cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of maternal source and progeny microhabitat on natural selection and population dynamics in Alliaria petiolata.

PREMISE The success or failure of propagules in contrasting microhabitats may play a role in biological invasion. We tested for variation in demographic performance and phenotypic trait expression during invasion by Alliaria petiolata in different microhabitats. METHODS We performed a reciprocal transplant experiment with Alliaria petiolata from edge, intermediate, and forest understory microhabitats to determine the roles of the environment and maternal source on traits, fecundity, population growth rates (λ), and selection. RESULTS Observations of in situ populations show that edge populations had the highest density and reproductive output, and forest populations had the lowest. In experimental populations, population growth rates and reproductive output were highest in the edge, and the intermediate habitat had the lowest germination and juvenile survival. Traits exhibited phenotypic plasticity in response to microhabitat, but that plasticity was not adaptive. There were few effects of maternal source location on fitness components or traits. CONCLUSIONS Alliaria petiolata appears to be viable, or nearly so, in all three microhabitat types, with edge populations likely providing seed to the other microhabitats. The intermediate microhabitat may filter propagules at the seed stage, but discrepancies between in situ observations and experimental transplants preclude clear conclusions about the role of each microhabitat in niche expansion. However, edge microhabitats show the highest seed output in both analyses, suggesting that managing edge habitats might reduce spread to the forest understory.
Pris pour cible dans la banlieue: Self-identity, language maintenance, racism and exclusion amongst African youths in the Paris suburbs:

Young people of African descent from the suburbs surrounding Paris are in a state of crisis and are feeling increasingly ostracised from a majority French society that marginalises them via institu...
Trevor Norris (Ed.), Strong Democracy in Crisis: Promise or Peril?

In academia, a scholar’s work is constantly pigeonholed by other academics into established categories for our various subjects of inquiry. In the case of democratic theory, it is to label one as a...
AudioMask: Robust Sound Event Detection Using Mask R-CNN and Frame-Level Classifier

Deep learning methods have recently made significant contributions to sound event detection. These methods either use a block-level approach to distinguish parts of audio containing the event, or analyze the small frames of the audio separately. In this paper, we introduce a new method, AudioMask, for rare sound event detection by combining these two approaches. AudioMask first applies Mask R-CNN, a state-of-the-art algorithm for detecting objects in images, to the log mel-spectrogram of the audio files. Mask R-CNN detects audio segments that might contain the target event by generating bounding boxes around them in time-frequency domain. Then we use a frame-based audio event classifier trained independently from Mask R-CNN, to analyze each individual frame in the candidate segments proposed by Mask R-CNN. A post-processing step combines the outputs of the Mask R-CNN and the frame-level classifier to identify the true events. By evaluating AudioMask over the data sets from 2017 Detection and Classification of Acoustic Scenes and Events (DCASE) Challenge Task 2, We show that our algorithm performs better than the baseline models by 13.3% in the average F-score and achieves better results compared to the other non-ensemble methods in the challenge.
Graded transantral orbital decompression outcomes in stable thyroid eye disease: a series of 47 orbits.

Purpose: To provide outcome data for transantral orbital decompression for functional and aesthetic rehabilitation for exophthalmos in stable thyroid eye disease (TED).Methods: Retrospective, non-c...
The Association of Race/Ethnicity, Dietary Intake, and Physical Activity with Depression

This study investigated the association of race/ethnicity, dietary intake, and physical activity with depression and potential other barriers associated with the use of mental health services among depressed people. We used the nationally representative data, 2011–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Depression status was defined using a Patient Health Questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regressions were conducted on depression status and the use of mental health specialists among depressed adults, accounting for the complex sampling design. The prevalence of depression was 8.3% with substantial racial/ethnic differences (8.0% for white, 3.1% for Asian, 9.2% for black, 7.6% for Mexican Hispanics, 13.0% for other Hispanics). Good/acceptable diet and a high level of physical activity were negatively associated with depression. Among depressed people, no significant racial/ethnic differences were observed in using mental health specialists. Prevalence for depression was lower among people who have good or acceptable diet and moderate physical activity. These modifiable factors as well as race/ethnicity should be incorporated into psychotherapeutic interventions to improve depression.
Protocol for Designing Small-Molecule-Regulated Destabilizing Domains for In Vitro Use.

Summary The use of destabilizing domains (DDs) to conditionally control the abundance of a protein of interest (POI) through a small-molecule stabilizer has gained increasing traction both in vitro and in vivo. Yet there are specific considerations for the development and accurate control of user-defined POIs via DDs, as well as the identification of novel (and potentially synergistic) small-molecule stabilizers. Here, we describe a platform for achieving these goals. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Ramadurgum et al. (2020) .
Attacks on Lightweight Hardware-Based Security Primitives.

