cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
4D-DSA and 4D fluoroscopy: preliminary implementation

We have described methods that allow highly accelerated MRI using under-sampled acquisitions and constrained reconstruction. One is a hybrid acquisition involving the constrained reconstruction of time dependent information obtained from a separate scan of longer duration. We have developed reconstruction algorithms for DSA that allow use of a single injection to provide the temporal data required for flow visualization and the steady state data required for construction of a 3D-DSA vascular volume. The result is time resolved 3D volumes with typical resolution of 512 3 at frame rates of 20-30 fps. Full manipulation of these images is possible during each stage of vascular filling thereby allowing for simplified interpretation of vascular dynamics. For intravenous angiography this time resolved 3D capability overcomes the vessel overlap problem that greatly limited the use of conventional intravenous 2D-DSA. Following further hardware development, it will be also be possible to rotate fluoroscopic volumes for use as roadmaps that can be viewed at arbitrary angles without a need for gantry rotation. The most precise implementation of this capability requires availability of biplane fluoroscopy data. Since the reconstruction of 3D volumes presently suppresses the contrast in the soft tissue, the possibility of using these techniques to derive complete indications of perfusion deficits based on cerebral blood volume (CBV), mean transit time (MTT) and time to peak (TTP) parameters requires further investigation. Using MATLAB post-processing, successful studies in animals and humans done in conjunction with both intravenous and intra-arterial injections have been completed. Real time implementation is in progress.
Report from the SciDB Workshop

A mini-workshop with representatives from the data-driven science and database research communities was organized in response to suggestions at the first XLDB Workshop. The goal was to develop common requirements and primitives for a next-generation database management system that scientists would use, including those from high-energy physics, astronomy, biology, geoscience and fusion, in order to stimulate research and advance technology. These requirements were thought by the database researchers to be novel and unlikely to be fully met by current commercial vendors. The two groups accordingly decided to explore building a new open source DBMS. This paper is the final report of the discussions and activities at the workshop
Prompt timing response in X-ray, heavy ion experiments using NaI(Tl) and surface-barrier detectors

Abstract The results of an investigation of timing with a delayed coincidence system containing a NaI(Tl) scintillator and a silicon surface-barrier detector are presented. A model for the system is described and an analytical expression for the prompt response is developed. The analytical expression is compared with the prompt response measured for the alpha decay of 252 Cf and the subsequent 248 Cm L X-ray emission. The comparison indicates that the model adequately describes the timing response of the system. Also, an analytical expression is presented which represents the timing spectrum produced by the radioactive decay of several nuclear species folded with the system prompt response. The use of this expression to analyze complex timing spectra is demonstrated by unfolding measured timing data that represent the time intervals between fission and the emission of K X-rays.
Spending Priorities and Democratic Rule in Latin America

Has democracy produced a shift in Latin American budget priorities from military to civilian spending? Do discerned shifts from military to civilian spending within democracies represent “hard choices,” that is, are they shifts of the “zero-sum” variety in which resources from one budget are effectively given to another? A budgetary model is developed to explain the change in nonmilitary relative to military spending. Cross-sectional time series data for a large number of Latin American countries in the period from 1974 to 1995 are used to test the model. Results show that level of democracy has a significant positive effect on the size of nonmilitary relative to military budgets, that Latin American democratization is producing significant budgetary changes, and that democratic countries rely on zero-sum trade-offs that defy prediction.
Biosynthesis of 1,4-benzoxazin-3-ones in Zea mays

14C- and 15N-anthranilic acid are incorporated into the 1,4-benzoxazin-3-ones in maize seedling leaves with low dilution of the isotope. o-Aminophenol and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid are not incorporated and are probably not intermediates. The cyclic hydroxamic acid and lactam members of the 1,4-benzoxazin-3-one group of compounds are readily interconverted.
Evolution: Skipping School

Summary Some individual fish like to be close together in ‘schools', while other individuals like to be alone. A pair of recent papers dissects the genetic basis of schooling behavior, showing that genetic changes in sensory systems are involved when this social behavior is lost during evolution.
QT Variability during Rest and Exercise in Patients with Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators and Healthy Controls

Background: Increased QT Variability (QTVI) is predictive of life threatening arrhythmias in vulnerable patients. The predictive value of QTVI is based on resting ECGs, and little is known about the effect of acute exercise on QTVI. The relation between QTVI and arrhythmic vulnerability markers such as T-wave alternans (TWA) has also not been studied. This study examined the effects of exercise on QTVI and TWA in patients with arrhythmic vulnerability. Methods: Digitized ECGs were obtained from 47 ICD patients (43 males; age 60.9 ± 10.1) and 23 healthy controls (18 males; age 59.7 ± 9.5) during rest and bicycle exercise. QTVI was assessed using a previously validated algorithm and TWA was measured as both a continuous and a categorical variable based on a priori diagnostic criteria. Results: QTVI increased with exercise in ICD patients (−0.79 ± 0.11 to 0.36 ± 0.08, P 0.20). Among ICD patients, elevated exercise QTVI was related to lower LV ejection fraction and inducibility of ischemia (P < 0.05). QTVI at rest correlated with exercise TWA (r = 0.54, P = 0.0004). Conclusions: QT variability increases significantly with exercise, and exercise QTVI is related to other well-documented markers of arrhythmic vulnerability, including low ejection fraction, inducible ischemia, and TWA. Resting QTVI may be useful in the risk stratification of individuals incapable of performing standard exercise protocols.
Physical activity and quality of life among university students: exploring self-efficacy, self-esteem, and affect as potential mediators

