cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
After the End Times: Postcrisis African Science Fiction

We live in a moment of “apocalyptic time,” the “time of the end of time.” Ours is a moment of global ecological crisis, of the ever-impending collapse of capital. That we live on the brink is too clear. What is not, however, is our ability to imagine the moment after this dual crisis. In recent years, African artists have begun to articulate this “moment after,” ushering in a new paradigm in African literature and film that speculates upon postcrisis African futures. Writers and filmmakers such as Nigeria’s Efe Okogu and Kenya’s Wanuri Kahiu have imagined future African topographies—spaces that have felt the fullest effects of climate change, nuclear radiation, and the imbalances of global capitalism. Biopolitics, sovereignty, and the human have all been reconfigured in these African science fictions. Okogu and Kahiu’s futurist aesthetics are specters that loom over our present, calling for a radically reimagined politics of the now.
Root-zone mineral nitrogen changes as affected by crop sequence and tillage

Crop sequence and tillage affect soil mineral N (NH4 plus NO3) and NO3 leaching below the root zone following alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). A 2-yr field experiment was conducted in south-central Idaho to determine the effect on soil NO3 levels of a corn (Zea mays L.)- wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) rotation compared with a bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)-bean rotation and to demonstrate improved N utilization with a corn-wheat rotation. Alfalfa, growing on an irrigated Portneuf silt loam (coarse-silty, mixed, mesic Durixerollic Calciorthid), was killed in October 1989 with herbicide. Treatments were: (i) BT-BT: conventional tilled bean grown in 1990 and 1991; (ii) CNT-WNT: no-till silage corn grown in 1990, and no-till winter wheat grown in 1990-1991; and (iii) CT-WT: same as CNT-WNT but under conventional tillage. Similar amounts of soil N were mineralized the first (275 kg N ha-1) and second (213 kg N ha-1) year after killing the alfalfa in all treatments. The BT-BT treatment had the highest growing-season soil mineral N (up to 251 kg ha-1, 0-0.45-m depth) because the N uptake by bean was lower (187 kg N ha-1) than corn (252 kg N ha-1, average of CT-WT and CNT-WNT treatments) in 1990 and later than winter wheat uptake in 1991. Most wheat N uptake had occurred by late June when bean uptake was just starting. A rotation that follows alfalfa with corn or a crop with a similar N uptake pattern, instead of bean, will save N fertilizer, lower soil NO3 levels, and reduce NO3 leaching potential
Effects of nanomaterial physicochemical properties on in vivo toxicity

It is well recognized that physical and chemical properties of materials can alter dramatically at nanoscopic scale, and the growing use of nanotechnologies requires careful assessment of unexpected toxicities and biological interactions. However, most in vivo toxicity concerns focus primarily on pulmonary, oral, and dermal exposures to ultrafine particles. As nanomaterials expand as therapeutics and as diagnostic tools, parenteral administration of engineered nanomaterials should also be recognized as a critical aspect for toxicity consideration. Due to the complex nature of nanomaterials, conflicting studies have led to different views of their safety. Here, the physicochemical properties of four representative nanomaterials (dendrimers, carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, and gold nanoparticles) as it relates to their toxicity after systemic exposure is discussed.
Ordos Municipality: A market-era resource boomtown

Abstract Ordos Municipality is a prefecture-level city in China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. The city emerged in the 2000s as a coalmining boomtown exploiting endowments equal to one sixth of China’s total proven coal reserve. After converting from rural to urban status in 2001, the local government also used the resource boom to vastly expand the urban areas of the municipality and stimulate broader industrialization. Rapid urban expansion helped to inflate a severe property bubble and spurred the formation of volatile informal financial networks. Crashes in the local property market and informal finance in 2011 caused a sharp downturn in the local economy. Ordos’ city-building agenda, with its strong emphasis on land development and lacking a broad industrial base, produced unstable economic conditions. Due to its recent problems, Ordos is now widely cited as a cautionary example for other resource-based cities in China.
Selective Internal Radiation Therapy: An Innovative Approach to the Treatment of Liver Tumors

Abstract Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) is an emerging technology that uses established interventional techniques to deliver radioactive particles directly to tumors in the liver. In this radiology-guided procedure, a small catheter is placed in the femoral artery and advanced into position in the hepatic artery. Thousands of tiny, radioactive particles are then injected into the artery. These particles are carried into the capillary bed of the tumors and emit radiation to this localized area. Goals of therapy include decreased tumor burden, palliation of symptoms, and increased time to disease progression. Common side effects include localized abdominal pain, nausea, fever, and fatigue. Clinical management of this patient population is complex and requires collaboration between interventional radiology (IR), medical oncology, radiation oncology, and nuclear medicine departments. This poster presentation will provide an overview of SIRT and the role of the IR nurse in providing care and management to this patient population. This information will enable radiology nurses to provide safe and effective nursing care of patients undergoing this novel form of radiation therapy.
Toxicity and biotransformation of uncoated and coated nickel hydroxide nanoparticles on mesquite plants