In today's digital age, the ease of data collection, transfer, and storage continue to shape modern society and the ways we interact with our world. The advantages are numerous, but there is also an increased risk of information unintentionally falling into the wrong hands. Finding methods of protecting sensitive information at the hardware level is of utmost importance, and in this paper, we aim to provide a survey on recent developments in attacks on lightweight hardware-based security primitives (LHSPs) designed to do just that. Specifically, we provide an analysis of the attack resilience of these proposed LHSPs in an attempt to bring awareness to any vulnerabilities that may exist. We do this in the hope that it will encourage the continued development of attack countermeasures as well as completely new methods of data protection in order to prevent the discussed methods of attack from remaining viable in the future. The types of LHSPs discussed include physical unclonable functions (PUFs) and true random number generators (TRNGs), with a primary emphasis placed on PUFs.
Quem Atirou Em Nóis Errou

Texto/ensaio sobre o projeto as relacoes de colonialidade no projeto artistico Nao Coma O Microfone que aconteceu na instuicao psiquiatrica Dr. Guislain - Gent (Be) e no Polo Experimental / Museu Bispo do Rosario - Rio de Janeiro (BR). Abstract Text/essay on the relations of coloniality in the artistic project (Don’t) Eat the Microphone that took place at the psychiatric institution Dr. Guislain (Gent/BE) and at the Polo Experimental / Museu Bispo do Rosario (Rio de Janeiro/BR).
Enamine N -Oxides: Synthesis and Application to Hypoxia-Responsive Prodrugs and Imaging Agents.

Tumor hypoxia induces the large-scale adaptive reprogramming of cancer cells, promoting their transformation into highly invasive and metastatic species that lead to highly negative prognoses for cancer patients. We describe the synthesis and application of a hypoxia-responsive trigger derived from previously inaccessible enamine N-oxide structures. Hypoxia-dependent reduction of this motif by hemeproteins results in the concomitant activation of a caged molecule and a latent electrophile. We exploit the former in a hypoxia-activated prodrug application using a caged staurosporine molecule as a proof-of-principle. We demonstrate the latter in in vivo tumor labeling applications with enamine-N-oxide-modified near-infrared probes. Hypoxia-activated prodrug development has long been complicated by the heterogeneity of tumor hypoxia in patients. The dual drug release and imaging modalities of the highly versatile enamine N-oxide motif present an attractive opportunity for theranostic development that can address the need not only for new therapeutics but paired methods for patient stratification.
Contributions of ovarian stromal cells to follicle culture

Survival rates after cancer have increased significantly in recent decades; however, these treatments also have drawbacks and patients (or parents in the case of children) must be informed of the long-term side effects of oncological treatments and the possible options for preserving the fertility of these patients. In oncological patients two special circumstances often arise: a short time to stimulate ovulation and the necessity of not reaching high estradiol levels. In applying embryo-freezing techniques to preserve the fertility of oncology patients, it is very important to know the couple's preference for the disposition of any unused embryos. Up to now, embryo cryopreservation has been the only clinically accepted method for preserving the fertility of oncology patients before they undergo chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. The post-thawing pregnancy rates are acceptable and are around 30% per cryoreplacement depending on the number of embryos available and their quality.
Location of Ferritin-Labeled Concanavalin A Binding to Influenza Virus and Tumor Cell Surfaces

Concanavalin A (Con-A) was linked to ferritin with glutaraldehyde and chromatographed on Sepharose 6B to separate unconjugated Con-A and ferritin from covalently cross-linked molecules. Ehrlich ascites tumor cells were infected with WSA influenza virus, stained at intervals with the ferritin-labeled Con-A and examined by electron microscopy. The surfaces of most mature viruses were specifically stained, providing direct evidence that influenza viruses maturing in this cell type have exposed Con-A receptor sites. The ferritin cores of the staining reagent were found at an average distance of 21.3 nm from the virus membrane and 10.8 nm from the uninfected cell membrane. This finding was interpreted to mean that the population of Con-A receptor sites on influenza virus particles is located at an average distance from the virus membrane twice that of the population of Con-A receptor sites found on uninfected cells. The structural elements of viral membranes can provide a reliable means for evaluating electron microscopy staining reagents, thereby enhancing their usefulness as probes for the study of membrane relationships.
Prejudice and the Unexamined Life: A Neuro-psychoanalytic Framework for the Repressed Conflict between Ethnic and National Identities among Arab-Jews in Israel