Purpose Physical activity (PA) has been shown to enhance quality of life (QOL) in older adults. Findings from these studies indicate that the relationship between PA and QOL is indirect and likely mediated by variables such as physical self-esteem, exercise self-efficacy, and affect. As PA varies greatly by age, the purpose of the current study is to extend this area of research to young adults and explore the complex relationship between PA and QOL in this target population.
Design and development of a rapid acquisition laser-based fluorometer with simultaneous spectral and temporal resolution

We report the design, development, and characterization of a sensitive, time-resolved fluorescence spectrometer capable of measuring fluorescence spectra and transient decays simultaneously, with data acquisition times less than 1 s. The spectrometer, a portable fluorescence lifetime spectrometer (FLS), was designed to be compatible with both laboratory and clinical research studies on biological systems, and was applied to the study of several biological fluorophores in vitro and human tissue in vivo. The instrument consisted of a nitrogen laser pumping a dye laser for excitation from 337.1 nm through the near infrared, a quartz fiber-optic probe for remote light delivery and collection, and amplified detectors for rapid spectral and temporal detection from 350 to 800 nm. The spectral resolution of the FLS was determined to be 3 nm, which is sufficient for accurately detecting the broad spectral bands associated with biological fluorophores. The FLS was able to detect 5×10−7 M fluorescein dye concentrations with spectral signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of 29. Time-resolved detection with the FLS had a dynamic range of approximately three decades with a SNR of 200. Using fluorescence lifetime standards, the FLS was determined to be capable of accurately resolving fluorophore lifetimes from hundreds of picoseconds to tens of nanoseconds in duration, with an ultimate temporal resolution of 360 ps.
Creating a Schoolwide Vocabulary Initiative in an Urban High School.

In an effort to improve student achievement at an urban high school, teachers and administrators developed a 5-part, schoolwide vocabulary plan. Over 4 years, teachers provided students with increased opportunities to read, read to their students, developed content-specific vocabulary instruction, taught students academic words, and focused on 5 words each week with a common prefix, suffix, or root. Over the 4 years, student achievement in vocabulary and reading comprehension improved in significant ways, both on reading assessments and state achievement tests.
Task experience and social cues: Interactive effects on attitudinal reactions

Abstract The interactive effects of social cues and task experience on a variety of task-related attitudes were investigated in a laboratory study. Eighty subjects were randomly assigned in a 4 × 2 between-subjects factorial design including four types of social cues (positive, neutral, negative, and mixed—positive and negative) delivered either early or late in the work session. The task required three participants (two confederates and one naive subject) to sort job descriptive statements into predetermined categories, each decision requiring group discussion. Social cues addressed general reactions to the task. Results showed that as subjects gained more task experience relative to receiving social information, the social information had less impact on task-related attitudes and a behavioral intention variable. Attitudes toward the work group showed no interactive effects, however. The patterns of results supported an attitude formation process in which individuals utilize whatever information is available and relevant to the attitude, whether obtained through direct experience or social cues.
A note onL p spaces of harmonic functions

The following result is proved: Letp>0,a>−1. Suppose thatG is a measurable subset ofB, the unit ball in ℝ N , for which there exists a positive constantA 1, so that $$\int\limits_B {\left( {1 - \left| x \right|} \right)^a \left| {f(x)} \right|^p dm \leqslant A_1 } \int\limits_G {\left( {1 - \left| x \right|} \right)^a \left| {f(x)} \right|^p dm}$$ for each function that is harmonic inB and for which the left-hand side of the above inequality is finite. Then there is a positive constantA 2 so that for each ballK with center on ϖB, $$m\left( {K \cap B} \right) \leqslant A_2 m\left( {K \cap G} \right).$$ Herem denotes Lebesgue measure in ℝ N . This result answers a question left open byDan Luecking [2].
Quantum statistics of a charged bose gas in the ground state

Abstract A gas of interacting charged bosons is examined with the temperature-dependent methods of quantum statistical mechanics,and the ground-state properties are calculated. A somewhat new approach to the boson problem is introduced, which is compared to previous methods utilized in studying this and other problems. The energy of the ground state is found to be in substantial agreement with recent calculations employing different techniques, and a very recent discovery concerning the correct expansion for the depletion of the ground state is confirmed. Several other thermodynamic quantities are also discussed and calculated.
How Important Are Competitive Wages? Exploring the Impact of Relative Wage Rates on Employee Turnover in State Government

