hemoglobin at a 2 M salt concentration is predominantly dimeric and that the tetramer should be taken as the functional unit to explain the kinetics of the reactions of normal hemoglobin. A relationship is established between the time-dependent theory arid Adair's Intermediate Compound Hypothesis (I.C.H.) for hemoglobin, as brought to its present state by Gibson and Roughton. A generalization (G.I.C.H.) of the I.C.H. is presented and is shown to be equivalent to the time-dependent theory in the limit of infinite ligand concentration. The I.C.H. is shown to be an excellent approximation to the centralized theory (G.I.C.H.) in this limit.
Influence of Permeant Ions on Voltage Sensor Function in the Kv2.1 Potassium Channel

We previously demonstrated that the outer vestibule of activated Kv2.1 potassium channels can be in one of two conformations, and that K+ occupancy of a specific selectivity filter site determines which conformation the outer vestibule is in. These different outer vestibule conformations result in different sensitivities to internal and external TEA, different inactivation rates, and different macroscopic conductances. The [K+]-dependent switch in outer vestibule conformation is also associated with a change in rate of channel activation. In this paper, we examined the mechanism by which changes in [K+] modulate the rate of channel activation. Elevation of symmetrical [K+] or [Rb+] from 0 to 3 mM doubled the rate of on-gating charge movement (Qon), measured at 0 mV. Cs+ produced an identical effect, but required 40-fold higher concentrations. All three permeant ions occupied the selectivity filter over the 0.03–3 mM range, so simple occupancy of the selectivity filter was not sufficient to produce the change in Qon. However, for each of these permeant ions, the speeding of Qon occurred with the same concentration dependence as the switch between outer vestibule conformations. Neutralization of an amino acid (K356) in the outer vestibule, which abolishes the modulation of channel pharmacology and ionic currents by the K+-dependent reorientation of the outer vestibule, also abolished the K+-dependence of Qon. Together, the data indicate that the K+-dependent reorientation in the outer vestibule was responsible for the change in Qon. Moreover, similar [K+]-dependence and effects of mutagenesis indicate that the K+-dependent change in rate of Qon can account for the modulation of ionic current activation rate. Simple kinetic analysis suggested that K+ reduced an energy barrier for voltage sensor movement. These results provide strong evidence for a direct functional interaction, which is modulated by permeant ions acting at the selectivity filter, between the outer vestibule of the Kv2.1 potassium channel and the voltage sensor.
Population dynamics of king eiders breeding in northern Alaska

The North American population of king eiders (Somateria spectabilis) has declined by more than 50% since the late 1970s for unknown reasons. King eiders spend most of their lives in remote areas, forcing managers to make regulatory and conservation decisions based on very little information. We incorporated available published estimates of vital rates with new estimates to build a female, stage-based matrix population model for king eiders and examine the processes underlying population dynamics of king eiders breeding at 2 sites, Teshekpuk and Kuparuk, on the coastal plain of northern Alaska and wintering around the Bering Sea (2001–2010). We predicted a decreasing population (λ = 0.981, 95% CI: 0.978–0.985), and that population growth was most sensitive to changes in adult female survival (sensitivity = 0.92). Low duckling survival may be a bottleneck to productivity (variation in ducking survival accounted for 66% of retrospective variation in λ). Adult survival was high (0.94) and invariant ( = 0.0002, 95% CI: 0.0000–0.0007); however, catastrophic events could have a major impact and we need to consider how to mitigate and manage threats to adult survival. A hypothetical oil spill affecting breeding females in a primary spring staging area resulted in a severe population decline; although, transient population dynamics were relatively stable. However, if no catastrophic events occur, the more variable reproductive parameters (duckling and nest survival) may be more responsive to management actions. Published 2012. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
On the convergence of Grossberg's learning equations

