cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ROBUST SELF-EXCITATION BY BIOLOGICAL OSCILLATORS

Abstract The vast majority of literature on control theory has focused on stability and certain regulation performances with respect to equilibrium points of dynamical systems. On the other hand, there are many practically important problems that are concerned with control specifications described by periodic motions. This paper makes an initial attempt to investigating the potential of biological oscillators for use as a new feedback control architecture to achieve such objectives. In particular, we use the Lur'e neuron model to construct a biological oscillator and demonstrate by a simple pendulum example that the oscillator is capable of robustly exciting the natural motion of the mechanical system. Interestingly, an oscillator of the same architecture but with a simpler neuron model, similar to those used in artificial neural network literature, does not seem to have the robust self-excitation capability. Practical implications of the result are discussed.
On the hazards of relying on mathematical models: three cases from Federal policy analysis

Abstract Three examples from Federal policy analysis illustrate the absurdities which can arise when analysts attempt to substitute mathematical sophistication for clear thinking about the problem. In each case, the results depended critically on persistent checking and cross-checking of facts and assumptions and on clear presentation of findings.
Perikaryal RNA changes within neurons of the caudate-putamen and substantia nigra in soman intoxicated rats.

Abstract Quantitative azure B cytophotometry was employed to monitor neuronal ribonucleic acid (RNA) metabolism within cholinergic and noncholinergic brain compartments following single sc injections of either 0.5, 0.9 or 1.5 LD 50 soman (pinacolyl methylphosphonofluoridate). Dose-dependent losses in neuronal RNA were observed within the cholinergic caudate-putamen (CP) and dopaminergic substantia nigra pars compacta (SNPC), whereas levels of RNA were generally maintained or elevated within the gabaergic substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNPR). CP acetylcholinesterase was inhibited in a dose-dependent fashion. These neuronal RNA changes are perhaps related to seizure activity. The overall data lend support to the hypothesis that alterations in noncholinergic activity contribute to certain manifestations of soman neurotoxicity, such as seizures, which probably stem from an impairment in the functional integrity of both excitatory and inhibitory neuronal elements.
Germination ecophysiology of the western North American species Osmorhiza depauperata (Apiaceae): implications of preadaptation and phylogenetic niche conservatism in seed dormancy evolution.

Requirements for dormancy break and embryo growth were determined for seeds of the western North American species, Osmorhiza depauperata. Seeds were collected in August 2001 from Sandia Crest (3200 m elevation) and Las Huertas (2300 m), New Mexico (USA). Embryos in fresh seeds were c. 0.6 mm long, and they had to grow to c. 9–10 mm before the radicle emerged from the mericarp. Embryo growth occurred at low temperatures (1 and 5°C), and seeds germinated to high percentages at 1°C during 32 weeks of incubation in the light. No seeds germinated at 5, 15/6, 20/10, 25/15 or 30/15°C during 32 weeks of incubation. Although a 4–18 week warm-temperature (25/15°C) pretreatment increased germination rates at 1°C, it was unnecessary for a high percentage of seeds to germinate. Gibberellic acid (GA3, 10–1000 mg l–1) did not substitute for cold stratification. Seeds from the low-elevation population contained larger embryos and required less time to germinate than those from the high-elevation population. O. depauperata seeds have deep complex morphophysiological dormancy (MPD), which is similar to two other western North American congeners and an Asian congener, but different from two eastern North American congeners. Results from this study suggest that: (1) phylogenetic niche conservatism has played a role in the persistence of deep complex MPD in the three western North American species of Osmorhiza; and (2) the stimulatory effect from a warm pretreatment in species needing only cold stratification for dormancy break is a preadaptation that initiated the development of an absolute warm requirement in species needing both warm and cold stratification.
PMD and OSNR insensitive 40-Gb/s OOK/DPSK chromatic dispersion monitoring using a delay-line interferometer and a <10-GHz photodetector

We experimentally demonstrate a chromatic dispersion monitoring technique utilizing a delay-line interferometer and a <10-GHz photodetector for 40-Gb/s OOK/DPSK. Spectral shift of RF dip changing with up to 560-ps/nm-CD is measured insensitive to 23-ps-DGD and <15-dB-OSNR.
Risk factors for the breakdown of perineal laceration repair after vaginal delivery.

Objective The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors that are associated with the breakdown of perineal laceration repair in the postpartum period. Study design We conducted a retrospective, case-control study to review perineal laceration repair breakdown in patients who were delivered between September 1995 and February 2005 at the University of Michigan. Bivariate analysis with chi-square test and t -test and stepwise logistic regression analysis were performed. Results Fifty-nine cases and 118 control deliveries were identified from a total of 14,124 vaginal deliveries. Risk factors were longer second stage of labor (142 vs 87 minutes; P = .001), operative vaginal delivery (odds ratio, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.8-7.3), mediolateral episiotomy (odds ratio, 6.9; 95% CI, 2.6-18.7), third- or fourth-degree laceration (odds ratio, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.5-6.4), and meconium-stained amniotic fluid (odds ratio, 3.0; 95% CI, 1.1-7.9). Previous vaginal delivery was protective (odds ratio, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.18-0.84). Logistic regression showed the most significant factor to be an interaction between operative vaginal delivery and mediolateral episiotomy (odd ratio, 6.36; 95% CI, 2.18-18.57). Conclusion The most significant events were mediolateral episiotomy, especially in conjunction with operative vaginal delivery, third- and fourth-degree lacerations, and meconium.
The protective and allergenic potency of four BCG substrains in use in China determined in two animal models

