cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of gully erosion control on amphibian and reptile communities within riparian zones of channelized streams

Riparian zones of streams in northwestern Mississippi have been impacted by agriculture, channelization, channel incision, and gully erosion. Riparian gully formation has resulted in the fragmentation of remnant riparian zones within agricultural watersheds. One widely used conservation practice for controlling gully erosion is the installation of drop pipes. This practice involves placing earthen dams across eroding gullies and embedding a metal standpipe within the dam to convey water from the field to stream level. Installation of this structure halts gully erosion and incidentally replaces eroding gullies with riparian habitats. Previous research evaluating gully erosion control structures have not considered the ecological impacts of these conservation practices on amphibian and reptile communities. We compared amphibian and reptile communities among riparian sites containing actively eroding gullies and four riparian habitat types created by drop pipe installation. Amphibians and reptiles were sampled from four gullies and four sites of each drop pipe-created habitat type from 1994 to 1996. Amphibian and reptile diversity and abundance were the greatest in created habitat types with mean habitat areas > 1000 m 2 and mean pool volumes >420 m 3 . Amphibian and reptile diversity and abundance within the created riparian habitats were also positively correlated with hydrology. Our results suggest that the use of drop pipes to control gully erosion is capable of creating needed riparian wetlands for amphibian and reptile communities. Additionally, altering the installation design will increase the ecological benefits resulting from this conservation practice.
The course of toxicity in the pregnant mouse after exposure to the cyanobacterial toxin cylindrospermopsin: clinical effects, serum chemistries, hematology, and histopathology.

Cylindrospermopsin (CYN) is a toxin produced by a variety of fresh-water cyanobacterial species worldwide and induces significant adverse effects in both livestock and humans. This study investigated the course of CYN-induced toxicity in pregnant mice exposed daily during either the period of major organogenesis (gestation days [GD] 8–12) or fetal growth (GD13–17). Endpoints include clinical signs of toxicity, serum analyses to evaluate hepatic and renal function, histopathology of liver and kidney, and hematology. Study animals were administered 50 μg/kg CYN once daily by ip route and euthanized 24 h after 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 consecutive doses, or 6 or 13 d after the dosing period. The course of the CYN-induced effects was determined at all euthanasia times for the endpoints just outlined. Results indicated that CYN is a toxin, producing lethality in dams during the early part of gestation, significant weight loss, and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, tail tip, and peri-orbital tissues. Effects also ...
Thermal Decomposition of Solid Cyclotrimethylene Trinitramine

In this paper, we show how a traditional solid-state chemistry approach, applied to the essentially molecular problem of the energetic barrier for decomposition, gives qualitatively new results and...
The ultimate X-ray machine.

The article discusses x-ray lasers, focusing on the history and research use of the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) at the U.S. SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. Topics include the creation of unique states of matter with x-ray pulses on atoms, molecules, and solids, the laser's design, construction, and uses such as femtosecond crystallography, and the origins of the LCLS as a Cold War defensive weapon.
Career panel for pathology residents: going beyond the core curriculum.

Objectives: To increase awareness in pathology residents of different career choices and familiarize them with the job market. Methods: For 3 years, community pathologists and faculty members participated in half-day panels that residents attended voluntarily. Panelists presented their professional life experiences and shared advice. We showcase the implementation and resident evaluation of these panels. Results: Panelists were rated as outstanding or excellent for relevance. Residents chose the following themes as most useful: visualizing the array of practices (community, part-time, public health, and others), careers that follow unexpected courses and people taking advantage of opportunities as they happen, knowing that not having a definitive direction is frequent, and finding out what different practices look for when they are hiring. Conclusions: Career planning is a neglected aspect of pathology residency training, and panels in which pathologists present their experiences are helpful to prepare residents for what lies ahead. Residency training is focused on education in the particular specialty that the medical student has chosen; however, preparation for their careers beyond training is usually not at the forefront of the residency training curricula. Garcia et al 1 surveyed 163 recent internal medicine graduates and identified several themes that the residents thought should be incorporated in their training regarding career planning. These themes included (1) information about career options; (2)
The freshwater transport and dynamics of the western Maine coastal current

Observations in the Gulf of Maine, USA, were used to characterize the freshwater transport, temporal variability and dynamics of the western Maine coastal current. These observations included moored measurements, multiple hydrographic surveys, and drifter releases during April–July of 1993 and 1994. There is a strong seasonal signal in salinity and along-shore velocity of the coastal current, caused by the freshwater inputs of the rivers entering the western Gulf. Surface salinity within the coastal current during the spring freshet is typically 2 psu below ambient, and along-shore currents in the surface layer are directed southwestward at speeds of 0.10–0.20 ms � 1 , occasionally reaching 0.50 ms � 1 . The plume thickness is typically 10–20 m in water depths of 50–100 m, thus it is well isolated from the bottom over most of its areal extent. The along-coast freshwater transport within the plume varies considerably due to variations in wind stress, but on time scales of weeks to months it follows the variations of riverine input, with a time lag consistent with the advective velocity. Less than half of the transport of the coastal current is explained by the baroclinic gradient; the barotropic forcing associated with the larger-scale dynamics of the Gulf of Maine accounts for about 60% of the transport. The volume of freshwater transport in the coastal current exceeds the local riverine input of fresh water by 30%, suggesting a significant contribution of freshwater transport fromthe St. John River, 500 kmnortheastward. The measurements within the western Maine coastal current, however, indicate a significant decrease in the baroclinic transport of fresh water along the coast, with an e-folding scale of approximately 200 km. r 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
An examination of the predictive criterion-related validity of professional certification tests

