cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neurobiology of treatment-resistant schizophrenia: new insights and new models

Abstract In an attempt to understand schizophrenia, four important fields have been implicated in the disease process and are reviewed here. Early findings that antipsychotic drugs were dopamine antagonists led to a dopaminergic theory of schizophrenia. However, it now appears that a primary dopaminergic abnormality is an unlikely explanation. The cortex has always been thought to be involved in the development of schizophrenia and recent data from neuropsychological, postmortem and imaging studies have indicated that connections between the prefrontal and temporolimbic areas within the brain may be abnormal. Traditionally, schizophrenia has been considered to be a disease with an adult onsel pathology. This theory has now been challenged by data suggesting that in schizophrenia, anatomical changes in the adult brain are non-progressive and occurred prior to the onset of illness. Finally, studies on neuronal gene expression have indicated that all antipsychotic drugs modulate DNA transcription in the shell of the nucleus accumbens and that newer antipsychotics produce a quite different pattern of expression from conventional neuroleptics. These recent approaches provide new opportunities in the understanding of schizophrenia, its treatment and prevention.
Beliefs About Resistance Self-Efficacy and Drug Prevalence: Do They Really Affect Drug Use?

Testing the same structural equation model for eighth-grade users and nonusers, this study examines social influence and cognitive precursors of adolescent drug use among 1138 West Coast students. For the eighth-grade nonusers of alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana (n = 518), low resistance self-efficacy and prodrug social influences directly predicted generic expectations of using drugs and actual use nine months later. For the users (n = 620), both variables directly affected expectations and indirectly affected actual use. While the latent variable measure of drug use prevalence did not predict either outcome, specific estimates of peer alcohol use directly affected later drinking. Estimates of several other drug-specific relations were required to fit the model, indicating that both general and drug-specific effects are needed to explain adolescent drug use. [Translations are provided in the International Abstracts section of this issue.]
Factors affecting decisional conflict for parents with children enrolled in a paediatric palliative care programme.

Palliative care programmes have the potential to affect several health outcomes for children and families, including reducing decisional conflict. Method: A telephone survey was conducted with 140 parents of children with life-limiting illnesses enrolled in Florida’s publicly funded paediatric palliative care programme (Partners in Care: Together for Kids). Results: Multivariate results suggest that parents with less than a high school education had decisional conflict scores (DCS) that were 13 points higher (p<0.05) than parents with some college education. In addition, parents who indicated that they had recently made a decision for their children had DCS scores that were 7 points higher (p<0.05) than parents who indicated they had not. Discussion: Our findings suggest that paediatric palliative care programmes should treat parents with lower educational levels as being particularly vulnerable and should consider allocating additional resources to them when a decision for their children is imminent.
Global series solutions of nonlinear differential equations with shocks using Walsh functions

An orthonormal basis set composed of Walsh functions is used for deriving global solutions (valid over the entire domain) to nonlinear differential equations that include discontinuities. Function g n ( x ) of the set, a scaled Walsh function in sequency order, is comprised of n piecewise constant values (square waves) across the domain x a ≤ x ≤ x b . Only two square wave lengths are allowed in any function and a new derivation of the basis functions applies a fractal-like algorithm (infinitely self-similar) focused on the distribution of wave lengths. This distribution is determined by a recursive folding algorithm that propagates fundamental symmetries to successive values of n. Functions, including those with discontinuities, may be represented on the domain as a series in g n ( x ) with no occurrence of a Gibbs phenomenon (ringing) across the discontinuity. A much more powerful, self-mapping characteristic of the series is closure under multiplication - the product of any two Walsh functions is also a Walsh function. This self-mapping characteristic transforms the solution of nonlinear differential equations to the solution of systems of polynomial equations if the original nonlinearities can be represented as products of the dependent variables and the convergence of the series for n ? ∞ can be demonstrated. Fundamental operations (reciprocal, integral, derivative) on Walsh function series representations of functions with discontinuities are defined. Examples are presented for solution of the time dependent Burger?s equation and for quasi-one-dimensional nozzle flow including a shock.
Role of Antioxidant Enzymes in the Induction of Increased Experimental Metastasis by Hydroxyurea

