cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Expanding the taxonomy of adult learner orientations: the Institutional orientation

The purpose of this research was to determine whether or not a hypothesized Institutional orientation existed as a a learner orientation distinct from those previously identified by Houle (Goal, Activity, Learning) and Burgess (Religious). And if it exists, to what extent it played a significant role in determining the participatory behaviour of adult learners in three different adult education institutions (local church, community college, Red Cross). The data obtained from the 30‐item composite instrument (Reasons for participation in learning activities) were submitted to a one‐way ANOVA, the Scheffe‘t‐test and chi‐square analysis. The results indicated that the Institutional orientation does exist as a distinct adult learner orientation. Chi‐square analysis of the data indicated that the church‐sponsored group was significantly different from the other two groups in the degree to which the Institutional orientation of the adults affected participation, and in the reported degree of commitment to the s...
The role of Ischemic ST-segment counterpoise in rendering the response of exercise electrocardiogram falsely negative

Exercise electrocardiogram (ECG) has a high rate of false negative results in comparison with simultaneously performed thallium-201 perfusion scintigraphy, particularly in patients with single-vessel coronary artery disease, low exercise workload, inadequate heart rate rise, and resting ECG abnormalities. We present the case of a patient in whom thallium-201 SPECT scintigram revealed equally extensive and severe myocardial ischemia in two myocardial planes opposite each other. The accompanying exercise ECG did not disclose ischemic changes despite the adequacy of heart rate rise in this patient with severe right and left anterior descending coronary artery disease. We propose, as an explanation for this phenomenon, that in this patient the ischemic ST-segment vectors of equal magnitude and direction but of opposite sense, generated during stress, cancelled each other ("ischemic ST-segment counterpoise"), thus rendering the exercise ECG normal.
Prediction of heterogeneous reactive azeotropes in esterification systems

Abstract This paper develops the conditions for heterogeneous reactive azeotropy and expands the method described in Okasinski and Doherty (A. I. Ch. E J. 43 (1997) 2227–2238) to cover heterogeneous reactive mixtures, enabling the existence and location of both homogeneous and heterogeneous reactive azeotropes to be determined. Esterification reactions of acetic acid with isopropanol, n -propanol, n -butanol, and n -pentyl alcohol are examined. The results for the n -propanol system, portrayed on a bifurcation diagram, indicate the presence of a heterogeneous minimum-boiling quaternary reactive azeotrope at the value of the reaction equilibrium constant reported in the literature. A heterogeneous reactive azeotrope has not been theoretically predicted before for any mixture. This prediction provides an opportunity for new experiments on heterogeneous, reacting mixtures to determine the validity of the prediction.
The composition of bean golden mosaic virus and its single-stranded DNA genome

Bean golden mosaic virus (BGMV) contains predominantly circular single-stranded DNA, but DNA isolation by treating virus with proteinase K results in conversion of the DNA to a linear form. The conversion is inhibited by as little as 0.025% sodium dodecyl sulfate but not by phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride and does not occur when purified DNA is incubated with proteinase K. Protein is not involved in the covalent structure of BGMV DNA; the conversion appears to be caused by an endonuclease that copurifies with the virus and is resistant to proteinase K. BGMV contains a major capsid protein with an estimated molecular weight of 27,400. Two minor proteins are found, even in the most highly purified virus preparations; their origin and role in virus structure or function are unknown. BGMV particles contain 19% DNA; therefore each geminate particle must contain a single DNA molecule, of which over 90% are circular. The estimated molecular weight of the virus is 3.8 x 10(6).
Effect of vasopressin on sodium transport in renal cortical collecting tubules

Effect of vasopressin on sodium transport in renal cortical collecting tubules. Electrical potential difference (PD) and sodium (Na) flux were measured in isolated perfused renal cortical collecting tubules of rabbits. Vasopressin caused a transient increase in PD and net Na flux (lumen to bath), without any change in the back flux of Na (bath to lumen). We conclude that active Na transport is augmented by vasopressin in the collecting tubule, similar to the effect previously observed in anuran membranes.
An MPI-enabled MapReduce framework for molecular dynamics simulation applications

Computational technologies have been extensively investigated to be applied into many application domains. Since the presence of Hadoop, an implementation of MapReduce framework, scientists have applied it to biological sciences, chemistry, medical sciences, and other areas to efficiently process huge data sets. Although Hadoop is fault-tolerant and processes data in parallel, it does not support MPI in computing. The Map/Reduce tasks in Hadoop have to be serial, which results in inefficient scientific computations wrapped in Map/Reduce tasks. In the real world, many applications require MPI techniques due to their nature. Molecular dynamics simulation is one of them. In our research, we proposed a MPI-enabled MapReduce framework for molecular dynamics simulation applications. The MPI module added into Hadoop enables Hadoop to monitor and manage the resources of a Hadoop cluster so that computations incurred in Map tasks can be performed over available resources on the cluster in a parallel manner. We evaluated the proposed framework against a molecular dynamics simulation algorithm, RESTMD, with the application software CHARMM. The experimental results showed that the MPI-enabled framework improves computing efficiency in molecular dynamics simulation.
Familial Cerebellar Degeneration with Slow Eye‐movements, Mental Deterioration and Incidental Nevus of Ota (Oculo‐dermal Melanoeytosis)

