cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Complexity of hydrologic basins: A chaotic dynamics perspective

Abstract The objective of this study is to examine the dynamic complexity of hydrologic basins using techniques of phase space reconstruction. These non-parametric, model-free techniques which have their basis in the theory of chaotic dynamical systems are advantageous in resurrecting the features of multivariable dynamics solely from one-dimensional timeseries. Dynamic complexity is characterized by two measures directly interpretable as number of active degrees of freedom (dimensionality) and strength of nonlinearity. The analysis is conducted on daily streamflow observations of 408 basins from the Model Parameter Estimation Project (MOPEX) dataset spanning a wide range of climatic, topographic and land surface properties. The results show that the two complexity measures vary considerably across basins; however, their distributions are positively skewed, indicating that most basins exhibit low dimensionality and moderate nonlinearity. By examining how dynamic complexity relate to a set of 15 basin properties, it was found that dynamics dimensionality is primarily related to basin size; precisely larger basins exhibit lower dimensional dynamics. On the other hand, strength of nonlinearity is found to be regulated by the extent of vegetation in land cover. Specifically, basins with limited vegetation cover tend to have more linear dynamics. Furthermore, some observations regarding the presence of chaotic dynamics and the relationship between dynamic complexity and accuracy of prediction are presented. The results of this study have implications and potential relevance to catchment similarity and classification frameworks as well as model selection and extrapolation of model parameters to ungauged basins.
Inhibition of spontaneous tumorigenicity in transgenic mice by modified citrus pectin

3071 Citrus pectin (CP) is a complex, highly branched, plant polysaccharide, which contains a backbone consisting of polygalacturonic acid and side chains consisting of pentose and hexose sugars. We have earlier modified citrus pectin into smaller structure by pH and temperature modification and named it MCP. MCP reduced the metastatic spread of mouse melanoma cells B16 F1, prostate cancer cells Mat-LyLu , breast cancer cells MDA-MB-435 and colon cancer cells LSLiM6 in various animal models. We questioned, whether MCP has only therapeutic effects or also preventive effects on tumor formation in mice. Therefore we selected two transgenic mouse model systems, which produce spontaneous tumors. B6.129-Apc tm1Rak mice carry a chain termination mutation in amino acid 1638 (exon 15) of the Apc gene. Mice homozygous to this mutation are embryonically lethal and heterozygous mice develop multiple colonic polyps, gastrointestinal adenomas and adenocarcinomas. The second transgenic mouse model used for prostate and mammary cancer contained a recombinant gene expressing the simian virus 40 early-region transforming sequences under the regulatory control of the rat prostatic steroid binding protein [C3(1)] gene. The female mice develop mammary tumors and the male offsprings develop prostate tumors. The mice were bred in the Wayne State University animal facility and separated after weaning in groups fed on water or MCP. The mammary tumors were studied after 6 months, and prostatic or intestinal tumors were observed after 8 months. Our results indicate that MCP does not have a preventive action on the growth of spontaneous mammary or prostate cancer, but it reduces the number of tumors of the small intestine significantly.
Geopolitics and the Anglophone Novel, 1890–2011

Introduction: the novel's administrative turn 1. Fiction after liberalism 2. How literature administers 'failed' states 3. The novelistic management of inequality in the age of meritocracy 4. Entrepreneurship and imperial politics in twentieth-century historical fiction 5. Women as economic actors in contemporary and modernist novels Postscript: the literary politics of being well attached Bibliography Index.
Alloys and Superlattices

In recent years, the concepts of band-gap engineering have become widespread especially for their impact on performance modifications of electron devices and for their suggestion of new methods of device operation. This has primarily arisen from the ability to modify material characteristics through alloying and through the use of superlattices and quantum wells to tune energy levels. If there is a single reason for the advent of alloys, it is the advantages that are offered by the tuning of the fundamental energy gaps (between conduction and valence bands) of the material system to some desired value. This single parameter governs the electrical and optical properties through the intrinsic carrier densities and the fundamental absorption edge. As the investigations of semiconductor materials has progressed, studies of the simple elements Si and Ge moved to the more interesting compounds of GaAs, AlAs, etc., and then to alloys of these compounds. Interestingly enough, the use of molecular-beam epitaxy has once again allowed interesting alloys of Si and Ge to be investigated.
Quantitative Assay of Coxiella burnetii in Mice

Experimental data are presented which demonstrate that the complement-fixing antibody response in individual mice can be used for quantitative assay of Coxiella burnetii. The method allows the replacement of a single guinea pig with a single mouse, thus resulting in considerable savings in caging requirements and animal costs.
Energy utilization in the ischemic/reperfused brain.

