cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
NASA's RPS Design Reference Mission Set for Solar System Exploration

NASA's 2006 Solar System Exploration (SSE) Strategic Roadmap identified a set of proposed large Flagship, medium New Frontiers and small Discovery class missions, addressing key exploration objectives. These objectives respond to the recommendations by the National Research Council (NRC), reported in the SSE Decadal Survey. The SSE Roadmap is down-selected from an over-subscribed set of missions, called the SSE Design Reference Mission (DRM) set. Missions in the Flagship and New Frontiers classes can consider Radioisotope Power Systems (RPSs), while small Discovery class missions are not permitted to use them, due to cost constraints. In line with the SSE DRM set and the SSE Roadmap missions, the RPS DRM set represents a set of missions, which can be enabled or enhanced by RPS technologies. At present, NASA has proposed the development of two new types of RPSs. These are the Multi-Mission Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (MMRTG), with static power conversion; and the Stirling Radioisotope Generator (SRG), with dynamic conversion. Advanced RPSs, under consideration for possible development, aim to increase specific power levels. In effect, this would either increase electric power generation for the same amount of fuel, or reduce fuel requirements for the same power output, compared to the proposed MMRTG or SRG. Operating environments could also influence the design, such that an RPS on the proposed Titan Explorer would use smaller fins to minimize heat rejection in the extreme cold environment; while the Venus Mobile Explorer long-lived in-situ mission would require the development of a new RPS, in order to tolerate the extreme hot environment, and to simultaneously provide active cooling to the payload and other electric components. This paper discusses NASA's SSE RPS DRM set, in line with the SSE DRM set. It gives a qualitative assessment regarding the impact of various RPS technology and configuration options on potential mission architectures, which could support NASA's RPS technology development planning, and provide an understanding of fuel need trades over the next three decades.
Using Examples, Case Analysis, and Dependency Graphs in Theorem Proving

The use of examples seems to be fundamental to human methods of proving and understanding theorems. Whether the examples are drawn on paper or simply visualized, they seem to be more common in theorem proving and understanding by humans than in textbook proofs using the syntactic transformations of formal logic. What is the significance of this use of examples, and how can it be exploited to get better theorem provers and better interaction of theorem provers with haman users? We present a theorem proving strategy which seems to mimic the human tendency to use examples, and has other features in common with human theorem proving methods. This strategy may be useful in itself, as well as giving insight into human thought processes. This strategy proceeds by finding relevant facts, connecting them together by causal relations, and abstracting the causal dependencies to obtain a proof. The strategy can benefit by examining several examples to observe common features in their causal dependencies before abstracting to obtain a general proof. Also, the strategy often needs to perform a case analysis to obtain a proof, with different examples being used for each case, and a systematic method of linking the proofs of the cases to obtain a general proof. The method distinguishes between positive and negative literals in a nontrivial way, similar to the different perceptions people have of the logically equivalent statements A ⊃ B and (¬ B) ⊃ (¬ A). This work builds on earlier work of the author on abstraction strategies [17] and problem redaction methods [18], and also on recent artificial intelligence work on annotating facts with explanatory information [6,7,9]. This method differs from the abstraction strategy in that it is possible to choose a different abstraction for each case in a case analysis proof; there are other differences as well. For other recent work concerning the use of examples in theorem proving see [1] and [2].
The transition to the elastic regime in the vicinity of an underground explosion

Abstract : Wave propagation problems were examined in nonlinear materials for which attenuation, described by the inverse quality factor i/q, is independent of frequency but grows linearly with strain amplitude. This particular relationship is an adequate representation of many laboratory observations for rocks tested in the strain range .000001 to .0001. However, our concern is that use of data reduction techniques developed in the context of a linear theory (e. g. spectral ratios, Lorentz peaks) may yield biased answers at these moderately high strains. The results of our elementary, one-dimensional numerical modeling experiments are mixed, and do not seem to be easily predictable from simple arguments. For example, i/q estimates derived from the half-width of a resonance peak appear to be surprisingly accurate well into the nonlinear regime. Similarly, the nonlinear interaction of one-dimensional pulses does not lead to strong departures from linear superposition in the range of nonlinear behavior we have considered. On the other hand, the propagation of a one-dimensional narrow pulse through a medium with frequency-independent, but amplitude dependent Q is not described accurately by an equivalent Q-operator, and observed resonance peak distortions due to nonlinearity are worse than predicted by the calculations. In contrast to linear Q models for which the spectrum of the Q operator tends to unity at low frequencies, a nonlinear rheology may lead to significant spectral distortions at all frequencies, and energy losses can be substantial even at wavelengths long compared to the propagation distance.
Whose Rules Rule? Resolving Ethical Conflicts During the Simultaneous Representation of Clients in Patent Prosecution