Nanomaterials are of particular interest in environmental chemistry due to their unknown toxicity to living organisms. Reports indicate that nanoparticles (NPs) affect seed germination, but the uptake and biotransformation of metal nanoparticles is not well understood. The present study investigated the toxicity and biotransformation of Ni(OH)2 NPs by mesquite plants (Prosopis sp.). Three sets of plants were treated for four weeks with 0.01, 0.05, or 0.10 g of either uncoated or sodium citrate coated NPs before and after synthesis. Nickel concentrations in plants were determined by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and the form and oxidation state of Ni was determined using X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Results showed that uncoated NPs had an average size of 8.7 nm, whereas coated NPs before and after synthesis had an average of 2.5 and 0.9 nm, respectively. The ICP-OES results showed that plants treated with 0.10 g of uncoated and coated NPs before and after synthesis had 803, 764, and 400 mg Ni kg dry weight, in the leaves, respectively. The XAS analyses showed Ni NPs in roots and shoots of plants treated with uncoated NPs, whereas leaves showed a Ni(II)-organic acid type complex. However, plants treated with coated NPs before or after synthesis showed Ni NPs only in roots and a Ni(II)-organic acid complex in shoots and leaves. Results also showed that none of the treatments reduced plant size or chlorophyll production. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first time that the biotransformation of nanoparticles by a plant system is reported.
The 147 nm photodecomposition of methysilane

The photodecomposition of methylsilane at 147 nm results in the formation of hydrogen, methane, ethane, dimethylsilane, methyldisilane, dimethyldisilane and a solid deposit on the walls of the vessel. Six primary processes are required to explain the experimental results. These are as follows, with the primary quantum yields given in parentheses: The excess energies of the photodissociations, which must be disposed of by the products of the primary processes, are very large, ranging from 42 to 150 kcal mol−1, so that without doubt the products of the primary processes are internally excited. It is shown specifically that methyl radicals from reaction (b) react some 140 times faster with methylsilane than do methyl radicals without excess internal energy. A mechanism involving further reactions of the products of the primary processes is proposed which is in accord with the experimental facts.
Mechanical alternans and the force-frequency relationship in failing rat hearts

We examined contractile performance in perfused ventricles from normal rats and from SHHF/Mccfacp rats with end-stage heart failure. Changes in pacing frequency from 3 to 5 Hz evoked a complex response in normal rat myocardium. The first beat after a switch to 5 Hz was extremely weak, but each successive beat was stronger until force exceeded the 3 Hz steady state value by approximately 30%. Force then gradually declined to a new steady state where developed pressure was depressed but rate-pressure product was slightly greater than that at 3 Hz. By contrast, in failing SHHF/Mcc-facp hearts, an increase in pacing frequency from 3 to 5 Hz did not increase force development. Instead, the isovolumic left ventricles exhibited mechanical alternans. This alternation between weak and strong beats was abolished by 1 mM caffeine but restored by its washout. Inhibition of SR Ca2+ accumulation by 50-500 nM thapsigargin in normal ventricles did not evoke alternans when pacing frequencies were increased. The results indicate that mechanical alternans in failing rat hearts is due to altered reactions of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, but a decreased rate of Ca2+ accumulation is not the primary cause.
The ethics of conducting ‘false memory’ research with children: a reply to Herrmann and Yoder

Child witness research has two central yet complementary goals: (1) to advance scienti®c knowledge, and (2) to address real-world problems. Research on children's eyewitness memory, including research on `implanted' or `false' memory, integrates the two goals well. In regard to scienti®c advances, valuable knowledge about how children encode, store, and retrieve information is gained. In regard to addressing real-world problems, important information is provided about children's capabilities in forensic interviews and courtroom encounters, information that is potentially relevant to the guilt or innocence of individuals accused of crimes against children. It is essential to weigh the utility of `false memory' research in relation to these two goals when discussing its future and ethics. In the present commentary, we respond to concerns raised by Herrmann and Yoder about the ethics of conducting implanted memory studies. We welcome discussion of ethical issues in eyewitness memory research with children, especially false memory research, and we agree with a number of general points made by Herrmann and Yoder. For example, the authors rightfully state that `future development of memory paradigms to be used with children should from the outset include consultation of the relevant child development literature'. As Thompson (1990, 1992) notes, the ability to conduct ethically sound research with children depends largely on consideration of children's cognitive and socio-emotional development. Another point raised by Herrmann andYoder is alsowell justi®ed: `Although the implantedmemory paradigm has increased knowledge about memory, we believe this research as it has been used with children raises ethical issues that should be examined'. We concur that empirical research should address the issues raised byHerrmann andYoder, and that researchers who have already conducted implanted memory studies should take the lead. However, we contend that such an examination should co-occur with: (1) appreciation of the signi®cance of implanted memory research for societal intervention into child maltreatment, particularly child sexual abuse, and for psychological theory; (2) more critical and complete analysis of the actual methodologies and results of false memory studies; (3) discussion of possible bene®ts to children of participating in child eyewitness studies; and (4) evaluation of other types of child witness research that may be more deserving of ethical scrutiny. We discuss these issues in turn. Finally, at the end
Choosing Pseudostates in the Close-Coupling Formalism for the Electron—Atomic-Hydrogen System