Publisher Summary Stroke and cardiac arrest are among the leading contributors to mortality and morbidity. Elevated blood glucose levels, as in diabetes, are associated with an increase in ischemic brain injuries and a reduction in the likelihood of functional recovery. Pre-, but not post-, ischemic hyperglycemia exaggerates brain damage in the animal models of cerebral ischemic injury. This outcome has been widely attributed to a rise in lactate production from anaerobic glycolysis, with a concomitant tissue acidosis. It has been assumed that acidosis is toxic to neurons, initiating the dying process. It was therefore disturbing to observe that hyperglycemia reduced the ischemia-evoked release of the excitotoxic amino acids, glutamate and aspartate, which is considered to be among the primary causes of cerebral ischemic injury. This result suggested that hyperglycemia might actually have a cerebroprotective action during the ischemic episode, possibly due to lactate formation in astrocytes, with lactate serving as a source of metabolic energy for neurons, and that the damaging effects of hyperglycemia occur during reperfusion, as the intracellular pH reverts to normal levels. The evidence in support of this suggestion came from the observation that there was a marked increase in brain extracellular free fatty acid levels during the initial minutes of reperfusion, indicative of a sudden increase in phospholipase activation and cell membrane degradation. Future directions for research will involve a detailed examination of mitochondrial function in ischemia/reperfusion brains. This chapter reviews the recent findings on cerebral metabolism in normoxic and ischemic brains exposed to the physiologic and elevated levels of glucose. The role of insulin, plasma levels of which are depleted in many diabetics, in brain metabolism is also discussed.
Gilda: Textual analysis, political economy, and ethnography

Gilda tries to get her dignity back through sex, Johnny through power-the same trophies many of us seek at Yale, the former on couches and the latter in classrooms -Eve Tushnet, editor in chief, Yale Free Press (1999)
Sakurai's Object, V605 Aql and FG Sge: An Evolutionary Sequence Revealed

We have completed a grid of stellar evolution calculations to study the behavior of the born again phenomenon. All our evolutionary sequences begin with a uniform composition 1 M ⊙ star on the pre-main sequence Hayashi phase and end on the white dwarf cooling track. We find a very late thermal pulse occurs in 10 – 15 percent of cases. Our models supply an answer to the question of why the born again stars V4334 Sgr (Sakurai’s Object) and V605 Aql have a significantly shorter evolutionary time scale than the otherwise similar born again star FG Sge. Models with low convective mixing efficiency, η = 10 –4 , first evolve quickly to the AGB, return to the blue, and then evolve more slowly back to the AGB for a second time before finally returning to the white dwarf cooling track. The difference in evolution time scales can then be explained by proposing that Sakurai’s Object is evolving to the AGB for the first time but FG Sge has been observed during its second return to the AGB.
Subclinical coagulopathy following amnioinfusion with hypertonic saline

Abstract Previously reported blood coagulation changes in unselected cases undergoing hypertonic saline amnioinfusion for second-trimester abortion were reviewed and compared with the authors' experience in 22 cases. The majority of cases studied developed laboratory evidence of coagulopathy within hours following infusion although no cases developed bleeding problems. Nearly all studies demonstrated an early postinfusion appearance of fibrin monomer complexes along with depression of platelet count, fibrinogen, and Factor VIII. Fibrin and fibrinogen degradation products also appeared early, and two studies demonstrated a significant drop in plasminogen. Only the author's work demonstrated a significant shortening of euglobulin clot lysis time indicating possible systemic activation of fibrinolysis. All factors exhibited a tendency to return toward normal by 24 to 48 hours after infusion, sometimes even before abortion was completed. Plasma fibrinogen and activated partial thromboplastin times are recommended in evaluating heavy uterine hemorrhage following saline amnioinfusion.
Conflicting clinical trial data: a lesson from albumin

Albumin is a frequently prescribed drug in hospitalized patients, and its effect on clinical outcomes has been scrutinized in recent years. Data from meta-analyses has suggested harm related to albumin therapy in critically ill patients, and new observational data are consistent with these results. However, appropriately powered randomized, controlled trials have shown albumin to be safe in broad groups of critically ill patients. This article will discuss the reasons for differences between observational and controlled trial data, and the implications for future albumin use and clinical research.
Section 5 as Simulacrum

In addition to its remarkable substantive impact, Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act is a provision of enormous expressive and historical importance. But the extent to which the statute is also a symbol has some unrecognized downsides. In the current Shelby County litigation, reviewing a challenge to section 5, much of the argument seems to revolve around a simulacrum of section 5, rather than the statute itself. This simulacrum is much like an editorial cartoonist’s rendering of a political figure, in which particular features take on exaggerated salience. Many elements of the simulacrum have at least the ring of truth, which helps to explain the staying power of the image. But though the cartoon version of the preclearance regime resembles the original, the exaggerated features — including preconceived notions of the obsolescence of the regime’s primary operating system, the extent to which it fosters racial essentialism, and its place within our federalist structure — distort rather than clarify our understanding of the legality of the portions of the Voting Rights Act at issue. This short essay investigates some of the more striking elements of the section 5 simulacrum, contrasting the cartoon vision of section 5 with the more fully contextualized operation of the actual statute.
High-precision AMS radiocarbon measurements of central Arctic Ocean sea waters