This paper explores the conflict between the PTO Rules of Professional Conduct and the state rules of ethics. This conflict is not readily apparent as a patent attorney would be justified in assuming that conduct deemed ethical under the state requirements would be acceptable under the PTO ethics rules. However, the PTO's "Duty of Candor" potentially presents the patent attorney with a seemly unresolvable conflict. Specifically, the "Duty of Candor" may require the patent attorney, during simultaneous patent prosecution, to disclose confidential information from the file of one client in order to properly prosecute the patent of another client. The courts have made it clear that the attorney-client privilege is applicable to all communication between a patent attorney and the client. In light of this ruling, the question becomes whether federal rules of ethics preempt the applicability of state ethics rules. We specifically explore the conflict between state confidentiality/privilege rules and the PTO Duty of Candor and the ramifications of failure to resolve this conflict for both the attorney and the client. An overview of patent prosecution is included as well as a comparison of the of the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct and the PTO Code of Professional Responsibility. We argue that the state rules of ethics should dominate the practice of all law and should supercede enforcement of the PTO Duty of Candor where conflicts arise during simultaneous patent prosecution.
Magic and the Supernatural in Medieval English Romance (Studies in Medieval Romance 13)

Any work investigating literary treatments of magic and the supernatural inevitably faces the challenge of producing a discussion commensurate in intrigue and romantic mystery with its subject. Cor...
The Heated Condensation Framework. Part I: Description and Southern Great Plains Case Study

AbstractThis study extends the heated condensation framework (HCF) presented in Tawfik and Dirmeyer to include variables for describing the convective background state of the atmosphere used to quantify the contribution of the atmosphere to convective initiation within the context of land–atmosphere coupling. In particular, the ability for the full suite of HCF variables to 1) quantify the amount of latent and sensible heat energy necessary for convective initiation, 2) identify the transition from moistening advantage to boundary layer growth advantage, 3) identify locally originating convection, and 4) compare models and observations, directly highlighting biases in the convective state, is demonstrated. These capabilities are illustrated for a clear-sky and convectively active day over the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program Southern Great Plains central station using observations, the Rapid Update Cycle (RUC) operational model, and the North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR). The clear-sky day...
Growth rate, ultrastructure and sediment contribution of Halimeda incrassata and Halimeda monile, Nonsuch and Falmouth Bays, Antigua, W.I.

Halimeda incrassata and Halimeda monile, the two dominant rhipsalian Halimeda, were evaluated behind a bank barrier reef, in a fringing reef lagoon and in an open lagoon. Growth was calculated in number of segments, weight of segments and turnover rate. More than 1800 plants were stained with Alizarin Red-S dye, yielding average number of segments/plant/day and g CaCO3/m2/year for each of the above areas of 2.17/114, 1.43/65.7 and 1.6/56.9, respectively. Average weight CaCO3/segment was 4 mg. SEM revealed ultrastructure of short and long unoriented aragonite crystals forming in new segments within 24 h and an effective holdfast system with filaments partially coated with carbonate fragments. Greatest growth occurred within thin to medium density grass beds. In Nonsuch Bay sediment production from these two species alone was 0.057 mm/year or 1 1/2 orders of magnitude less than estimates of the total production from all Halimeda species (1.01 mm/year) over the past 6745 years.
Lithostratigraphy and environment of deposition of the top of the Wafra member, Radhuma formation (Wafra field, Kuwait)

Abstract A sedimentologic study of a core section (321–406 m, 1030–1303 ft) from the top of the Wafra Member (Radhuma Formation) in the northwest Wafra field (Neutral Zone) shows variations in depositional environment with depth. The lower part of the interval is characterized by supratidal deposits which grade upwards to intertidal deposits. The Wafra Member is capped by the Rus Formation of supratidal anhydrite, marking a return to a shallow water environment. This is consistent with the location of the Wafra field within the carbonate/evaporite belt of Murris (1980) during Paleocene-lower Eocene times. The fauna is consistent with a Paleocene-lower Eocene age assignment; a more precise age cannot be given because of the degree of alteration (dolomitization). Currently available data on the Radhuma Formation are summarized, and its subdivision in the Wafra field is discussed.
Analysis of genetic variability in various tissue culture-derived lemon plant populations using RAPD and flow cytometry

Five populations of lemon plants [Citrus limon (L.) Burm] obtained from undeveloped ovules through different tissue culture procedures were examined for the presence of somaclonal and irradiation-induced genetic variation. Tested groups were: (1) nucellar seedlings; (2) organogenic, regenerated via adventitious buds from nucellar seedling internodes; (3) embryogenic population, regenerated from non-irradiated nucellar callus via somatic embryogenesis; (4) embryogenic population, regenerated from irradiated nucellar callus via somatic embryogenesis; and (5) protoplast-derived, regenerated via somatic embryogenesis. Genomic DNA samples from 360 plants (72 from each group) were screened for polymorphism among RAPD fingerprints amplified by 10 decamer primers. Among all tested plants, genetic variation was detected only within the group of plants recovered from irradiated embryogenic calli. Out of 72 plants from that group, three had RAPD fingerprints different from the rest of the population, and fourth plant was found to be cytochimeric, consisting of diploid and tetraploid cells as revealed by flow cytometry. In all other populations of regenerated plants, we did not come across any plants with changed ploidy level.
Towards the distributed processing of mobile software agents

