cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of nitric oxide and acetylcholine in neocortical hyperemia elicited by basal forebrain stimulation: Evidence for an involvement of endothelial nitric oxide

Abstract We examined the role of acetylcholine and nitric oxide in the increases in cerebrocortical blood flow elicited by stimulation of a region of the basal forebrain from which the major cholinergic projection to the cerebral cortex originates. In halothane-anesthetized rats a 3 × 3 mm area of the parietal cortex was exposed and the site was superfused with Ringer (37°C; pH 7.3–7). Cortical blood flow was monitored at the site of superfusion by laser-Doppler flowmetry. The basal forebrain was stimulated electrically (100 μA; 50 Hz) and stimulated sites were histologically verified at the end of the experiment. With Ringer superfusion ( n = 8), basal forebrain stimulation increased neocortical flow by 185 ± 9% (mean ±S.E.M.). The flow increase was attenuated (−38 ± 6%; n = 5) by superfusion with the muscarinic cholinergic antagonist atropine (100 μM). Superfusion with atropine plus the nicotinic antagonist mecamylamine (100 μM) did not attenuate the response further ( P > 0.05 from atropine alone; n = 6). Superfusion with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor nitro- l -arginine, but not with the inactive isomer nitro- d -arginine ( n = 6), attenuated the vasodilation in a dose-dependent fashion (−43 ± 4% at 1 mM; n = 7) and reduced nitric oxide synthase catalytic activity at the site of superfusion by 95 ± 4%. Co-application of nitro- l -arginine and atropine did not attenuate the vasodilation further ( P > 0.05 from nitro- l -arginine alone; n = 6). Administration of the somewhat selective inhibitor of neuronal nitric oxide synthase 7-nitroindazole (50 mg/kg, i.p.) attenuated the increases in flow produced by topical application of N -methyl- d -aspartate (40 μM; n = 5) or by hypercapnia ( n = 7), but did not affect the vasodilation produced by basal forebrain stimulation ( n = 5) and by topical application of acetylcholine (10 μM; n = 5). 7-nitroindazole reduced constitutive nitric oxide synthase enzymatic activity in forebrain by 72 ± 3% ( n = 8). The data suggest that the neocortical vasodilation elicited by basal forebrain stimulation is, in part, mediated by local release of acetylcholine which, in turn, leads to increased nitric oxide synthesis in endothelial cells.
Burger preparation: what consumers say and do in the home.

Ground beef has been linked to outbreaks of pathogenic bacteria like Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella. Consumers may be exposed to foodborne illness through unsafe preparation of ground beef. Video footage of 199 volunteers in Northern California preparing hamburgers and salad was analyzed for compliance with U.S. Department of Agriculture recommendations and for violations of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Food Code 2009. A questionnaire about consumer attitudes and knowledge about food safety was administered after each filming session. The majority of volunteers, 78%, cooked their ground beef patties to the Food Code 2009 recommended internal temperature of 155°F (ca. 68°C) or above, and 70% cooked to the U.S. Department of Agriculture consumer end-point guideline of 160°F (ca. 71°C), with 22% declaring the burger done when the temperature was below 155°F. Volunteers checked burger doneness with a meat thermometer in 4% of households. Only 13% knew the recommended internal temperature f...
A Wearable Wrap-Around Sensor for Monitoring Deep Tissue Electric Properties

A wearable wrap-around sensor is proposed for continuous measurement of the permittivity of biological tissues deep into the torso (specifically, lung, and heart). The sensor is composed of multiple electrodes (antennas), excited at a single low frequency. A postprocessing technique is applied to the scattering data received by the electrodes to extract the permittivity of the tissues. The extraction process, which suppresses interferences from skin, fat, muscle, and bone layers is important especially with the fact that electrical properties may deviate from one person to another. In addition, the physical layout of the sensor provides the means to excite specific segments in a manner that localizes the extracted dielectric constant. This capability can allow for rudimentary localized imaging of the torso's cross section and different regions of the body using a low-cost portable sensor.
A Virus Related to Clover Yellow Mosaic Virus Found East of the Mississippi River in Verbena canadensis in Florida.

In September 2002, several unthrifty Verbena canadensis ‘Homestead purple’ plants were received at the Division of Plant Industry in Gainesville, FL. Symptoms included very subtle yellowing and distortion or stunting of the younger leaves, symptoms that could be overlooked as a nutritional problem. Symptomatic leaves were ground in phosphate buffer and mechanically inoculated to a variety of plants that included Antirrhinum majus, Chenopodium amaranticolor, Datura stramonium, Gomphrena globosa, Pisum sativum, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Vicia faba, and Vigna unguiculata. These hosts showed symptoms similar to those described for infection by Clover yellow mosaic virus (ClYMV) (3). In addition, the virus systemically infected Arachis hypogaea, Catharanthus roseus, C. quinoa, Nicotiana benthamiana, and healthy seed-grown Verbena × hybrida. No symptoms were seen in inoculated Zinnia elegans, N. glutinosa, N. clevelandii, Lycopersicon esculentum, Cucumis sativus, or Capsicum annuum. However, back inoculati...
A Novel Role for the Adaptor Molecule CD2-associated Protein in Transforming Growth Factor-β-induced Apoptosis *