This article proposes a framework for understanding the processes involved in politically-motivated memory and identity formation. Specifically, it examines how these processes respond to both explicit and implicit politico-social motivations to suppress certain parts of them while augmenting others. The proposed framework draws from emerging commonalities between neuro-cognitive and psychoanalytic theories, and conceptualizes both internal and external prejudice as motivated cognitive-emotional phenomena in and of themselves, devoid of politically-motivated cognitive biases or prejudice. Using autobiographical, biographical and scholarly sources, I examine the motivated dissociation between the avowed and disavowed aspects of the conflicted Arab identity among Arab-Jews in Israel is examined. Following psychoanalytic theory, the proposed framework may explain not only the internal conflict within the Iraqi-Jewish community, but also the vehement support for anti-Arab political sentiments within the larger Arab-Jewish community in Israel (known more by the euphemism ‘Sephardi Jews’) – as ordained by the hegemonic Ashkenazi Zionist elite of Israel for the past 100 years. This article then traces evidence for the ‘return of the repressed’ among a growing number of contemporary Israeli Jews of Arab descent, who seem increasingly aware of the limited ability of the Zionist ‘melting pot’ ideology to adequately represent their identity. Based on the proposed framework, this article advocates for the impartial exploration of the disavowed Arab identity among Israeli Jews as a potential source of reducing pathogenic anti-Arab prejudice and promoting greater humanism in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Action of Penicillin G on Endosymbiote Lambda Particles of Paramecium aurelia

Abstract The kinetics of loss from the cytoplasm and changes in ultrastructure of symbiont lambda particles after treatment of axenically cultivated lambda-bearing Paramecium aurelia with penicillin G was investigated. Low concentrations (1 to 2 unit/ml) of the antibiotic caused many particles within the cell to become filamentous; high concentrations (2,000 unit/ml) caused lysis of the particles without noticeably affecting the protozoan. The ED50 value (2 to 3 unit/ml) was within the range of values found to cause lysis of many gram-negative bacteria. Rapidly dividing lambda were more vulnerable to the action of the antibiotic than slowly dividing particles. Nondividing particles were not affected by exposure to the antibiotic. Ultrastructural changes observed in lambda during lysis by penicillin G were consistent with the view that penicillin interferes with the synthesis of a vital component of the cell envelope of the particle, possibly a peptidoglycan similar to that found in the cell walls of bacteria. The deoxyribonucleic acid of lambda was dispersed throughout the particle as electron dense fibers enclosed within electron transparent areas. The cell envelope appeared to consist of at least two morphologically distinguishable layers, an inner layer homologous to the plasma membrane of bacteria and an outer layer homologous to the bacterial cell wall. Lambda may be regarded as a randomly distributed population of bacteria growing and dividing synchronously within the collective cytoplasm of its protozoan host.
Malignant mesothelioma arising in the pouch of Douglas: Computed tomography appearance. A case report

An unusual case of a malignant peritoneal mesothelioma arising in the pouch of Douglas is presented. The tumor spread along the serosal surfaces of this space but invaded the bowel cephalad to it. A high degree of suspicion aids in considering this rare tumor in the differential diagnosis and early detection may lead to improved survival.
In-cell infection: bringing uninvited guests.

Cell-in-cell structures resulting from live cell engulfment were identified more than 100 years ago, but their physiological significance has remained largely obscure. Now Ni et al. identify a new role for cell-in-cell structure formation, called “in-cell infection” that spreads Epstein-Barr virus from infected B cells to epithelial cells, an activity that may predispose to cancer.
High-Frequency Force Information in Teleoperated Manipulation

This paper presents a preliminary investigation of techniques for sensing and display of high frequency force information in telemanipulation. For a human teleoperator, force variations above 50–100 Hz are unresolved vibrations, permitting the use of simple means for relaying this information from the remote slave manipulator. Vibrations convey important information about manipulation events such as contact and slip, and about object properties such as friction and surface texture. In this study, a sequence of experiments demonstrates that sensing of vibrations can be important in manipulation and that a vibratory display can convey this information in teleoperation. Using a tapping task, the experiments confirm that: (1) humans make use of vibrations; (2) a vibration display can convey appropriate high-frequency information; and (3) vibratory sensing and display can be used with a teleoperated hand system to improve task performance. Finally, to demonstrate the use of high frequency information in an inspection and maintenance task, subjects used a teleoperated hand system to identify a worn ball bearing set.
Steady state noise modeling in computer chips using neural networks

With continuing growth of computer technology, computer CPU chips are following the Moore's Law for decades, resulting in ever smaller geometry (currently at 65nm), and ever increasing complexity. One of the major issues in designing computer chips is to estimate the steady state noise between driving sources. Excessive noise level at a given node in a circuit can cause logic failures. The conventional method to obtain the steady state noise level is through table lookup where a large amount of lookup tables are generated. This method is simple but is tedious and requires a large amount of storage space. This paper proposes a new method of using neural networks to model the steady state noise level. The proposed method provides a simple and accurate method to determine steady state noise, and yet requires much less storage space.
Lifelike Pedagogical Agents for Mixed-initiative Problem Solving in Constructivist Learning Environments