Abstract The objective of this study was to compare four BCG substrains from regional centres in China with BCG-Copenhagen 1331 (Danish strain) for protective and allergenic potencies. The comparisons were made in two different guinea pig models: one, a rational animal model involving aerosol challenge with 5–10 cfu Mycobacterium tuberculosis (strain H37Rv), and the other an animal model involving subcutaneous challenge with 250 cfu of H37Rv. For either model, the degree of protection was judged by quantitation of the number of H37Rv which could be recovered from the spleen. The results revealed: The allergenic potency of BCG-Shanghai and BCG-Beijing, substrains developed from the Danish strain, were comparable to that of the Danish vaccine. BCG-Lanzhou was significantly less allergenic and BCG-Chanchun, developed from BCG-Japan 172, was devoid of allergenic activity. Based on the number of H37Rv recovered from the spleen of guinea pigs killed 5 weeks after aerosol challenge, the protective effect of BCG-Shanghai and BCG-Beijing were comparable to that of the Danish vaccine. BCG-Lanzhou was of intermediate potency and BCG-Chanchun was devoid of protective activity. Based on the number of H37Rv recovered from the spleen of guinea pigs in the subcutaneous challenge group, the protective effects of BCG-Shanghai and BCG-Beijing were comparable to that of the Danish vaccine; BCG-Lanzhou was only slightly less potent, and BCG-Chanchun was devoid of protective activity. Good agreement was observed between the two animal models with respect to the protective potency of BCG vaccines.
Ranitidine pharmacokinetics in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

Ranitidine kinetics in renal failure were evaluated in six patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). On separate occasions each patient received either 50 mg intravenously (i.v.) or 150 mg orally of ranitidine HCl. Following i.v. administration, the plasma concentration vs time curve was best described by a two compartment model with firstorder elimination. The mean ± SD distribution and elimination rate constants were 2.47±0.78 and 0.098±0.013 h, respectively. The area under the serum concentration vs time curve after the i.v. dose was 5979±2870 μg·h· 1−1, resulting in a mean volume of distribution of 76.81 and a total body clearance of 126 ml·min−1. Following oral administration the observed maximum plasma concentration was 904±483 μg·l−1 at 4.2±1.8 h, and the bioavailability was 69.7±35.6%. The peritoneal clerance of ranitidine was 3.2±0.7 and 2.6±0.6 ml·min−1 for the i.v. and oral groups, respectively. The amount of drug removed by dialysis was 561.2±336.2 μg for the i.v. and 1197.1±602.3 μg for the oral group. Four patients in the i.v. group had urine output during the study period with renal ranitidine clearance values of 9.9±9.9 ml· min−1. Two patients in the oral group had urine output and corresponding renal ranitidine clearance values of 5.1 and 20.1 ml·min−1. A dosage regimen for ranitidine is proposed based on ranitidine kinetics in patients undergoing CAPD.
Crystallization of the Motile Major Sperm Protein (MSP) of the Nematode Ascaris suum

Abstract We have obtained orthorhombic crystals (space group P 2 1 2 1 2 1 , a = 72 A, b = 78 A, c = 452 A) of the major cytoskeletal protein associated with the amoeboid motility of Ascaris sperm. These crystals diffract past 3·5 A and appear to be constructed from arrays of helical fibres of the major sperm protein. The fibres within the crystals appear to be closely analogous to those seen in vitro and in vivo .
Planktonic Foraminifera: selective solution and paleoclimatic interpretation

Abstract Any sediment assemblage of planktonic Foraminifera contains at least three kinds of information: (1) the amount of solution it has experienced, (2) its geographic origin, (3) the range of depth habitats represented by the constituents species. By ranking the species with respect to their resistance to solution, their latitudinal occurence, and their preferred depth habitat, a portion of this information can be extracted. Selective solution can change the apparent latitudinal range of an assemblage and its depth habitat aspect. Corrections must be applied before drawing conclusions on the latter two ecological properties. It is then possible to trace in the sediments the movement of water bodies at different depth levels in the ocean. In the central Atlantic, the present current structure at the surface of the ocean is reflected in the bottom sediments with astonishing precision. The level at which the rate of ocean is reflected in the bottom sediments with astonishing precision. The level at which the rate of solution of calcium carbonate rapidly increases apparently coincides with the top of the Antarctic Bottom Water. Studies of older sediments suggest that the surface currents were wider, and the solution level stood higher in the past.
Intermolecular interactions in newly spread serum albumin monolayers

