cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Laboratory experiments on the effects of antecedent moisture content and residue application on structural properties of a fragile soil

Abstract In model experiments, saturated hydraulic conductivity ( K s ) of a fragile Miles fine sandy loam soil dried at 35°C was increased by incorporating sorghum residue, but decreased by increasing antecedent moisture. After 4 drying cycles at 35°C, the K s of soil with no residue ranged from 0.002 cm h −1 when antecedent moisture was high to 1.4 cm h −1 when antecedent moisture was very low. The K s of soil with high residue ranged from 0.4 cm h −1 when antecedent moisture was high to 11.2 cm h −1 when antecedent moisture was low. The K s of slow-dried soil at 25°C, unlike fast dried soil, increased with increasing moisture. Slow-drying at 25°C or under a straw much increased natural compaction and reduced K s of soils. Finally, the K s of soils was a function of drying conditions, straw management, antecedent moisture and their interactions. These results indicate that slow-drying and increased moisture created by conservation or reduced-tillage systems can increase natural compaction and decrease permeability of some soils.
N.m.r. analysis of polypropylene-maleic anhydride copolymer

Abstract Polypropylene-maleic anhydride (PP-MA) copolymer was prepared by the solid phase graft copolymerization process. The grafted polymer was analysed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, wet chemical methods, solid state 13C n.m.r. analysis, and by liquid state 13C n.m.r. spectroscopy. The solid state, 50 MHz, 13C n.m.r. showed a distinct peak at 175 ppm indicating the presence of maleic anhydride functionality in the copolymer. These peaks were not detected in the liquid state 13C n.m.r. spectra due to the presence of dipolar broadening. The structure of the PP-MA copolymer as determined by n.m.r. was in agreement with the proposed structure given by Minoura et al.1 based on FTi.r. analysis. The extracted solution was analysed by g.c.-m.s. and it was found that unreacted maleic anhydride was extracted by the water. The presence of maleic anhydride in the copolymer was also confirmed by FTi.r.
(α, 2nγ) Studies of γ-vibrational and other side-bands in 162, 164, 166Er

Abstract Levels in 162, 164, 166 Er have been studied using the (α, 2nγ) reaction at an energy of 24 MeV. Singles spectra, γ-γ coincidence spectra, and angular distributions were obtained using Ge(Li) detectors. Transitions from levels in the γ-vibrational bands up to the 8 +' in 162, 164 Er and 10 +' in 166 Er were observed and M1/E2 mixtures were determined for many of these transitions. There is a relative shifting upward of the even-spin levels in the γ-band of 166 Er while the analogous levels of 162, 164 Er are shifted downward with the effect being most pronounced for 162 Er. The standard phenomenological band-mixing parameters z 2 and z 02 were obtained from γ-ray branching ratio data and the values are probably correlated with the staggering of levels in the γ-bands. The ratios of the intraband and interband E2 transition strengths which are related to the intrinsic quadrupole moments of the ground-state and γ-bands are discussed. A number of other levels are observed in 162 , 164Er and some of these correspond to negative parity states reported in decay studies.
Michelin Tire Baby Syndrome: A Review of the Literature and a Proposal for Diagnostic Criteria with Adoption of the Name Circumferential Skin Folds Syndrome

The term Michelin tire baby (MTB), named for the cartoon mascot of the Michelin Tire Company, has been used to describe babies with multiple symmetric circumferential rings of folded skin. In those reported with this phenotype who had skin biopsies, pathology has shown nevus lipomatosis, smooth muscle hamartoma, degenerative collagen, and scarring. Others did not undergo biopsy or had normal skin. Many individuals with the MTB phenotype have had a variety of other congenital anomalies. I review the literature on MTB and the history of the designation Michelin tire baby Syndrome (MTBS). Because the term MTBS has been poorly defined or not defined at all, I propose strict criteria for diagnosis. In doing so, it is recommended that the syndrome be renamed to avoid further confusion.
Upstream process optimization of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) by Alcaligenes latus using two-stage batch and fed-batch fermentation strategies

This research focused on optimizing the upstream process time for production of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) from sucrose by two-stage batch and fed-batch fermentation with Alcaligenes latus ATCC 29714. The study included selection of strain, two-stage batch fermentations with different time points for switching to nitrogen limited media (14, 16 or 18 h) and fed-batch fermentations with varied time points (similar to two stage) for introducing nitrogen limited media. The optimal strain to produce PHB using sucrose as carbon source was A. latus ATCC 29714 with maximum-specific growth rate of 0.38 ± 0.01 h−1 and doubling time of 1.80 ± 0.05 h. Inducing nitrogen limitation at 16 h and ending second stage at 26 h gave optimal performance for PHB production, resulting in a PHB content of 46.7 ± 12.2 % (g PHB per g dry cell weight) at the end of fermentation. This was significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) (approximately 7 %) than the corresponding fed batch run in which nitrogen limitation was initiated at 16 h.
Plasma Norepinephrine Level in Affective Disorders: Relationship to Melancholia