Four members of a family with an autosomal dominant form of cerebellar degeneration all had slow eye-movements, i.e. slow pursuit with absence of both nystagmus and rapid saccadic movements. Three showed progressive mental deterioration. One patient had nevus of Ota (oculodermal melanocytosis) and a history of grand mal epilepsy. In these four patients the symptoms first occurred between the ages of 10 and 31 years--the onset apparently appearing earlier with successive generations. Current studies implicate a brain-stem lesion of the paramedian pontine reticular formation in the pathogenesis of the oculomotor abnormality. The possibility of a neurocutaneous syndrome, specifically a 'melanophakomatosis', in the patient with seizures and nevus of Ota is discussed; however, absence of these findings in other affected relatives makes a fortuitous association more probable. The literature on nevus of Ota associated with neurological disease is considered.
A scalable clustered camera system for multiple object tracking

Reliable and efficient tracking of objects by multiple cameras is an important and challenging problem, which finds wide-ranging application areas. Most existing systems assume that data from multiple cameras is processed on a single processing unit or by a centralized server. However, these approaches are neither scalable nor fault tolerant. We propose multicamera algorithms that operate on peer-to-peer computing systems. Peer-to-peer vision systems require codesign of image processing and distributed computing algorithms as well as sophisticated communication protocols, which should be carefully designed and verified to avoid deadlocks and other problems. This paper introduces the scalable clustered camera system, which is a peer-to-peer multicamera system for multiple object tracking. Instead of transferring control of tracking jobs from one camera to another, each camera in the presented system performs its own tracking, keeping its own trajectories for each target object, which provides fault tolerance. A fast and robust tracking algorithm is proposed to perform tracking on each camera view, while maintaining consistent labeling. In addition, a novel communication protocol is introduced, which can handle the problems caused by communication delays and different processor loads and speeds, and incorporates variable synchronization capabilities, so as to allow flexibility with accuracy tradeoffs. This protocol was exhaustively verified by using the SPIN verification tool. The success of the proposed system is demonstrated on different scenarios captured by multiple cameras placed in different setups. Also, simulation and verification results for the protocol are presented.
Computational Evaluation and Linear Stability of a Transonic Laminar-Flow Wing Glove

The Flight Research Laboratory at Texas A&M University has proposed conducting both natural laminar flow and passive laminar flow control flight-test experiments through NASA’s Environmentally Responsible Aviation program in partnership with Dryden Flight Research Center and Langley Research Center. The flight-test program will further explore discrete roughness element technology and demonstrate its effectiveness at extending laminar flow beyond the natural transition location. Texas A&M University completed a wing-glove design, designated TAMU-06-05, that was to be installed on a Gulfstream III testbed aircraft. Detailed analysis on the wing-glove design effectiveness is given, focusing on flowfield behavior and boundary-layer stability characteristics near the glove using full-aircraft computational-fluid-dynamics calculations.
Enhancing osteochondral allograft viability: effects of storage media composition.

Osteochondral allograft transplantation is a well-accepted treatment for articular cartilage damage. However, chondrocyte viability declines during graft storage, which may compromise graft performance. We first tested the hypothesis that the composition of commonly used storage media affects the viability of articular chondrocytes over time; we then tested the hypothesis that the addition of insulin growth factor-1 or the apoptosis inhibitor ZVAD-fmk could enhance the storage properties of serum-free media. Bovine osteochondral grafts were stored at 4°C in lactated Ringer’s, Dulbecco’s modified eagle’s media (DMEM), DMEM supplemented with either insulin growth factor-1 or ZVAD-fmk, and a commercial storage media. Chondrocyte viability in lactated Ringer’s declined rapidly to 20.4% at 2 weeks. Viability in DMEM declined more slowly to 54.8% at 2 weeks and 31.2% at 3 weeks. Viability in commercial storage media was 83.6% at 3 weeks and 44.8% at 4 weeks. Viability was increased in DMEM + insulin growth factor-1 (56.4%) and DMEM + ZVAD (52.4%) at 3 weeks compared with DMEM alone. These results confirm the hypotheses that media composition greatly influences chondrocyte viability during cold storage and that insulin growth factor-1 and ZVAD improve the storage properties of DMEM.
A process-oriented modelling study of the coastal Canary and Iberian Current system

Abstract In a hierarchy of increasing complexity of physical forcing mechanisms, we conduct a process-oriented study of the Northern Canary Current System (NCCS) with a terrain-following numerical ocean model (in this case the Princeton Ocean Model, POM) to investigate the forcing mechanisms for the classical as well as unique features of the NCCS. While most of the NCCS features are realistically simulated, a key comparison of the results shows that unexpectedly a realistic subsurface mesoscale feature is simulated in a flat bottom NCCS model but not in the same model with bottom topography. We then show that this is a consequence of a numerical choice, which leads to the use of an improved technique to smooth the bottom topography, which better preserves the raw topography and subsequently is shown to produce the subsurface feature. This choice is then used in the final and most realistic of the NCCS experiments, in which a high temporal resolution study is conducted from March to September 1996 for the NCCS coastal ocean domain using daily winds and thermohaline forcing initialized on 2 March 1996 from a one-way coupled North Atlantic Parallel Ocean Program (POP) model updated at the lateral boundaries of the POM model every three days. A key physical result is that a dynamic flow consistent with the Azores Current is produced in this experiment, a feature not produced in the other experiments which used climatological data at the open boundaries. The results of these process-oriented experiments emphasize that numerical models of ocean circulation require important choices, which are both numerical and physical.
Investigation of a Novel Microtiter Plate Support Material and Scanner Quantitation of Immunoassays, Proteins and Phospholipids

