cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bidirectional reflectance function in coastal waters: modeling and validation

The current operational algorithm for the correction of bidirectional effects from the satellite ocean color data is optimized for typical oceanic waters. However, versions of bidirectional reflectance correction algorithms, specifically tuned for typical coastal waters and other case 2 conditions, are particularly needed to improve the overall quality of those data. In order to analyze the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) of case 2 waters, a dataset of typical remote sensing reflectances was generated through radiative transfer simulations for a large range of viewing and illumination geometries. Based on this simulated dataset, a case 2 water focused remote sensing reflectance model is proposed to correct above-water and satellite water leaving radiance data for bidirectional effects. The proposed model is first validated with a one year time series of in situ above-water measurements acquired by collocated multi- and hyperspectral radiometers which have different viewing geometries installed at the Long Island Sound Coastal Observatory (LISCO). Match-ups and intercomparisons performed on these concurrent measurements show that the proposed algorithm outperforms the algorithm currently in use at all wavelengths.
Adsorptive membranes vs. resins for acetic acid removal from biomass hydrolysates

Acetic acid is a compound commonly found in hemicellulosic hydrolysates. This weak acid strongly influences the bioconversion of sugar containing hydrolysates. Previous investigators have used anion exchange resins for acetic acid removal from different hemicellulosic hydrolysates. In this study, the efficiency of an anion exchange membrane was compared to that of an anion exchange resin, for acetic acid removal from a DI water solution and an acidic hemicellulose hydrolysate pretreated using two different methods. Ion exchange membranes and resins have very different geometries. Here the performance of membranes and resins is compared using two dimensionless parameters, the relative mass throughput and chromatographic bed number. The relative mass throughput arises naturally from the Thomas solution for ion exchange. The results show that the membrane exhibit better performance in terms of capacity, and loss of the desired sugars. In addition acetic acid may be eluted at a higher concentration from the membrane thus leading to the possibility of recovery and re-use of the acetic acid.
STRATEGIC FACILITY PLANNING: THE ANALYSIS OF OPTIONS

This paper addresses the issue of uncertainty in planning the long-term development of facility systems. In certain instances, the high variance of a single future forecast can be reduced by using a set of alternative future scenarios. By carefully selecting facility configurations, the planner can delay the selection of a future set of facility sites at little or no sacrifice while additional information is gathered and uncertainty reduced. This allows the planner to maintain flexibility in adapting to a complex and dynamic environment. Several models are presented for different planning contexts. Examples for each, as well as a robust bicriterion solution heuristic, are also provided.
Polychlorinated biphenyl congeners (PCBs),p,p′-DDE and hexachlorobenzene in human milk in three areas of upstate New York

Forty human milk samples from women in an urban and a rural vicinity on Lake Ontario (Rochester and Oswego) and a mixed urban and rural location on the Hudson River (Albany), New York, were analyzed for 74 PCB congeners,p,p′-DDE, hexachlorobenzene, and mirex in order to determine the intake of breast-fed infants. All of the compounds were detected in the samples, but only eight PCB congeners andp,p′-DDE accounted for 88% of the chlorinated hydrocarbons detected.p,p′-DDE was the predominant pollutant (mean 78 ng/g wet weight), but the levels detected were low compared with the results from other parts of North America. Eight individual PCB congeners comprise 52% of the total PCB residue (mean 26.5 ng/g of whole milk); they ranged in mean concentration from 3.2 ng/g (2,4,5,2′,4′,5′-hexachlorobiphenyl) to 1 ng/g (2,3,4,3′,4′-pentachlorobiphenyl). Statistical correlation analysis among PCB congeners indicates a possible higher exposure to less chlorinated congeners at Oswego than at Albany.
Monte Carlo Comparison of ANOVA, MIVQUE, REML, and ML Estimators of Variance Components

For the one-way classification random model with unbalanced data, we compare five estimators of σ2 a and σ2 e , the among- and within-treatments variance components: analysis of variance (ANOVA), maximum likelihood (ML), restricted maximum likelihood (REML), and two minimum variance quadratic unbiased (MIVQUE) estimators. MIVQUE(0) is MIVQUE with a priori values = 0 and = 1; MIVQUE(A) is MIVQUE with the ANOVA estimates used as a priori's, We enforce nonnegativity for all estimators, setting any negative estimate to zero in accord with usual practice. The estimators are compared through their biases and MSE's, estimated by Monte Carlo simulation. Our results indicate that the ANOVA estimators perform well, except with seriously unbalanced data when σ2 a /σ2 e > 1; ML is excellent when σ2 a /σ2 e < 0.5, and MIVQUE(A) is adequate; further iteration to the REML estimates is unnecessary. When σ2 a /σ2 e ≥ 1, MIVQUE(0) (the default for SASS PROCEDURE VARCOMP) is poor for estimating σ2 a and very poor for σ2 e ,...
Interleukin-6 polymorphisms and hematologic malignancy: a re-appraisal of evidence from genetic association studies

