cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The ecology and economics of insect pest management in nut tree alley cropping systems in the Midwestern United States

The potential ecological benefits of an alternative agronomic practice such as alley cropping are numerous, but the practice is unlikely to be adopted unless it is economically viable. We investigated insect pest dynamics, crop yields, and small farm economics in an alley cropping practice of alfalfa and black walnut compared to conventionally grown alfalfa. We examined the mortality factors affecting alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica (Gyllenhal), under normal monocultural alfalfa management and under an agroforestry practice of intercropping alfalfa with black walnut trees at two alley widths, 12.2 and 24.4 m. Alfalfa yields were determined for three harvest cycles over 2 years in the same system. Black walnut and alfalfa financial models were used to determine the economic viability of alfalfa-black walnut alley cropping based on yield results. We found that alfalfa weevil mortality was significantly higher for two of the four sampling dates in alley cropped alfalfa compared to monocropped alfalfa. Alfalfa yield from wider alleyways was not significantly different from monocropped alfalfa for the first harvest date, but lower thereafter, while yield from narrower alleyways was significantly lower than both wider alleyways and monocropped alfalfa. Financial models indicated alley cropping alfalfa at wider alley widths provided positive cash flow. Our results suggest alley cropping alfalfa with black walnut provides both ecological and economic benefits.
Regulation of pollination-induced ethylene and its role in petal abscission of Pelargonium×hortorum

Pollination in geranium (Pelargonium × hortorum) results in rapid non-autocatalytic ethylene production followed by abscission of turgid petals. In the present work, the regulation of post-pollination ethylene was investigated in various floral organs. Ethylene production and petal abscission increased as the number of stigmatic lobes pollinated increased. Direct application of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) to the stigma induced ethylene production and petal abscission only at high concentrations, which are not naturally present in the pollen. Application of aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG), an inhibitor of ACC synthase activity, to the stigma effectively prevented pollination-induced ethylene production and petal abscission. Pollination increased the levels of ACC 46-fold in stigma plus style tissue and 6-fold in the basal portion of petals. Enhanced accumulation of N-malonyl-ACC (MACC), a conjugated form of ACC, was also observed in stigma and style tissues after pollination. Pollination increased the activity of ACC synthase 2.5-fold in stigma and style tissues and 3-fold in the basal portion of petals. At 2 h after pollination, a 4-fold increase in the expression of the ACC synthase gene GAC-1 was detected specifically in the stigma and style. In vivo activity of ACC oxidase was 1.5-fold higher in pollinated than in unpollinated or wounded stigma and style. In the lower part of the pistil, the activity of ACC oxidase was lower than in the upper pistil, regardless of treatment. The activity of ACC oxidase was significantly higher in the basal portion of petals than the upper portion of petals. Pollination had no effect on the activity of ACC oxidase in petals. Treatment of florets with cycloheximide effectively prevented pollination-induced petal abscission, but ethylene production was completely unaffected, providing evidence for the post-transcriptional regulation of ethylene production. Stigma and style tissues accounted for 57% of the total ethylene production in the flower following pollination. When the stigma and style were removed and the top of the sterile ovary pollinated, there was no pollination-induced ethylene production or petal abscission. We propose that rapid petal abscission in response to pollination results from increased ethylene production, which occurs via activation of ACC synthase primarily in the stigma and style. This contrasts with post-pollination ethylene production in some wilting-type flowers in timing, lack of autocatalytic ethylene and predominantly post-transcriptional regulation.
Continuous Low-dose Interferon-α Therapy for Hiv-related Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Our objective was to examine the efficacy and toxicity of continuous, low-dose interferon-alpha therapy for human immunodeficiency virus-related immune thrombocytopenic purpura (HIV-ITP) in a Phase II clinical trial overseen by a community-based consortium of physicians conducting clinical trials in HIV-related diseases. Sixteen patients with HIV-ITP defined by prospective clinical criteria were enrolled; the majority had failed other therapies for HIV-ITP. Baseline and serial measurements were made of platelet counts, complete blood counts, serum chemistries, platelet-associated immunoglobulin, and CD4+ T-lymphocyte counts; subjective symptoms and bleeding were recorded. Three million units of interferon-alpha 2b were self-administered by subcutaneous injection every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for 16 weeks. Thirteen participants were evaluable for response. One obtained a complete response, eight had partial responses, and four had no response to interferon-alpha therapy. The mean absolute platelet count of the group rose from 15.5 x 10(9)/L at baseline to 47.3 x 10(9)/L at 2 weeks and remained in this range for the duration of the study. CD4+ T-lymphocyte counts and serum chemistries did not change significantly during therapy. Ability to detect platelet-associated immunoglobulin did not change in a predictable manner in relation to platelet count response. Hematologic toxicity was limited to one episode of granulocytopenia, which resolved after a lowering of zidovudine dosage. Subjective toxicities were mild and tolerable, and minor bleeding problems improved in all participants so affected. Low-dose, continuous therapy with interferon-alpha resulted in meaningful increases in the platelet counts of the majority of study participants with HIV-ITP. Interferon-alpha was safe and tolerable for most participants with HIV-ITP at the dosage and schedule employed in this study. Interferon-alpha for clinically significant thrombocytopenia and who have failed to respond to zidovudine.
Synthetic models of the reduced active site of superoxide reductase.