Abstract Grossberg's studies of learning in cross-coupled networks of outstar type all analyse convergence properties of the network by making a change of variables that yields a system of the form a X = A(Y − X) + B(θ − X) a Y = C(X − Y) , where A, B, and C are nonnegative and continuous functions of time, and θ is constant. Apart from analysis of this system, each particular outstar differs only in the definitions of A, B, and C. This paper presents a unified account of convergence in this system, refining methods developed in Grossberg [l, 2, 3, 4, 5].
Solid-State 109Ag NMR: A Sensitive Environmental Probe for Silver Thiolates

The first solid-state 109Ag cross-polarization magic-angle spinning (CPMAS) NMR spectra of biologically relevant Ag+ thiolates are reported. The principal values of the 109Ag NMR shielding tensors were determined for [Ag5L3(LH)3](ClO4)2 (L = S(CH2)3NMe2) and AgS(CH2)3CH3 by the method of Herzfeld and Berger. Together, the chemical shift parameters provide information about the different environments surrounding Ag in these compounds. Good agreement is found between these data and solution 109Ag NMR data on Ag8MT (MT = metallothionein), a protein with exclusive Ag−S(cysteine) bonding.
Nucleotide sequence and transcription of a trypomastigote surface antigen gene of Trypanosoma cruzi

In previous studies we identified a 500-bp segment of the gene, TSA-1, which encodes an 85-kDa trypomastigote-specific surface antigen of the Peru strain of Trypanosoma cruzi. TSA-1 was shown to be located at a telomeric site and to contain a 27-bp tandem repeat unit within the coding region. This repeat unit defines a discrete subset of a multigene family and places the TSA-1 gene within this subset. In this study, we present the complete nucleotide sequence of the TSA-1 gene from the Peru strain. By homology matrix analysis, fragments of two other trypomastigote specific surface antigen genes, pTt34 and SA85-1.1, are shown to have extensive sequence homology with TSA-1 indicating that these genes are members of the same gene family as TSA-1. The TSA-1 subfamily was also found to be active in two other strains of T. cruzi, one of which contains multiple telomeric members and one of which contains a single non-telomeric member, suggesting that transcription is not necessarily dependent on the gene being located at a telomeric site. Also, while some of the sequences found in this gene family are present in 2 size classes of poly(A)+ RNA, others appear to be restricted to only 1 of the 2 RNA classes.
Virtual electrowetting channels: electronic liquid transport with continuous channel functionality.

Reported is a new mechanism for electronic transport of liquid in virtual channels. These virtual channels are formed by application of voltage to an array of polymer posts. The posts are coated with a conducting electrode and hydrophobic dielectric, and thereby capable of electrowetting. Directional channel formation, as well as splitting and merging, is also demonstrated using specific arrangements of posts. The channel dimensions are ∼20 µm in cross-section, are scalable, and at the threshold for channel formation the minimum transport speed is ∼1 mm s−1. The virtual electrowetting channels are further unique as they can retain any channel geometry even in the absence of voltage. With the addition of arrayed voltage controls, the virtual electrowetting channels have the potential to combine the advantages of programmable electrowetting and continuous channel functionality into a single lab-on-chip platform.
Genome-wide profiling reveals epigenetic inactivation of the PU.1 pathway by histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation in cytogenetically normal myelodysplastic syndrome

Cytogenetically normal myelodysplastic syndrome (CN-MDS) can pose diagnostic challenges and its pathogenetic mechanism remains elusive. By focusing on cytogenetically normal refractory cytopenia with multilineage dysplasia (CN-RCMD), a subtype of MDS, our genome-wide profiling showed ∼4600 annotated gene promoters with increased Histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) in CN-RCMD, when compared with normal controls. Computational analysis revealed a statistically significant enrichment of the PU.1-binding DNA motif (PU-box) in the regions with increased H3K27me3. An inverse relationship between the levels of H3K27me3 and the levels of PU.1 binding and its downstream myeloid gene expressions was observed. Whole-exome sequencing analysis and Sanger sequencing analysis revealed some recurrent mutations, but no mutations in the PU.1 regulatory regions or in the EZH1/2, H3K27 methytransferase encoding genes. Using an MDS-derived erythroid/myeloid line and primary MDS bone marrow cells, we demonstrated that H3K27me3 inhibitors can increase the expression of PU.1 and its downstream genes and also promote cell differentiation via reducing H3K27me3 at the PU.1 gene locus. Finally, ectopic expression of PU.1 significantly inhibited proliferation of the MDS-derived cell line. Based on these data, we propose a hypothetical model of epigenetic inactivation of the PU.1 pathway due to increased H3K27me3 in some cases of CN-RCMD.
Bioterrorism and the Pediatric Patient: An Update