CD2-associated protein (CD2AP) is an adaptor molecule involved in T cell receptor signaling and podocyte homeostasis. CD2AP-deficient mice develop nephrotic syndrome and renal failure caused by glomerulosclerosis. Here we report that increased transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) expression and apoptosis were present in podocytes at the onset of albuminuria and were followed by depletion of podocytes associated with progressive focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis in CD2AP-/- mice. Conditionally immortalized podocytes derived from CD2AP-/- mice were more susceptible to TGF-β-induced apoptosis compared with CD2AP+/+ podocytes. Reconstitution of CD2AP rescued CD2AP-/- podocytes from TGF-β-induced apoptosis. CD2AP was required for early activation of anti-apoptotic phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 by TGF-β. In contrast, activation of pro-apoptotic p38 MAPK by TGF-β was accelerated and enhanced in the absence of CD2AP. CD2AP was not required for PI3K/AKT activation by insulin and epidermal growth factor, indicating that CD2AP is a selective mediator of anti-apoptotic TGF-β signaling. In summary, we identified CD2AP as a novel mediator for selective activation of survival pathways and repression of apoptosis signaling by TGF-β in podocytes. Together, our in vitro and in vivo findings suggest that TGF-β-induced podocyte apoptosis is an early pathomechanism in mice developing focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis associated with functional impairment of CD2AP.
Development of a personalized decision aid for breast cancer risk reduction and management

Background Breast cancer risk reduction has the potential to decrease the incidence of the disease, yet remains underused. We report on the development a web-based tool that provides automated risk assessment and personalized decision support designed for collaborative use between patients and clinicians.
Interleukin-1α in the Brain Is Induced by Audiogenic Seizure☆

Abstract We examined the expression of the sleep-inducing cytokine interleukin-1α (IL-1α) in the brains of audiogenic seizure-susceptible mice subsequent to the induction of sound-induced seizure. Animal models of epilepsy often require lesioning or trauma that may nonspecifically alter IL-1α expression. To avoid this, we employed the Frings mouse strain; a model of auditory-evoked reflex epilepsy. Frings mice were exposed to a high-intensity sound stimulus to induce a tonic extension seizure, and the expression of IL-1α transcripts in different brain regions was measured thereafter. Compared to control animals, IL-1α transcripts were elevated 6 to 8 h postseizure in the hypothalamus, but not hippocampus, by a dexamethasone-sensitive pathway. Similar results were obtained from the genetically distinct DBA/2J audiogenic seizure-susceptible mouse strain. These findings demonstrate that the expression of IL-1α is altered following generalized seizure activity, induced by noninvasive sensory stimulation, in a brain-region-specific manner.
G- and R-banded prometaphase karyotypes in goat (Capra hircus L.)

SUMMARYPeripheral blood cultures from 16 goats (Capra hircus, 2n = 60) were set up to arrange GTG-, GBG-, RBA-, and RBG-banded karyotypes at the prometaphase state according to the goat RBA-standard karyotype. Only the position of chromosomes 4 and 6, as well as that of chromosomes 25 and 29, were inverted according to the cattle standard and to cattle rob (1;29) p-arms. G-and R-banded ideogrammatic representations of goat chromosomes are also repoted using only one common banding nomenclature.
The role of harmonic functions in dislocation–boundary interactions by the method of images

Abstract We present a theoretical basis for the link between the harmonic functions and the method of images, which was effectively used in Head's analysis [A.K. Head, Proc. Phys. Soc. London Ser. B 66 (1953) 793–801] of dislocation–boundary interaction. We also report the solution of the displacement field of an edge dislocation near a plane surface, and illustrate the profiles of its boundary displacements.
A Theoretical Rumen Fermentation Balance

Summary Certain assumptions are made which permit the calculation of the amounts of CO 2 and CH 4 produced in the rumen which correspond to a given molar distribution of volatile fatty acids present in rumen fluid. This calculation allows the development of a theoretical fermentation balance for a given molar distribution of volatile fatty acids. For a molar distribution of 65 acetate: 20 propionate: 15 butyrate, the following balance is calculated: 57.5 \( C 6 H 12 O 6 \) → 65 acetate + 20 propionate + 15 butyrate + 60 CO 2 + 35 CH 4 + 25 H 2 O The assumptions upon which the calculations are based are discussed, such as considering volatile fatty acids, CO 2 and CH 4 , as sole fermentation products and using the empirical formula C 6 H 12 O 6 to represent fermentation substrate. An attempt is made to evaluate the fermentation balance in terms of known experimental data which bear on product-substrate relationships. Values predicted from the theoretical equation are of the same order of magnitude as experimental values. Application of the balance is made to amplify the interpretation of experimental data concerned with variations in the molar distribution of fatty acids on various dietary regimes. It is proposed that the fermentation balance is useful for interpreting certain quantitative aspects of ruminant nutrition in terms of the quantitative aspects of the rumen microbial fermentation.
Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance study of multiply charged aggregates of small singly charged peptides formed by electrospray ionization