AbstractContext: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is implicated in the pathophysiology of hematologic neoplasia.Objective: To review the role of IL-6 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in hematologic neoplasia.Methods: PubMed and EMBASE search of genetic association studies. Effects were summarized using the model-free generalized odds ratio (ORG), and the mode of inheritance was estimated for significant associations.Results: Seventeen articles provided data on 20 distinct SNPs. The IL-6 receptor rs8192284 was associated with an increased risk of hematologic malignancy (combined ORG 1.42, 95%CI 1.03–1.96), including multiple myeloma (ORG 1.39, 95%CI 0.99–1.95). The IL-6 promoter rs1800795 conferred protection against young adult Hodgkin’s disease (ORG 0.68, 95%CI 0.48–0.95). Significant single-study effects for four other SNPs-disease associations were estimated. The IL-6 promoter rs1800795 and rs1800797 were not associated with overall susceptibility to non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas.Conclusions: There is accumulating...
Transaction costs and environmental policy design

Abstract This article synthesizes the growing empirical literature on transaction costs to identify pragmatic design recommendations for environmental and natural resource policies. The New Institutional Economics literature recognizes that appropriate policy choice and design will be a function of the specific characteristics of the problem. The physical and institutional determinants of both transaction costs and abatement costs should be considered in the policy design process due to potential interactions between them. Analysts also need to incorporate the extent to which the technologies, institutional environment, governance structures, or policy designs can be changed; some factors can only be adjusted to or “designed around” while others can be designed differently. This framework highlights the importance of property rights since transaction costs will be incurred to obtain or retain property rights and since the rights assignment may affect both the magnitudes and distribution of costs. Another implication is that education and extension programs or use of behavioral economics concepts to affect choices can be cost-effective in some circumstances. Policy design should take advantage of economies of scale and foster technical change. Appropriate sequencing of policy instruments may decrease transaction costs, particularly if there is potential for technical change.
Morphometry of hilar ectopic granule cells in the rat

Granule cell (GC) neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus (DG) does not always proceed normally. After severe seizures (e.g., status epilepticus [SE]) and some other conditions, newborn GCs appear in the hilus. Hilar ectopic GCs (EGCs) can potentially provide insight into the effects of abnormal location and seizures on GC development. Additionally, hilar EGCs that develop after SE may contribute to epileptogenesis and cognitive impairments that follow SE. Thus, it is critical to understand how EGCs differ from normal GCs. Relatively little morphometric information is available on EGCs, especially those restricted to the hilus. This study quantitatively analyzed the structural morphology of hilar EGCs from adult male rats several months after pilocarpine-induced SE, when they are considered to have chronic epilepsy. Hilar EGCs were physiologically identified in slices, intracellularly labeled, processed for light microscopic reconstruction, and compared to GC layer GCs, from both the same post-SE tissue and the NeuroMorpho database (normal GCs). Consistently, hilar EGC and GC layer GCs had similar dendritic lengths and field sizes, and identifiable apical dendrites. However, hilar EGC dendrites were topologically more complex, with more branch points and tortuous dendritic paths. Three-dimensional analysis revealed that, remarkably, hilar EGC dendrites often extended along the longitudinal DG axis, suggesting increased capacity for septotemporal integration. Axonal reconstruction demonstrated that hilar EGCs contributed to mossy fiber sprouting. This combination of preserved and aberrant morphological features, potentially supporting convergent afferent input to EGCs and broad, divergent efferent output, could help explain why the hilar EGC population could impair DG function.
Structure, composition and chemisorption studies of thin ordered iron oxide films on platinum (111)

Abstract We report the epitaxial growth of iron oxide overlayers on a platinum (111) single crystal, in the monolayer and the multilayer regimes. Different LEED structures have been observed for each of these regimes. At one monolayer coverage iron oxide forms an incommensurate overlayer with 10% longer unit cell vectors than those of clean platinum. At coverages of 3 to 10 monolayers, iron oxide forms a new structure, which is (2×2) with respect to that formed at one monolayer. AES and XPS show that the iron in the oxide overlayer is in the 2+ oxidation state and from ISS studies it was determined that both iron and oxygen are present in the outermost atomic layer in about equal amounts. Water adsorption on the iron oxide films was studied by TPD. It was found that the desorption spectrum is very sensitive to the presence of various types of defects on the oxide.
Endocrine-mediated parallel changes in hepatic glucocorticoid and prolactin receptors.