Abstract Intermolecular interactions in newly spread serum albumin monolayers (at equilibrium spreading pressure) have been investigated using a modified Brookfield viscometer. Despite the high surface concentration, the intermolecular interactions develop at a relatively slow rate, but by complicated kinetics. The magnitudes of the drag and of the rate show that the interactions are affected by the spreading solvent, the age of the film, the degree of shearing motion in the monolayer, the ionic strength, and the presence of urea and certain ions. The two-dimensional network, which forms with monolayers of serum albumin and also with a surface-active extract from mammalian lung, may be of the type required to stabilize natural membranes. From a rheological point of view, a network on the surface may require the introduction of a plastic component to completely characterize the flow behavior of a monolayer.
Skin effects of air pollution

The skin is a target organ for pollution and also allows the penetration of exogenous agents into the body. About 700,000 new cases of skin cancer were diagnosed in 1993, and 9100 people died of cancer; 76% of the deaths were due to melanoma. Skin cancers are most closely associated with exposure to UVB (290 to 320 nm) irradiation. For every 1% decrease in ozone there is a 2% increase in UVB irradiance, and therefore a 2% increase in skin cancer is predicted. Therefore the atmospheric pollution by ozone-depleting chemicals is a major concern to dermatologists. In addition to being a target organ and site of neoplasms and contact allergens, the skin is the site of significant absorption of environmental pollutants. In the case of chloroform, the percutaneous absorption is equivalent to the respiratory uptake, emphasizing how important it is to recognize skin absorption in toxicologic exposures.
1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-induced apoptosis and mitochondrial oxidant generation: role of transferrin-receptor-dependent iron and hydrogen peroxide

1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)) is a neurotoxin used in cellular models of Parkinson's Disease. Although intracellular iron plays a crucial role in MPP(+)-induced apoptosis, the molecular signalling mechanisms linking iron, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis are still unknown. We investigated these aspects using cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) and human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. MPP(+) enhanced caspase 3 activity after 24 h with significant increases as early as 12 h after treatment of cells. Pre-treatment of CGNs and neuroblastoma cells with the metalloporphyrin antioxidant enzyme mimic, Fe(III)tetrakis(4-benzoic acid)porphyrin (FeTBAP), completely prevented the MPP(+)-induced caspase 3 activity as did overexpression of glutathione peroxidase (GPx1) and pre-treatment with a lipophilic, cell-permeable iron chelator [N, N '-bis-(2-hydroxybenzyl)ethylenediamine-N, N '-diacetic acid, HBED]. MPP(+) treatment increased the number of TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end-labelling)-positive cells which was completely blocked by pre-treatment with FeTBAP. MPP(+) treatment significantly decreased the aconitase and mitochondrial complex I activities; pre-treatment with FeTBAP, HBED and GPx1 overexpression reversed this effect. MPP(+) treatment increased the intracellular oxidative stress by 2-3-fold, as determined by oxidation of dichlorodihydrofluorescein and dihydroethidium (hydroethidine). These effects were reversed by pre-treatment of cells with FeTBAP and HBED and by GPx1 overexpression. MPP(+)-treatment enhanced the cell-surface transferrin receptor (TfR) expression, suggesting a role for TfR-induced iron uptake in MPP(+) toxicity. Treatment of cells with anti-TfR antibody (IgA class) inhibited MPP(+)-induced caspase activation. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase activity did not affect caspase 3 activity, apoptotic cell death or ROS generation by MPP(+). Overall, these results suggest that MPP(+)-induced cell death in CGNs and neuroblastoma cells proceeds via apoptosis and involves mitochondrial release of ROS and TfR-dependent iron.
Anomaly Detection Based Secure In-Network Aggregation for Wireless Sensor Networks

Secure in-network aggregation in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is a necessary and challenging task. In this paper, we first propose integration of system monitoring modules and intrusion detection modules in the context of WSNs. We propose an extended Kalman filter (EKF) based mechanism to detect false injected data. Specifically, by monitoring behaviors of its neighbors and using EKF to predict their future states (actual in-network aggregated values), each node aims at setting up a normal range of the neighbors' future transmitted aggregated values. This task is challenging because of potential high packet loss rate, harsh environment, and sensing uncertainty. We illustrate how to use EKF to address this challenge to create effective local detection mechanisms. Using different aggregation functions (average, sum, max, and min), we present how to obtain a theoretical threshold. We further apply an algorithm of combining cumulative summation and generalized likelihood ratio to increase detection sensitivity. To overcome the limitations of local detection mechanisms, we illustrate how our proposed local detection approaches work together with the system monitoring module to differentiate between malicious events and emergency events. We conduct experiments and simulations to evaluate local detection mechanisms under different aggregation functions.
Evaluating Protein Interactions & Organelle Dynamics in Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Spatial Distribution of Molecular Chaperone/Co-Chaperones Evident at a Sub-organelle Level in the Endoplasmic Reticulum

