cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Food reinforcement and habituation to food are processes related to initiation and cessation of eating.

Abstract An individual bout of eating involves cues to start eating, as well as cues to terminate eating. One process that determines initiation of eating is food reinforcement. Foods with high reinforcing value are also likely to be consumed in greater quantities. Research suggests both cross-sectional and prospective relationships between food reinforcement and obesity, food reinforcement is positively related to energy intake, and energy intake mediates the relationship between food reinforcement and obesity. A process related to cessation of eating is habituation. Habituation is a general behavioral process that describes a reduction in physiological or affective response to a stimulus, or a reduction in the behavioral responding to obtain a stimulus. Repeated exposure to the same food during a meal can result in habituation to that food and a reduction in consumption. Habituation is also cross-sectionally and prospectively related to body weight, as people who habituate slower consume more in a meal and are more overweight. Research from our laboratory has shown that these two processes independently influence eating, as they can account for almost 60% of the variance in ad libitum intake. In addition, habituation phenotypes show reliable relationships with reinforcing value, such that people who habituate faster also find food less reinforcing. Developing a better understanding of cues to start and stop eating is fundamental to understanding how to modify eating behavior. An overview of research on food reinforcement, habituation and food intake for people with a range of weight status and without eating disorders is provided, and ideas about integrating these two processes that are related to initiation and termination of a bout of eating are discussed.
Mercury distribution and speciation in historically contaminated soils of the Isonzo River Plain (NE Italy)

Mercury (Hg) mining has negatively impacted the environmental quality of the entire Isonzo/Soca River basin (NE Italy and NW Slovenia), which suffers from a high degree of contamination. This study aims to expand the knowledge on Hg distribution in soils, assess the degree of contamination and apply statistical methods for management purposes. The Hg speciation in soils and the determination of gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) could be useful for an environmental risk assessment of the area. Surface and subsurface soil samples (n = 262) were collected for total Hg and selective sequential speciation (n = 36) following the ISO (2005) guidance for the determination of the pedo-geochemical background and background values for inorganic and organic substances in soils. Total Hg was measured according to the US-EPA 7473, and speciation was conducted following the five-step method proposed by Bloom et al. (Anal Chim Acta 479:233–248, 2003). GEM was measured during field-work operations. Statistical analysis was performed in order to have a preliminary evaluation of the whole dataset and distinguish the pedo-geochemical areas and differences between surface and subsurface Hg background levels for management purposes using EXCEL™ and PAST statistical programs. Total Hg concentrations ranged from the natural background (< 0.06 mg kg−1) to 41.0 mg kg−1, and contamination was widespread (60% of the samples were classified as “highly to extremely contaminated”) along the whole river basin at variable distances from the river banks. Hg speciation indicated that mostly insoluble mineral bound species (such as cinnabar and meta-cinnabar) prevail, whereas the presence of bioaccessible forms was negligible. In the atmosphere, GEM concentrations were mostly lower than 3.0 ng m−3, which is close to the background value reported for the Mediterranean area, and consequently, local inhabitants are not at risk through inhalation pathways. The results showed that soils of the Isonzo/Soca River basin are contaminated and that the contamination is not restricted to the river banks. Mercury is mostly present in a tightly bound mineral fraction, i.e. cinnabar (mostly insoluble), whilst the presence of bioaccessible forms (e.g. stomach-acid soluble) and GEM were almost negligible. The limits set by Italian law for total Hg in soils are often exceeded, thus creating the necessity to apply a risk assessment evaluation. In this case, the results of Hg speciation could replace the total Hg value in the generally accepted exposure pathway (i.e. ingestion, inhalation and dermal absorption).
Physical activity behaviors and cognitions of parents of preschoolers (1021.6)

This study examined PA behaviors, cognitions, barriers, and strategies for coping with barriers by 137 parents of preschoolers via survey (n=137) and focus groups (n=23). Parents spent 4.2±2.2 SD d...
Earlier harvest and drying of soybean seed within intact pods maintains seed quality

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed quality (viability and vigor) is critical to seed producers, emphasizing the need to maximize the quality of the harvested seeds. Currently, soybean seeds are harvested at a moisture content of ≤ 160 g kg -1 , similar to the moisture content of harvested soybean grain. However, soybean seed quality peaks at physiological maturity (PM). Allowing soybean seeds to desiccate in the field increases vulnerability to seed deterioration, disease, and harvest losses. Early harvest of soybean seeds and drying within intact pods might maintain seed quality. Our research examined the effect of maturity stage (green-, yellow-, or brown-pod), drying temperature (27°C ± 2, 31°C ± 2, or 41°C ± 2), and pod integrity (pod intact or removed) on soybean seed quality. Seeds were harvested in 2009 and 2010 and dried within stacked tray driers. Drying podded, yellow-pod maturity seeds at ambient temperature (27°C ± 2) protected seeds from rapid desiccation and seeds exhibited similar seed quality characteristics as those harvested at brown-pod maturity stage. A drying temperature of 41°C ± 2 greatly reduced seed quality at both levels of pod integrity for immature harvested seeds (green-pod). Harvesting soybeans at the yellow-pod stage has the greatest potential for
PHARMACOLOGICAL MODULATION OF FORMATION OF LONG-TERM MEMORY