In recent years, public management research has made great strides in explaining the drivers of employee turnover in the public sector, with key findings related to the role of employee loyalty, organizational satisfaction, person-organization fit, and compensation. This article contributes to this growing body of literature by assessing the influence of a previously untested driver of employee turnover at the state level of government: public—private wage equity. Contrary to conventional wisdom, results suggest that public—private wage equity does not significantly influence voluntary separation rates, whereas state government unionization and the average age of state government employees are found to be indirectly related to voluntary separation. Results also point to the potential implications of ethnicity, gender, and public service motivation in state government employee turnover and provide key insights for those seeking to further understand the impact of reduced expenditures on public sector wages...
Chemical Modification and Site-directed Mutagenesis of Conserved HXXH and PP-loop Motif Arginines and Histidines in the Murine Bifunctional ATP Sulfurylase/Adenosine 5′-Phosphosulfate Kinase

The sulfurylase domain of the mouse bifunctional enzyme ATP sulfurylase/adenosine 5′-phosphosulfate (APS) kinase contains HXXH and PP-loop motifs. To elucidate the functional importance of these motifs and of conserved arginines and histidines, chemical modification and site-directed mutagenesis studies were performed. Chemical modification of arginines and histidines with phenylglyoxal and diethyl pyrocarbonate, respectively, renders the enzyme inactive in sulfurylase, kinase, and overall assays. Data base searches and sequence comparison of bifunctional ATP sulfurylase/APS kinase and monofunctional ATP sulfurylases shows a limited number of highly conserved arginines and histidines within the sulfurylase domain. Of these conserved residues, His-425, His-428, and Arg-421 are present within or near the HXXH motif whereas His-506, Arg-510, and Arg-522 residues are present in and around the PP-loop. The functional role of these conserved residues was further studied by site-directed mutagenesis. In the HXXH motif, none of the alanine mutants (H425A, H428A, and R421A) had sulfurylase or overall activity, whereas they all exhibited normal kinase activity. A slight improvement in reverse sulfurylase activity (
Mechanizing the loading of magnesite brick onto kiln cars

Practical experience with the main prototype of the manipulator at the Magnezit Factory has confirmed the working capacity and reliability of this machine. The use of the manipulator has reduced the number of workers occupied with manual work, greatly facilitating the loading of the products on the car and increasing labor productivity by 3–3.5 times.
Reasoning requirements for diagnosis of heart disease

Over the past dozen years, the Heart Disease Program (HDP) has been developed to assist physicians in reasoning about cardiovascular disorders. Driven by several evaluations, the inference mechanism has progressed from a logic based model, to a Bayesian Probability Network (BPN) and finally a pseudo-Bayesian network with temporal and severity reasoning. Though aspects of cardiovascular reasoning are handled well by BPNs, temporal reasoning, homeostatic feedback mechanisms and effects of disease severities require additional inference strategies. This article discusses how these reasoning problems are handled, and deals with closely linked issues in building the user interface to collect detailed cardiovascular data and provide clear explanations of diagnoses.
Midterm Changes in Renal Function Following Snorkel Repair of Juxtarenal Aneurysms

METHODS: Patients who underwent Sn-EVAR from 2009-2012 were included in this analysis. Creatinine values were obtained throughout the patient’s pre-, peri-, and post-operative course. GFR was estimated using the simplified modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) formula. Chronic renal insufficiency was defined as pre-op serum creatinine >1.5 mg/dl. Postoperative renal dysfunction was stratified by two methods, creatinine increase >0.5 mg/dl as well as with the previously validated RIFLE classification system utilizing GFR.
Estimating Trade Liberalization Effects for U.S. Grains and Cotton

The Uruguay Round of multilateral trade negotiations is viewed by many as an historic opportunity to reform agricultural policies and liberalize agricultural trade. This paper analyzes the implications of assumptions about the effectiveness of acreage reduction programs, fixity of farm assets, and decoupling on trade liberalization results for U.S. grains and cotton. The range of outcomes for various slippage specifications is not very wide. More significant changes come from varying model supply elasticities that reflect the degree to which agricultural resources are not transferable to other sectors of the economy. Also, the degree to which deficiency payments are decoupled from production implies trade liberalization outcomes more favorable for the United States.
Rosai-Dorfman disease of the mandible

Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD) is a rare, non-neoplastic histiocytosis most commonly characterized by painless, massive cervical lymphadenopathy. Over half of all patients with lymph node involvement also demonstrate extranodal disease, with most affected individuals exhibiting lesions within the region of the head and neck. Oral manifestations of RDD are extremely rare, and almost always identified in association with nodal or other extranodal disease. However, rare examples of extranodal RDD, including oral RDD, without clinical or radiographic evidence of concomitant lymph node involvement, have also been described. We report a rare case of solitary, extranodal RDD arising within the mandible in a pregnant woman. To our knowledge, this case represents only the fourth documented example of solitary oral RDD. A review of the clinical and histopathologic features associated with RDD is also presented.
Transfer of response from compound conditioned stimuli