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine whether in female rat liver any relationship existed between prolactin and glucocorticoid receptors after hormonal manipulation. Bromocryptine (CB-154) treatment of adult SD female rats (80–100 days old) for 48 h decreased prolactin binding to hepatic membranes 49% and dexamethasone binding in hepatic cytosol 40% below control values. Administration of rat prolactin along with bromocriptine prevented these changes. In another study, prolactin binding to hepatic membranes increased 53% and dexamethasone binding in hepatic cytosol increased 113% above sham-control values, 3 days after adrenalectomy. On the other hand, hydrocortisone treatment of sham-operated rats reduced prolactin binding by 57% and dexamethasone binding by 76%. Scatchard analyses of the prolactin or dexamethasone binding data indicated that these manipulations changed the number of prolactin or dexamethasone binding sites rather than their apparent affinity constants. In vitro treatment of rat whole liver homogenate with various doses (10 −9 −10 −5 M) of dexamethasone and corticosterone for 15 min at 22°C resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in prolactin binding activity. However, direct addition of dexamethasone to a hepatic 15 000 × g to 100 000 × g membrane preparation exhibited no significant effects on prolactin binding. In conclusion, these studies show that (a) there is a parallel in vivo modulation of rat liver prolactin and glucocorticoid receptors under various experimental conditions and (b) in vitro exposure of whole liver homogenate to glucocorticoids inhibits the prolactin binding activity.
Stereotypes About Physical and Social Characteristics Based on Social and Professional Competence Information

Abstract The assumed connection between social and professional competence and physical and social personal qualities were examined by having American undergraduate students make attributions about a target described in a fictitious case study. Information about the target's social and professional success was varied to create high and low levels of each; both target and subject sex were also varied. Subjets estimated the height and weight of the target and rated physical attractiveness, interpersonal attraction, and intelligence. The results indicate a perceived relationship between competence and both physical and social characteristics. Competent individuals were considered to be taller, more physically attractive, and more socially attractive. Professional competence led to predictions of greater intelligence. Except for the expected overall height and weight advantage for men, target sex yielded a single reliable effect. In estimating weights, target sex interacted with social competence. High social...
SOME FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE PURE TONE DELAYED AUDITORY FEEDBACK.

Some of the major factors that might influence tapping changes induced by relatively short-term, pure tone delayed auditory feedback (DAF) were investigated. Stimulus frequency, subject, sex, sophi...
Listening to and Learning from Older Adult Hurricane Katrina Survivors

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this pilot study was to explore how Hurricane Katrina affected older adult disaster survivors. DESIGN AND SAMPLE: Participants for this descriptive exploratory pilot study were recruited from churches and senior centers on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. Of the 224 participants, one hundred provided additional comments at the end of a forced-response questionnaire. MEASURES: Manifest content analysis was used to examine the participants' comments by identifying, coding, and categorizing their responses to the open-ended question. The codes were based on conditions and behaviors that might be exhibited by disaster victims. RESULTS: Themed categories were losses and needs, giving advice, justification for continuing to live in this disaster-prone region, deterrents and facilitators of home evacuation, spirituality and faith, manageability, bereavement, grief, anger, and natural debriefing. CONCLUSION: The strongest message of these survivors was the need to be heard by public health nurses, other public health officials preparing for disasters, and those in positions to render aid. Language: en
Plain and buffered lidocaine for neonatal circumcision.

Abstract Objective: To determine if buffered lidocaine provided a more effective nerve block in a short time than plain lidocaine for neonatal circumcision. Methods: One hundred ninety-four newborn males were studied in a randomized trial using two dorsal penile nerve block preparations for circumcision. Ninety-two received plain lidocaine, and 102 received buffered lidocaine. The infants were evaluated at timed intervals before the procedure, during anesthetic injection, and during circumcision. Objective measurements of heart rate and oxygen saturation, and subjective determinations of behavioral state were recorded. Using heart rate as the major outcome variable, it was determined that 65 subjects per group would be needed to achieve a power of .08. Complications also were noted. Results: Heart rates and oxygen saturations were similar in the two groups at each timed interval. The behavioral characteristics and amount of crying also were comparable in both groups. The only complication was minor bleeding, seen in each group. Conclusion: Adding a buffering agent to lidocaine did not provide a more effective level of anesthesia in a short time.
High-speed GaAs/AlGaAs optoelectronic devices for computer applications

We present an overview, mainly of work in our laboratory, of low-threshold GaAs/AlGaAs quantum-well laser diodes and GaAs metal-semiconductor-metal photodetectors—two optoelectronic devices which show good promise for use in computer-related communication. Present-day telecommunication device technology (based on InP materials) is not well suited to the requirements of optical data communication among and within computers because the computer environment is much more demanding. It imposes a higher ambient temperature on the devices, and requires denser packaging and smaller power dissipation per device, as well as a high degree of parallelism. The GaAs/AlGaAs device technology is ideally suited to this task because of the possibility of integration of arrays of high-speed, low-threshold laser diodes and high-speed photodetectors with high-performance electronic circuits.
Global cost optimization in image registration using simulated annealing

A new optimization method for image registration has been proposed. Registration using Simulated Annealing converges to global minima/maxima as opposed to the previously wildly used algorithms that get trapped in local minima. The performance of this algorithm is tested against two other well-known optimization algorithms, Powell and Down Hill Simplex using two different methods. First, the algorithms are tested against famous De jong Test Suites and second, they are tested against Two-Cube Phantom. Our data shows that simulated annealing is the only algorithm that will always converges to the global minima with the cost of more function evaluation.
Mechanisms of integrin-mediated calcium signaling in MDCK cells: regulation of adhesion by IP3- and store-independent calcium influx