BACKGROUND Treatment of tumor cells with hydroxyurea and other DNA-damaging agents has been shown to increase the experimental metastatic potential of these cells. PURPOSE We sought to elucidate some of the biochemical and genetic changes that promote tumor cell metastasis in hydroxyurea-treated cells. We hypothesized that drug treatment induces resistance to oxidative damage and that elimination of this resistance reverses the drug-induced experimental metastatic capabilities of tumor cells. METHODS We examined the effect of hydroxyurea treatment on B16 melanoma cells with respect to experimental metastatic potential, resistance to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), glutathione peroxidase activity and messenger RNA (mRNA) level, glutathione reductase activity, glutathione levels, glutathione-S-transferase activity, and catalase activity and mRNA level. RESULTS Hydroxyurea-treated cells were transiently more metastatic following intravenous injection in syngeneic mice and transiently more resistant than untreated cells to exogenous H2O2. Hydroxyurea-induced experimental metastases and H2O2 resistance were eliminated by depletion of intracellular glutathione with buthionine sulfoximine. Glutathione peroxidase activity and mRNA level, glutathione reductase activity, and reduced glutathione levels were all transiently increased in hydroxyurea-treated cells, whereas the increase in glutathione-S-transferase activity was sustained. Catalase activity was modestly increased with no increase in its mRNA levels. CONCLUSIONS In B16 melanoma cells, experimental metastasis induced by hydroxyurea appears to depend on a process that requires glutathione. Hydroxyurea treatment also induces resistance to exogenous H2O2, which may be due to induction of glutathione and antioxidant enzyme activity. IMPLICATIONS The role of antioxidants in B16 melanoma cells offers new insights into the metastatic process and the cellular response to chemotherapy.
Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) alias error from ocean tides

[1] Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) is able to observe interannual and longer-period mass redistribution driven by climate changes. However, alias errors due to inaccurate ocean tide models may contaminate these signals. To quantify this problem, we estimate alias contamination due to expected errors in eight tidal constituents (Q1, O1, P1, K1, N2, M2, S2, and K2) for the period August 2002 to February 2006. Differences between GOT00.2 and TPXO6.2 tide models are used as estimates of tide model errors. The alias estimate is based on an approximate method employing least squares fits of spherical harmonics to potential differences between the two GRACE satellites. Results from this method are similar to previous estimates, confirming this is a useful and efficient way to study the alias problem. New findings are (1) the period of the M2 tide alias is about 140 d, much longer than the predicted period (13.5 d) because of monthly sampling of the 13.5-d period; (2) there are two alias periods for K1 (one about 90 d and one longer than 7 years); and (3) the slow decay in the GRACE orbit causes tide component aliases to differ from pure frequencies as the orbit evolves. We also find that aliases can contaminate in both space and time and thus may affect estimates of mass changes over land. Finally, we compare the simulated S2 alias with the estimated S2 alias in GRACE data. They are similar, but our approximate method appears to overestimate alias error over high-latitude oceans and along certain coastlines while underestimating error over low-latitude oceans.
Uterine fibronectin mRNA content and localization are modulated during implantation.

Fibronectin mRNA and protein content were examined during embryonic implantation in the rat uterus. Content of total fibronectin mRNA at day 6 of pregnancy increased relative to the non-pregnant uterus. In contrast, fibronectin protein content of the subepithelial stroma was relatively decreased except in the region directly surrounding the lumen, and this fibronectin immunoreactivity was sensitive to hyaluronidase treatment. These changes are likely to reflect the degradation and subsequent remodeling of the previously stable uterine extracellular matrix in preparation for embryonic implantation. A+,B-,V+ fibronectin mRNAs were present in both the non-pregnant and day 6 pregnant uterus with increased content of A+ and V+ fibronectin mRNAs in the latter. A+ fibronectin mRNA was distributed throughout the endometrial stroma of the non-pregnant uterus and content of the subepithelial stroma increased by day 4 of pregnancy, coincident with progesterone action on the endometrium. On day 6 of pregnancy, fibronectin mRNAs encoding the V95 and A regions were preferentially localized to the mesometrial zone of the subepithelial stroma. Accumulation of these mRNA splicing variants at the mesometrial zone was dependent upon decidualization, but the embryo was not required. Thus, there are two major changes in uterine fibronectin gene expression as a result of pregnancy: increased fibronectin mRNA content and mesometrial localization. These changes suggest a key function for fibronectin in implantation and imply the operation of a regulatory program of fibronectin gene expression which depends on hormonal sensitization and a nidatory stimulus. © 1992 Wiley-liss, Inc.
A REVIEW OF ADRENAL CORTICAL HYPERTROPHY1

HYPERTROPHY of the adrenal glands has been described in a bewildering variety of circumstances, but few attempts have been made to determine the nature of the humoral or neural stimuli that may initiate the process. It is true that many workers in this field have used such phrases as ‘reaction to stress,’ ‘reaction to unfavorable environment,’ ‘alarm reaction,’ or ‘protective power of the adrenals’ but these concepts can be regarded as no more than vaguely descriptive, and therefore legitimate targets for more precise methods of analysis. The phrase ‘reaction to stress,’ in a general way, describes many of the conditions we propose to discuss, but it gives us no understanding of the possible mechanisms that may stimulate the adrenals to hypertrophy. Much of the work to be reviewed is difficult to evaluate for many reasons, some of which illustrate the inherent complexity of the problem.
Predictions of Solar Cycle 24

A summary and analysis of more than 50 predictions of the amplitude of the upcoming Solar Cycle 24 is presented. All of the predictions were published before solar minimum and represent our efforts to anticipate solar maximum at ever-earlier epochs. The consistency of the predictions within their assigned categories is discussed. Estimates of the significance of the predictions, compared to the climatological average, are presented.
Evaluation of a Meter for Testing Potassium Concentration in Low-salinity Aquaculture Ponds