In the December 2002 issue of Clinical Pediatric Emergency Medicine , Andrew Kienstra and the author addressed the evaluation and management of children exposed to or infected with biological agents of terrorism. This topic had become particularly relevant to pediatricians, emergency physicians, and other front-line health care workers in the United States the previous year, when a child contracted cutaneous anthrax as part of the distribution of anthrax spores to prominent political and media figures via the US Postal Service. The ensuing 11 years have seen an enormous increase in bioterrorism research. This article reviews updates in the detection, diagnosis, and management of the organisms and toxins considered to be at highest risk for bioterrorist use.
Adverse reproductive outcome and antibody to Toxoplasma gondii in a cohort of peruvian sheep

Abstract A cohort study of adverse reproductive outcome was conducted on a large sheep-raising enterprise in Peru. A total of 673 adult ewes were followed through one reproductive cycle. Assessment endpoints included normal live birth, stillbirth, infertility and perinataldeath within the first 72 h of life. An abnormal reproductive outcome was experienced by 41.5% of ewes. The incidence rates for stillbirth, infertility and perinatal death were 3.0, 32.1 and 6.4%, respectively. Blood samples were obtained from all ewes at the onset of the breeding season and again at lambing. A total of 211 sera from ewes with adverse reproductive outcome were tested for antibody to Toxoplasma gondii . Approximately 27% of ewes were seropositive at the time of initial sampling. Over 30% of ewes seroconverted during the 4 months of observation. Among seroconverters, the frequency distribution of stillbirth, infertility and perinatal death was similar to that observed among ewes which remained seronegative. Among ewes which were seropositive at time of initial sampling and remained seropositive, only infertility was observed. The results suggest that agents other than Toxoplasma gondii may be playing a role in the occurence of stillbirth, infertility and perinatal death in this population.
Primate spinothalamic pathways: II. The cells of origin of the dorsolateral and ventral spinothalamic pathways

The cells of origin of the dorsolateral (DSTT) and the ventral (VSTT) spinothalamic tracts were studied in 11 monkeys. The spinothalamic tract cells were retrogradely labeled by horseradish peroxidase (HRP) injected in the thalamus. All animals also received a midthoracic spinal cord lesion on the side ipsilateral to the thalamic injections. The distribution of labeled cells found in these animals throughout the cervical segments was similar to animals with no spinal cord lesions. Five animals had ventral quadrant lesions to demonstrate the cells of origin of the DSTT. In macaques with complete ventral quadrant lesions, more than 80% of the HRP label in the contralateral L4-L7 segments was located in lamina I, while in squirrel monkeys, the label in the contralateral lower lumbar region was distributed between laminae I-III and IV-VI. Few labeled cells were found in laminae VII-X. Six animals received dorsolateral funiculus lesions to demonstrate the cells of origin of the VSTT. In animals with adequate lesions, 84-99% of the contralateral HRP label in L4-L7 was located in laminae IV-X. Macaques had a larger percentage of labeled cells located in lamina I than squirrel monkeys. The results indicate the existence of two spinothalamic pathways in the primate. The DSTT was calculated to compose about one fourth of the total spinothalamic population.
Nanomaterials synthesis by a novel phenomenon: The nanoscale Rayleigh-Taylor instability

The Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) interfacial instability has been attributed to physical phenomenon in a wide variety of macroscopic systems, including black holes, laser generated plasmas, and thick fluids. However, evidence for its existence in the nanoscale is lacking. Here we first show theoretically that this instability can occur in films with thickness negligible compared to the capillary length when they are heated rapidly inside a bulk fluid. Pressure gradients developed in the evaporated fluid region produce large forces causing the instability. Experiments were performed by melting Au films inside glycerol fluid by nanosecond laser pulses. The ensuing nanoparticles had highly monomodal size distributions. Importantly, the spacing of the nanoparticles was independent of the film thickness and could be tuned by the magnitude of the pressure gradients. Therefore, this instability can overcome some of the limitations of conventional thin self-organization techniques that rely on film thickness to control length scales.
Integrated Bayesian decision: A case

The process described in this article provides a framework for combining the judgments and experiences of each member of a decision-making unit. Utilizing the Bayesian approach to decision-making and the Jury of Executive Opinion the model may be of assistance to management teams, Boards of Directors and committees in reaching a consensus on critical decisions. The data are based on an actual case experience familiar to the authors.
Nominalism and Idealism

The article considers, in a historical setting, the links between varieties of nominalism—the extreme nominalism of the Quine-Goodman variety and the trope nominalism current today—and types of idealism. In so doing arguments of various twentieth century figures, including Husserl, Bradley, Russell, and Sartre, as well as a contemporary attack on relations by Peter Simons are critically examined. The paper seeks to link the rejection of realism about universals with the rejection of a mind-independent “world”—in short, linking nominalism with idealism.
Teaching entering students to think like computer scientists

This paper describes a new course developed at University of Maine to help students better understand the discipline of computer science and to aid us in recruiting and retaining majors. The course verview of computer science, but also, through focusing on particular topics at an advanced level, begins to teach students how computer scientists think about problems. The course has been taught in Fall 2002, 2003 and 2004. This paper describes the course and discusses our results from the first two years.
Isolation and partial characterization of a porcine thyroglobulin-binding Phaseolus vulgaris L. lectin

Abstract An albumin lectin from Phaseolus vulgaris L. cultivar Black Turtle Soup (BTS) was purified with procine thyroglobulin (PTG)-Sepharose affinity chromatography and Sephadex SP-C50-120 ion exchange chromatography. The PTG-binding lectin concentration of BTS bean is 22.5 ± 0.9 mg g−1 dry flour. The lectin is a tetrameric protein with an estimated molecular weight of 140.000 ± 9,000, and a sedimentation coefficient of 6.7 S at pH 6.0. The estimated molecular weights of the polypeptide subunits were 37,500, 35,000, 34,500 and 33,500. Isoelectric focusing of the purified lectin revealed three major bands and two minor bands. The isoforms of the lectin focused in a pI range of 5.7–6.3. The partition coefficient of the lectin in a Waters I-250 protein column was 0.25. The lectin contained small concentrations of methionine and no detectable cysteine.
Ring-opening insertion of a substituted dithiazole-3-thione into the Re-Re bond in a dirhenium carbonyl complex

The reaction of the complex Re{sub 2}(CO){sub 9}(NCMe) with 5-((ethoxycarbonyl)amino)-1,2,4-dithiazole-3-thione (1) has yielded the series of complexes Re(CO){sub 4}[{mu}-S{sub 2}CNC(N(H)CO{sub 2}Et)S]Re(CO){sub 5} (2; 8% yield), Re(CO){sub 4}[{mu}-S{sub 2}CNC(NHCO{sub 2}Et)S]Re(CO){sub 4} (3; 14% yield), and Re(CO){sub 4}[{mu}-S{sub 2}CNHC(NCO{sub 2}Et)S]Re(CO){sub 4} (4; 27% yield) by the ring-opening insertion of 1 into the rhenium-rhenium bond of Re{sub 2}(CO){sub 9}(NCMe). The sulfur-sulfur bond in 1 was also cleaved. Two mononuclear rhenium complexes, Re(CO){sub 4}[S{sub 2}CNHCSNH(CO{sub 2}Et)] (5; 14% yield) and Re(CO){sub 4}[SCNC(NHCO{sub 2}Et)SCSN] (6; 6% yield), were also isolated and characterized. Compounds 3 and 4 are isomers that exist in an equilibrium at room temperature. The isomerization of 3 to 4 and vice versa is catalyzed by the presence of pyridine. Each of the complexes 2-6 as well as the starting material 1 was characterized by a single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. 16 refs., 6 figs., 3 tabs.
Dystonic Respiratory Dysregulation and Other Breathing Disorders Associated with Dystonia (P01.223)

