cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Differential effect of pre- and postnatal androgen on the sexual behavior of intact and spayed female rats

Abstract Systematic evaluation was made of the differential effects of pie- and/or early postnatal TP on the somatic structures and male behavior capacity of intact and spayed female rats. Depending on the type of treatment, varying amounts of somatic modification resulted. Pre- plus postnatal TP produced females which possessed the full complement of male secondary organs as well as female internal structures. Thirty percent of the females receiving TP from 1–40 days of age were capable, when given TP during adulthood, of displaying ejaculatory patterns almost indistinguishable from that of normal males. In groups in which the postnatal treatment was combined with TP from Day 16 to Day 20 of gestation, the percentage of ejaculating subjects increased to 70. Females which received only prenatal TP did not ejaculate.
The impact of spatio-temporal focal plane array nonuniformity noise on target search and identification performance

Recent developments in infrared focal plane array technology have led to the wide use of staring sensors in many tactical scenarios. With all of its advancements, however, several noise sources remain present to degrade imagery and impede performance. Fixed pattern noise, arising from detector nonuniformities in focal plane arrays, is a noise source that can severely limit infrared imaging system performance. In addition, temporal noise, arising from frame to frame nonuniformities, can further hinder the observer from perceiving the target within the tactical scene and performing a target acquisition task. In this paper, we present a new method of simulating realistic spatial and temporal noise effects, derived from focal plane array statistics, on infrared imagery, and study their effect on the tasks of search and identification of a tank vehicle. In addition, we assess the utility of bad pixel substitution as a possible correction algorithm to mitigate these effects. First, tank images are processed with varying levels of fixed pattern and temporal noise distributions with differing percentage of highly noisy detectors lying outside the operability specification. Then, a series of controlled human perception experiments are performed using trained observers tasked to identify and search for tank targets, respectively, through the combinations of noise. Our results show promise for a relaxation of the operability specification in focal plane array development without severe degradation in task performance.
The Progressive Adaptation of a Georgian Isolate of African Swine Fever Virus to Vero Cells Leads to a Gradual Attenuation of Virulence in Swine Corresponding to Major Modifications of the Viral Genome

ABSTRACT African swine fever virus (ASFV) causes a contagious and often lethal disease of feral and domestic swine. Experimental vaccines derived from naturally occurring, genetically modified, or cell culture-adapted ASFV have been evaluated, but no commercial vaccine is available to control African swine fever (ASF). We report here the genotypic and phenotypic analysis of viruses obtained at different passages during the process of adaptation of a virulent ASFV field isolate from the Republic of Georgia (ASFV-G) to grow in cultured cell lines. ASFV-G was successively passaged 110 times in Vero cells. Viruses obtained at passages 30, 60, 80, and 110 were evaluated in vitro for the ability to replicate in Vero cells and primary swine macrophages cultures and in vivo for assessing virulence in swine. Replication of ASFV-G in Vero cells increased with successive passages, corresponding to a decreased replication in primary swine macrophages cultures. In vivo , progressive loss of virus virulence was observed with increased passages in Vero cells, and complete attenuation of ASFV-G was observed at passage 110. Infection of swine with the fully attenuated virus did not confer protection against challenge with virulent parental ASFV-G. Full-length sequence analysis of each of these viruses revealed significant deletions that gradually accumulated in specific areas at the right and left variable ends of the genome. Mutations that result in amino acid substitutions and frameshift mutations were also observed, though in a rather limited number of genes. The potential importance of these genetic changes in virus adaptation/attenuation is discussed. IMPORTANCE The main problem in controlling ASF is the lack of vaccines. Attempts to produce vaccines by adaptation of ASFV to cultured cell lines have been made. These attempts led to the production of attenuated viruses that conferred only homologous protection. Specifics regarding adaptation of these isolates to cell cultures have been insufficiently described. Details like the numbers of passages required to obtain attenuated viruses, genetic modifications introduced into the virus genomes along passages, and the extent of attenuation and induced protective efficacy are not readily available. In this study, we assessed the changes that lead to decreased growth in swine macrophages and to attenuation in swine. Loss of virulence, probably associated with limited replication in vivo , may lead to the lack of protective immunity in swine observed after challenge. This report provides valuable information that can be used to further the understanding of ASFV gene function, virus attenuation, and protection against infection.
5-Hydroxytryptaminergic receptor agonists: effects on neuropeptide Y potentiation of feeding and respiratory quotient