A HANNA Model HI 93750 Ion Specific Meter, Potassium provided results similar to those obtained by flame emission spectrophotometry for potassium concentrations in the range of 8–92 mg/L in low-salinity water (2–10 ppt). Regression analyses of potassium concentrations performed using the two methods had correlation coefficients (r) of 0.999 for samples from ponds and 0.997 for a series of standards. In comparison with the flame emission method, the potassium meter achieved greater recovery of potassium spikes in one trial and equal recovery in a second trial. The relatively inexpensive meter is sufficiently precise and accurate for monitoring potassium concentration in low-salinity water for pond aquaculture.
Gaia, God, and the Internet: The History of Evolution and the Utopia of Community in Media Society

The question of religious content in the media has occupied many scholars studying the relationship between media and religion. However, the study of recent religious thought offers a promising perspective for the analysis of the cultural perceptions of various media technologies. After the Internet first appeared in American households in the middle of the 1990s, a variety of religious or spiritual interpretations of the new medium emerged. The far-reaching ideas see the Internet as the first step of the realisation of a divine entity consisting of the collective human mind. In this vision, the emergence of the Internet is considered to be part of a teleological evolutionary model. Essential for the religious and evolutionary construction of the Internet is an incorporation of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin's model of evolution — especially the idea of the noosphere, and its adoption in media theory by Marshall McLuhan. The connections of these ideas to James Lovelock's Gaia theory illustrate the notion of the Internet as an organic entity. The article outlines the processes of the reception of religious and evolutionary ideas which led to the recent interpretations of the Internet as a divine sphere.
Vapor pressure estimates of individual polychlorinated biphenyls and commercial fluids using gas chromatographic retention data

The liquid phase vapor pressures at 25°C of 27 polychlorinated biphenyls were plotted versus published retention indices on two gas chromatographic stationary phases. Good fits were obtained (r2  0.996-0.999) for data on an intermediate polarity (Dexsil-410) capillary and a non-polar (OV-101) packed column. Estimates of vapor pressures for 134 polychlorinated biphenyls found in five commercial Aroclor fluids were made using these two plots and published retention indices. Vapor pressure estimates of the five fluids were calculated using individual polychlorinated biphenyl vapor pressures and Aroclor compositional information, assuming Raoult's law. The resulting vapor pressures at 25°C for Aroclors 1248, 1254 and 1260 were ca. 2.3-3.3 times lower than values previously reported, whereas the vapor pressure of Aroclor 1242 was 1.4 times higher.
Genetic Diversity and Genetic Vulnerability-An 'Appraisal

1. Plant germplasm is among the most essential of the world’s natural resources. Its conservation merits far greater attention than it is now receiving. 2. Total genetic diversity does not provide insurance against genetic vulnerability. To be of use to the breeder, sources of genetic diversity must include useful alleles not present in elite populations that carry resistance to pests and other stresses that adversely affect productivity and quality. 3. Breeding programs of the most important crops include only a small percentage of the total germplasm available within each crop. The major reason for this limited use of the stores of germplasm found in gene banks is the lack of evaluation data on such material. Until a gene bank’s accessions are evaluated and documented they will continue to be of limited value to the breeder. 4. The results of a recent survey indicate that the genetic base of several important crops has increased during the past decade. 5. Several criticisms of the Green Revolution (used in the broadest sense) are considered. Introductions of new, improved cultivars do tend to replace indigenous varieties containing potentially useful germplasm. Expanded efforts are needed to rescue such varieties before extinction. Research does not support the contention that modern, genetically-uniform cultivars are necessarily less stable and less dependable than genetically-variable cultivars. 6. With respect to the impacts of a changing seed industry on genetic diversity, it is suggested that these changes will not result in a concentration of fewer varieties used worldwide. The movement of pharmaceutical and chemical companies into the seed industry has occurred too recently to permit an evaluation of the effects of such moves. It will likely result in greater competition which, in turn, will stimulate more breeding and the introduction of a greater number of varieties than have been available in the past. Plant variety protection legislation in the United States has also served to stimulate additional breeding in self-fertilized species and has resulted in an increase in the amount of genetic diversity available to the farmer.
X-ray tube focal spot size, digital detectors, imaging system aperture and spatial resolution

Most modern radiology facilities are all digital, and film is not available for physics QC testing. An important test is the measurement of the effective focal spot sizes of the x-ray tube which has an impact on overall image system spatial resolution. Focal spot size measurements typically utilize a star pattern which is magnified and recorded on plain film. Plain film is ideal because it has a spatial resolution of 50-75 LP/mm. Utilizing digital image receptors to record the star pattern images does degrade the measurement because of the size of the individual detector elements (DEL). This article presents a method for the determination of focal spot size using the digital image receptor (DIR) to record the image of the star pattern. An equation which corrects for the image blur introduced by the finite size of the digital detector is given. Measurements of effective focal spot sizes are still important to the assessment of radiographic spatial resolution.
Lattice with a twist: Helical waveguides for ultracold matter

We investigate the waveguiding properties of the optical interference pattern of two counter-propagating Laguerre–Gaussian beams. The number, helicity, radius, pitch, depth and frequencies of transverse confinement of the waveguides are simply related to the beam parameters. Quantitative connections to the familiar Gaussian optical lattice are made and an application to quantum transport is suggested.
Trabecular and integral bone density in adults with sickle cell disease.