• The plasma norepinephrine (NE) level was measured in 45 depressed patients and in 41 normal control subjects. Patients who met DSM-III criteria for a major depressive episode with melancholia (MDE-MEL; N=16), and those with MDE but with melancholia in a previous episode (MDE-PMEL; N =8), had significantly higher levels of plasma NE than normal control subjects while lying and standing and a greater change in the levels; whereas, patients with MDE alone (N =10) and patients with dysthymic disorder (N =11) had levels of NE comparable with control levels. Bipolar patients (N = 7), all with current melancholia or a history of it, had significantly lower levels of NE while lying down or standing than depressed unipolar patients with similar histories of melancholia. Among unipolar patients with melancholia, nonsuppressors on the dexamethasone suppression test had significantly higher lying-down NE values than did suppressors, suggesting that dysregulation of both the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the peripheral sympathetic nervous system occur together in this subgroup of depressed patients.
Age-Associated Increase in Skin Fibroblast-Derived Prostaglandin E2 Contributes to Reduced Collagen Levels in Elderly Human Skin

Production of type I collagen declines during aging, leading to skin thinning and impaired function. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a pleiotropic lipid mediator that is synthesized from arachidonic acid by the sequential actions of cyclooxygenases (COX) and PGE synthases (PTGES). PGE2 inhibits collagen production by fibroblasts in vitro. We report that PTGES1 and COX2 progressively increase with aging in sun-protected human skin. PTGES1 and COX2 mRNA were increased 3.4-fold and 2.7-fold, respectively, in the dermis of elderly (>80 years) versus young (21–30 years) individuals. Fibroblasts were the major cell source of both enzymes. PGE2 levels were increased 70% in elderly skin. Fibroblasts in aged skin display reduced spreading due to collagen fibril fragmentation. To investigate the relationship between spreading and PGE2 synthesis, fibroblasts were cultured on micropost arrays or hydrogels of varying mechanical compliance. Reduced spreading/mechanical force resulted in increased expression of both PTGES1 and COX2 and elevated levels of PGE2. Inhibition of PGE2 synthesis by diclofenac enhanced collagen production in skin organ cultures. These data suggest that reduced spreading/mechanical force of fibroblasts in aged skin elevates PGE2 production, contributing to reduced collagen production. Inhibition of PGE2 production may be therapeutically beneficial for combating age-associated collagen deficit in human skin.
Determining information requirements: A contingency method for selection of a requirements assurance strategy

If the information requirements for an information system application can be established accurately and completely and then documented clearly and unambiguously, there is a high probability that the application can be successfully designed and implemented. Information requirements determination consists of two major processes: 1.(1) eliciting requirements and 2.(2) requirements assurance. Many techniques, procedures, and methodologies have been proposed for these two processes. This paper describes the selection of a strategy for information requirements assurance. Selection of the appropriate strategy depends on environmental and project contingencies. Contingencies determine the level of uncertainty to be resolved in order to ensure an accurate and complete statement of information requirements. Based on the level of uncertainty, the strategy for assurance may be to accept the requirements as stated or to follow either a linear, iterative, or experimental assurance process. The approach to strategy selection is illustrated by a contingency analysis worksheet for evaluating requirements uncertainty and by examples.
Pathology of peripheral vestibular disorders in the elderly.

Abstract A clinical classification of vertigo commonly seen in the elderly and caused by peripheral vestibular disorders is illustrated by case reports and temporal bone histopathology. The classification includes inducible transient vertigo and noninducible protracted vertigo. The peripheral vestibular pathology includes abnormalities of sensory, neural, and mechanical structures and is often asymetric. The pathogenesis of these disorders is often speculative, but includes degenerative, infectious, neoplastic, and vascular insults to the vestibular labyrinth.
Selective predation by bluegill sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus) on three species of Diaptomus (Copepoda) from subtropical Florida

ABSTRACT The electivity of young bluegills (Lepomis macrochirus) feeding on three species of Diaptomus was examined experimentally in aquaria. Young bluegills consumed more adult female D. floridanus than D. mississippiensis, with D. dorsalis being consumed in the smallest numbers. An experiment was conducted with a nonvisual siphon device in an attempt to separate the visibility and escape ability components of the feeding electivity. Although somewhat variable, escape ability was linearly related to body size of the copepods, with D. dorsalis being captured least often by the siphon, D. floridanus being caught an intermediate number of times, and D. mississippiensis being caught most often. Comparisons of the two experiments indicated that a differences in numbers of D. dorsalis and D. floridanus eaten by bluegills were determined primarily by disparities in visibility attributable to pigmentation, whereas differences in numbers of D. dorsalis and D. mississippiensis eaten could be accounted for by thei...
Quantification of the effects of thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor and α2-antiplasmin on fibrinolysis in normal human plasma

