cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Predicting Useful Materials

Researchers have synthesized a compound, [beta]-C[sub 3]N[sub 4], whose properties correspond to those predicted from theory. The synthesis of this compound, which is carbon nitride in the [beta]-Si[sub 3]N[sub 4] structure, shows that theory can point the way toward the creation of materials with hardness comparable with or larger than that of diamond and that such a material has been correctly predicted. The theoretical approach is based upon the modern standard model of solids. One of the cornerstones of this approach is the ability to predict hardness from microscopic information. A semiempirical approach uses the formula B = N[sub c]/4 [times] (1972 - 220I)/d[sup 3.5], where B = bulk modulus, N[sub c] = coordination number, I = empirical ionicity parameter, and d = bond length in angstroms. This equation yields values of B that are in good agreement with experiment and rival costly first-principles calculations for accuracy. In synthesizing [beta]-C[sub 3]N[sub 4], the researchers examined the binding energy for C and N and determined that the C-N covalent bond is strong and similar to the C-C bond in diamond. These studies demonstrate that it is possible to use theory to design materials with predictable properties.
On the solution of two-point linear differential eigenvalue problems

A numerical technique is presented for locating the eigenvalues of two point linear differential eigenvalue problems. The technique is designed to search for complex eigenvalues belonging to complex operators. With this method, any domain of the complex eigenvalue plane could be scanned and the eigenvalues within it, if any, located. For an application of the method, the eigenvalues of the Orr-Sommerfeld equation of the plane Poiseuille flow are determined within a specified portion of the c-plane. The eigenvalues for alpha = 1 and R = 10,000 are tabulated and compared for accuracy with existing solutions.
Role of bone marrow-derived cells in presenting MHC class I-restricted tumor antigens

Many tumors express tumor-specific antigens capable of being presented to CD8+ T cells by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. Antigen presentation models predict that the tumor cell itself should present these antigens to T cells. However, when conditions for the priming of tumor-specific responses were examined in mice, no detectable presentation of MHC class I-restricted tumor antigens by the tumor itself was found. Rather, tumor antigens were exclusively presented by host bone marrow-derived cells. Thus, MHC class I-restricted antigens are efficiently transferred in vivo to bone marrow-derived antigen-presenting cells, which suggests that human leukocyte antigen matching may be less critical in the application of tumor vaccines than previously thought.
Chromenes from Ageratina arsenii and revised structures of two epimeric chromene dimers

Abstract Agrostophyllin, the first naturally occurring phenanthropyran derivative, was isolated from the orchid Agrostophyllum khasiyanum . It was shown to b
Can patient satisfaction with decisions predict compliance with surgery

Background: Patient satisfaction with treatment decisions is a discrete and measurable component of the satisfaction paradigm, distinct from satisfaction with health care services. Objective: The study goal was to determine if the Satisfaction With Decision (SWD) scale, a valid and reliable 6-item survey, can predict patient compliance with surgery proposed by their otolaryngologist. Design: Prospective study using the SWD scale plus measures of office visit satisfaction, provider satisfaction, and disease-specific quality of life. Setting: Metropolitan, private nonprofit hospital. Patients: The study population consisted of 151 patients scheduled for surgery, with a median age of 5.8 years and an age range of 0.6 to 65.3 years. Interventions: At the time surgery was scheduled, the decision-maker completed a 12-item questionnaire about satisfaction and quality of life that included the SWD scale. Noncompliant patients were contacted, and the specific reason for cancellation was ascertained. Results: The strongest predictor of surgical cancellation was the SWD survey score, with a median value of 4.8 for patients completing surgery compared with 3.8 for those who cancelled (P < 0.001). Patients with scores <4.0 had a 57% cancellation rate, whereas those with scores ≥4.0 had a 98% completion rate. Patients were also more likely to cancel if it was their first visit with the surgeon (P = 0.004) or if they were responsible for their own decisions (P = 0.007). Cancellations were not associated with office visit satisfaction, patient quality of life, or demographic characteristics of the decision-maker. Conclusions: Patients who are satisfied with their initial decision to undergo surgery are most likely to comply with planned therapy. Conversely, patients who score <4.0 on the SWD scale may benefit from additional preoperative counseling to increase the likelihood of compliance. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2002;126:365-70.)
Issues in fuzzy production systems