Abstract The objective of the present report was to characterize further the potential interactive effects of NPY and 5-HT on feeding and whole-body calorimetry. Specifically, several experiments examined the impact of various 5-HT receptor agonists on NPY stimulated eating and alterations in respiratory quotient (RQ). This included the 5-HT 1A/1B receptor agonist RU 24969, the 5-HT 1B/2C agonist TFMPP and the 5-HT 2A/2C agonist DOI. In feeding tests conducted at the onset of the dark cycle, RU 24969, TFMPP and DOI were administered 5 min prior to PVN injection of NPY and food intake was measured 1 h postinjection. The metabolic effects of NPY following similar pretreatment were monitored using an open-circuit calorimeter measuring the volume of oxygen consumed (VO 2 ), carbon dioxide produced (VCO 2 ) and RQ (VCO 2 /VO 2 ). PVN injection of NPY (50–100 pmol) potentiated feeding and evoked reliable increases in RQ. DOI (5–20 nmol), but not RU 24969 (5–20 nmol) or TFMPP (10–40 nmol), antagonized NPY induced eating and blocked the peptide's effects on RQ. These findings suggest that 5-HT 2A receptors within the PVN modulate NPY's effect on feeding and energy substrate utilization at the start of the nocturnal period.
Disturbance and recovery of trunk mechanical and neuromuscular behaviours following prolonged trunk flexion: influences of duration and external load on creep-induced effects

Trunk flexion results in adverse mechanical effects on the spine and is associated with a higher incidence of low back pain. To examine the effects of creep deformation on trunk behaviours, participants were exposed to full trunk flexion in several combinations of exposure duration and external load. Trunk mechanical and neuromuscular behaviours were obtained pre- and post-exposure and during recovery using sudden perturbations. Intrinsic trunk stiffness decreased with increasing flexion duration and in the presence of the external load. Recovery of intrinsic stiffness required more time than the exposure duration and was influenced by exposure duration. Reflexive trunk responses increased immediately following exposure but recovered quickly (∼2.5 min). Alterations in reflexive trunk behaviour following creep deformation exposures may not provide adequate compensation to allow for complete recovery of concurrent reductions in intrinsic stiffness, which may increase the risk of injury due to spinal instabi...
Simple scheme for light collection from large-area plastic scintillators

Abstract The design and performance of a large-area veto counter which has no light guide are described. A novel reflector scheme is used to increase the light collection efficiency. Principal features of the design are mechanical simplicity, low cost, and substantial variation of pulse height across the counter.
Comparison of Observed and Predicted First‐Pass Metabolism of Nortriptyline in Humans

The extent of first-pass metabolism of nortriptyline, calculated by comparing the areas under the plasma concentration-time curves following intravenous and oral dosing in six individuals, varied from 41 to 54%. Theoretically predicted values ranged from 41 to 61% based on a plasma flow model, indicating that the clearance takes place mainly from the plasma, which does not represent the whole blood concentration.
Charge Transport, Nanostructure, and the Mott Insulator-to-Metal Transition in Poly(3-hexylthiophene)

We carried out in situ optical spectroscopy measurements of gate-doped poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) using a polymer electrolyte dielectric. At low doping levels, hole polarons are present in two distinct environments: crystalline and amorphous phases of P3HT. As carrier concentration increases to a region corresponding to the insulator-to-metal transition in transistor measurements, the two polaron states merge into a single state. We take this spectroscopic signature as evidence for strong carrier screening which removes the energetic barrier for polaron transfer from crystalline to amorphous domains; this is responsible for the insulator-to-metal transition in highly doped P3HT.
Lovastatin and Visual Changes

Excerpt To the Editor:Lovastatin is an effective and well-tolerated medication for patients with hypercholesterolemia (1). A potent inhibitor of the rate-limiting enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl ...
Posterior brain white matter abnormalities in older adults with probable mild cognitive impairment

Objective: Much of the mild cognitive impairment (MCI) neuroimaging literature has exclusively focused on regions associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Little research has examined white matter abnormalities of other brain regions, including those associated with visual processing, despite evidence that other brain abnormalities appear in these regions in early disease stages. Method: Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was utilized to examine participants (n = 44) that completed baseline imaging as part of a longitudinal healthy aging study. Participants were divided into two groups based on scores from the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), a brief screening tool for MCI. Participants who scored <26 were defined as “probable MCI” while those who scored ≥26 were labeled cognitively healthy. Two DTI indices were analyzed including fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD). DTI values for white matter in the lingual gyrus, cuneus, pericalcarine, fusiform gyrus, and all four lobes were compared usin...
Huntington's disease: prospects for neuroprotective therapy 10 years after the discovery of the causative genetic mutation.