Forty Ss were given discrimination conditioning of the GSR with one CS (a pair of colored dots) accompanied by a shock, and a second CS (also a pair of colored dots) not accompanied by shock. An acquisition series was followed by a transfer test series including the original compound stimuli, the individual components, and new compounds formed by different pairing of the components. Discrimination conditioning was established but differential responding did not transfer to the components. Maximum response was obtained to new combinations (pairs) of the original components.
Identification and culture of olfactory neural progenitors from GFP mice

The olfactory epithelium (OE) is one of the best sources for obtaining adult stem cells from the nervous system, because it contains neural progenitors that regenerate continuously throughout life. The OE is accessible through the nasal cavity, which facilitates stem cell harvest for examination and transplantation. The mitotic activity of OE progenitors can be stimulated by intranasal irrigation with zinc sulfate (ZnSO4). In the study reported here, we focused on OE from a transgenic mouse line transfected with green fluorescent protein (GFP). Histological examination demonstrated the site of highest yield of OE in the transgenic and wild type littermates. Cultures were established from that site four days in vitro following ZnSO4 exposure. The GFP-derived primary cultures contained a heterogeneous population of fluorescent cells. After 10-12 days, a population of round, mitotically active cells emerged that formed fluorescent neurospheres. The neurosphere forming cells (NSFCs) were collected and subcultured up to four times. The NSFCs were primarily neuronal with only a few cells of glial lineage. Furthermore, the NSFCs were nestin positive and keratin negative, suggesting that they were neural progenitors. The endogenous GFP fluorescence of these cells provides a readily identifiable label that will facilitate their identification following transplantation into nontransfected hosts. They should provide a useful model for evaluating the potential therapeutic utility of OE progenitors in neurodegenerative diseases and neurotrauma repair.
Monkeypox virus (MPV). II. Uncoating and nucleic acid synthesis.

The percentage of uncoating of monkeypox virus (MPV) in CV-1 cells measured by sensitivity of viral DNA to deoxyribonuclease was 24, 46, 53, 48, and 54, at respective 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 hours post infection. Cores began to appear 1/2 to 1 hour post infection and subsided 3–4 hours post infection to yield naked DNA. The uncoating process was not inhibited by cytosine arabinoside. In cells pretreated with actinomycin-D and infected with MPV in the presence of 2 μg/ml actinomycin-D virion and core peaks were observed but no naked DNA appeared. The time required for a single step growth curve was 12 hours. At 2 hours post infection RNA slightly smaller than 16 S was synthesized. At 4 hours post infection 10 S to 20 S RNA was synthesized; 22 S at 6 to 10 hours. Nuclear RNA synthesis was suppressed.
Cystic follicular disease in Michigan Holstein-Friesian cattle: Incidence, descriptive epidemiology and economic impact

Abstract Data collected from the Food Animal Health Resource Management System (FAHRMX) Dairy Herd Health Network between 1981 and 1984 were used to study the incidence, descriptive epidemiology and economic impact of cystic follicular disease. Complete records were available for 2847 lactations of Holstein-Friesian cows from 21 Michigan herds. The lactational incidence rate of cystic follicular disease was 12.8%. The condition was more common in older cattle, with a bimodal peak incidence between 30 an 40 days post-partum and between 190 and 220 days post-partum. The economic loss for the average lactation with cystic follicles was estimated at approximately $137 considering the effects on reproduction, culling, medical costs and labor. Lactations with cystic follicles produced an average of $98 more 305 mature equivalent milk than lactations without cystic follicles.
MICROHABITAT AND STRUCTURAL VARIATION IN THE ASPICILIA DESERTORUM GROUP (LICHENIZED ASCOMYCETES)

Fruticose and crustose forms of Aspicilia desertorum (Kremp.) Meresch. are recorded from Western Colorado in microhabitats beneath snow patches and on exposed rock surfaces, respectively. For single populations, microenvironmental variation in substrate, temperature, light intensity and water availability is directly related to continuous morphological variation. Functional variation with habitat is evident in growth form, stage of apothecial development, calcium oxalate pruinosity, anatomical disposition of unidentified crystalline material, cortical anatomy and continuity, numbers of algal cells per unit weight of thallus, medullary anatomy, maximum thallus water content (or water-holding capacity) and relative thickness of hyphal walls. These multivariate relationships define ecomorphological syndromes and a pattern of variation with parallels at a higher phytogeographic level. THIS PAPER reports patterns of morphological and anatomical variation in relationship to microhabitat in the Aspicilia desertorum (Kremp.) Meresch. group. A companion paper (Kunkel, unpubl. in prep.) details physiological comparisons between extreme morphological variants within this taxon. These distinct approaches are here unified in an attempt to view covariation between microclimate, thallus structure and physiological response within a single lichen system. Particular attention has been devoted to aspects of thallus structure potentially mediating physiological response. As composite thalli, lichens represent autotrophic systems requiring net CO2 assimilation for growth and reproduction. The low net
Unexpected, Well-Developed Nestmate Recognition in Laboratory Colonies of Polygyne Imported Fire Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