The mobile software-agent paradigm allows the software agent's data or state to relocate from one machine to another. The actual executable code of the mobile software agent could migrate and not be constraint to a single machine or a specific operating environment. Currently, deficiency of open and close standards for mobile software-agents has contributed to the deterrent of its favorable public acceptance. Regardless, numerous efforts are emerging to standardize protocols and application programming interfaces, promising interoperability of mobile software-agents from various vendors. Contemporary development of organizations that focus on various commercial aspects of applied mobile software-agents could increase the public awareness and desire toward this novel technological investment.
Paroxysmal Nonkinesigenic Dyskinesia with Tremor

Introduction. Paroxysmal nonkinesigenic dyskinesia (PNKD) consists of episodes of chorea, athetosis, or dystonia which are not triggered by movement, with complete remission between episodes. A case of genetically confirmed PNKD with simultaneous tremor has not been previously reported. Case Report. The patient is an 86-year-old right-handed female who presented with episodic stiffness, with onset at age 9. Attacks have a prodrome of difficulty in speaking, followed by abnormal sensation in extremities. Episodes consist of dystonia of trunk associated with upper and lower extremity chorea. There is complete resolution between attacks except for persistent mild head tremor and action tremor of both extremities. Attack frequency and duration as well as tremor amplitude escalated two and a half years ago, in correlation with development of breast carcinoma. Episodes improved after successful cancer treatment, but higher amplitude tremor persisted. There is an autosomal dominant family history of similar episodes but not tremor. Genetic diagnosis was confirmed via A7V mutation of the myofibrillogenesis regulator (MR-1) gene. Conclusion. Exacerbation due to another medical or psychiatric condition should be considered if there is unexpected deterioration in episode frequency or length. PNKD due to MR-1 mutation may exist even in the presence of action tremor.
Effects of UCS predictability in GSR conditioning

Forty Ss were given 14 partially reinforced acquisition trials followed by 8 extinction trials, using a classical GSR conditioning procedure. For one group, the occurrence or nonoccurrence of the UCS was predictable, while this was not the case for the other group. Results indicated that UCS predictability led to significantly lower response magnitude.
Nuclear Protein Interactions with the Human KDR/flk-1 Promoter in Vivo: REGULATION OF Sp1 BINDING IS ASSOCIATED WITH CELL TYPE-SPECIFIC EXPRESSION *

The endothelial cell type-specific tyrosine kinase KDR/flk-1 is a receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor and a critical regulator of endothelial cell growth and development. To study mechanisms of endothelial cell differentiation and gene regulation, we have analyzed the topology of the proximal promoter of human KDR/flk-1. A protected sequence between base pairs -110 and -25 was defined by in vitro DNase I footprinting analysis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Purified Sp1 alone produced similar protection, and electrophoretic mobility shift assays demonstrated that Sp1 was indeed the major nuclear protein binding to this region. Despite the cell type specificity of KDR/flk-1 expression, no cell type differences were observed in DNA-protein interactions in vitro. In contrast, in vivo footprinting assays demonstrated marked differences in core promoter interactions between cell types. Protection of Sp1 binding sites was observed in HUVECs by in vivo DNase I footprinting, whereas in human fibroblasts and HeLa cells a pattern consistent with nucleosomal positioning was observed. In vivo dimethylsulfate footprinting confirmed that DNA-protein interactions occurred within Sp1 elements in HUVECs but not in nonendothelial cells. It is possible that distant elements coordinate Sp1 binding and chromatin structure to regulate cell type-specific expression of KDR/flk-1.
Dimensions of anger-hostility and cardiovascular reactivity in provoked and angered men.

This study investigated the relationship between two dimensions of anger-hostility-the expression of anger-hostility and the experience of anger-hostility-and cardiovascular reactivity in provoked and angered men. A serial subtraction task was administered to 41 male undergraduates who were provoked and angered. A measure of the expression of anger-hostility correlated positively and significantly with systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) reactivity. There were no significant correlations between a measure of the experience of anger-hostility and cardiovascular reactivity. The two types of anger-hostility were also found to relate differentially to life-style variables that have been identified as risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD), with only the expression of anger-hostility showing positive relationships with these life-style CHD risk factors. These findings are discussed within the context of a similar differential relationship between the two dimensions of anger-hostility and CAD and CHD. Finally, significant negative relationships were obtained between the experience of anger-hostility and resting BP and heart rate levels. These findings are discussed within the context of other data suggesting that trait anxiety-neuroticism may have protective properties.
Monoids: theme and variations (functional pearl)

The monoid is a humble algebraic structure, at first glance even downright boring. However, there's much more to monoids than meets the eye. Using examples taken from the diagrams vector graphics framework as a case study, I demonstrate the power and beauty of monoids for library design. The paper begins with an extremely simple model of diagrams and proceeds through a series of incremental variations, all related somehow to the central theme of monoids. Along the way, I illustrate the power of compositional semantics; why you should also pay attention to the monoid's even humbler cousin, the semigroup; monoid homomorphisms; and monoid actions.
The Simplest Surrealist Act: Valerie Solanas and the (Re)Assertion of Avantgarde Priorities