Purpose of reviewTen years of intensive research are now beginning to bring candidate neuroprotective therapies to clinical trials. This review describes recent progress in basic, preclinical, and clinical research that underlies current and potential neuroprotective trials.Recent findingsBasic rese
The effect of natal experience on habitat preferences

Several important problems in ecology, evolution and conservation biology are affected by habitat selection in dispersing animals. Experience in the natal habitat has long been considered a potential source of variation in the habitat preferences displayed when dispersers select a post-dispersal habitat. However, the taxonomic breadth of this phenomenon is underappreciated, in part because partially overlapping, taxon-specific definitions in the literature have discouraged communication. Here, we explore the phenomenon of natal habitat preference induction (NHPI) and demonstrate that NHPI has been observed in a broad range of animal taxa. We consider the potential adaptive significance of NHPI, identify implications of its occurrence for problems in evolution, ecology and conservation biology, and encourage further study of this phenomenon.
Structure and conformations of 1,4-Cycloheptadiene, 1,3-cycloheptadiene and 1,3,5-cycloheptatriene

Abstract The fully optimized structures of the molecules 1,4-cycloheptadiene, 1,3-cycloheptadiene and 1,3,5-cycloheptatriene have been determined by ab initio gradient calculations at the double zeta level. The most stable conformation of 1,4-cycloheptadiene has C2 symmetry, but a second form with Cs symmetry exists at approximately 10 kcal mol−1 higher energy. The most stable form of 1,3-cycloheptadiene has Cs symmetry with all but one carbon atom approximately in the same plane. This form was found to be 2.5 kcal mol−1 more stable than a form with C2 symmetry. A third stable conformer, also of C2 symmetry, exists at considerably higher energy, 1,3,5-Cycloheptatriene exists in a boat form with Cs symmetry with a barrier to inversion through the planar form of 5.7 kcal mol−1. The most important factors determining the ring conformations are angle strain and non-bonded interactions, with conjugation effects relatively small. For molecules with adjacent methylene groups, the most important factor seems to be adjustment of the torsional angles to minimize the interaction between these groups.
Paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis presenting as a neurological emergency: a case report.

Introduction Paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis remains a challenging clinical diagnosis with poor outcome if it is not recognized and treated early in the course of the disease.
Cross Binary Simulation Points

Architectures are usually compared by running the same workload on each architecture and comparing performance. When a single compiled binary of a program is executed on many different architectures, techniques like SimPoint can be used to find a small set of samples that represent the majority of the program's execution. Architectures can be compared by simulating their behavior on the code samples selected by SimPoint, to quickly determine which architecture has the best performance. Architectural design space exploration becomes more difficult when different binaries must be used for the same program. These cases arise when evaluating architectures that include ISA extensions, and when evaluating compiler optimizations. This problem domain is the focus of our paper. When multiple binaries are used to evaluate a program, one approach is to create a separate set of simulation points for each binary. This approach works reasonably well for many applications, but breaks down when the simulation points chosen for the different binaries emphasize different parts of the program's execution. This problem can be avoided if simulation points are selected consistently across the different binaries, to ensure that the same parts of program execution are represented in all binaries. In this paper we present an approach that finds a single set of simulation points to be used across all binaries for a single program. This allows for simulation of the same parts of program execution despite changes in the binary due to ISA changes or compiler optimizations
OpenTag: Privacy Protection for RFID

Radio frequency identification's use in retail is good for pervasive computing, but raises considerable privacy issues. OpenTag programmable tags address privacy issues while remaining fully compatible with the supply-chain RFID standard.
Patterns and correlates of human–elephant conflict around a south Indian reserve

Success stories in Indian conservation also carry opportunity costs in the form of human–wildlife conflicts, especially to people living in close proximity with wildlife. In India, human–wildlife conflict is a serious challenge to wildlife conservation, which needs a much-improved scientific and social understanding. In this study, I assess the patterns and correlates of human–elephant conflicts around Nagarahole National Park, southern India. I hypothesised that human and livestock demographic variables, and factors such as cropping patterns, availability of irrigated land around the national park, and protected area frontage to be the underlying correlates of conflict. Using applications and documents filed with the wildlife department by affected farmers during the period 2006–2009, I analysed crops affected, compensation payments made by the Government, spatio-temporal patterns of conflict and identified the key correlates of human–elephant conflict. 98.8% of the conflict incidences occurred in villages that lie within 6 km from the national park boundary. Of the 26 crop types affected by elephants, finger millet, maize, cotton, paddy and sugarcane formed 86.34% of the total crop losses. Conflict frequencies were highest during August–November, a period when there was a decrease in rainfall and important crops such as finger millet, maize and paddy were ripening. Multiple linear regression results suggest that villages with higher protected area frontage and unirrigated land were key variables underlying conflict frequency. However, results from this study suggests that there are other probable factors such as elephant behaviour, movement patterns and/or maintenance of physical barriers which could be more important determinants of conflict.
A High-Throughput Splicing Assay Identifies New Classes of Inhibitors of Human and Yeast Spliceosomes