BiP/Kar2 is a member of the Hsp70 family of chaperones that resides in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of S. cerevisiae. Biochemical and genetics experiments have demonstrated BiP's association with selective co-chaperones in multiple critical processes of the cell including translocation of protein into the ER, protein folding/maturation, and ER-associated degradation (ERAD). BiP's relative high cellular concentration combined with the low resolution of traditional immunofluorescence techniques has hindered the determination of protein localization effects. We hypothesize that the spatial heterogeneity of chaperones is regulated by co-chaperones, and this heterogeneity serves as a means of dictating cellular functions. To generate physiologically-relevant data of protein dynamics in S. cerevisiae, variants of green fluorescent protein (GFP) coupled with advances in confocal light microscopy techniques have allowed us to track multiple fluorescently-tagged proteins in vivo.Dual expression strains composed of fusion proteins, BiP and co-chaperone Sec63, reveal that a heterogeneous spatial distribution is evident at the sub-organelle level. Secondary confirmation of our results has been performed using immunofluorescence techniques in multiple S. cerevisiae strains. Deconvolution of fixed cell images has allowed us to reconstruct and quantify the co-localization of BiP and Sec63 in three dimensions. We have captured the spatiotemporal effects of protein dynamics in live cells by monitoring ER membrane and luminal proteins, in addition to the nuclear pore complex; confirmed that the ER is continuous through Fluorescence Loss in Photobleaching (FLiP) experiments; and captured rapid diffusion of ER resident proteins. Integration of experimental data and computational design enables us to develop stochastic models of biological systems that accurately reflect spatiotemporal effects of molecular chaperone/co-chaperone interactions.
THE FLAT SKY: CALIBRATION AND BACKGROUND UNIFORMITY IN WIDE FIELD ASTRONOMICAL IMAGES

Gradients in the surface brightness of the twilight and night sky require careful consideration both in the flat-field calibration and in the subsequent reduction of images that cover a large angular field. We present observations of BVRI surface brightness gradients in the twilight sky, and discuss some strategies for the treatment of gradients in the moonlit and dark sky.
Student-College Interaction: Affective Impact At A Private Junior College.

Abstract This study investigates the impact of the college environment on student personalities. It probes the question of whether a college can make a significant difference in the social and intellectual development of a student. It identifies the specific changes in emotions, interests, and outlook on life that college experience should and can achieve for its students. In a two-year longitudinal investigation, including pretests and post-tests, the personality needs and values of students who attended a private junior college in 1968 and in 1974 were determined through the use of the Activities Index, a personality inventory, and the Allport–Vernon–Lindzey Value Profile. To explore the effects of the college climate as it may have affected the needs and values of the students, Stern's College Characteristic Index was administered to the students. The interaction of the personality needs of the students with the college press as perceived by the students indicated positive shifts in the aspirational le...
Object Representation and Recognition Using Mathematical Morphology Model

The integration of representation and recognition of rigid solid objects is becoming increasingly important in computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), computer graphics, computer vision, and other fields that deal with spatial phenomena. The mathematical framework used for modeling solid objects is mathematical morphology, which is based on set-theoretic concept. The mathematical characteristics of these operators are investigated in order to achieve a formal theory. Using mathematical morphology as a tool, our theoretical research aims at studying the representation schemes for the dimension and tolerance of the geometric structure. Object features can be also extracted by using the mathematical morphology approach. Through a distance transformation, we can obtain the shape number, significant points database, and skeleton. We have also developed the object recognition, localization, and corner and circle detection algorithms.
A comparison of women's and men's leisure time: subtle effects of the double day.

Abstract In this article women's and men's leisure time were examined using the 1981 Study of Time Use (Juster, Hill, Stafford, & Parsons, 1983). Gender differences in total leisure time, types of leisure activities, and the effects of household labor time and paid labor time on women's and men's leisure time were assessed. Although there were few significant differences in women's and men's leisure time expenditures, some differences in the determinants of leisure were found. Although household labor time affects women's and men's leisure time in the same way, the impact of paid labor time on leisure time varies by gender and by type of leisure. Paid labor time has a stronger effect on women's nondomestic leisure time than on men's, whereas the reverse is true for domestic leisure time. The different types of leisure activities in which women and men engage, and their different time expenditures for paid work and housework, combined to produce these different patterns of effects.
Radiofrequency ablation combined with liposomal quercetin to increase tumour destruction by modulation of heat shock protein production in a small animal model

Purpose: To investigate the effect of heat shock protein (HSP) modulation on tumour coagulation by combining radiofrequency (RF) ablation with adjuvant liposomal quercetin and/or doxorubicin in a rat tumour model.Methods: Sixty R3230 breast adenocarcinoma tumours/animals were used in this IACUC-approved study. Initially, 60 tumours (n = 6, each subgroup) were randomised into five groups: (1) RF alone, (2) intravenous (IV) liposomal quercetin alone (1 mg/kg), (3) IV liposomal quercetin followed 24 h later with RF, (4) RF followed 15 min later by IV liposomal doxorubicin (8 mg/kg), (5) IV liposomal quercetin 24 h before RF followed by IV liposomal doxorubicin 15 min post-ablation. Animals were sacrificed 4 or 24 h post-treatment and gross coagulation diameters were compared. Next, immunohistochemistry staining was performed for Hsp70 and cleaved caspase-3 expression. Comparisons were performed by using Student t-tests or ANOVA.Results: Combination RF-quercetin significantly increased coagulation size compar...
Reading and interpreting the scientific evidence.

