cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of the Impact of Intergenerational Programming on the Physical Well-Being of Participants in Adult Day Services

This research article uses qualitative analysis to examine perceptions held by participants of adult day services about the impact of intergenerational programming on their physical well-being. During analysis two typologies, contact and engaged, emerge based on levels of involvement. The members of these two groups perceive the effects of intergenerational programming on their physical well-being differently.
Inorganic mercury movements across the perfused guinea pig placenta in late gestation.

Since most studies of mercury transfer to the fetus are confounded by an inability to separate fetal uptake from placental transport, mercury transport across perfused guinea pig placentas (61 to 63 days gestation) was measured in situ. The fetal side of the placenta was perfused at rates ranging from 0.49 to 4.10 ml/min. The dam was injected iv with trace quantities of tritiated water (to indicate changes in maternal blood flow to the placenta) and radiolabeled mercury in the form of mercuric chloride. Maternal plasma and perfusate samples were analyzed for radiolabeled mercury and tritiated water after corrections were made for net water flow by using radioiodinated serum albumin. The clearance of tritiated water was a linear function of perfusion rate described for the pooled data from all perfusions by the equation: y = 0.67 + 1.61x, where y is tritium clearance and x is perfusion rate. No significant relationships between radiomercury clearance and perfusion rate were detected in this study. The clearance of radiolabeled mercury measured 0.012 +- 0.001 ml/min (mean +- SE), at least one order of magnitude less than previously reported values of methylmercury clearance (p < 0.001). The differences in clearances between organic and inorganic mercurymore » were sufficiently great to account for reported differenced in fetal absorption of organic and inorganic mercury.« less
Comparison of Lipid Content and Fatty Acid Composition and Their Distribution within Seeds of 5 Small Grain Species

Barley, oats, rice, sorghum, and wheat, each with two genotypes, were sequentially abraded by an electric seed scarifier. The pearling fines (PF) and pearled kernels (PK) at each cycle were analyzed for lipid (mostly nonpolar) content and fatty acid (FA) composition. The oil content in whole or dehulled grains ranged from 2.18% of a wheat variety to 6.38% of an oat line. Compared with barley and wheat, rice, oat, and sorghum had higher relative % of C18:1 (31.60 to 36.64 compared with 12.15 to 15.61) and lower % of C18:2 (35.69 to 45.44 compared with 50.79 to 61.50). The relationship between oil content in PF and the cumulative level of surface removal essentially describes the distribution pattern of oil content within a seed. Barley, rice, and sorghum had a similar distribution pattern, characterized by a rapid rate of decreasing for the first few outer layers and then by gradual decrease to a flat value toward the inner core. In contrast, distribution within oats was characterized by a gradual reduction in oil content across the seed. The distribution of oil within wheat fell between the former 2 types. For all 10 grains, from seed surface to inner core, C16:0 and C18:0 increased, C18:1 and C18:3 decreased, and C18:2 changed slightly, providing a new reason for improved oxidative stability for pearled kernels. The differences in the changing intensity of FA composition among grain species correspond to those in oil distribution within a seed, while varietal difference in distribution patterns of content and FA composition of lipids within a species was insignificant.
Histogenesis of the deep cerebellar nuclei in the mouse: an autoradiographic study

Summary In order to tag cells when they arise, pregnant mice were injected usually once or in some cases multiple times at a known time of gestation with tritiated thymidine. The offspring were killed and their brains prepared for autoradiography. Distribution of labeled cells was plotted using a drawing apparatus. Neurons of the deep cerebellar nuclei arise on gestation days 10–17. (Later periods were not studied). Most neurons arise on gestation day 11. Many medium and small sized neurons arise after gestation day 11 with a limited number of small neurons observed to arise through the 17th day. Neurons for all parts of the complex arise at the same time, thus no gradients could be established.
Computation and scaling of inductance gradients in electromagnetic launch systems

When a pulsed electric potential is applied to the terminals of a sliding electrical contact system, the armature translates under the influence of Lorentz forces caused by diffusing currents. The inductance gradient is conventionally used as a parameter to quantify the total Lorentz force acting on the armature and size the systems. The determination of the variation of the inductance gradient with system parameters such as the dimensions of the rails and armature, and the ramp rate of the applied potential is of interest in the design of sliding electrical contact systems with specified objectives. It is also useful in scaling results from laboratory to fieldable systems. The inductance gradient can be calculated with finite-element analyses using codes such as EMAP3D; this will be a time-consuming process. Semi-analytical formulations are possible for systems with simple and regular geometries such as rectangular sections. Solutions of the field diffusion equation can be expressed as a weighted sum of eigen functions characteristic of the geometry with imposed boundary conditions. A semi-analytical formulation based on eigen functions is presented here for computing and scaling inductance gradients of a sliding electrical contact system with rectangular rails and armatures. The effects of the dimensions of the rails and armatures, and the effect of the external ramp rate of the applied current on the inductance gradients are studied. The results are compared with available computational and experimental data.
Electric-dipole 4fn–4fn transition intensity parametrizations for lanthanides: sensitivity analysis of multiple local minima