Aggregates of singly protonated peptides formed with a nanoelectrospray ion source have been observed in the gas phase using Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR). Employment of “soft” ion sampling conditions in the source, which were developed previously to generate water clusters of biomolecules, provides significant yields of aggregates of singly protonated GGDPG ([2GGDPG + 2H]2+), GGEPG ([2GGEPG + 2H]2+), and VEPIPY (2VEPIPY + 2H]2+). With peptide mixtures, heteroaggregates, e.g., [GGDPG + GGEPG + 2H]2+ have also been observed along with the homoaggregates. These weakly bound noncovalent complexes undergo facile exothermic dissociation into the corresponding singly protonated monomer species with normal operation of the electrospray ion source. For example, the aggregates were not observed in FT-ICR experiments utilizing a conventional electrospray ionization (ESI) or fast atom bombardment source or with a quadrupolar ion trap mass spectrometer equipped with a conventional ESI source. The formation and metastability of these aggregates are dependent on highly specific intermolecular hydrogen bonding between the monomers. The amino acid sequence (DPG) of GGDPG mimics the well-known β reverse turn of proteins and semiempirical calculations show that it provides excellent hydrogen bonding sites for a protonated N-terminus amino group. Support for this conjecture is provided by the failure to observe aggregate formation of singly protonated peptides with several larger peptides, including hexaglycine and hexaalanine.
Predation and mycophagy by endeostigmatid mites (Acariformes: Prostigmata)

The endeostigmatid mitesAlicorhagia fragilis andAlycus spp. are nematophages. Nematodes are cut up by the chelicerae or ingested whole, but are difficult to recognize as gut contents.Alycus roseus is a strict predator and does not consume microphytes.Alicorhagia fragilis is an omnivore. When nematodes are not available, adult females consume more fungi, but lay significantly fewer eggs, and cultures eventually decline to extinction. Observations of gut contents from 18 genera in ten families indicate that species in the families Terpnacaridae, Grandjeanicidae, Lordalycidae, Micropsammidae, and Oehserchestidae are primarily particulate-feeding fungivores. The families Namorchestidae and Nematalychidae are apparently fluid feeders. Species of Alicorhagiidae are best considered omnivores. In the family Bimichaelidae (=Pachygnathidae)_species with chelate-dentate chelicerae (Alycus, Petralycus, somePachygnathus) are predators of soft-bodied microinvertebrates. Species with attenuate, highly modified chelicerae (e.g.Bimichaelia) have unknown feeding habits. Alicorhagia fragilis spins a silken thread from its oral cavity with which immatures weave a molting cocoon and with which females weave a platform on which their eggs are laid.
Optical Methods for Sensing temperature

Temperature sensing is critical in some special cases. Different optical techniques based on interferometry, fluorescence lifetime sensing, fluorescence ratio method and photothermal deflection techniques will be discussed.
Influence of Viewing Context on the Determinants of Attitude Toward the Ad and the Brand

Abstract Researchers have investigated a number of different antecedents and consequents of attitude toward the ad (Aad), including ad cognition (Cad), brand cognition (Cb), and attitude toward the brand (Ab). The Dual Mediation model (MacKenzie, Lutz, and Belch, 1986) , which specifies hypothesized interrelationships among these constructs, has been well supported in previous Aad research. The authors extend this model to include ad affective responses (Aff), a construct that has received considerable attention in the literature (MacKenzie and Lutz, 1989) , and three additional model paths (Aff→Cad, Aff→Aad, and Cad→Cb). The strength of the various causal links in the extended version of the Dual Mediation model (DMM) are examined across three common types of broadcast media viewing situations: (1) pretest; (2) normal/routine; and (3) buying/decision making. Results indicate a variation in path strength depending upon viewing context, providing theoretical support for predictions regarding the nature of processing inherent in ad and brand attitude formation.
MRA of the abdominal aorta and lower extremities

Atherosclerotic involvement of the aorta and lower extremity vessels is a common clinical problem, especially in developed countries. While x-ray angiography has been the method of choice for preoperative evaluation of patients with atherosclerotic disease, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is emerging as a powerful noninvasive tool that is capable of providing information critical to the care of these patients. The objective of this manuscript is to review the current state-of-the-art of MRA of the abdominal aorta and lower extremity vessels. The techniques are described, the clinical indications for MRA are discussed, and the diagnostic accuracy and pitfalls of the various methods are presented.
Injecting drug use and community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection

To demonstrate that injecting drug use is a major risk factor of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infection and injecting drug users may be a reservoir of CA-MRSA infection in our community, we conducted a matched case-control study. Cases were CA-MRSA-infected patients at University of California, Davis, Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, from December 1, 2003, to May 31, 2004. Two control groups were community-associated methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (CA-MSSA)-infected patients and a randomly selected uninfected patient group in the same hospital. Controls were matched to cases by age and isolate culture date. One hundred twenty-seven CA-MSSA patients and 381 randomly selected uninfected controls were selected to match the 127 CA-MRSA cases. The adjusted odds ratio of injecting drug use compared with the CA-MSSA group was 2.11 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-4.3) and 4.09 (95% CI, 2.2-7.5) compared with the uninfected group. We suggest that injecting drug use is a significant risk factor for CA-MRSA infection, which could contribute to the increasing prevalence of CA-MRSA in an urban community.
Low-level detection of Cryptosporidium parvum in field water using optical microfluidic biosensors