A modified close-coupling formalism has been applied to the electron\char22{}atomic-hydrogen system. We investigate various possible choices of pseudostates which are used to augment the eigenfunction expansion. As a test of the appropriateness of these choices we have evaluated various bound and scattering properties of the electron\char22{}atomic-hydrogen system and have computed photodetachment cross sections for ${\mathrm{H}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ as well. We find that pseudostates which emphasize short-range interactions are superior to those which incorporate long-range polarization effects when one computes elastic scattering phase shifts in the nonresonant region below the $n=2$ threshold. Excellent photodetachment cross sections for ${\mathrm{H}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ are also obtained using initial and final states obtained from a modified close-coupling formalism which includes these short-range pseudostates.
Effort and the Functional Response of Deer Hunters

Managers of overabundant deer have failed to incorporate relevant predator-prey theory into management research. In particular, understanding the functional response of deer hunters (deer encountered/time) to declining deer density is important because functional responses determine relative effort (time/deer encountered) required to harvest a deer and may, in turn, influence hunter perceptions of deer density and costs associated with deer removal. We used information-theoretic techniques and nonlinear regression to reanalyze data from controlled hunts in Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Ontario. Alternate models include killing rates or sighting rates as Type 1 (linear), Type 2 (hyperbolic), or Type 3 (sigmoidal) functions of deer density. Akaike's information criteria suggested that optimal models for most data sets were Type 1, although this may have been a artifact of small sample sizes. Nonetheless, effort curves derived from fitted functional responses indicated that relative effort accelerates a...
Re-evaluation of the companion animal bonding scale

ABSTRACTThis study re-evaluated the Companion Animal Bonding Scale (Poresky, Hendrix, Mosier and Samuelson 1987) using a wide range of developmental levels. Participants included 714 individuals (284 boys and 430 girls) from fourth grade to undergraduate college status. The elementary, middle, and high school students were enrolled in a public school system in a large metropolitan area and the college students were enrolled in a medium size state university. The sample included 600 Caucasians and 114 members of other ethnic groups. Only responses from current pet owners (n=610) were included in data analysis. Analysis of the Companion Animal Bonding Scale revealed three factors related to human-animal attachment: (1) emotional bond/affectional tie, (2) physical proximity, and (3) caretaking. The caretaking factor found in this study differs from the third factor (animal responsiveness and autonomy) reported by Poresky et al. (1987). The three factors in this study also differ somewhat from those reported ...
MS-FLUKSS and Its Application to Modeling Flows of Partially Ionized Plasma in the Heliosphere

Flows of partially ionized plasma are frequently characterized by the presence of both thermal and nonthermal populations of ions. This occurs, e. g., in the outer heliosphere -- the part of interstellar space beyond the solar system whose properties are determined by the solar wind (SW) interaction with the local interstellar medium (LISM). Understanding the behavior of such flows requires us to investigate a variety of physical phenomena occurring throughout the solar system. These include charge exchange processes between neutral and charged particles, the birth of pick-up ions (PUIs), the origin of energetic neutral atoms (ENAs), SW turbulence, etc. Collisions between atoms and ions in the heliospheric plasma are so rare that they should be modeled kinetically. PUIs born when LISM neutral atoms charge-exchange with SW ions represent a hot, non-equilibrium component and also require a kinetic treatment. The behavior of PUIs at the SW termination shock (TS) is of major importance for the interpretation of the puzzling data from the Voyager 1 and 2 spacecraft, which are now the only in situ space mission intended to investigate the boundary of the solar system. We have recently proposed an explanation of the sky-spanning "ribbon" of unexpectedly intense emissions of ENAs detected by the Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) mission. Numerical solution of these problems with the realistic boundary conditions provided by remote and in situ observations of the SW properties, requires the application of adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) technologies and petascale supercomputers. Supported by the NSF ITR program and various NASA projects, we have implemented these in our Multi-Scale FLUid-Kinetic Simulation Suite, which is a collection of problem-oriented routines incorporated into the Chombo AMR framework. For the next 5--10 years, heliophysics research is faced with an extraordinary opportunity that cannot be soon repeated. This is to make in situ measurements of the SW from the Sun to the heliospheric boundaries and, at the same time, extract information about the global behavior of the evolving heliosphere through ENA observations by IBEX. In this paper, we describe the application of new possibilities provided within our Extreme Science and Engineering Discovery Environment (XSEDE) project to model challenging space physics and astrophysics problems. We used XSEDE supercomputers to analyze flows of magnetized, rarefied, partially-ionized plasma, where neutral atoms experience resonant charge exchange and collisions with ions. We modeled the SW flows in the inner and outer heliosphere and compared our results with in situ measurements performed by the ACE, IBEX, and Voyager spacecraft.
The growing family of myosin motors and their role in neurons and sensory cells