Nurses often need to find scientific evidence to help them determine the best practice available in a particular situation or in a periodic review of policies and procedures. Conversely, a nurse may read an article and may assume that it warrants consideration for implementation in the practice setting. It is common for people to find the research literature confusing. A previous column (To Engage in Evidence Based Practice, You Must First Find the Evidence) addressed the issue of locating relevant scientific evidence; this column is intended to demystify research articles.
Z-dependences of the energy levels of autoionization states for Be-like ions

Abstract The perturbation theory method was used for the calculation of atomic energy levels of autoionization states for Be-like ions. Correlation, relativistic and radiative effects are taken into account. The resulting theoretical wavelengths (1s2s22p−1s22s2, 1s2s2p2−1s2s2p, 1s2p3−1s22p2) are compared with available experimental data along the isoelectronic sequence to identify irregularities in the experimental data and to predict wavelengths of ions whose values are unknown or uncertain.
A preliminary comparison of the efficacy and tolerability of botulinum toxin serotypes A and B in the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome: A retrospective, open-label chart review

Abstract Background: Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is characterized by acute or chronic regional muscle pain associated with single or multiple trigger points within taut bands of muscle. Botulinum toxins have clinical utility when sustained focal muscle relaxation is required and may be a useful addition to the treatment armamentarium for MPS. Objective: The purpose of the present article was to compare the efficacy and tolerability of botulinum toxin serotypes A and B (BTX-A and BTX-B) in the treatment of MPS. Methods: This was a retrospective, open-label, single-center chart review. Charts of all patients who received either BTX-A or BTX-B for MPS between January and November 2001 were included in the review. Patients rated the intensity of their pain on a visual analog scale (VAS) from 0=no pain to 10=worst pain imaginable before and after receiving BTX-A or BTX-B. Results: The charts of 91 patients (74.7% female, 25.3% male; mean [SD] age, 47 [10.2] years) who received BTX-A (n = 56; mean dose, 256.9 U; range, 100–600 U) or BTX-B (n = 35; mean dose, 9000 U; range, 2500–20,000 U) were included in this retrospective review. Patients who received BTX-A had significantly greater mean reductions in VAS pain scores compared with those who received BTX-B (mean reduction, 2.7 vs 1.8, respectively; P Conclusion : Patients with MPS who received BTX-A reported significantly greater reductions in pain for longer durations compared with those who received BTX-B. No patients who received BTX-A experienced severe systemic adverse events, compared with 4 patients who received BTX-B. The results of this comparison are consistent with the US Food and Drug Administration-approved labeling indicating that BTX-A is not interchangeable with any other botulinum toxin in terms of biological activity.
Efficient particle filtering using RANSAC with application to 3D face tracking

Particle filtering is a very popular technique for sequential state estimation. However, in high-dimensional cases where the state dynamics are complex or poorly modeled, thousands of particles are usually required for real applications. This paper presents a hybrid sampling solution that combines RANSAC and particle filtering. In this approach, RANSAC provides proposal particles that, with high probability, represent the observation likelihood. Both conditionally independent RANSAC sampling and boosting-like conditionally dependent RANSAC sampling are explored. We show that the use of RANSAC-guided sampling reduces the necessary number of particles to dozens for a full 3D tracking problem. This method is particularly advantageous when state dynamics are poorly modeled. We show empirically that the sampling efficiency (in terms of likelihood) is much higher with the use of RANSAC. The algorithm has been applied to the problem of 3D face pose tracking with changing expression. We demonstrate the validity of our approach with several video sequences acquired in an unstructured environment.
Les orientations de la modernisation navale chinoise

L’usage que Pekin entend faire des nouvelles capacites d’une marine chinoise modernisee dans la derniere decennie est peu clair. Les progres de la marine chinoise dans les trois dimensions principales de la puissance navale nous offrent pourtant quelques indices sur ses priorites. Meilleure capacite de projection de force ou de protection des voies maritimes, avancee en termes de capacite de deni : l’antagonisme avec les Etats-Unis semble bien au cœur de la modernisation navale chinoise. politique etrangere
Dimuon measurements and the strange-quark sea

This paper discusses a method for the extraction of the ratio f/sub s/=..integral..xs(x)dx/..integral..xd(x)dx from dimuon rate measurements in neutrino and antineutrino scattering which takes into account the threshold effects for heavy-quark production. From the y dependence of nu-bar scattering to dimuon final states the parameter m/sub c/ /sup 2/, which appears in the definition of the slow rescaling variable xi=x+m/sub c/ /sup 2//2EM/sub p/y, is estimated. This paper further discusses the crucial uncertainties inherent in the measurement of f/sub s/.
The Production of Selective Emission by Flames

A form of apparatus is described by which illuminating gas, discharging through a type of Bunsen burner, may be loaded with salts whose bases produce notable selective emission. Spraying units are designed to discharge into a single burner if desired, permitting of rapid and easy change from one to another. The flames are remarkably intense and constant.
Dynamics of oocyte development and related changes in serum estradiol-17β, yolk precursor, and lipid levels in the teleostean fish, Leptocottus armatus