We report the synthesis, structural and spectroscopic characterization, and magnetic and electrochemical studies of a series of iron(II) complexes of the pyridyl-appended diazacyclooctane ligand L8py2, including several that model the square-pyramidal [FeII(Nhis)4(Scys)] structure of the reduced active site of the non-heme iron enzyme superoxide reductase. Combination of L8py2 with FeCl2 provides [L8py2FeCl2] (1), which contains a trigonal-prismatic hexacoordinate iron(II) center, whereas a parallel reaction using [Fe(H2O)6](BF4)2 provides [L8py2Fe(FBF3)]BF4 (2), a novel BF4--ligated square-pyramidal iron(II) complex. Substitution of the BF4- ligand in 2 with formate or acetate ions affords distorted pentacoordinate [L8py2Fe(O2CH)]BF4 (3) and [L8py2Fe(O2CCH3)]BF4 (4), respectively. Models of the superoxide reductase active site are prepared upon reaction of 2 with sodium salts of aromatic and aliphatic thiolates. These model complexes include [L8py2Fe(SC6H4-p-CH3)]BF4 (5), [L8py2Fe(SC6H4-m-CH3)]BF4 (6), a...
Prosecutorial decisionmaking in the Netherlands: A research note

Abstract This analysis of how defendant and/or case characteristics influence the sentencing recommendations of prosecutors in the Netherlands illustrates how these characteristics might be used in the formulation of prosecutorial guidelines. The Netherlands example highlights the power of the prosecutor. It is assumed that the prosecutorial level is where the primary decisions are being made. Perhaps reforms directed toward the prosecutor and based on actual prosecutorial decisionmaking processes might have more impact on this decisionmaking than other kinds of reforms.
On the Cause of Eastern Equatorial Pacific Ocean T-S Variations Associated with El Nino

The nature of observed variations in temperature-salinity (T-S) relationship between El Nino and non-El Nino years in the pycnocline of the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean (NINO3 region, 5(deg)S-5(deg)N, 150(deg)W-90(deg)W) is investigated using an ocean general circulation model. The origin of the subject water mass is identified using the adjoint of a simulated passive tracer. The higher salinity during El Nino is attributed to larger convergence of saltier water from the Southern Hemisphere and smaller convergence of fresher water from the Northern Hemisphere.
Nadaraya-Watson estimator for sensor fusion

In a system of N sensors, the sensor Sj , j=1,2, . . . ,N, outputs Y(j ) ? [0,1], according to an unknown probability density pj (Y(j |)uX), corresponding to input X P ?[0,1]. A training n-sample (X1 ,Y1),(X2 ,Y2), . . . ,(Xn ,Yn) is given where Yi5(Y i (1) ,Y i (2) , . . . , Y i(N)) such that Y i (j ) is the output of Sj in response to input Xi . The problem is to estimate a fusion rule f :[0,1]N? [0,1], based on the sample, such that the expected square error I (f ) = ?[X-f(Y)]2p(Y|X)dY(1) dY(2). . . dY(N)dx is minimized over a family of functions F with uniformly bounded modulus of smoothness, where Y=(Y(1),Y(2), . . . ,Y(N)). Let f* minimize I (.) over F ; f* cannot be computed since the underlying densities are unknown. We estimate the sample size sufficient to ensure that Nadaraya-Watson estimator f satisfies P[I(f )- I (f*)> ?.] ? for any ?>0 and ?, 0<?<1.
Polycrystalline silicon solar cells from recrystallized plasma deposited thin films

Large grain polycrystalline silicon films are produced by a two step process involving plasma deposition of microcrystalline silicon films on a substrate, separation from the substrate, and subsequent grain enhancement of the silicon films. The effects of doping and substrate temperature during deposition on the solar cell conversion efficiency are investigated. Effects of ppm level molybdenum contamination from the substrate, and silicon microstructure after grain enhancement, on solar cell efficiency parameters are also investigated. Solar cells with efficiencies of up to 10.1% under AM1 illumination, were fabricated on these silicon films.
The Growth, Decline and Survival of Small Businesses: An Exploratory Study of Life Cycles*

Using U.S. Census Bureau special tabulations, we follow a cohort of small (single‐establishment) firms formed in 1992 and a cohort of fast growers to 2002 to track their employment changes. Explora...
Colocalization of transforming growth factor-α and a functional epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) to the inner cell mass and preferential localization of the EGFR on the basolateral surface of the trophectoderm in the mouse blastocyst☆