Two major proteins that inhibit fibrinolysis include thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI) and alpha2-antiplasmin. Our goal was to quantify the contribution of TAFI and alpha2-antiplasmin to antifibrinolytic defenses with thrombelastography. Plasma activated with tissue factor/kaolin was subjected to fibrinolysis with tissue-type plasminogen activator (100 U/ml). Prior to activation, TAFI activity was inhibited with either potato carboxypeptidase inhibitor (25 microg/ml) or an anti-TAFI antibody, and alpha2-antiplasmin activity was inhibited with an anti-alpha2-antiplasmin antibody. Data were collected for 30 min, with the time of onset and rate of fibrinolysis determined. Compared with uninhibited samples, TAFI inhibition significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the time of onset of fibrinolysis by 70% and increased the rate of lysis by 70%. There was no difference between potato carboxypeptidase inhibitor and anti-TAFI antibody inhibition. Inhibition of alpha2-antiplasmin resulted in a significantly (P < 0.05) decreased time of onset (85%) and increased the rate of lysis (557%) compared with uninhibited samples. Inhibition of alpha2-antiplasmin activity resulted in a significantly (P < 0.05) greater fibrinolytic response than TAFI inhibition. In conclusion, utilization of standard inhibitors and thrombelastography permitted quantification of the effects of TAFI and alpha2-antiplasmin on fibrinolysis in plasma. Future investigation of diseases involving hypofibrinolysis (e.g. left ventricular assist devices) could be conducted using this assay system.
Intracellular ice formation in yeast cells vs. cooling rate: Predictions from modeling vs. experimental observations by differential scanning calorimetry

To survive freezing, cells must not undergo internal ice formation during cooling. One vital factor is the cooling rate. The faster cells are cooled, the more their contents supercool, and at some subzero temperature that supercooled cytoplasm will freeze. The question is at what temperature? The relation between cooling rate and cell supercooling can be computed. Two important parameters are the water permeability (Lp) and its temperature dependence. To avoid intracellular ice formation (IIF), the supercooling must be eliminated by dehydration before the cell cools to its ice nucleation temperature. With an observed nucleation temperature of -25 degrees C, the modeling predicts that IIF should not occur in yeast cooled at or=30 degrees C/min. Experiments with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) confirmed these predictions closely. The premise with the DSC is that if there is no IIF, one should see only a single exotherm representing the freezing of the external water. If IIF occurs, one should see a second, lower temperature exotherm. A further test of whether this second exotherm is IIF is whether it disappears on repeated freezing. IIF disrupts the plasma membrane; consequently, in a subsequent freeze cycle, the cell can no longer supercool and will not exhibit a second exotherm. This proved to be the case at cooling rates >20 degrees C/min.
Wafered and baled alfalfa hay harvested at different stages of maturity for lactating cows.

Abstract Thirty cows and twelve bred heifers were used in lactation and digestion trials, respectively, to compare the feeding value of wafered and baled second cutting alfalfa hay harvested at prebloom, 1/10-bloom, and full-bloom stages of maturity. A double reversal design with five-week periods was employed in the lactation trial where hay was fed free-choice and grain to production. Greater differences in digestibility of dry matter, nitrogen-free extract, and total digestible nutrient (TDN) content were obtained between prebloom and 1/10 -bloom stages of maturity than between 1/10- and full-bloom. Differences in dry matter (DM) intake and digestibility, with the exception of crude fiber, between wafered and baled hays at the same stages of maturity were generally small. In the lactation trial, hay DM intake and body weight gain of cows fed 1/10- and full-bloom bales were lower (P .05) of the six roughage rations on per cent milk protein or solids-not-fat. The milk fat percentage was higher (P
N-BOAT: An Autonomous Robotic Sailboat

This article presents the ongoing development of an autonomous sailboat control architecture and a prototype sailboat constructed for experimental validation of the proposed architecture. The main goal of the project is to allow long endurance autonomous missions for ocean monitoring. In order to accomplish such objective, the system relies on wind forces propulsion instead of motors. We present the mathematical model using PID and Fuzzy controllers to control the sail and the rudder. Furthermore, we also present a study of the hardware architecture that enables better control performance of the system.
Sleep disorders in combat-related PTSD

Purpose We sought to assess the rate of sleep complaints and sleep disorders among active duty soldiers with deployment-related PTSD and to determine whether any clinical features differentiated those with sleep disorders.
Eye structure and optics in the intertidal snail,Littorina irrorata

The gross structure and optical properties of the eye of the marsh periwinkle,Littorina irrorata, are described. Each eye is about 270 × 240 μm in adults and is located on a short protuberance lateral to a cephalic tentacle. Light passes through a transparent cornea, a large fixed pupil, a spherical lens, and a large vitreous body, before striking a non-reflective retina. The lens is at least partially corrected for spherical aberration and has a short focal length (f/r = 2.71 for a 170-μm diameter lens in saline), indicating that its refractive index decreases from core to periphery. Rays parallel to the optic axis converge on the central retina's surface in a 1.1-μm diameter blur circle. The Airy disc on the central retina is less than 0.83 μm in diameter, indicating that image quality is nearly diffraction limited. The average adult retina contains about 7,450 photoreceptors whose average diameter is 3.44 μm, and whose average separation distance is 4.37 μm. On the central retina a single average photoreceptor subtends an angle of 1.3 ° from the posterior nodal point, while the angular separation of neighboring average photoreceptors is 1.7 °. Each eye has a potential field of view of 240 °, and the two eyes could provide 170 ° of forward-directed binocular vision. The depth of focus is estimated to be from 2.3 mm to infinity. The 5-mm long cephalic tentacles permit physical contact with objects too close to be in focus.
Making the transition from print to electronic serial collections: a new model for academic chemistry libraries?