Abstract Parametrizations of one-photon electric-dipole transitions between crystal-field levels of the 4f n configuration of lanthanide ions often result in multiple local minima that fit the data nearly equally well. This is especially true for structurally complex systems containing lanthanide ions, such as the oxydiacetate single crystals Na 3 [Ln(oda) 3 ]·2NaClO 4 ·6H 2 O (commonly abbreviated as LnODA). Through a detailed reexamination of the previously well-studied EuODA system, we investigate the seriousness of the multiple local minima problem. Parameter robustness is determined by means of an analysis of the sensitivity of the local minima with respect to perturbation of the energy-level wavefunctions and intensity strengths. Inclusion of rotatory strengths is shown to greatly reduce the number of local minima that must be considered.
Advanced epithelial ovarian cancer: Toxicity of whole abdominal irradiation after operation, combination chemotherapy, and reoperation

Thirty-five patients with advanced ovarian cancer have received, as salvage therapy, irradiation consisting of 30 Gy to the entire abdominal contents with partial liver/kidney shielding and boosts to 42 and 51 Gy for the paraaortic/diaphragmatic and pelvic regions, respectively. These patients had received 6 to 25 cycles (median, 11 cycles) of prior combination chemotherapy (included cisplatin in 30), with "second-look" laparotomy performed in 33; 24 (68%) had three or more laparotomies. Acute gastrointestinal toxicity was generally mild. Significant hematologic toxicity (leukocytes less than 2000/mm3; or platelets less than 100,000/mm3) was seen in 19 (54%); platelet suppression occurred in 18 of these 19. Nine patients failed to complete the prescribed course of therapy; in seven, this was secondary to hematologic toxicity. Amount of prior chemotherapy and advanced age correlated with degree of hematologic toxicity. Five patients without evidence of disease (laparotomy confirmed) have developed treatment-related bowel obstruction. No other chronic toxicity of clinical significance has been observed. Seven patients have developed bowel obstruction associated with progressive neoplasm. Irradiation was well tolerated symptomatically, but hematologic toxicity associated with prior chemotherapy prevented its completion in 20% of patients. Clinical manifestations of radiation bowel toxicity have been moderate to date and should be interpreted in the context of the aggressive combined modality program.
Abstract 3859: Multivalency of non-peptide integrinαVβ3antagonist slows tumor growth

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL To date, more than 200 angiogenesis inhibitors have been reported. These include only a few antiangiogenic peptide drugs. In addition, many molecules upregulated on angiogenic endothelial cells have been explored in the past decades. One of these is integrin αvβ3, which recognizes RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) motifs in extracellular protein components. Targeting the αvβ3 integrin with drugs may provide an opportunity to destroy tumor vessels without harmful effects on microvessels of normal tissues. Multivalency is a strategy for increasing the binding affinity of compounds ostensibly to increase their potency or imaging potential. Surprisingly, multivalent versions of successful drugs showing enhanced binding have not always demonstrated enhanced therapeutic efficacy. For example, multivalent RGDs have not generally shown better therapeutic efficacy. In our study, we prepared a multivalent nonpeptide integrin αvβ3 antagonist (multivalent IA, 4-[2-(3,4,5,6-tetrahydropyrimidine-2-ylamino)ethyloxy]benzoyl-2-(S)-aminoethylsulfonyl-amino-halanine monomer, dimer and trimer) for anti-tumor therapy. The anti-tumor efficacies of the IA multivalent compounds were evaluated in B16F10 melanoma tumor-bearing mice. Tumors were inoculated subcutaneously and allowed to progress before treating. IA compounds were given by intraperitoneal injection every 12 hours for 14 days. It was observed that 30 mg/kg of IA-trimer showed higher antitumor efficacy and lower toxicity compared to IA-Monomer and IA-Dimer, as shown by changes in tumor volume against control group (IA-Trimer, 32.05 % > IA-Dimer, 45.33 % > IA-Monomer 59.29 %). Based on these results, we conclude that the success of a multivalent strategy depends on the details of the individual components and how they are put together. This may be the first αvβ3 multivalent ligand showing clear enhancement in anti-tumor effectiveness. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3859. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3859
Multimodal Composition and Social Justice: Videos as a Tool of Advocacy in Social Work Pedagogy

In response to emerging active learning strategies, educators throughout the academy are inviting students to create videos and circulate them on social media platforms. The learning benefits of multimodal video composition are manifold, particularly within social work education. Video composition fosters critical thinking, encourages collaboration, and engages audiences that extend beyond the college classroom. Furthermore, when social work students produce videos, they develop technological literacy that prepares them to enter a field with an express commitment to social justice. In this article, we outline the interwoven pedagogical and ideological rationales for implementing video composition assignments in social work classes. Having established a framework for active learning through video composition, we address some pragmatic challenges of multimodal assignments, demonstrate the potential for videos to become tools for social advocacy, and draw connections between technological literacy and practi...
Anisotropic magnetoresistance in ferromagnetic 3d alloys