Abstract Results of previous studies suggested that responses of mouse blastocysts to TGF-α/EGF treatment are mediated by EGF receptors (EGFR) located on the apical surface of the trophectoderm (TE). We report here results of experiments using gold-labeled EGF that confirm the presence of these apically located EGFRs. In addition, immunoelectron microscopy (IEM) studies using anti-EGFR antibodies indicate that the receptor is preferentially distributed on the basolateral surface of the TE. Furthermore, the receptor is also present on the inner cell mass (ICM) and is likely to be functional, since treatment of isolated ICMs with TGF-α affects [ 35 S]methionine uptake and incorporation into acid-insoluble material. IEM was also used to demonstrate that EGF, which is not synthesized by the mouse preimplantation embryo, is present in both the oviduct and the uterus. Maternally derived EGF is present in both ICM and TE cells in freshly isolated blastocysts, but is present in greatly reduced amounts following overnight culture of blastocysts in vitro . Last, IEM was also used to demonstrate that TGF-α is preferentially localized to the ICM and polar TE. The co-localization of TGF-α and functional EGFRs to the ICM and polar TE suggests potential autocrine, juxtacrine, and paracrine roles for TGF-α in blastocyst development.
HYPERFRACTIONATED CONFORMAL RADIOTHERAPY IN LOCALLY ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER: RESULTS OF A DOSE ESCALATION STUDY

Purpose: This study was initiated to assess the incidence of chronic complications and histologic and biochemical control following hyperfractioned conformal radiotherapy in patients with locally advanced prostate cancer. Methods and Materials: Between October 1991 and October 1994, 49 patients with locally advanced prostate cancer were entered on the first two dose levels of a prospective dose-escalation study using hyperfractionated three dimensional conformal radiotherapy. The first 25 patients received a minimum tumor dose of 78 Gy to the prostate and seminal vesicles in 6 weeks at 1.3 Gy, b.i.d. No increase in chronic toxicity compared with conventional radiotherapy was noted; therefore, an additional 24 patients were treated to a minimum tumor dose of 82.8 Gy to the prostate and seminal vesicles in 7 weeks at 1.15 Gy, b.i.d. Toxicity was scored according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group morbidity grading scale. Efficacy was assessed through scheduled postradiation prostate specific antigen values and ultrasound-guided biopsies. The median follow-up for the entire group was 20 months. Results: Thy hyperfractionated external radiation was well tolerated with minimal acute morbidity. At 30 months, the actuarial probability of Grade 2 gastrointestinal toxicity was 17%. At 30 months, the actuarial probability of Grade 2 genitourinary toxicity was 16%. There was no statistically significant difference between the two dose levels. No Grade 3 or 4 gastrointestinal or genitourinary toxicity was noted. At 12 months, 84% of patients had a prostate specific antigen ≤ 4; and 53%; ≤ 1 ng/ml. At 12 months, 71% of patients had post radiation biopsies that were either negative (55%) or showed a marked therapeutic effect (16%). Conclusion: The use of hyperfractionated conformal radiotherapy facilitated dose escalation with no increase in chronic toxicity compared to standard doses. The initial tumor response based on prostate specific antigen measurements adn postradiation biopsies is highly encouraging. Based on these results, an increase in dose to 87.4 Gy has been planned according to the schema of this ongoing dose escalation study.
Autism spectrum disorders—A genetics review

Abstract Autism is an etiologically and clinically heterogeneous group of disorders, diagnosed solely by the complex behavioral phenotype. On the basis of the high-heritability index, geneticists are confident that autism will be the first behavioral disorder for which the genetic basis can be well established. Although it was initially assumed that major genome-wide and candidate gene association studies would lead most directly to common autism genes, progress has been slow. Rather, most discoveries have come from studies of known genetic disorders associated with the behavioral phenotype. New technology, especially array chromosomal genomic hybridization, has both increased the identification of putative autism genes and raised to approximately 25%, the percentage of children for whom an autism-related genetic change can be identified. Incorporating clinical geneticists into the diagnostic and autism research arenas is vital to the field. Interpreting this new technology and deciphering autism's genetic montage require the skill set of the clinical geneticist including knowing how to acquire and interpret family pedigrees, how to analyze complex morphologic, neurologic, and medical phenotypes, sorting out heterogeneity, developing rational genetic models, and designing studies. The current emphasis on deciphering autism spectrum disorders has accelerated the field of neuroscience and demonstrated the necessity of multidisciplinary research that must include clinical geneticists both in the clinics and in the design and implementation of basic, clinical, and translational research. Genet Med 2011:13(4):278–294.
The role of radiologists in the American Heart Association: getting the message out

The American College of Radiology and other radiologic organizations are now actively involved in public relations and marketing activities aimed at increasing the visibility of our field to the public, the news media, third-party payers, and governmental agencies
Viral infections and molecular mimicry in type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a disease characterized by inflammation of pancreatic islets associated with autoimmunity against insulin-producing beta cells, leading to their progressive destruction. The condition constitutes a significant and worldwide problem to human health, particularly because of its rapid, but thus far unexplained, increase in incidence. Environmental factors such as viral infections are thought to account for this trend. While there is no lack of reports associating viral infections toT1D, it has proven difficult to establish which immunological processes link viral infections to disease onset or progression. One of the commonly discussed pathways is molecular mimicry, a mechanism that encompasses cross-reactive immunity against epitopes shared between viruses and beta cells. In this review, we will take a closer look at mechanistic evidence for a potential role of viruses in T1D, with a special focus on molecular mimicry.
Sequential Layer Analysis of Protein Immunosensors Based on Single Wall Carbon Nanotube Forests