Mixed-initiative problem solving lies at the heart of knowledge- based learning environments. While learners are actively engaged in problem-solving activities, learning environments should monitor their progress and provide them with feedback in a manner that contributes to achieving the twin goals of learning effectiveness and learning efficiency. Mixed-initiative interactions are particularly critical for constructivist learning environments in which learners participate in active problem solving. We have recently begun to see the emergence of believable agents with lifelike qualities. Featured prominently in constructivist learning environments, lifelike pedagogical agents could couple key feedback functionalities with a strong visual presence by observing learners‘ progress and providing them with visually contextualized advice during mixed-initiative problem solving. For the past three years, we have been engaged in a large-scale research program on lifelike pedagogical agents and their role in constructivist learning environments. In the resulting computational framework, lifelike pedagogical agents are specified by (1) a behavior space containing animated and vocal behaviors, (2) a design-centered context model that maintains constructivist problem representations, multimodal advisory contexts, and evolving problem-solving tasks, and (3) a behavior sequencing engine that in realtime dynamically selects and assembles agents‘ actions to create pedagogically effective, lifelike behaviors. To empirically investigate this framework, it has been instantiated in a full-scale implementation of a lifelike pedagogical agent for Design-A-Plant, a learning environment developed for the domain of botanical anatomy and physiology for middle school students. Experience with focus group studies conducted with middle school students interacting with the implemented agent suggests that lifelike pedagogical agents hold much promise for mixed-initiative learning.
Synchronized multi-point attack by autonomous reactive vehicles with simple local communication

We present a model consisting of a swarm of unmanned, autonomous flying munitions to conduct a synchronized multi-point attack on a target. The unpiloted air vehicles (UAV) lack global communication or extensive battlefield intelligence, instead, relying on passive short-range sensors and simple, inter-agent communication. The multi-point synchronized attack is successfully demonstrated in a simulated battlefield environment. The simulation results indicate that the reactive, synchronized, multi-point attack is effective, robust and scalable. It is especially well suited for numerous, small, inexpensive, and expendable UAV.
Fuel Effects on Gas Turbine Combustion—Ignition, Stability, and Combustion Efficiency

An analytical study is made of the substantial body of experimental data acquired during recent Wright-Patterson Aero Propulsion Laboratory sponsored programs on the effects of fuel properties on the performance and reliability of several gas turbine combustors, including J79-17A, J79-17C (Smokeless), F101, TF41, TF39, J85, TF33, and F100. Quantitative relationships are derived between certain key aspects of combustion, notably combustion efficiency, lean blowout limits and lean light-off limits, and the relevant fuel properties, combustor design features, and combustor operating conditions. It is concluded that combustion efficiency, lean blowout limits, and lean lightoff limits are only slightly dependent on fuel chemistry, but are strongly influenced by the physical fuel properties that govern atomization quality and spray evaporation rates.
Vapor Pressures and Enthalpies of Sublimation of Ten Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Determined via the Knudsen Effusion Method

The vapor pressures of ten polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, ranging in molecular weight from (152 to 252) g·mol−1, were measured using the Knudsen effusion technique in the temperature range of (297 to 432) K. These compounds included those for which there were few or conflicting data in the literature: acenaphthylene, acenaphthene, fluoranthene, benzo[a]phenanthrene, 9,10-benzophenanthrene, benzo[a]pyrene, and perylene. Anthracene, fluorene, and pyrene were also examined to establish the reliability of the presently implemented method. Enthalpies of sublimation of these compounds were determined via application of the Clausius−Clapeyron equation.
The ABCs of Case Teaching

This article builds on the work of scholars who have introduced case teaching to their classes, as well as on the work of scholars who have researched the effectiveness of various teaching methods. It uses lessons learned from collective experience and study to make case teaching accessible to faculty and students. Its purpose is to de-mystify the aura surrounding what case teaching is and who can do it. It does so by providing anecdotal and empirical evidence of case teaching effectiveness, and practical suggestions to the uninitiated for how to get started.
Boundary detection and color segmentation in skin tumor images

Boundary detection has been recognized as one of the difficult problems in image processing and pattern analysis, in particular in medical imaging applications. There is no unified approach to this problem which has been found to be application dependent. In this paper, we present a simple and yet effective method to find the borders of tumors as an initial step towards the diagnosis of skin tumors from their color images. The method makes use of an adaptive color metric from red, green, and blue (RGB) planes that contain information to discriminate the tumor from the background. Using this suitable coordinate transformation the image is segmented. The tumor portion is then extracted from the segmented image and borders are drawn. Experimental results which verify the effectiveness of our approach are given.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The relative importance of geography and ecology in species diversification: evidence from a tropical marine intertidal snail (Nerita)