Abstract We report on the first sub-5%. precision radiocarbon dataset measured on single targets using accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS). A 13 sample water column profile collected in the Canada Basin (74°N, 150°W, 3850 m water depth) of the central Arctic Ocean in September 1992 has been analyzed in duplicate and the average total precision achieved for the 26 targets is ± 3.2%.. The reproducibility of the 13 paired analyses averages +- 4.8%. as determined by a chi-square fit minimization for a quality factor of unity, and ± 7.8%. using ANOVA. Eliminating two of the 13 paired analyses because of apparent outlier behavior in one of the two analyses comprising the pair results in a total precison of ± 3.2%., a chi-square fit of ± 3.5%., and ANOVA precision of ± 3.5%.. Comparison with a recently published AMS 14 C profile from the same basin suggests these data are accurate as well. Results show that the deep waters of the Canada Basin have a renewal rate of 430 years, in comparison with 250 years estimated for the deep waters of the Eurasian Basin. Although the major requirement of the World Ocean Circulation Experiment (WOCE) for a radiocarbon analysis precision of ± 3 to 4%. for deep water samples can now be met with the AMS technology available at the National Ocean Sciences AMS Facility at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution for single-target analyses, a careful program of duplicate analyses should be included to insure the highest quality in the WOCE Δ 14 C dataset.
Color and Shoot Regrowth of Turf-type Crested Wheatgrass Managed Under Deficit Irrigation

An increased demand on limited water supplies has led to a growing interest in turfgrasses tolerant of lower irrigation regimes. One potential source of droughthardy turfgrass is the perennial Triticeae wheatgrasses. These grasses have thrived in semi-arid regions, mainly through dormancy in the dry periods. However, dormancy is undesirable in residential and commercial settings where irrigation can be applied regularly. In this study we used a line-source gradient of irrigation on seven species of turf-type grasses, with a primary focus on crested wheatgrass. Our objective was to determine what level of irrigation will prevent dormancy in crested wheatgrass, and compare the color and shoot regrowth after mowing between it and the other turfgrass species at different irrigation levels. The crested wheatgrasses did not enter dormancy under the moderate irrigation level of approximately 60% evapotranspiration replacement. Under all irrigation levels, tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass had the highest color ratings, due to genetically darker color. Shoot regrowth differences between the species were minimal, and also indicated dormancy only under the lowest irrigation levels.
Residues in apples and sweet cherries after methyl bromide fumigation

Methyl bromide fumigations are used to treat apples, Malus domestica Borkh, and sweet cherries, Prunus avium (L), before export to Japan. In order to expand existing markets, additional cultivars are being prepared for export to Japan. As part of the approval process, residue analyses must be conducted and residues must be at acceptable levels. Five apple cultivars ('Braeburn,' 'Fuji,' 'Gala,' 'Jonagold,' and 'Granny Smith') were fumigated at 40g m ˇ3 for 2 h at 10 °C, and six sweet cherry cultivars ('Brooks,' 'Garnet,' 'Lapin,' 'Rainier,' 'Sweetheart,' and 'Tulare') were fumigated for 2h with 64g m ˇ3 at 6 °C, 48 g m ˇ3 at 12 °C, 40g m ˇ3 at 17 °C, and 32 g m ˇ3 at 22 °C. Three replicates of fruit from each fumigation were analyzed for methyl bromide and bromide ion residues periodically with time. Methyl bromide residues for both apples and cherries were the highest immediately after fumigation, but rapidly declined so that only 'Braeburn' had residues >8 mgkg ˇ1 after 13 days and, except for 'Lapin,' all cherries were <1 mgkg ˇ1 after seven days. Average bromide ion residues were between 3.3 and 4.9 mg kg ˇ1 among apple cultivars, and between 3.7 and 8.0 mgkg ˇ1 among cherry
Didymella rabiei primary inoculum release from chickpea debris in relation to weather variables in the Pacific Northwest of the United States.

Didymella rabiei, the ascomycete fungus that causes ascochyta blight of chickpea (Cicer arietinum), produces pseudothecia and pycnidia on overwintered chickpea debris. The timing of primary inoculum release from overwintered chickpea debris was investigated in the field using potted susceptible chickpeas as trap plants and debris heavily infested with D. rabiei. Debris was spread in a 1 m2 area in early fall of 2004 and 2005 and the experiment was repeated over two years and replicated at two sites. Primary inoculum was trapped the following spring by placing 27 trap plants adjacent to the overwintered debris at each site for 2–3 days followed by incubation in the greenhouse under conditions to promote infection. Ascochyta blight lesions were counted 2 weeks later. Primary inoculum release began in mid-March, with the majority of lesions associated with rainfall events and recorded during May in all years. Release continued through the beginning of June when the number of lesions on trap plants dropped of...
A reevaluation of the host range and geographical distribution of Claviceps species in the United States.