The anisotropic magnetoresistance effect in 3d transition metals and alloys is reviewed. This effect, found in ferromagnets, depends on the orientation of the magnetization with respect to the electric current direction in the material. At room temperature, the anisotropic resistance in alloys of Ni-Fe and Ni-Co can be greater than 5%. The theoretical basis takes into account spin orbit coupling and d band splitting. Other properties such as permeability, magnetostriction, and Hall voltage have no simple relationship to magnetoresistance. Anisotropic magnetoresistance has an important use as a magnetic field detector for digital recording and magnetic bubbles. Such detectors because of their small size are fabricated using thin film technology. Film studies show that thickness, grain size, and deposition parameters play a significant role in determining the percentage change in magnetoresistance. In general, the change is smaller in films than bulk materials. Several tables and graphs that list bulk and film data are presented.
Target-strength measurements of hake and jack mackerel

Target-strength (TS) measurements of dispersed shoals of jack mackerel (Trachurus symmetricus murphyi Nichols), Chilean hake (Merluccius gayi Guichenot), and southern hake (Merluccius australis Hutton) were made using a 38 kHz split-beam echo-sounder. TS and length distributions were obtained from night hauls taken with midwater and bottom trawls. The estimated regressions for the TS and fish length relationships indicated that TS was proportional to the squared length, using a least-squares linear regression fitted between TS and log fish length.
Resolvers Revealed: Characterizing DNS Resolvers and their Clients

The Domain Name System (DNS) allows clients to use resolvers, sometimes called caches, to query a set of authoritative servers to translate host names into IP addresses. Prior work has proposed using the interaction between these DNS resolvers and the authoritative servers as an access control mechanism. However, while prior work has examined the DNS from many angles, the resolver component has received little scrutiny. Essential factors for using a resolver in an access control system, such as whether a resolver is part of an ISP’s infrastructure or running on an end-user’s system, have not been examined. In this study, we examine DNS resolver behavior and usage, from query patterns and reactions to nonstandard responses to passive association techniques to pair resolvers with their client hosts. In doing so, we discover evidence of security protocol support, misconfigured resolvers, techniques to fingerprint resolvers, and features for detecting automated clients. These measurements can influence the implementation and design of these resolvers and DNS-based access control systems.
MULTIPLE GENE SITES FOR 5S AND 18 + 28S RNA ON CHROMOSOMES OF GLYPTOTENDIPES BARBIPES (STAEGER)

Ribosomal RNAs (28 + 18S and 5S) and 4S RNA extracted from the chironomid Glyptotendipes barbipes were iodinated in vitro with 125I and hybridized to the salivary gland chromosomes of G. barbipes and Drosophila melanogaster. Iodinated 18 + 28 S RNA labeled three puffed sites with associated nucleoli on chromosomes IR, IIL, and IIIL of G. barbipes and the nucleolar organizer of Drosophila. Labeled 5S RNA hybridized to three sites on chromosome IIIR, two sites on chromosome IIR and one site in a Balbiani ring on chromosome IV of Glyptotendipes. Most of the label produced by this RNA was localized seven bands away from the centromere on the right arm of chromosome III, and we consider this to be the main site complementary to 5S RNA in the chironomid. This same RNA preparation specifically labeled the 56 EF region of chromosome IIR of Drosophila which has been shown previously to be the only site labeled when hybridized with homologous 5S RNA. Hybridization of G. barbipes chromosomes with iodinated 4S RNA produced no clearly localized labeled sites over the exposure periods studied.
The effects of aerobic fitness on resting metabolic rate.

A cross-sectional study was designed to deter- mine the relationship between aerobic fitness and resting met- abolic rate (RMR) in 69 males exhibiting a wide range of aerobic fitness levels (VO2max = 32.8-78. 1 mL . kg� . min�). The re- sults ofthis study indicated that RMR was not significantly dif- ferent between trained and untrained individuals when expressed in Id . kg fat-free weight� . hror using an ANCOVA with fat- free weight as the covariate and RMR as the dependent variable (F ratio = 0.353, P < 0.70). In addition, this study also failed to support a previously suggested hypothesis that an elevated RMRmay only be observed in those individuals exhibiting both high VO2max values and currently training a minimum of 12- 16 h/wk. Thus, the results of this study strongly suggest that RMR is independent of both a person's current aerobic level and training status. Am J C/in Nutr 1992;55:795-801.
An L-band, LTCC frequency doubler using embedded lumped element filters

We have demonstrated an L-band frequency doubler (1.5 GHz, 33% BW) using an LTCC (low temperature co-fired ceramic) substrate. Lumped element filters were embedded in an LTCC carrier, providing greater than 10:1 footprint reduction over a previous single-layer hybrid implementation.
Testicular Leydig cells: differentiated cells responding to multiple hormonal control and producing varied products.