Abstract A recently developed shallow-well microtiter plate, made from a specially formulated polymer that binds proteins, peptides and nucleic acids rapidly and efficiently, has been investigated for use in solid-phase immunoassays as well as for protein and phospholipid assays. The assay uses quantitation of the color intensity of a dye on the solid phase by means of a simple desk-top scanner coupled to a computer which allows the gray-scale density of the color to be easily and accurately measured. Consequently, this approach is independent of the absorption spectrum of the dye used. These studies demonstrate that the novel technology incorporated into these unique shallow-well microtiter plates has potential in both protein and immunoassays. In the latter case, there are considerable savings in both time and material costs over conventional ELISA methods. The scanning software provided for the solid-phase immunoassay is user configurable for other densitometry assays on different solid matrices and ca...
Explicit and implicit solution of the Navier-Stokes equations on a massively parallel computer

The design, implementation, and performance of a two-dimensional time-accurate Navier-Stokes solver for the CM2 supercomputer are described. The program uses a single processor for each grid point. Two different time-stepping methods have so far been implemented: an explicit third-order Runge-Kutta method and an implicit approximation-factorization method. The CM2 results are checked against those of a mature well-vectorized Cray 2 program, both for correctness and performance. The code is found to be correct, and the performance in some cases is up to several times that of the Cray 2.
Reversal of an operant discrimination by noncontingent discrimination reversal training

Rats who had received extensive training on a free-operant bar-pressing discrimination were given discrimination reversal training with the bar removed and reinforcements noncontingent, and then were tested on the reversed problem with reinforcements again bar press-contingent. In comparison to control groups that, prior to exposure to the reversed-contingent problem, received either no noncontingent discrimination training or noncontingent discrimination training on the unreversed problem, these Ss showed marked transfer (both immediate transfer and savings) from the noncontingent to the contingent reversal problem. This result is related to previous findings and to several possible theoretical interpretations.
The quantitation of fluorescence by photography.

A method based on theory has been developed for the photographic quantitation of fluorescent substances. DNA stained with ethidium in agarose gels is used as an example of an application of this method. In the course of developing this method we have demonstrated that the empirical methods employed by other authors can give rise to large systematic errors. We have also developed an approximate method based on photographic theory, avoiding the use of digital integration which is required by the rigorous method.
Noise and Electrical Characteristics below 10 K of small CHFET Circuits and Discrete Devices

This paper discusses the lates results of a continuing study of the properties of the complementary heterojunction field-effect transistor (CHFET) at 4K. The electrical characteristics, including the gate leakage current and the subthreshold transconductance, and the input-referred noise voltage for a new lot of discrete CHFETs is presented and discussed.
Autism across cultures: rethinking autism

Whereas the autism prevalence rate has been very closely monitored in the United States, the same has not been observed in many other countries. This may be attributed to the fact that each culture views and defines autism differently. Using field notes and semi-structured interviews with family members with an individual with autism, teachers, and professionals in Canada, Nicaragua, and Korea, this paper illustrates how autism is socially differently constructed in these distinctively different cultures. Observing and experiencing what autism means in different cultures urge us to accept and appreciate individual differences or ‘differ-bilities’ in the diverse twenty-first century.
Enthalpies of formation of selected Co2YZ Heusler compounds

Abstract Standard enthalpies of formation at 298 K of selected ternary Co2-based Heusler compounds Co2YZ (Y = Fe, Hf, Mn, Ti, V, Zr; Z = Al, Ga, In, Si, Ge, Sn) were measured by high temperature direct synthesis calorimetry. The measured enthalpies of formation (in kJ/mole of atoms) of the L21 compounds are: Co2FeGa (−25.8 ± 2.6); Co2FeSi (−38.4 ± 2.2); Co2FeGe (−11.6 ± 2.1); Co2MnGa (−30.1 ± 2.3); Co2MnSi (−42.4 ± 1.2); Co2MnGe (−31.6 ± 3.0); Co2MnSn (−15.6 ± 2.8); Co2TiAl (−55.0 ± 3.7); Co2TiGa (−54.2 ± 2.6); Co2TiSi (−61.4 ± 1.7); Co2TiGe (−59.3 ± 3.8); Co2TiSn (−38.4 ± 2.0); Co2VGa (−28.4 ± 1.1) and for the B2 compounds: Co2FeAl (−22.5 ± 2.5), Co2MnAl (−27.6 ± 2.7). Values are compared with those from first principles calculation when available and the extended semi-empirical model of Miedema. Trends in enthalpy of formation with element atomic number are discussed. Lattice parameters of the compounds with L21 structure are determined by X-ray diffraction analysis.
Marriage Education in the Army: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial.