A "new model" academic chemistry library is proposed at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in which primary access to journals is electronic, replacing traditional print access, binding, and shelving. Print journals will continue to be purchased and archived unbound in a remote storage facility following unbound display and access for twelve months. The new model, initially proposed by administrative chemistry faculty, was assessed in a feasibility study which looked at the stability, quantity, and quality of electronic journals; it also included a survey of chemistry faculty, a review of internal management data, and an analysis of use of chemistry journals, both print and electronic. The feasibility study found support for the model in every area, but with a few caution flags and speed bumps predicted along the way.
Electronic structure of the metal center in the Cd(2+), Zn(2+), and Cu(2+) substituted forms of KDO8P synthase: implications for catalysis.

Aquifex aeolicus 3-deoxy-D-manno-octulosonate 8-phosphate synthase (KDO8PS) is active with a variety of different divalent metal ions bound in the active site. The Cd{sup 2+}, Zn{sup 2+}, and Cu{sup 2+} substituted enzymes display similar values of k{sub cat} and similar dependence of K{sub m}{sup PEP} and K{sub m}{sup A5P} on both substrate and product concentrations. However, the flux-control coefficients for some of the catalytically relevant reaction steps are different in the presence of Zn{sup 2+} or Cu{sup 2+}, suggesting that the type of metal bound in the active site affects the behavior of the enzyme in vivo. The type of metal also affects the rate of product release in the crystal environment. For example, the crystal structure of the Cu{sup 2+} enzyme incubated with phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and arabinose 5-phosphate (A5P) shows the formed product, 3-deoxy-D-manno-octulosonate 8-phosphate (KDO8P), still bound in the active site in its linear conformation. This observation completes our structural studies of the condensation reaction, which altogether have provided high-resolution structures for the reactants, the intermediate, and the product bound forms of KDO8PS. The crystal structures of the Cd{sup 2+}, Zn{sup 2+}, and Cu{sup 2+} substituted enzymes show four residues (Cys-11, His-185, Glu-222, and Asp-233) and a water moleculemore » as possible metal ligands. Combined quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) geometry optimizations reveal that the metal centers have a delocalized electronic structure, and that their true geometry is square pyramidal for Cd{sup 2+} and Zn{sup 2+} and distorted octahedral or distorted tetrahedral for Cu{sup 2+}. These geometries are different from those obtained by QM optimization in the gas phase (tetrahedral for Cd{sup 2+} and Zn{sup 2+}, distorted tetrahedral for Cu{sup 2+}) and may represent conformations of the metal center that minimize the reorganization energy between the substrate-bound and product-bound states. The QM/MM calculations also show that when only PEP is bound to the enzyme the electronic structure of the metal center is optimized to prevent a wasteful reaction of PEP with water.« less
An evaporative co-assembly method for highly ordered inverse opal films

Colloidal self-assembly holds promise for photonic applications as a solution-based, low-cost alternative to top-down photolithography, if significant control of uniformity and defects can be achieved. Herein we demonstrate a new evaporative co-assembly method for highly-uniform inverse opal thin films that involves the self-assembly of polymer colloids in a solution containing a silicate precursor. Nanoporous inverse opal films can be made crack-free and with highly uniform orientation at the cm scale. The silicate between the colloids appears to increase the strength against cracking. This control of defects makes this method well-suited for the low cost fabrication of such films as sensors and photonic devices.
Massless states in supermembranes

Abstract We discuss the quantum structure of the supermembrane, focusing in particular on the issues of supersymmetry breaking, the existence of massless states, and the nature of the mass spectrum.
Abstract C150: SOX9 modulates Wnt/beta‐catenin singal in cancer cells by regulating TCF4 and LRP6 expression

Introduction: Cancers frequently exploit developmental genes/pathways to sustain their uncontrolled growth or invasion. SOX9, an important developmental transcription factor is one of the signature genes of the basal‐like breast cancers. SOX9 over‐expression has been demonstrated in various cancers and is associated with a poor prognosis. In prostate cancer, SOX9 supports tumor proliferation, angiogenesis and local invasion in xenografts. The role of SOX9 as a biomarker and molecular mechanisms of its biological functions were further explored in this study. Methods: Immunohistochmical analysis of SOX9 protein expression was performed on a tissue microarray of 129 breast cancer samples. Gene profiles of the breast cancer samples were examined by ANOVA analysis to identify genes that are expressed at significantly higher level among SOX9‐high protein expressing samples. SOX9 regulated genes were validated by their corresponding changes in expression levels to SOX9 silencing in cancer cell lines. The effect of SOX9 silencing on cancer progression was examined in the MCF10A DCIS.com xenografts. Results: SOX9 protein expression was highly represented in the basal‐like breast cancers and was associated with poor tumor grades. Among the genes correlated with higher SOX9 expression were two major components of the canonical Wnt/ ‐catenin signal pathway, ie TCF4 and LRP6. These genes were up‐ or down‐regulated in various cancer cell lines in response to SOX9 overexpression or silencing. More importantly, the Wnt3a induced ‐catenin activity was significantly reduced when SOX9 protein was specifically down‐regulated. SOX9 down‐regulation in MCF10A DCIS xenografts lead to a squamous differentiation and a block in the progression from DCIS to invasive carcinoma. Conclusion: This study identified a novel function of SOX9 in modulating Wnt/β‐catenin signaling by regulating TCF4 and LRP6 expression. SOX9 enhanced Wnt/β‐catenin activity in the absence of APC or β‐catenin mutations may play an important role in determining tumor subtype, maintaining tumor stem cells or supporting tumor growth or progression. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(12 Suppl):C150.
Deactivation of sulfated-zirconia and H-mordenite catalysts during n-butane and isobutane isomerization