Objective: To characterize respiratory complaints in dystonia. Background Respiratory difficulties are sometimes reported by patients with cranial-cervical dystonia (Mehanna R, Jankovic J. Respiratory problems in neurologic movement disorders. Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2010;16: 628-38). This dystonia-related respiratory disorder, however, has not been well characterized. Design/Methods: We review 13 dystonic patients with various respiratory complaints and describe their symptoms and response to botulinum toxin injections. Results: The male to female ratio was 4/9 and the mean age 56.84. Cranial-cervical dystonia was the most frequent diagnosis affecting 9 (69%) patients. The cause of dyspnea was an upper airway dystonic obstruction in 9 (69%) patients, diaphragmatic dysfunction in one (8%) and a combination of both in the remaining 3 (23%) patients. Emergent tracheostomy was required in 2 (15%) patients. Among the 5 patients who underwent laryngoscopy, one had an adductor spasmodic dysphonia and 4 had normal vocal cord motion. Pulmonary function tests were performed in 5 patients and were normal. Videofluoroscopy was performed in 4 patients, showed decreased diaphragmatic movement in 2 and was normal in the 2 others. Among the 8 patient who received botulinum toxin injections and were not lost to follow up, 6 (75%) reported improvement in their respiratory distress and 2 (25%) reported no improvement. Conclusions: In some patients with dystonia, gasping, stridor, interrupted flow of speech, paradoxical breathing, dyspnea on exertion, and other respiratory symptoms suggest involvement of the upper airways, diaphragm, or both as a result of “dystonic respiratory dysregulation”. Botulinum toxin injections may be at least partially beneficial in some patients. This series of patients draws attention to respiratory distress as a potentially serious, even life-threatening, complication of dystonia. Disclosure: Dr. Mehanna has nothing to disclose. Dr. Jankovic has received personal compensation for activities with Allergan, Inc., Chelsea Therapeutics, Serono Inc., Merz Pharma, Lundbeck Research USA, Inc, Teva Neuroscience as a consultant. Dr. Jankovic has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for Medlink: Neurology in Clinical Practice. Dr. Jankovic has received research support from Allergan, Inc, Allon Therapeutics, Ceregene, Inc., Chelsea Therapeutics; Diana Helis Henry Medical Research Foundation, Serono Inc., Huntington9s Disease Society of America, Huntington Study Group, Impax Pharmaceuticals, Ipsen Limited, Lundbeck Research USA, Inc.
What do computer scientists do?: a survey of CS and non-CS liberal arts faculty

We asked all of the liberal arts faculty who advise undergraduates on course selection at the 14 colleges in the Associated Colleges of the Midwest a series of questions regarding their perceptions of the personality traits of Computer Science (CS) students, topics they think are covered in CS classes, and their overall impressions of CS. Our goal was to assess empirically the hypotheses that (1) many non-CS faculty do not really know what computer science is, and (2) many non-CS faculty are unaware of the differences between CS and Information Technology (IT). We received over 250 survey responses, which revealed that, among non-CS faculty, only 9% disagree or are neutral that CS should even be part of a liberal arts curriculum, but 32% think CS students learn to administer computers and computer networks, while 34% believe that CS students are taught to use Microsoft products in the classroom. However, over 95% of non-CS faculty also recognize the importance of both programming and algorithms to the study of computer science. The overall data suggests that a majority of non-CS faculty in the Associated Colleges of the Midwest have a a basic understanding of CS, while the remainder have an overly broad definition of CS (i.e. they think that CS includes IT).