Abstract Biochemical and physiological evidence has suggested that myosins, both conventional and unconventional, are critical for neurosensory activities. In the past few years, this premise has been supported by genetic evidence that has shown that unconventional myosins are essential for the proper functioning of neurons, retina andthe sensory cells of the inner ear.
Proficiency Requirement-Based and Nonproficiency Requirement-Based Second Language Programs; How Do Students Rate?.

This status study endeavors to answer the research questions: (1a) Are there differences between the performance of CLA students at the University of Minnesota and students of nonproficiency requirement-based programs at other institutions on the CLA Spanish Graduation Examination of all four modalities? Further, (1b) Are there differences between the performance of students from private institutions and those from public institutions? Because a random sample was not feasible at the time the tests were given it seemed necessary to ask (1c) Are there differences between the performance of volunteer groups and entire population groups? This article also deals with a reasonable extension to the original question, which is: (2) What might account for differentialevels of performance that the test scorn show? Although this study only includes Spanish students, the results should be applicable to other language programs. The testing instrument, the CLA Spanish Graduation Examination, which consists of four separate tests, one for each of the four modalities, was administered during Spring 1990. The results from these tests provide data which compare quantitative results on reading, listening, writing, and speaking proficiency of students from the proficiency requirement program at the University of Minnesota with those from six nonproficiency requirement programs at six other randomly selected postsecondary institutions within the state of Minnesota.
The identification of high explosives by microscopic fusion methods

Abstract Fusion methods are useful for the characterization and identification of fusible compounds in small groups or large. The method is most readily applied to small groups of compounds since simple morphological properties suffice for identification. In larger groups of compounds, melting points, refractive indices, and other more formal measurements must be made. In groups of fifty or fewer compounds it is usually possible to recognize almost at a glance any member of that group. The use of fusion methods ensures that a given compound will always show the same morphological characteristics, and the wide variety of crystal properties ensure quick and easy identification. The method is illustrated by application to the compounds known to be used as high explosives.
A mixed-mode crack analysis of rectilinear anisotropic solids

Abstract A simple numerical method is presented for analysing the mixed mode of rectilinear anisotropic solids. The method is formulated on the basis of a finite element and the crack closure integral approach in conjunction with fundamental relationships in fracture mechanics. A simple and efficient solution procedure is developed involving only the known auxiliary solution for evaluating the strain energy release rate. The finite element solution converges to an accurate solution for small crack extensions. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed approach.
FL-IDE: Hypertext for Structuring a Conceptual Design for Computer-Assisted Language Learning.

A compelling problem for language pedagogues is teaching foreign languages to students so they can retain and use the language skills in real communicative situations. One way to help students learn these skills is to understand and improve current pedagogical approaches to language learning. New technology such as Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) provides pedagogues with rich, multimedia environments for presenting instruction. At the same time, deciding what to present and how to organize the instruction in CALL provides a new challenge. In response to this problem, we discuss preliminary results of a research effort for developing an instructional design environment (IDE) that is uniquely tailored to the needs of developing foreign language instruction. Hypertext features in the IDE software are used to capture and organize into one coherent framework the corpora of theoretical, instructional, and content material that affects foreign language instruction.
The Organization of lawyers' Work: Size, Intensity, and Co‐Practice of the Fields of Law

Using data from personal interviews with 777 Chicago lawyers, constituting a random cross section of the urban bar, the authors estimate the relative volumes of effort devoted to each of several fields of law, analyze the degree to which practitioners specialize in fields or groups of fields, and examine the patterns of co-practice of the fields. They find that the total effort of the Chicago bar is about evenly divided between work for corporate clients and work for individual clients. They also suggest that, while relatively few lawyers are highly specialized to a particular doctrinal area of the law, most are specialized to the service of the needs of a particular type of client. Exploring possible implications of their findings, the authors speculate that lawyers who are specialized to clients rather than to substantive fields may lack the incentive to devote their resources to the rationalization of legal doctrine.
Gender Differences in Coping and Control with Memory Aging

ABSTRACT This secondary analysis of data from a large study of memory perceptions among the elderly examined gender differences in control, coping, health, and metamemory and explored the influence of these factors on anxiety and depression in the elderly. Adults 55 years of age and older, 128 female and 41 males, were recruited from continuing education programs in two Southern states. Females were older than males and reported that their memories were better overall than males. There were no differences between the groups in depression, health, or memory control variables. Females had significantly greater state anxiety than males but no differences were seen in domain-specific memory anxiety or other metamemory domains. Females scored higher than males on help-seeking, existential growth, religiosity, and total coping strategies. In the two regression models the set of study variables predicted 79% of the variance in depression and 15% of the variance in memory anxiety. The addition of perceived health...
Newborn screening for severe combined immunodeficiency; the Wisconsin experience (2008-2011).