Aim In this study, I examined the relative contributions of geography and ecology to species diversification within the genus Nerita, a prominent clade of marine snails that is widely distributed across the tropics and intertidal habitats. Specifically, I tested whether geographical patterns of speciation correspond primarily to allopatric or sympatric models, and whether habitat transitions have played a major role in species diversification. Location Indo-West Pacific, eastern Pacific, Atlantic, tropical marine intertidal. Methods I used a previously reconstructed molecular phylogeny of Nerita as a framework to assess the relative importance of geographical and ecological factors in species diversification. To evaluate whether recently diverged clades exhibit patterns consistent with allopatric or sympatric speciation, I mapped the geographical distribution of each species onto the species-level phylogeny, and examined the relationship between range overlap and time since divergence using age‐range correlation analyses. To determine the relative contribution of habitat transitions to divergence, I traced shifts in intertidal substrate affinity and vertical zonation across the phylogeny using parsimony, and implemented randomization tests to evaluate the resulting patterns of ecological change. Results Within the majority of Nerita clades examined, age‐range correlation analysis yielded a low intercept and a positive slope, similar to that expected under allopatric speciation. Approximately 75% of sister species pairs have maintained allopatric distributions; whereas more distantly related sister taxa often exhibited complete or nearly complete geographical overlap. In contrast, only 19% of sister species occupy distinct habitats. For both substrate and zonation, habitat transitions failed to concentrate towards either the tips or the root of the phylogeny. Instead, habitat shifts have occurred throughout the history of Nerita, with a general transition from the lower and mid-littoral towards the upper and supra-littoral zones, and multiple independent shifts from hard (rock) to softer substrates (mangrove, mud and sand). Main conclusions Both geography and ecology appear to have influenced diversification in Nerita, but to different extents. Geography seems to play a principal role, with allopatric speciation driving the majority of Nerita divergences. Habitat transitions appear insignificant in shaping the early and recent history of speciation, and promoting successive diversification in Nerita; however, shifts may have been important for respective divergences (i.e. those that correspond to the transitions) and enhancing diversity throughout the clade.
Comparison of a Smartphone App for Alcohol Use Disorders With an Internet-based Intervention Plus Bibliotherapy: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVE: To date, no research has evaluated the efficacy of a stand-alone, smartphone-based intervention for individuals with an alcohol use disorder. The current pilot study evaluated the short-term outcomes of a smartphone-based intervention for alcohol use disorders compared with an Internet-based brief motivational intervention plus bibliotherapy. METHOD: Adults (18 to 45 years old) with an alcohol use disorder received either the Location-Based Monitoring and Intervention for Alcohol Use Disorders (LBMI-A; n = 28), a smartphone-based intervention, or the online Drinker's Check-up plus bibliotherapy (DCU + bib; n = 26). These groups were compared using the Timeline Followback interview for percent days abstinent (PDA), percent heavy drinking days (PHDD), and drinks per week (DPW) from baseline to 6 weeks after the introduction of the interventions. RESULTS: Multilevel models revealed that the LBMI-A resulted in a significant increase in PDA over the course of the study, whereas the DCU + bib did not. Effect sizes for change from baseline for PDA suggest that the DCU + bib resulted in moderate a decrease, whereas the LBMI-A resulted in a large increase in PDA. Both interventions resulted in significant decreases in PHDD and DPW. The LBMI-A produced larger reductions in the first 3 to 4 weeks after the intervention was introduced than the DCU + bib. On weeks with greater LBMI-A usage, participants reported less DPW and PHDD. CONCLUSIONS: Both interventions resulted in significant decreases in alcohol use over the 6-week trial, which is promising for stand-alone technology-based intervention systems aimed at individuals with an alcohol use disorder. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved). Language: en
The miR-200 and miR-221/222 microRNA Families: Opposing Effects on Epithelial Identity

Carcinogenesis is a complex process during which cells undergo genetic and epigenetic alterations. These changes can lead tumor cells to acquire characteristics that enable movement from the primary site of origin when conditions become unfavorable. Such characteristics include gain of front-rear polarity, increased migration/invasion, and resistance to anoikis, which facilitate tumor survival during metastasis. An epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) constitutes one way that cancer cells can gain traits that promote tumor progression and metastasis. Two microRNA (miRNA) families, the miR-200 and miR-221 families, play crucial opposing roles that affect the differentiation state of breast cancers. These two families are differentially expressed between the luminal A subtype of breast cancer as compared to the less well-differentiated triple negative breast cancers (TNBCs) that exhibit markers indicative of an EMT. The miR-200 family promotes a well-differentiated epithelial phenotype, while high miR-221/222 results in a poorly differentiated, mesenchymal-like phenotype. This review focuses on the mechanisms (specific proven targets) by which these two miRNA families exert opposing effects on cellular plasticity during breast tumorigenesis and metastasis.
Chlorine fluxing for removal of magnesium from molten aluminum: Part II. Mathematical model