Evidence is now strong that a series of biochemical steps, including the synthesis of proteins is required for the synthesis of long-term memories, but other processes can modulate the formulation of memories. Schemes of memory formation involving several stages have been proposed and specific mechanisms have been hypothesized to account for these stages. Evidence supporting the existence of such stages has been obtained. The hypothesis that protein synthesis is required for formation of memory has stimulated much research and several recent reviews. But many treatments and agents that have been found to affect the formation of memory cannot be incorporated directly into this sequence of presumed basic processes. While this and other reasons have led some investigators to question or even abandon the hypothesized basic sequence, other investigators have taken up the concept that modulatory processes exist as well as basic ones. That is, the processes required for formation and expression of memory take place within a complex bodily environment where other systems or processes can influence or modulate those that participate directly in the formation of memory. This report considers explicitly the concept of modulation of memory formation.
Singularly perturbed algorithms for dynamic average consensus

This paper proposes two continuous-time dynamic average consensus algorithms for networks with strongly connected and weight-balanced interaction topologies. The proposed algorithms, termed 1st-Order-Input Dynamic Consensus (FOI-DC) and 2nd-Order-Input Dynamic Consensus (SOI-DC), respectively, allow agents to track the average of their dynamic inputs within an O(e)-neighborhood with a pre-specified rate. The only requirement on the set of reference inputs is having continuous bounded derivatives, up to second order for FOI-DC and up to third order for SOI-DC. The correctness analysis of the algorithms relies on singular perturbation theory for non-autonomous dynamical systems. When dynamic inputs are offset from one another by static values, we show that SOI-DC converges to the exact dynamic average with no steady-state error. Simulations illustrate our results.
Phenomenology and epidemiology of panic disorder.

BACKGROUND: Panic disorder is a common and severe psychiatric disorder. The estimated current prevalence rate for panic disorder is 1% to 2% of the adult population. Panic disorder is commonly accompanied by major depression, substance use disorders, and other anxiety disorders. Female gender, low socioeconomic status, and anxious childhood temperament are common risk factors for panic disorder. Panic disorder can produce marked distress and impairment and is associated with significant suicide risk. Panic disorder appears to increase risk for all-cause mortality because it may increase risk for cardiovascular disease. Language: en
The Resource-worthiness of Environmental Responsibility: A Resource-based Perspective

Due to the public/private funding debate and their social and physical presence in the community, the most visible touch-points for environmental responsibility (ER) are arguably seen among public assembly facilities. However, while cost savings and perceptual benefits are considered the most salient outcomes of ‘going green’, little attention has been paid to the resource-worthiness of ER. Applying facility manager perceptions to the Resource-based View of the Firm (RBV), various ER impacts and outcomes were assessed. The RBV dimensions were theorized to influence stakeholder and local impacts, the outcomes of which are image enhancement and economic reward. The structural model results confirm our assertions; however, not all paths were in the hypothesized directions. The results show that as a resource, ER is perceived as valuable and to a lesser extent, rare, by facility managers, but it may not necessarily substitute for other organizational resources. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Estimating the residual value of alternate bald eagle nests: Implications for nest protection standards

For over 30 years, bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) nests and nest trees have been managed using a combination of spatial buffers and time-of-year restrictions. Most management standards include the protection of nests currently in use as well as alternate nests and trees that have lost nests. Protection is extended to alternate nest structures under the assumption that they provide value to the breeding population. However, the notion that these structures hold enough residual value to warrant the cost of their protection has not been fully explored. I used nest histories (n > 2,250) from a long-term (1962–2011) dataset collected in the lower Chesapeake Bay to evaluate the relationship between management costs and residual value across the range of management scenarios currently in use. I used a joint, multistrata, live-recapture/dead-recovery model in Program MARK to estimate probabilities of annual survival for active and alternate nests and transition probabilities between active and alternate nests. My primary objective was to assess the residual biological value of alternate nests and trees relative to the management costs required to protect them. I estimated the per capita management costs and the residual value of alternate nests and trees. Survival rates were 0.902 ± 0.007 (mean ± SE) and 0.703 ± 0.017 for active and alternate nests, respectively. Of 1,163 alternate nests, 352 (30.3%) were determined to be re-used within 5 years. However, the likelihood of re-use declined with time. Most re-used nests were re-used in the first year (76.4%), with virtually all (98.6%) being re-used in the first 3 years. Only 9.9% (168 of 1,699) of trees that had lost nests were re-used within the first 10 years. Nests were rebuilt in 32% (equating to 3.1% re-use) of re-used trees in the first year and in 71.4% of these trees in the first 3 years. Implementation of current national management guidelines resulted in 2.35 nest equivalents of management cost for each active nest in the population. The residual value and cost functions diverged over time such that the return on social investment diminishes over the management periods. The cost-to-benefit relationship is particularly poor when the protection of alternate nests is extended beyond 3 years and when protection is extended to trees that have lost nests. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
Characteristics and Determinants of Adiposity in Pediatric Cancer Survivors