Leydig cells, traditionally known as the steroidogenic workhorses of the testis, are now known to synthesize significant amounts of non-steroid products including some potent bioactive proteins and peptides. These products are currently being investigated for their potential role in the paracrine regulation of spermatogenesis in the nearby seminiferous tubules and in the autocrine regulation of Leydig cell function.
Pacing hazards in helicopter aeromedical transport

Abstract A 62-year-old man with third-degree atrioventricular block and hemodynamically unstable ventricular tachycardia had a cardiac arrest during helicopter transport to a specialized cardiac care unit. Before transport, his ventricular tachycardia had been successfully terminated by a rapid overdrive pacing technique. The failure of “burst suppression” and the absence of pacer spike artifact on the electrocardiographic monitor raise questions about the potential hazards of using various pacing techniques during helicopter transports. Most significantly, this case points to the possibility of interference by exogenous electromagnetic signals in the medical compartment of the helicopter.
Scanning thermal microscopy of carbon nanotube electronic devices

Scanning probe microscopy techniques including scanning gate microscopy (SGM) and scanning thermal microscopy (SThM) have been used to investigate electron transport and energy dissipation mechanisms in single-walled carbon nanotube (CNT) electronic devices. An ultra thin (5-10 nm) layer of polystyrene was coated on the device to protect the CNT devices during thermal imaging. A first harmonic ac measurement SThM method has been developed to improve the signal-noise ratio. Our recent results reveal diffusive and dissipative charge transport in a semiconducting single-walled CNT at applied bias as low as 0.1 V. We have also observed uniform heat dissipation in a metallic single-walled carbon nanotube at applied biases above 0.4 V.
A hierarchical latent variable model for ordinal data from a customer satisfaction survey with no answer responses

Abstract We propose an item response theory model for ordinal customer satisfaction data where the probability of each response is a function of latent person and question parameters and of cutoffs for the ordinal response categories. This structure was incorporated into a Bayesian hierarchical model by Albert and Chib. We extend this formulation by modeling item nonresponse, coded as “no answer” (NA), as due to either lack of a strong opinion or indifference to the entire question. Because the probability of an NA is related to the latent opinion, the missing-data model is nonignorable. In our hierarchical Bayesian framework, prior means for the person and item effects are related to observed covariates. This structure supports model inferences about satisfaction of individual customers and about associations between customer characteristics and satisfaction levels or propensity to respond. We contrast this with exploratory and standard regression analyses that do not fully support these inferences. Our ...
A new stabilizer for ltv internal model based system and its application to camless engine valve actuation

This paper focuses on the stabilization of an internal model based control system for reference tracking/disturbance rejection, where the physical plant is linear time invariant while the generating dynamics of the reference/disturbance is time varying. Given the inevitable linear time varying (LTV) nature of the internal model unit resulting from the time varying generating dynamics, a critical problem to be addressed is the design of a low order and robust stabilizer for the entire augmented system. While a parameter-dependent output injection based stabilizer was introduced in our previous work, the new method proposed in this paper reduces the conservativeness in the control synthesis and thus enables a more effective control design especially for the problem involving LTI physical plant with LTV internal model dynamics. The proposed approach is then validated through experimental investigations on a camless engine valve actuation system, where robust and precise tracking performance is demonstrated.
New peptide inhibitors of type IB topoisomerases: similarities and differences vis a vis inhibitors of tyrosine recombinases

Topoisomerases relieve topological tension in DNA by breaking and rejoining DNA phosphodiester bonds. Type IB topoisomerases such as vaccinia topoisomerase (vTopo) and human topoisomerase I are structurally and mechanistically similar to the tyrosine recombinase family of enzymes, which includes bacteriophage lambda Integrase (Int). Previously, our laboratory identified peptide inhibitors of Int from a synthetic peptide combinatorial library. The most potent of these peptides also inhibit vTopo. Here, we used the same mixture-based screening procedure to identify peptide inhibitors directly against vTopo using a plasmid relaxation assay. The two most potent new peptides identified, WYCRCK and KCCRCK, inhibit plasmid relaxation, DNA cleavage and Holliday junction (HJ) resolution mediated by vTopo. The peptides tested bind double-stranded DNA at high concentrations but do not appear to displace the enzyme from its DNA substrate. WYCRCK binds specifically to HJ and perturbs the central base-pairing. This peptide also accumulates HJ intermediates when it inhibits Int-mediated recombination, whereas KCCRCK does not. Interestingly, WYCRCK shares four amino acids with a peptide identified against Int, WRWYCR. The octapeptide WRWYCRCK, containing amino acids from both hexapeptides, is more potent than either against vTopo. All peptides are less potent against the type IA Escherichia coli topoisomerase I or against restriction endonucleases. Like the Int-inhibitory peptide WRWYCR, WYCRCK binds to HJs, and both inhibit junction resolution by vTopo. Our results suggest that the newly identified WYCRCK and peptide WRWYCR interact with a distorted DNA intermediate arising during vTopo-mediated catalysis, or interfere with specific interactions between vTopo and DNA.
Detection of host habitat by parasitoids using cues associated with mycangial fungi of the mountain pine beetle, Dendroctonus ponderosae