Cryptosporidium parvum is a difficult-to-detect protozoan that causes diarrhea in the healthy adults and death in immunocompromised individuals. While it is easy to understand the transmission routes of Cryptosporidium, it is currently difficult to identify low concentrations of Cryptosporidium, especially when following EPA method 1623, which can easily require tens of liters of water to get a positive signal. The current detection method is unacceptable and severely inefficient when taking into account the time that goes into concentrating a sample, actual assays, and training associated with the assays. Using our method, it is possible to use only 15 μL of sample, which is an immunoagglutination assay that uses Mie scatter intensity changes to detect different Cryptosporidium concentrations. In addition to creating a standard curve using a clean sample matrix (i.e., phosphate buffered saline), field samples were collected from a chlorine treated swimming pool, a sump located on a farm, and a turtle pond. Each sample had different intensity changes but the trend represented within the data was the same. This assay has a detection limit of 100-101 oocysts/mL and can be done in as little as 10 minutes.
Regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors by transforming growth factor-β: Implications for vascular dysfunction in diabetes

Regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors by transforming growth factor-β: Implications for vascular dysfunction in diabetes. Diabetes in its early stages is associated with enhanced glomerular blood flow and systemic vasodilation. Possible consequences of enhanced glomerular blood flow are glomerular hypertrophy, increased shear stress, and subsequent glomerulosclerosis. The prosclerotic cytokine, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), has been well established to play a key role in mesangial matrix accumulation in diabetes; however, its role in regulating vascular tone has not been studied in depth. Earlier studies have demonstrated that vascular smooth muscle cells and mesangial cells pretreated with TGF-β have impaired calcium mobilization to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP 3 ) generating agonists, such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and Angiotensin II (Ang II). We postulated that this action of TGF-β may be caused by regulation of the key intracellular calcium channel, the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP 3 R). Mesangial and smooth muscle cells primarily contain the types I IP 3 R and III IP 3 R isoforms. Short-term exposure of mesangial cells to TGF-β (15–60 min) leads to phosphorylation of the type I IP 3 R at specific serine residues. Long-term exposure of mesangial cells to TGF-β (24 hours) leads to down-regulation of protein levels of both types I and III IP 3 Rs as assessed by Western blot and confocal analysis. Permeabilization of cells and exposure to IP 3 leads to impaired calcium mobilization if cells are pretreated with TGF-β. As an in vivo correlation, we found that streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and mice have reduced renal type I IP 3 R expression. By immunostaining, we found reduction of type I IP 3 R in glomerular cells and arteriolar smooth muscle cells of the diabetic rat kidney. Treatment of diabetic mice with a neutralizing anti-TGF-β antibody completely prevents diabetic glomerular hypertrophy. We conclude that the vascular dysfunction of diabetes leading to glomerular hypertrophy is mediated, in part, by TGF-β-induced regulation of IP 3 Rs.
Effects of Resonant Phonon Interactions on Shapes of Impurity Absorption Lines

A study is made of the interaction of an electron bound to an impurity center in a semiconductor with the phonon field of the material. In particular we study the shift and shape of optical absorption lines of donor impurities in semiconductors when the excitation energy lies close to the energy of an optical phonon branch of the vibrational spectrum of the crystal. The results exhibit a variety of phenomena. The optical absorption lines may be split or broadened either symmetrically or asymmetrically. The different possibilities depend primarily on the dispersion of the phonon bands in the vicinity of the electronic excitation energy. If the phonon energy is approximately independent of the wave number, a splitting of the line arises. Particular emphasis is given to the case of bismuth donors in silicon interacting with transverse optical phonons.
Developing Cases and Scenarios for Anticipatory Learning

Provides background for the use of cases and scenarios for anticipatory learning that require participants to acknowledge and reshape their mental models of the future. Reviews the issues central to anticipatory learning programmes.
Location of the Fourth, Forbidden Factor Group Component of the 1B2u State of Crystalline Benzene

There have been two different experimental techniques used to locate the position of the fourth, forbidden factor group component of the 1B2u state of crystalline benzene. The method of variation of energy denominators gives rise to a very wide exciton band, placing the forbidden Au component at 37 996 cm− 1. More recently, the density‐of‐states function for the 1B2u exciton band has been determined and used to predict that the Au component lies between 37 815 and 37 875 cm− 1. As both of these techniques rely upon the use of first‐order Frenkel theory, their disagreement might be interpreted to mean that a higher‐order theory, perhaps involving ion‐pair states, is needed to explain the experiments. In order to shed more light on this problem, the method of variation of energy denominators is re‐examined in this paper through improved and more extensive experiments. The variation of energy denominators method, which assumes the spectral shift terms to be independent of isotopic substitution, is found to b...
Survey of professional education in ethics in clinical psychology intership programs