Aggression bioassays were used to investigate nestmate recognition in polygyne laboratory colonies of the imported fire ant, Solenopsis invictaBuren. Unlike workers from polygyne field colonies, laboratory-maintained (>10 weeks) workers exhibited well-developed nestmate recognition. As in monogyne colonies of this species, both heritable and environmentally acquired (diet) odors provided recognition cues and were roughly additive in their effect. Within diet treatments, polygyne colonies responded in a graded fashion to polygyne conspecifics, monogyne conspecifics, and heterospecifics (S. richteri Forel),thus suggesting incipient genetic divergence between the two S. invictasocial forms. Hypotheses to account for the acute intraspecific discrimination observed in the laboratory are presented. Empirical testing of these hypotheses will illuminate ecological constraints and proximate mechanisms underlying the reduced intercolony discrimination associated with natural polygyne colonies of this and other ant species.
The Role of and Challenges for Psychologists in Physician Assisted Suicide

Physician assisted suicide (PAS) poses complex legal and ethical dilemmas for practicing psychologists. Since the passage of the Oregon Death with Dignity Act in 1997, Montana and Washington have passed similar legislation. Despite the law requiring competence evaluations by medical and psychological professionals, existing psycholegal literature inadequately addresses the role of psychologists in the PAS process. This article reviews legal statutes and analyzes ethical dilemmas psychologists may face if involved. We consider competence both generally and in the context of PAS. Suggestions are made for psychologists completing competence assessments and future directions to improve competence assessments for PAS are provided.
xBtg-x regulates Wnt/β-Catenin signaling during early Xenopus development

In Xenopus, two signaling systems, maternal β-Catenin and Nodal-related, are required for induction of the Spemann organizer and establishment of the body plan. By screening cDNA macroarrays for genes activated by these two signaling pathways, we identified Xenopus xBtg-x, a novel member of the Btg/Tob gene family of antiproliferative proteins. We show that xBtg-x is expressed in the dorsal mesendoderm (Spemann organizer tissue) of gastrula stage embryos and that its expression is regulated by both β-Catenin and Nodal-related signals. Microinjection of synthetic xBtg-x mRNA into Xenopus embryos induced axis duplication and completely rescued the ventralizing effects of UV irradiation through the activation of the canonical Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway. Interestingly, xBtg-x stimulated β-Catenin-dependent transcription without affecting the stability of β-Catenin protein. These data suggest that xBtg-x is a novel component of the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway regulating early embryonic patterning.
How much is that birdie in my backyard? A cross-continental economic valuation of native urban songbirds

Human-wildlife interactions in urban areas, both positive and negative, often involve people and birds. We assess the economic value placed on interactions with common native songbirds in two different urban areas (Berlin, Germany and Seattle, Washington, USA) by combining a revealed preference (recalled expenditures on bird feed) and a stated preference approach (determining willingness to pay for conservation or reduction of birds). Residents in both cities purchase bird food, engage in a range of bird-supporting activities and are generally willing to pay a small amount for native songbird conservation. Demographic, cultural and socio-economic factors, as well as specific attitudes towards birds and general attitudes about conservation were found to influence these decisions. This study presents the first attempt at estimating the economic value of enjoying common native urban songbirds and estimates the lower bound to be about 120 million USD/year in Seattle and 70 million USD/year in Berlin.
Breaking the barrier: the Health Belief Model and patient perceptions regarding contraception

Abstract Background The study was conducted to determine the discrepancy between unintended pregnancies and use of contraception is attributed to imperfect use, misconceptions and an inability to adjust therapy to lifestyle. Study Design A survey administered at a Federal clinic incorporated the Health Belief Model to determine patient's emphasis in pregnancy prevention. Analysis focused on comparing participant demographics to reasons for contraceptive selection. Results Ease of use ranked the most important for contraception as patient's education levels increased (p=.001). As household income increased, emphasis on potential side effects became less (p=.02). Patients with private insurance ranked ease of use most frequently (p=.01). Males emphasized effectiveness and menstrual suppression more than females (p=.04 and .008). Conclusion A positive correlation between perceived benefit regarding ease of use as educational level increased and perceived barriers due to side effects as income level decreased immerged. Special counseling by practitioners to improve patient's self-efficacy, ultimately enhancing contraceptive adherence, are warranted.
AUDIOGENIC SEIZURE IN GENETICALLY SUSCEPTIBLE MICE: RELATION OF HYPOTHERMIA TO ONSET AND SUSCEPTIBILITY.