Background: Adiposity and the diseases associated with it, including cardiovascular disease, are emerging long-term complications of pediatric cancer survivors. Direct evaluations of adiposity and comparisons to contemporary controls that can differentiate recent trends in obesity from cancer-related treatments and sequelae are limited. Methods: We evaluated demographic, treatment, lifestyle, and endocrine factors at the time of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry testing in 170 non-Hispanic white survivors and 71 sibling controls, and compared three measures of adiposity [body mass index (BMI), total body fat, and trunk fat]. For the survivors alone, we determined factors independently associated with BMI and body fat. Results: Survivors were at 12 years since diagnosis; 58% had leukemia or lymphoma. BMI did not differ between groups. Among males, body fat was greater in survivors than in controls (25.8% versus 20.7%; P = 0.007), as was trunk fat (26.7% versus 21.3%; P = 0.008). Total or trunk fat did not differ among females. Cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and television viewing hours were higher among male survivors than in controls. Independent factors associated with higher BMI and total and trunk fat included any cranial radiation and television viewing hours, whereas prior treatment with cyclophosphamide was associated with lower BMI and body fat measures. Conclusions: Compared with siblings, male survivors have greater body fat and metabolic risks. Cranial irradiation and television hours are important risk factors for adiposity in pediatric cancer survivors. Impact: Pediatric cancer survivors should be carefully monitored for cardiovascular risk factors and sedentary lifestyles. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(8); 2013–22. ©2010 AACR.
APT: the phase I tool for HST cycle 12

In the continuing effort to streamline our systems and improve service to the science community, the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is developing and releasing, APT - The Astronomer’s Proposal Tool as the new interface for Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Phase I and Phase II proposal submissions for HST Cycle 12. APT, was formerly called the Scientist's Expert Assistant (SEA), which started as a prototype effort to try and bring state of the art technology, more visual tools and power into the hands of proposers so that they can optimize the scientific return of their programs as well as HST. Proposing for HST and other missions, consists of requesting observing time and/or archival research funding. This step is called Phase I, where the scientific merit of a proposal is considered by a community based peer-review process. Accepted proposals then proceed thru Phase II, where the observations are specified in sufficient detail to enable scheduling on the telescope. In this paper, we will present our concept and implementation plans for our Phase I development and submission tool, APT. More importantly, we will go behind the scenes and discuss why it's important for the Science Policies Division (SPD) and other groups at the STScI to have a new submission tool and submission output products. This paper is an update of the status of the HST Phase I Proposal Processing System that was described in the published paper “A New Era for HST Phase I Development and Submission.”
Discrimination of short time intervals by the human observer.

For time intervals in the 150–1500 ms range, the difference-discrimination thresholds are about 5%. The value of this Weber fraction varies somewhat depending whether the stimulus modality is vision, hearing or touch. Thresholds are higher when a time interval signaled in one modality has to be compared with one in another, and also when two different modalities are used to delineate a single time interval, as well as when onset and offset are in the same modality but signaled to opposite cortical hemispheres. There is a prominent practice effect. This effect was used to show that there is complete transfer of training between the two visual hemispheres. These findings imply that the time-discrimination mechanism is not located at an early stage of visual processing. If there is a single central time-discrimination apparatus, the observed intermodal differences must relate to the relative ease of access to it via different modalities. The mechanism involved needs elucidating. Counting of spikes or internal time modules would seem to be too simplistic a concept; there is still a need for a process in which the duration of a just concluded presentation and an internally stored interval duration can be compared.
Models of Synchrotron X-Rays from Shell Supernova Remnants