Peptides containing Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) immobilized on beads bind to integrins and trigger biphasic, transient increases in intracellular free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) in Madin-Darby canine kidney epithelial cells. The [Ca2+]i increase participates in feedback regulation of integrin-mediated adhesion in these cells. We examined influx pathways and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-mediated Ca2+ store release as possible sources of the [Ca2+]i rise. The RGD-induced [Ca2+]i response requires external Ca2+ (threshold approximately 150 microM), and its magnitude is proportional to extracellular calcium. RGD-induced transients were attenuated by Ca2+ channel inhibitors (Ni2+ and carboxy-amidotriazole) or by plasma membrane depolarization, indicating that Ca2+ influx contributes to the response. Loading cells with heparin reduced the size of RGD-induced [Ca2+]i transients, indicating that IP3-mediated release of Ca2+ from stores may also contribute to the RGD response. Depletion of Ca2+ stores with thapsigargin activated Ni(2+)-sensitive Ca2+ influx that might also be expected to occur after IP3-mediated depletion of stored Ca2-. However, RGD elicited a Ni(2+)-sensitive Ca2+ influx even after pretreatment with thapsigargin, indicating that Ca2+ influx is controlled by a mechanism independent of IP3-mediated store depletion. We conclude that RGD-induced [Ca2+]i transients in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells result primarily from the combination of two distinct mechanisms: 1) IP3-mediated release of intracellular stores, and 2) activation of a Ca2+ influx pathway regulated independently of IP3 and Ca2+ store release. Because Ni2+ and carboxy-amidotriazole inhibited adhesion, whereas store depletion with thapsigargin had little effect, we suggest that the Ca2+ influx mechanism is most important for feedback regulation of integrin-mediated adhesion by increased [Ca2+]i.
Sample Size and Heterogeneity Effects on the Analysis of Whole Soybean Seed Using Near Infrared Spectroscopy

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] breeders and physiologists are commonly interested in evaluating single plants for seed protein and oil concentration. Moreover, breeders tend to prefer nondestructive techniques so that soybean seed may be retained for variety development. Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technology can be an inexpensive and convenient method for nondestructive analysis of seed; however, many instruments require a 300 to 500-g sample size to operate. Recently, Perten Instruments, Inc. developed a 20 g "breeder's" cup for use with their DA 7200 diode array NIRS instrument. This study was initiated to explore the accuracy and repeatability of this very small cup relative to the standard 300 g cup. While no significant protein bias was discovered, a positive 4 g kg -1 bias for oil prediction was found. Seven to eight repeated scans of the breeder's cup were required to increase cup precision compared to a single scan using the standard large cup, potentially due to the large amount of protein and oil heterogeneity within examined seed lots. While the precision of the protein and oil estimation of both cup sizes increased with repeated scans, the low precision noted with the breeder's cup virtually mandates multiple scans or destructive sampling through grinding.
Extension of Boussinesq turbulence constitutive relation for bridging methods

Bridging methods for turbulence simulation are adaptive eddy-viscosity schemes based on the accuracy-on-demand paradigm, much like hybrid approaches. The object is to resolve more scales of motion than Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) by suitably reducing the eddy viscosity as a function of grid spacing. Currently, there are two proposals for extending the RANS two-equation model with Boussinesq constitutive relation to bridging methods. In the first approach, it is suggested that the coefficient in the Boussinesq relation be reduced and the transport equations for the length and velocity scales left unaltered for achieving the desired level of viscosity reduction. The second approach suggests that the viscosity reduction is better achieved by suitably modifying the transport equations rather than altering the Boussinesq coefficient. In this paper, we compare the merits of the two methods in two important benchmark cases: flows past circular cylinder and backward facing step. Three types of evaluati...
Disruption of anterior insula modulation of large-scale brain networks in schizophrenia.

Background Systems level modeling of functional magnetic resonance imaging data has demonstrated dysfunction of several large-scale brain networks in schizophrenia. Anomalies across multiple functional networks associated with schizophrenia could be due to diffuse pathology across multiple networks or, alternatively, dysfunction at converging control(s) common to these networks. The right anterior insula has been shown to modulate activity in the central executive and default mode networks in healthy individuals. We tested the hypothesis that right anterior insula modulation of central executive and default mode networks is disrupted in schizophrenia and associated with cognitive deficits. Methods In 44 patients with schizophrenia and 44 healthy control subjects, we used seed-based resting state functional connectivity functional magnetic resonance imaging analysis to examine connectivity between right insular subregions and central executive/default mode network regions. We also performed two directed connectivity analyses of resting state data: Granger analysis and confirmatory structural equation modeling. Between-group differences in path coefficients were used to evaluate anterior insula modulation of central executive and default mode networks. Cognitive performance was assessed with the rapid visual information processing task, a test of sustained attention. Results With multiple connectivity techniques, we found compelling, corroborative evidence of disruption of right anterior insula modulation of central executive and default mode networks in patients with schizophrenia. The strength of right anterior insula modulation of these networks predicted cognitive performance. Conclusions Individuals with schizophrenia have impaired right anterior insula modulation of large-scale brain networks. The right anterior insula might be an emergent pathophysiological gateway in schizophrenia.
Much HUBbub about stem-cell niches