This second part of a two-part article presents a mathematical model for the “chlorine fluxing” of aluminum alloys, in particular, for the “demagging” of Al-Mg alloys such as those resulting from the recycling of used beverage cans. The model is based on the experimental results described in Part I and, in conformity with those results, assumes that neither the reaction kinetics at the melt-bubble interface, nor mass transfer on the gas side of that interface, are rate determining. With the introduction of one correction factor (applied to the surface renewal model for mass transfer on the melt side of the melt-gas interface), the model fitted the experimental data well, once measured values for the bubble size and rise velocity were introduced. The model was then used to predict the progress of demagging operations on an industrial scale. Computed results for these larger melts suggest that gross emissions of chlorine/chlorides are avoidable in bringing the magnesium content down to a critical value (which depends on operating characteristics such as bubble size). A multiple-step strategy is suggested when a batch of alloy is to be brought to yet-lower magnesium levels. In that strtegy, the chlorine content of the injected gas is reduced as the processing of the batch proceeds. The predicted effects of other operating changes (deeper nozzle submergence, broad bubble size distribution, etc.) are reported.
Dream time and real time

The relationship between real time and REM-dream time was explored by asking Ss to judge the length of time from an incorporation of an external stimulus (percutaneous shocks to the median nerve at the wrist) to their awakening as either 30 sec or 3 min. Ss’ ability to make this discrimination was taken as support of the notion that a relationship may exist between REM-dream time and real time.
Factors of stress among police officers

Three major areas of stress, Physical/Psychological Threat, Evaluation Systems, and Lack of Support were identified in police officers via factor analysis. These were related to bureau, age, years ...
Saturation of multistate atoms

Position-averaged excited-state fraction as a function of laser intensity is computed for several angular-momentum degenerate atomic transitions for the lin ‖ lin optical molasses and the magnetic molasses trap field with either fixed or random temporal phases. The results are summarized in a concise, accurate functional form with three fitted parameters.
Reliability and validity of the Smoking and Women Questionnaire among three ethnic groups.

Cigarette smoking among women continues to be a major health risk to the smoker and to those around her. Programs aimed at stopping and maintaining smoking cessation have had very limited success due in part to the failure to individualize smoking cessation programs based on specific characteristics of the smoker. This study presents reliability and validity of a 14-item questionnaire developed to determine the readiness of women from three ethnic groups (non-Hispanic white, black American, and Hispanic American) to stop smoking. The Smoking and Women Questionnaire (SWQ) consists of items representative of core elements conceptualized in the Smoking/Ex-smoking Model for Women. The core factors are: beliefs/attitudes toward smoking, sociability, stress, coping, self-efficacy, motivation, nicotine dependence, and support. The SWQ was completed by both smoking and nonsmoking non-Hispanic white (N = 233), smoking and nonsmoking black American (N = 70), and smoking and nonsmoking Hispanic American (N = 73) women. The test-retest correlation coefficient over a one- to three-week period (N = 53) was .84. Cronbach alphas for whites, blacks, Hispanics, and combined groups were .81, .85, .84 and .83, respectively. Content validity was shown by experts who agreed that the core elements were represented in the SWQ. Construct validity was shown for ethnic groups separately and combined in that smokers had significantly lower SWQ scores than nonsmokers. Items representative of the core elements were rated by smokers in a similar manner irrespective of ethnicity, suggesting similar attitudes and behaviors toward smoking. Further research is needed to determine if the SWQ can predict readiness of women to stop smoking and serve as a basis for developing individualized smoking cessation programs. Implications for smoking cessation programs are reviewed.
The chemical composition and antibacterial activity of the leaf essential oil of Neomirandea angularis (Asteraceae) from Monteverde, Costa Rica.

Abstract The leaf essential oils of Neomirandea angularis (Asteraceae), from Monteverde, Costa Rica, was isolated by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC-MS. A total of 15 compounds were identified in the leaf oil, dominated by the sesquiterpene hydrocarbons germacrene D (83.2 %) and β-selinene (10.5 %). The leaf oil showed marginal antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus, attributable to the major component, germacrene D.
Process-Variation Tolerant Channel-Adaptive Virtually Zero-Margin Low-Power Wireless Receiver Systems

This paper presents a process-variation tolerant, continuously channel-adaptive wireless front-end architecture and related adaptation algorithms to allow a radio-frequency transceiver to function with minimum power at all channel conditions and manufacturing process corner. Current wireless transceiver front-ends are designed for worst case channel conditions and a limited degree of post manufacture tuning is performed to compensate for process variations. It is shown how the proposed architecture can result in significant power savings over current practice without compromising system-level bit-error rate (while keeping the end-user experience unaffected). In contrast to traditional wireless circuits with limited tunability, such a zero-margin design is achieved by close loop adaptation of the wireless front-end circuits to ensure that they only consume the minimum power and deliver just enough performance (and not any more) for any channel condition. The adaptation methodology is applied to a WLAN receiver design and hardware measurement data for an adaptive receiver is presented showing a > 3 × power improvement under best case channel conditions.
Individual Marital Therapy: A Critical Reappraisal