She shot pop art superstar Andy Warhol—but, really, who was Valerie Solanas? And what was “SCUM”? Answering those questions tells a lot about the radically changing landscape of the American avantgarde of the late 1960a.
Lorentz-group Berry phases in squeezed light

Abstract Berry phases for the Lorentz group are obtained from transformations that produce squeezed states of the electromagnetic field. They involve phases that could be observed in interference experiments with degenerate parametric amplifiers of light or microwaves.
Adaptation to the Interferon-Induced Antiviral State by Human and Simian Immunodeficiency Viruses

The production of type I interferon (IFN) is an early host response to different infectious agents leading to the induction of hundreds of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). The roles of many ISGs in host defense are unknown, but their expression results in the induction of an "antiviral state" that inhibits the replication of many viruses. Here we show that prototype primate lentiviruses human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and simian immunodeficiency virus of macaques (SIV(MAC) and SIV(MNE)) can replicate in lymphocytes from their usual hosts (humans and macaques, respectively), even when an antiviral state is induced by IFN-α treatment. In contrast, HIV-1 and SIV(MAC)/SIV(MNE) replication was hypersensitive to IFN-α in lymphocytes from unnatural hosts, indicating that the antiviral state can effectively curtail the replication of primate lentiviruses in hosts to which they are not adapted. Most of the members of a panel of naturally occurring HIV-1 and HIV-2 strains behaved like prototype strains and were comparatively insensitive to IFN-α in human lymphocytes. Using chimeric viruses engineered to overcome restriction factors whose antiretroviral specificities vary in a species-dependent manner, we demonstrate that differential HIV-1 and SIV(MAC) sensitivities to IFN-α in lymphocytes from humans and macaques could not be ascribed to TRIM5, APOBEC3, tetherin, or SAMHD1. Single-cycle infection experiments indicated that at least part of this species-specific, IFN-α-induced restriction of primate lentivirus replication occurs early in the retroviral life cycle. Overall, these studies indicate the existence of undiscovered, IFN-α-inducible antiretroviral factors whose spectrum of activity varies in a species-dependent manner and to which at least some HIV/SIV strains have become adapted in their usual hosts.
China's water scarcity

China has been facing increasingly severe water scarcity, especially in the northern part of the country. China's water scarcity is characterized by insufficient local water resources as well as reduced water quality due to increasing pollution, both of which have caused serious impacts on society and the environment. Three factors contribute to China's water scarcity: uneven spatial distribution of water resources; rapid economic development and urbanization with a large and growing population; and poor water resource management. While it is nearly impossible to adjust the first two factors, improving water resource management represents a cost-effective option that can alleviate China's vulnerability to the issue. Improving water resource management is a long-term task requiring a holistic approach with constant effort. Water right institutions, market-based approaches, and capacity building should be the government's top priority to address the water scarcity issue.
Short-term changes in key plant communities of Central Apennines (Italy)

Abstract Recent changes in species composition and abundance in seven plant communities characteristic of Central-European, Sub-Atlantic and Alpine belts of the Central Apennines (oak and beech forest, dwarf-shrubland, high-mountain grassland and alpine tundra) were analysed on the basis of 30 permanent plots. Plots, 100–300 m2 in area, were selected in the Velino Mts. National Reserve and the Gran Sasso and Laga Mts. National Park, at altitudes from 1,000 to 2,300 m a.s.I. For each plot, a phytosociological releve was collected (according to the Braun-Blanquet approach) in 1993 and repeated 6 and 8 years later, in 1999 and 2001. In some cases, a releve collected seven years before (in 1986) was also available. A comparative analysis of changes in species composition, life forms, life strategies and morpho-functional types allowed us to recognise dynamical processes (fluctuation, secondary succession and degeneration) and an increase in drought- and stress-tolerant species, in some cases probably linked t...
Depth-resolved photoemission spectroscopy from surface and buried layers with soft X-ray standing waves

Abstract A new type of depth-resolved soft X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (SXPS) is carried out in which depth sensitivity is provided by means of a periodic multilayer {[B 4 C(22.5 A)–W(17.1 A)] 40 } that possesses sizeable standing wave effects of ±∼50–60% for soft X-rays at hν ≈750 eV. The photoelectron intensities of each element in the sample, including impurity overlayers, are sharply altered when the incidence angle is tuned over the Bragg condition, in excellent agreement with theoretical simulations. The angular dependence of photoelectron intensity also shows unique chemical-state-resolved behavior depending on the location of a given species in the multilayer structure. Depth-resolved SXPS with soft X-ray standing wave excitation should thus be a very useful tool for studying surface and interface chemical, electronic, and magnetic properties.
Student Dogmatism in Business Administration: Concern for Open Mindedness in Decision Making, Course Success and Satisfaction