The diffusive shock acceleration process can accelerate particles to a maximum energy depending on the shock speed and age and on any competing loss processes on the particles. The shock waves of young supernova remnants can easily accelerate electrons to energies in excess of 1 TeV, where they can produce X-rays by the synchrotron process. I describe a detailed calculation of the morphology and spectrum of synchrotron X-rays from supernova remnants. Remnants are assumed to be spherical and in the Sedov evolutionary phase, though the results are insensitive to the detailed dynamics. The upstream magnetic field is assumed uniform; downstream it is assumed to be compressed but not additionally turbulently amplified. In all cases, spectra begin to depart from power laws somewhere in the optical to UV range and roll off smoothly through the X-ray band. I show that simple approximations for the electron emissivity are not adequate; a full convolution of the individual electron synchrotron emissivity with a calculated electron distribution at each point in the remnant is required. Models limited by the finite shock age, by synchrotron or inverse Compton losses on electrons, or by escape of electrons above some energy have characteristically different spectral shapes, but within each class, models resemble one another strongly and can be related by simple scalings. The images and spectra depend primarily on the remnant age, the upstream magnetic field strength, and the level of magnetic turbulence near the shock in which the electrons scatter. In addition, images depend on the viewing or aspect angle between the upstream magnetic field and the line of sight. The diffusion coefficient is assumed to be proportional to particle energy (or mean free path proportional to gyroradius), but I investigate the possibility that the proportionality constant becomes much larger above some energy, corresponding to an absence of long-wavelength MHD waves. Models producing similar spectra may differ significantly in morphology, which allows for possible discriminations. I parameterize the model spectra in terms of a slope at 4 keV and a factor by which the X-ray flux density at that energy falls below the extrapolated radio spectrum. Synchrotron radiation may contribute significantly to the X-ray emission of remnants up to several thousand years old.
Response to “Reclaiming the Progressivist Agenda” by Martin Barlosky

Let me first express my appreciation and delight for the honor of being included in such distinguished company as Michael Apple and Richard Rorty and for the opportunity to take part in this dialogue. I also want to thank Doctor Barlosky for the fair and careful reading he has, for the most part, given my book. The reservation I have about his reading has to do with his apparent surprise at some of what I have to say in my book:
Prenatal Diagnosis and Successful Outcome in Neonate of Aorto‐Left Ventricle Tunnel

Aorto-left ventricular tunnel (ALVT) is an abnormal congenital communication between the ascending aorta and the left ventricle. Prenatal diagnosis is rare and can be misinterpreted as aortic insufficiency on fetal echocardiogram. We present a case of ALVT diagnosed in a fetus who underwent successful early neonatal surgical repair.
The Inverse Design of Internally Cooled Turbine Blades

Nouvelle methode pour la conception inverse et l'analyse d'aubes de turbines a refroidissement interne. L'utilisateur de cette technique peut choisir la temperature et le flux de chaleur en chaque point de la surface externe du profil aerodynamique de la turbine en utilisant les criteres de son choix (contrainte thermique, disponibilite de l'ecoulement de refroidissement, effets aerodynamiques sur le champ d'ecoulement)
Development of large flow rate, robust, passive micro check valves for compact piezoelectrically actuated pumps

Abstract A robust passive high frequency high pressure micro check valve was developed for piezoelectrically actuated pumps. A novel cross-patterned microvalve flap is used to increase the valve’s structural stiffness with pressures up to 10 MPa. A mechanical valve stopper prevents valve-flap failure under extreme high pressure. The valve-flap is also designed to work at frequency larger than 10,000 Hz. The valve-flap was fabricated with electroformed nickel on silicon substrate. Deep RIE etching was used to fabricate the valve channels in the silicon substrate. The whole valve weighs 0.2 g including packaging. The microvalve flow rate (water) is measured to be 18 cm3/s under a pressure difference of 50 psi. The microvalve was integrated with a compact piezoelectric pump and produced pressure of 350 psi when operated at 10 kHz frequency.
Matching mcnary electrical characteristics with Bonneville transmission system

Low-reactance powerhouse equipment would increase costs for the McNary Dam installation by $3,200,000. Combining cost analysis with network analyzer studies, however, showed that this increase would be more than offset by transmission-line savings. Over-all savings of $7,000,000 are estimated.
Valgus alignment and lateral compartment knee osteoarthritis: a biomechanical paradox or new insight into knee osteoarthritis?

The paper by Felson and colleagues (1) in this issue reports that valgus malalignment increases the risk of knee osteoarthritis (OA) x-ray progression, and incidence of lateral cartilage damage. Furthermore the paper suggests that even a relatively slight valgus alignment may cause lateral compartment osteoarthritis (OA), in part, by increasing the risk of meniscal damage. Given that the major percentage of the ambulatory load during walking is transferred to the medial compartment of the knee even for knees with slight valgus alignment, this study raises some important questions regarding the role of static frontal plane alignment and more specifically of ambulatory forces in the natural course of knee OA. Does this study present a possible biomechanical paradox or do these results point to the need for a deeper understanding of the role of ambulatory load in the pathomechanics of knee OA? This editorial will address this potential paradox by examining the role of mechanical factors in OA across scales ranging from full body ambulation to cell biology.
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy of tripeptides adsorbed on colloidal silver