The purpose of this study is to examine some critical issues in the development of practical knowledge-based systems using fuzzy logic and related techniques. Eight current and proposed implementations of such systems have been selected for study in order to provide a context for examining the following three general topic areas: the overall structure and application of the system; the nature and locus of uncertainty; and the representation of the logical implication (If-Then) operator. Our goal is not to determine which treatment of these issues is best overall, but rather to draw from such practical experience as currently exists to begin mapping out the advantages and disadvantages of each option relative to the specific structure of the application being addressed. The eight fuzzy knowledge-based systems selected are not intended as a complete survey of a rapidly-growing field, but only to provide a sampling from the wide variety of ways in which fuzzy logic can be used to represent and process various sorts of inexact knowledge.
Immunogenität und Verträglichkeit einer azellulären, monovalenten 4-Komponenten-Pertussisvakzine als Boosterimpfung im Vorschul- und frühen Schulalter

Ziel der Untersuchung: Bestimmung von Vertraglichkeit und Immunogenitat einer Boosterimpfung (4. Dosis) gegen Pertussis mit einer monovalenten, azellularen 4-Komponenten-Vakzine (Pertussistoxin = PT, Filamentoses Hamagglutinin = FHA, Pertaktin, Fimbrientyp 2). Vorausgegangen war eine Grundimmunisierung mit der gleichen Vakzine. Methode: 165 Kinder, die im Alter von 15 Monaten bis 6 Jahren 3 mal im Abstand von mindestens 6 Wochen die Impfung gegen Pertussis erhalten hatten, erhielten im Mittel 15 Monate spater eine Auffrischungsimpfung. Die Vertraglichkeit der Immunisierung wurde in einem standardisierten Tagebuch erfast. In pravakzinalen und 4 Wochen nach der Impfung entnommenen Blutproben wurden die spezifischen Antikorper gegen die in der Vakzine enthaltenen Antigene von Bordetella pertussis bestimmt. Ergebnisse: Die Antikorpertiter vor der 4. Dosis waren im Vergleich zu den Werten nach der 3. Impfung erwartungsgemas deutlich abgefallen, lagen aber 4- bis 40 fach uber dem Ausgangsniveau. Die Auffrischungsimpfung resultierte in einer ausgepragten Boosterung mit 9 fachen (Fimbrien-Typ 2) bis 24 fachen (Pertaktin) Titeranstiegen. Gegenuber den Antigenen PT, FHA und Fim-2 korrelierten die Antikorperhohen positiv mit dem Alter der Impflinge. Die Vakzine wurde, wie schon im Verlauf der Grundimmunisierung beobachtet, sehr gut vertragen. Die lokalen Nebenwirkungen an der Impfstelle lagen zwischen 2,6 (Schwellung) und 35,8 % (Rotung) und wurden in der Regel von den Impflingen als geringfugig bewertet. Die systemischen Nebenwirkungen betrugen maximal 15,1 % (Temperatur ≥ 38 °C). Weder lokale noch systemische Nebenwirkungen zeigten eine Altersabhangigkeit. Schlusfolgerungen: Die von uns untersuchte monovalente, azellulare 4-Komponenten-Vakzine ist seit Januar 1994 fur Erst- und Folgeimpfungen gegen Pertussis ab dem 15. Lebensmonat zugelassen. Sie zeigt fur ein breites Altersspektrum (bei Gabe der 4. Dosis bis ins 8. Lebensjahr) eine sehr gute Vertraglichkeit und Immunogenitat. Da pravakzinal vorhandene Antikorper gegen Pertussisantigene keine Beeintrachtigung von Immunogenitat oder Vertraglichkeit der Impfungen zeigten, kann mit diesem Impfstoff bei Kindern ohne vorherige Antikorperbestimmung jederzeit eine Immunisierung gegen Pertussis durchgefuhrt oder eine bereits mit Ganzkeimvakzine begonnene Impfung fortgesetzt werden.
Cardiac angiogenesis and gene therapy: a strategy for myocardial revascularization.