A two-part study was completed. In part one, an introduction to business course was structured to enhance the open-mindedness of 86 college students. In part two, effects of dogmatic thinking with 57 business administration majors enrolled in a business policy course were analysed with respect to course success, and satisfaction with course structure and instructor directiveness. Results indicated that open-minded thinking can be fostered in a business course environment. Additionally, while it appeared that participation in a general business curriculum creates a climate tending toward more open-mindedness, effects of dogmatism hampers overall academic success. Implications for open-mindedness and decision making in the business environment are discussed.
Synthesis and antiproliferative activity of novel 2-aryl-4-benzoyl-imidazole derivatives targeting tubulin polymerization

We previously reported the discovery of 2-aryl-4-benzoyl-imidazoles (ABI-I) as potent antiproliferative agents for melanoma. To further understand the structural requirements for the potency of ABI analogs, gain insight in the structure-activity relationships (SAR), and investigate metabolic stability for these compounds, we report extensive SAR studies on the ABI-I scaffold. Compared with the previous set of ABI-I analogs, the newly synthesized ABI-II analogs have lower potency in general, but some of the new analogs have comparable potency to the most active compounds in the previous set when tested in two melanoma and four prostate cancer cell lines. These SAR studies indicated that the antiproliferative activity was very sensitive to subtle changes in the ligand. Tested compounds 3ab and 8a are equally active against highly paclitaxel resistant cancer cell lines and their parental cell lines, indicating that drugs developed based on ABI-I analogs may have therapeutic advantages over paclitaxel in treating resistant tumors. Metabolic stability studies of compound 3ab revealed that N-methyl imidazole failed to extend stability as literature reported because de-methylation was found as the major metabolic pathway in rat and mouse liver microsomes. However, this sheds light on the possibility for many modifications on imidazole ring for further lead optimization since the modification on imidazole, such as compound 3ab, did not impact the potency.
The Major Stratospheric Sudden Warming of January 2013: Analyses and Forecasts in the GEOS-5 Data Assimilation System

AbstractThe major stratospheric sudden warming (SSW) of 6 January 2013 is examined using output from the NASA Global Modeling and Assimilation Office (GMAO) Goddard Earth Observing System version 5 (GEOS-5) near-real-time data assimilation system (DAS). GEOS-5 analyses showed that the SSW of January 2013 was a major warming by 1200 UTC 6 January, with a wave-2 vortex-splitting pattern. Upward wave activity flux from the upper troposphere (~23 December 2012) displaced the ~10-hPa polar vortex off the pole in a wave-1 pattern, enabling the poleward advection of subtropical values of Ertel potential vorticity (EPV) into a developing anticyclonic circulation region. While the polar vortex subsequently split (wave-2 pattern) the wave-2 forcing [upward Eliassen–Palm (EP) flux] was smaller than what was found in recent wave-2, SSW events, with most of the forcing located in the Pacific hemisphere. Investigation of a rapidly developing tropospheric weather system over the North Atlantic on 28–29 December 2012 sho...
The Hole Argument and Some Physical and Philosophical Implications

This is a historical-critical study of the hole argument, concentrating on the interface between historical, philosophical and physical issues. Although it includes a review of its history, its primary aim is a discussion of the contemporary implications of the hole argument for physical theories based on dynamical, background-independent space-time structures.
Hope in adults with cancer: state of the science.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To synthesize the literature regarding research on hope in adults with cancer. DATA SOURCES: CINAHL Plus® and PsycINFO databases. DATA SYNTHESIS: Sixteen articles published from 2005-2009 met the criteria for review. The literature was organized according to Oncology Nursing Society levels of evidence. Research studies on hope in adults with cancer were analyzed, critiqued, and synthesized. CONCLUSIONS: Research evidence continues to grow regarding descriptions of hope and hope attributes in adults with cancer. Although nursing intervention programs have demonstrated positive effects on hope in adults newly diagnosed with cancer, those with a first cancer recurrence, the terminally ill, and survivors of childhood cancer, current studies are small and additional research is indicated. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Opportunities exist to explain the dynamic process of hope, develop hope interventions that are tailored to meet the developmental needs of adults with cancer, and study existing nursing programs that support hope using larger samples in randomized, controlled trials.
Post–dural headache associated with thoracic paravertebral blocks

The thoracic paravertebral block is effective in providing anesthesia and postoperative analgesia for thoracic and abdominal surgeries. This case report describes a suspected post-dural puncture headache following bilateral thoracic paravertebral blocks for postoperative analgesia after an umbilical hernia repair.
Dental insurance, managed care and traditional practice.