Electrochemical immunosensors using vertically aligned single wall carbon nanotube (SWNT) forests can provide ultrasensitive, accurate cancer biomarker protein assays. Herein we report a systematic investigation of the structure, thickness, and functionality of each layer of these immunosensors using atomic force microscopy (AFM), quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), and scanning white light interferometry (SWLI). This provides a detailed picture of the surface morphology of each layer along with surface concentration and thickness of each protein layer. Results reveal that the major reasons for sensitivity gain can be assigned to the dense packing of carboxylated SWNT forest tips, which translate to a large surface concentration of capture antibodies, together with the high quality of conductive SWNT forests.
Sequence changes in coliphage lambda mutants affecting the nutL antitermination site and termination by tl1 and tl2

The 17-bp sequence designated nutL is required for the N-mediated antitermination of transcription in the major leftward operon of coliphage lambda. The single-stranded sequence can be folded into a hairpin structure. Ten independently isolated spontaneous lambda nutL- mutants have changes that affect the same nucleotide, located in the loop of the hairpin structure, changing the guanine to adenine, thymine or cytosine. Another mutant (lambda nutL3), selected by a different means, has a deletion of one GC base pair and thus eliminates one C in the stem of the hairpin structure, destabilizing it -11.2 to -2.2 kcal/mol. True reversions of the nutL point mutations restore the guanine. The second-site revertant lambda ninL99 was found to have a deletion of 417 bp between the tL1 terminator and the N gene, removing bases +523 to +939 (counted from SL = +1). This deletion include codons for the six carboxy-terminal amino acids of gene N product, but the fusion allows continuation of translation for 53 additional amino acid residues beyond the truncated N gene before reaching a nonsense codon. The fused N product is active.
Immunological focusing by the mouse major histocompatibility complex: mouse strains confronted with distantly related lysozymes confine their attention to very few epitopes.

The gallinaceous lysozymes are a family of antigens that are distantly related to mouse lysozyme. A T cell-dependent proliferation assay was used to characterize the spectrum of reactivities to lysozyme determinants in B10-congenic mice. Cross-reactivity studies using a panel of species variant lysozymes to stimulate lymph node cells from chicken egg white lysozyme- and ring-necked pheasant egg white lysozyme-primed B10.D2 mice indicated a preferential focusing of T cell reactivity onto a single determinant containing amino acids 113-114. These data, in conjunction with results obtained by priming with cyanogen bromide cleavage fragments of lysozymes, suggested that a site commmon to the L3 region (amino acids 106-129) of all the lysozymes tested was a preferential anchorage site for I region-encoded Ia molecules on H-2d antigen-presenting cells, leading to the limited display of a determinant containing residues 113-114. Priming with L2H (amino acids 13-105), a peptide containing the major epitopes recognized by B10. A and B10 mice, failed to stimulate any T cell proliferation by B10.D2 lymph node cells. Thus, it appears the Ia molecules in any one mouse strain attach to very few sites on lysozyme to effectively display antigenic determinants for T cell activation. This result points to a model of limited determinant selection even on a very "foreign" antigen based upon a shortage of appropriate amino acid residues usable by Ia antigen-presenting structures of a strain.
Implementation of the Gauss‐Jordan method of matrix inversion by spreadsheet macros

Although uses of spreadsheets in CAL need not involve programming, this paper shows that the spreadsheet macro commands, a new kind of higher computer language, may also be used to program for CAL. Examples are shown by inverting a 5 x 5 Hilbert matrix using the Gauss‐Jordan method, and its variety, the method of multiplication and subtraction.
Modifications of CdS nanoparticle characteristics through synthesis in reversed micelles and exposure to enhanced gas pressures and reduced temperatures

Abstract CdS nanoparticles are synthesized in reversed micelles which are then subjected to enhanced pressures of a light hydrocarbon gas. At lower temperatures, clathrate hydrates form, reducing the micellar water content. The particles remain in solution until a critical phase transition pressure. The removal of water leads to an enhancement in particle stability and a resistance to photocorrosion. It is thus possible to prepare CdS particles of various band gap energies and to stabilize these particles subsequently, through a process of water removal and micelle size reduction.
Enhanced expression of insulin receptor substrate-2 and activation of protein kinase B/Akt in regenerating pancreatic duct epithelium of 60 %-partial pancreatectomy rats.