Abstract Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy has been used to characterize the interactions of Gly-Phe-Gly, Gly-Phe-Phe, Gly-Gly-Phe, Gly-Tyr-Gly and Trp-Gly-Gly with colloidal silver. The surface interactions of these tripeptides are similar to those of dipeptides. In general, the peptides deprotonate upon adsorption and interact with the surface through the amine group, but not the carboxylate group. Tyrosyl residues deprotonate to tyrosinate and interact with the surface through the phenolic oxygen. The presence of a hydrophobic third residue causes the tripeptides to adsorb more readily than the corresponding dipeptides. When the side chain of the third residue is not bulky, as in Gly, the interactions of the second residue's side chain with the surface are enhanced. The tripeptides studied apparently do not adopt conformations in which non-adjacent residues interact with the surface, although such conformers are observed for adsorbed tetra- and pentapeptide enkephalins. These results provide the basis for understanding the influence of chain length, steric hindrance and local hydrophobicity on the interactions of peptides with metal surfaces.
Positivity-preserving WENO schemes with constrained transport for ideal magnetohydrodynamic equations

A novel positivity-preserving flux limiting technique is developed for finite difference WENO schemes to solve the idea magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations. The key challenges in applying such methods to ideal MHD are not only maintaining the positivity of density and pressure but also controlling divergence errors in the magnetic field. These two requirements are fulfilled by two steps: first implementing positivity-preserving flux limiter on the base WENO solver and then correcting the magnetic field and the total energy by a high-order constrained transport approach that is based on evolving the magnetic potential. Several 1D, 2D and 3D numerical examples are presented to verify the order of accuracy on smooth test problems and to demonstrate the importance and efficiency to maintain the positivity of the solution of test problems including low-beta plasma flows.
Succinylcholine induced hyperkalemia and cardiac arrest death related to an EEG study.

Summary: Changes in EEGs during cardiac arrest have been described in detail by many authors; however, mortality because of an EEG has never been reported. The authors report the case of a patient who developed cardiac arrest causally related to administration of succinylcholine for reduction of excessive amounts of myogenic artifact during an EEG. This case indicates the need for caution when doing an EEG study in an intensive care unit setting.
The Application Of Transmission Electron Microscopy To The Study Of Microstructures In Linbo 3 Optical

The basic principles of Transmission Electron Microscopy are outlined and examples of microstructures observed in LiNbO 3 , waveguides reported. Defects present in the waveguides may have significant effects on their waveguiding ability. Various speculative arguments are suggested for the influence of these defects on the waveguide.
Effects of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) upon free amino acid levels of plasma and tissues.

Abstract 1. 1. The concentrations of ten individual free amino acids were measured microbiologically in plasma, and in muscle, liver, and kidney tissues after the administration of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) to normal and hypophysectomized rats. 2. 2. The injection of ACTH into normal rats produced a small and transitory increase of free amino acids in plasma and muscle. In liver, only lysine increased significantly. The rise in amino acid levels of kidney tissue was relatively large and prolonged, suggesting that the frequently observed increase in urinary excretion of amino acids following ACTH administration is associated with changes in the free amino acid levels of kidney tissue. 3. 3. The administration of ACTH to rats hypophysectomized only 60 hr. previously produced no increase in plasma or tissue amino acid levels.
Early cell adhesion events differ between osteoporotic and non-osteoporotic osteoblasts

In osteoporosis, the regenerative capacity of bone is compromised, which may involve altered osteoblast (OB) activity. This could be attributed to an inappropriate synthesis and assembly of an extracellular matrix (ECM), altered cell adhesion to the ECM, or be due to inappropriate downstream activation of adhesion-mediated signaling cascades through proteins such as focal adhesion kinase (FAK). The purpose of our study was to compare early adhesion-mediated events using previously described and characterized clinically derived OBs obtained from human patients undergoing major joint arthroplasty for osteoporosis or osteoarthritis. The presence or absence of osteoporosis was established with a radiographic index. Using light microscopy and crystal violet staining, we show that OB cells derived from sites of osteoporosis do not attach and spread as well as non-osteoporotic (OP) OB cells. OP cells initially have a more rounded morphology, and show significantly less (P<0.001) attachment to serum-coated tissue culture plastic over a 24 h time period. Immunofluorescent labeling after 24 h of attachment showed that OP OB focal adhesions (FAs) and stress fibers were less defined, and that the OP cells were smaller and had a more motile phenotype. When normalized protein lysates were Western blotted for phosphotyrosine (PY) a band corresponding to pp125FAK was identified. FAK tyrosine phosphorylation was evident at 6 h in both the OP and non-OP OBs, but decreased or was absent through 24 h in OP OBs. These results suggest early adhesion-mediated events, such as cell adhesion, attachment, and FAK signaling via PY may be altered in OP OBs.
Highly Punctuated Patterns of Population Structure on the X Chromosome and Implications for African Evolutionary History