Attempted to assess the extent to which clinical psychology internship programs offer professional education in ethical standards. While almost 80% of the programs offer such training, less than half of these provide a formal, systematic, and comprehensive learning experience. Many of the programs only provide a limited exposure to ethical standards that occurs on an informal basis as issues emerge in supervision. All but two of the programs that do not offer training in ethical standards reported that this was the primary responsibility of the clinical psychology graduate school program. The immediate implementation of formal training in ethical standards is needed urgently.
The interactions of inositol hexaphosphate with Fe(III) and Cr(III). A calorimetric investigation. XV

Abstract The complexation of Fe(III) and Cr(III) with inositol hexaphosphate (phytic acid) has been studied by calorimetry. The reactions were examined at metal ion: phytate mol ratios 1 and 4, in the instance of Fe(III), and 4 only in the case of Cr(III), The heats of reactions were endothermic within these mol ratios. Precipitation occurred in each instance of the Fe(III)-phytate reactions. From measurements of the remaining Fe(III) and phytic acid concentrations, it was calculated that 4.1 mol Fe(III) bind per mol precipitated phytate at initial mol ratio 4:1. In a similar manner it was found at the initial, lower mol ratio of 1:1 that 3.5 Fe(III) bind per mol precipitated phytate. The heats of precipitations (which include binding, solvation changes, etc.) of the Fe(III)-phytate reactions were approximately 16 kcal mol −1 . This value is substantially smaller than those obtained for most previously investigated metal ion-phytate precipitation reactions. Possible reasons for the lower heat of precipitation of the Fe(III)-phytate reaction are discussed. The Cr(III)-phytate reactions were investigated under conditions in which both soluble and insoluble complexes formed. Certain complications, which are detailed, existed in these studies. An unusually large value, i.e., 81 kcal mol −1 , was obtained for the heat of precipitation of the insoluble Cr(III)-phytate complex. Due to the above mentioned complications, this enthalpy of precipitation, together with the experimentally determined value of 11.5 mol Cr(III) per mol phytic acid precipitated, are subject to considerable uncertainty. On the basis of the present, and previously reported results (reference 12), it is proposed that Al(III) has a greater affinity for phytic acid than does Fe(III), which in turn exhibits a greater affinity than does Cr(III).
Modeling and generating input processes

This tutorial paper provides information relevant to the selection and generation of stochastic inputs to simulation studies. The primary area considered is multivariate but much of the philosophy at least is relevant to univariate inputs as well.
Our educational mission

It is imperative that the Earth-sciences community engage an educational mission with the same vigor that we pursue other scholarly endeavors; otherwise, we are in danger of eating our own seed corn. A common public perception exists that the Earth sciences are “soft sciences” compared with other physical and life sciences. This may be due in part to the interdisciplinary nature of our many activities. However, it is in this broad-based approach that our collective strength lies, particularly as we apply the “pure” sciences to complex natural systems. Our contributions are even more evident when applied to topical scientific issues affecting society.
Understanding the meaning of collaboration in the supply chain

Despite its infancy, some authors are already suggesting that the writing may be on the wall for supply chain collaboration. It has been reported that supply chain collaboration has proved difficult to implement; there has been an over‐reliance on technology in trying to implement it; a failure to understand when and with whom to collaborate; and fundamentally a lack of trust between trading partners. This paper proposes that a supply chain segmentation approach, based on customer buying behaviour and service needs, is the most appropriate context for collaboration. The paper also proposes the need for a greater understanding of the elements that make up supply chain collaboration, and in particular how the relevant cultural, strategic and implementation elements inter‐relate with each other.
The nonlinear two-stage least-squares estimator

In this paper we consider estimation of the parameters of a single equation of a simultaneous equations model which is nonlinear both in variables and paarmeters. Such a model has never been analyzed in the literature to the best of our knowledge. Models in which the nonlinearity appears only in variables or only in parameters have been previously considered. For the former case see Kelejian (1971) and other references cited in Goldfeld and Quandt (1972), and for the latter case see, for example, Zellner, Huang and Chau (1965.) We define the nonlinear two-stage least-squares estimator (NL2SLS) for our model and derive its asymptotic distribution. Our estimator reduces to the NL2SLS of Kelejian if the nonlinearity exists only in variables, to the NL2SLS of Zellner and others if the nonlinearity exists only in parameters, and to the usual 2SLS estimator if the regression function is linear both in variables and parameters. We show that the well-known optimality properties of 2SLS extend to NL2SLS in the model that is linear in variables and nonlinear in parameters. The question of whether they extend to NL2SLS in the general nonlinear model is left for further study.
SU-FF-T-145: Finding the Optimal Digitizer for Use with Gafchromic EBT Film