Aims/hypothesis: Early compensatory mechanisms of regeneration following partial pancreatectomy involve ductal proliferation and, subsequently, differentiation into acinar and endocrine cell types, although it is not clear how these processes are regulated. We investigated the expression and roles of insulin receptor substrate-2 (IRS-2) and protein kinase B/Akt (Akt) in pancreatic regeneration that starts with the common duct epithelium using a non-diabetic model of beta cell adaptation and mass expansion, 60 %-pancreatectomy rats.
Utilization of contextual constraints in automatic speech recognition

The use of contextual constraints in speech recognition has been contemplated by many authors. This paper describes a system under development which will perform correction of errors made in a phonemic recognizer by comparison of the received phoneme sequence with the syntax and dictionary of "the language being spoken. The language syntax is stored in a relatively efficient manner, being essentially in Backus-Naur Form. The error correction procedure can best be described as a sequential decoding on the tree of syntax generated by the tables, as traversed by a syntactical parser. The system is currently being implemented in a form such that it will recognize a "spoken FORTRAN" language. Some initial results of its application to certain error-containing inputs are described.
Persistent surveillance using mutually-visible robotic formations

We consider the problem of deploying mobile robots to create a mutually-visible formation between stationary and mobile targets in a known environment. A mutually-visible formation is a placement where each agent or target is connected to all others through a sequence of visibility pairings. Mutual visibility enhances radio communications links, and enables other modalities such as optical communications. We discretize the environment in a manner conducive to visibility calculations, and, as targets shift, we use dynamic programming to find formations that preserve the visibility topology and minimize movement.
Crystallographic engineering in high-performance piezoelectric crystals

Crystallographic engineering, a concept to utilize crystal anisotropy as well as an engineered domain configuration, resulted in significant enhancement in piezoelectric activity for normal ferroelectric BaTiO3 crystals. Electromechanical couplings (k33) approximately 85 percent and piezoelectric coefficients (d33) as high as 500 pC/N, higher or comparable to those of lead based ceramics such as PZT and significantly larger than those of tetragonal BaTiO3 crystals, were detected from crystallographically engineered orthorhombic BaTiO3 crystals. Orthorhombic BaTiO3 phase could be stabilized by Zr-doping at room temperature and enhanced electromechanical coupling (k33) approximately 75 percent was detected also by using crystallographic engineering. Macroscopic symmetry was suggested for poled rhombohedral (3m) and orthorhombic (2mm) crystals, based on the engineered domain configuration.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Tritium and Alpha-Particle Yields in Fast and Thermal Neutron Fission of U 235

The tritium yields per fission for $^{236}\mathrm{U}$ are reported for the reaction $^{235}\mathrm{U}+n$ from thermal energies to 700 keV. In addition, the corresponding $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-particle yields and energy spectra are reported above neutron energies of 170 keV. An increase of a factor of 2.3 to 2.4 in the tritium yield over its thermal value of 0.85 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.09\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}4}$ tritons per fission is observed. No similar change is observed for the $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-particle yields.
Spring Season Colorado Cyclones. Part II: Composites of Atmospheric Moisture and Moist Static Stability

Abstract A composite based on 39 cases of April and May Colorado cyclogenesis is used to examine the moisture distribution and its evolution during the early stages of Colorado cyclones. Moist static stability and its changes are also examined using the Showalter index. In the composite, a narrow tongue of relatively higher surface dew points extends northward on the day preceding cyclone development. This tongue expands and shifts eastward on the following two days. Maps displaying the specific humidity at four levels between the surface and 700 mb reveal that the moisture is mainly confined to 850 mb and below. East-west cross sections of isentropes, normal wind component and specific humidity provide increased vertical resolution, which confirms the concentration of moisture at low elevations. The normal wind component (approximately from the south) shows a diurnal tendency (stronger at night) but also the influence of synoptic male forcing. The strongest southerly winds and northward moisture transpor...
Optimal deployment of third-generation stents: an intravascular ultrasound assessment.

Third-generation intracoronary stents allow deployment at higher pressures, possibly obviating the need for high-pressure postdilations and also possibly reducing restenosis. This study evaluated the ability of the Tristar Coronary Stent System to produce optimal stent deployment as measured by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and quantitative coronary angiography in 46 patients. Optimal stent deployment was defined as minimal luminal area > 80% of the average of the proximal and distal reference luminal areas. After initial deployment, 74.5% of stents met criteria for optimal stent deployment by IVUS, with an average stent expansion ratio of 89.6%. Ten stents (18.2%) were postdilated. Four patients (8.7%) had a major adverse cardiac event, one patient died, one patient had a myocardial infarction, and two patients had target vessel revascularization at 6 months. The Tristar stent system produces optimal deployment without the need for routine postdilation and results in optimal clinical outcomes.
Effects of germanium on the morphology of silica deposition in a freshwater sponge

The effect of germanium on the secretion of siliceous spicules by the freshwater sponge Spongilla lacustris was investigated by exposing germinating and hatching gemmules to varying concentrations of germanium (Ge) in the presence of silicon (Si). Results were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively and demonstrate that a [Ge]/[Si] (= molar ratio) of 1.0 completely inhibits silicon deposition. Intermediate ratios (0.5, 0.1, 0.01) which are permissive to spicule appearance result in fewer, shorter, and thinner spicules, in proportionately fewer microscleres, and in short bulbous megascleres. The size of the bulb increases with increasing [Ge]/[Si], while the length of the bulbous megascleres decreases with increasing [Ge]/[Si]. Microscleres do not demonstrate these graded responses suggesting that they are secreted in an all or none manner. Swellings produced in pond water and bulbs produced in germanium appear to decrease in size with time indicating a spreading of the accumulated silica. The effect of germanium on spicule secretion can be partially explained by its ability to uncouple the growth in length of the axial filament from the growth of the surrounding silicalemma. Under these conditions excess silicalemma is produced in which silica accumulates as bulbs in short spicules. Continuous exposure to Ge is necessary to produce this altered morphology. It is conjectured that the bulbs may be retained due to an inhibition of spreading. which in turn may be caused by the incorporation of germanium into the silica.
Release of [3H] GABA from rat cortical slices: neuronal vs glial origin.