Although earlier studies have demonstrated promising effects of relationship education for military couples, these studies have lacked random assignment. The current study evaluated the short-term effects of relationship education for Army couples in a randomized clinical trial at two sites (476 couples at Site 1 and 184 couples at Site 2). At both sites, participant satisfaction with the program was high. Intervention and control couples were compared on relative amounts of preintervention to postintervention change. At Site 1, not all variables showed the predicted intervention effects, although we found significant and positive intervention effects for communication skills, confidence that the marriage can survive over the long haul, positive bonding between the partners, and satisfaction with sacrificing for the marriage or the partner. However, at Site 2, we found significant and positive intervention effects for communication skills only. Possible site differences as moderators of intervention effec...
Theory, Design and Measurement of the Brookhaven Narrow Quadrupoles

A novel approach is presented which results in mechanically simple quadrupoles producing high field gradients with modest power consumption and with very small aberrations. These lenses can be assembled either in four-fold geometrically symmetrical versions or in narrow "septum" versions without side yokes. The asymmetrical version conserves the very valuable space available for small angle secondary beams. There is no deterioration of optical properties since the four-fold magnetic symmetry is maintained in the aperture region. In addition, the fringing field is quite small. A unique magnet profile was adopted. Most general purpose iron quadrupoles are derived from the concept of four identical hyperbolic pole profiles which are quadrupole equipotentials. However, for a practical design this geometry must be severely distorted to provide space for reasonable current density coils. The present conceptual approach is to abandon the hyperbolic idea completely and treat the problem from the viewpoint of its four-fold symmetry which permits only r2 sin 2?, r6 sin 6?, r10 sin 10?, etc., potential terms. Since these terms increase as the fourth power in their spatial variations, their magnitudes can be separately controlled with properly chosen physical perturbations. Using this method a quadrupole of high optical purity was produced employing a simple iron profile composed only of plane surfaces.
Giant tunable optical dispersion using chromo-modal excitation of a multimode waveguide

The ability to control chromatic dispersion is paramount in applications where the optical pulsewidth is critical, such as chirped pulse amplification and fiber optic communications. Typically, devices used to generate large amounts (>100 ps/nm) of chromatic dispersion are based on diffraction gratings, chirped fiber Bragg gratings, or dispersion compensating fiber. Unfortunately, these dispersive elements suffer from one or more of the following restrictions: (i) limited operational bandwidth, (ii) limited total dispersion, (iii) low peak power handling, or (iv) large spatial footprint. Here, we introduce a new type of tunable dispersive device, which overcomes these limitations by leveraging the large modal dispersion of a multimode waveguide in combination with the angular dispersion of diffraction gratings to create chromatic dispersion. We characterize the device’s dispersion, and demonstrate its ability to stretch a sub-picosecond optical pulse to nearly 2 nanoseconds in 20 meters of multimode optical fiber. Using this device, we also demonstrate single-shot, time-wavelength atomic absorption spectroscopy at a repetition rate of 90.8 MHz.
Mid-term results of endovascular coiling of wide-necked aneurysms using double stents in a Y configuration.

Background Double stenting in a Y configuration may be used to treat a subset of wide-necked aneurysms not amenable to reconstruction with a single stent. Objective We studied the feasibility, safety, and mid-term angiographic outcome of patients treated using this technique. Methods A retrospective review was undertaken of all coil embolizations of wide-necked aneurysms using double stents in a Y configuration. Results Nineteen patients were identified from 2002 to 2010 (14 women, 5 men) with a mean age of 57.4 years. Stents were deployed in a Y configuration achieving complete occlusion (5/19), residual neck (5/19), and residual aneurysm filling (9/19). Angiographic follow-up was available for a mean of 16 months, and clinical follow up was available for a mean of 21.4 months. The incidence of complications at the initial treatment was 6 of 19 (31.6%), and delayed thromboembolic complications occurred in 2 of 19 (10.5%). An angiographic neck recurrence requiring retreatment developed in only 1 of the patients in whom complete occlusion was obtained with the initial treatment. Spontaneous thrombosis and complete occlusion on follow-up imaging were found in 6 patients in whom initial neck or aneurysm filling was observed. Ultimately, 12 of the aneurysms (63.2%) were completely occluded on follow-up angiography. Conclusion Y-stent reconstruction enables the endovascular management of otherwise complex, wide-necked cerebral aneurysms and can be performed safely in experienced hands with satisfactory mid-term results, even in cases requiring retreatment.
Increased GAD expression in the striatum after transient cerebral ischemia.