Purpose: When performing a QA procedure using film the accuracy of the calculated dose is dependant on the digitizer. The ideal digitizer would have high sensitivity, density stability and uniformity. Our goal is to find the best scanner for use with the newly introduced Gafchromic EBT film. Method and Materials: We first exposed the EBT and EDR2 films to IMRT patterns with a maximum dose of 200cGy and generated a calibration film, which consists of 26 dose steps from near zero to 250cGy. The films were scanned on our Vidar Dosimetry Pro, as well as two Epson and two Microtek flatbed scanners. Film dosimetry software was used to analyze the films, by comparing the generated dose maps from EBT films to EDR2 films. Results: In comparison we found that the EBT film performed best on the Epson scanners and yielded a sensitivity 1.5 times greater than the Vidar, due to the film's absorption peak matching the red color channel of the Epson. Microtek's sensitivity equals the Epson, but noise levels are up to 5% compared to 1% on the Epson and Vidar. In comparing EBT to EDR2 we found there is no difference when scanned on the Epson or Microtek, but the Vidar showed high dose levels to be 8% lower with EBT due to a large point spread function altering the calibration curve. Comparing scanners shows that the noise level in dose is reduced on the Epson by 1.5 with EBT over the Vidar, while EDR2 remains the same and equal to the EBT on Epson. Microtek yields noise up to five times greater than the Epson. Conclusion: Digitizing on the Epson scanners utilizing the red color channel yields the best results. Similar results are attainable if an average scanning technique is utilized with Microtek scanners.
Hot-electron induced defect generation in AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors

Abstract Hot-carrier effects in gated AlGaN/GaN based high electron mobility transistors are studied by microwave noise temperature spectroscopy. Electron temperature profiles are measured and correlated to defect generation in the AlGaN/GaN channel interface. It is found that new defects are created at the AlGaN/GaN interface due to hot-electrons which are fairly well confined to the channel under the gated part.
A study of T-burner behavior.

An experimental study is described in which detailed oscillatory-pressure measurements were made in a single-ended T-burner, i.e., a T-burner with propellant being burned in only one end. The acoustic behavior in this system was found to be greatly different from any previous description of the behavior. Most significantly, the oscillatory-pressure amplitude was found to be lower by a factor of 0.45 at the burning surface than at the opposite end of the motor. In addition, the oscillatory envelopes exhibited very unusual, but reproducible, behavior. These characteristics cannot be explained analytically if the normal assumptions are employed. They can be explained if the mean temperature varies along the length of the motor, but only if the temperature distribution has a specific character. The temperature distribution must approximate two regions of uniform temperature separated by a discontinuity, with the gas temperature in the nonburning end of the motor near ambient. Although the actual temperature distribution has not been determined, the existence of such a distribution is regarded as not unlikely. Calculations show that the oscillatory growth constant can be significantly altered by such a temperature distribution. The results of this work indicate important effects that must be considered in various kinds of T-burner measurements.
Quantification of left atrial volume using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging: comparison of left atrial volume index measurements using the Simpson's and bi-plane area-length methods

Background Increased left atrial volume index (LAVI) has been shown to be an independent predictor of hard cardiovascular events. It can be determined by calculating left atrial (LA) volume through the use of either Simpson’ sm ethod or area-length method and indexing it to body surface area (BSA). Although there is no standardized method of calculating LA volume using Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMR), the aforementioned methods, which were originally validated for 2-dimensional echocardiography, have been used. We sought to assess the agreement between LAVI, obtained with the use of cardiac gated steady state free precession cine pulse sequence of contiguous short axis slices (LAVI1) and area-length method (LAVI2). Methods
Factors influencing male mating behaviour in Gambusia affinis (Baird & Girard) with a coercive mating system

The effects of male and female body size, and correlated characteristics, on male mating behaviour were investigated in the western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis. Because larger females typically have larger broods in Gambusia sp., it was predicted that males would attempt more copulations with larger females. Two-way ANOVA showed that female body size was a significant predictor of male mating behaviour but male size was not. The effects of a suite of additional traits (both male and female) on male mating attempts were also tested. In a stepwise multiple regression, female standard length (LS), size of the female gravid spot and male testes mass were significant predictors of male mating attempts, accounting for c. 27% of variation in male mating. Path analysis showed that differences between male and female LS, male body condition and male testes mass were significant predictors of male mating attempts, and also accounted for 27% of the variation in male mating attempts. The two statistical models were very similar in their predictive power, but differed slightly in significant predictor variables. Results confirm that factors other than female size are important predictors of male mating behaviour in the western mosquitofish.
The development of depressive encoding dispositions: A case of self-perpetuation of biases ☆

Abstract Previous research has demonstrated that stimuli can be encoded as supportive of preexisting encoding categories, even if the categories do not match the stimuli perfectly. Such biased encoding may become a source of a perceiver's subjective experiences that are supportive of the preexisting encoding rules. Via this mechanism, encoding rules may develop in a self-perpetuating manner, even in the absence of any objectively supportive evidence. It is proposed in the present research that in depressed individuals the process of self-perpetuation can contribute to the maintenance and development of encoding categories that involve negative information, thus perpetuating “depressive” encoding. In the learning phase of the study, subjects were exposed to a series of stimulus persons containing a nonsalient covariation between a facial feature and either a negative or positive characteristic. In the testing phase, subjects rated a sequence of new faces which did not contain any information supportive of the covariation. As predicted, the influence of the newly acquired encoding rule (covariation) on subjects' judgments gradually increased over time, and this effect was more pronounced for the negative characteristic in individuals with above median depression (Beck Depression Inventory) scores. These results suggest a mechanism by which depressive encoding rules may self-perpetuate.
Complementary use of passive and active remote sensing for detection of penetrating convection from CloudSat, CALIPSO, and Aqua MODIS