Abstract Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary disorder of hemoglobin synthesis that can affect the skeletal system owing to accelerated hematopoiesis and/or bone infarction. Additionally, several studies have suggested that a low bone mass is associated with SCD, partly because of adverse effects on growth and development. The few previous studies of bone mineral density (BMD) in these patients have utilized dual-photon or dual-energy x-ray absorptiometric (DXA) techniques, which may have limited value in this population because it cannot correct for differences in bone size. We undertook a study of BMD in the forearm of patients with sickle cell disease using peripheral quantitative computed tomography (QCT), which provides a measure of volumetric bone density for the trabecular bone component as well as cortical and trabecular bone together. We studied 32 African-American SCD patients with no known history of bone infarction in the wrist, and compared them with data from healthy African-American volunteers. We found a 13% lower integral (cortical and trabecular) BMD in the SCD patients ( p = 0.001), but no difference in trabecular BMD ( p = 0.40 for males, 0.32 for females). We hypothesize that the maintenance of trabecular BMD in the wrist may be related to the persistence of metabolically active red marrow in this region in adults with SCD.
Real congruence of complex matrix pencils and complex projections of real Veronese varieties

Quadratically parametrized maps from a real projective space to a complex projective space are constructed as projections of the Veronese embedding. A classification theorem relates equivalence classes of projections to real congruence classes of complex symmetric matrix pencils. The images of some low-dimensional cases include certain quartic curves in the Riemann sphere, models of the real projective plane in complex projective 4-space, and some normal form varieties for real submanifolds of complex space with CR singularities.
Neutrophil stimulation with Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) results in the release of functional soluble TRAIL/Apo-2L

Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) has been used to treat bladder cancer for almost 30 years; however, the effector mechanism of the BCG-induced antitumor response remains enigmatic. Most BCG research has focused on the mononuclear-cell infiltrate, but growing evidence supports a role for neutrophils in the antitumor response. Previously, we demonstrated increased urinary tumor necrosis factor (TNF)–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL/Apo-2L) levels from BCG-responsive patients compared to nonresponders. Interestingly, neutrophils isolated from the urine expressed TRAIL/Apo-2L, leading us to investigate the neutrophil response to BCG. BCG-stimulated neutrophils expressed surface-bound and released functional soluble TRAIL/Apo-2L. Whereas neither interferon α (IFN-α) nor IFN-γ directly induced TRAIL/Apo2L expression by neutrophils, IFN-α did stimulate TRAIL gene transcription, and IFN-primed neutrophils contained and released more TRAIL/Apo-2L after BCG stimulation than did unprimed neutrophils. In unstimulated neutrophils TRAIL/Apo-2L was present predominantly in the azurophilic granules and plasma-membrane–enriched/secretory-granule fraction. Finally, we observed that killed BCG, Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR4 agonists, and an M tuberculosis cell-wall fraction were each capable of inducing the release of soluble TRAIL/Apo-2L from neutrophils. These results further characterize the potential role neutrophils may play in initiating the antitumor response described with BCG treatment for superficial bladder cancer.
A genetically engineered vaccine against the alpha-toxin of Clostridium perfringens protects mice against experimental gas gangrene

Fragments of the alpha-toxin of Clostridium perfringens have been produced using genetic manipulation techniques. Antibody which cross-reacted with the alpha-toxin was induced after immunization with fragments representing the N- (Cpa1–249) and C-terminal (Cpa247–370) domains of the toxin. Smaller fragments of the alpha-toxin did not induce cross-reacting antibody. Anti-Cpa1–249 serum neutralized phospholipase C activity but not haemolytic activity of the toxin. Anti-Cpa247–370 serum neutralized both the phospholipase C and haemolytic activities. Only immunization with Cpa247–370 induced protection against the lethal effects of the toxin. Immunization with Cpa247–370 also provided protection in a mouse model against at least 10 LD100 doses of C. perfringens type A. This result confirms the essential role of this toxin in the pathogenesis of gas gangrene.
Uncertainty, Model Error, and Order Selection for Series-Expanded, Residual-Stress Inverse Solutions