Stem cells, and the microenvironment or 'niche' that influences them, must often reside in a particular location within a tissue to perform their function. Integrin-mediated adhesion is now shown to regulate the location of the stem-cell niche in the Drosophila testis.
SU‐FF‐T‐385: Statistical Analysis of I‐125 Prostate Brachytherapy

Purpose: Permanent Interstitial brachytherapy with I‐125 seeds has been utilized for the treatment of early stage prostate cancer and has provided low risk of complications. The purpose of this study was to analyze the preplan and post‐implant dosimetry data statistically for the I‐125 prostate brachytherapy in order to confirm the accuracy and consistency of the seed implant techniques. Method and Materials: Preplan and post‐implant dosimetry were performed for 39 patients in I‐125 prostate brachytherapy during last three years at Northwestern Memorial Hospital (NMH). The prostate volumes were measured using an ultrasound(US) system and the prostate contours with margins were applied for preplans. CTimages were acquired within 3 days of the implant day for post‐implant dosimetry. Activities between 0.31 and 0.34 mCi per seed were used for the prescription dose of 144 Gy. The relationships between the US volumes and the numbers of seeds and needles were analyzed. The V(100) and D(90) were obtained in the post‐implant dosimetry.Results: The US volume ranged from 32 cm3 to 65 cm3 (n=39). The mean numbers of seeds and needles used were 95.3, 109.0, 116.1, 130.2 and 32.0, 31.5, 32.6, 35.8 for the US volume groups of 30–39 (n=4), 40–49 (n=17), 50–59 (n=13), 60–65 cm3 (n=5), respectively. The mean V(100) and D(90) were 91.9% of the prostate volume and 105.7% of the prescription dose, respectively. Conclusion: The prostate volume group of 40–49 cm3 (n=17) included the greatest number of patients in this study. The numbers of seeds has increased linearly as the US volume increased. The numbers of needles used were relatively consistent over the different volume groups. We demonstrated the accuracy and consistency of the I‐125 prostate brachytherapy with the modern computer‐based dosimetry,ultrasound system, and template‐based transperineal implant techniques.
A Time To Be Born: Implications of Animal Studies in Maternal‐Fetal Medicine

Recent studies on the capabilities of the fetus in the last third of gestation demonstrated that the fetus actively prepares for its journey to the extrauterine environment. The most remarkable of these preparations is that the fetal brain gives the signal to begin the birth process. Several studies, particularly those conducted in sheep, showed that endocrine signals from the fetal brain are sent to the placenta to stimulate increased estrogen production. The increased estrogen production initiates uterine contractility, and starts the labor process. The mother's oxytocin production also plays a role by determining the precise time of the day that the baby is born. These studies produced fascinating insights into fetal and uterine physiology that have already begun to be employed in clinical care. One primary example in the application of this new knowledge obtained originally from studies on fetal sheep is in understanding the endocrine regulation of fetal production of surfactant to treat women in preterm labor and to produce artificial surfactants for the treatment of babies delivered too early. It is important to obtain and use reproducible data gained from carefully controlled animal experiments to rationalize clinical management practices. Basic research should precede changes in clinical management, rather than follow them, as is so often the case.
On suboptimal controls

Even when the optimal control is known, it may be physically impossible to attain it in practice. Bang-bang control, for example, needs inertialess controllers. Here, for a restricted class of optimal control problems, the following question is answered, "If optimal control cannot be achieved, what alternative criterion for judging suboptimal controls can be introduced?"
Pet Dog Ownership Decisions for Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

This study aimed to examine the role of pet dogs in families of children with autism. Sixty-seven percent of families owned dogs and 94% reported that their children were bonded to their dogs. Parents described previous experience with dogs and beliefs in their benefits as influential in their dog ownership decision-making process. Children living with dogs interacted with them in play and/or sharing personal space. Sensory issues of the children impacted their interaction with dogs inside and outside the home. Time and cost of care were identified burdens of dog ownership. Benefits were the opportunity to learn responsibility and companionship.
Growth and RNA synthesis in maize seedlings treated with ethyl methanesulfonate.

