cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pattern discovery from audio recordings by Variable Markov Oracle: A music information dynamics approach

In this paper, a framework for automatic pattern discovery within an audio recording is proposed. The concept of the proposed framework stems from music information dynamics and is realized by Variable Markov Oracle. Music information dynamics is the research area focusing on information theoretic measures describing musical structure and is thus closely related to the field of music pattern discovery. Variable Markov Oracle is a data structure that provides both fast retrieval of repeated sub-clips from a signal and efficient calculation of music information dynamics measures. Evaluation of the proposed framework is performed on the JKU Patterns Development Dataset with significantly improved performance of the current state of the art.
1998 Monsanto Lecture in Tort Reform and Jurisprudence: Protecting Property with Puts

In the Calabresi and Melamed framework, liability rules are analogous to "call" options in that a potential taker is given the choice of taking and paying court determined damages. But it is impossible to extend the 4 rule framework to include 2 additional "put option" (or "forced purchase") rules. A "put option" rule gives the initial entitlement holder the choice of retaining the entitlement or the choice of being paid to cede the entitlement. Previous analysts of the classic Boomer and Spur opinions have focused on who pays whom but have often ignored the equally important question of who decides whether a payment will be made. The dual thesis of this of this article is that put options are a traditional part of the common law and that they should remain so. Contrary to accepted wisdom, the common law does use "put options" -- the right to force a non-consensual purchase -- as a mechanism for protecting entitlements. 1) If Calabresi steals Melamed's watch, Melamed has the option of suing to recover the watch (replevin) or suing to receive the watch's value (trover). 2) If Calabresi is a holdover tenant in Melamed's apartment, Melamed has the option of suing to enjoin Calabresi's continuing trespass or (at least in some jurisdictions) suing to force Calabresi to rent for up to an entire additional year. 3) If Calabresi builds an encroaching wall on Melamed's land, Melamed has the option of suing to force Calabresi to remove the wall or suing to force Calabresi to permanently buy the encroached land. In each of these examples, after Calabresi takes Melamed's entitlement, the common law gives Melamed a put option -- the option to choose court determined damages (for permanently ceding the entitlement to the defendant) or injunctive relief (to require the entitlement). Surprisingly, however, the victims of nuisance are not routinely given a similar put option. If Calabresi pollutes Melamed's land, Melamed is not given an analogous put option. Indeed, the famed Boomer decision gives this choice to the polluter instead of the adjoining residents. This article suggests that put options at times should be used to protect property in the nuisance context as well.
Inventory-Theoretic Model of Money Demand, Multiple Goods, and Price Dynamics

Despite the theoretical prediction based on sticky-price models, it is empirically suggested that the tie between the frequencies of price adjustment across goods and the relative price responses of goods (price index of speci…c goods over non-durable aggregate price index) to a monetary policy change is limited. We oer an alternative view of the price dynamics of goods. We develop a multi-sector extension of an inventory-theoretic model of money demand (segmented market model). In our model, the diversity in the characteristics of goods, that is, durability, luxuriousness and cash intensity (the portion of the payment that is paid by cash in the purchase of goods), yields the dispersion of relative prices responses to a monetary policy shock, across goods. The model implies that the relative prices of durables, luxuries and less cash-intensive goods tend to decline in a monetary contraction. We test the empirical plausibility of our model, using two approaches: a measure of monetary policy shock developed by Romer and Romer (2004), and a factor-augmented VAR used in Bernanke et al. (2005). In both econometric methodologies, we …nd that the data are consistent with our model, in terms of durability and luxuriousness.
Multicriteria Decision-Making Using Fuzzy Measures

We are interested in the formulation of multicriteria decision functions based on the use of a measure over the space of criteria. Specifically, the relationship between the criteria is expressed using a monotonic set measure. We then use the Choquet integral to construct decision functions based on the measure. We look at a number of different decision functions generated from specific classes of measures.
Implementation of High Strength-High Performance Concrete in Two Texas Highway Overpass Structures: Critical Comparison:

Two prestressed concrete highway overpass structures, the Louetta Road Overpass and the North Concho River Overpass, were recently constructed in Texas. The structures were built with high strength-high performance concrete (HS-HPC) with nominal strengths of up to 61 MPa (8,800 psi) at release of prestress and 97 MPa (14,000 psi) at 56 days. The use of HS-HPC, in addition to the use of prestressing strands that measured 15 mm (0.6 in.) in diameter, allowed for the accommodation of longer spans and larger girder spacing than are typical for similar designs with conventional concrete. As a result, the structural designs were extremely efficient when compared with the conventional designs. In addition, use of HPC in bridge decks is expected to result in reduced maintenance requirements and a longer service life for each bridge, thereby reducing life-cycle costs. Although HPC is used in both structures to increase structural efficiency and reduce projected life-cycle costs, the structures are quite different and represent unique applications of HPC. Both structures were instrumented as part of an extensive research program, and data were collected on prestress losses, camber and deflections, concrete strains, and concrete temperatures in several actual bridge girders. These data, in combination with observations regarding practical issues such as fabrication, handling, and overall construction costs, are used to compare and contrast the use of HPC in the two bridges. A brief set of recommendations for the use of HPC in future highway bridge projects is also presented.
Job satisfaction of Asian Americans.