Measuring the spatial variation of residual stresses often requires the solution of an elastic inverse problem such as a Volterra equation. Using a maximum likelihood estimate (least squares fit), a series expansion for the spatial distribution of stress or underlying eigenstrain can be an effective solution. Measurement techniques that use a series expansion inverse include incremental slitting (crack compliance), incremental hole drilling, a modified Sach's method, and others. This paper presents a comprehensive uncertainty analysis and order selection methodology, with detailed development for the slitting method. For the uncertainties in the calculated stresses caused by errors in the measured data, an analytical formulation is presented which includes the usually ignored but important contribution of covariances between the fit parameters. Using Monte Carlo numerical simulations, it is additionally demonstrated that accurate uncertainty estimates require the estimation of model error, the ability of the chosen series expansion to fit the actual stress variation. An original method for estimating model error for a series expansion inverse solution is presented. Finally, it is demonstrated that an optimal order for the series expansion can usually be chosen by minimizing the estimated uncertainty in the calculated stresses.
A threading algorithm suitable for computer numerically controlled turning centers

Abstract An algebraic closed form algorithm for computing the depths of multiple threading passes used to produce threads on a lathe is derived. It is suggested that this algorithm should be incorporated into the resident software or monitor program of computer numerically controlled turning centers. This would reduce the number of blocks of information necessary in a part program. A complete threading cycle of a number of passes could be specified in a single block.
Temperature dependent raman study of KDP in the paraelectric phase

Abstract Raman scattering spectra of an oriented KDP single crystal are measured in several scattering configurations at various temperatures in the paraelectric phase. Anomalous intensity and polarization behavior of several modes has been oberved. The polarization anomalies are explained to be due to the protonic motion present in the hydrogen bond.
DESIGN OF CHOLIC ACID MACROCYCLES AS HOSTS FOR MOLECULAR RECOGNITION OF MONOSACCHARIDES

Abstract Evaluation of cholic acid structures as molecular receptors for monosaccharides had previously shown that cholic acid hosts (CAHs, 1–4 ) display individual preferences for guests, based not only upon their cavity size and hydrogen-bonding potential, but also upon their predominant shapes: “C”, “cup” or “disk”, “L”, “S”, and “V” (J. Mol. Struct. (Theochem.), 308 (1994) 159). The computational strategy used for CAH evaluation had been verified by designing different “locked-in” macrocyclic host structures for two “C” shapes of m -xylylenediamine host with “chopped” side chain CAH (3). In this report, cholic acid hosts p -xylylenediamine CAH ( 2 ) and m -xylylenediamine CAH ( 1 ) are evaluated for host: guest recognition potential by designing novel conformationally constrained macrocycles of selected “disk” and “L”-shaped conformations, as well as “C” or clam shapes with approximately 8–12 A binding cavities. Using inositol as a model for a monosaccharide guest, the resulting host: guest complexes demonstrate unique overall three-dimensional shapes and hydrogen-bonding patterns, yet each macrocycle shows high steric and hydrogen-bonding complementarity with its guest. These results indicate that the choice for a synthetic CAH target as a molecular receptor may be determined from a conceptual framework.
Ototoxicity after combined platinum and fractionated radiation in a novel guinea pig model

Abstract Purpose Cis-platinum and radiation in combination are current organ preservation treatment strategies for head and neck cancer. Their individual ototoxicity has been investigated, with recent demonstration of ototoxicity in clinical studies. Currently, no ototoxicity studies have been performed in animals receiving similar schedules of radiation or cis-platinum to those patients with head and neck cancer. Materials and Methods In the present study, an animal model was developed to investigate the effects of combined modality therapy on hearing. Albino guinea pigs were given equivalent protocol dosages of cis-platinum (3 parenteral courses), fractionated radiation (25 fractions over 5 weeks), or both. Click and tone burst auditory brainstem response (ABR) measurements were performed before and 6 weeks after the completion of treatment. Results Animals receiving radiation or cis-platinum and radiation experienced permanent significant ABR shifts at all frequencies, with 33% of the animals experiencing complete unilateral sensorineural hearing loss at 2 or more frequencies in the ear receiving the full radiation dose (7075 cGy over 25 fractions) (P Conclusions We conclude that the current animal results parallel those seen clinically and serve as a model for ototoxicity from combined modality therapies in future protocols.
Multiple model adaptive control for the NASA F-8 DFBW aircraft

The purpose of the presentation is to discuss the results obtained in the design of a command augmentation system (CAS) for the NASA F-8C Digital-Fly-By-Wire Aircraft using the Multiple Model Adaptive Control (MMAC) method. The design of the adaptive stochastic regulator was discussed previously in references [1] and [2]; in the stochastic regulator design it is assumed that the purpose of the control system is to return the aircraft to equilibrium flight following any initial disturbance. However, the regulator design is not suitable for incorporating pilot command inputs for longitudinal and lateral maneuvers. Thus it has to be modified. Two diffierent approches were used to design the longitudinal and lateral command augmentation systems (CAS).
Goebbels's Perspective: A New Biography of the Nazi Propaganda Minister

Joseph Goebbels: Life and Death. By Toby Thacker (Basingstoke, UK: Palgrave Macmillan, 2009), xiii + 407 pp. £19.99 cloth. Why Goebbels? And why now?—Toby Thacker, a lecturer in modern history at C...
Sea snake skin: Permeable to water but not to sodium