Abstract Striatum is one of the brain regions that are highly sensitive to transient cerebral ischemia. Most of the striatal neurons die shortly after ischemia but interneurons including large aspiny (LA) neurons survive the same insult. Previous studies have shown that inhibitory synaptic transmission is enhanced in LA neurons after ischemia. The present study is aimed at revealing the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon. Immunohistochemical studies and Western blotting were performed to examine the expression of glutamic decarboxylase (GAD), the key enzyme in the synthesis of GABA, in the striatum. GAD65 expression and the number of GAD67-positive cells were increased after ischemia. GAD67-positive cells in the striatum co-expressed GAD65 after ischemia. The increase of GAD67-positive cells did not result from neurogenesis. Double-labeling of GAD67 and SOM indicates that some of the GAD67-positive cells are from the phenotypic shift of pre-existing somatostatin (SOM)-containing GABAergic interneurons after ischemia. Facilitation of inhibitory synaptic transmission by muscimol, a specific GABA A receptor agonist, increased the number of survived cells in the striatum after ischemia. Altogether, these data suggest that GAD expression is increased in the striatum after ischemia, which might contribute to the facilitated inhibitory synaptic transmission and the consequent survival of LA neurons.
Dimensionally stable semilattices

A compact locally connected topological semilattice of finite dimension has no homomorphic images of larger dimension.
A Concurrent Transmission Control Protocol

Concurrent transfer is a feasible solution to improve the efficiency and reliability of data communication. In this study, we developed a Concurrent Transmission Control Protocol (cTCP), which is based on the TCP but allows concurrent multi-path transfer. Our cTCP effectively minimizes the impact of packet reordering problem under concurrent transfer. Our experimental result confirms that the cTCP can achieve theoretical optimal or a near optimal performance.
Neutron resonance spectroscopy. XII. The separated isotopes of W

The results of neutron resonance time-of-flight spectroscopy measurements using the Nevis synchrocyclotron are given for the separated W isotopes (182, 184, 186) and for natural W. Almost all s levels were observed to 2.65 keV, and resonance (g) GAMMA /sup o//sub n/ values are presented to ~ 16 keV for thc above even isotopes, and to 700 eV and 2.6 keV, respectively, for / sup 183/W. The /sup 183/W level assignments were fro m levels in natural W which were not assigned to the other isotopes. A Bayes's theorem analysis shows that nearly all of the observed levels are s rather than p levels, since W is at a maximum for the s strength function S/sub o/ but not for Si, and the level detection sensitivity was not sufficient to deteet other than exceptionally strong p levels. We were able to assign J values to 14 s levels of /sup 183/W. The 41 observed /sup 182/W levels to 2.65 keV and the 52 /sup 187/W levels to 701 eV seem to be pure complete s populations, being fitted excellently by the Wigner nearest neighbor spacing theory and the Porter-Thomas reduced neutron width distribution. The orthogonal ensemble (OE) theory was foundmore » to be in good agreement with the /sup 182/W and /sup 183/ data. The /sup 184/W level set to ~ 2.6 keV also seems to be an essentially complete, pure, s population sample. While it agreed within statistical limits to the above statistical theories, it gave poorer discrimination against altemate theories. Tests suggested that a few s levels in /sup 186/W had been missed to ~ 2.6 keV. The 10/sup 4/S/sub o/ values are 2.40 plus or minus 0.31, 1.65 plus or minus 0.32, 2.35 plus or minus 0.24, an d 2.23 plus or minus 0.27 for 182, 183, 184, and 186, respectively. The values for s populations are 66.3 plus or minus 3.2 eV (182), 13.2 plus or minus 0.7 eV (183), 81.3 plus or minus 5.1 eV (184), and 90 plus or minus 7 eV (186). A useful and accurate method for evaluating the Doppler-broadening integrals is described. (auth)« less
Orientation of the Manubrium Mallei: Inexplicably Widely Variable

Background: There is no consensus why the manubrium of the malleus, as viewed clinically through the external ear canal, generally points downward and posteriorly. Objectives: To depict the alignment of the handle of the malleus, viewed clinically through the external auditory canal, relative to the zygomatic arch, the Frankfort plane, and a visual plane proxy and relative to the horizontal semicircular canal. Also, to assess bilateral symmetry and manubrium alignment relative to mastoid pneumatization. Study Design: Postmortem anatomic dissection of 41 bequeathed adult crania without clinical otitis. Methods: The line of the manubrium as viewed through the external ear canal was measured relative to the Frankfort plane, to a proxy of the visual plane, and to the zygomatic arch. Mastoid sizes were determined radiographically. In a subset of 10 crania additionally studied by computed tomography, the manubrium position was checked relative to the horizontal semicircular canal. Results: Relative to the zygomatic arch and Frankfort and visual planes, the range of manubrium angles was at least 45 degrees. Bilateral symmetry was found, each r 0.38 or greater (P < .05). Relative to the horizontal canals, the range of manubrial angles was 30 degrees, with symmetry suggested. Alignment did not correlate with mastoid pneumatization. Conclusion: Manubrium orientation as viewed through the external auditory canal is not obviously explicable. The wide variety of manubrium orientations may explain the manubrium-stapes offset that perplexes manubrium-stapes surgical constructions.
A Universal Framework for Analysis of Self-Replication Phenomena

In this paper, we propose definitions for a general, domain-independent concept of replicability and specifically focus on the notion of self-replication. We argue that selfreplication should not be viewed as a binary property of a system, but rather as a continuously valued property of the interaction between a system and its environment. This property, selfreplicability, represents the effect of the presence of a system upon the future presence of similar systems. We demonstrate both analytical and computational analysis of self-replicability for four distinct systems involving both discrete and continuous, formal and physical behaviors.
Cluster shape anisotropy in irreversibly aggregating particulate systems.