— The effect of L-2,4 diaminobutyric acid (DABA) and β-alanine on the K+ stimulated release of [3H]GABA was examined using a continuous superfusion system in which a carrier mediated exchange diffusion could be demonstrated between [3H]GABA in preloaded rat cortical slices and unlabeled DABA and β-alanine in the superfusion medium. These structurally related amino acids were chosen to investigate the source of releasable [3H]GABA because of evidence suggesting they may have differing affinities for the GABA carrier transport system that are specific for neurons and glia, DABA having a greater affinity for the neuronal GABA system and β-alanine for the glial. Five millimolars-DABA in the superfusion medium nearly abolished the K+ stimulated release of [3H]GABA whereas β-alanine had little effect. The results and conclusions are discussed in terms of a postulated carrier mediated exchange of unlabeled DABA with a specific neuronal pool of [3H]GABA interfering with the K+ stimulated release of the radiolabeled GABA. The results provide indirect evidence in favor of a neuronal pool as the source of releasable [3H]GABA in this system.
The placebo effect on mood and behavior: possible role of opioid and dopamine modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system.

There has been an increasing interest in the placebo effect over the past several decades. The relationship between the placebo effect and the underlying mechanisms of the body that control and maintain health is still not well understood. Significant evidence suggests that endogenous opioids and dopamine are involved in the mechanisms of the placebo effect. The endogenous opioid and dopaminergic systems have been demonstrated to exert effects on the functional activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA system contributes to regulation of mood and behavior. The author suggests that opioid and dopamine modulation of the HPA system is one of the neurobiological mechanisms of the placebo effect on mood and behavior. To elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms of placebo effects and to study the use of placebo in clinical practice to improve health are two important and interrelated tasks. Future studies of the neurobiology of the placebo response may yield interesting and important results.
The effect of voluntary activity on the masseteric silent period duration

This study examined both TMJ and normal groups for any changes in the masseteric silent period with variation of the subjects' occlusal force. An analog meter was used to give each subject feedback on how hard the teeth were clenched together. Five silent periods were elicited at each of the four levels of occlusal force from 40% to 100% of maximum force. Results showed a small decrease in silent period duration for both groups when occlusal force was increased.
Predissociation linewidths and oscillator strengths for the (2-0) to (13-0) Schumann-Runge bands of O2

Abstract Analysis of the absorption spectrum of O 2 in the Schumann-Runge bands ( B 3 Σ u − - X 3 Σ g − ) from the 2-0 to the 13-0 band yields oscillator strengths which are in good agreement with past theoretical calculations. Predissociation linewidths deduced from the data tend to be larger than theoretical predictions for v ′ ≤ 5 and are reasonably near theory for v ′ > 5. The qualitative dependence of the linewidths on vibrational level is in accord with that expected for a repulsive potential intersecting the B 3 Σ state near v ′ = 4. For a given band the predissociation linewidth deduced from the spectra tends to increase as the total angular momentum increases. The new linewidths are smaller than some past experimental results, and this will have an impact on future calculations of the photodissociation rates of O 2 , NO, and H 2 O in the earth's upper atmosphere.
Season of Birth as Related to Seasonal Preference and Personality Traits

(1953). Season of Birth as Related to Seasonal Preference and Personality Traits. The Journal of Psychology: Vol. 36, No. 2, pp. 423-425.
Genetic and Endocrine Regulation of Vitellogenesis inDrosophila

SYNOPSIS. Three yolk polypeptides (YPs) are major constituents of eggs. YPs are synthesized in the fat body and in ovary associated cells, secreted into the blood and sequestered into developing oocytes. YPs are translated as precursors which can be processed to lower molecular weight polypeptides by dog pancreatic microsomes, suggesting signal peptide removal. YP synthesis in both ovary and fat body is stimulated by juvenile hormone (JH), but 20-hydroxyecdysone (20HE) only stimulates YP synthesis in fat body. JH also induces YP sequestration into oocytes. The amount of RNA translatable into YPs increases sevenfold in the first day after eclosion. The increase can be blocked by ligating the abdomen to isolate it from anterior endocrine organs, and it can be restored by injecting these preparations with 20HE. Using electrophoretic variants, the YPs have been genetically mapped to the X chromosome: Yp1 and Yp2 are adjacent and Yp3 is distantly linked. Two mutants have been described which decrease the quantity of a single YP, map near the respective YP structural loci, are cis-acting and are not ovary autonomous in transplants. fs (1)1163 alters the structure of the primary translation product and is hypothesized to alter YP processing and secretion. Although Yp3 RI results in no detectable YP3, the mutant genome and mutant RNA contains sequences complimentary to cloned Yp3 gene. This mutant may result in blocked translation. Further analysis of Drosophila vitellogenesis using molecular and classical genetic techniques promises to help us understand how hormones regulate gene activity.
Proposed Search for Antimatter among Hydrogen-like Atoms in the Ambiplasma