Therapeutic angiogenesis is a strategy whereby delivery of a growth factor or other mediator that induces angiogenesis (the formation of a new vasculature) is used to augment the native angiogenic process and enhance reperfusion of ischemic tissues (1, 4). Gene transfer is a means of achieving therapeutic angiogenesis, whereby the cDNA coding for specific angiogens, rather than the protein itself, is administered to tissues in which angiogenesis is desired (5, 7). This review will focus on therapeutic angiogenesis based on gene transfer strategies for provision of myocardial revascularization.
Toward a practical instrument system for the automatic measurement of "up-time" in chronic pain patients.

A portable, low-cost instrument system for reliable and automatic measurement of “up-time” in chronic pain patients was described. The system used a miniature electronic stopwatch/calculator to accumulate up-time. A mercury tilt switch mounted on the outer thigh was used to control time accumulation. Performance assessment showed excellent reliability, as well as high concurrent validity (r = 0.999) for the system. Initial field testing with normal subjects and chronic pain patients indicated reliable and easy operation.
Discrimination and participation in traditional healing for American Indians and Alaska Natives

Contemporary American Indians and Alaska Natives (AIs/ANs) who live in urban areas today face the daunting task of navigating an urban landscape while maintaining the facets of their respective Native cultures. While AIs/ANs continue to grapple with the intergenerational trauma associated with forced assimilation, relocation movements, and boarding schools, these traumas have manifested themselves in elevated rates of psychopathology. AIs/ANs have elevated rates of domestic abuse, poverty, suicide, and substance misuse. Furthermore, AIs/ANs, like many other minority cultures often face discrimination in their everyday lives. In light of the aversive experiences they face, AI/AN people have followed the tenets of ritual and traditional healing to address imbalances in the body, mind, and spirit. For providers working with AI/AN clients, it is important to understand who is using traditional healing and why they are using alternative services. Secondary data analyses of survey data from 389 urban AIs/ANs were utilized in order to determine the relationship between experiences of discrimination and traditional healing use. Analyses indicated that experiences of discrimination in healthcare settings were significantly associated with participation in traditional healing. Analyses also indicated that nearly a quarter of the sample reported discrimination in a healthcare setting, roughly half of the sample had used traditional healing, and that the majority of those who had used traditional healing were women, and ages 35-44 (27%). This study calls attention to the socio-demographic factors implicated in traditional healing use by urban AI/AN people, in addition to the clinical and demographic characteristics of this sample.
Job Satisfaction in the United States: Are Blacks Still More Satisfied?

Despite the substantial literature on the paradox of the happy female worker, research has been sparse in investigating race differences in job satisfaction. The last national level study on racial differences in job satisfaction was done in 1981 when, using national level U.S. data from the National Longitudinal Surveys of Mature Men for 1966, 1969 and 1971, Bartel showed that blacks had significantly more job satisfaction and further, that this racial gap had widened during this time. Though the reasons for this gap and its widening were not investigated, it was suggested, in a close parallel to the reason for the contented female worker, that lower expectations, in this case due to discrimination in the labor market, could be a reasonable explanation. Surprisingly, since then, there have been only a handful of studies focused on smaller, specific groups. This paper exploits two U.S. national level data sets, the GSS and the NLSY 1997, to examine the racial gap in job satisfaction. Simple means show that blacks are much less satisfied than whites and moreover, this difference has persisted not only across genders but also across almost four decades. To isolate the pure race effect, a sequential process is adopted by first examining the simple difference in the means of job satisfaction, then, through probit estimation, seeing the impact of individual attributes, finally progressing to incorporation of job attributes. Probit estimates give robust results. Blacks are significantly less satisfied than whites even when income, benefits and occupations are controlled. However, this racial gap is greater in the case of women and younger black men. An exploratory analysis shows that when discrimination is accounted for, the satisfaction gap is further reduced and the race coefficients are rendered insignificant. Estimates with comparison income show that the satisfaction gap is driven by perceived discrimination and not necessarily discrimination as captured by comparison income. This highlights the importance of policy measures to reduce perceptual discrimination.
Preparation of Hydrotalcite Thin Films Using an Electrophoretic Technique

Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) was utilized as a new method for the preparation of hydrotalcite (HT) thin films. The films were deposited on macroporous alumina substrates and on alumina substrates that had been previously coated by conventional dip-coating techniques using slurries of HT colloidal particles. Their permeation properties were investigated by single- and mixed-gas permeation tests, and the films were shown to be permselective toward CO2, which is consistent with prior studies of these materials, which show them to be effective CO2 adsorbents.
An evaluation of the perceived effectiveness of international instruments for sea turtle conservation

Abstract The migratory nature of sea turtles makes international cooperation critical for their survival. However, the degree to which international instruments have promoted conservation of sea turtles remains unclear. This paper aims to be a starting point for the evaluation of existing instruments. The objective of this study was to assess if existing instruments had contributed significantly and beneficially to sea turtle conservation and management. For this purpose, the awareness and perceptions of effectiveness of international instruments among sea turtle biologists and conservationists were evaluated. International instruments were defined as “effective” if sea turtle researchers believed that instruments that applied to their population(s) had successfully promoted conservation based on the design and goals of the agreement. A questionnaire comprising nine questions was distributed to people working on various aspects of sea turtle biology and conservation. Thirty‐five responses were compiled, o...
Looking to the future: Change leaders for tomorrow's community colleges

Creating a culture of change is a challenge to any leader. Change leadership in tomorrow's successful colleges will foster leaders who can anticipate change, analyze the environment, act decisively and collaboratively, and affirm the value of positive change.
Efficiency of human and model observers for signal-detection tasks in non-Gaussian distributed lumpy backgrounds

Efficiencies of the human observer and channelized-Hotelling observers (CHOs) relative to the ideal observer for signal-detection tasks are discussed. A CHO using Laguerre-Gauss channels, which we call an efficient CHO (eCHO), and a CHO adding a scanning scheme to the eCHO to include signal-location uncertainty, which we call a scanning eCHO (seCHO), are considered. Both signal-known-exactly (SKE) tasks and signal-known-statistically (SKS) tasks are considered. Signal location is uncertain for the SKS tasks, and lumpy backgrounds are used for background uncertainty in both the tasks. Markov-chain Monte Carlo methods are employed to determine ideal-observer performance on the detection tasks. Psychophysical studies are conducted to compute human-observer performance on the same tasks. A maximum-likelihood estimation method is employed to fit smooth psychometric curves with observer performance measurements. Efficiency is computed as the squared ratio of the detectabilities of the observer of interest to a standard observer. Depending on image statistics, the ideal observer or the Hotelling observer is used as the standard observer. The results show that the eCHO performs poorly in detecting signals with location uncertainty and the seCHO performs only slightly better while the ideal observer outperforms the human observer and CHOs for both the tasks. Human efficiencies are approximately less than 2.5% and 41%, respectively, for the SKE and SKS tasks, where the gray levels of the lumpy background are non-Gaussian distributed. These results also imply that human observers are not affected by signal-location uncertainty as much as the ideal observer. However, for the SKE tasks using Gaussian-distributed lumpy backgrounds, the human efficiency ranges between 28% and 42%. Three different simplified pinhole imaging systems are simulated and the humans and the model observers rank the systems in the same order for both the tasks.
Effect of phase-transforming medium on coherent electron dynamics in gold nanoantennas

We probed the coherent plasmon dephasing time (T 2 ) in gold nanostructures while thermally modulating the surrounding VO 2 . Our findings indicate three distinct lifetimes corresponding to the insulating, metallic and one at the phase-transformation onset.
Thyroid System Immaturities in Very Low Birth Weight Premature Infants