ABSTRACT Background and Overview The author examined the impact of trends in commercial insurance plans and their managed care products on the traditional fee-for-service solo or partnership model of dental practice. Conclusion In response to rising dental expenditures, employers are passing on more costs of dental insurance to employees, dropping dental benefits altogether and moving from indemnity to managed care plans, mainly preferred provider organizations. These trends are likely to continue, resulting in fewer people with employer-based dental insurance coverage. Practice Implications These changes in dental insurance coverage are unlikely to challenge the traditional model of dental practice within the next five years, largely because of the growing decline in the supply of dental services and a lack of local market concentration of dental managed care companies.
Brain State-Dependence of Electrically Evoked Potentials Monitored With Head-Mounted Electronics

Inferring changes in brain connectivity is critical to studies of learning-related plasticity and stimulus-induced conditioning of neural circuits. In addition, monitoring spontaneous fluctuations in connectivity can provide insight into information processing during different brain states. Here, we quantified state-dependent connectivity changes throughout the 24-h sleep-wake cycle in freely behaving monkeys. A novel, head-mounted electronic device was used to electrically stimulate at one site and record evoked potentials at other sites. Electrically evoked potentials (EEPs) revealed the connectivity pattern between several cortical sites and the basal forebrain. We quantified state-dependent changes in the EEPs. Cortico-cortical EEP amplitude increased during slow-wave sleep, compared to wakefulness, while basal-cortical EEP amplitude decreased. The results demonstrate the utility of using portable electronics to document state-dependent connectivity changes in freely behaving primates.
Gender differences in drug metabolism regulated by growth hormone

Abstract Gender differences in drug metabolism in rats have been known for more than 60 years when it was first reported that the much shorter duration of drug action in the male was due to the effects of testicular androgens. More recent studies have demonstrated that this sexual dimorphism in rat drug metabolism results from the differential expression of a possible dozen, or so sex-dependent hepatic forms of cytochrome P 450. Moreover, it is the sexually dimorphic plasma profiles of growth hormone, and not androgens, that directly regulate the expression of these individual forms of hepatic cytochrome P 450. Male rats secrete growth hormone in an “on-off” episodic rhythm in which interpulse periods contain no detectable levels of the hormone. Growth hormone secretion in the female rat is also pulsatile, but can be characterized as “continuous” since hormone levels are always present in the circulation. It would appear that the duration of the interpulse period is at least one “signal” in the growth hormone profile regulating hepatic expression of the sex-dependent forms of cytochrome P 450, and thus establishing the gender differences in drug metabolism. The exaggerated gender differences in rat drug metabolism (i.e. 300–500%) have made it the standard, and understandably an ideal model in which to investigate the mechanisms regulating these dimorphisms. However, it is also possible that these studies have limited value when extrapolated to other species, such as humans, in which the magnitude of the sexual differences are much smaller, and the dimorphism may be reversed (F > M). In this regard, the mouse model, in which the sexual differences (F > M) in drug metabolizing enzyme activities vary by only 40–100%, are also regulated by sex-dependent plasma growth hormone profiles, and may be more representative of the vast majority of outbred species in which only subtle gender differences occur in drug metabolism.
Preliminary oral rehabilitation versus mouth preparation

Abstract The term preliminary oral rehabilitation is proposed for use instead of the term mouth preparation . The component facts of preliminary oral rehabilitation were defined, and reasons were presented for its preference.
The rote of calcium-phospholipid-phosphate complexes in tissue mineralization

Abstract Calcium-phospholipid-phosphate complexes have been associated with the initiation of tissue mineralization. These complexes, which originally were probably membrane components have been characterized in rabbit and bovine tissues. The properties of these complexes, the factors controlling their formation, and their role in initiating calcification are discussed.
Morphogenesis of blood cell lineages in channel catfish

The morphogenesis of blood cell lineages in channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus, from head and trunk kidney and spleen imprints as well as from blood smears of bled and control fish, showed that early maturation stages resembled those in higher vertebrates. The erythroid lineage consisted of the proerythroblast, erythroblasts (basophilic, polychromatic, orthochromic), young erythrocyte and erythrocyte. The rare bilobed erythrocyte seemed to be a cell in apoptosis while old erythrocytes and erythroplastids represented remnants of this process. Maturation stages of neutrophils and basophils encompassed the granuloblast, young progranulocyte, progranulocyte and metagranulocyte. The basophilic lineage was regularly present in kidneys, rare in spleen and absent from blood. It contained large Sudan Black and PAS-negative, water soluble granules and small PAS-positive ones. Lymphocytes with azurophilic granulation occured regularly in kidneys and spleen. Monoblasts and promonocytes in kidneys preceded monocytes. A phagocytic lineage devouring apoptotic blood cell remnants was present in kidneys and spleen. Its youngest identified stage (promacrophage) resembled more a granuloid cell without granules than a monocytoid one. The larger, young macrophages contained a few to several ingestions and the very large mature macrophages were loaded with them. The latter two stages corresponded to cells in melano-macrophage centres (macrophage aggregates). Precursor stages of the thrombocyte were not identified.
On the increases in nitric oxide density at midlatitudes during ionospheric storms