A listing of host and state reports and distribution maps for 11 taxa of Claviceps occurring in the United States, including C. africana, C. cinerea, C. grohii, C. nigricans, C. paspali, C. pusilla, C. purpurea var. purpurea and var. spartinae, C. tripsaci, C. yanagawensis, and C. zizaniae, was prepared based on literature citations and examination of specimens from herbaria. The occurrence of C. ranunculoides is questioned based on examination of conidia and sclerotia from archived specimens. Collections of C. purpurea var. purpurea from grasses in the Pani-coideae were referred to other Claviceps spp. based on occurrence of macroconidia and micro-conidia. C. purpurea var. purpurea was found on 165 grass species within the continental United States and Alaska. The size of conidia of C. purpurea var. purpurea was found to be relatively stable across host and geographical regions. However, conidia of C. purpurea var. purpurea from hosts in the Aveneae and Meliceae (generally associated with wet habitats) were more variable in size and generally larger than those from other tribes in the Pooideae. Claviceps spp. in the continental United States occurred in diverse habitats, including temperate grasslands of the middle to northern latitudes (C. purpurea var. purpurea, C. nigricans) to the middle to southern latitudes (C. pusilla), coastal habitats (C. purpurea var. spartinae, C. ziza-niae), northern wetlands (C. grohii), southern temperate to subtropical grasslands (C. africana, C. paspali, C. tripsaci, C. yanagawensis), and arid southwestern grasslands (C. cinerea).
Rare Association of Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy and Lymphedema-Distichiasis Syndrome

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide. The pathogenesis is still unknown and newer treatments are being researched. Rarely, it can be associated with other disorders. Its association with hereditary lymphedema has been reported on one occasion but never with lymphedema-distichiasis syndrome. We report a patient with hereditary lymphedema-distichiasis syndrome and immunoglobulin A nephropathy occurring simultaneously.
A Novel Approach for Studying Endogenous Aβ Processing Using Cultured Primary Neurons Isolated from APP Transgenic Mice

Abstract The central component of senile amyloid plaques in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the β-amyloid peptide (Aβ), derived from proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP). In this study, we developed an in vitro model to measure and identify soluble Aβ from primary cortical neurons. Neurons were isolated from mice transgenic for human APP695 containing the K670N, M671L double mutation. We characterized soluble Aβ using Western blot and ELISA assays. We found that the Aβ levels in conditioned media from these neurons were readily detectable and almost five times higher than in CSF. The majority of Aβ in the media was Aβ1-40; however, Aβ1–42 was also detectable. When the neurons were exposed to Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), α1-antichymotrypsin, or α1-antitrypsin, the alterations of soluble Aβ levels were consistent with other models reported. Most importantly, the soluble Aβ in our model was remarkably stable, and aliquots were unchanged after prolonged incubations or repeated freeze/thaw cycles. The Aβ appeared to be monomeric by Western blot analysis. Soluble Aβ coimmunoprecipitated with endogenous mouse apolipoprotein E from the primary cultures. Taken together, our data demonstrated that using a Western blot assay to detect soluble Aβ from transgenic mouse overexpressing APP695 is sensitive, specific, and reliable and provides an accessible model for examining the neuronal metabolism of APP and Aβ.
Theory of low Mach number compressible flow in a channel

The properties of a relatively uncommon regime of fluid dynamics, low Mach number compressible flow are investigated. This regime, which is characterized by an exceptionally large channel aspect ratio L/d ∼ 106 leads to highly subsonic flows in which friction dominates inertia. Even so, because of the large aspect ratio, finite pressure, temperature, and density gradients are required, implying that compressibility effects are also important. Analytical results are presented which show, somewhat unexpectedly, that for forced channel flow, steady-state solutions exist only below a critical value of heat input. Above this value the flow reverses against the direction of the applied pressure gradient causing fluid to leave both the inlet and outlet implying that the related concepts of a steady-state friction factor and heat transfer coefficient have no validity.
Adipose tissue lipoprotein lipase activity in rats with obesity-inducing hypothalamic knife cuts.

Abstract Three experiments examined the effects of obesity-inducing parasagittal hypothalamic knife cuts on adipose tissue lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity in female rats. Knife cuts induced a 4-fold increase in adipose tissue LPL activity. Knife-cut rats with controlled insulin levels were hyperphagic but showed no increase in adipose tissue LPL activity or body weight gain. Prevention of the hyperphagia by food restriction also blocked the changes in LPL activity and weight gain. Finally, exogenous insulin treatment increased adipose tissue LPL activity in the absence of hyperphagia in neurologically-intact rats. We conclude that increased adipose tissue LPL activity may play a permissive role in the development of hypothalamic obesity, with the increase in enzyme activity being secondary to knife-cut-induced hyperinsulinemia.
A whisper of salvation: American psychologists and religion in the popular press.