Abstract 1. 1. The dynamics of ovarian development in Leptocottus armatus were studied. Seasonal changes of serum estradiol-17β, serum vitellogenin, serum total lipids and visceral lipid reserves were monitored. 2. 2. Two to four distinct size classes (clutches) of oocytes occurred in the ovary preceding and during the spawning period. One of these clutches contained oocytes in the vitellogenic or post-vitellogenic phase, a second clutch contained oocytes “arrested” in the cortical alveoli stage and a third clutch contained non-yolky oocytes. Only one clutch was oviposited in the annual spawning season. 3. 3. Estradiol levels increased coincident with the appearance of yolky oocytes in the ovary. Serum estrogen levels were highest during the period of ovulation and spawning. During the spawning period estradiol titers were not significantly correlated with oocyte size or gonosomatic index. 4. 4. Serum vitellogenin levels increased in parallel with oocyte size and estradiol titers. Vitellogenin levels were relatively low during the early portion of the spawning period, becoming elevated again towards the end of the spawning period. In concordance with ovarian regression, serum vitellogenin levels declined and remained low during the ovarian quiescence phase. Neither GSI nor serum estradiol titers correlated significantly with vitellogenin levels. 5. 5. With initiation of ovarian recrudescence visceral lipid reserves began to decline and continued to decline through the vitellogenic and spawning phases. Visceral lipid reserves were inversely correlated with ovarian GSI. Serum lipid levels were high during ovarian recrudescence, remaining elevated through the spawning period. During the phase of ovarian quiescence serum lipid levels were low and visceral lipid reserves were high. Visceral lipid reserves showed an inverse correlation to serum estradiol titers.
Effect of group size, sex and time on organ weights, catecholamines and behavior in mice

Abstract Male and female mice were subjected to isolation and excessive overcrowding for 1-week and 4-week periods to determine [1], what effect population density would have on organ weights and catecholamines in relationship to behavioral changes, and [2], in what manner time might influence these interactions. The only consistent significant physiologic and biochemical effects were sex-related and were not modified by changes in the environment. However, fighting behavior, a sex-related characteristic that was only elicited in the male mice, required a change in the environment, i.e. isolation, to be expressed. Thus, no measurable biochemical effect could be associated with a change in behavior.
Left atrial myxoma associated with rheumatic mitral stenosis.

The rare occurrence of mitral stenosis and coexistent left atrial myxoma is reported. The patient had a 25-year history of rheumatic heart disease and was referred for evaluation of progressive mitral stenosis without clinical suspicion of left atrial myxoma. The tumor was discovered by routine echocardiography in the course of evaluation of mitral stenosis. However, prior to surgery the patient experienced an episode of embolization of the tumor without major clinical sequelae. The utility of echocardiography in this case and in patients with mitral stenosis is discussed as well as the patient's spontaneous "cure."
The Levels of Leukemia Inhibitory Factor mRNA in a Schwann Cell Line Are Regulated by Multiple Second Messenger Pathways

Abstract: Axotomy of sympathetic and sensory neurons leads to changes in their neuropeptide phenotypes. These changes are mediated in part by the induction of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) by nonneuronal cells. In the present study, we identified satellite/Schwann cells as a possible source of the injury-induced LIF. Using a Schwann cell line, SC-1 cells, we examined mechanisms of LIF induction. LIF mRNA levels increased rapidly when the cells were treated with 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), or A23187. Among these reagents, PMA was the most efficacious. Inhibition of protein kinase C (PKC) by GF-109203X significantly reduced the PMA-induced LIF mRNA levels. As PKC is known to activate the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway, the involvement of this pathway in the PMA-stimulated induction of LIF mRNA was examined. Phosphorylation of ERKs was increased following PMA treatment in SC-1 cells. Moreover, inhibition of ERK kinase activity by PD98059 dramatically reduced PMA-stimulated phosphorylation of ERKs and induction of LIF mRNA. These results indicate that LIF mRNA levels can be regulated by ERK activation via stimulation of PKC in Schwann cells.
Validation Of The Airspace Concept Evaluation System Using Real World Data

This paper discusses the process of performing a validation of the Airspace Concept Evaluation System (ACES) using real world historical flight operational data. ACES inputs are generated from select real world data and processed to create a realistic reproduction of a single day of operations within the National Airspace System (NAS). ACES outputs are then compared to real world operational metrics and delay statistics for the reproduced day. Preliminary results indicate that ACES produces delays and airport operational metrics similar to the real world with minor variations of delay by phase of flight. ACES is a nation-wide fast-time simulation tool developed at NASA Ames Research Center. ACES models and simulates the NAS using interacting agents representing center control, terminal flow management, airports, individual flights, and other NAS elements. These agents pass messages between one another similar to real world communications. This distributed agent based system is designed to emulate the highly unpredictable nature of the NAS, making it a suitable tool to evaluate current and envisioned airspace concepts. To ensure that ACES produces the most realistic results, the system must be validated. There is no way to validate future concepts scenarios using real world historical data, but current day scenario validations increase confidence in the validity of future scenario results. Each operational day has unique weather and traffic demand schedules. The more a simulation utilizes the unique characteristic of a specific day, the more realistic the results should be. ACES is able to simulate the full scale demand traffic necessary to perform a validation using real world data. Through direct comparison with the real world, models may continuee to be improved and unusual trends and biases may be filtered out of the system or used to normalize the results of future concept simulations.
Cellular effects of transferrin coordinated to [Cl(NH3)5Ru]Cl2 and cis-[Cl2(NH3)4Ru]Cl