Since Asian Americans have demographic and labor force characteristics more similar to Euro-Americans than African Americans, one might predict that their job satisfaction would be more like the fo...
Abundance of the garden fleahopper (Hemiptera: Miridae) on alfalfa and parasitism by Leiophron uniformis (Gahan) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae).

In 1985, the garden fleahopper, Halticus bractatus (Say), was observed damaging alfalfa regrowth in New Jersey. Field observations during the next two years showed that this insect was sporadically abundant but that it usually did not cause noticeable injury to established alfalfa stands. The parasite Leiophron uniformis (Gahan), the first nymphal parasite discovered in this host, was detected in these collections. In addition, a small proportion of garden fleahopper adults was parasitized by this braconid and by an unidentified nematode. L. uniformis killed an average of 50% of all fleahopper nymphs that we sampled and is likely the principal reason why populations of this pest are not larger and more damaging in alfalfa.
Field Performance of a New Approach Slab System

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has initiated a major effort to minimize the bridge end bump problem. As a result, a new design for the approach slab was proposed, which requires increasing the slab rigidity and the use of reinforced soil foundation (RSF) to support the slab and traffic loads. The Bayou Courtableau Bridge was selected as a demonstration project to evaluate and verify the new approach slab design system. The thickness of the approach slab is 16 inch. The end support of the approach slab is a 4.0-feet wide strip footing with soil underneath reinforced by geogrid. The first static load test was conducted right before the bridge opened to the traffic. The test results indicated that the west approach slab (with new design) remained its full contact supports from the soil while the east approach slab (with traditional design) started losing a portion of its supports from the soil.
Inducement of increased gill NA+-K+ ATPase activity by a hemolymph factor in hyperosmoregulating Callinectes sapidus

Abstract 1. 1. The branchial Na+ -K+ ATPase activity was significantly greater in blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus) acclimated to 30% seawater (30% SW) than it was in those acclimated to 100% seawater (100% SW). 2. 2. In crabs acclimated to 100% SW. but given an injection of serum from animals exposed to 30% SW, the gill Na+-K+ ATPase activity was significantly greater than that observed in crabs acclimated to 100% SW and given serum from 100% SW animals. 3. 3. There was no significant difference between the relative gill weights (expressed as per cent of the body weight) in representative crabs acclimated to 100% SW and 30% SW. 4. 4. The results of this study support the hypothesis that a serum borne agent may induce increased ATPase activity at the gill membrane of hyperosmoregulating blue crabs.
Counterfactual Models of Neighborhood Effects: The Effect of Neighborhood Poverty on Dropping Out and Teenage Pregnancy.

This article investigates the causal effects of neighborhood on high school dropping out and teenage pregnancy within a counterfactual framework. It shows that when two groups of children, identical at age 10 on observed factors, experience different neighborhoods during adolescence, those in high‐poverty neighborhoods are more likely to drop out of high school and have a teenage pregnancy than those in low‐poverty neighborhoods. Causal inferences from such associations have been plagued by the possibility of selection bias. Using a new method for sensitivity analysis, these effects are shown to be robust to selection bias. Unobserved factors would have to be unreasonably strong to account for the associations between neighborhood and the outcomes.
The appreciation of antonymic contrasts in aphasia.

Abstract To secure information on the ability of aphasic patients to comprehend antonymic relations, the kinds of confusions typically made, and the extent to which antonymic sensitivity depends upon mode of presentation and task demands, three linguistic and nonlinguistic tests were administered to aphasic patients, right hemisphere-damaged patients, and non-neurological controls. Although difficulty with antonymous relations was found among all the organic patients, the kinds of problems evidenced and the relative profile of difficulties differed across populations. Among the principal findings were the generally preserved sensitivity to antonymy found among anterior (particularly Broca's) aphasics; a surprising insensitivity to antonymy and a preference for synonyms, found among right hemisphere patients, particularly on the nonlinguistic tasks; a relative preservation of sensitivity to antonymy on nonlinguistic tasks, coupled with a loss of such sensitivity on linguistic tasks, found among posterior (particularly Wernicke's) aphasics; a proclivity toward stereotypical correct responses among the organic patients; and an absolutely worse performance by right hemisphere patients on tasks involving antonymic relations in pictures and abstract designs.
Revisiting Respondent ''Fatigue Bias'' in the National Crime Victimization Survey