This study examines the predictive criterion-related validity of a series of professional certification tests for water and wastewater management operators. Certification test data were obtained on 164 operators holding one of three jobs in water or wastewater management facilities. The certification test scores were broken down into four component scores and a total score. Criterion data consisted of performance evaluations obtained from the operator's supervisor, a self-rating from the operator, or both. Test scores were correlated with the job performance evaluations. The results indicated that scores on the certification tests were not related to rated job performance by job type, job level, source of performance evaluation, or component of job performance. The findings are discussed in the context of establishing an appropriate criterion against which to validate certification tests, and the practical problems of doing so in an applied setting.
Polycythemia vera disease burden: contributing factors, impact on quality of life, and emerging treatment options

Polycythemia vera (PV) is a chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by clonal expansion of a hematopoietic progenitor, erythrocytosis, often leukocytosis and/or thrombocytosis, and nearly always an activating mutation in Janus kinase 2 (JAK2). The PV symptom burden can be considerable, in part driven by small or large vessel thrombotic tendency, splenomegaly, fatigue, pruritus, and a chronic risk of disease transformation to myelofibrosis or acute myeloid leukemia. In addition, patients with PV have an increased risk of mortality compared with the general population that often results from cardiovascular complications or disease transformation. Further, healthcare utilization and costs are higher in patients with PV than noncancer controls. First-line therapy options for high-risk patients may effectively manage PV in some instances; however, some patients do not receive adequate benefit from current treatment options and experience a more severe disease burden as a result. This may be especially true for those patients who are resistant to or intolerant of hydroxyurea or interferon-based therapies. New treatments currently being investigated in phase 3 clinical trials may alleviate disease burden in this patient population.
The self-association of chymotrypsinogen.

Abstract The self-association of chymotrypsinogen A is reduced by decreasing the pH below pH 8 or by an increase in electrolyte level. The latter effect is correlated with ionic strength for several electrolytes with different properties. The self-association in H 2 O is almost independent of temperature. Substitution of D 2 O for H 2 O increases the extent of association. Conversion of the two reactive tyrosines to nitrotyrosine extends the zone of stability of the complex species to more acid pH. From these results it is concluded that the dominant stabilizing force is electrostatic in origin, but that hydrophobic forces also make a significant contribution.
Root hemiparasites in productive communities should attack competitive host, and harm them to make regeneration gaps

Demey et al. (2015, this issue) present evidence that root hemiparasitic plants can affect their host community through selectively parasitizing the species within it (with large differences between host species within functional groups), and by promoting seedling establishment through creating gaps. The hemiparasite needs to maintain the host for its water and nutrient supply, but also limit competition for light.
The effects of the absence of emergency medicine residents in an academic emergency department.

Objective: What are the quality effects of an emergency medicine (EM) residency, and the associated 24/7 supervision of residents by faculty, in an academic emergency department (ED)? The authors evaluated activity and quality indicators when there were no EM residents present. The hypothesis of the study was that there was no difference between the patient care provided by faculty supervising EM residents and that with an alternative model without EM residents (AbsenceEMResident). Methods: To support the weekly residency educational program (Thursday), EM residents are not scheduled clinically for a 24-hour period (ConfDay). Emergency medicine resident coverage (mean 62.7 hours) was replaced with incremental faculty and mid-level providers (mean 41.0 hours). This study was limited to adult patients (22,527 visits of 39,190 ED total) for six months (January-June 2001) and compared indicators for ConfDay (n = 23) with all other days (NotConfDay, n = 158). Results: Comparing ConfDay (2,842 visits) with NotConfDay (19,685 visits), there was no difference in mean daily visits, inpatient admissions, intensive care unit admissions, or emergency medical services arrivals. ConfDay decision-to-admit time (333 vs. 313 min, p = 0.03) and length of stay for admissions (490 vs. 445 min, p = 0.000) were longer, with no difference. for treat/release patients. There was no difference in the numbers of laboratory or radiology tests, consultations, unscheduled return visits, or patient satisfaction. Conclusion: During the study period, there was no measurable difference for most of the quality indicators studied. The AbsenceEMResident model is less efficient in admitting patients. Faculty supervision results in the same number of laboratory and radiology tests and consultations. Other specialties may consider this model if off-hours care becomes a concern.
Arthroscopic meniscal repair: “Inside-out” technique