The spliceosome is the macromolecular machine responsible for pre-mRNA splicing, an essential step in eukaryotic gene expression. During splicing, myriad subunits join and leave the spliceosome as it works on the pre-mRNA substrate. Strikingly, there are very few small molecules known to interact with the spliceosome. Splicing inhibitors are needed to capture transient spliceosome conformations and probe important functional components. Such compounds may also have chemotherapeutic applications, as links between splicing and cancer are increasingly uncovered. To identify new splicing inhibitors, we developed a high-throughput assay for in vitro splicing using a reverse transcription followed by quantitative PCR readout. In a pilot screen of 3080 compounds, we identified three small molecules that inhibit splicing in HeLa extract by interfering with different stages of human spliceosome assembly. Two of the compounds similarly affect spliceosomes in yeast extracts, suggesting selective targeting of conserved components. By examining related molecules, we identified chemical features required for the activity of two of the splicing inhibitors. In addition to verifying our assay procedure and paving the way to larger screens, these studies establish new compounds as chemical probes for investigating the splicing machinery.
Spatial dynamic emergent hierarchies simulation and assessment system

Abstract Over the last decade, concerns over the fragility of the earth's resources resulting from centuries of human-related activities have, like never before, captured the attention of environmental policy and decision-makers. To simulate an ecosystem using computer modelling will require a design which tends to emulate a natural system in its construction. This paper describes the development of a modeling framework referred to as Spatial Dynamic Emergent Hierarchies Simulation and Assessment System (SDEHSAS), a tool for the evaluation and simulation of environmental and ecological processes. We discuss the four key technological areas of the assessment system: data base management systems (DBMS); DBMS integration pathway; intra-system communications; and self-adapting models currently being developed as methods for solving the spatial and temporal scale as well as multiple model interactions. SDEHSAS provides a road map for the development of advanced models that can be used with data bases representing different environmental conditions, running on distributed systems and having the capacity of tracking process interactions. SDEHSAS can provide modelers with a common protocol that will allow the development of complex spatial simulations to be addressed more easily and with less trouble.
B cell neoplasms and occupational asbestos exposure.

To evaluate the etiologic role of asbestos exposure in B cell neoplasms, we compared the estimated level of occupational exposure to asbestos of cases with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL; N = 429) and multiple myeloma (MM; N = 698) with that of controls (N = 1,683). Cases were identified through four population-based cancer registries in the U.S. and controls were randomly selected from the same geographic areas. Exposure to asbestos was assessed by classifying each job held by a subject into one of four categories, based on the estimated intensity of exposure to asbestos. Evidence was found for a modest increasing risk of CLL with increasing asbestos exposure. Relative to persons with no known occupational exposure to asbestos, the risk for CLL was 1.1 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.8-1.6) for low, 1.2 (CI = 0.8-1.8) for medium, and 1.4 (CI = 0.8-2.3) for high peak asbestos exposure (p value for trend = 0.13). The association was strongest in white study subjects and in those individuals exposed 10 to 19 years prior to the interview. No association was observed between MM and occupational exposure to asbestos in the entire study population or within specific subgroups. Given the pattern of immunologic abnormalities that occur with increased frequency in asbestos-exposed persons, our observation of an association between occupational asbestos exposure and CLL deserves attention in subsequent studies.
IOS Resources, Electronic Cooperation and Performance: A Conceptual Model

In today's rapidly changing and highly competitive operating contexts, businesses are increasingly seeking cooperative, long-term inter-organizational relationships. Inter-organizational systems (IOS) are major enablers of inter-organizational cooperation. Drawing upon transaction costs economics theory and resource-based view as the theoretical frames, this study presents electronic cooperation value model, suggesting electronic cooperation as an intermediary/mediator between IOS resources and competitive advantage. In this study, technological and human IOS resources are investigated as predictors of electronic cooperation. Examined are four key dimensions of electronic cooperation including information sharing, action simplicity, joint action, and continuity. Electronic cooperation value model would be useful to both research and practice since the model explains how and why IOS resources contribute to electronic cooperation, which in turn, leads to competitive advantage.
Exploring Effective Methods for Simulating Damaged Structures With Geometric Variation: Toward Intelligent Failure Detection

Inaccuracies in the modeling assumptions about the distributional characteristics of the monitored signatures have been shown to cause frequent false positives in vehicle monitoring systems for high-risk aerospace applications. To enable the development of robust fault detection methods, this work explores the deterministic as well as variational characteristics of failure signatures. Specifically, we explore the combined impact of crack damage and manufacturing variation on the vibrational characteristics of beams. The transverse vibration and associated eigenfrequencies of the beams are considered. Two different approaches are used to model beam vibrations with and without crack damage. The first approach uses a finite difference approach to enable the inclusion of both cracks and manufacturing variation. The crack model used with both approaches is based on a localized decrease in the Young’s modulus. The second approach uses Myklestad’s method to evaluate the effects of cracks and manufacturing variation. Using both beam models, Monte Carlo simulations are used to explore the impacts of manufacturing variation on damaged and undamaged beams. Derivations are presented for both models. Conclusions are presented on the choice of modeling techniques to define crack damage, and its impact on the monitored signal, followed by conclusions about the distributional characteristics of the monitored signatures when exposed to random manufacturing variations. DOI: 10.1115/1.2188535
Assessment of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs): A new application of ultrasound imaging and vibration sonoelastography

Myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) are palpable hyperirritable nodules in skeletal muscle that are associated with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The goal of this study was to image MTrPs in the upper trapezius muscle using 2D gray scale ultrasound (US) and vibration sonoelastography (VSE) for differentiating the soft tissue characteristics of MTrPs compared to surrounding muscle. MTrPs appeared as hypoechoeic elliptically-shaped focal regions within the trapezius muscle on 2D US. Audio-frequency vibrations (100–250 Hz) were induced in the trapezius muscle of four volunteers with clinically identifiable MTrPs, and the induced vibration amplitudes were imaged using the color Doppler variance mode, and were further quantified using spectral Doppler analysis. Spectral Doppler analysis showed that vibration amplitudes were 27% lower on average within the MTrP compared to surrounding tissue (p<0.05). Color variance imaging consistently detected a focal region of reduced vibration amplitude, which correlated with the hypoechoeic region identified as an MTrP (r =0.76 for area). Real-time 2D US identifies MTrPs, and VSE is feasible for differentiating MTrPs from surrounding tissue. Preliminary findings show that MTrPs are hypoechoeic on 2D US and the relative stiffness of MTrPs can be quantified using VSE. Ultrasound offers a convenient, accessible and low-risk approach for identifying MTrPs and for evaluating clinical observations of palpable, painful nodules.
Kinetic analysis for optimization of DNA ligation reactions

Kinetic equations describing ligation of DNA to circular recombinant forms were developed and solved for four types of reactions: (a) a homogeneous population of singly restricted DNA fragments, (b) insertion of singly restricted insert into vector, (c) forced directional insertion of doubly restricted insert into vector, and (d) insertion of singly restricted insert into phosphatased vector. The effects of varying vector and insert sizes, starting concentrations, and phosphatase treatment on the yield of circular 1:1 recombinants were analyzed. Selected theoretical predictions were experimentally tested and verified. Our suggestions on optimizing ligation reactions in several cases are at variance with common practice. For example, optimum conditions in case (b) and (d) ligations are best specified as individual insert and vector concentrations rather than as insert/vector molar ratios, except in case (d) ligations involving very small insert size. In case (c) ligations, highest efficiencies are obtained when both vector and insert are at relatively low concentration.
THE CARDIAC OUTPUT AND CAROTID AND TIBIAL BLOOD PRESSURE OF THE TURKEY

The cardiac output of untreated mature male Broad Breasted Bronze (BBB) turkeys was determined by an isotope dilution technique using radioactive phosphorus (P32). A Geiger–Mueller tube was connected to a rate meter which in turn was connected to a moving graph to continuously record the indicator concentration, thus obtaining the initial dilution curve. Posterior tibial and common carotid arterial blood pressures were measured directly and were recorded simultaneously with the cardiac output determinations by means of two strain gauges connected to a recording polygraph.From the cardiovascular measurements systemic resistance was calculated. The mean cardiac output of the mature male BBB turkey was 231 ml per kg body weight0.734 per minute. The mean carotid hemodynamic parameters were: systolic BP, 302 mm Hg; diastolic BP, 204 mm Hg; and pulse pressure, 98 mm Hg. Heart rate was 149 beats per minute. The mean tibial hemodynamic parameters were; systolic BP, 286 mm Hg; diastolic BP, 200 mm Hg; and pulse pr...
New Cassini RADAR results for Saturn’s icy satellites

Abstract Cassini radar tracks on Saturn’s icy satellites through the end of the Prime Mission in 2008 have increased the number of radar albedo estimates from 10 ( Ostro et al., 2006 ) to 73. The measurements sample diverse subradar locations (and for Dione, Rhea, and Iapetus almost always use beamwidths less than half the target angular diameters), thereby constraining the satellites’ global radar albedo distributions. The echoes result predominantly from volume scattering, and their strength is thus strongly sensitive to ice purity and regolith maturity. The combination of the Cassini data set and Arecibo 13-cm observations of Enceladus, Tethys, Dione, Rhea ( Black et al., 2007 ), and Iapetus ( Black et al., 2004 ) discloses an unexpectedly complex pattern of 13-to-2-cm wavelength dependence. The 13-cm albedos are generally smaller than 2-cm albedos and lack the correlation seen between 2-cm and optical geometric albedos. Enceladus and Iapetus are the most interesting cases. We infer from hemispheric albedo variations that the E-ring has a prominent effect on the 13-cm radar “lightcurve”. The uppermost trailing-side regolith is too fresh for meteoroid bombardment to have developed larger-scale heterogeneities that would be necessary to elevate the 13-cm radar albedo, whereas all of Enceladus is clean and mature enough for the 2-cm albedo to be uniformly high. For, Iapetus, the 2-cm albedo is strongly correlated with optical albedo: low for the optically dark, leading-side material and high for the optically bright, trailing-side material. However, Iapetus’ 13-cm albedo values show no significant albedo dichotomy and are several times lower than 2-cm values, being indistinguishable from the weighted mean of 13-cm albedos for main-belt asteroids, 0.15 ± 0.10. The leading side’s optically dark contaminant must be present to depths of at least one to several decimeters, so 2-cm albedos can mimic the optical dichotomy; however, it does not have to extend any deeper than that. The fact that both hemispheres of Iapetus look Asteroid-like at 13 cm means that coherent backscattering itself is not nearly as effective as it is at 2 cm. Since Iapetus’ entire surface is mature regolith, the wavelength dependence must involve composition, not structure. Either the composition is a function of depth everywhere (with electrical loss much greater at depths greater than a decimeter or two), or the intrinsic electrical loss of some pervasive constituent is much higher at 13 cm than at 2 cm. Ammonia is a candidate for such a contaminant. If ammonia’s electrical properties do not depend on frequency, and if ammonia is globally much less abundant within the upper one or two decimeters than at greater depths, then coherent backscattering would effectively be shut down at 13 cm, explaining the Asteroid-like 13-cm albedo.
Conversion mechanism of nickel fluoride and NiO-doped nickel fluoride in Li ion batteries