The advocates of the new psychology that emerged at the end of the 19th century were faced with a need to gain support from a public that was searching for a new basis for social and political order, yet was chary of any science identified with godless materialism. The first generation of American psychologists was faced with the dilemma of defining their approach as distinct from the old psychology while defusing public concern about the materialistic implications of their new science. Many of these new psychologists developed a rhetorical strategy of incorporating religious sentiment into their writing for the popular press. Their strategy emphasized the harmony of the new science with religious faith and stressed the moral qualities of psychological work.
Psychoanalysis and "The Discipline of Love"

Evaluation de la lecture freudienne de la conception poetique de l'experience de l'enfance chez Wordsworth. Examinant la relation mere-enfant decrite au livre II du «Prelude», et rejetant les presupposes de la psychanalyse sur l'enfance, l'A. compare l'interpretation poetique du developpement de la personne aux paradigmes de l'individuation etablis par la recherche feministe actuelle.
A Re-Membering Conversation With Howard Goldstein

Howard Goldstein (1922-2000) was a renowned social work educator and author. He was also my teacher. This article is a re-membering “conversation” between Howard and me, based on papers I wrote in his classes in 1972-73 and his written responses to them. In narrative therapy, remembering conversations acknowledge and privilege contributions of significant people to a person's preferred identity and life story. In this article I celebrate Howard's rich and continuing contributions to my life as a social worker and educator and suggest that these contributions remain vitally relevant to social work practice today.
Protein-RNA and Protein-Protein Recognition by Dual KH1/2 Domains of the Neuronal Splicing Factor Nova-1

Nova onconeural antigens are neuron-specific RNA-binding proteins implicated in paraneoplastic opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia (POMA) syndrome. Nova harbors three K-homology (KH) motifs implicated in alternate splicing regulation of genes involved in inhibitory synaptic transmission. We report the crystal structure of the first two KH domains (KH1/2) of Nova-1 bound to an in vitro selected RNA hairpin, containing a UCAG-UCAC high-affinity binding site. Sequence-specific intermolecular contacts in the complex involve KH1 and the second UCAC repeat, with the RNA scaffold buttressed by interactions between repeats. Whereas the canonical RNA-binding surface of KH2 in the above complex engages in protein-protein interactions in the crystalline state, the individual KH2 domain can sequence-specifically target the UCAC RNA element in solution. The observed antiparallel alignment of KH1 and KH2 domains in the crystal structure of the complex generates a scaffold that could facilitate target pre-mRNA looping on Nova binding, thereby potentially explaining Nova's functional role in splicing regulation.
Experimental verification of an optical beam stabilizing controller

This paper presents experimental verification for a H f stabilizing controller for an optical beam subject to tonal disturbances. The proposed controller forces the power density at all disturbance frequencies below a prescribed level. Furthermore, the effect of significant input saturation on stability and performance is investigated.
Quantifying risks of toxic chemicals to aquatic populations and ecosystems

Abstract The objectives of regulatory practice have evolved from eliminating all risks of pesticides and toxic chemicals to the environment to reducing risks to acceptable levels. This change in philosophy requires the development of methods for quantifying the risks of toxicant exposure to the exposed biota. Ecological risk assessment models that are comparable those used in human health risk assessment have been developed using methods drawn from ecotoxicology, ecology, statistics, and mathematical modeling. Initial applications have shown that the regulation of pesticides and toxic chemicals can be substantially improved through the use of ecological risk assessment.
Adaptive modeling: An intuitive approach for the application of irreversible thermodynamics to multiphase flow simulation

The second law of thermodynamics states that the combined entropy of the system and the environment must increase if a physical process is irreversible. Irreversible thermodynamics describes how this entropy is produced. If applied to multiphase flow simulation, irreversible thermodynamics governs the modeling of interphase mass and heat transfer and the boiling process. In this article the fundament of application is described. The presentation is restricted to one-component systems, and the significance of Onsager's law is emphasized. Adaptive modeling allows the evaluation of kinetic coefficients based on existing constitutive relations. The approach is demonstrated using RELAP5-3D. Effects of the application are discussed by analysis of the flooding experiment FLECHT-SEASET Test 31504.
Second Singlet (S2) State of Fluorescent Agents Pumped by Two-Photon for Deeper Tissue Imaging

The two-photon excitation and rapid relaxation of S2 state to S1 state makes wavelengths of excitation and emission fall in the “tissue optical window”, which can be used for deeper tissue imaging for two-photon microscope.
Unrolling and retiming of stream applications onto embedded multicore processors

In recent years, we have observed the prevalence of stream applications in many embedded domains. Stream applications distinguish themselves from traditional sequential programming languages through well defined independent actors, explicit data communication, and stable code/data access patterns. In order to achieve high performance and low power, scratch pad memory (SPM) has been introduced in today's embedded multicore processors. Programing on SPM based architecture is both challenging and time consuming. In this paper we address the problem of automatic compilation of stream applications onto SPM based embedded multicore processors through unrolling and retiming. In our technique, code overlay and data overlay are implemented to overcome the limited SPM capacity. Smart double buffering and code prefetching are introduced to amortize memory access delays. We evaluated the efficiency of our technique through compiling several stream applications onto the IBM Cell processor and compared their performance with existing approaches.
Thin crystal as a 2d system

Abstract Cleaved thin crystals of Bi2(Te1−1Sx)3 are discussed as a 2D system. Their characteristics are compared to those of the more widely explored system of silicon inversion layers. There are many similarities and some differences, which might disappear when the proper experiment will be performed on both systems. The most basic difference seems to be the low effective mass and long relaxation time for silicon inversion layers and the homogeneity of the thin crystal film especially in field effect devices.
Clinical Update in Cardiac Imaging Including Echocardiography