Abstract Good results with the “inside-out” technique of meniscal repair depend on a number of factors: selection of the proper tears for repair, identification of the appropriate patients in whom to carry out repair, stimulation of the tear to generate a vigorous healing response, and stabilization by proper suturing methods. A number of different cannula systems have been developed, but close adherence to technical details are critical to success with any system.Vertical or oblique placement of sutures provide for a more anatomic and secure repair, and enough sutures on both the femoral and tibial surfaces are required for adequate stabilization. Serious complications can occur, most significantly damage to the popliteal neurovascular structures, the peroneal nerve, and the saphenous nerve and its branches. Thorough knowledge of knee anatomy is critical to avoid complications as is the use of accessory posterior corner incisions, the exposure of the posteromedial and posterolateral capsule, and the use of a popliteal retractor for safe retrieval of the repair needles.
Up-regulation of the peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptor expression and [(3)H]PK11195 binding in gerbil hippocampus after transient forebrain ischemia.

In mammalian CNS, the peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptor (PTBR) is localized on the outer mitochondrial membrane within the astrocytes and microglia. The main function of PTBR is to transport cholesterol across the mitochondrial membrane to the site of neurosteroid biosynthesis. The present study evaluated the changes in the PTBR density, gene expression and immunoreactivity in gerbil hippocampus as a function of reperfusion time after transient forebrain ischemia. Between 3 to 7 days of reperfusion, there was a significant increase in the maximal binding site density (Bmax) of the PTBR antagonist [ 3 H]PK11195 (by 94 ‐156%; P , 0.01) and PTBR mRNA levels (by 1.8- to 2.9-fold; P , 0.01). At 7 days of reperfusion, in the hippocampal CA1 (the brain region manifesting selective neuronal death), PTBR immunoreactivity increased significantly. Increased PTBR expression after transient forebrain ischemia may lead to increased neurosteroid biosynthesis, and thus may play a role in the ischemic pathophysiology. J. Neurosci. Res. 64:493‐500, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Computationally efficient algorithms for incorporation of hydrodynamic and excluded volume interactions in Brownian dynamics simulations: A comparative study of the Krylov subspace and Chebyshev based techniques

Excluded volume and hydrodynamic interactions play a central role in macromolecular dynamics under equilibrium and non-equilibrium settings. The high computational cost of incorporating the influence of hydrodynamic interaction in meso-scale simulation of polymer dynamics has motivated much research on development of high fidelity and cost efficient techniques. Among them, the Chebyshev polynomial based techniques and the Krylov subspace methods are most promising. To this end, in this study we have developed a series of semi-implicit predictor-corrector Brownian dynamics algorithms for bead-spring chain micromechanical model of polymers that utilizes either the Chebyshev or the Krylov framework. The efficiency and fidelity of these new algorithms in equilibrium (radius of gyration and diffusivity) and non-equilibrium conditions (transient planar extensional flow) are demonstrated with particular emphasis on the new enhancements of the Chebyshev polynomial and the Krylov subspace methods. In turn, the algorithm with the highest efficiency and fidelity, namely, the Krylov subspace method, is used to simulate dilute solutions of high molecular weight polystyrene in uniaxial extensional flow. Finally, it is demonstrated that the bead-spring Brownian dynamics simulation with appropriate inclusion of excluded volume and hydrodynamic interactions can quantitatively predict the observed extensional hardening of polystyrene dilute solutions over a broad molecular weight range.
In Vivo Suppression of Parathyroid Gland ATP Content by Hypercalcemia

We have measured the ATP content of individual parathyroid glands, thyroid tissue, and skeletal muscle from normal, hypocalcemic, hypercalcemic, and hypermagnesemic rats. Hypocalcemia was induced by the iv administration of calcitonin, hypercalcemia, and hypermagnesemia by the iv administration of isotonic CaCl2 and MgCl2 respectively. To prevent ATP loss, the intact tissues were frozen in situ and fixed in methanol at –20° C for several hours prior to dissection. ATP was measured by the luciferinluciferase method. Thirty minutes after the induction of hypercalcemia, a 20–30% decrease in parathyroid gland ATP was observed. Hypermagnesemia was accompanied by a lesser but qualitatively similar effect. No change was observed with hypocalcemia. The ATP concentrations of the thyroid gland and skeletal muscle were not altered in any of the experimental conditions. These data reveal a sensitive and selective influence of hypercalcemia on the energy metabolism of the parathyroid gland. (Endocrinology 90: 291, 1972)
Primary Extrarenal Nephrogenic Rest

We report a rare case of primary nephrogenic rest in the inguinal canal found incidentally on routine inguinal orchiopexy. A review of the literature and the implications of extrarenal nephrogenic rest are discussed. CASE REPORT An 8-month-old otherwise healthy white male with a nonpalpable left testis underwent diagnostic laparoscopy followed by inguinal exploration. On exploration the testis was found in the inguinal canal and a 1 cm. mass was found loosely attached to the epididymis. The tumor was excised and sent for frozen section analysis, and was diagnosed as a possible adenomatoid tumor of the epididymis. Orchiopexy was then performed without difficulty. Final pathological diagnosis was extrarenal nephrogenic rest, which was confirmed by the National Wilms Tumor Pathology Center. Renal ultrasound was normal. Abdominal computerized tomography demonstrated a 2 mm. area of low attenuation in the left kidney and a 3 mm. lymph node around the left renal vein, which was unchanged 6 months later. Due to the potential for malignant transformation, it was decided to follow this patient closely with ultrasound every 6 months for 3 years. DISCUSSION
Exposures and risks of dioxin in the U.S. food supply