The conversion mechanism of NiF2 and NiO-doped NiF2 during electrochemical cycling was investigated using a combination of structural analysis by ex situ X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and magnetic analysis by superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometry. It was observed that the conversion reactions in both cathode materials were partially reversible; however, they differ in their conversion rate. NiO-doped NiF2 exhibited enhanced electrochemical properties in terms of the conversion potential and reversibility due to the presence of a NiO phase, which has slightly higher electronic conductivity than NiF2. It is suggested that the NiO doping reduced the nucleation sites for Ni nanoparticles, subsequently enhancing the kinetics of the conversion reaction involving the growth of Ni particles formed during lithiation. The ex situ XRD and the magnetic hysteresis data (HC and MS) indicate that the average dimension of the Ni particles formed along with LiF in pristine NiF2 and NiO-doped NiF2 during the 1st lithiation was in the superparamagnetic regime, with 4–5 nm and 8–9 nm particle sizes, respectively. Although the particle size was decreased to the nanoscale, the original NiF2 phase was regenerated by re-lithiation.
Creep and Stress Rupture Behavior of Ti-24Al-11Nb

This work concerns the temperature and stress dependencies of the steady-state creep rate of a Ti-24Al-11Nb alloy in the temperature range between 593 and 760°C (1,100 and 1,400°F) and stress levels 137.9 to 275.8 MPa (20 to 40 ksi). Tests were conducted on both as-extruded and heat-treated specimens. A transition occurs in the creep curves at 704°C (1,300°F) and 206.9 MPa (30 ksi), indicating a creep mechanism change. Generally speaking, the fracture surface of as-extruded specimens shows a ductile transgranular fracture mechanism; a more ductile fracture mode is observed for heat-treated specimens.
Melanoma spheroid formation involves laminin-associated vasculogenic mimicry.

Melanoma is a tumor where virulence is conferred on transition from flat (radial) to three-dimensional (tumorigenic) growth. Virulence of tumorigenic growth is governed by numerous attributes, including presence of self-renewing stem-like cells and related formation of patterned networks associated with the melanoma mitogen, laminin, a phenomenon known as vasculogenic mimicry. Vasculogenic mimicry is posited to contribute to melanoma perfusion and nutrition in vivo; we hypothesized that it may also play a role in stem cell–driven spheroid formation in vitro. Using a model of melanoma in vitro tumorigenesis, laminin-associated networks developed in association with three-dimensional melanoma spheroids. Real-time PCR analysis of laminin subunits showed that spheroids formed from anchorage-independent melanoma cells expressed increased α4 and β1 laminin chains and α4 laminin expression was confirmed by in situ hybridization. Association of laminin networks with melanoma stem cell–associated nestin and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 also was documented. Moreover, knockdown of nestin gene expression impaired laminin expression and network formation within spheroids. Laminin networks were remarkably similar to those observed in melanoma xenografts in mice and to those seen in patient melanomas. These data indicate that vasculogenic mimicry–like laminin networks, in addition to their genesis in vivo, are integral to the extracellular architecture of melanoma spheroids in vitro, where they may serve as stimulatory scaffolds to support three-dimensional growth.
Normolipidemic Subjects With Low HDL Cholesterol Levels Have Altered HDL Subpopulations