Abstract The catalytic properties of sulfated-zirconia and H-mordenite for isomerization of n -butane and isobutane were studied at temperatures near 450 K. Both catalysts showed rapid deactivation (deactivation constant k deact near 0.02 min −1 ) during isomerization of n -butane when olefins were present in the feed stream. Removal of olefins from the feed decreased the rate of catalyst deactivation over sulfated-zirconia ( k deact near 0.007 min −1 ), while removal of feed olefins eliminated the isomerization reaction over H-mordenite. Deactivation of the catalysts during n -butane isomerization appears to be caused by the production of coke on the catalyst from straight-chain olefinic species either present in the feed or produced on the catalyst (for the case of sulfated-zirconia) under reaction conditions. The rates of deactivation are slower during isobutane isomerization than during n -butane isomerization over sulfated-zirconia and H-mordenite catalysts in the presence of feed olefins ( k deact near 0.006 min −1 ). Higher rates of production of C 6 -species are observed during isobutane isomerization than during n -butane isomerization. It appears that more effective hydride transfer during isobutane isomerization than during n -butane isomerization may remove coke precursors. Isobutane isomerization may be an effective probe reaction to study solid acid catalysts at pseudo-steady state reaction conditions.
Tomography of the solar corona. I. A robust, regularized, positive estimation method

A general method for the reconstruction of emissivity structures in the solar corona from projection data is presented. The method creates a robust, regularized, positive estimate (RRPE) of the coronal emissivity distribution. The problem of reconstructing the three-dimensional emissivity from a time series of coronagraph images is considered in detail. The discussion is set in the framework of the robust solution of underdetermined, linear systems of equations. In two-dimensional numerical experiments, the RRPE method is compared to the multiplicative algebraic reconstruction technique (MART), and the superiority of RRPE is demonstrated. The most important and restrictive assumptions upon which the methodology is based are (1) that the structure of the corona does not vary with time and (2) that there are enough coronagraph images to resolve the longitudinal structures of the corona. The consequences of these assumptions are not addressed here but will be studied in future work. The three-dimensional reconstruction of the coronal electron density from a time series of actual coronagraph images is deferred to a subsequent paper in this series.
Point-based trust: define how much privacy is worth

This paper studies the notion of point-based policies for trust management, and gives protocols for realizing them in a disclosure-minimizing fashion. Specifically, Bob values each credential with a certain number of points, and requires a minimum total threshold of points before granting Alice access to a resource. In turn, Alice values each of her credentials with a privacy score that indicates her reluctance to reveal that credential. Bob's valuation of credentials and his threshold are private. Alice's privacy-valuation of her credentials is also private. Alice wants to find a subset of her credentials that achieves Bob's required threshold for access, yet is of as small a value to her as possible. We give protocols for computing such a subset of Alice's credentials without revealing any of the two parties' above-mentioned private information.
Changes in motor cortex activation after recovery from spinal cord inflammation.

Diseases of the spinal cord are associated with reactive changes in cerebral cortex organization. Many studies in this area have examined spinal cord conditions not associated with recovery, making it difficult to consider the value of these cortical events in the restoration of neurological function. We studied patients with myelitis, a syndrome of transient spinal cord inflammation, in order to probe cortical changes that might contribute to recovery after disease of the spinal cord. Seven patients, each of whom showed improvement in hand motor function after a diagnosis of myelitis involving cervical spinal cord, were clinically evaluated then studied with functional MRI. During right and left index finger tapping, activation volumes were assessed in three cortical motor regions within each hemisphere. Results were compared with findings in nine control subjects. Compared to the control group, myelitis patients had larger activation volumes within contralateral sensorimotor as well as contralateral premotor cortex. The degree of daily hand use showed a significant correlation with the volume of activation in contralateral sensorimotor cortex. Recovery from myelitis is associated with an enlarged activation volume in contralateral motor cortices. This change in motor cortex function is related to behavioral experience, and thus may contribute to motor improvement The expanded activation in motor cortex, seen with several forms of spinal cord insult, may have maximal utility when corticospinal tract axons are preserved.
A formal framework for the study of concurrent program testing