Abstract Dietary exposure and risk to background levels of dioxin in food have been evaluated using the results of recent food analyses. Meat and fish are identified as the major source of dietary exposure to dioxin. These estimates are compared to estimates developed using environmental modeling techniques and results of adipose tissue analyses.
High-level expression and purification of rat monoamine oxidase A (MAO A) in Pichia pastoris: Comparison with human MAO A

Abstract The high-level heterologous expression in Pichia pastoris , purification and characterization of recombinant membrane-bound rat liver monoamine oxidase A (MAO A) are described. A 1-L culture of cells produces ∼700 U of rat MAO A activity. The rat MAO A activity is found in outer mitochondrial membrane of the cell. Using a modification of the human MAO A purification procedure, ∼200 mg of recombinant rat MAO A is purified in a 43% yield and exhibits a molecular weight of ∼60,000 kDa on SDS–PAGE. The purified enzyme contains a covalently bound FAD and forms a N(5) flavocyanine adduct on inhibition by clorgyline. Edman sequencing shows that the amino terminus of rat MAO A is blocked at an N-terminal threonyl residue. The purified rat enzyme exhibits a higher thermal stability than does purified human MAO A. Compared with human MAO A, rat MAO A oxidizes serotonin or kynuramine with twofold higher k cat / K m values, oxidizes phenethylamine with a 6.7-fold higher catalytic efficiency and benzylamine with a ∼40-fold higher catalytic efficiency. Although ∼90% identical in sequence to human MAO A, rat MAO A is a more efficient catalyst for amine neurotransmitter oxidation.
Abstract LB-317: Interactive pipeline for reproducible genomics analyses

Automated Genomics Analysis (AGA) is a program to analyze high-throughput genomic data sets, such as Affymetrix gene expression arrays. The software implements an easy to use, point and click, guided pipeline to combine, define and compare datasets, and customize their outputs. Batch correction techniques are implemented to combine data sets. Options to save plots, tables and data are available throughout the analysis, and log files containing the R script run are also generated to facilitate reproducible analyses. The software has been applied to gene expression measurements from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). It has batch corrected several public domain microarray HNSCC datasets, facilitating accurate comparison of subtypes such as HPV status. Moreover, current extensions enable users to interactively perform reproducible genomics analysis using clinical covariates in RNA sequencing data from TCGA. Citation Format: Michael Considine, Hilary S. Parker, Yingying Wei, Xiao X. Xia, Leslie Cope, Michael F. Ochs, Elana J. Fertig. Interactive pipeline for reproducible genomics analyses. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-317. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-LB-317
The Influence of Yolk Color Intensity Upon Yolk Shadow Values, Albumen Quality and Yolk Color Index — Deposition and Color Intensity of Abdominal Fat of Pullet Carcasses

Abstract INTRODUCTION IN ALL sections of the country shell eggs are being produced under different, effective feeding and management programs. These programs contribute to the development of egg yolks that vary considerably in color intensity. It has long been known that the color intensity of egg yolks can be rapidly changed when the pullet consumes graded levels of different pigments. From the time of lay until the eggs reach the hands of the consumer, it is possible that these eggs are candled several times. If the egg candler unwillfully neglects the variations in yolk color, then certain shell eggs would be either graded erronously high or low. Parker et al. (1926) observed a correlation between yolk color and yolk shadow. Almquist (1933) indicated a relationship between yolk shadow and yolk color when there is a wide range of yolk colors, but very little relationship midway of the range. Botsford (1940) reported…
Patterns of current use of tobacco products among U.S. high school students for 2000-2012--findings from the National Youth Tobacco Survey.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess patterns and trends of tobacco use among high school students to better understand which products are used individually or concurrently. Methods Data from the National Youth Tobacco Survey from 2000 through 2012 were used to assess patterns and trends of current tobacco use (cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and other tobacco products) among U.S. high school students. We assessed use of products individually and concurrently. Results During 2000–2012, overall linear declines were observed in current use of any tobacco product from 33.6% to 20.4% ( p p p Conclusions During 2000–2012, the most significant overall decline observed was for students who reported smoking only cigarettes. The results suggest that more data on the use of multiple tobacco products, not just cigarettes, is needed to guide tobacco prevention and control policies and programs.
Attachment of the potato leafhopper to soybean plant surfaces as affected by morphology of the pretarsus