Volumetric determinations by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging after tetralogy of Fallot repair may more accurately assess significant right ventricular dilation and pulmonary regurgitation to guide timing of pulmonary valve replacement. Recent guidelines by the American and European Societies of Echocardiography have summarized the clinical approach to valvular stenosis. They emphasize aortic stenosis given its high incidence and assessment confounders such as left ventricular function, aortic regurgitation, systemic hypertension, and mitral regurgitation. The applications of 3-dimensional echocardiography have reached transcatheter procedures such as atrial septal closure, mitral valve repair, and aortic valve replacement. It also provides detailed assessment of the mitral valve, cardiac chambers, and can guide pediatric aortic valve repair. The timing of surgery in mitral regurgitation remains controversial, especially when it is asymptomatic with normal left ventricular function. Recent data emphasize the outcome advantage of mitral valve repair in asymptomatic mitral regurgitation when the effective regurgitant orifice area is >40 mm 2 . Transesophageal echocardiography is an established gold standard in the assessment of endocarditis. Multislice computed tomographic imaging has facilitated simultaneous detailed assessment of the cardiac valves and coronary arteries. Recent comparison has shown that these 2 imaging modalities are equivalent and complementary. Tricuspid valve regurgitation associated with mitral disease is common and important. At the time of mitral surgery, moderate or greater tricuspid regurgitation should be corrected, preferably by rigid annuloplasty. Recent evidence also supports tricuspid annuloplasty for an annular diameter >35 mm regardless of regurgitation severity. Although repair is preferred, tricuspid replacement also has acceptable outcomes.
A preliminary analysis of the construct validity of Kerr & Jermier's ‘Substitutes for Leadership’ Scales

Despite the intuitive appeal of Kerr & Jermier's (1978) ‘substitutes for leadership’ constructs, recent studies have provided only mixed support for this conceptualization of leadership. Perhaps the most compelling reason for the mixed findings is the lack of empirical construct validity of the substitutes subscales themselves. Internal consistency reliabilities are presented from 11 samples which indicate that over two-thirds (nine) of the 13 subscales have a median reliability below 0.62. Following this, preliminary factor analyses of the Substitutes for Leadership Scales were conducted in five samples, and an iterative ‘item trimming’ procedure was then undertaken to improve the reliability and conceptual integrity of the original subscales. Even though a total of eight items was dropped from four of the subscales, the reliabilities of those scales which were modified generally stayed the same, and the factor structure was reduced from 16–18 factors for the original scale to 14–15 factors for the reduced scale. In addition, the discriminant validity of the revised version of the substitutes measures and their relationships with Crowne & Marlowe's (1964) social desirability measure were assessed. Suggestions for further improving the construct validity of the Substitutes Scale are then discussed.
BACTERIAL FERMENTATION OF HIGH ALKALINE WASTES FROM IRISH POTATOES

A study was conducted on high alkalinity lye-peeling wastes from Irish potatoes to determine the optimum time and temperature of fermentation, predominant types of bacteria, and handling conditions suitable for fermentation. The optimum temperature for fermentation was 30°C. Both aerobic and anaerobic conditions were suitable for fermentation, but aerobic fermentation at 30-35°C was efficient in reducing the pH below 7.0. Wastes fermented more rapidly when seeded with previously fermented wastes. Starch content decreased in the wastes during fermentation, but total sugars and pectin increased in both nonsterilized and sterilized lots. Dry matter content decreased approximately 1% during fermentation but remained stable in storage. The greatest increase in acidity was due to lactic acid although small changes occurred in other organic acids. The major bacteria found in the fermented wastes were tentatively identified as L. delbrueckii, S. faecium and S. lads.
A novel, general method for the preparation of α,gad̄ifluoro functionalized phosphonates

Abstract The addition reaction of diethyl iododifluoromethylphosphonate to alkenes catalyzed by palladium in the absence of solvent gives the corresponding adducts in good yields at room temperature. A variety of functional groups in the alkenes, including alkyl, trimethylsilyl, hydroxy, epoxy, ketone and ester, are tolerated under the reaction conditions. The reduction of the adducts with nickel chloride and zinc in moist THF provides the title compounds.
A Revision of the Pimplini of Eastern North America (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae)

The Ichneumonidae included in this paper are of the subfamily Pimplinae and constitute the tribes Pimplini (=Ephialtini)[1][1] and Theroniini of Cushman and Rohwer. Being typical pimplines, the petiole is short and broad with its sternum not fused with the tergum and the spiracles at or before its midlength. The areolet is more or less triangular and the ovipositor exserted. These latter two characters are subject to rare exceptions. The genera treated here differ from other Pimplinae in having either the mesopleural suture nearly straight, without the usual sharp bend near its middle or the tarsal claws very large and strong with a large pocket on the mesal side of each and usually also with a large specialized hair that is flattened and curved at the tip (fig. 8). Some genera possess both of these characters. In addition, this group of genera has a robust build, the nervulus broken high above the middle, and the female subgenital plate not strongly developed. The ovipositor is stout, about half as long as the abdomen and has a series of ridges at the end. It may rarely, however, be slightly longer than the abdomen or so short as not to surpass its tip.[2][2] [1]: #fn-1 [2]: #fn-2
Dynamic bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging of the effects of the antivascular agent Combretastatin-A4P (CA4P) on brain tumor xenografts