[1] The study examines penetrating deep convection (PDC), that reach ∼14 km (PDC14) and ∼17 km (PDC17), using 1 year of colocated CloudSat, CALIPSO, and Aqua-MODIS observations. The combination of multisensory and multispectral observations is used to examine how well PDC14(17) are captured using cold cloud features (CCFs), defined as groupings of 1 km MODIS pixels with ∼11μm brightness temperature (BT) less than or equal to 210 K and 235 K and positive brightness temperature differences (+BTD) between ∼6.7 μm (BT6.7) and ∼11 μm (BT11). Cross-comparison of PDC14 with CCFs ≤ 210 K and +BTD signatures according to date, time, and geolocation show that within the tropics 61% (55%) of CCFs ≤ 210 K (+BTD) occur as PDC14. In the case of CCFs ≤ 210 K, ∼27% of the PDC14 distribution also occur as cold altostratus/anvil clouds. Results show that 50–59% of PDC14 are large enough to be detected from IR observations with a horizontal resolution of 5 km. Although observations are sampled along CloudSat's narrow swath where CloudSat/CALIPSO and Aqua MODIS observations are colocated, the study provides statistical evidence supporting the use of IR observations to study the long-term temporal and spatial variability of high reaching deep convective cloud activity.
A new electrical to mechanical coupling effect for nonlinear piezoelectric solids

Abstract A new electrical to mechanical coupling mechanism is identified whereby electric field rates across discontinuities in strain are shown to induce strain gradients across the discontinuity.
The United States Registry for Fibromuscular Dysplasia: New Findings and Breaking Myths

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a nonatherosclerotic, noninflammatory arterial disease predominantly seen in women. Most FMD cases are classified as medial fibroplasia, which has the appearance of a string of beads on angiography. Until recently, FMD was thought to be seen in women in their 20s and 30s, with more than 60%-75% of cases occurring in the renal artery and 25% of cases in the carotid artery. Hypertension was regarded as the primary symptom seen in these patients followed by a small number of patients presenting with intracranial aneurysms with subarachnoid hemorrhage. The United States Registry of FMD, a patient registry, has broken many preconceived notions as well as provided more in-depth knowledge of this uncommon disorder. In this review, we discuss the findings of this registry and its use in understanding this disorder. In addition to the registry, we review other recent studies and future directions in the diagnosis and management of this disorder.
Pun Frequency and Popularity of Shakespeare's Plays

Shakespeare's mixing of comedy and tragedy was not popular with his contemporaries. Modern research on emotion, however, indicates that the combination of conflicting arousal sources will increase subjective reaction and, perhaps, audience enthusiasm. To examine this possibility, citation estimates of each play's popularity were compared with two examples each of sexual or intellectual pun frequency counts. Sexual punning frequency did not predict popularity, while increased frequency of intellectual punning accompanied increased tragedy popularity and decreased comedy popularity.
Intracardiac fluid forces are an essential epigenetic factor for embryonic cardiogenesis

The pattern of blood flow in the developing heart has long been proposed to play a significant role in cardiac morphogenesis. In response to flow-induced forces, cultured cardiac endothelial cells rearrange their cytoskeletal structure and change their gene expression profiles. To link such in vitro data to the intact heart, we performed quantitative in vivo analyses of intracardiac flow forces in zebrafish embryos. Using in vivo imaging, here we show the presence of high-shear, vortical flow at two key stages in the developing heart, and predict flow-induced forces much greater than might have been expected for micro-scale structures at low Reynolds numbers. To test the relevance of these shear forces in vivo, flow was occluded at either the cardiac inflow or outflow tracts, resulting in hearts with an abnormal third chamber, diminished looping and impaired valve formation. The similarity of these defects to those observed in some congenital heart diseases argues for the importance of intracardiac haemodynamics as a key epigenetic factor in embryonic cardiogenesis.
The Loss of HIF1α Leads to Increased Susceptibility to Cadmium-Chloride-Induced Toxicity in Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts.