Fasting yellow-bellied sea snakes (Pelamis) have a very low rate of exchange of Na with sea water. Influx and efflux are balanced at a value near 8 μmoles/100 g h. This is only a fraction of the rate of exchange found in marine fish. Na influx is due to uptake in the head region; dermal and cloacal influx are minimal. The impermeability of the skin to Na has been confirmed in isolated preparations. The outer keratin layer seems to be the primary barrier, since the shed skin alone is also impermeable. Na efflux can be increased to 140 μm/100 g h by salt injections, and secretion by the sublingual salt gland can account for all of this loss. Fasting snakes are not in water balance in sea water. There is a net loss of water amounting to about 0.4% body wt/day that probably occurs mainly through the skin. The major osmotic problem ofPelamis in sea water seems to be water balance, not salt balance. Differences in salt gland size among sea snakes might be related to differences in skin permeability to water associated with dermal respiration. The importance of the skin as a permeability barrier suggests that the frequent skin shedding of sea snakes may be related to maintenance of low water permeability as well as to prevention of growth by marine fouling organisms.
Air-borne Radar for Navigation and Obstacle Detection

The grim uses of radar in war are giving way now to a peacetime role in navigation and obstacle detection. This article discusses the results obtained with military airborne radar as a basis for understanding both the possibilities and the limitations in the application of radar to reduce aviation hazards.
Evergreenness and wood density predict height–diameter scaling in trees of the northeastern United States

Abstract Several tree height–diameter scaling rules have been proposed based on mechanical considerations or metabolic scaling. I used data on 202,950 trees of 86 species from the northeastern United States to examine height–diameter scaling patterns, and to determine whether they were sensitive to phylogeny (angiosperm vs. gymnosperm), shade-, drought-, and waterlogging tolerance, evergreenness, and wood density. Mixed effects models were used to estimate average scaling relationships and to quantify variability due to species and site attributes. Results did not support the invariant 2/3 scaling exponent assumed by the Metabolic Ecology Model. Evergreenness and wood density emerged as the primary predictor of height–diameter scaling in this assemblage, with considerable variation remaining at the species and location level. The results suggest that greater ecological and ontogenetic variability must be incorporated into scaling theories if height–diameter scaling is to be predicted successfully.
Radar signal design for target resolution

Target resolution involves the recognition of a particular target in an arbitrary target environment. While pulse compression methods have solved the problem of separating two closely spaced targets of about the same cross section, this separation is usually accomplished at the expense of introducing "sidelobes" in the matched filter response, which may mask weak targets and prevent their detection altogether. The paper investigates the nature of the constraints on combined range and range rate resolution in a matched filter radar and establishes a clear tie between the uncertainty relation and the practical limitations on the resolution performance of radar. It is found that, in general, an optimum radar waveform for target resolution cannot exist. Radar signal design for target resolution consists of matching the waveform to the characteristics of the target environment, and a signal can be optimum only in that it achieves the best match. These findings are illustrated by examples of matching the radar waveform to a given target environment.
Cocaine analgesia: an in vivo structure-activity study.

Hot plate testing of rats was performed to determine the optimal analgesic doses of intracerebroventricularly (ICV) administered cocaine, significant cocaine metabolites, and selected structurally similar molecules. Optimal, (subseizure) analgesic doses for cocaine and selected cocaine analogues were (in microM): cocaine, 0.37; cocaethylene, 0.09; benzoylecgonine, 0.35; norcocaine, 0.43; and ecgonine, 2.1. Ecgonine methyl ester was not analgesic at < or = 3.7 microM. These results, in conjunction with findings on other structurally similar molecules suggest that, of the molecules tested, (a) a hydrophobic group at the C-3 attached carbon is critical for analgesia; (b) a hydrophobic C-2 ester group can enhance analgesic activity (e.g., cocaethylene); (c) the N-methyl position is minimally important for analgesia; and (d) isomeric configurational changes can influence analgesia.
Multimodal annotation tool for challenging behaviors in people with Autism spectrum disorders

Individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) often have challenging behaviors (CB's), such as self-injury or emotional outbursts, which can negatively impact the quality of life of themselves and those around them. Recent advances in mobile and ubiquitous technologies provide an opportunity to efficiently and accurately capture important information preceding and associated with these CB's. The ability to obtain this type of data will help with both intervention and behavioral phenotyping efforts. Through collaboration with behavioral scientists and therapists, we identified relevant design requirements and created an easy-to-use mobile application for collecting, labeling, and sharing in-situ behavior data in individuals diagnosed with ASD. Furthermore, we have released the application to the community as an open-source project so it can be validated and extended by other researchers.
Silent infection of murine embryonal carcinoma cells by moloney murine leukemia virus