Combretastatin A-4 (CA4) is a natural product isolated from Combretum caffrum that inhibits tubulin polymerization by binding to the colchicine-binding site. A corresponding water soluble pro-drug (referred to as CA4P), has undergone extensive clinical trials and has been evaluated in pre-clinical studies using multiple modalities. We previously reported a novel assay based on dynamic bioluminescent imaging to assess tumor vascular disruption and now present its application to assessing multiple tumors simultaneously. The current study evaluated the vascular-disrupting activity of CA4P on subcutaneous 9L rat brain tumor xenografts in mice using dynamic bioluminescence imaging. A single dose of CA4P (120 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) induced rapid, temporary tumor vascular shutdown revealed by a rapid and reproducible decrease of light emission from luciferase-expressing 9L tumors following administration of luciferin as a substrate. A time-dependent reduction of tumor perfusion after CA4P treatment was confirmed by immunohistological assessment of the perfusion marker Hoechst 33342 and the tumor vasculature marker CD31. The vasculature showed distinct recovery within 24 h post therapy. Multiple tumors behaved similarly, although a size dependent vascular inhibition was observed. In conclusion, CA4P caused rapid, temporary tumor vascular shutdown and led to reduction of tumor perfusion in rat brain tumor xenografts and the multiple tumor approach should lead to more efficient studies requiring fewer animals and greater consistency.
Management of arteriovenous malformations: A surgical perspective

The management strategies for arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) continue to evolve, spurred by advancing technology and improved understanding of the natural history of these lesions. In general, intervention is reserved for Spetzler-Martin Grade I-III lesions or for those with certain high-risk features. Grade IV-V AVMs, in contrast, are usually managed conservatively. Although multimodality therapy incorporating endovascular and/or radiosurgical techniques is increasingly common, microsurgical removal remains the definitive form of treatment.
The micro dynamics of a budget-cutting process: Modes, models and structure☆

Abstract Data becomes information in a time-dependent, sense-making process. Decision makers engage in dialogue with data to construct meaning. Analysis of the transcript of a budget meeting reveals an intricate micro structure of shifting frames of reference characterizing the decision dialogue. The decision makers' frames of reference conjoin a decision model (Fiscal, Clinical, Political or Strategic) with a mode of analysis (Instrumental or Symbolic). Reasoning takes place as data is interwoven with multiple frames of reference in a process of frame shifting. This observation challenges Herbert Simon's view of rationality and points to the importance of William James' stream of thought as a more adequate account of reasoning in decision dialogue.
Na-Ca Exchanger Current during the Cardiac Cycle in Intact Perfused Mouse Heart

Membrane ionic currents (Im) measurement from cardiac multicellular preparations has been an obstacle in the understanding of cardiac excitability. The role of Na-Ca exchanger (NCX) in excitation-contraction coupling has remained elusive greatly due to this difficulty. Here we used loose patch photolysis to measure Im in intact-perfused whole hearts, to investigate the impact of the Ca2+ released from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) on the epicardial action potential (AP). We had previously observed that the epicardial mouse AP, exhibits a phase 2 that is reduced by ryanodine (Ry) and thapsigargin (Tg). To investigate if Im is directly activated by the SR Ca2+ release during the phase 2, nifedipine photolysis was used. We found a late-inward current (Ilate) that was abolished by Ry and Tg. To determine if the NCX was responsible for Ilate, the NCX blocker SEA0400 was used. SEA0400 had a similar effect on AP phase 2 as that observed with Ry and Tg. To further test if the SEA0400 effect was the result of impairing the Ca2+ removal, intracellular Ca2+ transients were studied. Consistent with NCX blockade, SEA0400 increased the amplitude of the Ca2+ transients. In addition, to determine if NCX current can be activated during diastole, intracellular NP-EGTA was photolyzed to activate a Ca2+ dependent conductance. Our results revealed a diastolic inward current that increased with the photolysis extent and that was partially blocked by SEA0400. Our data demonstrate that during an epicardial AP there is a late influx of Na+ mediated by Ca2+ activation of NCX and that this exchanger, can also be activated by Ca2+ during diastole. This finding is relevant because the Ca2+ activation of this transporter is likely to be involved in the genesis of pro-arrhythmogenic conditions.
Impaired thalamocortical connectivity in humans during general-anesthetic-induced unconsciousness