Abstract The protective effect of reduction of body temperature against audiogenic seizure was investigated in a strain of mice genetically predisposed to audiogenic seizure. Mice were dipped in a cold detergent solution and exposed to cold (2 ± 0.5 C air temperature) for 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 min and promptly subjected to a standard sound stimulus. Ninety-two percent of the animals with colonic temperatures reduced to within the range of 34.5–29.0 C showed elevated latencies to seizure; two animals (colonic temperature 29.0 and 29.4 C) failed to convulse. Of the animals with colonic temperatures reduced to 27–29 C, 69 per cent were completely protected against audiogenic seizure. Complete protection occurred in all animals with colonic temperatures below 27.0 C. Those that failed to convulse while hypothermic were retested under euthermic conditions 90 min after the exposure to cold. Prolonged latency to seizure was observed in 80 per cent of the animals that convulsed during this retest. When tested again under euthermic conditions 24 hours after the exposure to cold 89 per cent of the mice exhibited convulsions, and the latencies to seizure did not significantly differ from those of the control animals tested at this time.
Complex-basis-function treatment of photoionization in the random-phase approximation

Complex-basis-function techniques are used to implement the equations of the random-phase approximation (RPA) in matrix form. This approach allows the direct extraction of total photoionization cross sections from a finite series of (complex) transition energies and oscillator strengths. The RPA is an effective means for including electron correlation effects on the photoionization of closed-shell atoms and molecules. The procedure demonstrated here provides a rigorous way of solving the RPA equations for continuum photoabsorption without resorting to numerical integration. The results of calculations on He and N/sub 2/ are presented. Correlation effects are found to significantly influence the threshold behavior of the N/sub 2/ photoionization cross sections.
Validation of a 2-day water maze protocol in mice.

We present a 2-day water maze protocol that addresses some of potential confounds present in the water maze when using the aged subjects typical of studies of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. This protocol is based on an initial series of training trials with a visible platform, followed by a memory test with a hidden platform 24 h later. We validated this procedure using aged (15–18 m) mice expressing three Alzheimer’s disease-related transgenes, PS1(M146 V), APP(Swe), and tau(P301L). We also tested these triple transgenic mice (3xTG) and age and sex-matched wild-type (WT) in a behavioral battery consisting of tests of motor coordination (balance beam), spatial memory (object displacement task) visual acuity (novel object recognition task) and locomotor activity (open field). 3xTG mice had significantly longer escape latencies in the memory trial of the 2-day water maze test than WT and than their own baseline performance in the last visible platform trial. In addition, this protocol had improved sensitivity compared to a typical probe trial, since no significant differences between genotypes were evident in a probe trial conducted 24 h after the final training trial. The 2-day procedure also resulted in good reliability between cohorts, and controlled for non-cognitive factors that can confound water maze assessments of memory, such as the significantly lower locomotor activity evident in the 3xTG mice. A further benefit of this method is that large numbers of animals can be tested in a short time.
Atomistic simulations of Ga atom ordering in Pu 5 at. % Ga alloys

We employ molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo (MC) methods to simulate the rearrangement of Ga atoms from a randomly distributed Pu-Ga alloy and study the resultant effect on thermodynamic properties. The results show that all of the first neighbor Ga-Ga bonds are removed at all temperatures considered (200, 400 and 600 K) while the number of 2NN and 3NN bonds increase, and the number of 4NN bonds decreases. These results imply that Ga atoms develop strong short range ordering in the solid solution. The ordering causes an enthalpy decrease about ~3–4 meV/atom for different temperatures in the 5 at. % Ga alloy. This energy change is clearly important in the calculation of the Pu-Ga phase diagram. In addition, MC calculations at 200 K show pronounced Ga segregation.
Prognostic Variables for Electro-Shock Therapy

(1954). Prognostic Variables for Electro-Shock Therapy. The Journal of General Psychology: Vol. 50, No. 1, pp. 79-86.
Design and analysis of 42-V permanent-magnet generator for automotive applications

The new 42-V automotive electric system comes up with new requirements for alternator design. A three-phase permanent-magnet (PM) synchronous generator for automotive applications is designed using analytical algorithms. The electromagnetic (EM) field for a certain design is analyzed based on a proposed equivalent magnetic circuit model. The proposed model is validated by comparing the analysis results using the model and those based on finite-element analysis under no-load and full-load conditions for saturation considerations. The analysis results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed machine design methodology.
Dynamics of Downwelling in an Eddy-Resolving Convective Basin

The mean downwelling in an eddy-resolving model of a convective basin is concentrated near the boundary where eddies are shed from the cyclonic boundary current into the interior. It is suggested that the buoyancyforced downwelling in the Labrador Sea and the Lofoten Basin is similarly concentrated in analogous eddy formation regions along their eastern boundaries. Use of a transformed Eulerian mean depiction of the density transport reveals the central role eddy fluxes play in maintaining the adiabatic nature of the flow in a nonperiodic region where heat is lost from the boundary current. The vorticity balance in the downwelling region is primarily between stretching of planetary vorticity and eddy flux divergence of relative vorticity, althougha narrowviscous boundarylayeris ultimately importantin closingtheregionalvorticitybudget.This overall balance is similar in some ways to the diffusive‐viscous balance represented in previous boundary layer theories, and suggests that the downwelling in convective basins may be properly represented in lowresolution climate models if eddy flux parameterizations are adiabatic, identify localized regions of eddy formations, and allow density to be transported far from the region of eddy formations.
Investigation of the suitability of using modulated scatterers to measure the pattern of ground-penetrating radar antennas