[1] This study examines the causes of changes in observed and modeled nitric oxide density at midlatitudes during magnetic storms in September 1974. Results are presented for two altitudes where the behavior of nitric oxide is different because of the different chemical lifetimes. At 110 km altitude, the lifetime is a day or more, while at 150 km altitude the lifetime is a few hours. In addition, vertical diffusion is a net sink of NO at 150 km but an important source at 110 km. The Atmosphere Explorer-C (AE-C) satellite data show that the midlatitude NO density increased by a factor of 3 above ∼150 km following a large increase in magnetic activity on 15 September 1974 and this increase is well modeled. In the model the storm time increase begins when the Sun illuminates the disturbed thermosphere about 6 hours after the onset of the storm. The model NO density increases above 150 km are the direct result of increased NO production through solar production on storm-induced enhancements in O2 density and neutral temperature. At 150 km the storm-enhanced NO density decreases within a day. Downward vertical diffusion of this enhanced NO then causes a large increase in model NO density at 110 km following the storm with a time delay of about 1 day and the enhancement lasts for more than a day. Model calculations indicate that at and above 150 km, any NO transported from high latitudes is likely to be swamped by local chemical processes once the Sun rises. At lower altitudes near 110 km, where the NO density peaks, the aurorally produced NO lasts long enough to be transported from high latitudes to midlatitudes. Thus for horizontal transport from high latitudes to be effective in producing midlatitude increases in NO density, it must take place at low altitudes. Additional calculations for a magnetic storm in the high solar activity period of April 2002 show similar NO behavior to the low solar activity period in September 1974. Since NO radiation is an important sink of thermospheric energy, the midlatitude source associated with enhanced O2 density and neutral temperature is likely to be important in speeding the recovery of the thermosphere and ionosphere following magnetic storms.
Formation of alkylacyl- and diacylglycerophosphocholines via diradylglycerol cholinephosphotransferase in rat liver.

Abstract We found that diacylglycerol and alkylacylglycerol choline phosphotransferase activities exhibited similar pH optima, thermolabilities and inhibitions by Mn 2+ , and dithiothreitol. The V max of diacylglycerol cholinephosphotransferase was higher (approx. 1–2-fold) than the V max of alkylacylglycerol cholinephosphotransferase. The K m value for diacylglycerol was somewhat greater than for the alkylacylglycerol, but no differences were found for the K m of CDPcholine with either type of diradylglycerol as the other substrate. Endogenous levels of diacylglycerols in microsomes were 24.3 nmol/mg protein, whereas no detectable amount of alkylacylglycerols was observed. Results from this study indicate that a similar or identical enzyme catalyzes the formation of 1,2-diacyl- and 1-alkyl-2-acyl- sn -glycero-3-phosphocholine and that the availability of diradylglycerols and the turnover rate of ether-linked lipids would appear to be important factors in controlling the level (under 1%) of 1-alkyl-2-acyl- sn -grycero-3-phosphocholine in rat liver.
Unifying the mechanism of recombinant FVIIa action: dose-dependence is regulated differently by tissue factor and phospholipids

Recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) is used for treatment of hemophilia patients with inhibitors, as well for off-label treatment of severe bleeding in trauma and surgery. Effective bleeding control requires supraphysiological doses of rFVIIa, posing both high expense and uncertain thrombotic risk. Two major competing theories offer different explanations for the supraphysiological rFVIIa dosing requirement: (1) the need to overcome competition between FVIIa and FVII zymogen for tissue factor (TF) binding, and (2) a high-dose–requiring phospholipid-related pathway of FVIIa action. In the present study, we found experimental conditions in which both mechanisms contribute simultaneously and independently to rFVIIa-driven thrombin generation in FVII-deficient human plasma. From mathematical simulations of our model of FX activation, which were confirmed by thrombin-generation experiments, we conclude that the action of rFVIIa at pharmacologic doses is dominated by the TF-dependent pathway with a minor contribution from a phospholipid-dependent mechanism. We established a dose-response curve for rFVIIa that is useful to explain dosing strategies. In the present study, we present a pathway to reconcile the 2 major mechanisms of rFVIIa action, a necessary step to understanding future dose optimization and evaluation of new rFVIIa analogs currently under development.
Multiple neoplasia in a jaguar (Panthera onca)

Abstract Multiple myeloma was diagnosed in a 21-year-old male jaguar and was confirmed by protein electrophoresis. At necropsy, the right adrenal was replaced by an ovoid mass and the liver had numerous multifocal circumscribed metastases on external and cut surfaces. Microscopic examination of the mass revealed an adrenal cortical adenocarcinoma and a medullary phaeochromocytoma. The occurrence of 3 relatively rare neoplasms in the same animal is notable. In addition, the presence of 2 primary neoplasms in one tissue is rare.
Betaxolol-associated hyperpigmentation of the fingers in a patient with unrelated contact dermatitis

Betaxolol ophthalmic solution has been associated with periocular skin hyperpigmentation. We report a case of a woman with hyperpigmentation of the fingers associated with oral betaxolol. Based on case reports associated with the topical ophthalmic product, we believe the hyperpigmentation was likely caused by oral betaxolol.
The inhibition of DRB (5,6-dichloro-1-β-d-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole) of hnRNA and mRNA production in HeLa cells