Severe combined immunodeficiency is a life-threatening primary immune deficiency characterized by low numbers of naive T cells. Early diagnosis and treatment of this disease decreases mortality. In 2008, Wisconsin began newborn screening of infants for severe combined immunodeficiency and other forms of T-cell lymphopenia by the T-cell receptor excision circle assay. In total, 207,696 infants were screened. Seventy-two infants had an abnormal assay. T-cell numbers were normal in 38 infants, abnormal in 33 infants, and not performed in one infant, giving a positive predictive value for T-cell lymphopenia of any cause of 45.83% and a specificity of 99.98%. Five infants with severe combined immunodeficiency/severe T-cell lymphopenia requiring hematopoietic stem cell transplantation or other therapy were detected. In summary, the T-cell receptor excision circle assay is a sensitive and specific test to identify infants with severe combined immunodeficiency and severe T-cell lymphopenia that leads to life-saving therapies such as hematopoietic stem cell transplantation prior to the acquisition of severe infections.
Turbulent mixing of a jet in a coflowing stream.

Turbulent mixing of injected jet with coflowing outer stream, using finite difference treatment for equations of motion
Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS): A Tool for Evaluating Student Learning?

Abstract To evaluate the usefulness of two DIBELS subtests (Phonemic Segmentation Fluency and Nonsense Word Fluency), 107 kindergartners and 101 first-graders who had taken the DIBELS were given a writing-of-words task and the Slosson Oral Reading Test of sight words. In addition, the 1st-graders' DIBELS included an Oral Reading Fluency subtest that assessed students' ability to get meaning from a five-paragraph composition. After analyzing the relationships between scores on each DIBELS subtest and other variables, it was concluded that no evidence was found to justify the use of the DIBELS for the evaluation of a literacy instructional program.
Structure and function of the yeast URA3 gene differentially regulated expression of hybrid β-galactosidase from overlapping coding sequences in yeast

Expression of the URA3 gene of Saccharomyces cerevisiae was studied by analysis of URA3-lacZ gene fusions constructed in vitro. Synthesis of hybrid β-galactosidase by fusions in frame with the coding sequence for orotidine-5′-phosphate decarboxylase (OMPdecarboxylase) was found to be normally regulated even when only 11 nucleotides of URA3 coding sequence remained, indicating that all transcription initiation and regulatory sites are present at the beginning of the URA3 gene. An upstream initiator codon that begins a short overlapping coding sequence in another reading frame was also found to be active in producing hybrid β-galactosidase. However this β-galactosidase synthesis showed little or no regulation. Nuclease protection experiments revealed numerous species of URA3 mRNA. The regulation of these is consistent with the idea that the URA3 protein and the overlapping peptide are translated from differentially regulated mRNAs of different lengths.
Structure of a split gas flame

Abstract An experimental study of the effect of the burner exit velocity profile on the liftoff and reattachment characteristics of a gas jet flame is presented. With a set of tubes attached to a contoured nozzle, flat and rounded velocity profiles are generated at the burner mouth. With flat profiles flames liftoff at the burner mouth itself, whereas with rounded profiles extinction begins at higher levels and leads to the formation of split flames . The measured temperature, dynamic head, and concentration profiles at the extinction regions are presented in conjunction with schlieren photographs to discuss the effects of flow structure on the flame stability characteristics.
Ion-Molecule Reactions in Volatile Silanes

Etude des reactions ions positifs-molecule, ions negatifs-molecule. Formation de complexes de collision
Response of Hepatic Glucokinase and Glucose-6-phosphatase Activities in Juvenile and Adult Hyperthyroid Mice

The effects of intraperitoneal injections of triiodothyronine (0.03, 0.30, 3.0 5/day) on hepatic glucokinase and glucose-6-phosphatase activities were tested in juvenile and adult mice. In hyperthyroid mice glucokinase activity increased above controls and glucose-6-phosphatase activity decreased slightly below controls. By comparing phosphorylating activity (glucokinase) to dephosphorylating activity (glucose-6-phosphatase), it was found that hyperthyroid mice had greater hepatic glucose phosphorylating activity than euthyroid mice. This may indicate a greater capacity for glucose utilization than production. The hepatic enzyme responses to triiodothyronine (T3) in juveniles were greater than in adults. Results were interpreted in relation to the calorigenic action of thyroid hormone. T3 effects were also related to effects of other hormones on blood glucose availability and utilization and to probable ontogenetic changes in hepatic glucose metabolism. (Endocrinology 87: 124, 1970) ALTHOUGH the thyroid h...
Dynamical diffraction explanation of the anomalous transmission of light through metallic gratings