Continuing advances in the care of premature infants has contributed to the increased survival of very low birth weight premature infants. These infants are characterized by a variety of organ and physiological systems immaturities predisposing to deficiencies of postnatal adaptation and a high prevalence of neonatal morbidities. These morbidities have a major impact on postnatal mental and neurological outcomes. Thyroid hormones play a critical role in central nervous system development and function, and thyroid system immaturities as well as morbidity-related thyroid dysfunction (the nonthyroidal illness syndrome) contribute to the transient hypothyroxinemia of premature infants (THOP). Several studies have demonstrated a correlation of THOP with subsequent low IQ and neurologic sequelae in very low birth weight premature infants, and there is suggestive evidence that thyroid hormone supplementation in very low birth weight infants can improve mental outcome. Here, we review normal fetal thyroid system development and the system immaturities contributing to THOP and predisposing to nonthyroidal illness in very low birth weight infants.
The Effect of Low Level Pesticide Feeding on the Fertility and Hatchability of Chicken Eggs

Abstract Ninety-six White Leghorn pullets housed in individual laying cages were used to study effects of low level pesticide in feed on fertility and hatchability of eggs in a 10 week experiment. Pullets housed under similar conditions in a separate building served as controls. Hens were fed a commercial breeder ration. Feed samples were negative when analyzed for pesticides. DDT, Diazinon, lindane or malathion were added to the feed at rates of 0.1, 1.0 or 10.0 p.p.m. Commercially produced wettable powders were used to incorporate the insecticides in the feed. Hens were artificially inseminated twice each week using pooled semen from 10 males. Two test hatches at an interval of four weeks were incubated to determine levels of fertility and hatchability prior to pesticide feeding. Eggs produced were incubated beginning on the third day of pesticide feeding. Settings were made at weekly intervals with fertility determined on the seventh day of incubation. Pre-test fertility averaged 95% and hatchability 92% of fertile eggs. Fertility during the experimental period ranged from 96.1 to 99.0%. Hatchability of the control group during the experiment was 94.1%. All pesticides used except 0.1 p.p.m malathion significantly (P
PCDM: a decision support modeling methodology for supply chain, product and process design decisions

Abstract While there is considerable pressure to improve the operation of supply chains, their inherent complexity can make modeling a supply chain a difficult task. This difficulty is compounded when the need to model the effects of product and process design changes are also considered. Yet there could be considerable benefits in designing supply chains taking into account the operation of the supply chain as well as the design of the product and the design of the manufacturing processes used in the supply chain. This paper aims to address the central research issue of developing a methodology that can assist a manager in making decisions by modeling both the operation of a supply chain design and the effects of product and process design decisions. The proposed methodology, called Product Chain Decision Model (PCDM), is presented in this paper. This uses an abstracted network to model supply chain systems. Finally, an industry example of joint supply chain and product design is described to illustrate the application of PCDM.
On Ramp to Research: Creation of a Multimedia Library Instruction Presentation for Off-Campus Students

Abstract This paper discusses the planning and development process of a project to create a Web-based multimedia instruction tool for off-campus graduate students in Education. The project involves Macromedia Flash for animation, MP3 sound files for voice narration, text, still images, and Web screen shots. The tutorial uses several different forms of technology and media to appeal to any learning style a student prefers, and it offers non-linear navigation to allow students to select the section they need, and to repeat any section.
Aerosol therapy past, present, and future: a clinician's perspective.

IntroductionWhy Use the Inhaled Route for Pulmonary Disease?Speed of OnsetImproved Therapeutic Index1970–2000: An Era of Relative Under-AchievementDevice IssuesPatient-Related FactorsComparison With Oral TherapyInfluence of Patient Factors on the Therapeutic IndexAerosol MythsMyth 1: “Aerosol Therapy Is Complex”Myth 2: “Current Devices Are Good Devices”The Need for a Journal of Irrelevant Aerosol TherapyAerosol Delivery for Nonasthma Pulmonary ConditionsHow Should We Cope with Existing Technology?The Future[Respir Care 2000;45(6):769–776] Key words: aerosol, metered-dose inhaler,nebulizer, dry powder inhaler.IntroductionThe publication of the Consensus Statement on Aero-sols and Delivery Devices in this issue of R
Technologies Use with ESL Learners in New York State: Preliminary Report.