The author has developed a formal theory for reasoning about concurrent program testing by representing such programs as sets of simulating sequential programs. He has shown that if such a representation exists for all programs in a concurrent language, then it serves as the basis for a solution to the reproducible testing problem of programs in that language. The author does not know under what circumstances such a representation must necessarily exist; that is an open question. However, he has shown that it exists for a simple concurrent language in the CSP family, denoted language CL, and he believes that the model is applicable to other languages in the family. Because CL is currently unimplemented, no pragmatic studies have been done on the feasibility of applying the model. >
Heat Flow of the Earth

1.1 Background Earth’s evolution reflects the history of heat transfer from the interior [53, 1101 via the fundamental processes of plate tectonics, conduction through continental lithosphere, and hotspot volcanism [103]. As a result, considerable attention has been directed toward understanding Earth’s thermal history, the variation in the temperature field in space and tune. The primary directly observable quantity for heat flow is the temperature gradient near the surface, which is in turn used to estimate the flow of heat from the interior and hence draw inferences about the thermal structure and evolution. The challenge is the classical one of using the measured temperature and temperature gradient at an object’s surface to infer the temperature field within the body, T(x,t), a function of position x and time t. Near the earth’s surface, the temperature gradient is essentially vertical, so the outward heat flow qs is
Elevated Neuroimmune Biomarkers in Sweat Patches and Plasma of Premenopausal Women with Major Depressive Disorder in Remission: The POWER Study

Background Major depressive disorder (MDD) is inconsistently associated with elevations in pro-inflammatory cytokines and neuropeptides. We used a skin sweat patch, recently validated in healthy controls, and recycling immunoaffinity chromatography (RIC), to measure neuroimmune biomarkers in patients with MDD mostly in remission.
Differential contribution of basic residues to HIV-1 nucleocapsid protein’s nucleic acid chaperone function and retroviral replication

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) nucleocapsid (NC) protein contains 15 basic residues located throughout its 55-amino acid sequence, as well as one aromatic residue in each of its two CCHC-type zinc finger motifs. NC facilitates nucleic acid (NA) rearrangements via its chaperone activity, but the structural basis for this activity and its consequences in vivo are not completely understood. Here, we investigate the role played by basic residues in the N-terminal domain, the N-terminal zinc finger and the linker region between the two zinc fingers. We use in vitro ensemble and single-molecule DNA stretching experiments to measure the characteristics of wild-type and mutant HIV-1 NC proteins, and correlate these results with cell-based HIV-1 replication assays. All of the cationic residue mutations lead to NA interaction defects, as well as reduced HIV-1 infectivity, and these effects are most pronounced on neutralizing all five N-terminal cationic residues. HIV-1 infectivity in cells is correlated most strongly with NC’s NA annealing capabilities as well as its ability to intercalate the DNA duplex. Although NC’s aromatic residues participate directly in DNA intercalation, our findings suggest that specific basic residues enhance these interactions, resulting in optimal NA chaperone activity.
Changes in half brightness dose due to preparation pressure for YAG:Ce

Previous research shows that certain properties, such as half brightness dose (N/sub 1/2/) and fluorescence intensity, depend on preparation pressure. Phosphor tablets composed of 50% cellulose and 50% yttrium aluminum garnet doped with cerium (YAG:Ce) powders, were created using a Carver press with an applied force of 78 kN. The average 3-MeV proton N/sub 1/2/ for the tablet samples was 11.6 and 36.6 times smaller than equivalent values for the paint and crystal forms of YAG:Ce, respectively. It is quite apparent that the application of a large preparation force damages some of the YAG:Ce grains which reduces the N/sub 1/2/. The fluorescence efficiency of the tablets was also less than that measured for the other forms of YAG:Ce.
Dating fluvial terraces by 230Th/U on pedogenic carbonate, Wind River Basin, Wyoming

Reliable and precise ages of Quaternary pedogenic carbonate can be obtained with 230Th/U dating by thermal ionization mass spectrometry applied to carefully selected milligram-size samples. Datable carbonate can form within a few thousand years of surface stabilization allowing ages of Quaternary deposits and surfaces to be closely estimated. Pedogenic carbonate clast-rinds from gravels of glacio-fluvial terraces in the Wind River Basin have median concentrations of 14 ppm U and 0.07 ppm 232Th, with median (230Th/232Th) = 270, making them well suited for 230Th/U dating. Horizons as thin as 0.5 mm were sampled from polished slabs to reduce averaging of long (≥105 yr), and sometimes visibly discontinuous, depositional histories. Dense, translucent samples with finite 230Th/U ages preserve within-rind stratigraphic order in all cases. Ages for terraces WR4 (167,000 ± 6,400 yr) and WR2 (55,000 ± 8600 yr) indicate a mean incision rate of 0.26 ± 0.05 m per thousand years for the Wind River over the past glacial cycle, slower than inferred from cosmogenic-nuclide dating. Terrace WR3, which formed penecontemporaneously with the final maximum glacial advance of the penultimate Rocky Mountain (Bull Lake) glaciation, has an age of 150,000 ± 8300 yr indicating that it is broadly synchronous with the penultimate global ice volume maximum.
Estimating and testing variance components in a multi-level GLM.