Abstract Estimates of the net equilibrium binding constants for [(H 2 O)(NH 3 ) 5 Ru II ] 2+ , [Cl(NH 3 ) 5 Ru III ] 2+ , cis -[(H 2 O) 2 (NH 3 ) 4 Ru II ] 2+ and cis -[Cl 2 (NH 3 ) 4 Ru III ] + with apotransferrin (Tf) and holotransferrin (Fe 2 Tf) suggests that Ru III , but not Ru II complexes bind with a higher affinity to the iron binding sites. Several other presumably histidyl imidazole sites bind with approximately the same affinity ( K eff =10 2 to 10 3 M −1 ) to both Ru II and Ru III . Compared to HeLa cells, an order of magnitude higher level of nuclear DNA binding ([Ru] DNA /[P] DNA ) was required to achieve the same level of toxicity in Jurkat T ag cells, which probably relates to the substantially higher levels of cis -[Cl 2 (NH 3 ) 4 Ru] + needed to inhibit 50% of the cell growth in the Jurkat T ag cell line. Against Jurkat T ag cells, the toxicity of the pentaammineruthenium(III) group is enhanced by approximately two orders of magnitude upon binding primarily to the Fe-sites in apotransferrin, whereas the toxicity of the tetraammineruthenium(III) moiety is only marginally increased. Binding to Fe 2 Tf does not increase the toxicity of either group. Significant dissociation over 24 h of the ammineruthenium(III) ions from apotransferrin requires reduction to Ru II .
MODIS 3 km aerosol product: applications over land in an urban/suburban region

Abstract. MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) instruments aboard the Terra and Aqua satellites have provided a rich dataset of aerosol information at a 10 km spatial scale. Although originally intended for climate applications, the air quality community quickly became interested in using the MODIS aerosol data. However, 10 km resolution is not sufficient to resolve local scale aerosol features. With this in mind, MODIS Collection 6 includes a global aerosol product with a 3 km resolution. Here, we evaluate the 3 km product over the Baltimore–Washington D.C., USA, corridor during the summer of 2011 by comparing with spatially dense aerosol data measured by airborne High Spectral Resolution Lidar (HSRL) and a network of 44 sun photometers (SP) spaced approximately 10 km apart, collected as part of the DISCOVER-AQ field campaign. The HSRL instrument shows that AOD can vary by over 0.2 within a single 10 km MODIS pixel, meaning that higher resolution satellite retrievals may help to better characterize aerosol spatial distributions in this region. Different techniques for validating a high-resolution aerosol product against SP measurements are considered. Although the 10 km product is more statistically reliable than the 3 km product, the 3 km product still performs acceptably with nearly two-thirds of MODIS/SP collocations falling within an expected error envelope with high correlation (R > 0.90), although with a high bias of ~ 0.06. The 3 km product can better resolve aerosol gradients and retrieve closer to clouds and shorelines than the 10 km product, but tends to show more noise, especially in urban areas. This urban degradation is quantified using ancillary land cover data. Overall, we show that the MODIS 3 km product adds new information to the existing set of satellite derived aerosol products and validates well over the region, but due to noise and problems in urban areas, should be treated with some degree of caution.
the marketing of heritage

Captured Heritage: The Scramble for Northwest Coast Artifacts. DOUGLAS COLE. The Invention of Tradition. ERIC HOBSBAWM and TERENCE RANGER, eds. The Meaning of Things: Domestic Symbols and the Self. MIHALY CSIKSZENTMIHALYI and EUGENE ROCHBERG-HALTON. The Gift: Imagination and the Erotic Life of Property. LEWIS HYDE.
A simple model of transmitter release and facilitation

We describe a model of synaptic transmitter release and presynaptic facilitation that is based on activation of release sites by single Ca2+ C microdomains. Facilitation is due to Ca2+ that remains...
Nanosecond-resolved optically detected magnetic resonance: application to the study of triplet-state spin—lattice relaxation in benzil crystals

Abstract A zero field magnetic resonance spectrometer capable of investigating triplet states undergoing physical or chemical processes in tens of nanoseconds is described. The spectrometer employs pulsed laser excitation and time-resolved phosphorescence detection, together with very high power (1 kW) microwave pulses. The technique was used to survey the triplet-state spin—lattice relaxation in benzil crystals at temperatures up to 217 K.
A Rare Case of Double Parathyroid Lipoadenoma With Hyperparathyroidism

A rare case of double lipoadenomas of parathyroid glands with hyperparathyroidism is described. A 56-year-old woman was referred for management of diabetes. Work up revealed: serum Calcium (Ca) =11.9 mg/dl, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) = 103 ml/min/m2, parathyroid hormone (PTH) = 60 pg/ml, Phosphorus = 3.0 mg/dl, 25 hydroxy vitamin D (25 OH D) =16.5 ng/ml, 24 h urine Calcium =179 mg/day. Parathyroid sestamibi scan showed increased activity in the left thyroid and right thyroid lobe. Single photon emission computed tomography demonstrated uptake in inferior left and right thyroid lobes. Her serum calcium following successful bilateral parathyroidectomy was 9.3 mg/dl. Pathology showed double parathyroid lipoadenomas. After surgery, her serum Calcium and PTH normalized to 9.8 mg/dl and 32 pg/ml respectively. Lipoadenoma has been described as a very rare lesion of the parathyroid gland and is most commonly non-functional. PubMed search failed to reveal any case of hyperparathyroidism due to double parathyroid lipoadenomas.
A safe therapeutic apheresis protocol in paediatric patients weighing 11 to 25 kg