The pulvilli of the potato leafhopper, Empoasca fabae (Harris), seem to provide a suitable mechanism for the attachment of the insect to smooth leaf surfaces. Based on morphological structure of the pretarsal and direct observations, we propose that primary orientation of the leafhoppers on smooth surfaces is achieved through a series of motions involving mainly the pulvilli. The highly irregular surface produced by the trichomes of pubescent soybean cultivars impedes normal attachment for feeding or oviposition. This impediment explains in part the near immunity of pubescent soybean and the converse susceptibility of glabrous soybean plants to the potato leafhopper. Resume Influence de la morphologie des pretarses sur la fixation d'Empoasca fabae sur les feuilles de soja Les pulvilli d'Empoasca fabae paraissent fournir un mecanisme convenable pour la fixation des insectes aux surfaces lisses des feuilles. En nous basant sur la structure morphologique des pretarses et sur des observations directes, nous suggerons que l'orientation primaire sur des surfaces lisses est realisee a partir de mouvements concernant surtout les pulvilli. La surface des cultivars pubescents de soja, rendue tres accidentee par la presence des trichomes, empeche une fixation normale permettant l'alimentation et la ponte. Cet obstacle explique en partie la quasi immunite des sojas pubescents et, a l'inverse, la sensibilite des sojas glabres aux attaques d'E. fabae.
Correction of drifts in the measurements of the Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System scanning thermistor bolometer instruments on the Terra and Aqua satellites

The Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) is an investigation into the role of clouds and radiation in the Earth's climate system. Four CERES scanning thermistor bolometer instruments are currently in orbit. Flight model 1 (FM1) and 2 (FM2) are aboard the Earth Observing System (EOS) Terra satellite and FM3 and FM4 are aboard the EOS Aqua satellite. Terra was launched in December 1999 and Aqua in May 2002. Both satellites are in high inclination near-polar, sun synchronous orbits. Terra crosses the equator at 10:30 am local time in the descending portion of the orbit. Aqua ascends across the equator at 1:30 pm local time. Each CERES instrument on Terra and Aqua measures in three broadband radiometric regions: the shortwave (0.3 - 5.0 micrometers), total (0.3 - >100 micrometers), and window (8 - 12 micrometers). Several vicarious analyses have been developed to aid in monitoring the health and stability of the instruments' radiometric measurements. One analysis is a three-channel inter-comparison of the radiometric channel measurements for each instrument. This procedure can derive an estimate of the shortwave portion of the total channel radiance measurement. A second analysis compares temporally synchronized nadir measurements for each sensor of two instruments on the same platform. The three-channel inter-comparison along with the direct comparison and onboard internal calibrations have been used to identify and correct drifting in the measurements of the CERES instruments. Although these drifts and the correction of the measurements have been previously documented, this paper is a continuation of the efforts to quantify and correct drifting in the measurements using ground-processing software. Previous papers only reported drift correction to the CERES instruments on the Terra platform. In addition to the Terra instruments, this paper documents drift correction to the CERES instruments on the Aqua platform.
The Alkylated Imino Sugar, n-(n-Nonyl)-Deoxygalactonojirimycin, Reduces the Amount of Hepatitis B Virus Nucleocapsid in Tissue Culture

n-(n-Nonyl)-deoxygalactonojirimycin (n,n-DGJ), an alkylated imino sugar, reduces the amount of HBV DNA produced within the stably transfected HBV-producing HepG2.2.15 line in culture and is under consideration for development as a human therapeutic. n,n-DGJ does not appear to inhibit HBV DNA polymerase activity or envelop antigen production (A. Mehta, S. Carrouee, B. Conyers, R. Jordan, T. Butters, R. A. Dwek, and T. M. Block, Hepatology 33:1488-1495, 2001), and the mechanism of antiviral action is unknown. In this study, the step in the virus life cycle affected by n,n-DGJ was explored. Using Northern analysis and immunoprecipitation with anti-HBc antibody, we found that, under conditions in which cell viability was not affected but viral DNA production was substantially reduced, neither the amount of HBV transcription products nor the core polypeptide was detectably reduced. However, the pregenomic RNA, endogenous polymerase activity, and core polypeptide sedimenting in sucrose gradients with a density consistent with that of assembled nucleocapsids were significantly less in the HepG2.2.15 cells incubated with n,n-DGJ. These data suggest that n,n-DGJ either prevents the maturation of HBV nucleocapsids or destabilizes the formed nucleocapsids. Although the cellular and viral mediators of this inhibition are not known, depletion of nucleocapsid has been attributed to some other compounds as well as interferon's mechanism of anti-HBV action. The similarities and differences between this alkylated imino sugar and these other mediators are discussed.
Low cost and high performance screen laminate regenerator matrix

