cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy Study of Conductive Filament Formation in Copper Oxides

The structural and electrical property changes of two types of copper oxides (CuO and Cu2O) under voltage bias are studied with in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The phases of different materials are confirmed with electron diffraction. In both types of oxides, dynamic conductive path formation and dissolution are observed. The decrease in resistance of CuO film is found to be accompanied with the formation of Cu4O3 phase where the electric field strength is highest. We also find that the decrease in resistivity of Cu2O film is more extensive and occurs in an area depending on the level of current compliance. The physical mechanisms responsible for the observations and their implications for the formation of conducting regions in copper oxide-based memristors are discussed.
Interpretable Multi-Head Self-Attention model for Sarcasm Detection in social media

Sarcasm is a linguistic expression often used to communicate the opposite of what is said, usually something that is very unpleasant with an intention to insult or ridicule. Inherent ambiguity in sarcastic expressions, make sarcasm detection very difficult. In this work, we focus on detecting sarcasm in textual conversations from various social networking platforms and online media. To this end, we develop an interpretable deep learning model using multi-head self-attention and gated recurrent units. Multi-head self-attention module aids in identifying crucial sarcastic cue-words from the input, and the recurrent units learn long-range dependencies between these cue-words to better classify the input text. We show the effectiveness of our approach by achieving state-of-the-art results on multiple datasets from social networking platforms and online media. Models trained using our proposed approach are easily interpretable and enable identifying sarcastic cues in the input text which contribute to the final classification score. We visualize the learned attention weights on few sample input texts to showcase the effectiveness and interpretability of our model.
Hidden phenotypes of PINK1/Parkin knockout mice

PINK1, a serine/threonine ubiquitin kinase, and Parkin, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, work in coordination to target damaged mitochondria to the lysosome in a process called mitophagy. This review will cover what we have learned from PINK1 and Parkin knockout (KO) mice. Systemic PINK1 and Parkin KO mouse models haven't faithfully recapitulated early onset forms of Parkinson's disease found in humans with recessive mutations in these genes. However, the utilization of these mouse models has given us insight into how PINK1 and Parkin contribute to mitochondrial quality control and function in different tissues beyond the brain such as in heart and adipose tissue. Although PINK1 and Parkin KO mice have been generated over a decade ago, these models are still being used today to creatively elucidate cell-type specific functions. Recently, these mouse models have uncovered that these proteins contribute to innate immunity and cancer phenotypes.
Abstract P305: Post-Stroke Aphasia as a Predictor of 30-Day Readmission Associated With Infection: A Retrospective Chart Review

Introduction: Studies have demonstrated that aphasia may negatively impact morbidity and mortality among ischemic stroke (IS) patients. However, the association between post-stroke aphasia and read...
The gold-stock market relationship during COVID-19

Abstract The belief that investors shift to gold during times of economic stress, resulting in a negative correlation between gold returns and stock returns, is not supported in both the 2007–09 financial crisis and during COVID-19. However, the gold-stock market relationship is positive in periods of negative real rates of return. The evidence points to gold as a safe haven in times of stock market volatility and negative interest rates.
The External Social Benefits of Higher Education: Introduction to this Special Issue

This is a brief summary of the conceptual framework and prior empirical findings about the external social benefits of higher education. It is followed by a brief summary of the 8 new papers in this Special Issue of the Journal of Education Finance edited by McMahon and Delaney and their relation to the theme of the Special Issue.
Using a Formal Theory of Logic Metaphorically

At the end of the last chapter I invoked the idea that a formal system of logic, such as LP, is used metaphorically by the pluralist. It is essential to the pluralist position, and possibly to many other positions, that we should be able to make sense of this, and say something quite definite about it. Otherwise, our claims about appealing to formal systems of logic are empty. I look at three ways in which the pluralist makes use of a formal logical system. The first is in direct appeal to a rule or axiom to justify a move in an argument. The second is when the pluralist uses a formal theory in order to reconstruct another theory. This is done to understand the theory from another perspective. The third use is dialectical. In invoking or developing a formal theory to represent a form of reasoning, we bring some features of that reasoning into relief, and we obscure other features. We can evaluate the fit between the formal theory and the informal one. In the evaluation, we might well consider alternative formal representations. Thus, we enter a dialectic. Lastly, in order to remind us that pluralists are not the only ones who use formal logic informally, I look at how it is that mathematicians use formal logical theories.
Paths to Polarization in East Asia