Background and Objectives Erythrocytapheresis and leukapheresis (LPE) of small children are logistically complex and many centres are reluctant to perform these procedures. In children, both sickle cell and leukaemic emergencies demand prompt action to prevent additional morbidity but detailed protocols for small children are lacking, and often are performed using guidelines shown to work in larger patients. We report a 3-year experience with children weighing 11–25 kg at a large academic medical centre. Materials and Methods All patients were treated with the COBE® Spectra apheresis system; circuit was primed with blood not adjusted for haematocrit and anticoagulant citrate dextrose A was used as anticoagulation. Procedures were performed in the paediatric intensive care unit by apheresis nursing staff. Results Twenty-five apheresis procedures in 19 patients were performed; 17 of 19 patients presented with sickle cell-related acute complications and two (2/19) with newly diagnosed acute leukaemia and hyperleucocytosis. None of the patients required medications during the procedures. Vital signs and clinical condition remained stable and did not worsen during or postapheresis. One patient had a delayed haemolytic transfusion reaction 1 week posterythrocytapheresis as he developed alloantibodies as a result of the procedure. All sickle cell patients achieved a target haematocrit of 21–30% and Haemoglobin A of ≥68%. Both leukaemia patients who underwent LPE had no further signs of leukostasis and achieved marked reductions in leucocyte counts. Conclusions Apheresis of children weighing 11–25 kg can be safely performed without increased morbidity. We outline a protocol that can be used to perform apheresis with minimal complications.
ArF laser excitation, collisional transfer, and quench-free fluorescence in I2/foreign gas mixtures

Abstract Fluorescence of I2 excited by an ArF excimer laser at 193 nm has been studied in the presence of 10 buffer gases (He, Ne, Ar, Kr, Xe, N2, O2, air, CF4, and SF6) over the pressure range from 0 to 700 Torr . At low pressure, the fluorescence is dominated by the bound–bound and bound–free (McLennan band) emission for D 1 Σ u + → X 1 Σ g + . With increasing pressure, significant fractions of the D state population are collisionally transferred to the D′ state; this results in strong D ′ 3 Π 2 g → A ′ 3 Π 2 u band flourescence at 340 nm . A simple four-level model is developed to describe these processes. Quenching and transfer rate coefficients are measured for the 10 gases. With the exception of Xe, O2, and air, which exhibit reactive quenching in addition to collisional quenching, the 340-nm-band fluorescence is resistant to quenching.
A REGIONAL APPROACH TO PROJECT EVALUATION

. Water and related land resource planning has generally been characterized by project evaluation in isolation. Feasible alternatives have been ignored because the economic analysis did not include the interdependence of such subregional and regional variables as factor and product prices and production possibilities. This paper presents an economic framework, consistent with a regional development objective and an efficiency criterion, for proposing and evaluating resource projects. Subregional and regional derived demand curves for water are developed under alternative assumptions of subregional competition, regional market restraints, and yield and price uncertainty. The derivation of water demand curves using the proposed regional framework as compared to sub regional isolation has the desirable properties of (1) a marginal analysis that is more flexible over time is substituted for a static average analysis; (2) range estimates incorporating probabilities are substituted for point estimates; (3) approximations to functional demand curves are substituted for “needs”; and (4) fewer resources are required to meet a regional market restraint.
Headstrong intervention for pediatric migraine headache: a randomized clinical trial

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a self-guided CD-ROM program (“Headstrong”) containing cognitive-behavioral self-management strategies versus an educational CD-ROM program for treating headaches, headache-related disability, and quality of life. Participants were 35 children ages 7–12 years with migraine recruited from one university medical center and two children’s hospital headache clinics. Participants were randomly assigned to complete the Headstrong or educational control CD-ROM program over a 4-week period. Data on headache frequency, duration, and severity, migraine-related disability, and quality of life (QOL) were obtained at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-months post-intervention. At post-intervention, Headstrong resulted in lower severity (on a 10-point scale) than the control group by child report (5.06 ± 1.50 SD vs. 6.25 ± 1.92 SD, p = 0.03, ES = 0.7). At 3-months post-intervention, parents reported less migraine-related disability (on the PedMIDAS) in the Headstrong group compared to the control group (1.36 ± 2.06 SD vs. 5.18 ± 6.40 SD; p = 0.04, ES = 0.8). There were no other group differences at post treatment or at 3-months post-intervention. When compared to an educational control, Headstrong resulted in lower pain severity at post-treatment and less migraine-related disability at 3-months post-intervention, by child and parent report respectively. Headache frequency and quality of life did not change more for Headstrong versus control. Additional research is needed on the Headstrong Program to increase its efficacy and to test it with a larger sample recruited from multiple centers simultaneously.