Wild-type and HIF1α −/− MEF cells were used to determine the role of HIF1α in cadmium-induced toxicity. Cadmium treatment did not affect HIF1-mediated transcription but led to caspase activation and apoptotic cell death in wild-type and HIF1α −/− cells. Cadmium-induced cell death, however, was significantly higher in HIF1α −/− cells as compared to their wild-type counterparts. Increased cell death in the HIF1α −/− cells was correlated with lower metallothionein protein, elevated levels of reactive oxygen species, and decreased superoxide dismutase enzyme activity. The total and oxidized glutathione levels, and, correspondingly, lipid peroxidation levels were elevated in the null cells compared to wild-type cells, indicating increased antioxidant demand and greater oxidative stress. Overall, the results suggest that basal levels of HIF1α play a protective role against cadmium-induced cytotoxicity in mouse embryonic fibroblasts by maintaining metallothionein and antioxidant activity levels.
Vertical coupling impedance of the APS storage ring

The three-dimensional wake potentials of the APS storage ring have been reconstructed according to the impedance database concept. Every wakefield-generating component in the ring was considered including small-gap insertion device (ID) chambers, rf cavities, shielded bellows, beam position monitors, synchrotron radiation absorbers, scrapers, flags, various chamber transitions, septum chambers, and pulsed kickers. In this paper the result for the vertical wake potentials and its impedance are presented. Dominant contributors are the ID chambers whose heights are 5 mm and 8 mm. Since more small-gap chambers are envisioned for installation in the APS storage ring, prediction of their effect on the beam is very important not only for the APS but also for all third-generation light sources. We used the vertical impedance reported here to investigate the measured tune slope and single-bunch current limit in the APS storage ring. The program elegant was used for particle tracking, and its results are presented. We also report that we observed a vertical focusing in the calculated wake potential of the shallow transition without rotational symmetry.
The Prehistory of the Crusades: Toward a Developmental Taxonomy

The Crusades are frequently depicted as if they materialized without sufficient antecedence in the late eleventh century. On those occasions when the lines of development that produced this epochal movement are discussed, they are often examined in a piece-meal and non-chronological fashion. The end result is to downplay the important conceptual preconditions necessary for a Crusade and to convey the impression that the endeavor either sprang ‘full blown’ from nowhere or was created on the fly. This article suggests that the components of crusading must be identified and ordered into a type of chronological taxonomy so that the full import of the movement might be understood. While there are numerous, and excellent, histories of the Crusades, I suggest a workable prehistory of this trans-epochal phenomenon is not only desirable, but essential. Borrowing from the well-established field of prehistory, I seek to place the antecedents for crusading into paleo-, meso-, and neo-prehistory categories. In this way the sequential emergence of the preconditions of crusading may better illuminate its eventual emergence.
(Re)Building Catalhoyuk: Changing Virtual Reality in Archaeology

Building virtual models of archaeological sites has been seen as a legitimate mode of representing the past, yet these models are too often the end product of a process in which archaeologists have relatively limited engagement. Instead of building static, isolated, uncanny, and authorless reconstructions, I argue for a more active role for archaeologists in virtual reconstruction and address issues of representational accuracy, personal expression in avatars and peopling the virtual past. Interactive virtual worlds such as Second Life provide tools and an environment that archaeologists can use to challenge static modes of representation and increases access to non-expert participants and audiences. The virtual model of Catalhoyuk in Second Life is discussed as an ongoing, multivocal experiment in building, re-building, and representing the past and present realities of the physical site.
What Counts in the Development of Young Children's Number Knowledge?

Prior studies indicate that children vary widely in their mathematical knowledge by the time they enter preschool and that this variation predicts levels of achievement in elementary school. In a longitudinal study of a diverse sample of 44 preschool children, we examined the extent to which their understanding of the cardinal meanings of the number words (e.g., knowing that the word “four” refers to sets with 4 items) is predicted by the “number talk” they hear from their primary caregiver in the early home environment. Results from 5 visits showed substantial variation in parents’ number talk to children between the ages of 14 and 30 months. Moreover, this variation predicted children’s knowledge of the cardinal meanings of number words at 46 months, even when socioeconomic status and other measures of parent and child talk were controlled. These findings suggest that encouraging parents to talk about number with their toddlers, and providing them with effective ways to do so, may positively impact children’s school achievement.
Template Cross-Linking Effects on Morphologies of Swellable Block Copolymer and Mesostructured Silica Thin Films

Mesostructured silica films were formed from cross-linked poly(d8-styrene-block-2-vinylpy- ridine) (dPS-b-P2VP) diblock copolymer template films by swelling with silica precursor solutions. The mesoscopic and macroscopic morphologies of the resulting materials depended strongly on the extent of P2VP cross-linking. Without cross-linking, extensive rearrangement of the initial 2D hexagonal arrangement of dPS cylinders took place during swelling, leading to wormlike mesostructures. At low extents of template cross-linking, osmotic stresses led to a surface-wrinkling instability with a morphology directed by the anisotropic mechanical properties of the swelled block copolymer mesostructure. At higher degrees of P2VP cross-linking, wrinkling was suppressed, and the composite silica/polymer mesostructures corresponded to essentially affine expansions of the initial template structures normal to the film plane. At low extents of P2VP cross-linking, the mesostructures of the hybrid block copolymer/silica films were preserved during oxidation and removal of the block copolymer template species, leading to stable mesoporous silica films. At high extents of P2VP cross-linking, however, insufficient amounts of silica were incorporated to form stable porous inorganic materials, leading to mesostructural collapse. An intermediate level of cross-linking allowed the preparation of stable mesoporous silica films with structures that closely resembled those of the initial template films.