Most analysis of multi-subject fMRI data is concerned with determining whether there exists a significant population-wide ‘activation’ in a comparison between two or more conditions. This is typically assessed by testing the average value of a contrast of parameter estimates (COPE) against zero in a general linear model (GLM) analysis. However, important information can also be obtained by testing whether there exist significant individual differences in effect magnitude between subjects, i.e. whether the variance of a COPE is significantly different from zero. Intuitively, such a test amounts to testing whether inter-individual differences are larger than would be expected given the within-subject error variance. We compare several methods for estimating variance components, including a) a naive estimate using ordinary least squares (OLS); b) linear mixed effects in R (LMER); c) a novel Matlab implementation of iterative generalized least squares (IGLS) and its restricted maximum likelihood variant (RIGLS). All methods produced reasonable estimates of within- and between-subject variance components, with IGLS providing an attractive balance between sensitivity and appropriate control of false positives. Finally, we use the IGLS method to estimate inter-subject variance in a perfusion fMRI study (N = 18) of social evaluative threat, and show evidence for significant inter-individual differences in ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFC), amygdala, hippocampus and medial temporal lobes, insula, and brainstem, with predicted inverse coupling between VMPFC and the midbrain periaqueductal gray only when high inter-individual variance was used to define the seed for functional connectivity analyses. In sum, tests of variance provides a way of selecting regions that show significant inter-individual variability for subsequent analyses that attempt to explain those individual differences.
Mirizzi syndrome associated with gallbladder cancer and biliary-enteric fistulas

M irizzi syndrome is a very uncommon condition in which a calculus impacted in the cystic duct or gallbladder neck causes extrinsic compression and partial obstruction of the common hepatic duct. The preoperative diagnosis is important because of the potential risk of bile duct injury at surgery. In addition, undetected biliary-enteric fistulas from stone penetration may lead to significant postoperative complications. The associated finding of carcinoma is rare but important to diagnose preoperatively. We present a patient with Mirizzi syndrome complicated by a biliary-enteric fistula and gallbladder cancer, which CT examination and ERCP helped identify.
Features of Grade 3 Giant Cell Tumors of the Distal Radius Associated With Successful Intralesional Treatment

Purpose The goal of this study was to identify radiographic and anatomic features of Campanacci grade 3 distal radius giant cell tumors that are associated with an acceptable rate of local recurrence after intralesional treatment. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 15 grade 3 distal radius giant cell tumors treated with intralesional curettage, cryosurgery, and cementation (CCC) (n = 9) or with wide en bloc excision and reconstruction (WEE) (n = 6). Success was defined as local control after CCC without conversion to wide excision, and as a recurrence rate comparable with rates in the scientific literature. Preoperative radiographic evaluation and intraoperative determination of tumor extension guided the choice of treatment. Tumor width on x-rays and tumor volume on magnetic resonance imaging were measured. Outcome was assessed with postoperative motion and grip strength, and the Disabilities of the Shoulder, Arm and Hand, the visual analog pain score, and a satisfaction questionnaire. Results Local recurrence occurred in 2 of 9 patients after primary CCC, in none with repeat CCC, and in none of the 6 with WEE. No patient treated with secondary CCC had unresectable recurrence requiring conversion to WEE. Patients with a single site of cortical perforation who received CCC treatment achieved local control with intralesional treatment alone. Average tumor volume was 12 cm 3 (range, 9–17 cm 3 ) with CCC and 43 cm 3 (range, 29–57 cm 3 ) with WEE. Postoperative motion and strength, Disabilities of the Shoulder, Arm and Hand score, and visual analog pain scale score were acceptable in all and superior with CCC. All patients were highly satisfied. Conclusions Tumor volume measured with magnetic resonance imaging and anatomically defined limits of soft tissue extension may help identify grade 3 lesions that can be treated with with CCC with an acceptable rate of local recurrence. We propose subclassification of Campanacci grade 3 lesions. Under this classification, tumors with extension assessed by preoperative imaging and confirmed by intraoperatively to be limited to a single site of palmar cortical perforation are classified as grade 3(p), where (p) denotes a single site bound by the pronator quadratus. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
The planning process in occupational therapy: perceptions of adult rehabilitation patients.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to learn about (a) adult physical rehabilitation patients' perceptions of their involvement in the treatment planning process (goal setting, treatment planning, outcome evaluation), (b) their valuation of occupational therapy, and (c) how they would describe their interpersonal relationships with their occupational therapists. Method Fifteen subjects who had received occupational therapy were interviewed. The transcripts were independently and jointly reviewed by the authors to answer five research questions. Results Most of the subjects indicated that they had been involved in occupational therapy goal setting; treatment planning; and outcome evaluation, albeit this indication was weak. They also valued the occupational therapy services they received. Eight described positive interpersonal interactions with their therapists, and seven provided no information. Conclusion Patients receiving occupational therapy services are involved in goal setting, treatment planning, and outcome evaluations; however, their involvement varies and can be difficult for them to identify and describe. Because of increasing societal emphasis on patient rights and participation (e.g., consumerism, health professions standards, health care accreditation criteria, health care legislation) and the likelihood that health care funding will be used for services linked to patient goals, occupational therapy practitioners could become more overt and systematic in involving patients in the planning process. Increasing patient involvement in planning may result in more individualized treatment and more effective use of health care dollars.
Isolation by distance and post‐glacial range expansion in the rough‐skinned newt, Taricha granulosa