H. Alfven and O. Klein have developed1,2 an appealing idea in which antimatter plays an important part in cosmology. N. A. Vlasov3 has suggested an optical method for observing hydrogen-like atoms in an ambiplasma consisting of protons, anti-protons, electrons and positrons.
Observations on the conditionality of international financial institutions

Abstract Conditionality, the terms imposed by international financial institutions on borrowing countries, has been regarded by critics as being too inflexible and focussing too narrowly on demand forces and monetary policy instruments. The major intent of the paper, however, is to shift the discussion of conditionality to its functions in relation to private international lending. Conditionality provides information to lenders and certification of borrowers which, by decreasing uncertainty, may increase the quantities and reduce the costs of private lending. Yet restrictions on total and/or foreign credit may also reduce competition. These are examples of neglected issues of conditionality which deserve more attention.
Apo and InsP3-Bound Crystal Structures of the Ligand-Binding Domain of an InsP3 Receptor

We report the crystal structures of the ligand-binding domain (LBD) of a rat inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP(3)R) in its apo and InsP(3)-bound conformations. Comparison of these two conformations reveals that LBD's first β-trefoil fold (β-TF1) and armadillo repeat fold (ARF) move together as a unit relative to its second β-trefoil fold (β-TF2). Whereas apo LBD may spontaneously transition between gating conformations, InsP(3) binding shifts this equilibrium toward the active state.
Extensions between generalized Verma modules: The Hermitian symmetric cases

1.1. Let g be a semisimple complex Lie algebra with Cartan subalgebra _h and let b be a Borel subalgebra of g with nilradical n and Levi component _h. Let p(p~_b) be a parabolic subalgebra of g with nilradical _u(_u_~n) and Levi component _m(_m_ 0). The problem of computing the u-cohomology of irreducible highest weight (g, p)-modules is completely solved by the Kazhdan-Lusztig conjectures. On the other hand, the u-cohomology of the (g, p)-generalized Verma modules is a completely open question, even in the case when _/2 =-b. In this paper we give a solution to this problem for regular integral character in the cases when (g, p) corresponds to an indecomposable Hermitian symmetric pair. Our solution is given as a set of recursion relations for the dimensions of the spaces of extensions between generalized Verma modules.
Agitation in dementia: concept clarification.

Aim. The aim of this paper is to clarify the concept of agitation in dementia through analysing definitions, critical attributes, components, boundaries, antecedents and consequences of agitation. Background. The concept of agitation is not well defined. In addition, there exists much confusion about the characteristics and boundaries of agitation, as well as the distinction between agitation and related concepts. Recently developed theoretical models for agitation in dementia require new interpretation and conceptualization of agitation. Methods. Morse's method of critical appraisal of the literature was used. In addition, some parts of Rodgers’ evolutionary method were employed. Data were selected using six electronic databases and the key words ‘agitation’, ‘agitated’, ‘dementia’, ‘demented’ and ‘Alzheimer’. The analysis included 86 empirical or theoretical papers and one book. Results. A transition from the observer's perspective to the patient's perspective in the interpretation of agitation was found. Five critical attributes of agitation in dementia were identified: excessive, inappropriate, repetitive, non-specific and observable. Patient factors, interpersonal factors, environmental factors and restraint were identified as precipitating antecedents. Mediating antecedents included discomfort, unmet need and misinterpretation. Consequences of agitation were identified at the levels of patient, caregiver and others. Conclusions. This transition in perspectives has important implications as it can change health providers’ attitudes and responses to agitation and lead to patient-focused and individualized care. Researchers and clinicians are encouraged to avoid labelling agitated behaviour as ‘disturbing behaviour’.
Power controlled dual channel (PCDC) medium access protocol for wireless ad hoc networks

In this paper, we propose a comprehensive solution for power control in mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs). Our solution emphasizes the interplay between the MAC and network layers, whereby the MAC layer indirectly influences the selection of the next-hop by properly adjusting the power of route request packets. This is done while maintaining network connectivity. Directional and channel-gain information obtained mainly from overheard RTS and CTS packets is used to dynamically construct the network topology. By properly estimating the required transmission power for data packets, our protocol allows for interference-limited simultaneous transmissions to take place in the neighborhood of a receiving node. Simulation results indicate that compared to the IEEE 802.11 approach, the proposed protocol achieves a significant increase in the channel utilization and end-to-end network throughput, and a significant decrease in the total energy consumption.
Evolution of regeneration and fission in annelids: insights from engrailed- and orthodenticle-class gene expression