This report presents preliminary research concerning a specific population of learners: learners whose native language is not English and who attend school in the state of New York. Our research focused on how English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers in the state view and use technologies to help develop their students' literacy skills. Data from a statewide survey and from initial interviews with fifty-six ESL teachers who use technologies in their teaching are discussed.
Production and performance of the silicon sensor and custom readout electronics for the PHENIX FVTX tracker

Abstract The Forward Silicon Vertex Tracker (FVTX) upgrade for the PHENIX detector at RHIC will extend the vertex capability of the central PHENIX Silicon Vertex Tracker (VTX). The FVTX is designed with adequate spatial resolution to separate decay muons coming from the relatively long-lived heavy quark mesons (Charm and Beauty), from prompt particles and the longer-lived pion and kaon decays that originate at the primary collision vertex. These heavy quarks can be used to probe the high-density medium that is formed in Au+Au collisions at RHIC. The FVTX is designed as two endcaps. Each endcap comprises four silicon disks covering opening angles from 10° to 35° to match the existing muon arm acceptance. Each disk consists of p-on-n, silicon wedges, with ac-coupled mini-strips on 75 μm radial pitch and projective length in the phi direction that increases with radius. A custom front-end chip, the FPHX, has been designed for the FVTX. The chip combines fast trigger capability with data push architecture in a low-power design.
Robust stability analysis of adaptation algorithms for single perceptron

The problem of robust stability and convergence of learning parameters of adaptation algorithms in a noisy environment for the single preceptron is addressed. The case in which the same input pattern is presented in the adaptation cycle is analyzed. The algorithm proposed is of the Widrow-Hoff type. It is concluded that this algorithm is robust. However, the weight vectors do not necessarily converge in the presence of measurement noise. A modified version of this algorithm in which the reduction factors are allowed to vary with time is proposed, and it is shown that this algorithm is robust and that the weight vectors converge in the presence of bounded noise. Only deterministic-type arguments are used in the analysis. An ultimate bound on the error in terms of a convex combination of the initial error and the bound on the noise is obtained. >
The Symbolic Worldview: Reply to Vera and Simon

Vera and Simon (1993) wish to choose up sides between two schools of research in cognitive science, their own symbolic approach versus a loosely associated group of authors concerned with "situated action" or "SA". I can understand Vera and Simon's need to treat these authors collectively, and I am sure they can understand any discomfort the authors might feel in being treated this way. I have often found it hard to tell whether Vera and Simon are disputing my own ideas or someone else's. Moreover, the term "SA" appears at various points to name different things: an intellectual movement, a category of computational models, an empirical phenomenon, and a particular functionality of symbolic systems. Differences in vocabulary and worldview have led Vera and Simon into formulations of my own views and others' that I do not recognize and occasionally cannot understand. Nonetheless, I do credit their effort to initiate dialogue and will attempt to reply in kind. First, some areas of broad agreement are clear. These include the value of much past research within the physical symbol system framework, the existence of various empirical phenomena, the difficulty of relating phenomenology to computational research, the relevance of both philosophy and cognitive modeling to cognitive science, and the social nature of human
GRASE (gradient- and spin-echo) MR of the brain.