Epidemiological studies have established that plasma concentration of HDL is inversely correlated with the risk of coronary heart disease, even in the absence of increased LDL cholesterol levels. We postulate that specific HDL subpopulations may be responsible for antiatherogenic properties of HDL. HDL subpopulations were quantitated by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis in 79 normolipidemic healthy male subjects. To eliminate the influence of diet, volunteers consumed an average American diet for 6 weeks. After the diet period, subjects were stratified according to their HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) levels to low HDL-C 0.91 35 or = 1.30 mmol/L (> or = 50 mg/dL) groups. Plasma triglycerides and insulin levels were in the normal range, but subjects with low HDL-C levels had higher concentrations of plasma triglycerides and insulin than subjects with medium or high HDL-C concentrations. The absolute concentration (mg/dL) of apoA-I in the largest alpha-migrating HDL subpopulation (alpha 1) was (P < .01) lower in the low HDL-C subjects compared with the medium and high HDL-C groups. The relative concentration (percent distribution) of apoA-I was decreased (P < .01) in alpha 1 and increased (P < .01) in alpha 3 subpopulations. A positive correlation between HDL-C and alpha 1 (P < .001) and a negative correlation between HDL-C and alpha 3 were observed. The inverse correlation of apoA-I distribution (relative concentration) between alpha 1 and alpha 3 suggests an interconversion of alpha 1 and alpha 3 subpopulations, possibly by cholesteryl ester transfer protein. Pre-beta subpopulations showed an inverse trend with HDL-C, while the pre-alpha subpopulation behaved similarly to the alpha-migrating subpopulation. Colocalization of apoA-I and apoA-II particles in the different HDL subpopulations demonstrated that alpha 1, pre-beta 1, and pre-beta 2 subpopulations are apoA-I-only particles rather than apoA-I:A-II particles.
A Computational Algorithm for Spacecraft Control and Momentum Management

Recent developments in the area of nonlinear control theory have shown how coordinate changes in the state and input spaces of a dynamical system can be used to transform certain nonlinear differential equations into equivalent linear equations. These techniques are applied here to the control of a spacecraft equipped with momentum exchange devices. An optimal control problem is formulated that incorporates a nonlinear spacecraft model. An algorithm is developed for solving the optimization problem using feedback linearization to transform to an equivalent problem involving a linear dynamical constraint, and a functional approximation technigue to solve for the linear dynamics in terms of the control. The original problem is transformed into an unconstrained nonlinear quadratic program that yields an approximate solution to the original problem. Two examples are presented to illustrate the results.
On the Use of Dent Depth as an Impact Damage Metric for Thin Composite Structures

The damage resistance of thin composite structures was investigated experimentally. Specifically, surface damage in the form of dent-depth measurements are compared with internal damage states obta...
Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis in Children

Investigators from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia analyzed the clinical and radiographic findings in 12 cases of cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) seen between 2000 and 2013, and conducted a literature search and review of the pooled data.
Existence of finite-energy lumps in classical field theories

We show how the existence of nontrivial finite-energy time-dependent classical lumps is restricted by a generalized virial theorem. For simple model Lagrangians, bounds on energies follow.
Electronic Personal Health Records for Childhood Cancer Survivors: An Exploratory Study.

Purpose: Childhood cancer survivors have complex healthcare needs that may be effectively communicated using electronic personal health records. This study explores the knowledge, interest, and attitudes of a sample of survivors and some of their caregivers towards electronic personal health records (ePHRs). Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in a pediatric hematology-oncology clinic and associated survivorship clinic with a convenience sample of caregivers of survivors who were <14 years old and survivors ≥14 years old along with their caregivers when present. A semi-structured interview was conducted with survivors and some caregivers to understand their knowledge, interest, and attitudes towards adoption of ePHRs. Results: Interviews were completed with 11 caregivers of young survivors, four survivors alone, and five survivor–caregiver dyads. Survivors ranged in age at diagnosis from 1 to 17 years old. Among the ethnically diverse sample, approximately half of the nine survivors and 25% of 16 caregivers reported having some knowledge of ePHRs. Eighty-nine percent (8/9) of the survivors and 81% (13/16) of the caregivers reported that they were somewhat or very comfortable using the internet. All nine survivors and 75% of caregivers were interested in the adoption of ePHRs. Data security and privacy were the primary concerns expressed. Conclusions: Interest in adoption of ePHRs to manage cancer survivorship-related health information was high. Most felt that the privacy and security concerns would not prevent adoption. Additional research is needed on larger and more representative samples of survivors to understand what types of support and education are needed to effectively implement ePHRs.
Leber Congenital Amaurosis: Genotypes and Retinal Structure Phenotypes.

Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) patients of 10 known genotypes (n = 24; age range, 3–25 years) were studied clinically and by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Comparisons were made between OCT results across the horizontal meridian (central 60o) of the patients. Three patterns were identified. First, there were LCA genotypes with unusual and readily identifiable patterns, such as near normal outer nuclear layer (ONL) across the central retina or severely dysplastic retina. Second, there were genotypes with well-formed foveal architecture but only residual central islands of normal or reduced ONL thickness. Third, some genotypes showed central ONL losses or dysmorphology suggesting early macular disease or foveal maldevelopment. Objective in vivo morphological features could complement other phenotypic characteristics and help guide genetic testing of LCA patients or at least permit a differential diagnosis of genotypes to be made in the clinic.
Three Neotoma Populations in Georgia and Interpopulation Mating in Captivity

From October, 1951, until April, 1954, several collecting trips were made in Georgia and a few immediate areas for the purpose of live trapping Neotoma to use in breeding experiments. This has also resulted in some clarification of statewide distribution. This particular region well represents the southeastern forms since N. magister Baird, N. floridana floridana (Ord), and N. floridana haematoreia Howell all occur within the state. It is interesting to note that a definite hiatus exists between …
Analysis and test on the automatic voltage regulator of Three Gorges right bank power station

Based on real time digital simulation(RTDS),a laboratory environment similar to the real operation situation in the Three Gorges power plant(TGPP) was established.Then,the causes of the power fluctuation of the second generator by errors of rotor rotating speed calculation were found,and the tuning method of the speed related parameters were given.Damping and anti-tune characteristics of PSSs in the digital automatic voltage regulator(AVR) were compared and investigated in the frequency range of 0.18~1.10 Hz.The efficiency of the proposed tuning method for ensuring power system stability were verified by RTDS.Field tests show the correctness of the laboratory test results.
Colonizing the Caribbean: biogeography and evolution of livebearing fishes of the genus Limia (Poeciliidae)

Aim We investigate the origin and colonization of the West Indian endemic freshwater fish group Limia. We evaluate the leading hypotheses for the origins of West Indian life, including trans-oceanic dispersal, late Cretaceous vicariance, and the GAARlandia land bridge at the Eocene/Oligocene boundary. Location Greater Antilles, with extensive sampling in the Dominican Republic. Methods We obtained DNA from wild sampling and the aquarium trade. We sequenced three mitochondrial (12S, ND2 and Cytb) and two nuclear genes (Rh, MYH6) for a combined molecular phylogenetic analysis to evaluate species relationships and the timing of divergence events between islands and the mainland. We used Bayesian and likelihood approaches to build phylogenies, a BEAST analysis to establish the timing of colonization, and R package BioGeoBEARS to perform a historical biogeographical reconstruction. Results Relaxed molecular clock results show that the ancestor to the West Indian clade, which includes the Limia and Hispaniolan Poecilia, diverged from a South American ancestor at the Eocene/Oligocene boundary. The basal Jamaican species, L. melanogaster, split from the rest of Limia at the Oligocene/Miocene boundary. Cuban and Cayman taxa are sister to a diverse species group from Hispaniola. Historical biogeographical reconstruction supported the GAARlandia DEC+j model as the best fitting model for colonization. Main conclusions Our results support a colonization model for Limia that is concordant with the timing of GAARlandia and climate change during the Eocene/Oligocene boundary. Limia colonization was most likely a result of facilitated dispersal during a period of lower sea levels and shorter passage along the Aves Ridge. These results are also consistent with other recent molecular clock studies of dispersal limited cichlids, toads and frogs, indicating a growing body of support for the significance of Eocene/Oligocene climate change for the historical biogeography of West Indian life.
Race, Politics, and Student Learning

Politics, bureaucracy, and representation greatly affect the life chances of African-American students in our nation's schools. Chapter 5 demonstrates that bureaucratic representation and politics are associated with access to gifted classes, assignments to special education, and the administration of discipline. These policy outputs are considered indicators of equal access to quality education and are likely to affect the educational attainment of individual students and, subsequently, their long-term economic and social status (Gordon, Della Piana, and Keleher 2000; Kozol 1991; Mulkey et al. 2005). Although the policy debate at times focuses on these outputs, more discussion is centered on outcomes, predominately test scores, graduation rates, and preparation for higher education. Any assessment of educational outcomes, however, should recognize, first, that the political process has defined the goals of education and, second, that the existing definition of these goals is highly controversial (Smith 2003). Public education can have numerous goals that are very general and somewhat ambiguous. In the broadest sense, the goal of public education is to produce effective democratic citizens – individuals who can participate in the political, social, and economic life of a polity (Gutmann and Ben-Porath 1987). Trying to measure the attainment of such a goal would require assessments of the relationship between education and political participation, social capital, crime, cultural development, economic growth, and many other facets of contemporary life. The political process in the United States has culled the various indicators of education to generally focus on test scores with some additional concern over graduation rates and movement into postsecondary education. Scholarly and parental resistance to standardized testing indicates that the narrowing of education goals has not gone uncontested (Bushaw and Calderon 2014; Strauss 2013; Valenzuela 2002, 2005; Wiliam 2010). Although this chapter will focus on test scores, graduation rates, and college preparation, we recognize these are only one set of goals in US education policy. The narrowing of the mainstream educational policy debate has taken place in conjunction with the rise of the federal government as a major player in elementary and secondary education. K–12 education is traditionally a state function in which state governments delegate authority to local education agencies, primarily independent school districts.