Whereas converging lines of evidence suggest that anesthetic-induced unconsciousness may result from disruption of functional interactions within neural networks involving the thalamus and cerebral cortex, the effects anesthetics have on human thalamocortical connectivity remain unexamined with current neuroimaging techniques. To address this issue we retrospectively analyzed positron emission tomography data from 11 volunteers scanned for regional cerebral glucose utilization (rCMRglu) when awake and again during isoflurane- (n = 6) or halothane- (n = 5) induced unconsciousness using statistical parametric mapping (SPM99) and structural equation modeling. A main effect analysis, contrasting awake and unconscious metabolic activity, localized a discrete region of the left va/vl thalamus whose relative rCMRglu activity was significantly suppressed (P < 0.05, corrected) during the unconscious state. To identify brain regions whose functional connectivity with this region of the thalamus was impaired during the unconscious state, a psychophysiological interaction analysis was performed. This analysis revealed effects predominantly in topographically related areas of the primary motor and supplementary motor association cortices. Structural equation modeling of a neuroanatomical network encompassing these empirically identified regions revealed significant state-related changes in effective connectivity (chi(2)diff (6)-15.88; P < 0.05) which primarily involved impairment of thalamocortical and corticocortical projections during the unconscious state. These findings support the hypothesis that a mechanistic component underlying general-anesthetic-induced unconsciousness involves disruption of functional interactions within thalamocortical neural networks.
Electrophoretic patterns of mealworm proteins.

THE literature concerning insect proteins is, generally, represented by analyses of single developmental stages, usually immature, haemolymph being the principal fluid investigated. The results of these studies show that the protein component fluctuates during development1–4. This communication shows the variations for the protein component of the mealworm Tenebrio molitor, during its developmental stages. The method employed, electrophoresis, seems to be a useful facility for investigations of this nature, since electrophoretic patterns of proteins are distinctive. Specific pattern characteristics have been reported for developmental stages of mammals5, closely related species of reptiles6,7, and amphibians8,9.
Defining bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) stocks based on environmental, physical, and behavioral characteristics

The population structure of bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, along the U.S. Atlantic coast has recently been redefined from one homogenous population into five coastal stocks. Local studies indicate even finer structure, primarily based on isolation of dolphins inhabiting estuaries. We identified population structuring of non-estuarine coastal bottlenose dolphins during a study in New Jersey, the northern range along the Atlantic Coast. Using photo-identification and distribution survey results, an analysis identified two major clusters of individuals significantly separated by five variables (distance from shoreline, group size, occurrence of the barnacle Xenobalanus globicipitis, avoidance behavior, and individual coloration). Sightings assigned to cluster 1 occurred in nearshore shallow waters (0–1.9 km, x= 3.5 m), and those assigned to cluster 2 occurred further offshore in deeper waters (1.9–6 km, x= 9.5 m). Only eight of 194 individuals (4%) were identified in both regions. Collectively, this suggests an occurrence of two stocks that are spatially, physically, and behaviorally distinguishable over a small distance. These results indicate that complexity in Tursiops population structure is not limited to latitudinal gradients or barriers created by estuarine habitats, but also by partitioning of habitat as a function of distance from shore and depth over small distances.
THE SYNTHESIS OF 5S RIBOSOMAL RNA DURING POLLEN DEVELOPMENT

Tradescantia paludosa 5S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) has been characterized with respect to its base composition and relative electrophoretic mobility in comparison with that of E. coli. The period of 5S rRNA synthesis during pollen grain development was determined by pulse labeling the RNA synthesized during a 24 hr period of development with 32P and then chasing in cold medium until pollen maturity. The period of highest 5S rRNA synthesis was found to occur prior to microspore mitosis. During and following mitosis over a period of 4 days there was a sharp decrease in the amount of 5S RNA synthesized and during the last 48 hr of pollen maturation, no 5S rRNA was synthesized.
Nanostructured semipolar LEDs for solid-state lighting

We analyzed the electrical characteristics of nanostructured semipolar InGaN light-emitting diodes and showed that they exhibited superior optical and electrical properties to the polar light-emitting diodes. A large scale fabrication strategy is proposed.
Verification of endotracheal tube placement by prehospital providers: Is a portable fiberoptic bronchoscope of value?

Introduction This study was designed to examine whether a handheld, battery-operated fiberoptic bronchoscope (FOB) used to verify endotracheal tube (ETT) placement would be as sensitive and specific as other modes and whether a combination of multiple modes would further enhance the sensitivity and specificity of ETT placement verification. Setting An academic hospital-based air medical program. Methods This was a prospective, randomized study examining surgical patients undergoing general endotracheal anesthesia. Eighteen critical care transport (CCT) nurses, previously unfamiliar with FOB, were asked to identify intratracheal and intraesophageal ETTs by using misting, end-tidal carbon dioxide concentration (ETCO 2 ), and FOB alone or with a combination of all three modes. The sensitivity and specificity of single and multimode verification were calculated and compared. Results Comparison of ETT verification by single mode alone revealed a rank order of sensitivity with ETCO 2 (0.97) > FOB (0.87) > misting (0.84), whereas all three modes had similar specificities (0.93-0.94). However, the use of the three-mode combination revealed a sensitivity and specificity of 1.0. Conclusions As a single mode for ETT verification, use of a handheld, battery-operated FOB device allowed for direct visualization and had an 87% sensitivity and 93% specificity. When combined with misting and ETCO 2 , FOB allowed 100% successful verification of ETT placement.