Paths to Development in Asia: South Korea, Vietnam, China and Indonesia. By Tuong Vu. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2010. 294 pp., $85.00 hardcover (ISBN-13: 978-0-521-76180-2). Paths to Development in Asia: South Korea, Vietnam, China and Indonesia is an ambitious title, and this new book by Tuong Vu does not disappoint when it comes to offering bold theories of development politics in the region. Unfortunately, the author's penchant for grand theorizing is not always supported by careful argumentation and a balanced assessment of the evidence. In the author's own words, “[t]he aim of the book is to show how state formation politics was responsible for the emergence of developmental states in some Asian contexts” (p. 2). Based on an analysis of the Republic of Korea, Vietnam, China and Indonesia, Vu argues that the capacity of emerging states to build cohesive governing structures is determined by intra-elite and elite-mass interactions at the time of state formation. Elite polarization and “elite unity” are conducive to the creation of cohesive states, while elite compromise and fragmentation are not. Similarly, “controlled mobilization” or suppression of mass demands produces state cohesion and accommodation does not. The idea that specific patterns of state formation give rise to state structures that are linked to future state capacities is not new. Huntington's Political Order in Changing Societies (1968) warns of the dangers of accommodating social pressure from below, while David Waldner's State Building and Late Development (1999) shows that elite conflict can also block the development of modernizing state institutions. In East …
Search for top in D-Zero using the electron + jets channel with soft muon tagging

We present preliminary results for the search for the top quark in D-Zero in the electron + jets channel where one of the b quark jets is tagged by means of a soft muon, using 13.5 pb-1 of data. Standard model decay modes for the top quark are assumed. We present the resulting top cross section and error as a function of top mass using this channel combined with the dilepton channel and the untagged lepton + jets channel . At present, no significant signal for top quark production can be established.
Catalysis during methanol gasification in supercritical water

Abstract We report on the effect of nickel metal on the gasification of methanol in supercritical water at 500 and 550 °C. The reactions were conducted in sealed quartz tubes, which allowed the homogeneous and heterogeneous rates to be quantified separately for the first time. In the absence of nickel, conversions up to 20% were reached after 2 h. The pseudo-first-order rate constant for homogeneous gasification is 4.0 ± 2.7 × 10 −5 s −1 at 550 °C. In the presence of a Ni wire that ran the entire length of the reactor, conversions of up to 90% were reached in less than 5 min. The pseudo-first-order rate constants for Ni-catalyzed gasification are 0.0032 ± 0.0013 and 0.0040 ± 0.0012 cm/s at 500 and 550 °C. These results show that homogeneous, uncatalyzed gasification in supercritical water is slow, but rates are greatly increased by added Ni. Hydrogen, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide were the major products detected. Hydrogen was always the most abundant. With multiple uses, the Ni wire showed deactivation as a catalyst for methanol gasification.
Proton energy and angular distributions from (n, p) and (n, np) reactions

Abstract The proton energy and angular distributions from (n, p) and (n, np) reactions on 27Al, 32S, 59Co and 58Ni have been measured for 14.1 MeV neutrons. The proton detection threshold was approximately 2 MeV and the reaction angles from 0° to 120° were used in 20° increments. Thin isotopically pure targets and particle discrimination were used. The level-density parameters, nuclear temperatures and total (n, p) and (n, np) cross sections are reported. Direct contributions are estimated.
A scalable architecture for intrusion-detection systems based on a broadband network of embedded set-top boxes

As the processing power of set-top box (STB) devices continues to grow with each new product generation and multiple service operators directly manage millions of these devices through a dedicated broadband network, we propose to harness this massive aggregate computational power to execute large-scale parallel applications. We present a prototype implementation of a heterogeneous distributed embedded system that combines a complete head-end cable system with a DOCSIS broadband network of STBs and an interoperable embedded implementation of Open MPI running on the STB operating system. We demonstrate the operations and performance of this system by reporting the experimental results that we obtained for the execution of various instances of Multiple Sequence Alignment, a parallel bioinformatics application. Based on these results we propose a new distributed embedded system architecture for highly-scalable intrusion-detection systems.
The effects of lesions in the frontal or posterior association cortex of rats on maze III

The present work (a) examined an earlier suggestion that Lashley’s law of equipotentiality received questionable support from the principal data used in its formulation and (b) compared the effects of lesions in the areas believed to represent frontal (MF) and parietal association cortex in the rat. Another frontal area (FP), often said to be an association area, was lesioned, and sham-operated controls were included. Only the MF and parietal lesions led to postoperative retention deficits. It was suggested that Lashley’s law of equipotentiality, even in the limited context that he presented it, should no longer be reported uncritically. Further discussion considered the involvement of MF and parietal neocortex in spatially related behaviors and the need to focus on MF rather than FP cortex as the frontal association area.
Reduced sustained brain activity during processing of positive emotional stimuli in major depression.