Abstract Undifferentiated and differentiated cells from a teratocarcinoma of 129 mice do not exhibit spontaneous or bromodeoxyuridine-inducible virus or viral protein production. The differentiated cells can easily be productively infected while the undifferentiated embryonal carcinoma cells appear to be refractory. When the virus-exposed embryonal carcinoma cells are induced to differentiate and then treated with bromodeoxyuridine, infectious virus is readily recovered even after several months. Fifty percent of the single cell subclones are positive for inducible virus suggesting that infection is a common occurrence and that lack of virus expression is due to repression of the viral information.
ORBiT - The Oak Ridge Biosurveillance Toolkit

We describe ORBiT, the Oak Ridge Biosurveillance Toolkit, the objective of which is to provide 1) forecasting and early warning, and 2) an extensible data analytics platform for biosurveillance by enabling the use of traditional and non-traditional datasets, consisting of heterogeneous data types and modalities. ORBiT includes a data collection interface, analytic components, higher-order statistical tools, and a visual front-end with visual analytics. ORBiT is implemented as a distributed analytic platform consisting of a software stack atop of Hadoop and uses Titan, a distributed graph database as a backend for data storage.
Critical role of bicarbonate and bicarbonate transporters in cardiac function

Bicarbonate is one of the major anions in mammalian tissues and extracellular fluids. Along with accompanying H(+), HCO3 (-) is generated from CO2 and H2O, either spontaneously or via the catalytic activity of carbonic anhydrase. It serves as a component of the major buffer system, thereby playing a critical role in pH homeostasis. Bicarbonate can also be utilized by a variety of ion transporters, often working in coupled systems, to transport other ions and organic substrates across cell membranes. The functions of HCO3 (-) and HCO3 (-)-transporters in epithelial tissues have been studied extensively, but their functions in heart are less well understood. Here we review studies of the identities and physiological functions of Cl(-)/HCO3 (-) exchangers and Na(+)/HCO3 (-) cotransporters of the SLC4A and SLC26A families in heart. We also present RNA Seq analysis of their cardiac mRNA expression levels. These studies indicate that slc4a3 (AE3) is the major Cl(-)/HCO3 (-) exchanger and plays a protective role in heart failure, and that Slc4a4 (NBCe1) is the major Na(+)/HCO3 (-) cotransporter and affects action potential duration. In addition, previous studies show that HCO3 (-) has a positive inotropic effect in the perfused heart that is largely independent of effects on intracellular Ca(2+). The importance of HCO3 (-) in the regulation of contractility is supported by experiments showing that isolated cardiomyocytes exhibit sharply enhanced contractility, with no change in Ca(2+) transients, when switched from Hepes-buffered to HCO3 (-)- buffered solutions. These studies demonstrate that HCO3 (-) and HCO3 (-)-handling proteins play important roles in the regulation of cardiac function.
Multiparameter Radar Measurements in Colorado Convective Storms. Part II: Hail Detection Studies

Abstract In this part II paper we focus on hail detection using the NCAR CP-2 radar measurements from which ZH, ZDR, LDR, and dual-frequency ratio can be derived. A major feature of this paper relates to rigorous computations of multiparameter observables, including circular polarization observables, from model hail distributions, and to consideration of propagation effects in moderate-to-intense rainfall. Multiparameter radar measurements of hail are presented using data gathered during the MAYPOLE'83 and '84 field programs. These hail measurements are found to be consistent with model computations. Hail signature locations using ZDR, dual-frequency ratio, and LDR are shown to be in excellent agreement. The vertical structure of ZDR, (below the melting level), LDR (above the melting level), and dual-frequency ratio yield new and interesting information on hail shaft structure and vertical extent. Examples of radar data from MAYPOLE '84 are used to illustrate these inferences.
Analysis of Global Cloud Imagery from Multiple Satellites

Abstract Synoptic images of the global cloud field have been created from infrared measurements taken aboard tour geostationary and two polar-orbiting platforms simultaneously observing the earth. A series of spatial and temporal interpolations together with data reliability criteria are used to composite data from the individual satellites into synoptic images of the global cloud pattern. The composite Global Cloud Imagery (GCI) have a horizontal resolution of about half a degree and a temporal resolution of 3 h, providing an unprecedented view of the earth's cloud field. Each composite image represents a nearly instantaneous snapshot of the global cloud pattern. Collectively, the composite imagery resolve, on a global basis, most of the variability associated with organized convection, including several harmonies of the diurnal cycle. The dense and 3-dimensional nature of the GCI make them a formidable volume of information to treat in a practical and efficient manner. To facilitate analysis of global c...
Titration of replication activity by increasing ARS dosage in yeast plasmids.