In this paper, it is pointed out that the light transmission anomalies observed for thin-film metallic gratings can be explained entirely in terms of dynamical diffraction theory. Surface plasmons are an intrinsic component of the diffracted wave field and, as such, play no independent causal role in the anomalies, as has been implied by others. The dynamical scattering matrix for the Bloch-wave modes of the diffracted photon wave field (E, H) is derived for a three-dimensionally periodic medium with arbitrary dielectric constant. A new theoretical treatment and numerical results are presented for a one-dimensional array of slits. In model metallic slit arrays, with negative dielectric constant, 100% and 0% transmission is possible at different wavelengths in the zero-order beam. In slit arrays, both propagating and evanescent modes (traditional surface plasmons) are strongly excited at both the peak and the minimum transmission conditions.
Layer-specific innervation of the dopamine-deficient frontal cortex in weaver mutant mice by grafted mesencephalic dopaminergic neurones.

The dopamine innervation of the frontal cortex originates in the A9 and A10 mesencephalic dopamine cell groups. In weaver mutant mice, there is a 77% frontocortical dopamine deficiency associated with losses of dopamine neurones in areas A9 and A10. The dopamine-depleted cortical areas of weaver mutant mice are receptive to reinnervation by afferent fibres originating in dopamine-containing mesencephalic grafts from normal donor embryos. In the anteromedial frontal lobe, reinnervation by tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactive fibres is largely confined to the basal cortical layers whereas in the anterior cingulate cortex, tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactive fibres also occupy superficial layers, including the molecular layer. Normally, the dopaminergic innervation of the anteromedial frontal lobe is distributed among the basal cortical layers (IV–VI), and the dopaminergic innervation of the cingulate cortex occupies both basal and superficial cortical layers. The pattern of innervation following transplantation indicates that, in repopulating dopamine-deficient cortical areas of recipient weaver mutants, graft-derived dopamine fibres show a preference for those layers which are normally invested by dopamine afferents.
The expression of affection: Suggestions for research with developmentally disabled children

Abstract Some developmentally disabled children may not receive or express as much affection as normal children because of the physical limitations imposed by their handicaps, severe behavior problems, lack of responsiveness, caregiver discouragement, and family stress. Suggestions for research on this crucial but neglected subject are presented based on a review of pertinent literature from the fields of behavior analysis, child development, and special education. Four major topics are addressed: (a) impact of disabilities on the expression of affection; (b) assessment of attachment; (c) reinforcement function of affection; and (d) procedures to teach and encourage the expression of affection. Research on factors which affect the expression of affection could contribute to the effectiveness of teaching and treatment programs and the enjoyment developmentally disabled children and their caregivers experience in their interactions.
TH‐C‐BRA‐03: Online Adaptive Radiotherapy: Are We Ready?

With rapid deployment of image‐guidedradiation therapy(IGRT), evidence is mounting that daily variations in patient's anatomy can be quite complicated. A simple couch shift will not be able to correct all non‐rigid changes in patient's anatomy. Adaptive radiotherapy is a replanning process to manage temporal changes in patient's anatomy or tumor biology. Adaptive radiotherapy can be based on either morphological changes or physiological changes during a treatment course. In addition, adaptive radiotherapy can be applied either online or offline. The potential clinical benefit for online adaptive radiotherapy depends on (1) the size (dose level) of treatment fraction; (2) the length of adaptive treatment process; (3) the probability and magnitude for intra‐fraction variations; and (4) the predictability for such variations in future treatment fractions. Online vs. offline corrections will be discussed along with anatomical and functional image‐guided adaptive radiotherapy approaches. While technology appears to be the primary obstacle in the present time, the image‐guided adaptive radiotherapy process is a natural extension of image‐guided conformal radiotherapy. Practical issues in deploying adaptive radiotherapy in routine clinical practice will be discussed using institution's experience in several prospectively designed treatment protocols. The learning objectives are: 1. Demonstrate limitations of IGRT and benefits of adaptive radiotherapy 2. Understand various forms of adaptive radiotherapy 3. Understand various factors when choosing adaptive radiotherapy 4. Discuss practical issues related to clinical implementation
Computing optimal boundary controls of a plate by the boundary element method

In recent development of adaptive optics, the problem of shape control of a reflecting mirror is studied. Assume that the mirror is modelled by a thin elastostatic plate. At certain interior points of the plate a number of sensors are located which measure the deformation at those points. We wish to apply boundary controls to the plate so that the sensory data are as close to the prescribed values as possible. In this paper we present a boundary element method to approximate optimal boundary controls for a quadratic cost problem. The method has been tested to have high accuracy and efficiency. Numerical results are also presented.
An automated procedure for the simultaneous determination of specific conductance and pH in natural water samples