Background This study examines the directionality and temporal specificity of brain activity during sustained processing of emotional stimuli in individuals with current major depressive disorder (MDD) and nondepressed control participants. Methods Slow wave (SW) components of the event-related brain potential (ERP) were recorded from 16 control participants and 15 participants with MDD during a working memory task. During the task, individuals were shown a positive, neutral, or negative word and were asked to maintain it in memory for 5 sec. Participants then saw a letter and had to decide whether it was a part of the previously presented word. The ERP components were measured from nine scalp sites (F3, Fz, F4, C3, Cz, C4, P3, Pz, P4) during the encoding of emotional words. Results Compared with control individuals, MDD participants exhibited decreased brain responses to positive relative to negative or neutral stimuli. This decrease in brain activity during processing of positive information was evident across all sites and SW components. Conclusions Our findings suggest that cognitive deficits in MDD may stem from diminished brain responses during processing of positive information and may not be associated with an augmented response to negative stimuli.
Correlation of XANES features with the scintillation efficiencies of Ce doped alkaline earth lithium silicate glasses

Cerium-activated, lithium-silicate glasses are widely used as thermal neutron detectors because of their versatility, robustness and low cost. The glasses convert the energy of the neutrons to visible light pulses that may be counted. This process, scintillation, is generally thought to be composed of three steps: ionization, energy transfer, and luminescence. If defects are present, they can trap the excitations, altering the scintillation output. These features have been discussed previously. The presence of magnesium in these glasses increases scintillation efficiency, but as previously observed the effect drops by a factor greater than 2.5 with substitution through the series of alkaline earths. Here, cerium activated glasses of composition 20Li{sub 2}O{center_dot}15MO{center_dot}64.4SiO{sub 2}{center_dot}0.6Ce{sub 3}O{sub 3} (where m is Mg, Ca, Sr, or Ba) exhibit scintillation efficiencies that vary by more than a factor of 2.5 with the alkaline earth. Previous work has suggested a correlation between the microstructure of these glasses and scintillation efficiency. Measurements of the Ce L{sub III} x-ray absorption edge in the Mg, Ca and Sr glasses display a feature near the absorption edge that is suggestive of the presence of Ce{sup 4+}. The area of this peak is, in fact, correlated with the scintillation efficiency of the glass. Themore » amount of Ce{sup 4+} indicated by the intensity of this feature is, however, too high to be a permanent population. The authors suspect that the feature is a transient phenomenon related to creation of Ce{sup 4+} and trapped electrons due to photoionization by the x-ray beam.« less
Digestion of Added Homologous Algae by Chlorella‐Bearing Paramecium bursaria

SYNOPSIS. Endosymbiotic algae from Paramecium bursaria when added to the culture medium are ingested by Chlorella-bearing P. bursaria at a rate of 2,000 algae/organism/day. That the ingested algae are digested and assimilated by the ciliates is suggested by the more rapid growth of Paramecium when algae are added to the medium (G= 40 hr with algae compared to 190 hr without). The digestion by the ciliates of exogenous algae contrasts with the survival of these algae under normal growth conditions. It is suggested that the protection of the endogenous algae is related to their location in peripheral perialgal vacuoles.
Advanced simulation technology and its application in memory design and verification

The simulation of memory circuits has been a challenge for analog simulators due to the requirement of handling high capacity and providing SPICE-like accuracy at the same time. New hierarchical isomorphic simulation technology was developed enabling the accurate simulation of nearly unlimited memory designs without performance penalty. The main technology concept is the compression of memory and computation for isomorphic subcircuits, which eliminates the need for cutting down designs to fit them into conventional simulation tools. With the arrival of nanometer technology the analysis of parasitic effects has become critical in verifying design functionality, timings, and power. This requires simulation tools not only to handle very large memories but also to analyze the effect of hundreds of million of parasitic elements. Several postlayout simulation flows are discussed and state-of-the-art RC reduction technology is introduced.
Pulmonary Hemorrhage: An Uncommon Cause of Pulmonary Infiltrates in Patients With AIDS

We describe two patients with AIDS who developed new diffuse pulmonary infiltrates during the course of their hospitalization. In both cases, the infiltrates were attributed to pulmonary hemorrhage complicating an existing condition rather than represeting a new pulmonary process. Identification of pulmonary hemorrhage in these patients allowed for discontinuation of treatment with empiric medications and continued appropriate supportive care.
Revisiting Dynamic Social Impact Theory: Extensions and Applications for Political Science

Traditional social science research tends to regard political attitudes as the product of individuals’ internal processes. This approach ignores the existence of external influences on individual attitudes, particularly that of social communication. We argue that political attitudes are neither confined to the individual, nor are they wholly social constructions. This study examines how political information is structured and communicated through a social medium. We employ multi-agent simulation to replicate and extend a previous simulation of attitude formation based on Latane’s (American Psychologist 36:343–356, 1981) theory of social impact. Specifically, our extension of the previous model incorporates motivated reasoning processes, attitude persuasiveness, and agent uncertainty in order to more accurately capture the pervasiveness of social communication. These changes allow us to model effects not previously possible, such as attitude polarization and information cascades. Results from this study show that realistic structures in the distributions of attitudes can be recreated using prevailing aggregate- and individual-level models of attitude formation. By formally modeling the dynamics of social impact, researchers gain insight into social influences on individuals’ attitudes and the consequences for public opinion.
MEKK2 Associates with the Adapter Protein Lad/RIBP and Regulates the MEK5-BMK1/ERK5 Pathway *