The rep1 region of the yeast mitochondrial genome, a putative replication origin, contains a weak autonomously replicating sequence (ARS). Nucleotidesequence and deletion analyses have identified two 11-base pair ARS consensus sequences, numerous near matches to the ARS core, and a region of curvature that may contribute to ARS function. Based on the amplified nature of petite-derivative mitochondrial DNA encompassing this locus, we have constructed plasmids containing an increasing dosage of ARS elements. The rep1 ARS element can have an additive effect on plasmid stability when present either as a tandem dimer or as an unlinked pair. However, the presence of a third ARS copy does not further enhance plasmid stability. These results indicate that measurable dosage effects can be defined only in circumstances where weak ARS elements are employed, and that plasmid maintenance within yeast cells is saturable and varies among the different sequences promoting replication.
Metabolites of Aromatic Hydrocarbons in the Bile of Brown Bullheads (Ictalurus nebulosus)

In vivo metabolism and biliary excretion of PAH by brown bullheads was determined using an HPLC/fluorescence method. In laboratory studies, 24 hours after feeding of PAH, bullheads had evidence for polar metabolites of the PAH in their bile as detected by HPLC’/fluorescence. These materials were detectable only at wavelengths specific for the compound that was fed. Analysis of bile from wild bullheads collected from areas with varying degrees of pollution demonstrated that bullheads from the Buffalo River had benzo[a]pyrene equivalents that were 7–148 times greater than those found in fish from less polluted areas. Similarly, levels of phenanthrene equivalents were 7–297 times greater in Buffalo River fish when compared to the other sites. These studies indicate that bullheads can rapidly metabolize dietary PAH, and wild bullheads from industrially impacted waterways such as the Buffalo River are receiving significant PAH exposure. This PAH exposure may account, in part, for the increased incidence of neoplasia observed in the bullheads.
Lose the silver bullets

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to reveal and dissuade the facilitation, fostering and support of silver bullet employee situations in libraries. Design/methodology/approach – The concept of a “silver bullet” employee is first explained, and then brought into the context of library management in a variety of settings. Steps are given to counteract this phenomenon through strategic cross-training and knowledge management initiatives. Findings – Silver bullet employees can be common, but they are not unavoidable aspects of institutional development. Realizing when and how a staff member is becoming too specialized can serve to save time and money down the road when this type of employee moves on. Originality/value – Silver bullet employees are not discussed enough in library literature or at professional conferences. Not planning for employee departure, especially for the departure of highly skilled, talented and specialized employees incurs unnecessary stress and cost to an organization’s leadersh...
Real-space imaging of molecular structure and chemical bonding by single-molecule inelastic tunneling probe.

The arrangement of atoms and bonds in a molecule influences its physical and chemical properties. The scanning tunneling microscope can provide electronic and vibrational signatures of single molecules. However, these signatures do not relate simply to the molecular structure and bonding. We constructed an inelastic tunneling probe based on the scanning tunneling microscope to sense the local potential energy landscape of an adsorbed molecule with a carbon monoxide (CO)–terminated tip. The skeletal structure and bonding of the molecule are revealed from imaging the spatial variations of a CO vibration as the CO-terminated tip probes the core of the interactions between adjacent atoms. An application of the inelastic tunneling probe reveals the sharing of hydrogen atoms among multiple centers in intramolecular and extramolecular bonding.
An investigation of the time between mortgage default and foreclosure

This paper evaluates the speed at which lender's enter the mortgage foreclosure process, interpreting slower rates as evidence of forbearance. A telephone survey was conducted to evaluate the presence of lender discrimination in defaults that lead to foreclosure in New Orleans, Louisiana between 1985 and 1990. These data are used to estimate the independent effects of race and neighbourhood characteristics on the extent of lender assistance during the foreclosure process. The analysis does not reveal discrimination based on race of borrower or racial composition of the neighbourhood. Instead, greater time in default is granted loans with lower interest rates and loans with outstanding balances below the mean value of housing in the surrounding neighbourhood.
Repeated aerosol desensitization and spontaneous resensitization of newborn guinea pigs, passively sensitized in utero

Abstract Newborn guinea pigs, sensitized in utero, were highly sensitive to aerosols of specific antigens. They were desensitized by aerosols of the antigen. This required an average of 48 exposures to increasing concentrations of the antigen aerosols for a total of 34 + hours in 14 days. They became sensitive again spontaneously, but less intensely within 18 days. This sequence of aerosol desensitization and spontaneous resensitization was repeated 3 times in 128 days. Desensitization was obtained much more easily the second and third times. The pigs were no longer sensitive when challenged with the specific aerosol at the age of 209 days. The significance of these observations is discussed.
Woman's Best Friend Pet Abuse and the Role of Companion Animals in the Lives of Battered Women

Battered women seeking shelter were surveyed at intake about their experiences with pet abuse and the roles of pets in their abusive relationships. Of the women with pets, 46.5% reported that their batterers had threatened to harm or actually harmed their pets. Pets often served as important sources of emotional support during the relationship, particularly for women reporting pet abuse. Women continued to worry about the safety of their pets, especially given that many pets remained with the abusive partner. Implications of the findings are discussed and recommendations are presented for domestic violence and other professionals.
Macro‐Micro Linkages in Northwest Portuguese Agriculture: An Application of the Policy Analysis Matrix (PAM)

Presentation d'une methode d'analyse des liens entre micro-economie et macro-economie en milieu rural : le cas des exploitations agricoles du nord-ouest du Portugal