Abstract Corn seeds were treated with the chemical mutagen ethyl methanesulfonate and the resulting seedlings were examined for growth and RNA synthesis. Ethyl methanesulfonate treatments reduced shoot elongation, seedling growth, and chromatin-directed RNA polymerase activity of shoot tissues. The chromatin RNA polymerase activity of control seedlings peaked at 24 h. This peak was delayed up to 12 h by the chemical mutagen treatment. Saturation of embryonic axis chromatin with E . coli RNA polymerase indicated that ethyl methanesulfonate increased the amount of DNA available as template. In both the treated and control axes, the available template decreased with tissue differentiation.
Visual recognition memory for complex configurations

Previous studies of recognition memory for heterogeneous pictorial stimuli suggest an unusually large storage and retrieval capacity. In the first experiment, three series of homogeneous pictures (faces, ink blots, snow crystals) were presented to six independent groups of Ss, and recognition was tested immediately or 48 h later. Accuracy and sex were related to stimulus configuration; at both time intervals, accuracy was best for faces and poorest for snow crystals. Levels of accuracy were below those attained in studies using heterogeneous arrays. The results of two other experiments suggest the relative unimportance of verbal mediation in recognition of homogeneous pictorial stimuli.
Adiponectin reduces thermogenesis by inhibiting brown adipose tissue activation in mice

Aims/hypothesis Adiponectin is an adipocyte-derived hormone that plays an important role in energy homeostasis. The main objective of this study was to investigate whether or not adiponectin regulates brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation and thermogenesis.
Sensitive detection and identification of mycoplasma-like organisms in plants by polymerase chain reactions.

DNA amplification by polymerase chain reactions (PCR) was employed to detect host plant infection by several mycoplasmalike organisms (MLOs), including the aster yellows (AY), dwarf aster yellows (DAY), and periwinkle little leaf (0–1) MLOs. For PCR, two pairs of oligonucleotide primers, designated AY18pm and AY19pm, respectively, were synthesized on the basis of partial sequences of cloned AY MLO DNA fragments AY18 and AY19. Reaction mixtures containing primer pair AY18pm yielded a DNA product of 1.6Kbp, when template consisted of DNA extracted from AY MLO- or DAY MLO-infected Catharanthus roseus (periwinkle). A DNA product of 1.0Kbp was obtained with primer pair AY19pm, when template consisted of DNA extracted from C. roseus infected by AY MLO, DAY MLO, or periwinkle little leaf (strain 0–1) MLO. MLO-specific bands were observed when reaction mixtures contained as little as 5 pg total nucleic acid from infected plants. No PCR product was observed when reaction mixtures contained only DNA from healthy plants or DNA from plants infected by western X MLO or by tomato big bud MLO. The findings indicated that the PCR system is useful for sensitive detection and differentiation of MLOs in infected hosts.
The demise of a major Acropora palmata bank–barrier reef off the southeast coast of Barbados, West Indies

Formerly attributed to human activity, the demise of a bank–barrier reef off southeastern Barbados known as Cobbler’s Reef is now thought to be largely the result of late Holocene, millennial-scale storm damage. Eleven surface samples of the reef crest coral Acropora palmata from nine sites along its 15-km length plot above the western Atlantic sea-level curve from 3,000 to 4,500 cal years ago (calibrated, calendar 14C years). These elevated clusters suggest that the reef complex suffered extensive storm damage during this period. The constant heavy wave action typical of this area and consequent low herbivory maintain conditions favoring algal growth, thereby limiting the reestablishment of post-storm reef framework. Site descriptions and detailed line surveys show a surface now composed mainly of reworked fragments of A. palmata covered with algal turf, macroalgae and crustose coralline algae. The reef contains no live A. palmata and only a few scattered coral colonies consisting primarily of Diploria spp. and Porites astreoides, along with the hydrocoral Millepora complanata. A few in situ framework dates plot at expected depths for normal coral growth below the sea-level curve during and after the period of intense storm activity. The most recent of these in situ samples are 320 and 400 cal years old. Corals of this late period likely succumbed to high turbidity associated with land clearance for sugarcane agriculture in the mid-1600s.
Can children with spastic cerebral palsy use self-hypnosis to reduce muscle tone? a preliminary study

A few scattered reports suggest self-hypnosis may be helpful in reducing muscle tone in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). These reports are largely anecdotal and offer little objective evidence. This study used the Biocomp 2000 biofeedback electomyogram device to measure the degree of muscle tension in two muscle groups before, during, and after hypnosis in four children with spastic quadriplegic CP. Three of the four children were able to show a very significant decrease in muscle tension while under "trance" and were able to use self-relaxation techniques when confronted with stressful situations. Two of the children also had athetoid or involuntary movements and each was able to better control those movements with the aid of hypnosis. All four children demonstrated improved functional abilities.
Certain metabolic effects of corticotropin, hydrocortisone, prednisone, and aspirin, in normal dogs.

The losses of weight and nitrogen produced by daily doses of corticotropin (20 units), hydrocortisone acetate (15 mg.), and prednisone (10 mg.) were studied in normal bitches receiving a constant a...
Correlations between human salivary levels of lysozyme, lactoferrin, salivary peroxidase and secretory immunoglobulin A with different stimulatory states and over time.