For more than three decades the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS)—and its predecessor the National Crime Survey (NCS)—have been used to calculate estimates of nonfatal crime in the United States. Though the survey has contributed much to our understanding of criminal victimization, some aspects of the survey’s methodology continue to be analyzed (e.g., repeat victimizations, proxy interviews, and bounding). Surprisingly, one important aspect of NCVS methodology has escaped this scrutiny: respondent fatigue. A potential source of nonsampling error, fatigue bias is thought to manifest as respondents become ‘‘test wise’’ after repeated exposure to NCVS survey instruments. Using a special longitudinal NCVS data file, we revisit the presence and influence of respondent fatigue in the NCVS. Specifically, we test the theory that respondents exposed to longer interviews during their first interview are more likely to refuse to participate in the survey 6 months later. Contrary to expectations based on the literature, results show that prior reporting of victimization and exposure to a longer interview is not a significant predictor of a noninterview during the following time-in-sample once relevant individual characteristics are accounted for. Findings do demonstrate significant effects of survey mode and several respondent characteristics on subsequent survey nonparticipation.
Prolactin and luteinizing hormone levels in female turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) during a photoinduced reproductive cycle and broodiness

Abstract Serum prolactin and luteinizing hormone levels were measured in female turkeys from the onset of photostimulation, through the egg-laying period and into the incubation (broodiness) phase of the reproductive cycle. Prolactin levels were low before photostimulation (22 ng/ml) and remained so during the first week of photostimulation. Levels gradually rose, reaching 45–50 ng/ml before the first ovulation. During the early laying period levels rose to 100 ng/ml or more. Seven of the ten hens studied became broody. In six of these hens there were marked increases in prolactin levels around the onset of broodiness with levels eventually reaching well over 1000 ng/ml in five of the seven hens. Hens which became broody remained so for the remainder of the experiment and their prolactin levels remained high. Three of the ten hens did not become broody, but two stopped laying during the experiment. Cessation of lay was associated with transient increases in prolactin in these individuals. LH levels increased within a few days after photostimulation and showed marked fluctuations during the ovulatory period. Levels fell at the onset of broodiness and remained low in broody hens.
Iatrogenic Acute Estrogen Deficiency and Psychiatric Syndromes in Breast Cancer Patients

The change of estrogen function, represented by amenorrhea or hot flashes, that results from breast cancer treatment may increase the risk of major depressive disorder in those women undergoing treatment for breast cancer. This pilot study describes the course of menopausal symptoms and the incidence of depression in 21 patients who were likely to become acutely estrogen deficient during treatment for breast cancer. These included women who lost menses during chemotherapy, who suddenly stopped estrogen replacement therapy (ERT), or who started tamoxifen. Eight patients (38%) developed major depressive disorder, the majority within 6 months of starting treatment. Twenty patients (95%) had dysphoria and/or insomnia. Fourteen patients (66%) had hot flashes. While this is only pilot data, these data suggest that breast cancer patients whose treatment precipitates menopausal symptoms should be targeted for diagnosis of depression and treated if diagnosed.
Formation and decomposition of peroxides of unsaturated fat esters

1. A study of reaction time and the effect of oxygen on determination of peroxide by the acetic acidpotassium iodide method shows that a one-hour reaction time in the absence of oxygen is necessary, especially on samples of high peroxide. 2. The peroxide-formation curves at 100°, 75°, 55°, 35°, and 15° show a progressive increase in maximum peroxide value reached as the temperature is lowered to 35°. At 15°, the maximum is the same as at 35°; this value is over 30 percent of what it would be if all the double bonds were converted to peroxide. 3. The agreement between actual peroxide and “theoretical peroxide” calculated from decrease in iodine number extends to higher peroxide values as the temperature is decreased. 4. The rate of decomposition or disappearance of peroxide at 100°, 75°, 55°, and 35° agrees best with that of a bimolecular reaction, but definite exceptions exist. 5. The speed of decomposition of peroxide becomes progressively greater as the degree of oxidation is increased. 6. The changes in unsaturation, OH number, and acid number are small compared to the decrease in peroxide value as the peroxide decomposes. The formation of volatile and inflammable products was qualitatively observed in the decomposition of highly oxidized esters.
Electron density and temperature in the photoionized background gas (N2) surrounding a laser-produced plasma

Abstract An approach to obtain the electron density ( N e ) and temperature ( T e ) in nitrogen photoionized by radiation from a laser-produced plasma is described. The method is based on absolute intensities of the 3371 and 3914 A bands and does not require quantitative knowledge of the photoionizing radiation. Applications are made using experimentally obtained data to find N e and T e .
Induction of heat shock protein 70 mRNA in adult hamster facial nuclear groups following axotomy of the facial nerve.