It is well known that average levels of population structure are higher on the X chromosome compared to autosomes in humans. However, there have been surprisingly few analyses on the spatial distribution of population structure along the X chromosome. With publicly available data from the HapMap Project and Perlegen Sciences, we show a strikingly punctuated pattern of X chromosome population structure. Specifically, 87% of X-linked HapMap SNPs within the top 1% of FST values cluster into five distinct loci. The largest of these regions spans 5.4 Mb and contains 66% of the most highly differentiated HapMap SNPs on the X chromosome. We demonstrate that the extreme clustering of highly differentiated SNPs on the X chromosome is not an artifact of ascertainment bias, nor is it specific to the populations genotyped in the HapMap Project. Rather, additional analyses and resequencing data suggest that these five regions have been substrates of recent and strong adaptive evolution. Finally, we discuss the implications that patterns of X-linked population structure have on the evolutionary history of African populations.
Psychometric functions for pure-tone frequency discrimination

The form of the psychometric function (PF) for auditory frequency discrimination is of theoretical interest and practical importance. In this study, PFs for pure-tone frequency discrimination were measured for several standard frequencies (200–8000 Hz) and levels [35–85 dB sound pressure level (SPL)] in normal-hearing listeners. The proportion-correct data were fitted using a cumulative-Gaussian function of the sensitivity index, d′, computed as a power transformation of the frequency difference, Δf. The exponent of the power function corresponded to the slope of the PF on log(d′)-log(Δf) coordinates. The influence of attentional lapses on PF-slope estimates was investigated. When attentional lapses were not taken into account, the estimated PF slopes on log(d′)-log(Δf) coordinates were found to be significantly lower than 1, suggesting a nonlinear relationship between d′ and Δf. However, when lapse rate was included as a free parameter in the fits, PF slopes were found not to differ significantly from 1, consistent with a linear relationship between d′ and Δf. This was the case across the wide ranges of frequencies and levels tested in this study. Therefore, spectral and temporal models of frequency discrimination must account for a linear relationship between d′ and Δf across a wide range of frequencies and levels.
A fast and efficient algorithm for the Fisher exact test

which has the product of two binomial coefficients in the numerator and a binomial coefficient in the denominator. It is efficient, therefore, to have a computer subroutine for calculating a binomial coefficient. The computation of a factorial (call it y !) is very timeconsuming, and for y > 33 the result is > 10 8 , a number larger than can typically be accommodated by microcomputers. We can avoid the necessity of computing three factorials for each binomial coefficient (i.e., nine for the Fisher exact test probability) by calculating the binomial coefficient N! X!(N-X)! n as
Electron paramagnetic resonance studies of spin trapping of the primary neutral radicals formed in γ-irradiated methanol

Abstract The primary neutral radicals in γ-irradiated liquid methanol at 194°K have been spin trapped with phenyl- t -butyl nitrone. The principal primary radicals are CH 2 OH and CH 3 O. In contrast to earlier work, these radicals are formed with an initial ratio of CH 2 OH/CH 3 O ≈ 1.5 which agrees with gas phase mass spectrometric results. H atoms are also spin trapped although their apparent yield is several times lower than that of the other radicals. In methanol glass at 77°K only CH 2 OH becomes spin trapped upon warming.
Determination of the properties of delay-line coaxial cables☆

Abstract An extension to a coaxial cable time-delay calibration technique is presented. The technique yields sub-nanosecond precision for values of cable delay times and provides simple measures of cable attenuation and dispersion. The influences of cable attenuation and dispersion on “machine time” are described.
Medically attended pediatric influenza during the resurgence of the Victoria lineage of influenza B virus

Summary Objectives During the 2002–2003 season, a new variant of influenza B co-circulated with influenza A viruses. This study examines the characteristics and outcomes of children with influenza A and B virus infection vs. other acute respiratory illnesses. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed on children with laboratory-confirmed influenza infection, and influenza negative acute respiratory illnesses that prompted a hospital visit. Results Children with influenza were more often previously healthy and presenting with upper respiratory symptoms, while influenza negative patients typically had underlying medical conditions, and lower respiratory tract disease. Children with influenza B were older, were more likely to be in school, and presented with myositis more frequently than those with influenza A. A third of children with influenza A, and 42% with influenza B required hospitalization. The highest hospitalization rates were in infants under one year. No healthy children, and only 15% of those with chronic medical problems, had received influenza vaccine. Vaccine efficacy was estimated to be 82.6%. Conclusions Most children with influenza were previously healthy. Overall, a third of children with influenza required hospitalization. Influenza A and B were clinically indistinguishable, except for older age and higher incidence of myositis in patients with influenza B. Influenza vaccine coverage in both healthy and high-risk children was low.
Functional Interaction between Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 gD and HVEM Transiently Dampens Local Chemokine Production after Murine Mucosal Infection

Herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM) is one of two principal receptors mediating herpes simplex virus (HSV) entry into murine and human cells. It functions naturally as an immune signaling co-receptor, and may participate in enhancing or repressing immune responses depending on the natural ligand used. To investigate whether engagement of HVEM by HSV affects the in vivo response to HSV infection, we generated recombinants of HSV-2(333) that expressed wild-type gD (HSV-2/gD) or mutant gD able to bind to nectin-1 (the other principal entry receptor) but not HVEM. Replication kinetics and yields of the recombinant strains on Vero cells were indistinguishable from those of wild-type HSV-2(333). After intravaginal inoculation with mutant or wild-type virus, adult female C57BL/6 mice developed vaginal lesions and mortality in similar proportions, and mucosal viral titers were similar or lower for mutant strains at different times. Relative to HSV-2/gD, percentages of HSV-specific CD8+ T-cells were similar or only slightly reduced after infection with the mutant strain HSV-2/gD-Δ7-15, in all tissues up to 9 days after infection. Levels of HSV-specific CD4+ T-cells five days after infection also did not differ after infection with either strain. Levels of the cytokine IL-6 and of the chemokines CXCL9, CXCL10, and CCL4 were significantly lower in vaginal washes one day after infection with HSV-2/gD compared with HSV-2/gD-Δ7-15. We conclude that the interaction of HSV gD with HVEM may alter early innate events in the murine immune response to infection, without significantly affecting acute mortality, morbidity, or initial T-cell responses after lethal challenge.
Twenty-four-hour preservation of the canine heart.

Abstract Successful heterotopic transplantation of the canine heart after 24 hr of preservation was achieved by using a simple method developed from well-proved methods of kidney preservation and incorporating hypothermia (6°C), pulsatile flow, and a modified cryoprecipitated plasma as perfusate. It appears that, with continuous pulsatile perfusion of the heart, viability can be defined on the basis of changes in perfusion pressure; in our system of preservation, a final perfusion pressure greater than 60% of the initial pressure is indicative of unsatisfactory preservation. The ultimate test of adequate preservation is orthotopic transplantation, without which function cannot be adequately measured.
Leadership lessons for the business community: strategies to maintain prosperity during a recession

This study takes an empirical look on recessions over the past 50 years, (excluding the current recession). The factors identified for study are based upon a theoretical framework established by the work of Jim Collins and the importance of Level 5 leadership. A binary logistical regression analysis is used to estimate models that predict 1 survival with relatively healthy financials 2 failure specifically during a recession 3 thriving prosperity immediately after a recession. The model for predicting survival overall correctly and the model for predicting survival during a recession correctly predicted between 92% and 97% of the cases. The model for predicting thriving success after a recession correctly predicted 63.5% of the cases. The article also discusses the relevance of this information compared to the bankruptcy prediction literature, as well as practical implications for business people as they make strategic decisions before, during, and after recession periods.
Comparison of liquid chromatography, capillary electrophoresis and super-critical fluid chromatography in the determination of Losartan potassium drug substance in Cozaar® tablets

Reversed phase liquid chromatography, micellar electrokinetic chromatography, and packed column supercritical fluid chromatography were used to measure the amount of Losartan Potassium drug substance in pharmaceutical tablets. Tablet extract samples were analyzed and results were used to compare accuracy, precision, and linearity of calibration of the instrumental techniques. All three techniques have satisfactory precision (less than 1% RSD) and accuracy to be used for the analysis of the drug substance in tablets and the advantages of each technique are discussed.
MRI catheter guidance and steering of vascular procedures with a reduced heating risk.

Bringing diagnostic or therapeutic devices to a target tissue via vascular inserted catheters has been the mainstay of interventional radiology, vascular surgery, and interventional cardiology since the 1930s (1). Catheter technology has dramatically improved over time, a result of using novel mechanical engineering and materials science, leading to a variety of application-specific kits. There are, however, three issues that limit catheter applications and affect procedure duration, outcomes, and the number and severity of complications (2). The first issue is visualization of catheter position and orientation. The second is visualization of tissues that surround the catheter during various stages of the procedure. The third issue is improved catheter steering, because catheters are manipulated by hand motion occurring at large (1.2–1.6 m) distances from the catheter distal tip. For catheter position and orientation visualization, the classic imaging modality of X-ray fluoroscopy, has many advantages, such as a high-temporal update and a strong contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) between catheters and the vascular background (2). There are also a number of disadvantages: shadowing effects when multiple catheters are in proximity; interference from obstructing highly absorptive tissues, such as bones; the availability of projection views only, lacking depth localization; and a radiation dose to both patient and clinician. In addition, during navigation in small vessels, if the surrounding vascular bed is not well seen, repeated ionic-contrast injection is required. Finally, the interventional staff wears heavy lead aprons, which contributes to a high incidence of back pain. The early 1990s saw the introduction of non–X-ray based techniques to track catheter position. The most widely used navigational tools are based on electromagnetic (EM) methods. These can either be magnetic (3,4) or electrical (5). Using these systems significantly reduced the radiation dose during navigation and treatment and dramatically improved the three-dimensional (3D) visualization of catheter shape and its spatial localization.
Some observations on titrimetric methods for the determination of platinum

Abstract Two titrimetric methods for the determination of platinum reported in the literature were examined and found unsuitable. One was the precipitation of Pt(IV) with ferrocyanide, titrating the excess ferrocyanide with Ce(IV). The second method was a complexometric method.
Effect of Pituitary Adrenotropic Hormone on Lymphoid Tissue.