Cues used by parasitoids to detect habitat of the mountain pine beetle, Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), were investigated by observing parasitoid attraction to logs infested with D. ponderosae, logs inoculated with one or both of the symbiotic fungi of D. ponderosae (Grosmannia clavigera (Rob.-Jeffr. & R.W. Davidson) Zipfel, Z.W. de Beer & M.J. Wingf. (Ophiostomataceae) and Ophiostoma montium (Rumbold) Arx (Ophiostomataceae)), logs containing no beetles or fungi, or empty screen cylinders. Captures of Heydenia unica Cook and Davis (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) and Rhopalicus pulchripennis (Crawford) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) on logs with both G. clavigera and O. montium were greater than those from control treatments. These results suggest that characteristics of tree tissues simultaneously colonized by the two symbiotic fungi facilitate a detectable change in the volatile compounds released from D. ponderosae-attacked trees that may be used by parasitoids to locate hosts.
Escherichia coli DNA Polymerase III τ- and γ-Subunit Conserved Residues Required for Activity In Vivo and In Vitro

The Escherichia coli DNA polymerase III τ and γ subunits are single-strand DNA-dependent ATPases (the latter requires the δ and δ′ subunits for significant ATPase activity) involved in loading processivity clamp β. They are homologous to clamp-loading proteins of many organisms from phages to humans. Alignment of 27 prokaryotic τ/γ homologs and 1 eukaryotic τ/γ homolog has refined the sequences of nine previously defined identity and functional motifs. Mutational analysis has defined highly conserved residues required for activity in vivo and in vitro. Specifically, mutations introduced into highly conserved residues within three of those motifs, the P loop, the DExx region, and the SRC region, inactivated complementing activity in vivo and clamp loading in vitro and reduced ATPase catalytic efficiency in vitro. Mutation of a highly conserved residue within a fourth motif, VIc, inactivated clamp-loading activity and reduced ATPase activity in vitro, but the mutant gene, on a multicopy plasmid, retained complementing activity in vivo and the mutant gene also supported apparently normal replication and growth as a haploid, chromosomal allele.
Hippocampal deep brain stimulation reverses physiological and behavioural deficits in a rodent model of schizophrenia

Subcortical dopamine system dysregulation has been suggested to underlie the positive symptoms of schizophrenia. Recent preclinical investigations and human imaging studies have proposed that the augmented dopamine system function observed in schizophrenia patients may be secondary to aberrant hippocampal activity. Thus, we posit that the hippocampus represents a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of schizophrenia. Here we provide evidence of the effectiveness of a unique approach aimed at decreasing hippocampal function in a rodent model of schizophrenia. Specifically, in a rodent model of schizophrenia, we demonstrate that ventral hippocampal (vHipp) deep brain stimulation (DBS) can normalize aberrant dopamine neuron activity and behaviours associated with positive symptoms. In addition, we provide evidence that this approach may also be effective in restoring deficits in cognitive function, often left unaltered by conventional antipsychotic medications. Therefore, we have provided initial preclinical evidence demonstrating the feasibility of hippocampal DBS as a potential novel approach for the treatment of schizophrenia.
Modafinil, but not escitalopram, improves working memory and sustained attention in long-term, high-dose cocaine users.

Objective The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of modafinil, escitalopram, and modafinil + escitalopram administration on neurocognition in a sample of long-term, high-dose cocaine users. Method Sixty-one cocaine-dependent individuals were randomly assigned to receive placebo (n = 14), modafinil, 200 mg, once daily (n = 16), escitalopram, 20 mg, once daily (n = 16), or modafinil and escitalopram, once daily (n = 15), for five days on an inpatient basis. Urinanalysis was used to confirm abstinence from cocaine on the day of admission and the next five days. Baseline neurocognitive assessment, which included measures of attention/information processing, episodic memory, and working memory, was conducted immediately after the washout phase and prior to the administration of modafinil. The follow-up assessment was conducted after participants had received modafinil or placebo for five days. Results Repeated-measures, mixed model analysis of variance showed that modafinil administration was associated with significantly improved performance on two measures of working memory span (mean n-back span, maximum n-back span) and a trend toward significant improvement on a measure of visual working memory (visual accuracy) and two measures of sustained attention, consistency of response time (Variability) and reduced impulsivity (Perseveration). Modafinil administration did not modulate performance on measures of information processing speed or episodic memory. Escitalopram did not modulate performance on measures of cognition, either alone or in combination with modafinil. Conclusions This study provides initial data showing that, in a sample of long-term, high-dose cocaine users, administration of psychotropic medications, such as modafinil, can improve performance on measures of working memory. Moreover, it confirms the utility of studying the interactive effects of psychotropic medications to confirm the manner in which the candidate medications independently and interactively affect neurocognition. These effects are likely relevant in the treatment of cocaine dependence, in which the remediation of impaired working memory may be associated with improved treatment outcomes. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled ‘Cognitive Enhancers’.
MODIFIERS OF MUTATION-SELECTION BALANCE - GENERAL-APPROACH AND THE EVOLUTION OF MUTATION-RATES