In this study, the effects of axotomy on heat shock protein 70 (hsp70) mRNA levels were analyzed by northern blot hybridization with a mouse-inducible hsp70 cDNA probe. The right facial nerve of adult golden hamsters was axotomized external to the skull, with the left nerve serving as sham-operated and internal control. Postoperative survival times were 0.5, 2, 6, 12, and 24 hr, with three to six animals per time point. Total RNA in the axotomized and control facial nuclear groups, dissected from the brain stem, was isolated by guanidinium-thiocyanate extraction and analyzed by northern hybridization and scanning densitometry. For normalization, the blots were rehybridized with a genomic cDNA probe complementary to the 28 S rRNA. At 0.5 hr postoperative, there was a 68% induction of hsp70 mRNA levels as compared to control. This increase peaked at 2 hr postoperative with a 280% induction and declined subsequently to 160% at 6 hr, 33% at 12 hr, and — 56% at 24 hr, relative to control levels. As a positive control, hyperthermia-induced hsp70 expression was established in hamster whole brain using northern blot hybridization and the mouse-inducible hsp70 cDNA probe. There was a 126% increase in hsp70 mRNA levels relative to control at 1.5 hr following hyperthermia. By 6.5 hr after the 1.5-hr hyperthermic period, there was a 40% decrease in hsp70 mRNA levels below control. The results provide the first evidence that peripheral axotomy acts as a cell stressor to induce the expression of hsp70 mRNA. Within our current understanding of the nerve cell body response to injury, the data represent the earliest changes in gene expression following axotomy reported thus far.
The steady-state relaxation time and the product at equilibrium

Abstract 1. 1. According to Bucher and his co-workers, the steady-state relaxation time (i.e. the reciprocal of the first-order process by which an enzyme reaction reaches equilibrium) determines, in part, the apparent metabolic flow rate through a given enzymatic step in vivo. 2. 2. A new method for the determination of the kinetic constants required for the calculation of the apparent metabolic flow rates according to Bucher , is developed. The method is based on the measured concentrations of substrate or product in the course of incubation, and has been adapted for use by a digital computer. 3. 3. The relevance of the data thus obtained to the calculated metabolic flow rates are briefly discussed.
Repeated lentivirus-mediated granulocyte colony-stimulating factor administration to treat canine cyclic neutropenia

Abstract Cyclic neutropenia occurs in humans and gray collie dogs, is characterized by recurrent neutropenia, and is treated by repeated injections of recombinant granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rG-CSF). As dose escalation of lentivirus may be clinically necessary, we monitored the outcome of four sequential intramuscular injections of G-CSF-lentivirus (3×107 IU/kg body weight) to a normal dog and a gray collie. In the normal dog absolute neutrophil counts were significantly increased after each dose of virus, with mean levels of 27.75±3.00, 31.50±1.40, 35.05±1.68, and 43.88±2.94×103 cells/μl, respectively (p<0.001), and elevated neutrophil counts of 31.18±7.81×103 cells/μl were maintained for more than 6 years with no adverse effects. A gray collie dog with a mean count of 1.94±1.48×103 cells/μl received G-CSF-lentivirus and we observed sustained elevations in neutrophil levels for more than 5 months with a mean of 26.00±11.00×103 cells/μl, significantly increased over the pretreatment level (p<0....
Needle tract seeding of transitional cell carcinoma following fine-needle aspiration of a renal mass

A 64-year-old man presented with recurrence of transitional cell carcinoma attributed to needle tract seeding of tumor 8 months following fine-needle aspiration of a lower pole renal mass.
Anthropometrics, Eating Attitudes, and Body Image in Asians and Caucasians

Abstract Anthropometries, eating attitudes, fear of fat, and body image were assessed in 25 Asian and 91 Caucasian college women between the ages of 18 and 29. Height and weight were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) was calculated by dividing waist circumference (measured 1 inch above the umbilicus) by hip circumference (measured at the maximum girth over the buttocks). Percent body fat was estimated from the sum of 3 skinfolds using Lange calipers. Eating disorder tendencies were assessed using the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT) for which a score of 30 or higher indicates weight preoccupation and an increased risk for developing an eating disorder. Goldbarb's Fear of Fat Scale was used to determine fear of fatness. Subjects were asked to identify the silhouette on the Canadian Dietetic Association's BMI Silhouette drawings (with BMI values deleted) that most closely represented their body as well as the ideal body. Weight and height were significantly higher in Caucasian women compared to Asian women (p
Two Constructive Methods for Designing Compact Feedforward Networks of Threshold Units

We propose two algorithms for constructing and training compact feedforward networks of linear threshold units. The SHIFT procedure constructs networks with a single hidden layer while the PTI constructs multilayered networks. The resulting networks are guaranteed to perform any given task with binary or real-valued inputs. The various experimental results reported for tasks with binary and real-valued inputs indicate that our methods compare favorably with alternative procedures deriving from similar strategies, both in terms of size of the resulting networks and of their generalization properties.
Spin polarized neutron matter within the Dirac-Brueckner-Hartree-Fock approach

The relation between energy and density (known as the nuclear equation of state) plays a major role in a variety of nuclear and astrophysical systems. Spin and isospin asymmetries can have a dramatic impact on the equation of state and possibly alter its stability conditions. An example is the possible manifestation of ferromagnetic instabilities, which would indicate the existence, at a certain density, of a spin-polarized state with lower energy than the unpolarized one. This issue is being discussed extensively in the literature and the conclusions are presently very model dependent. We will report and discuss our recent progress in the study of spin-polarized neutron matter. The approach we take is microscopic and relativistic. The calculated neutron matter properties are derived from realistic nucleon-nucleon interactions. This makes it possible to understand the properties of the equation of state in terms of specific features of the nuclear force model.
Learning from the lost: new insights into TCR specificity.