Abstract An automated, continuous-flow system is utilized to determine specific conductance and pH simultaneously in natural waters. A direct electrometric procedure is used to determine values in the range pH 4–9. The specific conductance measurements are made with an electronically modified, commercially available conductivity meter interfaced to a separate module containing the readout control devices and printer. The system is designed to switch ranges automatically to accommodate optimum analysis of widely varying conductances ranging from a few μmhos cm -1 to 15,000 μmho cm -1 . Thirty samples per hour can be analyzed. Comparison of manual and automated procedures for 40 samples showed that the average differences were 1.3% for specific conductance and 0.07 units for pH. The relative standard deviation for 25 replicate values for each of five samples was significantly less than 1% for the specific conductance determination; the standard deviation for the pH determination was ⩽ 0.06 pH units.
Expression and activities of matrix metalloproteinases under oscillatory shear in IL-1-stimulated synovial cells.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are known to play a critical role in tissue disintegration, and an elevated level of MMPs is observed in synovium and synovial fluid of joints with rheumatoid arthritis. During joint movement, synovial tissue receives various mechanical stimuli, but effects of mechanical challenges on regulation of MMPs in rheumatic synovium are poorly understood. Focusing on cellular responses to oscillatory fluid shear in human synovial cells, we determined the expression of MMP-1 and MMP-13 by polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting as well as proteolytic activities of total MMPs by a fibril degradation assay and zymography. The results revealed that ~0.5 dyn/cm 2 oscillatory shear at 1 Hz not only reduced an mRNA level and a protein level of MMP-1 and MMP-13, but it also decreased collagenase and gelatinase activities of total MMPs. Furthermore, the induction of the MMP expression and activities by interleukin-1 was suppressed by the oscillatory shear. Interestingly, the oscillato...
The Ca2+ binding protein, frequenin is a nervous system-specific protein in mouse preferentially localized in neurites

Abstract Frequenin is a Ca 2+ -binding protein that has been implicated in the regulation of neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction [15, 16] . However, its cellular and subcellular localization in brain have not been determined. Therefore, we cloned mouse frequenin (Mfreq) and investigated its expression both in vivo and in vitro. The amino acid sequence of Mfreq is homologous to that of frequenins from other species. Northern and Western blot analyses indicated that the Mfreq mRNA is a single species of 4.2 kb, and that the protein has a mass of 24 kDa protein on SDS gel, respectively. Expression of Mfreq is nervous system specific. However, Mfreq mRNA and protein are widely distributed in the brain, spinal cord, and dorsal root ganglia. Mfreq is expressed in early embryonic brain and the levels of Mfreq remain high throughout development. In situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry demonstrated that Mfreq is expressed primarily in neurons and presumptive astrocytes. The Mfreq protein was preferentially localized in neurites (dendrites and axons). Double immunofluorescence microscopy established that Mfreq was co-localized with the dendritic marker, MAP-2 and the synapse marker, SV2 in cultured hippocampal neurons. The distribution and subcellular localization of Mfreq may help understand its cellular function.
Polyacrylamide phantom for self-actuating needle-tissue interaction studies.

Abstract This study presents a polyacrylamide gel as a phantom material for needle insertion studies specifically developed for self-actuating needles to enhance the precise placement of needles in prostate. Bending of these self-actuating needles within tissue is achieved by Nitinol actuators attached to the needle body; however these actuators usually involve heating that can thermally damage the tissue surrounding the needles. Therefore, to develop and access feasibility of these needles, a polyacrylamide gel has been developed that mimics the thermal damage and mechanical properties of prostate tissue. Mechanical properties of the polyacrylamide gel was controlled by varying the concentrations of acrylamide monomer and N , N -methylene-bisacrylamide (BIS) cross-linker, and thermal sensitivity was achieved by adding bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein. Two polyacrylamide gels with different concentrations were developed to mimic the elastic modulus of the tissue. The two phantoms showed different rupture toughness and different deflection of bevel-tip needle. To study the thermal damage, a Nitinol wire was embedded in the phantom and resistively heated. The measured opaque zone (0.40mm) formed around the wire was close to the estimated damage zone (0.43mm) determined using the cumulative equivalent minutes at 43°C.
Decentralized Communication for Data Dependency Analysis Among Process Execution Agents

This paper presents the authors results with the investigation of decentralized data dependency analysis among concurrently executing processes in a service-oriented environment. Distributed Process Execution Agents PEXAs are responsible for controlling the execution of processes that are composed of web services. PEXAs are also associated with specific distributed sites for the purpose of capturing data changes that occur at those sites in the context of service executions using Delta-Enabled Grid Services. PEXAs then exchange this information with other PEXAs to dynamically discover data dependencies that can be used to enhance recovery activities for concurrent processes that execute with relaxed isolation properties. This paper outlines the functionality of PEXAs, describing the data structures, algorithms, and communication mechanisms that are used to support decentralized construction of distributed process dependency graphs, demonstrating a more dynamic and intelligent approach to identifying how the failure of one process can potentially affect other concurrently executing processes.
Direct versus indirect pathways of salmon-derived nutrient incorporation in experimental lotic food webs