MEKK2 and MEKK3 are two closely related mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase kinases. The kinase domains of MEKK2 and MEKK3 are nearly identical, although their N-terminal regulatory domains are significantly divergent. By yeast two-hybrid library screening, we have identified MEK5, the MAPK kinase in the big mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 (BMK1)/ERK5 pathway, as a binding partner for MEKK2. MEKK2 expression stimulates BMK1/ERK5 activity, the downstream substrate for MEK5. Compared with MEKK3, MEKK2 activated BMK1/ERK5 to a greater extent, which might correlate with a higher affinity MEKK2-MEK5 interaction. A dominant negative form of MEK5 blocked the activation of BMK1/ERK5 by MEKK2, whereas activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) was unaffected, showing that MEK5 is a specific downstream effector of MEKK2 in the BMK1/ERK5 pathway. Activation of BMK1/ERK5 by epidermal growth factor and H2O2 in Cos7 and HEK293 cells was completely blocked by a kinase-inactive MEKK3 (MEKK3kin−), whereas MEKK2kin− had no effect. However, in D10 T cells, expression of MEKK2kin− but not MEKK3kin− inhibited BMK1/ERK5 activity. Two-hybrid screening also identified Lck-associated adapter/Rlk- and Itk-binding protein (Lad/RIBP), a T cell adapter protein, as a binding partner for MEKK2. MEKK2 and Lad/RIBP colocalize at the T cell contact site with antigen-loaded presenting cells, demonstrating cotranslocation of MEKK2 and Lad/RIBP during T cell activation. MEKK3 neither binds Lad/RIBP nor is recruited to the T cell contact with antigen presenting cell. MEKK2 and MEKK3 are differentially associated with signaling from specific upstream receptor systems, whereas both activate the MEK5-BMK1/ERK5 pathway.
Intima morphology, bacterial morphotypes, and effects of annual molt on microflora in the hindgut of the desert millipede, Orthoporus ornatus (Girard) (Diplopoda: spirostreptidae)

Abstract Scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to study the cuticular intima and microbial flora of the hindgut in a desert millipede, Orthoporus ornatus (Girard) (Diplopoda : Spirostreptidae). Outstanding intima features include posteriorly directed spikes in the pylorus, extensive folds and ridges in the ileum that begin to flatten in the colon, and a relatively smooth surface in the rectum. Enormous numbers of cylindrical protuberances with central depressions cover much of the ileum—colon surface and elongate bacteria sometimes attach to the depressions. The question of nutrient absorption by these and similar structures in other arthropod detritivores is considered. At least 3 bacterial morphotypes, as well as fungal mycelia, thelastomatid nematodes, and ingested material are found in the hindgut. At annual molt, the lumen bacteria virtually disappear; presumably they are replaced from anterior gut regions, ingested exuvium, and ingested soil.
Molecular cloning and characterization of the immunologically protective surface glycoprotein GP46/M-2 of Leishmania amazonensis.

Abstract Immunization of mice with the GP46/M-2 membrane glycoprotein has been demonstrated to elicit protection against infection with the parasitic protozoan Leishmania amazonensis. As this molecule is important for future vaccine studies of leishmaniasis, the gene encoding the GP46/M-2 surface membrane glycoprotein of Leishmania amazonensis has been cloned and sequenced. The protein sequence derived from the DNA sequence data is consistent with the known biochemical and immunochemical properties of the protein and indicates a number of structural areas of interest. A repetitive sequence (24 amino acids repeated four times) occurs within the amino-terminal portion of the molecule and constitutes approximately 22% of the total mature protein. The protease-resistant immunodominant carboxyl-terminal domain of the protein comprises approximately half of the molecule and consists of proline-rich and cysteine-rich areas of sequence; the distribution of cysteine residues is suggestive of metal binding motifs. The sequence predicts a hydrophobic leader peptide, and a putative attachment site for a glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol anchor is indicated at the carboxyl terminus, consistent with the membrane location of the protein. Southern blot analyses also indicate the presence of a GP46/M-2 gene family.
Activation of a Membrane-Associated Androgen Receptor Promotes Cell Death in Primary Cortical Astrocytes

In the central nervous system, androgens can exert either protective or damage-promoting effects. For example, testosterone protects neurons against beta-amyloid toxicity, whereas in other studies, testosterone exacerbated stroke-induced lesion size. The mechanism underlying this duality of androgens is still unclear. Recently, our laboratory reported that androgens elicit opposite effects on the ERK/MAPK and Akt signaling pathways, depending on whether a membrane androgen receptor (AR) or intracellular AR was activated. By extension, we hypothesized that androgens may affect cell viability differently depending on which receptor is activated. Here, we found that dihydrotestosterone (DHT) protected primary cortical astrocytes from the metabolic and oxidative insult associated with iodoacetic acid-induced toxicity, whereas DHT-BSA, a cell impermeable analog of DHT that preferentially targets the membrane AR, suppressed Akt signaling, increased caspase 3/7 activity, and enhanced iodoacetic acid-induced cell death. Interestingly, DHT-BSA also blocked the protective effects of DHT and estradiol. Collectively, these data support the existence of two, potentially competing, pathways for androgens in a given cell or tissue that may provide insight into the controversy of whether androgen therapy is beneficial or detrimental.
Economic implications of treating effluents from catfish production