Contacts between T cell receptors and peptide–major histocompatibility complex molecules require specific amino acid interactions. However, some amino acids have no direct involvement in contact but nevertheless are critical for specificity.
Numerical analyses of some common errors in chemosystematics

The effects of random and nonrandom errors were analyzed. Four types of nonrandom errors were simulated and examined in detail: 1. misidentification of compounds; 2. unresolved components; 3. errors in the quantification of individual compounds; and 4. errors in the quantification of a series of analyses. These cases were compared using data from studies inJuniperus. Misidentification of 1 of 40 components had only a slight effect on the resulting classification even when that error accounted for 20% of the total character weights. Unresolved components also had only a slight effect. Nonrandom errors in the quantification of individual compounds (throughout a study) were shown to have no effect on the similarity measure used in this study. Errors in the quantification of a series of analyses (such as encountered in seasonal variations) appeared to be the most serious source of error and were shown to be of considerable importance in chemosystematic studies. Several preventative procedures are suggested.
Self-Image Motives: Further Thoughts and Reflections

The commentaries provided by Kruger, Galek, and Burrus and Sedikides, Gregg, Cisek, and Hart spark some speculations concerning future questions to study. The belief harmonization approach may provide an explanation, for example, for why people tend to be more dissatisfied with complex rather than simple decisions. In addition, if individual differences in self-esteem and related constructs matter, then the impact of self-image motives on consumer behavior, from a historical perspective, may be increasing.
Comment on “Sintering with Rigid Inclusions”

I N A recent paper on sintering with rigid inclusions,’ it was reported that the stress generated in the inclusion due to differential sintering cannot exceed twice the sintering pressure unless the Poisson ratio of the matrix has a negative value. It was also pointed out that earlier predictions of higher stresses (-100 MPa)2,3 implied a negative Poisson ratio.’ However, when the matrix is a polycrystalline ceramic, where densification and viscoelastic deformation of the matrix occur by different mechanisms, the approach used to obtain the results in Ref. I deserves further considerations. In this comment, a brief summary of the model discussed in Ref. 1 is given. Then, specific comments on this model are presented. Finally, a simplified case based on an earlier study3 is used to facilitate understanding of the concept of the “viscous Poisson ratio” in the sintering behavior. Sintering behavior of a ceramic powder compact containing heterogeneities has been discussed recently. These studies show that stresses develop in the composite because of differential sintering rates of the matrix versus inclusions, and the sintering rate of the composite is retarded because of these stresses. In a recent composite sphere model for sintering with rigid inclusions,’ the contraction rate of the matrix, represented by the cladding layer of the sphere, is retarded by stresses generated by the inclusion, represented by the core of the sphere. The stress analysis in this system is analogous to that of thermal stresses,6 with the densification strain rate, replacing the thermal strain.’ Thermal stress analysis shows that in the presence of the temperature change and stresses, the total strain of the elastic matrix in the x direction, E , , of a Cartesian coordinate system contains two components: the thermal strain, e f , and the elastic strain due to stresses, such that‘
Personality, Affective Processing, and Self‐Regulation: Toward Process‐Based Views of Extraversion, Neuroticism, and Agreeableness

Personality psychology seeks to be explanatory rather than merely descriptive, and the purpose of this review is to examine the viability of a cognitive processing approach to personality traits. In support of this goal, a multistage cognitive processing model is introduced. The review then seeks to link extraversion, neuroticism, and agreeableness to distinct processing operations. It is suggested that extraversion and neuroticism are systematically related to affective memory structures favoring positive and negative affect, respectively. On the other hand, it is suggested that agreeableness appears to be less closely linked to accessibility processes and more closely linked to affect and emotion control following activated hostile thoughts. Finally, recent data support developmental suggestions that individual differences in executive function appear to play an important role in moderating the neuroticism-distress relationship. In total, the review documents recent developments in understanding the processing basis of extraversion, neuroticism, and agreeableness.
Taming SOX costs with six sigma

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) was passed to fight fraud. But SOX has imposed a lot of additional work and expense on public companies and their independent auditors. Large public companies have been shocked at the multibillion-dollar costs of first-year SOX compliance. And year two's costs do not look much better. Is there a way to get SOX costs under control? The authors say the answer is yes, and it can be done by using a powerful quality improvement tool: Six Sigma. They show how to use it and how to avoid common pitfalls. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Breeding Habits of Bobcats in Utah