Experiments and simulations were performed in order to assess the suitability of electrically and optically modulated scattererers (OMS) as electromagnetic field probes for measuring the pattern of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) antennas. Of special importance for the probe are its comparative performance as well as its frequency response. The former is related to the depth of modulation that the modulating device is able to reach and can be optimized with a proper choice of active element. The latter was improved by making the probe more broadband. The present work will also show the steps that have been taken to achieve better frequency response from 2 GHz to 8 GHz by means of resistively loading the probe and discuss the trade-offs involved in doing so.
Neutron‐Absorbing Glass: CdO‐SiO2‐B2O3 System

A large part of the glass-forming region of the system CdO–SiO2–B2O3 has been investigated, and certain properties of representative glasses have been measured. Borate glasses high in cadmium oxide and containing lesser amounts of silica, together with small additions of calcium fluoride and alumina, are good slow-neutron absorbers. These glasses are not only stable against moisture attack and devitrification, but axe easily made with ordinary glassmelting techniques. Equations have been developed to permit one to calculate, from composition, the neutron transmission and hence the neutron absorption of the glasses.
Mime in the lion and the jewel

(1973). Mime in the lion and the jewel. World Literature Written in English: Vol. 12, No. 1, pp. 37-44.
Judicial Independence as an Organizing Principle

The term judicial independence has a range of meanings and applications. It is variously employed in normative and descriptive ways; in absolute and relative terms; as a theoretical construct and a practical safeguard; in regard to judges individually and collectively; as an end in itself and a means to other ends; as a matter of hard law and soft norm; and in relation to the political branches of government, the media, the electorate, litigants, interest groups, and judges themselves. This article creates a structure within which to situate the judicial independence literature, to the end of positioning judicial independence as a useful, if polymorphous, organizing principle that delineates a foundational component of the judicial role.
Role of guanine nucleotides in the vinblastine-induced self-association of tubulin: effects of guanosine alpha,beta-methylenetriphosphate and guanosine alpha,beta-methylenediphosphate.

It is now well established that guanine nucleotides are allosteric effectors of the vinca alkaloid-induced self-association of tubulin. GDP enhances self-association for vinblastine-, vincristine- and vinorelbine-induced spiral assembly relative to GTP by 0.90 ± 0.17 kcal/mol [Lobert et al. (1996) Biochemistry 35, 6806−6814]. Since chemical modifications of the vinca alkaloid structure are known to modulate the overall affinity of drug binding, it is very likely that, by Wyman linkage, chemical modifications of guanine nucleotide allosteric effectors also modulate drug binding. Here we compare the effects of the GTP and GDP α,β-methylene analogues GMPCPP and GMPCP on vinblastine-induced tubulin association in 10 and 100 mM piperazine-N,N‘-bis(2-ethanesulfonic acid) (Pipes), 1 mM MgSO4, and 2 mM [ethylenebis(oxyethylenenitrilo)]tetraacetic acid (EGTA), pH 6.9, at different temperatures. We found that GMPCPP perfectly mimics GTP in its effect on spiral assembly under all ionic strength and temperature condi...
Differential effects of free and liposome-associated 1-O-octadecyl-2-O-methylglycerophosphocholine on protein kinase C

Abstract Incorporation of ET-18-OCH3 into well-characterized liposomes known as ELL-12 has eliminated its gastrointestinal and hemolytic toxicity without loss of growth inhibiting activity. ET-18-OCH3, but not ELL-12, blunted the increase in membrane protein kinase C (PKC) activity induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-myristate (TPA) and markedly reduced levels of PKCα in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. Furthermore, prolonged treatment with ELL-12 neither inhibited TPA-induced translocations of PKCα and PKCδ to the particulate fraction nor caused down-regulation, and did not affect the cellular distribution of TPA-insensitive PKCζ. In Jurkat T cells, where ELL-12 markedly induced apoptosis that was blocked by an inhibitor of caspase-3-like activities, it had no effect on PKC activity or translocation induced by TPA. Thus, it seems unlikely that PKC is involved in the therapeutic effects of ELL-12.
Earliest deadline scheduling for real-time database systems

A new priority assignment algorithm called adaptive earliest deadline (AED) is given that stabilizes the overload performance of the earliest deadline policy in a real-time database system (RTDBS) environment. The AED algorithm uses a feedback control mechanism to achieve this objective and does not require knowledge of transaction characteristics. Using a detailed simulation model, the authors compare the performance of AED with respect to earliest deadline and other fixed priority schemes. They also present and evaluate an extension of the AED algorithm called hierarchical earliest deadline (HED), which is designed to handle applications that assign different values to transactions and where the goal is to maximize the total value of the in-time transactions. >
A Stocking Diagram for Midwestern Eastern Cottonwood-Silver Maple-American Sycamore Bottomland Forests