The recent explosion of information on the role of regulatory genes in embryogenesis provides an excellent opportunity to study how these genes participate in post-embryonic developmental processes. We present a detailed comparison of regulatory gene expression during regeneration and asexual reproduction (by fission) in the segmented worm Pristina leidyi (Annelida: Oligochaeta). We isolated three genes from Pristina, one homolog of engrailed and two homologs of orthodenticle, and characterized their expression in different developmental contexts. In situ hybridization studies on worms undergoing normal growth, regeneration and fission demonstrate that in all three processes, Pl-en is expressed primarily in the developing nervous system, and Pl-Otx1 and Pl-Otx2 are expressed primarily in the anterior body wall, foregut and developing nervous system. Our data reveal extensive similarities between expression during regeneration and fission, consistent with the idea that similar developmental processes underlie these two types of development. Thus, we argue that in these annelids fission may have evolved by recruitment of regenerative processes. Furthermore, by comparing our data to existing data from leech embryos, we find evidence that embryonic processes are re-deployed during regeneration and fission.
Medical students' attitudes about team-based learning in a pre-clinical curriculum.

Background: Team-Based Learning is relatively new in medical education. Team-Based Learning was integrated into one medical school’s pre-clinical curriculum in 2002. Purpose: This study compared how medical students’ attitudes about the Team-Based Learning process changed between the first and second year of medical school. Method: 180 students responded to 19 statements regarding their attitudes about Team-Based Learning during their first and second year of medical school. Data were analyzed using a MannWhitney U test. Results: Significant changes in attitudes occurred in the areas of Professional De velopment, Satisfaction with Team Experience, and Satisfaction with Peer Evaluation but not in the areas of Team Impact on Quality of Learning and Team Impact on Clinical Reasoning Ability. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that students’ attitudes about working within teams, their sense of professional development, and comfort and satisfaction with peer evaluation change in a curriculum using Team-Based Learning.
Genetic Fixity in the Human Major Histocompatibility Complex and Block Size Diversity in the Class I Region Including HLA-E

The definition of human MHC class I haplotypes through association of HLA-A, HLA-Cw and HLA-B has been used to analyze ethnicity, population migrations and disease association. Here, we present HLA-E allele haplotype association and population linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis within the ~1.3 Mb bounded by HLA-B/Cw and HLA-A to increase the resolution of identified class I haplotypes. Through local breakdown of LD, we inferred ancestral recombination points both upstream and downstream of HLA-E contributing to alternative block structures within previously identified haplotypes. Through single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis of the MHC region, we also confirmed the essential genetic fixity, previously inferred by MHC allele analysis, of three conserved extended haplotypes (CEHs), and we demonstrated that commercially-available SNP analysis can be used in the MHC to help define CEHs and CEH fragments. We conclude that to generate high-resolution maps for relating MHC haplotypes to disease susceptibility, both SNP and MHC allele analysis must be conducted as complementary techniques.
Imaging of multiple linear cracks using impedance data

This paper develops a fast, simple algorithm for locating one or more perfectly insulating, pair-wise disjoint, linear cracks in a homogeneous two-dimensional electrical conductor, using flux-potential boundary measurements. We also explore the issue of what types boundary inputs yield the most stable images.
Role of Neuronal Energy Status in the Regulation of Adenosine 5′-Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase, Orexigenic Neuropeptides Expression, and Feeding Behavior

Nutrient sensing in the hypothalamus is tightly related to food intake regulation. However, the mechanisms by which the nutrient-sensing cells of the brain translate this signal of energy need into feeding behavior via regulation of neuropeptide expression are not known. To address this issue, we investigated two neuronal cell lines expressing agouti-related protein (AgRP), ex vivo hypothalamic tissues, and in vivo whole animals. Maintaining cells in a low cellular ATP concentration generated by low glucose, 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG), ATP synthesis inhibitor, and 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide 1-beta-d-ribofuranoside increased phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and increased AgRP expression, whereas maintaining cells in high ATP status by high glucose and pyruvate supplementation in 2-DG-treated cells decreased phosphorylation of AMPK and decreased AgRP expression. Overexpression of a dominant-inhibitory mutant of AMPK significantly decreased low-glucose- or 2-DG-induced AgRP expression. Furthermore, ex vivo hypothalamus culture in high glucose concentrations decreased both expression and phosphorylation of AMPK and expression of both AgRP and neuropeptide Y, whereas pyruvate supplementation suppressed a 2-DG-induced AgRP expression. Finally, our in vivo studies clearly show that central administration of pyruvate dramatically delayed 2-DG-induced food intake. These data indicate that modulation of ATP levels in neuronal cells triggers a cascade of events via AMPK that modulate feeding behavior to restore energy status of cells.
Encoding Strategies Used by Native and Non-Native Readers of Chinese Mandarin

readers of Chinese, phonological representation of words in short-term memory exists much the same as it exists for native readers of alphabetbased languages.' Other researchers (Chen & Juola) have demonstrated a high degree of association between visual encoding strategies in short-term memory and Chinese. Finally, a third group (Biederman & Taso and Treiman et al.) suggest that Chinese characters invoke meaning much faster than do words in an alphabetic language. As a consequence, there has been ample experimental evidence to support the idea that all these strategies occur during silent reading in Chinese among native readers but is this true for non-native readers?