The sex ratio of trapped bobcats revealed a preponderance of males. Breeding started in January and extended to July or later. Embryos were found each month from January until September—most were in March and April. Embryos ranged in number from 1–8, had a mode of 3, and averaged 3.2. Litter size ranged from 1–6, had a mode of 4, and averaged 3.5 kittens. Placental scars ranged from 3–5, had a mode of 4, and averaged 3.9. Bright yellow corpora lutea ranged from 2–9, had a mode of 5, and averaged 4.8 per female. Birth dates of 13 litters extended from March to July; one September pregnancy was noted. Lactating females were found from March until September, the most in May. Kittens a few to several days old weighed from 4.5–11.6 ounces. There was no indication that males help with the care of young. Females are good mothers and will care for kittens under trying conditions, but if unduly disturbed may sometimes desert the newborn young. Kittens will stay with the female until 2/3 to 3/4 grown. One instance of hybridization between a male bobcat and female domestic cat is reported.
Long-Term Trends in Adult Mortality for U.S. Blacks and Whites: An Examination of Period- and Cohort-Based Changes

Black–white differences in U.S. adult mortality have narrowed over the past five decades, but whether this narrowing unfolded on a period or cohort basis is unclear. The distinction has important implications for understanding the socioeconomic, public health, lifestyle, and medical mechanisms responsible for this narrowing. We use data from 1959 to 2009 and age-period-cohort (APC) models to examine period- and cohort-based changes in adult mortality for U.S. blacks and whites. We do so for all-cause mortality among persons aged 15–74 as well as for several underlying causes of death more pertinent for specific age groups. We find clear patterns of cohort-based reductions in mortality for both black men and women and white men and women. Recent cohort-based reductions in heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, female breast cancer, and other cancer mortality have been substantial and, save for breast cancer, have been especially pronounced for blacks. Period-based changes have also occurred and are especially pronounced for some causes of death. Period-based reductions in blacks’ and whites’ heart disease and stroke mortality are particularly impressive, as are recent period-based reductions in young men’s and women’s mortality from infectious diseases and homicide. These recent period changes are more pronounced among blacks. The substantial cohort-based trends in chronic disease mortality and recent period-based reductions for some causes of death suggest a continuing slow closure of the black-white mortality gap. However, we also uncover troubling signs of recent cohort-based increases in heart disease mortality for both blacks and whites.
A 22 kDa polyanion inhibits carnitine-dependent fatty acid oxidation in rat liver mitochondria

The transport of activated fatty acids across the mitochondrial outer membrane has not been fully addressed. A polyanion (M(n)=22 kDa) inhibited the ADP-stimulated carnitine-dependent oxidation of both palmitoyl-CoA and palmitate plus CoA as well as mitochondrial hexokinase binding. In contrast, the oxidation of palmitoylcarnitine plus malate, as well as glutamate oxidation, was essentially unaffected. Mitochondrial carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 was not inhibited by the polyanion. The data suggest an additional component in carnitine-dependent mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation, possibly porin.
Chronic Disease Burden Among Bhutanese Refugee Women Aged 18-65 Years Resettled in Northeast Ohio, United States, 2008-2011.

The purpose of this community-based study was to assess the prevalence of chronic diseases among 18–65 year old Bhutanese refugee women resettled in Northeast Ohio, United States (US). A Nepali-language questionnaire was administered in a face-to-face mode. Anthropometric measurements included height, weight, and hip and waist circumferences. The overall prevalence (95 % confidence interval) of self-reported hypertension, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and cancer were 15.3 % (9.2–23.4), 6.4 % (2.3–10.9), 5.5 % (2.0–11.5), 2.7 % (0.6–7.8), and 1.8 % (0.2–6.4), respectively. Overweight/obesity was observed in 64.8 % of the women; 69.5 and 74.1 % had waist circumference >80 cm and waist-to-hip ratio ≥85, respectively. Length of time in the US was not associated with the prevalence of the chronic conditions. This study suggests chronic conditions may be significant health issues among US resettled Bhutanese refugees and a larger population-based study to confirm the findings is warranted.
NIH Portfolio Allocation, Lemmings, and the Silent Spring: A Time-Capsule Commentary & Its Update

With the release of the US President’s proposed budget for the Federal Fiscal year (FY) 2013, to start October 1, 2012, we’ve spun yet again into the mad vortex of an appropriation season. Fundamental re-thinks of how biological and medical research are prioritized and funded are urgently needed, but sadly appear to be unlikely unless the research and advocacy communities push harder and in a more unified manner. Early in the Obama presidency and the NIH Directorship of Dr Francis Collins, the FASEB Office of Public Affairs performed an analysis of trends in funding of R01 and other Research Project Grants and shared that with the Director and his office. Using the FASEB analysis, whose numbers drew on NIH data, an independent commentary (below) was submitted to (but not published in) Science. With the analysis a few years old, this older viewpoint is followed by updates that touch on how the trends have fared since early 2010 and comment on other aspects of the ongoing cull in biomedical research. In particular, data on some of the growth areas that continue to prosper at the expense of the ever-declining direct support for R01 science are discussed.
On the Magnetic Scattering of Neutrons