A stocking diagram for Midwestern bottomland eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides Bartram ex Marsh.)-silver maple (Acer saccharinum L.)-American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis L.) forests was developed following the methods of S.F. Gingrich (1967. Measuring and evaluating stocking and stand density in upland hardwood forests in the Central States. For. Sci. 13:38–53). The stocking diagram was derived from forest inventory data from two different studies of bottomland forests that covered a wide range of soil and hydrologic site characteristics found throughout the central Midwest, including Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, and southern Wisconsin. The minimum of full stocking (B-level) was determined from measurements on open-grown trees. The maximum of full stocking (A-level) in our study was almost one-third higher in stand basal area than A-level stocking, as determined by J.C.G. Goelz (1995. A stocking guide for southern bottomland hardwoods. South. J. Appl. For. 19:103–104) for southern hardwood bottomlands dominated by cherrybark oak (Quercus pagoda Raf.), Nuttall oak (Quercus nuttallii Palmer), and sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua L.,), or by C.C. Myers and R.G. Buchman (1984. Manager’s handbook for elm-ash-cottonwood in the north central states. GTR-98. US Forest Service, North Central For. Exp. Stn., St. Paul, MN. 11 p) for elm (Ulmus spp.), ash (Fraxinus spp.), and eastern cottonwood forests in the north central states. However, A-level stocking in this study was only slightly higher than guides developed for northern red oak (Quercus rubra L.) in Wisconsin (McGill, D.W., R. Rogers, A.J. Martin, and P.S. Johnson. 1999. Measuring stocking in northern red oak stands in Wisconsin. North. J. Appl. For. 16:144–150). Differences in stocking among these forest types are due to variation in species composition, species silvical characteristics, and possibly the data sources used to construct the stocking diagrams. This stocking diagram can be used by forest managers to make decisions related to stand stocking for management of eastern cottonwood, silver maple, and American sycamore bottomland forests in the Midwest.
Comparison of macro-tip/tilt and mesoscale position beam-steering transducers for free-space optical communications using a quadrant photodiode sensor

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) plans to develop optical communication terminals for future spacecraft, especially in support of high data rate science missions and manned exploration of Mars. Future, very long-range missions, such as the Realistic Interstellar Explorer (RISE)1, will need optical downlink communications to enable even very low data rates. For all of these applications, very fine pointing and tracking is also required, with accuracies on the order of ± 1 μrad or less and peak-to-peak ranges of ± 10 mrad or more. For these applications, it will also be necessary to implement very compact, lightweight and low-power precision beam-steering technologies. Although current commercial-off-the-shelf devices, such as macro-scale piezo-driven tip/tilt actuators exist, which approach mission requirements, they are too large, heavy, and power consuming for projected spacecraft mass and power budgets. The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL) has adopted a different approach to beam-steering in collaboration with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). We are testing and planning to eventually package a highly accurate large dynamic range meso-scale position transducer under development at NIST. In this paper we will describe a generic package design of an optical communications terminal incorporating the NIST prototype beam-steerer. We will also show test results comparing the performance of the NIST prototype meso-scale position beam-steerer to a commercial macro-tip/tilt actuator using a quad-cell tracking sensor.
Modelling the effect of duration of weed competition, weed density and weed competitiveness on seeded, irrigated onion

Summary Weed removal experiments were conducted in growers' fields in northern Colorado to assess the effect of duration of competition, weed density, weed competitiveness and crop density on irrigated seeded onion (Allium cepa L.). Duration of competition, expressed in thermal time units (TTUs) with a base of 7.2^C, explained 65% of the variation in the reduction of onion relative yield. The first significant reduction in onion relative yield was at 90 TTUs, averaged over weed load (weed density adjusted by competitiveness) and onion density. A polynomial multiple regression model, accounting for duration of competition and weed load, explained 75% of the variation in onion relative yield. A non-linear multiple regression model, combining a gamma function response of relative yield to duration of competition plus a hyperbolic response of relative yield to weed load, was as good a predictor and a better description of the system. Onion relative yield was more sensitive to the duration of weed competition than to weed load. Bulb size class distribution and the resulting average onion price were affected by weed competition. Polynomial models were used to describe changes in bulb size class proportions as a function of duration of competition, weed load and onion density.
Recent Literature on Lichens—197*

s of the 5th IAL Symposium. Lichens in Focus. Tartu University Press. [Abstract from ‘‘The 5th Symposium of the International Association for Lichenology’’ held in Tartu, Estonia, 16–21 August
Frequency and Time Domain Analysis of Epithelial Transport Regulation

The prime responsibility of most epithelia is to maintain plasma electrolyte and nonelectrolyte composition. Once a perturbation in plasma composition is sensed by osmo-, chemo-, or pressure receptors, a hormonal or neural signal can then initiate a series of intracellular events that ultimately modify the rate and sometimes even the direction of epithelial transport. To perform this function, an epithelium must be constructed so that it can actively and on demand absorb, secrete, or restrict the movements of substances between the plasma and external environment.