Abstract An economic analysis of catfish production was conducted with and without treatment technologies for effluents. A linear programming model was developed to determine the profit-maximizing effluent management strategies for varying levels of allowable effluent discharge for catfish in the event that regulations would enforce either fixed levels or taxes on effluent discharges. Economic implications for varying policy alternatives are discussed. Catfish production costs would be increased by $0.00 to $0.11 per kg if mandatory effluent control measures were to be enforced. While the use of water for crop irrigation was shown to be the least expensive alternative to treat effluents, the model suggested that the technique used for effluent removal depends upon the type of regulation implemented and the effect of treatment technologies in catfish production. However, all policies analyzed reduced net farm revenues due to either treatment cost or to changes in optimal farm size or stocking rates that resulted in lower net farm revenues. This study also showed that imposing control options will create additional barriers to entry for new potential catfish farmers, particularly small-scale (less than 130 hectares) farms.
Genetic codes as evolutionary filters: subtle differences in the structure of genetic codes result in significant differences in patterns of nucleotide substitution

The codon-degeneracy model (CDM) predicts that patterns of nucleotide substitution in protein-coding genes are largely determined by the relative frequencies of four-fold (4f), two-fold, and non-degenerate sites, the attributes of which are determined by the structure of the governing genetic code. The CDM thus further predicts that genetic codes with alternative structures will "filter" molecular evolution differentially. A method, therefore, is presented by which the CDM may be applied to the unique structure of any genetic code. The mathematical relationship between the proportion of transitions at 4f degenerate nucleotide sites and the transition-to-transversion ratio is described. Predictions for five individual genetic codes, relative to the relationship between code structure and expected patterns of nucleotide substitution, are clearly defined. To test this "filter" hypothesis of genetic codes, simulated DNA sequence data sets were generated with a variety of input parameter values to estimate the relationship between patterns of nucleotide substitution and best-fit estimates of transition bias at 4f degenerate sites for both the universal genetic code and the vertebrate mitochondrial genetic code. These analyses confirm the prediction of the CDM that, all else being equal, even small differences in the structure of alternative genetic codes may result in significant shifts in the overall pattern of nucleotide substitution.
Sample preparation and high-resolution separation of mycotoxins possessing carboxyl groups

The chromatographic analysis of carboxyl-containing mycotoxins, such as fumonisin B1, ochratoxin A, and citrinin, presents a continual challenge. Toxins must first be extracted from foods or tissues and then cleaned up before chromatographic separation and detection. Liquid-liquid extraction efficiencies for some carboxylic mycotoxins are marginal for spiked samples and uncertain for incurred residues. Immunoaffinity columns may be useful for concentrating mycotoxins from samples before chromatography. In almost every case, more than one analytical method must be used to confirm the identification of the mycotoxin. The fumonisins are especially troublesome to analyze because they are relatively insoluble in organic solvents, they are not separated easily by gas chromatography, and they do not respond to the usual absorbance or fluorescence detectors used in liquid chromatography. Fluorescence derivatization and electrospray liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry have now made it possible to detect trace levels of mycotoxins. The purity of mycotoxin standards for toxicological studies can be determined by liquid chromatography with either an evaporative light scattering detector or electrospray mass spectrometer. New developments in capillary electrophoresis, nonporous microsphere liquid chromatography, and detection methods for low-volatility compounds show promise for improving the analysis of mycotoxins in the future.
Kinetic characterization of Methanobacterium bryantii M.o.H.

H2 is a key electron donor for many anaerobic microorganisms; thus, keen competition for H2 occurs among H2-utilizing microbial groups. Monod kinetic parameters provide essential information for kinetic analysis of competition for H2. In this study, we estimated Monod kinetic parameter values for a methanogen that consumes only H2 as its electron donor, Methanobacterium bryantii M.o.H. Utilization of a single electron donor is an advantage in this study, because complications from alternate metabolic pathways are avoided. Using a set of batch experiments designed to provide the best estimates of each parameter, we obtained these values: maximum specific growth rate (μmax) = 0.77/day, maximum substrate consumption rate (qmax) = 2.36 mol-H2/gcells/day, true yield (Y) = 0.325 gcell/mol H2, fraction of donor electrons to synthesis (fs°) = 0.03 e-cell/e-donor, half-maximum-rate substrate concentration (Ks) = 18 000 nM = 18 μM H2, and endogenous decay rate (b) = 0.088/day. This self-consistent set of parameter...
Model reference and optimal design of digital drives for computerized numerical control machine tools

Computerized numerical control of machine tool drives is of increasing interest because of the capabilities of readily available microcomputers and VLSI circuitry. One particular problem area of interest is the development of biaxial control systems that generate predetermined paths in the presence of load disturbances and uncertainties. Results with a representative lathe motor simulation with circular trajectories, show that digital model reference and optimal control concepts are very effective procedures taking into account path errors and the presence of disturbances and uncertainties.
An onset to onset rule for binocular integration in the Mach-Dvorak illusion.