The scattering of slow neutrons by atoms is considered, assuming that, in addition to the ordinary nuclear forces, there is a magnetic interaction between the neutron and the atomic electrons. It is found that the neutrons scattered from an unpolarized beam will be partially polarized in virtue of this magnetic interaction. Since the scattered intensity depends not only upon the intensity, but also upon the spin density of the incident beam, the polarization thus produced can manifest itself by a second scattering. An expression is derived for the neutron intensity after double scattering from magnetized iron plates. Under optimum conditions, it is found that the scattered intensity with parallel orientation of magnetizations is 15 times that with antiparallel orientation. The partial polarization of the scattered neutrons indicates that the undeviated neutron beam will also have a nonvanishing spin density. Expressions are derived for the intensity and spin density of a neutron beam after traversing a certain thickness of magnetized iron. These results are used in the discussion of three types of experiments for producing and detecting a polarized beam of neutrons.
Limited prescription privileges for psychologists: Review and implications for the practice of psychology in the schools

In this article, we present a balanced view of the prescriptive authority debate in relation to five major issues and within the context of the practice of psychology in the schools: (a) appropriate training, (b) quality of care, (c) access to services, (d) continuity of care, and (e) professional identity. We also provide an analysis of the quality and relevance of each issue within the school practice context. Despite the increasing momentum of the prescriptive authority initiative at the state level, it seems unlikely that prescription privileges will be extended to psychologists working in school-based practice settings. Nevertheless, informed school psychologists have the opportunity to become involved in this issue at both the national and state levels. These efforts may take the form of supporting or opposing the initiative or of lobbying for extension of prescriptive authority into some school settings. At the individual level, informed school psychologists will have the opportunity to develop strong working relationships with prescribing psychologists in their communities and to exercise appropriate professional judgments when referring students or families for services in the community. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcriptional regulation of fibroblast collagen synthesis by activated mononuclear cell supernatants

Mononuclear cells elaborate effector substances which regulate growth and synthetic activities of fibroblasts. We have studied the mechanism by which activated mononuclear cell supernatants inhibit collagen production. Activated supernatants were prepared by culturing human peripheral mononuclear cells with phytohemagglutinin. Human fibroblasts were exposed to the activated supernatants and total cellular RNA was isolated. Collagen mRNA levels were measured using a pro alpha [I] probe and poly(A+) mRNA was assayed using polyuridylic acid as the probe. Collagen production was measured as collagenase-digestible radioactivity. The results showed that pro alpha 1 [I] mRNA levels were decreased in cells incubated with the activated mononuclear cell supernatants and that the decrease was dose and time dependent. The reduction in the pro alpha 1 [I] mRNA correlated with the decrease in collagen production. No inhibition in the poly(A+) message was observed. We conclude that inhibition of collagen production by activated mononuclear cell supernatant occurs primarily at the transcriptional level and that the inhibition may be selective to collagen.
Subunit Structure of Aldolase

A new crystal form of rabbit muscle aldolase shows that the molecule has 222 symmetry to at least 4-angstrom resolution, and hence that the gross conformation of the four subunits is the same. Comparison of the new form with a previously reported form establishes the number of molecules per unit cell, n, in the older form. For an independent check, the "crystal-volume and protein-content method" was developed to determine n without directly measuring the water content of the crystals.
Endothelial wound repair in primate cornea

Abstract In vivo transcorneal freezing was used to destroy two-thirds of the endothelial cells in monkey cornea and the sequential process of repair was studied by biomicroscopy, pachometry, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The freezing injury resulted in complete denudation of cells from Descemet's membrane in the area of the probe, and the corneas became grossly edematous and doubled in thickness during the first 24 hr. Repopulation of the denuded area was complete by 7–9 days and appeared to be due to the enlargement and migration of the marginal endothelial cells. Corneal thickness decreased after the endothelial layer was re-established, but after stabilization remained at least 0·1 mm above control values. Similarities between the pattern of endothelial repair in the primate and of endothelial decompensation (due to age or injury) in the human suggest that this may be a better model for studies of endothelial regeneration than is the rabbit cornea.
Theory of the Contribution of Excitons to the Complex Dielectric Constant of Crystals

It is shown that the ordinary semiclassical theory of the absorption of light by exciton states is not completely satisfactory (in contrast to the case of absorption due to interband transitions). A more complete theory is developed. It is shown that excitons are approximate bosons, and, in interaction with the electromagnetic field, the exciton field plays the role of the classical polarization field. The eigenstates of the system of crystal and radiation field are mixtures of photons and excitons. The ordinary one-quantum optical lifetime of an excitation is infinite. Absorption occurs only when "three-body" processes are introduced. The theory includes "local field" effects, leading to the Lorentz local field correction when it is applicable. A Smakula equation for the oscillator strength in terms of the integrated absorption constant is derived.
Preparation for Counseling Adults with Terminal Illness: Personal and Professional Parallels.