The objective of our study was to examine how salmon carcass subsidization through alternative trophic pathways affected stream food web productivity. Three salmon carcass treatments (dissolved carcass nutrients only, dissolved carcass nutrients + carcass material, and a carcass-free control) were replicated five times in artificial stream channels. We quantified changes in water chemistry and the production of periphyton, macroinvertebrates, and age 0+ steelhead trout (i.e., sea-run rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss) over 65 days. Dissolved ammonium and periphyton chlorophyll a concentrations increased for an approximate 2-week period in both carcass-augmented treatments. However, there was no commensurate effect on periphyton ash-free dry mass. Total macroinvertebrate biomass was significantly greater in the presence of nutrients + material after 65 days, but no such increase was observed in response to the addition of dissolved nutrients only. Despite modest and inconsistent effects at lower trophic l...
Misuse of the Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction probability scale in toxicology

AbstractContext. When an adverse event occurs in an overdose patient, it may be difficult to determine whether the event was caused by the ingested drug or by medical therapy. Naranjo et al. developed a probability scale, the Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Scale (Naranjo Scale), to assess the probability that a drug administered in therapeutic doses caused an adverse event thereby classifying the event as an adverse drug reaction (ADR). Although Naranjo et al. specifically excluded the application of this scale to adverse events in overdose patients, case reports demonstrate that authors continue to apply the Naranjo Scale to events in these patients. Objective. The World Health Organization defines an ADR as occurring only when drugs are administered in therapeutic doses. Yet ADRs continue to be reported in overdose patients. We sought to examine the use of the Naranjo scale in case reports of overdose patients to assess the potential consequences of that application. Methods. A Medline search...
Structure elucidation by NMR spectroscopy of saccharolidin A, a novel antiparasitic macrolide from Saccharothrix aerocolonigenes

The structure of saccharolidin A, C38H60O9, a macrolide with antiparasitic properties isolated from Saccharothrix aerocolonigenes, was determined by two-dimensional NMR using a fragment-directed approach. Complete elucidation of the structure required concerted application of a range of homo- and heteronuclear experiments (TOCSY, ROESY, HMQC, HMBC, HMQC-TOCSY). Saccharolidin A is related to the hygrolides but contains a number of unique features which distinguish it from previously reported members of this family. It is unsubstituted on C-2 and contains both a 1,3-dioxepane ring and an unsubstituted n-pentyl side-chain. The relative stereochemistry within each of the three groups of contiguous chiral centres has been determined.
Effects of weed and erosion control on communities of soil mites (Oribatida and Gamasina) in short-rotation willow plantings in central New York

Several pre-emergent herbicides (azafenidin, oxyfluorfen, and imazaquin–pendimethalin mixture), used for weed control during the establishment of short-rotation willow plantings, were tested for their impact on population density, species richness, and community structure of predaceous (Gamasina) and saprophagous and (or) mycophagous (Oribatida) soil mites. The experimental control was hand-weeded (no herbicide). Two site preparation treatments were used: conventional (disked) and erosion controlled (no-till with cover crop of winter rye). The influence of herbicide application on non-target organisms (soil mites) cannot be generalized, with groups being differentially affected. Overall, Oribatida were most affected by herbicides. Among specific herbicides, azafenidin and oxyfluorfen had a negative effect on density and species richness of soil mites. The response of Oribatida and Gamasina to herbicides was species-specific. Two species of Oribatida (Sellnickochthonius immaculatus (Forsslund) and Liochtho...
Anionic polymerization initiators containing protected functional groups and functionally terminated diene polymers

Organolithium reagents substituted with hydroxyl-carrying mixed acetals (i.e., tetra-hydropyranyl and α-ethoxyethyl ethers) have been prepared in high yields and used to polymerize 1,3-butadiene to various acetal-terminated polybutadiene polymers. A method is described for converting acetal-containing polymers into hydroxyl-containing polymers. The polybutadienes have been characterized with regard to endgroup types, quantitative functionalities, molecular weights, molecular weight distributions, and microstructures. Dihydroxyl terminated polymers are prepared anionically in the absence of gel. Such materials are more suitable from the standpoint of f(OH) and Mw/Mn for chain extension studies than are prepolymers prepared by radical methods.
Antecedents of Ethical Consumption Activities in Germany and the United States

This study developed an index of ethical consumption activities, applied it to samples of young consumers from Germany (n=225) and the United States (n=267), and explored the role of national cultu...