The belief that individual marital therapy (IMT) is an ineffective form of treatment for marriage problems and markedly inferior to the conjoint approaches has become almost an article of faith in family therapy circles. This position was originally advanced in the influential reviews of the research literature conducted by Gurman and Kniskern, and their conclusions have been cited in numerous other articles. This paper re-reviews the research studies purportedly supporting this conclusion and finds almost all of them to be invalidated by gross flaws in design and implementation. It is argued that from the highly inadequate evidence available, no conclusions can be reached concerning either the absolute or relative effectiveness of IMT.
Old Values and New Institutions in a Lebanese Arab City

The city is nothing new in human experience. The classic civilizations, from the Babylonian to the Roman, are largely known by their cities. Yet it was not until the nineteenth century that social scientists developed any systematic urban concepts. This happened at the same time that the cities of Europe and North America were changing in two very important ways. One of these was the establishment of industrial technology as the primary category of urban occupations. The other was extremely rapid city growth, involving serious problems of adaptation and adjustment, and resulting in more cities of greater size than had ever before existed.
Studies on translocation IX. The pattern of action of antibiotic translocation inhibitors in eukaryotic and prokaryotic systems.

Abstract Ribosomes and translocation factors derived from E. coli and yeast mitochondria (prokaryotic in type) are interchangeable in the formation of the ribosome-translocation factor-GDP complex as are the ribosomes and translocation factors derived from yeast cytoplasm and rabbit reticulocytes (eukaryotic in type). None of the ribosomes or factors, however, are interchangeable in complex formation between the prokaryotic and eukaryotic classes. The translocation inhibitor, fusidic acid, inhibits protein synthesis and GTP hydrolysis and serves to stabilize the ribosome-translocation factor-GDP complex formed with either prokaryotic or eukaryotic components. On the other hand, the translocation inhibitors, thiostrepton and siomycin, inhibit protein synthesis, GTP hydrolysis, and complex formation only with the prokaryotic-type components. These latter two antibiotics are without effect on eukaryotic-type ribosomes.
Analysis of Sequence Data Under Multivariate Trait-Dependent Sampling

High-throughput DNA sequencing allows for the genotyping of common and rare variants for genetic association studies. At the present time and for the foreseeable future, it is not economically feasible to sequence all individuals in a large cohort. A cost-effective strategy is to sequence those individuals with extreme values of a quantitative trait. We consider the design under which the sampling depends on multiple quantitative traits. Under such trait-dependent sampling, standard linear regression analysis can result in bias of parameter estimation, inflation of Type I error, and loss of power. We construct a likelihood function that properly reflects the sampling mechanism and uses all available data. We implement a computationally efficient EM algorithm and establish the theoretical properties of the resulting maximum likelihood estimators. Our methods can be used to perform separate inference on each trait or simultaneous inference on multiple traits. We pay special attention to gene-level associati...
Implementation of multiuser MUMPS language database systems on microcomputers

This paper outlines the problems involved in implementing multiuser MUMPS language database systems on microcomputers and discusses practical solutions. Examples of the techniques presented are derived from experience with a large database system, PTIN/PTQ/MEDAR, running on an IBM AT with up to 10 separate users.
SMG6 Cleavage Generates Metastable Decay Intermediates from Nonsense-Containing β-Globin mRNA

mRNAs targeted by endonuclease decay generally disappear without detectable decay intermediates. The exception to this is nonsense-containing human β-globin mRNA, where the destabilization of full-length mRNA is accompanied by the cytoplasmic accumulation of 5′-truncated transcripts in erythroid cells of transgenic mice and in transfected erythroid cell lines. The relationship of the shortened RNAs to the decay process was characterized using an inducible erythroid cell system and an assay for quantifying full-length mRNA and a truncated RNA missing 169 nucleotides from the 5′ end. In cells knocked down for Upf1 a reciprocal increase in full-length and decrease in shortened RNA confirmed the role of NMD in this process. Kinetic analysis demonstrated that the 5′-truncated RNAs are metastable intermediates generated during the decay process. SMG6 previously was identified as an endonuclease involved in NMD. Consistent with involvement of SMG6 in the decay process full-length nonsense-containing β-globin mRNA was increased and the Δ169 decay intermediate was decreased in cells knocked down for SMG6. This was reversed by complementation with siRNA-resistant SMG6, but not by SMG6 with inactivating PIN domain mutations. Importantly, none of these altered the phosphorylation state of Upf1. These data provide the first proof for accumulation of stable NMD products by SMG6 endonuclease cleavage.
The effect of chloride salts onYersinia enterocoliticain meat

Abstract The populations of Yersinia enterocolitica (serotypes 0:3 and 0:8) exposed to NaCl, KCl and CaCl 2 in meat, decreased as the concentration of each salt increased. Calcium chloride was significantly ( α =0.05) more effective against serotype 0:8. Sodium nitrite was synergistic to the anti-yersinial effect of NaCl. Mathematical equations were developed for the prediction of the population of Y. enterocolitica in meat, exposed to the chloride salts. In addition, these equations can also be used to determine the concentration of a chloride salt required for attaining a predetermined level of the pathogen. The Anti-yersinial Index (AI) demonstrated that CaCl 2 was most efficient against serotype 0:3 while the higher concentrations of KCl (1.8 and 2.2% w/w Cl) were most efficient against serotype 0:8.
Melatonin counteracts lipid peroxidation induced by carbon tetrachloride but does not restore glucose-6 phosphatase activity.