This article presents a review of the literature on counseling adults with terminal illness, particularly the literature on the nature of preparation that counselors and other professionals who attend to the needs of adults with a terminal illness require. The authors review information and findings from philosophical, psychological, practical, and spiritual works. It is evident from these readings that a personal and professional examination of making meaning of life and death is integral to the performance and personal well-being of professionals who take this caregiving role.
Early- versus late-onset dysthymic disorder: comparison in out-patients with superimposed major depressive episodes

Background: This study examined the validity of the early-late onset subtyping distinction in dysthymic disorder. Methods: Participants were 340 out-patients meeting DSM-III-R criteria for dysthymia and a concurrent major depressive episode (MDE). The sample was drawn from a 12-site double-blind randomized parallel group trial comparing the efficacy of sertraline and imipramine in the treatment of chronic depression. All patients received comprehensive evaluations using semi-structured interviews and rating scales. Results: 73% of the sample met criteria for the early-onset, and 27% for the late-onset, subtype. The early-onset patients had a significantly longer index MDE, significantly higher rates of personality disorders and lifetime substance use disorders, and a significantly greater proportion had a family history of mood disorder. The subgroups did not differ in symptom severity or functional impairment at baseline, nor in response to a 12-week trial of antidepressants. Limitations: Further work is needed to extend these findings to dysthymic disorder without superimposed MDEs. Conclusions: These results support the distinction between early-onset and late-onset dysthymic disorder.
Glutamine transport in human and rat placenta

Glutamine plays an important role in fetal nutrition. This study explored the transport of [ 3 H]glutamine into apical and basal predominant membrane vesicles derived from rat and human placenta. Na + -dependent glutamine transport was present in both apical and basal predominant vesicles derived from 20- and, to a lesser degree, 14-day gestation rat placenta. Amino-acid transport systems A, ASC-like, B o,+ (in apical membrane vesicles) and, perhaps, y + L were involved in Na + -dependent glutamine transport. Na + -dependent glutamine uptake into human placental microvillus and basolateral membrane vesicles also occurred via several distinct transport activities. Glutamine transport via system N was not detected in either rat or human placental preparations. Na + -dependent glutamine transport in the rat was more pronounced in basal as compared to apical membrane vesicles. Conversely, in the human preparations, activity was significantly higher in microvillus as compared to basolateral membrane vesicles. It is concluded that Na + -dependent glutamine transport occurs through a variety of transport agencies in both the rat and human placenta. Transport varies with ontogeny and between species.
Evolution and Applications of the Term Consumerism: Theme and Variations

The term CONSUMERISM has had a variety of meanings over its relatively brief history. Coined in obscurity, the word was given negative connotations by business apologists before finally being adopted by the consumer movement to describe its activities. However, an unrelated and highly prejudicial meaning has been gaining currency. As a result, there are increasing possibilities for misunderstanding and negative responses to the term CONSUMERISM from the public.
Time-series Analysis for Detecting Structure Changes and Suspicious Accounting Activities in Public Software Companies

Abstract This paper offers a novel methodology using several new ratios and comparison approaches to investigate public software companies’ financial activities and condition. The methodology focuses on time-series data mining, monitoring and analyzing. The dataset is based on 100 U.S. software companies with least ten-year SEC verified income statement, balance sheets and cash flow statement. The contribution of this paper is creating and applying several new financial ratios combined with traditional approach to detect companies’ financial structure changes and accounts manipulation. For cash flow statement operating section, our proposed major account to operating net cash inflow and outflow ratios provide a better visualization of the cash sources and usage, which help analysts to observe major cash flow structure changes and make predication. For investing section, our proposed investing cash flow growth contribution ratio is used to identify irregular investment behavior. Combining with the traditional financial ratio tests, we believe that our approach significantly facilitates early detection on suspicious financial activities and the evaluation of its financial status.
Effects of pentobarbital on the regulation of acetylcholine content and release in different regions of rat brain

Abstract Pentobarbital administered to rats in rivo increased the levels of acetylcholine (ACh) in the cerebral cortex, striatum, hippocampus and pons-medulla but not in the midbrain or cerebellum. It has been suggested that the increased levels of ACh may be the result of an inhibition of release of the transmitter. However, when pentobarbital was tested in vitro, it inhibited potassium-stimulated ACh release from all regions. Release of ACh and tissue levels of ACh were compared directly in cerebral cortex and midbrain in vitro. Stimulation with 25 and 50 mM KC1 enhanced ACh release from both regions but decreased tissue ACh only in the cerebral cortex. Pentobarbital inhibited potassium-stimulated ACh release from both regions but only increased tissue ACh in the cerebral cortex (stimulated with 25 mM KCl). These results suggest that the regulation of ACh synthesis and release is different in the two brain regions and that pentobarbital can inhibit ACh release without necessarily causing a concomitant rise in ACh tissue levels.