A general approach is developed to estimate secondary selection at a modifier locus that influences some feature of a population under mutation-selection balance. The approach is based on the assumption that the properties of all available genotypes at this locus are similar. Then mutation-selection balance and weak associations between genotype distributions at selectable loci and the modifier locus are established rapidly. In contrast, changes of frequencies of the modifier genotypes are slow, and lead to only slow and small changes of the other features of the population. Thus, while these changes occur, the population remains in a state of quasi-equilibrium, where the mutation-selection balance and the associations between the selectable loci and the modifier locus are almost invariant. Selection at the modifier locus can be estimated by calculating quasiequilibrium values of these associations. This approach is developed for the situation where distributions of the number of mutations per genome within the individuals with a given modifier genotype are close to Gaussian. The results are used to study the evolution of the mutation rate. Because beneficial mutations are ignored, secondary selection at the modifier locus always diminishes the mutation rate. The coefficient of selection against an allele which increases the mutation rate by υ is approximately υδ2/[U(2−ρ)] = υŝ, where υ is the genomic deleterious mutation rate, δ is the selection differential of the number of mutations per individual in units of the standard deviation of the distribution of this number in the population, ρ is the ratio of variances of the number of mutations after and before selection, and ŝ is the selection coefficient against a mutant allele in the quasiequilibrium population. However, the decline of the mutation rate can be counterbalanced by the cost of fidelity, which can lead to an evolutionary equilibrium mutation rate.
Spatially adaptive statistical modeling of wavelet image coefficients and its application to denoising

This paper deals with the application to denoising of a very simple but effective "local" spatially adaptive statistical model for the wavelet image representation that was previously introduced successfully in a compression context. Motivated by the intimate connection between compression and denoising, this paper explores the significant role of the underlying statistical wavelet image model. The model used here, a simplified version of the one proposed by LoPresto, Ramchandran and Orchard (see Proc. IEEE Data Compression Conf., 1997), is that of a mixture process of independent component fields having a zero-mean Gaussian distribution with unknown variances /spl sigma//sub s//sup 2/ that are slowly spatially-varying with the wavelet coefficient location s. We propose to use this model for image denoising by initially estimating the underlying variance field using a maximum likelihood (ML) rule and then applying the minimum mean squared error (MMSE) estimation procedure. In the process of variance estimation, we assume that the variance field is "locally" smooth to allow its reliable estimation, and use an adaptive window-based estimation procedure to capture the effect of edges. Despite the simplicity of our method, our denoising results compare favorably with the best reported results in the denoising literature.
Join Optimization of Information Extraction Output: Quality Matters!

Information extraction (IE) systems are trained to extract specific relations from text databases. Real-world applications often require that the output of multiple IE systems be joined to produce the data of interest. To optimize the execution of a join of multiple extracted relations, it is not sufficient to consider only execution time. In fact, the quality of the join output is of critical importance: unlike in the relational world, different join execution plans can produce join results of widely different quality whenever IE systems are involved. In this paper, we develop a principled approach to understand, estimate, and incorporate output quality into the join optimization process over extracted relations. We argue that the output quality is affected by (a) the configuration of the IE systems used to process documents, (b) the document retrieval strategies used to retrieve documents, and (c) the actual join algorithm used. Our analysis considers several alternatives for these factors, and predicts the output quality---and, of course, the execution time---of the alternate execution plans. We establish the accuracy of our analytical models, as well as study the effectiveness of a quality-aware join optimizer, with a large-scale experimental evaluation over real-world text collections and state-of-the-art IE systems.
Temporal Relationships Between Hormone Receptor Binding and Biological Responses inthe Uterus: Studies with Short- and Long-Acting Derivatives of Estriol

The temporal relationships between hormone receptor binding and early and late biological responses in the uterus were examined using estriol (E3), a weak estrogen, and several morelong acting estriol derivatives, namely ethinyl estriol (EE3) (estriol cyclopentyl ether (E3CPE), and ethinyl estriol)cyclopentyl ether (EE3CPE). Dose-response curves) of 3–day uterotrophic assays indicate that biological (potency follows the order EE3CPE > EE3 or estradiol > E3 CPE > E3 After a single injection of 5 ⁄μ.g of compound, E3 elicits the early uterotrophic responses (increased uterine wet weight and 2–deoxyglucose phosphorylation at 2–6 h) but gives only weak stimulation of later uterotrophic responses (enhanced rates of 2–deoxyglucose phosphorylation at 20–24 h and increased DNA synthesis rate and uterine weight (over a 72 h period). E3, EE3 and estradiol all elicit a rapid (maximal by ½–1 h) uptake of receptor into the nucleus and show an equivalent wet weight response at 3 h. After E3 nuclear receptor levels and ...
Organization and Development of the Embryo