A laminate screen matrix regenerator with 47 elements has been designed, analyzed, fabricated and tested. The laminate was fabricated from stainless steel screen sheets that were stacked on top of each other at certain angular orientation and then bonded at high temperature and pressure environment utilizing a sintering process. This laminate is a porous structure media with highly repeatable properties that can be controlled by varying mesh size, weave type, wire size and laminate sheet to sheet orientation. The flow direction in relation to the weave plan can be varied by cutting a cylindrical or rectangular laminate element along or across the weave. The regenerator flow resistance, thermal conductance losses, dead volume, surface area and heat transfer coefficient are analyzed. Regenerator cost and performance comparison data between the conventional widely used method of stacked screens and the new stacked laminate matrix regenerator is discussed. Also, a square stainless steel screen laminate was manufactured in a way which permits gas to flow along the screen wire instead of across it.
FORUM: Planning ahead for the global warming

Global warming is an ongoing issue, which will require continuous dialogue for years to come among scientists, engineers, policy-makers, investors and the public. This opinion paper argues that the better we understand the issue, the wider the public awareness is and the wiser we will be in planning ahead to minimise or prevent the adverse impacts and save the earth for the long run.
Effects of Salinity on Hatching and Post‐Hatch Survival of the Australian Red Claw Crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus

Hatching rate and post-hatch survival of Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus decreased with an increase in seawater salinity. An LC50 of approximately 11 g/L was determined for juvenile survival in seawater through 15 d. Sodium chloride salinity levels as low as 1 g/L killed all crayfish within 15 d. Tolerance of young red claw to higher levels of seawater salinity than sodium chloride salinity may he due to the concentration of other ions in seawater.
Plasma β Scaling of Anisotropic Magnetic Field Fluctuations in the Solar Wind Flux Tube

Based on various observations, it has been suggested that at 1 AU, solar wind consists of "spaghetti"-like magnetic field structures that have the magnetic topology of flux tubes. It is also observed that the plasma fluctuation spectra at 1 AU show a plasma β dependence. Reconciling these two sets of observations and using the Invariance Principle, Bhattacharjee et al. suggested that the plasma inside every flux tube may become unstable with respect to pressure-driven instabilities and gives rise to fluctuation spectra that depend on the local plasma β. The present work is the first direct numerical simulation of such a flux tube. We solve the full magnetohydrodynamic equations using the DEBS code and show that if the plasma inside the flux tube is driven unstable by spatial inhomogeneities in the background plasma pressure, the observed nature of the fluctuating power spectra agrees reasonably well with observations, as well as the analytical prediction of Bhattacharjee et al.
Economic Stress, Coercive Family Process, and Developmental Problems of Adolescents

We propose a model of family conflict and coercion that links economic stress in family life to adolescent symptoms of internalizing and externalizing emotions and behaviors. The 180 boys and 198 girls in the study were living in intact families in the rural Midwest, an area characterized by economic decline and uncertainty. Theoretical constructs in the model were measured using both trained observer and family member reports. These adolescents and their parents were interviewed each year for 3 years during the seventh, eighth, and ninth grades. Our theoretical model proposes that economic pressure experienced by parents increases parental dysphoria and marital conflict as well as conflicts between parents and children over money. High levels of spousal irritability, coupled with coercive exchanges over money matters, were expected to be associated with greater hostility in general by parents toward their children. These hostile/coercive exchanges were expected to increase the likelihood of adolescent emotional and behavioral problems. Overall, results were consistent with the proposed model. Moreover, the hypothesized processes applied equally well to the behavior of mothers and fathers, as well as sons and daughters.
Dataplan: An interface generator for database semantics

A model system (called DATAPLAN) is proposed for generation, access, and control of a shared database by casual users in their own terminology. The DATAPLAN system achieves this goal by planning a dialog which hierarchically defines the possible universe of discourse where casual users can communicate with the database. The plan is executed on the domains of hierarchical semantics, and controlled by pattern matching with a goal and generative backtracking mechanism. To ensure flexible and smooth communication of casual users with the shared database, the system generates individualized user class ''fuzzy'' interfaces. They are composed of multiplex associations of the attributes and values of the shared database with those of casual user classes in varying degrees.
Transmit beamforming for EIRP-limited MIMO systems based on golay sequence

We study a transmit beamforming for multiple antenna systems under the per-antenna power and the equivalent isotropic radiation power (EIRP) constraints. Finding the optimal beamforming vector maximizing SNR in such case is known to be NP-hard, and its semi-definite programming (SDP) approximation can be still complex due to the large number of the inequality constraints. This work considers a low complexity transmit beamforming technique, called Golay beamforming, based on the structured codebook consisting of the Golay sequences with the bounded EIRP guarantee. We discuss the specific structure and the performance bounds of the Golay beamforming, and propose the weighted Golay beamforming which can further improve the received SNR by using a specific set of the weighted Golay sequences which enjoys the same bounded low EIRP. Numerical results show that the proposed Golay beamforming provides an efficient low complexity solution with the graceful performance degradation under moderate EIRP constraints, and can be further improved by the weighted Golay beamforming.
Intracerebral des-tyrosine-γ-endorphin inhibits methylphenidate induced locomotor activity

Abstract Des-tyrosine-γ-endorphin (DTγE) administered directly into the nucleus accumbens inhibited the locomotor activity that follows the intraaccumbens injection of methylphenidate. In contrast, when DTγE was injected into the nucleus accumbens it had no effect on the locomotor behavior elicited by the direct injection of dopamine into the nucleus accumbens. These results suggest an interaction of DTγE with presynaptic rather than postsynaptic dopaminergic systems.
Histochemical Applications of Two Phenanthridinium Compounds