Abstract Parameters of binocular integration were investigated using the Mach-Dvorak illusion in which a moving object appears displaced in depth when alternately glimpsed by the two eyes. Observers estimated this displacement under varying exposure durations and interocular delays. The results revealed (1) increasing onset to onset time increased the magnitude of the illusion, (2) exposure and delay influenced the illusion only insofar as they influenced onset to onset time, (3) the size of the illusion could be predicted using an onset to onset model and (4) the onset to onset relation faltered at intervals greater than 60 or 70 msec. It was concluded that the onsets of two dichoptic, temporally disparate inputs can be functionally aligned for binocular integration.
Imagery in paired- associate learning in 5-year-old children

Characteristics of stimulus materials which affect the degree to which visual or verbal processes facilitate learning in a paired-associate task were investigated. Forty-five kindergartners were presented with four lists of five paired associates each in a one-trial study-test procedure. Materials were presented visually using color slides or black outline drawings and verbally as sentences. Recognition was tested with color slides, line drawings, and words. Presentation of colored slides resulted in performance superior to the presentation of line drawings or words, while response mode did not have a significant effect. Several current hypotheses on imagery for these results were discussed.
Look Here! The Development of Attentional Orienting to Symbolic Cues.

Although much research has examined the development of orienting to social directional cues (e.g., eye gaze), little is known about the development of orienting to nonsocial directional cues, such as arrows. Arrow cues have been used in numerous studies as a means to study attentional orienting, but the development of children's understanding of such cues has not previously been examined. It remains unclear to what extent the social nature of a cue is important for directing attention; further, it is unknown whether symbolic understanding is necessary for young children to be cued by symbols such as arrows. The present investigation explored when and how arrows cue children's attention. Our results suggest that children younger than 5 years of age orient their attention using the perceptual properties of arrows, and it is not until sometime after 5 years of age that children use the conceptual meaning of arrows to orient their attention. Understanding of the directional meaning of arrows may develop throu...
Genotypic variation and outcomes in kidney transplantation: donor and recipient effects

The genetic composition of a donor impacts long-term allograft survival after kidney transplantation. Effects of the recipient's genetic make-up, particularly variation in immune response pathway genes, are less certain. Bay et al. reveal improved graft survival in transplant recipients with lower copy numbers of the complement 4 gene (C4) after receipt of deceased-donor kidneys. Genomics breakthroughs in nephrology and immunology will likely revolutionize the field of transplant medicine.
A critique of using real options pricing models in valuing real estate projects and contracts

Discounted cash flow (DCF) models have been criticised for using risky discount rates and subjective estimates of future cash flows. In addition, DCF models do not incorporate valuations of implicit options imbedded in capital projects. Recently, researchers have applied real options pricing models to evaluate real estate projects and contracts. However, the required assumptions and criteria for using these models may be absent in real estate projects, which raises the question whether these models produce better results or create more uncertainties for end users. This paper contains a review of the conditions and methods that have been proposed for applying real option models in real estate valuations. Copyright © 2002 Henry Stewart Publications
Local Regression With Meaningful Parameters

Local regression, or loess, has become a popular method for smoothing scatterplots and for nonparametric regression in general. The final result is a “smoothed” version of the data. To obtain the value of the smooth estimate associated with a given covariate a polynomial, usually a line, is fitted locally using weighted least squares. This article presents a version of local regression that fits more general parametric functions. In certain cases, the fitted parameters may be interpreted in some way and we call them meaningful parameters. Examples are included that show how this procedure is useful for signal processing, physiological, and financial data.
Experiments on high Richardson number instability of a rotating stratified shear flow

Abstract A recently discovered mechanism for producing step-like structure in a fluid's density field is explored under controlled laboratory conditions. Measurements of the conditions under which these “layers” exist, their direction, wavelength, and growth rate, are made and compared to the predictions of instability theory. The good agreement indicates that the layers are a result of a diffusive instability of a geostrophic shear flow. The instability can occur at higher and higher Richardson numbers, as the Schmidt number (ratio of diffusivities of momentum and salt) increases. Comparison of the density and velocity fields in the presence and absence of fully developed layers indicates that the instability functions mainly to transport momentum. Extrapolation of the measured wavelength to midlatitude oceanic conditions suggests that the momentum-density diffusive instability may play a role in producing meter-size oceanic microstructure.
Relationship between productivity, satisfaction, ability, age, and salary in a military R&D organization