The title of this book is also that of the Silliman Lectures which Dr. Ross G. Harrison delivered in 1949 at Yale University. Prolonged illness prevented him from preparing this, his scientific testament, for publication. The editor of the book, Miss Sally Wilens, Dr. Harrison’s long-time research associate and friend, wisely chose not to reassemble the actual lectures from incomplete notes, but instead to republish five of Harrison’s major articles on which the six Silliman Lectures were based. Several of them were not readily accessible before. Some of Harrison’s lecture notes and comments are inserted in the text.
Framework for Identifying Cybersecurity Risks in Manufacturing

Increasing connectivity, use of digital computation, and off-site data storage provide potential for dramatic improvements in manufacturing productivity, quality, and cost. However, there are also risks associated with the increased volume and pervasiveness of data that are generated and potentially accessible to competitors or adversaries. Enterprises have experienced cyber attacks that exfiltrate confidential and/or proprietary data, alter information to cause an unexpected or unwanted effect, and destroy capital assets. Manufacturers need tools to incorporate these risks into their existing risk management processes. This paper establishes a framework that considers the data flows within a manufacturing enterprise and throughout its supply chain. The framework provides several mechanisms for identifying generic and manufacturing-specific vulnerabilities and is illustrated with details pertinent to an automotive manufacturer. In addition to providing manufacturers with insights into their potential data risks, this framework addresses an outcome identified by the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.
Conversion of Bituminous Coal to Liquids and Gases: Chemistry and Representative Processes

Bituminous coal consists principally of condensed ring structures containing aromatic and hydroaromatic rings. The condensed units are connected mainly by short aliphatic chains and ether linkages. Coal liquefaction reactions in the usual temperature range (400–500°C) proceed chiefly via a free radical mechanism, thermally produced radicals being stabilized mostly by hydrogen from available sources. Several approaches to achieve liquids production are illustrated with specific processes. Gasification of coal to yield a gas of low heating value and one of high heating value is discussed and the principles illustrated with specific processes.
Conformal Automorphisms of Circular Regions

(1979). Conformal Automorphisms of Circular Regions. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 86, No. 8, pp. 684-686.
Interfacial Segregation in Ionic Conductors: Ceria

Grain boundary segregation in cerium dioxide doped with varying amounts of gadolinium oxide and tantalum oxide has been measured with x-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy using a Vacuum Generators HB603 Scanning Transmission Electron Microscope (STEM). The data has been analyzed in the framework of both elastic relaxation and space charge segregation forces with a limited number of surface sites. Results show that multiple driving forces must be taken into account to explain aliovalent solute segregation.
Cyclic Brush Polymers by Combining Ring-Expansion Metathesis Polymerization and the “Grafting from” Technique

A novel synthetic route to cyclic brush polymers was developed by combining ring-expansion metathesis polymerization (REMP) and the “grafting from” technique. In this approach, ultrahigh molecular weight cyclic polymers with hydroxyl side groups were synthesized first by REMP to form the cyclic macroinitiators. Polyester side chains were then grown from these cyclic macroinitiators by virtue of a triazabicyclodecene-catalyzed cyclic ester ring-opening polymerization to produce the cyclic brush polymers.
A Comparison of Beta Backscatter Gauges for Measuring Egg Shells

Abstract Three beta-backscatter gauges used to determine egg shell properties were compared. One gauge had a large diameter 5.4 cm Geiger-Mueller detector. The second gauge had a small diameter, 2.9 cm Geiger-Mueller detector; whereas, the third gauge had a small diameter, 2.9 cm surface barrier detector. The most consistent measurements were obtained with the large diameter Geiger-Mueller detector gauge. While all gauges were affected by temperature changes, the Geiger-Mueller detectors were affected least. A temperature change of the electronics created a much greater change in counts than a similar temperature change of the detectors. The differences between good and poor egg shells were determined by measuring the backscatter with each gauge. Although the gauge with the large Geiger-Mueller detector showed a smaller difference between good and poor egg shells than the one with a surface barrier detector, its superior reliability and temperature stability make it the preferable gauge.
Decreased ATP cost of isometric contractions in ATP-depleted rat fast-twitch muscle.