The fluorescent compounds ethidium monoazide and ethidium bromide were found to react intensely with nucleic acids of fixed, paraffin embedded tissues of rat and mouse. For routine staining, 10-5 M solutions of ethidium bromide and its monoazide analogue were virtually identical in their reactions. Fresh frozen sections of the tissues reacted in the same manner as fixed, paraffin embedded samples. Fluorescence of DNA and RNA in rat pancreas could be selectively abolished by taking advantage of the greater sensitivity of RNA to acid hydrolysis. Hydrolysis in aqueous solutions (1 N HCl at 55-60 C) abolished RNA fluorescence in 5 min, whereas 20 min or longer were required to destroy DNA fluorescence. DNA fluorescence was selectively abolished by 3 hr in 0.1 N HCl in anhydrous methanol while the RNA remained unaffected. Rat pancreas stained with the 10-5 M ethidium compounds below pH 5.0 showed reduced RNA fluorescence, but the DNA continued to fluoresce brightly at pH 0.6. Reducing the pH of the staining so...
Particle Size and Monomer Partitioning in Microemulsion Polymerization. 1. Calculation of the Particle Size Distribution

Exact analytical expressions are derived for the particle size and molecular weight distributions formed in microemulsion polymerization. These results follow directly from a mechanistic model of the polymerization reaction which has been quantitatively validated in kinetic studies. An additional mild assumption regarding radical exit is necessary, and it is assumed there is no particle coalescence. The theoretical distributions are used to simulate results from quasielastic light scattering and gel permeation chomatography. The shape of the predicted particle size distributions and the effect of initiator concentration, microemulsion composition, and conversion on the average particle size all agree with experiment.
A technique for processing coronary hemodynamic data with a small hybrid computing system

Abstract This report describes the program for utilizing a small hybrid computing system to process coronary arterial flow and pressure signals obtained from chronically instrumented, conscious animals and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the hybrid approach. Extensive analog preprocessing using parallel logic facilitates formation of data during the experiment and minimizes later editing. Moreover, it allows the digital portion of the program to be much smaller and more general than similar applications using only digital systems. Final output consists of an ink-jet recording of the analog signals, a printout of the digital results, and CalComp plots.
SU‐E‐T‐376: Report on Use of a Methodology for Commissioning and Quality Assurance of a VMAT System

Introduction: Results of use of methodology for VMAT commissioning and quality assurance, utilizing both control point tests and dosimetric measurements are presented. Methods: A generalizable, phantom measurement approach is used to characterize the accuracy of the measurement system. Correction for angular response of the measurement system and inclusion of couch structures are used to characterize the full range gantry angles desirable for clinical plans. A dose based comprehensive daily QA measurement approach is defined. Results: Agreement in the static vs. VMAT picket fence control point test was better than 0.5 mm. Control point tests varying gantry rotation speed, leaf speed and dose rate, demonstrated agreement with predicted values better than 1%. Angular dependence of the MatriXX array, varied over a range of 0.94 –1.06, with respect to the calibration condition. Phantom measurements demonstrated central axis dose accuracy for un‐modulated four field box plans was =2.5 % vs. 1% with and without angular correction respectively with better results for VMAT (0.4%) vs. IMRT (1.6%) plans. Daily QA results demonstrated average agreement of all three chambers within 0.4% over 9 month period with no false positives at a 3% threshold. Conclusions: The methodology described is simple in design and characterizes both the inherit limitations of the measurement system as well at the dose based measurements that may be directly related to patient plan QA.
Profiles in Exhaustion and Pomposity: the Everyday Life of Komsomol cadres in the 1920s

The article examines the daily lives of Young Communist League (Komsomol) cadres in the 1920s argue that their ability to establish local authority through consent was often undermined by their everyday conditions. The article treats the emergence of the Komsomol’s nomenklatura and cadre appointment system after the Russian civil war, cadre workload, working conditions, health, attitudes, and the Komsomol leadership’s efforts to subordinate cadre malfeasance and corruption through public scandal. The article demonstrates that without a sturdy material base upon which to generate consent, local Komsomol cadres often relied on domination to exert their authority over their rank and file members and to some extent the local population. This reliance ultimately perpetuated itself. The more cadres employed coercion, the more the means of consent atrophied, which led them to turn time and again to domination. The use of domination over consent had grave implications on the nature of Bolshevik rule. Often Komsomol cadres were the only representative of the Soviet state in rural localities, and their methods of garnering authority were representative of prevailing trends of Bolshevik governance throughout the 1920s.
5-Hydroxytryptamine: A Cytospecific Growth Stimulator of Cultured Fibroblasts