The results for cluster shape anisotropy over a broad range (10-3−10-1) of monomer volume fractions, fv values, are presented for both two- (2d) and three-dimensional (3d) simulations of diffusion-...
Engineering novel detectors and sensors for MRI

Increasing detection sensitivity and image contrast have always been major topics of research in MRI. In this perspective, we summarize two engineering approaches to make detectors and sensors that have potential to extend the capability of MRI. The first approach is to integrate miniaturized detectors with a wireless powered parametric amplifier to enhance the detection sensitivity of remotely coupled detectors. The second approach is to microfabricate contrast agents with encoded multispectral frequency shifts, whose properties can be specified and fine-tuned by geometry. These two complementary approaches will benefit from the rapid development in nanotechnology and microfabrication which should enable new opportunities for MRI.
Levamisole enhances the rewarding and locomotor-activating effects of cocaine in rats.

Abstract Background The Drug Enforcement Agency estimates that 80% of cocaine seized in the United States contains the veterinary pharmaceutical levamisole (LVM). One problem with LVM is that it is producing life-threatening neutropenia in an alarming number of cocaine abusers. The neuropharmacological profile of LVM is also suggestive of an agent with modest reinforcing and stimulant effects that could enhance cocaine's addictive effects. Methods We tested the hypothesis that LVM (ip) enhances the rewarding and locomotor stimulant effects of cocaine (ip) using rat conditioned place preference (CPP) and locomotor assays. Effects of LVM by itself were also tested. Results LVM (0–10 mg/kg) produced CPP at 1 mg/kg ( P P P > 0.05); however, the combination of LVM and cocaine produced enhanced CPP compared to saline or either drug by itself ( P P P > 0.05). Conclusions LVM can enhance rewarding and locomotor-activating effects of low doses of cocaine in rats while possessing modest activity of its own.
Determination of Maximum Tolerated Dose and Toxicity of Inauhzin in Mice.

Reactivating the tumor suppressor p53 offers an attractive strategy for developing cancer therapy. We recently identified Inauhzin (INZ) as a novel non-genotoxic p53-activating compound. To develop INZ into a clinically applicable anticancer drug, we have initiated preclinical toxicity studies. Here, we report our study on determining the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of INZ analog, Inauhzin-C (INZ (C)), following intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration (Phase A) and its toxicity following i.p. administration over a period of 5-day dosing plus 2-day recovery (Phase B) in CD-1 mice. The Phase A study showed that the MTD of INZ (C) is 200 mg/kg for female and 250 mg/kg for male, respectively. The Phase B study showed that the administration of INZ (C) via 5-day consecutive i.p. injection is tolerated by female CD-1 mice at all dose levels tested from 50 mg/kg to 120 mg/kg without significant changes in biochemical and pathological parameters in the animals. Together, these results indicate that our previously determined effective dose of INZ at 30–60 mg/kg via i.p. is quite safe to mice, and imply that this compound have the features worthy for further development into a clinically applicable drug.
Prestimulus frontal-parietal coherence predicts auditory detection performance in rats

Electrophysiology in primates has implicated long-range neural coherence as a potential mechanism for enhancing sensory detection. To test whether local synchronization and long-range neural coherence support detection performance in rats, we recorded local field potentials (LFPs) in frontal and parietal cortex while rats performed an auditory detection task. We observed significantly elevated power at multiple low frequencies (<15 Hz) preceding the target beep when the animal failed to respond to the signal (misses), in both frontal and parietal cortex. In terms of long-range coherence, we observed significantly more frontal-parietal coherence in the beta band (15–30 Hz) before the signal on misses compared with hits. This effect persisted after regressing away linear trends in the coherence values during a session, showing that the excess frontal-parietal beta coherence prior to misses cannot be explained by slow motivational changes during a session. In addition, a trend toward higher low-frequency (<15 Hz) coherence prior to miss trials compared with hits became highly significant when we rereferenced the LFPs to the mean voltage on each recording array, suggesting that the results are specific to our frontal and parietal areas. These results do not support a role for long-range frontal-parietal coherence or local synchronization in facilitating the detection of external stimuli. Rather, they extend to long-range frontal-parietal coherence previous findings that correlate local synchronization of low-frequency (<15 Hz) oscillations with inattention to external stimuli and synchronization of beta rhythms (15–30 Hz) with voluntary or involuntary prolongation of the current cognitive or motor state.
Towards the Conceptual Differentiation of Organisation Development

OD conceptualisation has been criticised as being both underdeveloped and too unduly narrow in its focus. Several ways that OD′s conceptualisation might be enhanced are suggested: on the one hand by differentiating its models and theories in terms of their conceptual level or scope, and on the other hand in terms of an enlarged set of fundamental organisational tasks, different levels of change agent intentionality, and the time frame involved in change. These suggested ways of reconceptualising the theoretic possibilities for OD would move it away from its mostly fix‐it, how‐to, internal problem‐solving image.
Cholinergic nasal hyperreactivity in atopic subjects