PURPOSE To assess the clinical utility of GRASE (gradient- and spin-echo) MR imaging of the brain by comparing it with the T2-weighted turbo spin-echo technique. METHODS Fifty-three consecutive patients referred for MR imaging of the brain were studied with T2-weighted turbo spin-echo and GRASE techniques, matched for effective echo time (110 milliseconds), echo train length (eight), and spatial resolution. The examinations were evaluated independently by two neuroradiologists for lesion detection (high- and low-signal-intensity lesions) and lesion conspicuity, and for susceptibility, motion, and chemical-shift artifacts. RESULTS The GRASE technique provided greater detection of both high- and low-signal-intensity lesions and of low-signal-intensity lesions with paramagnetic susceptibility characteristics (ie, calcium and hemorrhage). Chemical-shift artifacts in the frequency-encoding direction were more prominent with the turbo spin-echo technique, whereas chemical-shift artifacts in the phase-encoding direction were more prominent with the GRASE technique. There was no significant difference in the degree of diamagnetic susceptibility artifacts at the base of the skull, or in motion artifacts. CONCLUSION T2-weighted GRASE is a fast imaging technique with a potential for replacing turbo spin-echo in routine MR imaging of the brain. GRASE maintains the contrast resolution of turbo spin-echo imaging and is better at depicting lesions with paramagnetic susceptibility characteristics.
Energy Sorghum—a genetic model for the design of C4 grass bioenergy crops

Sorghum is emerging as an excellent genetic model for the design of C4 grass bioenergy crops. Annual energy Sorghum hybrids also serve as a source of biomass for bioenergy production. Elucidation of Sorghum's flowering time gene regulatory network, and identification of complementary alleles for photoperiod sensitivity, enabled large-scale generation of energy Sorghum hybrids for testing and commercial use. Energy Sorghum hybrids with long vegetative growth phases were found to accumulate more than twice as much biomass as grain Sorghum, owing to extended growing seasons, greater light interception, and higher radiation use efficiency. High biomass yield, efficient nitrogen recycling, and preferential accumulation of stem biomass with low nitrogen content contributed to energy Sorghum's elevated nitrogen use efficiency. Sorghum's integrated genetics-genomics-breeding platform, diverse germplasm, and the opportunity for annual testing of new genetic designs in controlled environments and in multiple field locations is aiding fundamental discovery, and accelerating the improvement of biomass yield and optimization of composition for biofuels production. Recent advances in wide hybridization between Sorghum and other C4 grasses could allow the deployment of improved genetic designs of annual energy Sorghums in the form of wide-hybrid perennial crops. The current trajectory of energy Sorghum genetic improvement indicates that it will be possible to sustainably produce biofuels from C4 grass bioenergy crops that are cost competitive with petroleum-based transportation fuels.
Influence of a GABA agonist, diazepam, on the vestibuloocular reflexes of the rabbit☆

Abstract We have studied the influence of intravenously administered diazepam on the horizontal (HVOR) and vertical (VVOR) vestibuloocular reflexes of the rabbit, and on the activity of single secondary vestibular neurons. The HVOR was evoked by sinusoidal oscillation of rabbits on a rate table (0.01−0.8 Hz , ± 10 deg ) and eye movements were measured with an infrared light projection technique. The gains of the HVOR and VVOR (evoked eye velocity/head velocity) were reduced by diazepam injections of 5 μg/kg. The dose required to produce a 50% reduction in HVOR gain was 500 μg/kg. The time required to reduce the HVOR gain to 50% of its maximal reduction at a dose of 400 μg/kg (0.4 Hz , ± 10 deg ) was 60 sec. Intravenous injections of diazepam (20–100 μg/kg) caused a decreased sensitivity of secondary vestibular neurons to sinusoidal angular accelerations. This reduction in sensitivity was observed in secondary neurons which were excited by ipsilateral or contralateral angular acceleration. Thus, diazepam in low doses depresses the vestibuloocular reflex and this reflex depression can be observed at the level of the secondary vestibular neuron. These data suggest that diazepam might be effective as an acute anti-motion sickness agent.
Decreased Infectivity despite Unaltered C3 Binding by a ΔhbhA Mutant of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