5-Hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) in micromolar amounts increased the growth of fibroblasts in culture while not affecting five other cell lines. Serotonin appeared to shorten the lag phase of cell growth. The effect was less when serotonin was added to the fibroblast culture after the initial 24-hour period. The two functional groups of the serotonin molecule were required for growth enhancement. Serotonin in millimolar concentrations was toxic to fibroblasts.
Quantization and stability of bumblebee electrodynamics

The quantization of a vector model presenting spontaneous breaking of Lorentz symmetry in flat Minkowski spacetime is discussed. The Stueckelberg trick of introducing an auxiliary field along with a local symmetry in the initial Lagrangian is used to convert the second-class constraints present in the initial Lagrangian to first-class ones. An additional deformation is employed in the resulting Lagrangian to handle properly the first-class constraints, and the equivalence with the initial model is demonstrated using the BRST invariance of the deformed Lagrangian. The framework for performing perturbation theory is constructed and the structure of the Fock space is discussed. Despite the presence of ghost and tachyon modes in the spectrum of the theory, it is shown that one can implement consistent conditions to define a unitary and stable reduced Fock space. Within the restricted Fock space, the free model turns out to be equivalent to the Maxwell electrodynamics in the temporal gauge.
Modified method for tuber glycoalkaloid and leaf glycoalkaloid analysis

A widely employed, comprehensive method exists for the determination of tuber total glycoalkaloids (TTGA). This method, which consists of a bisolvent extraction, preparation, and purification of aglycones and subsequent titration, was not acceptable for quantification of leaf total glycoalkaloids (LTGA). A modification of an existing extraction procedure was developed and tested. When the original bisolvent and the newly developed acetic acid extractions were contrasted percent recovery of a-solanine from leaf tissue was 19–27% and 91–97%, respectively. This new procedure was easily adapted for TTGA analysis and demonstrated improved recovery of α-solanine from tuber tissue when compared with the bisolvent extraction.
Simple oligomers as antimicrobial peptide mimics

New approaches to antibiotic design are desperately needed. The design of simple oligomers that capture the shape and biological function of natural antimicrobial peptides could prove to be versatile and highly successful. We discuss the use of aromatic backbones to design facially amphiphilic (FA) β-sheet like structures which are potently antimicrobial. These oligomers capture the physiochemical properties of peptides like the Magainins and Defensins, which fold into specific conformations that are amphiphilic resulting in antimicrobial activity. However, natural peptides are expensive to prepare and difficult to produce on large scale. The design of polymers and oligomers that mimic the complex structures and remarkable biological properties of proteins is an important endeavor and provides attractive alternatives to the difficult synthesis of natural peptides. We therefore have designed a series of FA oligomers that are easy to prepare from inexpensive monomers. They adopt structures very reminiscent of amphiphilic β-sheets and have significant activity with minimal inhibitory concentrations at 6 h in the low microgram per ml range (μM to nM). They are active against a broad spectrum of bacteria including gram-positive and gram-negative as well as antibiotic resistant strains.
Rhythmic mid-temporal discharges. An electro-clinical study

Abstract This study is concerned with a rare EEG abnormality, the rhythmic bursts of 6 and 12/sec temporal lobe sharp waves, previously known as “psychomotor variant”. This discharge is seen mainly on the mid-temporal area, and appears most often in adolescents and young adults. Seizures (36%), major motor and psychomotor in type, vegetative complaints (60%), especially headache, and psychiatric disorders (46%) were the most common symptoms seen in these patients. Compared to a group with single temporal lobe sharp waves, these patients showed fewer major motor seizures but an equal incidence of psychomotor attacks. The semiological similarity of this disorder to the 6/sec spike and wave pattern was noted. The term “Rhythmic Mid-Temporal Discharges” (RMTD) is suggested for this EEG abnormality.
Survival of bundleless hair cells and subsequent bundle replacement in the Bullfrog's saccule

Our senses of hearing and balance depend upon hair cells, the sensory receptors of the inner ear. Millions of people suffer from hearing and balance deficits caused by damage to hair cells as a result of exposure to noise, aminoglycoside antibiotics, and antitumor drugs. In some species such damage can be reversed through the production of new cells. This proliferative response is limited in mammals but it has been hypothesized that damaged hair cells might survive and undergo intracellular repair. We examined the fate of bullfrog saccular hair cells after exposure to a low dose of the aminoglycoside antibiotic gentamicin to determine whether hair cells could survive such treatment and subsequently be repaired. In organ cultures of the bullfrog saccule a combination of time-lapse video microscopy, two-photon microscopy, electron microscopy, and immunocytochemistry showed that hair cells can lose their hair bundle and survive as bundleless cells for at least 1 week. Time-lapse and electron microscopy revealed stages in the separation of the bundle from the cell body. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of cultures fixed 2, 4, and 7 days after antibiotic treatment showed that numerous new hair bundles were produced between 4 and 7 days of culture. Further examination revealed hair cells with small repaired hair bundles alongside damaged remnants of larger surviving bundles. The results indicate that sensory hair cells can undergo intracellular self-repair in the absence of mitosis, offering new possibilities for functional hair cell recovery and an explanation for non-proliferative recovery.