Abstract Increased nasal secretions are a fundamental component of allergic rhinitis. In order to analyze various parameters of nasal secretions, a relatively nontraumatic method for collecting nasal secretions was required. A small, flexible rubber catheter connected to a vacuum and inserted 4 cm into the nose proved to be an efficient method for recovering secretions produced from a series of nasal washes. An average of 67% of the washings were recovered and analyzed for protein content. Topical methacholine (5 to 100 mg) stimulated a dose-related increase in the amount of protein secreted with atopic patients demonstrating significantly more responsiveness than nonatopic patients (29.9 times the prechallenge production of protein for atopic patients and 4.8 times for nonatopic patients). Pretreatment with atropine (10 μg) reduced the effects of methacholine in atopic subjects, indicating that the secretory activity was in response to muscarinic receptor stimulation. Therefore, in addition to the array of autonomic abnormalities already recognized in atopic patients, these subjects are also hyperresponsive to nasal cholinergic stimulation.
Cryopreserved saphenous vein allografts in infrainguinal revascularization: analysis of 240 grafts.

Abstract Introduction Cryopreserved saphenous vein allografts (Cryograft; CryoLife, Kennesaw, Ga) have been used as conduit in infrainguinal revascularization when autogenous vein is inadequate or unavailable. Although some studies of Cryografts report poor long-term patency, an anticoagulation protocol may improve outcome. We evaluated our experience with Cryografts to further define their role in lower extremity revascularization. Patients and methods Between March 1992 and March 2002, 240 infrainguinal revascularization procedures with Cryografts were performed in 199 limbs of 177 patients. Eighty-nine percent of procedures were performed because of ischemic rest pain or tissue loss, and 75% of vein grafts were implanted into infrapopliteal targets. Most patients received anticoagulation therapy with warfarin sodium or aspirin, or both, postoperatively. Mean age of the cohort was 78 years; 61% were women; 75% had hypertension, 58% had diabetes, and 38% had renal dysfunction; and 47% were current or past smokers. Results Mean follow-up was 7 months (range, 0-48 months). Primary patency rate was 83% at 1 month, 50% at 6 months, 30% at 12 months, and 18% at 24 months. Diabetes adversely affected graft patency. Warfarin sodium or antiplatelet therapy did not significantly improve graft patency. Limb salvage was 80% at 1 year and 71% at 2 years. Conclusions Cryografts have low primary patency rates that are not affected by anticoagulation with warfarin sodium. Short-term patency of these grafts may be sufficient to heal ischemic wounds and thereby prevent limb loss. However, other less expensive alternatives, eg, prosthetic grafts with vein cuffs, are available and appear to have better patency. Accordingly, use of Cryografts should be limited to revascularization through infected fields in patients without autogenous conduit.
Voltage-gated Na+ current availability after step- and spike-shaped conditioning depolarizations of retinal ganglion cells

We used two conditioning voltage protocols to assess inactivation of voltage-gated Na+ current in retinal ganglion cells. The first protocol tested the possibility, raised by published activation and steady-state inactivation curves, that Na+ ions carry a ”window” current in these cells. The second protocol was used, because these cells spike repetitively in situ, to measure the Na+ current available for activation following spikes. Na+ current activated at test potentials more positive than –65 mV. At test potentials more positive than –55 mV, Na+ current peaked and then declined along a time course that could be fit by the sum of a large, rapidly decaying component, a small, slowly decaying component and a non-decaying component. Both step- and spike-shaped conditioning depolarizations reduced the amount of current available for subsequent activation, sparing the non-decaying ”persistent” component. Most of the Na+ current recovered from this inactivation along a rapid exponential time course (τ=3 ms). The remaining recovery was complete within at least 4 s (at –70 mV). Our use of step depolarizations has identified a current component not anticipated from previous measurements of steady-state inactivation in retinal ganglion cells. Our use of spike-shaped depolarizations shows that Na+ current density at 1 ms after a single spike is roughly 25% of that activated by the conditioning spike, and that recovery from inactivation is 50–90% complete within 10 ms thereafter. Na+ current amplitude declines during spikes repeated at relatively low frequencies, consistent with a slow component of full recovery from inactivation.
CD4 Cell Counts in Human Immunodeficiency Virus—Negative Patients with Tuberculosis

We evaluated 85 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative patients with tuberculosis for clinical features and CD4 cell counts. Thirty-seven patients had low CD4 cell counts (mean +/- SD, 341 +/- 116 cells/microL), and 48 patients had normal CD4 cell counts (mean +/- SD, 830 +/- 254 cells/microL). CD4 cell counts were most strongly correlated with total lymphocyte counts (r = 0.84). If total lymphocyte count was excluded, depressed CD4 cell counts were significantly associated with low serum albumin levels, extensive pulmonary disease, low body-mass index, and low hematocrit. Of these four variables, multivariate linear discriminant analysis revealed that the serum albumin level was the best single predictor of low CD4 cell counts and that the other three variables did not improve predictive value. Because these four variables are markers of severe tuberculosis, these findings suggest that disease severity is associated with greater depression of the total lymphocyte and CD4 cell counts. The CD4 cell counts returned to normal levels in most patients after 1 month of therapy.
Polychlorinated biphenyl exposure alters oxytocin receptor gene expression and maternal behavior in rat model

Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) is a persistent organic pollutant known to induce diverse molecular and behavioral alterations. Effects of PCB exposure could be transmitted to future generations via changes in behavior and gene expression. Previous work has shown that PCB-exposure can alter social behavior. The present study extends this work by examining a possible molecular mechanism for these changes. Pregnant rats (Sprague-Dawley) were exposed through diet to a combination of non-coplanar (PCB 47 - 2,2′,4,4′-tetrachlorobiphenyl) and coplanar (PCB 77 - 3,3′,4,4′-tetrachlorobiphenyl) congeners. Maternal care behaviors were examined by evaluating the rate and quality of nest building on the last 4 d of gestation and dam/pup interactions on postnatal days 1, 2, 4 and 6. On postnatal day 17, dams were euthanized and hypothalamic tissue was removed for expression analyses of the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) and cytochrome P450 1a1 (Cyp1a1). PCB altered nest building and maternal care behaviors. Specifically, the...
Thin-thick coexistence behavior of 8CB liquid crystalline films on silicon.

The wetting behavior of thin films of $4\mathrm{\text{\ensuremath{-}}}n\mathrm{\text{-octyl-}}{4}^{\ensuremath{'}}\mathrm{\text{-cyanobiphenyl}}$ (8CB) on Si is investigated via optical and x-ray reflectivity measurement. An experimental phase diagram is obtained showing a broad thick-thin coexistence region spanning the bulk isotropic-to-nematic (${T}_{\mathrm{IN}}$) and the nematic-to-smectic-$A$ (${T}_{\mathrm{NA}}$) temperatures. For Si surfaces with coverages between 47 and $72\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{nm}$, reentrant wetting behavior is observed twice as we increase the temperature, with separate coexistence behaviors near ${T}_{\mathrm{IN}}$ and ${T}_{\mathrm{NA}}$. For coverages less than 47 nm, however, the two coexistence behaviors merge into a single coexistence region. The observed thin-thick coexistence near the second-order NA transition is not anticipated by any previous theory or experiment. Nevertheless, the behavior of the thin and thick phases within the coexistence regions is consistent with this being an equilibrium phenomenon.
A Multicenter, Prospective, Open Label, Historically Controlled Clinical Trial to Evaluate Efficacy and Safety in Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PID) Patients of Flebogamma® 5% DIF, the Next Generation of Flebogamma®

Flebogamma® 5% dual inactivation and filtration (DIF) is the next generation of Flebogamma®. Flebogamma® was first licensed in 1992. The new preparation features additional viral inactivation and removal steps to enhance safety margins. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of Flebogamma® 5% DIF for immunoglobulin replacement therapy in primary immunodeficiency diseases (PID). Flebogamma® 5% DIF was administered at seven clinical sites to 46 subjects with well-defined primary immunodeficiency diseases at a dose of 300–600 mg/kg every 21–28 days for 12 months. The calculated serious bacterial infection rate was 0.021/subject/year. The incidence of adverse events considered potentially related to Flebogamma® 5% DIF during or within 72 h after completing an infusion was approximately 10%. The half-life in serum of the administered IgG was around 31 days. Flebogamma® 5% DIF is efficacious and safe, has adequate pharmacokinetic properties, is well-tolerated and maintains the profile of Flebogamma® 5% for the treatment of primary humoral immunodeficiency diseases.
FDG PET imaging features of epidermolysis bullosa complicated by squamous cell carcinoma.

Abstract: Epidermolysis bullosa is a group of inherited skin disorders characterized by blister formation after minor trauma and a predisposition to development of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). In some forms of the disease, metastatic SCC is the major cause of death. The FDG-PET imaging findings in a patient with epidermolysis bullosa presenting for staging of lower extremity SCC are shown. The case highlights the presence of abnormal but nonneoplastic glycolytic activity in the skin, lymph nodes, esophagus, and larynx. This activity relates to ulcerations, scarring, erosions, and stricture formation resulting from underlying epidermolysis bullosa disease activity and complicates FDG-PET interpretation for malignant disease.
Empirical Studies of Open Source Software Development

In its third year, the minitrack on Open Source Software (OSS) Development continues to provide a forum for discussion of an increasingly important mode of software development. OSS is a broad term used to embrace software that is developed and released under some sort of "open source" license. OSS development creates new challenges to software development, as team members typically work in a distributed environment and often as volunteers rather than employees. Researchers from a variety of disciplines have turned their attention to the phenomenon of OSS development as a successful and intriguing form of Internet supported work.
Optimal Order of the VLSI IC Testing Sequence

In this paper we introduce a technique which manipulates the order of tests to minimize the length of the testing sequence. Probabilities of fault occurrences which are analyzed in terms of random phenomena inherent in VLSI manufacturing process are used to determine this optimal testing order. Simulation of the PLA testing process indicates that there exist possibilities for the significant improvement in testing efficiency of the actual VLSI circuit.