SummaryInjection of pure pituitary adrenotropic hormone into CBA strain mice produces a decrease in weight of the inguinal, axillary and mesenteric nodes, and of the thymus. The spleen did not show a weight decrease.
Comparison of Two Approaches to Behavioral Observation Audiometry

Thirty children below the age of six years were tested using two observers in behavioral observation audiometry (BOA). Observer 1 knew which sounds were being presented to the child; Observer 2 did...
Book Review Essays

Gender Relations in China: Gender and Power in Rural North China. Ellen R. Judd. Gender Relations in China: Engendering China. Women, Culture, and the State. Christina K. Gilmartin, Gail Hershatter, Lisa Rofel, and Tyrene White, eds.
Satellite formation flight and realignment maneuver demonstration aboard the International Space Station

The Synchronized Position Hold Engage and Reorient Experimental Satellites (SPHERES), developed by the MIT Space Systems Laboratory, enable the maturation of control, estimation, and autonomy algorithms for distributed satellite systems, including the relative control of spacecraft required for satellite formation flight. Three free-flyer microsatellites are currently on board the International Space Station (ISS). By operating under crew supervision and by using replenishable consumables, SPHERES creates a risk-tolerant environment where new high-risk yet high-payoff algorithms can be demonstrated in a microgravity environment. Through multiple test sessions aboard the ISS, the SPHERES team has incrementally demonstrated the ability to perform formation flight maneuvers with two and three satellite formations. The test sessions aboard the Space Station include evaluation of coordinated maneuvers which will be applicable to interferometric spacecraft formation missions. The satellites are deployed as a formation and required to rotate around a common center about a given axis, mimicking an interferometer. Various trajectories are then implemented to point the synthetic aperture in a different orientation by changing the common axis of revolution. Observation-time optimizing synchronization strategies and fuel balancing/fuel optimizing trajectories are discussed, compared and evaluated according to resulting mission duration and potential scientific output.
Prospects of vaccines for medically important fungi: A vaccine against coccidioidomycosis is justified and attainable

Coccidioides is a fungal pathogen of humans which can cause a life-threatening respiratory disease in immunocompetent individuals. Recurrent epidemics of coccidioidal infections in Southwestern United States has raised the specter of awareness of this soil-borne microbe, particularly among residents of Arizona and Southern California, and has galvanized research efforts to develop a human vaccine against coccidioidomycosis. In this review, we discuss the rationale for such a vaccine, examine the features of host innate and acquired immune response to Coccidioides infection, describe strategies used to identify and evaluate vaccine candidates, and provide an update on progress toward development of a vaccine against this endemic pathogen.
Phosphorus loading, transport and concentrations in a lake chain: a probabilistic model to compare management options

Phosphorus (P) loading, exports and concentrations of the four lakes of the Yahara chain (Wisconsin, USA) were compared under four load-reduction plans using a model calibrated with 29–33 years of annual data. P mitigation goals must balance reductions in P concentrations in the four lakes and the export from the lake chain to downstream waters. Lake Mendota, the uppermost lake, is most responsive to P load reductions, and benefits diminish downstream. Nonetheless, the greatest reductions in export from the lake chain to downstream waters derive from P load reductions to lakes lower in the chain. The effective grazer Daphnia pulicaria causes large improvements in water quality. Management to maintain populations of D. pulicaria has substantial benefits that augment those from reductions in P loading. Model projections show high variability in water quality and exports under all load-reduction plans. This variability is driven by inter-annual variation in runoff. Thus lake managers and the public should expect ongoing year-to-year variability in water quality, even though P load mitigation will improve water quality on average. Because of high variability from year to year, ongoing monitoring is essential to assess the effects of management of this chain of lakes.
Pneumonectomy for unremitting hemoptysis in unilateral absence of pulmonary artery

Unilateral absence of pulmonary artery is a rare malformation that can present as an isolated lesion or may be associated with other congenital heart defects. Clinical presentation is subtle when the lesion occurs alone, and may include hemoptysis, which results from rupture of abundant bronchial submucosal vessels perfused by enlarged systemic collaterals that supply the affected lung. Pneumonectomy is recommended as definitive treatment in such an adult patient.
Dynamic converters for aerospace use

Experience in aircraft generation systems has been extended to permit the prediction of characteristics in aerospace applications. Important parameters include weight, size, power quality, life, reliability, vibration, acceleration, cooling, and nuclear radiation. Probable future accomplishments are forecast on the basis of current development effort and planning