ATP was depleted to inosine 5'-monophosphate (IMP) in gastrocnemius muscles of anesthetized rats during two consecutive bouts of intermittent tetanic stimulation (each 1 Hz at 100 Hz, 100-ms durati...
Evidence that intrarenal dopamine acts as a paracrine substance at the renal tubule

Dopamine is synthesized within the kidney and dopamine 1 (DA1) receptors are associated with the proximal tubule. In pharmacological doses, dopamine increases renal blood flow and sodium excretion. It is possible that dopamine formed intrarenally acts locally via renal dopamine receptors to control renal function. We investigated the possible paracrine action of renal dopamine by intrarenal administration of a specific DA1 antagonist, Sch 23390, in doses confined to the kidney in conscious uninephrectomized dogs (n = 5) in metabolic balance at a sodium intake of 40 meq/day. Changes (mean +/- SE) in renal excretory and hemodynamic function in response to cumulative infusions of several doses of Sch 23390 (0.01, 0.1, 1.0, 5.0, and 10.0 pmol.kg-1.min-1) were studied. Sch 23390 at 0.01 pmol.kg-1.min-1 did not cause any changes in urinary flow rate or sodium excretion. Sch 23390 in doses from 0.1 to 10.0 mol.kg-1.min-1 caused a significant dose-dependent antidiuresis (F = 44.9, P less than 0.0001) and antinatriuresis (F = 42.1, P less than 0.0001) and a decrease in fractional sodium excretion (F = 44.2, P less than 0.0001). No changes in estimated renal plasma flow, glomerular filtration rate, plasma aldosterone concentration, plasma renin activity, or systemic arterial pressure occurred with any dose of intrarenal Sch 23390 infused into the renal artery. Rebound diuresis and natriuresis occurred after cessation of the DA1 blockade.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The Importance of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EI) is another lens through which to view personality. Rather than traits, we look at emotional capabilities and competencies. Following Goleman, there are six sets of emotional intelligences that suggest whether one can be more or less successful as a leader. We focus on three. They are (1) listening and (2) other-centeredness, both of which are based on the EI of empathy, and (3) demeanor, based on the EI of self-regulation. Deficiencies in these EIs and competencies account for much of the failure in leadership. Though deficiencies in personality traits can be compensated for by delegating to others, delegation is not a strategy for deficits in EIs since one can’t delegate every interaction. Strategies for overcoming these deficiencies by improving EI-based competencies are the only solution and are the subject of this chapter.
Aflatoxin Biosynthesis and Sclerotial Development in Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus

Aflatoxins are a family of fungal secondary metabolites. They are produced by species in the genus Aspergillus. The commonly recognized producers of aflatoxins include A. flavus, A. parasiticus, A. nomius, A. tamarii, A. pseudotamarii, A. bombycis, and A. ochraceoroseus (Cary et al. 2005). Aflatoxin contamination of agricultural commodities can arise from field conditions conducive to fungal growth before harvest as well as from improper storage of foods and feeds. A. flavus and A. parasiticus are the most important aflatoxigenic species. While both can produce aflatoxins, the majority of A. flavus isolates produce aflatoxins B1 and B2 although some strains have been reported to also produce aflatoxins G1 and G2. In contrast, A. parasiticus produces all four types of the aflatoxins. The toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic effects of aflatoxin B1 on humans and animals have been studied in great detail. Aflatoxin B1 has been linked to a specific G to T transversion in the codon 249 in the p53 tumor suppressor gene in primary human hepatocellular carcinoma. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has designated aflatoxin as a human liver carcinogen (Wogan 2000). To minimize potential human exposure to aflatoxins, maximum levels of aflatoxins in many commodities have been set (Wu 2004). Forty-eight countries have specific regulations limiting total aflatoxins in foodstuffs, a further 21 having regulations for aflatoxins in feedstuffs (FAO 1995). Regulatory guidelines of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prevent the sale of commodities if contamination by aflatoxins exceeds allowed levels. The FDA has set limits of 20 ppb total aflatoxins for interstate commerce of food and feedstuff and 0.5 ppb aflatoxin M1 in milk. The European Commission has set the limits on groundnuts subject to further processing at 15 ppb for total aflatoxins and 8 ppb for aflatoxin B1, and for nuts and dried fruits subject to further processing at 10 ppb for total aflatoxins and 5 ppb for aflatoxin B1. The aflatoxin standards for cereals, dried fruits, and nuts intended for direct human consumption are even more stringent, and the limit for total aflatoxins is 4 ppb and 2 ppb for aflatoxin B1 (Otsuki et al. 2001).
Productivity Measurement and Management Control

In recent years, manufacturing firms in the United States have been directing increasing attention to the need for improving productivity in order to strengthen their competitive position. To monitor and evaluate productivity changes, and to communicate and reinforce this new emphasis on productivity improvements, appropriate measures of productivity are required. Productivity measurement can generate information that may be useful for management control purposes in two ways. First, such measurement may identify dimensions on which productivity improvements are possible, in which case targets may be generated to guide future operations. The productivity measures may be employed to identify products or processes for which the firm has a competitive edge in productivity or similarly evaluate new technologies or investment projects that are likely to increase the firm’s profitability. The second role for productivity measures in management control systems arises from their use in evaluating the performance of managers. In conjunction with the usual profit or cost accounting system, a productivity measurement system can be designed by the corporate management so that it motivates the divisional managers to select actions that are consistent with the overall corporate plans and priorities.