Abstract 5, 6-dichloro-1-β-d-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole (DRB; 75 μM) inhibited only 60–75% of nuclear heterogeneous RNA (hnRNA) synthesis in HeLa cells, while the appearance of labeled cytoplasmic poly(A)-containing messenger RNA (mRNA) was reduced by approximately 95%. DRB-sensitive and resistant transcripts spanned the entire size range of hnRNA molecules. The relative poly(A) content of DRB-resistant hnRNA molecules was the same as that of normal hnRNA. In contrast to the effects of 3′deoxyadenosine, DRB appeared to inhibit the initiation of hnRNA chains, but did not directly interfere with labeling of poly(A). We present an interpretation of these results and propose how the results might be used to gain more information about nuclear RNA metabolism.
Controlled Modification of Microstructured Silicon Surfaces for Confinement of Biological Macromolecules and Liquid Crystals

We report new methods of surface modifications for confining and aligning biological macromolecules and liquid crystals on microstructured surfaces. Microcontact printing and polyelectrolyte adsorption were used to pattern and control surface properties of silicon microchannels fabricated by photolithography and etching. We show that the wettability inside and on top of the microstructures can be independently varied by selective deposition of a hydrophobic monolayer using microcontact printing, whereas the surface charge, reactivity, and biocompatibility in the microchannels can be adjusted by adsorbing polyelectrolytes to the surface. A near ideal contrast in surface properties was achieved by microcontact printing on preadsorbed polyelectrolyte layers. Three-dimensional laser scanning confocal microscopy was used to characterize the wetting behavior of biological macromolecules (lipids, DNA, microtubules) confined in the microstructures. DNA molecules in concentrated solutions were observed to orient along the microchannels, as a result of surface confinement, when their contour length approached the width of the microchannels. We demonstrate that the surface microstructures may be used to control the mesoscopic defect structures and defect sizes of liquid crystals by studying the defect structure of 8CB (4‘-n-octyl-4-cyanobiphenyl) as a function of the widths and depths of the microchannels. The order induced due to microchannel confinement of biological molecules has the potential of resulting in unique structure characterization of highly oriented biological macromolecules using synchrotron X-ray microdiffraction methods.
An Historical Understanding of the Normal Eye’s Monochromatic Aberrations

Abstract (35 Word Limit) In this paper the history of the study of monochromatic aberrations of the eye is outlined. The progress in this field has depended both on optical inventions and on the development of digital computers, the latter allowing very extensive computations on large data sets to be performed rapidly and accurately.
Local current algebra sum rules and electron-positron annihilation into baryons

Abstract We derive a set of local current algebra sum rules which can be studied in e + e − colliding beam experiments. With saturation assumptions, we calculate the nucleon isovector radius and the slope at threshold for σ(e + e − → N N ) I=1 and σ(e + e −→ N Δ) I=1 .
Improving Tree-Thinking One Learnable Skill at a Time

Representations are a critical way to communicate scientific knowledge. Systematists biologists are acknowledged as expert tree thinkers who can both read and build phylogenetic trees (e.g., cladograms) accurately. The purpose of this study was to identify the core skills essential to help college students overcome tree-thinking challenges. In this study, I used pre/posttests, interviews, weekly reflective journal entries, field notes from course observations, and student responses to coursework to learn how upper-level college biology students developed representational competence with phylogenetic trees. I identified essential core skills by investigating students’ tree-thinking progression over the course of the semester. Three major patterns emerged from the data: (1) students became better tree readers than tree builders by the end of the plant systematics course; (2) core skills are essential for students to develop tree-thinking competence; and (3) tree reading skills developed before tree building skills. By diagnosing challenges students face with tree-thinking, identifying core skills necessary to overcome these challenges, and developing a starting point for a context-based framework for representational competence, this study adds to our understanding of critical elements necessary for designing effective instructional interventions and improving student learning with phylogenetic trees.
Multilateral trades in interconnected power systems: a local public goods approach

We study the multilateral trade problem in interconnected power systems with asymmetric information and non-strategic regional transmission operators (RTOs).We consider a physical network with finite capacity lines connecting the buses within and between RTOs. Each RTO knows the network topology, bus angle constraints, and cost functions within its own region. Each RTO also knows the topology of the network connecting its own region to its neighboring regions and the bus angle constraints of the buses of neighboring RTOs that are immediately connected to its own region. The transmission system is modeled by a modified DC approximation where the power flow equations are represented as convex functions of the angle difference between buses; such an approximation considers lossy flows. The objective is to determine multilateral trades that satisfy the network's informational and physical constraints and minimize the sum of costs of all RTOs.We formulate the above multilateral trade problem as a local public goods problem. We propose a two-layer optimization algorithm that satisfies the problem's informational and physical constraints and results in a sequence of trades that converges to a trade which achieves a local minimum of the corresponding non-convex centralized information multilateral trade problem.