Allozymes and mitochondrial DNA sequences were used to examine the phylogeographical history of the rough-skinned newt, Taricha granulosa, in western North America. Nineteen populations were analysed for allozyme variation at 45 loci, and 23 populations were analysed for cytochrome b sequence variation. Both data sets agree that populations in the southern part of the range are characterized by isolation by distance, whereas northern populations fit the expectations of a recent range expansion. However, the northern limit of isolation by distance (and the southern limit of range expansion) is located in Oregon State by the mtDNA data, and in Washington State by the allozyme data. Nevertheless, both data sets are consistent with the known Pleistocene history of western North America, with phylogenetically basal populations in central and northern California, and a recent range expansion in the north following the retreat of the Cordilleran ice sheet 10 000 years ago. Additionally, a population in Idaho, previously considered introduced from central California based on morphometric analyses, possesses a distinct mtDNA haplotype, suggesting it could be native. The relevance of these results for Pacific Northwest biogeography is discussed.
Efficacy of the ketogenic diet as a treatment option for epilepsy: meta-analysis.

The evidence base for the efficacy of the ketogenic diet was assessed among pediatric epileptic patients by application of a rigorous statistical meta-analysis. Nineteen studies from 392 abstracts met the inclusion criteria. The sample size was 1084 patients (mean age at initiation 5.78 +/- 3.43 years). The pooled odds ratio, using a random effects model, of treatment success (> 50% seizure reduction) among patients staying on the diet relative to those discontinuing the diet was 2.25 (95% confidence interval = 1.69-2.98). The reasons for diet discontinuation included 50% seizure reduction within 3 months tend to remain on the diet longer. Although no class I or II studies have been published regarding the efficacy of the ketogenic diet, this meta-analysis shows that current observational studies reporting on the therapeutic effect of the ketogenic diet contain valuable statistical data. Future observational studies should aim for long-term follow-up, patient dropout analysis, and improved seizure type characterization.
Three-dimensional simulation of helix travelling wave tubes

Summary form only given. We present a three-dimensional nonlinear formulation and simulation of a helix travelling wave tube (TWT) using a sheath helix model. The simulation is capable of treating both DC and pulsed electron beams as well as single-frequency or multi-tone operation. The model relies upon a spectral decomposition of the electromagnetic fields in terms of the vacuum sheath helix polarizations. A Poynting-like equation describes the energy balance. The electron orbits are treated using the complete Lorentz force equations. The field equations are integrated on a grid and advanced in time using a MacCormack predictor-corrector scheme, and the electron orbit equations are integrated using a fourth order Runge-Kutta algorithm. Charge is accumulated on the grid and the field is interpolated to the particle location by a linear map. Several numerical cases are considered. Simulation of the injection, of a DC beam and a signal at a single frequency is compared with a linear field theory of the helix TWT interaction, and good agreement is found. Simulation of a prebunched beam is also discussed.
The Idea of Mozambique and Its Enemies, c.1890-1930

’The idea of Mozambique and its Enemies’ deals with the conflicting viewpoints which sought to dominate Mozambique in the early twentieth century. It argues that there was a group of colonial administrators who shared a broad vision of what Mozambique could become and how this could be achieved. However, they were opposed at virtually every juncture by special interests which were more concerned with with immediate exploitation rather than long‐term solutions. Since these conflicts produced only chaos and served to discredit all of the concerned parties, a power vacuum was created that enabled Antonio Salazar to establish a type of colonial regime which bore little resemblance to what the early administrators had envisaged.
Fixed grid techniques for phase change problems: A review

SUMMARY The aim of this paper is to categorize the major fixed grid formulations and solution methods for conduction controlled phase change problems. Using a two phase model of. a solid/liquid phase change, the basic enthalpy equation is derived. Starting from this equation, a number of alternative formulations are obtained. All the formulations are reduced to a standard form. From this standard form, finite element and finite volume discretizations are developed. These discretizations are used as the basis for a number of fixed grid numerical solution techniques for solidification phase change systems. In particular, various apparent capacity and source based enthalpy methods are explored.
The Black Church: Its Development and Present Impact

The Black church, historically, is the most significant institution in the Black community.I. History and Development of the Black ChurchA. There were differences of opinion with respect to whether slaves should be Christianized.B. The Christian religion was accepted by the slaves because it offered hope and salvation.C. Although at first religious instruction was given the slaves, this was later discontinued, then renewed after the Revolutionary War.D. Three major denominations split over the question of slavery.E. Independent churches were established by free Negroes in the North.