Abstract Within-subject correlations for the levels of these salivary proteins were determined in unstimulated and stimulated parotid saliva collected from 8 subjects and for stimulated parotid saliva collected from the same subjects once a week for a 4-week period. Initial correlations between unstimulated and stimulated samples were high and statistically significant (p
A motion correction scheme by twin‐echo navigation for diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging with multiple RF echo acquisition

In this paper, a series of diffusion-weighted fast spin-echo (FSE) sequences with a new motion correction scheme are introduced. This correction scheme is based on the navigator echo technique. Unlike conventional spin-echo imaging, motion correction for FSE is complicated by the phase oscillation between odd-numbered and even-numbered echoes and the complex phase relationship between spin echo and stimulated echo components. In our approach, incoherent phase shifting due to motion is monitored by consecutive acquisition of two navigator echoes, which provide information on both inter-echo and intra-echo train phase shifts. Applications to both phantom and in vivo studies are presented.
Legislators’ Beliefs on Tobacco Control Policies in Nevada

The purpose of this study was to identify Nevada legislators’ views on comprehensive smoke-free (SF) policy development. The Nevada Clean Indoor Air Act (NCIAA) is a weak law that prohibits smoking in most indoor public places, excluding stand-alone bars and casino gaming areas. Nevada’s state senators and assembly members were contacted to participate in the study. A literature review guided modifications of an instrument previously used to measure county-level officials’ policy views in Kentucky. Descriptive statistics were conducted for selected variables, while independent t tests and one-way analysis of variance were used to examine differences between various groups. 23 of 63 legislators participated. Even though the majority of officials recognized smoking as a health hazard and nicotine as addictive, there was not overwhelming support for strengthening the NCIAA, raising cigarette excise taxes or providing cessation benefits to citizens. Officials believed that the NCIAA was having a negative economic impact on smaller gaming businesses, but not on the casino industry. Democrats were more likely than Republicans to agree that raising the excise tax by $1 is important for needed state revenues. 63% of legislators believed that they would be persuaded to strengthen the NCIAA regardless of its financial impact on small businesses, if their constituents supported such a move. No other state relies on gaming revenues as much as Nevada. Given that legislators are strongly influenced by their constituents’ views, policy advocates need to establish grassroots support for strengthening the current NCIAA and also tobacco control laws in general.
Anti-MS4a4B treatment abrogates MS4a4B-mediated protection in T cells and ameliorates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Recent data show that anti-CD20 therapy is effective for some autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the efficacy of anti-CD20 therapy for MS is largely limited because anti-CD20 antibodies target only B cells. In previous studies, we have investigated the function of MS4a4B, a novel CD20 homologue, in T cell proliferation. Here, we found that MS4a4B regulates not only T cell proliferation but also T cell apoptosis. Knockdown of MS4a4B by MS4a4B-siRNA or MS4a4B-shRNA-expressing vector promoted apoptosis in primary T cells and T32 cell line. In contrast, vector-driven over-expression of MS4a4B reduced apoptosis in EL-4 cells. Machinery analysis showed that MS4a4B-mediated T cell survival was associated with decreased activity of caspases 3, 8 and 9. Interestingly, binding of anti-MS4a4B antibodies to T cells induced activated T cells to undergo apoptosis. To test whether anti-MS4a4B antibody interferes with MS4a4B-mediated protection of T cells, we injected anti-MS4a4B antibodies into mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The results show that anti-MS4a4B treatment ameliorated the severity of EAE, accompanied by decreased Th1 and Th17 cell responses and reduced levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the central nervous system, suggesting that MS4a4B may serve as a target of antibody-based therapy for T cell-mediated diseases.
Comparative electrophysiologic and coronary hemodynamic effects of diltiazem, nisoldipine and verapamil on myocardial tissue.

The effects of diltiazem, nisoldipine (a nifedipine derivative) and verapamil on electrical and mechanical activity were studied in isolated canine Purkinje fibers and in isolated human atrial appendage. The actions of these three drugs on atrioventricular (A-V) conduction and coronary resistance were studied in open chest dogs in which autonomic effects were minimized by alpha and beta receptor blockade, bilateral vagotomy and atrial pacing after crushing of the sinus node. In isolated canine Purkinje fibers superfused with 5.4 m M of potassium in Tyrode's solution, normal action potentials and tension development were observed. Administration of diltiazem, nisoldipine and verapamil produced complete excitation/contraction uncoupling. The 50 percent effective concentrations for each drug in relation to tension development were calculated to be: diltiazem, 3 × 10 −7 M ; nisoldipine, 1.4 × 10 −8 M ; and verapamil, 4.2 × 10 −8 M . The ease with which the effects of the drugs could be washed out differed among the three agents. The percent of control tension achieved during washout was 40 percent for diltiazem, 75 percent for nisoldipine and 90 percent for verapamil. The reductions in tension development were accompanied by reductions in plateau amplitude and action potential duration at 50 percent of repolarization. Action potential duration at 90 percent of repolarization was significantly decreased by diltiazem, unchanged by nisoldipine and significantly increased by verapamil. In potassium-depolarized, isoproterenol-restored canine Purkinje fibers that demonstrated slow channel-dependent electrical activity, diltiazem, nisoldipine and verapamil all blocked action potential and subsequent tension development. These effects of diltiazem were completely reversed after 30 minutes of washout, but the effects of nisoldipine and verapamil were more difficult to reverse. In human atrial tissue, these three agents also abolished spontaneous slow channel-dependent action potentials. All three drugs produced excitation-contraction uncoupling and blocked slow channel-dependent electrical activity in canine and human cardiac tissue presumably by blocking the slow inward current. The different effects of each drug on action potential configuration suggest that each drug may also significantly affect other membrane currents. In intact open chest dogs, each drug lengthened atrial-His conduction times without affecting intraatrial or intraventricular conduction times. Coronary resistance was also decreased by each drug. High concentrations of each drug produced second degree A-V block and severe hypotension. As with the studies in isolated tissues the decreasing order of potency was nisoldipine, verapamil and diltiazem.
Electron–plasmon resonance in quantum wells with inverted subband population