The overall objective of this study is to analyze the results of data obtained from 94 questionnaires administered to 100 scientists and engineers employed in the Missile Systems Laboratory of the U.S. Army Missile Command in order to empirically investigate and identify the most important features of an engineer's or scientist's work environment as they relate to job satisfaction and productivity, and to recommend necessary steps for improvement of working climate in the laboratory. More specifically, the data are analyzed 1) to determine the factors involved in job satisfaction; 2) to relate productivity to job satisfaction, salary, and age of respondents; and 3) to determine, using a chi-square test of independence of classification, if there is any relationship between productivity and job satisfaction. The general conclusions arrived at, based on the sample information, are that 1) job satisfaction is a multidimensional factor; 2) there is general agreement between the findings of this study and similar studies — the points of similarities and dissimilarities are discussed; and 3) there is statistically, significant relationship between productivity and satisfaction.
In vitro metabolism of indomethacin morpholinylamide (BML-190), an inverse agonist for the peripheral cannabinoid receptor (CB2) in rat liver microsomes

The in vitro metabolism of an inverse agonist of the peripheral cannabinoid receptor (CB2), indomethacin morpholinylamide (BML-190), has been characterized using rat liver microsomal incubation. BML-190 was found to yield at least 15 metabolic products as identified by HPLC–MS/MS analysis. Four major phase one metabolic pathways either individually, or in combination, were proposed to account for the identified metabolic products: (1) loss of the p-chlorobenzyl group, (2) hydroxylation on the indole or on the morpholine ring, (3) morpholinyl ring opening, and (4) demethylation of the methoxyl group on the indole ring.
Effect of a surface layer on the investigation of AuFe alloys by transmission electron microscopy

Abstract A surface layer on as-jet-polished AuFe alloys was found. This layer influences the images of specimens investigated, which accordingly show a dynamical flickering phenomenon. However, lobe and/or rod-shaped precipitates contrasts were revealed once the specimens were further cleaned by an ion miller. Auger electron spectroscopy was employed to study the surface layer. Compared with a specimen after ion milling, a layer of chromium oxide about 20–30 A thick was found to exist on the surfaces of as-jet polished specimens. This may be the reason why previous studies on AuFe alloys failed to show any significant features in transmission electron microscopy. On the other hand, the present results suggest the possibility of the coexistence of Fe clustering and short-range ordering from both real and reciprocal spaces information.
A phase I study using bortezomib with weekly idarubicin for treatment of elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia.

Abstract We report the results of a phase I study with four dose levels of bortezomib in combination with idarubicin. Eligible patients were newly diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) age ≥60 years, or any adult with relapsed AML. Bortezomib was given twice weekly at 0.8, 1.0, or 1.2 mg/m2 with once weekly idarubicin 10 mg/m2 for four weeks. Twenty patients were treated: 13 newly diagnosed (median age 68, range 61–83) and 7 relapsed (median age 58, range 40–77). Prior myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) was documented in 10/13 (77%) newly diagnosed and 1/7 (14%) relapsed patients; the three newly diagnosed patients without prior MDS had dyspoietic morphology. Two dose-limiting toxicities occurred at the initial dose level (bortezomib 0.8 mg/m2 and idarubicin 10 mg/m2); idarubicin was reduced to 8 mg/m2 without observing subsequent dose-limiting toxicities. The maximum tolerated dose in this study was bortezomib 1.2 mg/m2 and idarubicin 8 mg/m2. Common adverse events included: neutropenic fever, infections, constitutional symptoms, and gastrointestinal symptoms. No subjects experienced neurotoxicity. Most patients demonstrated hematologic response as evidenced by decreased circulating blasts. Four patients (20%) achieved complete remission. There was one treatment-related death. The combination of bortezomib and idarubicin in this mostly poor-risk, older AML group was well tolerated and did not result in high mortality. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as # NCT00382954 .
An artificial processivity clamp made with streptavidin facilitates oriented attachment of polymerase–DNA complexes to surfaces

Single molecule analysis of individual enzymes can require oriented immobilization of the subject molecules on a detection surface. As part of a technology development project for single molecule DNA sequencing, we faced the multiple challenges of immobilizing both a DNA polymerase and its DNA template together in an active, stable complex capable of highly processive DNA synthesis on a nonstick surface. Here, we report the genetic modification of the archaeal DNA polymerase 9°N in which two biotinylated peptide ‘legs’ are inserted at positions flanking the DNA-binding cleft. Streptavidin binding on either side of the cleft both traps the DNA template in the polymerase and orients the complex on a biotinylated surface. We present evidence that purified polymerase–DNA–streptavidin complexes are active both in solution and immobilized on a surface. Processivity is improved from <20 nt in the unmodified polymerase to several thousand nucleotides in the engineered complexes. High-molecular weight DNA synthesized by immobilized complexes is observed moving above the surface even as it remains tethered to the polymerase. Pre-formed polymerase–DNA–streptavidin complexes can be stored frozen and subsequently thawed without dissociation or loss of activity, making them convenient for use in single molecule analysis.
Generalized sensorimotor adaptation with diminished feedback.