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) exerts its toxic effects by the generation of free radicals. In this study we investigated whether melatonin, a potent free radical scavenger, could prevent the deleterious effects of CCl4. Liver homogenates and liver microsomes were incubated with CCl4 in the presence of melatonin and lipid peroxidation and glucose-6 phosphatase (G6Pase) activity were determined. All doses of CCl4 (1, 0.5, 0.1 mM) produced significantly high levels of lipid peroxidation, as reflected by increased levels of malonaldehyde and 4-hydroxyalkenals, in both liver homogenates and liver microsomes. These doses of CCl4 concommitantly reduced the activity of microsomal G6Pase. Co-incubation with melatonin dose-dependently (2, 1, 0.5 mM) inhibited the production of lipid peroxidation, but it was unable to restore the activity of G6Pase. In in vivo studies, rats were also treated with melatonin (10 mg/kg, i.p.), given 30 min before and 60 min after the administration of CCl4 (5 ml/kg, i.p.). Significantly elevated levels of lipid peroxidation were measured in the liver and kidney. Melatonin prevented the CCl4-induced lipid peroxidation in the kidney, but not in the liver. These data suggest that melatonin may provide protection against some of the damaging effects of CCl4, possibly due to its ability to scavenge toxic free radicals.
Toponimia chilena: "la lejana posesión"

La toponimia de la Isla de Pascua esta casi totalmente dominada por vocablos pascuenses. Este predominio ha aumentado a pesar de las expediciones holandesas, espanolas e inglesas durante el siglo XVIII, las misiones religiosas francesas, las asonadas esclavistas desde Peru y la toma de posesion y administracion chilenas durante el siglo siguiente. Estas visitas, muy especialmente la de la expedicion espanola de 1770, deberian haber extinguido los toponimos rapa nui, como ha sucedido con otras lenguas autoctonas en Chile. Muy por el contrario, muchos nombres pascuenses ya se habian establecido a mediados del siglo XIX y con la administracion chilena se ha producido un aumento en la toponimia vernacula, hasta el punto de que ella es dominante en la actualidad. La supervivencia del rapa nui como lengua viva es solamente uno de los factores que explican este predominio.
Cloning and characterization of a ribosomal RNA gene from Plasmodium berghei

Abstract The ribosomal RNA (rRNA) of Plasmodium berghei strain NYU2 was characterized with respect to size and used to identify molecular clones of ribosomal RNA genes (rDNA) from this organism. The intact large rRNA species (Mr 1.40 × 106) is intermediate in size between prokaryotic and eukaryotic large rRNAs. It is specifically cleaved in vivo near the 5′-end yielding one large component (Mr 1.10 × 106) and one small component (Mr 0.30 × 106). The small rRNA species (Mr 0.75 × 106) is larger than in higher eukaryotic organisms, but is similar in size to some other protozoa. Using 5′-end labeled rRNA as a probe, clones of rDNA were selected from genomic DNA libraries prepared in lambda phage Charon 4A and plasmid pBR322. The clones prepared in lambda were prone to recombination. The 14.7 kilobase(kb) insert in phage λ PbR27 contains the complete coding sequences for both the small and larger rRNA species. A complete set of small plasmid clones were isolated which hybridize to the different segments of the rRNA transcription unit. A restriction map of the genes cloned in λ PbR27 with the approximate position of the coding region is presented. The polarity of transcription of the rDNA was determined by hybridizing 3′-OH end labeled rRNA to Southern blots of genomic and cloned rDNA. The results indicate that a transcription unit of P. berghei rDNA is arranged as in other organisms with the small rRNA at the 5′ end and the large rRNA at the 3′ end.
Norm Block Sample Sizes: A Review of 17 Individually Administered Intelligence Tests.

The representativeness, recency, and size of norm samples strongly influence the accuracy of inferences drawn from their scores. Inadequate norm samples may lead to inflated or deflated scores for individuals and poorer prediction of developmental and academic outcomes. The purpose of this study was to apply Kranzler and Floyd’s method for estimating norm block sample sizes via a review of the most prominent, individually administered intelligence tests. A rigorous, double-coding process was used to obtain these estimated sample sizes for 17 intelligence tests (10 full-length multidimensional tests, 4 nonverbal intelligence tests, and 3 brief intelligence tests). Overall, 47% of the tests failed to meet the minimum standard of at least 30 participants per norm block across age groups, and estimated norm block sizes were smallest for elementary school–age children. These results can inform intelligence test selection by practitioners and researchers, and they should be considered by test publishers when de...