Abstract The inverted order of subband occupation, n 2 > n 1 , in quantum-well heterostructures designed for the intersubband lasers results in a novel effective relaxation mechanism for nonequilibrium electrons in the lower subband due to emission of the intersubband plasmons. In contrast to the cascade relaxation by phonons and intrasubband plasmons, this one-step scattering process efficiently fills the final states for light-emitting transitions. Resonant screening, which is influenced by the process of intersubband plasmon excitation, leads to downshift and narrowing of the intersubband optical emission spectra.
Cardiac Transplantation: A Quarter Century of Progress

This article provides a review of the current status of cardiac transplantation, which offers the only viable alternative for the management of patients with refractory congestive heart failure. The criteria for recipient evaluation and selection are discussed. The major limitation to the number of potential recipients of cardiac transplantation is the availability of donors, numbering about 2000 per year. The current one-year survival rate is approximately 80%, while the 5-year survival rate is in excess of 70%. These numbers confirm the therapeutic benefit derived from cardiac transplantation, and are in marked contrast to the one-year mortality rate of 30–60% experienced by patients with New York Heart Association class IV congestive heart failure. The long-term complications of cardiac transplantation include acute and chronic rejection, infection, the side effects of immunosuppressive agents (including nephrotoxicity and hypertension), the development of neoplasms, and accelerated transplant coronary arteriopathy. This paper also emphasizes the areas in which investigation into the behavioral aspects of cardiac transplantation may be directed, including: (a) study of the individual and group attitudes toward organ donation; (b) psychologic implications of mechanical circulatory support as an alternative to cardiac transplantation; (c) in the transplanted patient with a denervated heart there is the opportunity to study the interaction between the autonomic nervous system and behavioral stimuli; (d) the psychologic adaptation of the recipient to organ transplantation; (e) the role of educational programs designed to influence favorably the attitude of the general population toward organ transplantation; and (f) in the future, the psychologic aspects of xenograft transplantation as an alternative to homograft transplantation.
Voyager 2: More puzzles, more applause

Kinked rings, a hamburger-shaped satellite, and swirling equatorial,storms on Saturn added up to a Voyager 2 encounter dubbed ‘a 200% success’ by project scientist Edward C. Stone. Despite problems with the spacecraft's scan platform, the mission sent scientists scurrying back to their laboratories to sort through a plethora of data, including more than 17,000 photographs, which streamed back to earth from more than a billion miles away. Some early findings, such as the absence of tiny moonlets embedded in the rings, perplexed Voyager scientists; other discoveries, such as detailed information provided by the photopolarimeter on the ring structure, incited wild celebration. Detailed analysis will take months and, for some experiments, years. Here are some preliminary results from Voyager 2's Saturn encounter.
Carcinoma of the cervical stump

This review is a retrospective analysis of 263 patients with carcinoma of the cervical stump treated at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute between 1963 and 1975. Symptomatology, stage distribution, and histology of carcinoma of the cervical stump showed no significant differences from cervical carcinoma of the intact uterus. Depending on the tumor stage, tumor volume, and distorted anatomy, treatment consisted of various combinations of intracavitary radium and transvaginal and external radiation. The 5-year survival was 100% in stage 0, 91% in stage I, 77% in stage II, 46% in stage III, and 37% in stage IV. The results achieved are similar to those in cervical cancer of the intact uterus. The complication rate was 30% and there were 9 (3.7%) deaths related to radiation complications.
USING LABORATORIES IN DISCRETE MATHEMATICS

ABSTRACT The role of algorithms in discrete mathematics continues to grow in importance. It can sometimes be difficult to appreciate the dynamic behavior of an algorithm, given only its static description. We believe a deeper level of understanding about these algorithms is formed by executing them, discovering their properties and modifying them to solve related problems. This paper describes several laboratory activities intended for a discrete mathematics course aimed at mathematics and computer science majors.