Adaptation to optical distortion was produced by viewing, through prisms, the trajectory of a dim point light source moved by the leg in an otherwise darkened room. The results show that such a minimal prism exposure condition produces adaptive sensorimotor shifts that alter 1. eye-foot coordination, entailing the contralateral and the ipsilateral leg, as well as 2. eye-hand coordination and 3. ego-centric localization. Generalization of adaptation produced by the minimal exposure condition was equal to that produced by the more customary prism exposure procedure, although its magnitude was somewhat smaller.
A fast and simple branching algorithm for solving small scale fixed-charge transportation problem

Abstract In this paper, we develop a simple algorithm for obtaining the global solution to a small scale fixed-charge transportation problem (FCTP). The procedure itself is very quick. The proposed method solves FCTP by decomposing the problem into series of smaller sub-problems, which is novel and can be useful to researchers solving any size of the problem.
Basal and meal-stimulated colonic absorption

PURPOSE : Few quantitative experiments evaluating colonic absorption of water and electrolytes have been performed using an awake, conscious animal model. The purpose of these experiments was to develop this type of model and evaluate both basal and meal-stimulated colonic absorption of water and electrolytes. METHODS : Canine Thiry-Vella fistulas were created using a 20 cm segment of distal colon under general anesthesia. Colonic absorption studies were performed using infusion of the Thiry-Vella fistulas with a buffer solution containing [ 14 C]polyethylene glycol. Electrolyte analysis and concentration of radioactivity in the effluent were obtained and used to calculate the net flux of water, sodium, and chloride. Each study consisted of an one-hour basal period and a three-hour experimental period divided into two groups. Group 1 received no meal. Group 2 orally ingested a mixed meal at the completion of the basal hour. RESULTS : In the basal state, water and electrolytes are absorbed from the distal colon at a steady and constant rate. An orally ingested meal produces a statistically significant increase in the rate of absorption, independent of direct colonic luminal contact with the nutrients of the meal given. CONCLUSIONS : These studies demonstrate an in vivo quantitative and qualitative measure of mammalian colonic water and electrolyte absorption. An increase in absorption rate occurs in response to a meal that is probably the result of an unidentified neural or humoral signal.
The connectedness of the set of equilibrium money prices depends on the choice of the numeraire

Abstract Peck [J. Econ. Theory 43 (1987) , 348–354] gives an example of a static general equilibrium economy with lump-sum taxes and transfers in which the set of equilibrium money prices is not connected. Here an example is presented, based on that of Peck, in which for a given tax policy the connectedness of the set of equilibrium money prices depends on the choice of the numeraire.
Researching self-help/mutual aid groups and organizations: Many roads, one journey

Abstract Self-help and mutual help groups are defined and the status of the literature described and reviewed. Self-help groups are different from peer and nonprofessional services under the supervision of professionals. Controlled studies of mutual help groups may be neither possible nor desirable as the method of choice by which to understand the phenomena of interest. Other approaches to research, including worldly evaluations, and ways of construing self-help organizations, that is, as normative communities and political action organizations rather than as psychological treatments, are discussed, and suggestions for future research are presented.
Stability of cycloserine in buffered aqueous solutions

The pH rate profile of the hydrolysis of cycloserine in aqueous buffers is reported. Apparent pseudo first-order plots of the hydrolytic degradation are observed over the entire pH range. Minimal over-all velocity occurs in the vicinity of pH 12. A linear log k -pH plot is found for the protonated molecule and the dipolar ion in the pH ranges 0.4 to 2.3 and 3.0 to 7.0. The hydrolysis is catalyzed by undissociated acetic acid, and the acetic acid-catalyzed reaction appears to be first order with respect to cycloserine, regardless of whether the protonated molecule or the dipolar ion is present in the solution. Primary kinetic salt effects were not detected in hydrolyses involving the protonated, dipolar, or anionic molecules. The kinetics suggest that in the acid-catalyzed hydrolysis the substrate is the protonated cycloserine molecule. An intermolecular electrophilic-nucleophilic mechanism involving this substrate is considered.
Soil heterogeneity and potato fertilizer recommendations

Each of 24 field experiments ranging from. 23 to 3.1 acres in size was divided into small rectangles. Each rectangle was soil sampled and each sample was analyzed separately for phosphorus and potassium. In some experiments separate samples were taken from both the top and the second foot of soil. The means, standard deviations, coefficients of variation and the percentage of the experimental area which fell into one of five nutrient level classifications were calculated.
A Method for Studying the Professional Practical Knowledge of Service Providers.

This paper presents Professional Practical Knowledge research, a method for studying the observable action and invisible knowledge of service providers. The method grows out of the symbolic interactionist perspective and can be categorized as a qualitative mode of inquiry. Information is provided for guidance in deciding whether or not to use this methodology.