HbhA of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a multifunctional binding protein, binding to both sulfated sugars such as heparin and to human complement component C3. HbhA may therefore interact with host molecules and/or host cells during M. tuberculosis infection and play a role in the pathogenesis of this bacterium. The purpose of this study was to use allelic exchange to create an M. tuberculosis strain deficient in expression of HbhA to determine whether this protein's C3-binding activity plays a role in the pathogenesis of M. tuberculosis. An in-frame, 576-bp unmarked deletion in the hbhA gene was created using sacB as a counterselectable marker. Southern blotting and PCR analyses confirmed deletion of hbhA in the ΔhbhA mutant. The ΔhbhA mutant strain grew at a rate similar to that of the parent in broth culture and in J774.A1 murine macrophage-like cells but was deficient in growth compared to the parent strain in the lungs, liver, and spleen of infected mice. In addition, the ΔhbhA mutation did not reduce binding of M. tuberculosis to human C3 or to J774.A1 cells in the presence or absence of serum, suggesting that in the absence of HbhA, other molecules serve as C3-binding molecules on the M. tuberculosis surface. Taken together, these data indicate that HbhA is important in the infectivity of M. tuberculosis, but its ability to bind C3 is not required for mycobacterial adherence to macrophage-like cells. Using the ΔhbhA mutant strain, a second M. tuberculosis C3-binding protein similar in size to HbhA was identified as HupB, but the role of HupB as a C3-binding protein in intact organisms remains to be determined.
Functional Specificity of Ventral Striatal Compartments in Appetitive Behaviors

The nucleus accumbens and its associated circuitry subserve behaviors linked to natural or biological rewards, such as feeding, drinking, sex, exploration, and appetitive learning. We have investigated the functional role of neurotransmitter and intracellular transduction mechanisms in behaviors subserved by the core and shell subsystems within the accumbens. Local infusion of the selective NMDA antagonist, AP-5, into the accumbens core, but not the shell, completely blocked acquisition of a bar-press response for food in hungry rats. This effect was apparent only when infused during the early stages of learning. We have also recently shown that infusion of certain protein kinase inhibitors into the core also impairs learning in the same paradigm. These results suggest that plasticity-related mechanisms within the accumbens core, involving glutamate-linked intracellular second messengers, are important for response-reinforcement learning. In contrast to the core, which primarily connects to somatic motor output systems, the shell is more intimately linked to viscero-endocrine effector systems. We have shown that both AMPA and GABA receptors within the medial shell (but not the core) are critically involved in controlling the brain's feeding pathways, via activation of the lateral hypothalamus (LH). This effect is blocked by local inhibition of the LH in double-cannulae experiments and also strongly and selectively activates Fos expression in the LH. These results provide a newly emerging picture of the differentiated functions of this forebrain region and suggest an integrated role in the elaboration of adaptive motor actions.
Experience with 88 consecutive cases of brain abscess.

✓ The records of 88 patients with intraparenchymal brain abscess treated during 1946–1971 were reviewed. The incidence of brain abscess did not decline significantly during this period. The overall mortality rate was 36.4%, and the operative mortality rate 29.1%. The most frequent findings were alteration of consciousness, headache, and elevated peripheral white blood cell count; fever, hemiparesis, seizures, neck stiffness, nausea and vomiting, and papilledema were less common. Lumbar puncture was a definite threat to the patient with a brain abscess. Ventriculography appeared slightly superior to angiography in accurately localizing the site of the abscess. There was a close correlation between the preoperative level of consciousness and the operative mortality rate. With the aid of Thorotrast, simple aspiration or drainage was superior to excision; when Thorotrast was not used, excision produced better results. The rate of postoperative seizure disorder was similar regardless of the type of treatment. ...
The Role of Immigration in the Decline of an Isolated Migratory Bird Population

Low immigration is rarely considered a potential causal factor in the population decline of migra- tory birds. Because migratory songbirds exhibit low natal philopatry, however, recruitment is from outside the population. Therefore, if isolation affects immigration the geographic fragmentation of a species' range may result in population declines. I tested four hypotheses on the possible causes of population decline of an isolated population of Yellow-headed Blackbirds (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus )i nIllinois (U.S.A.): (1) local habi- tat loss, (2) poor reproductive success, (3) low adult survival, and (4) low immigration. Historical accounts indicate this population has declined and become more isolated over the last century. From 1998 to 2003, I determined the population size, the annual return rate, and mean reproductive success of Yellow-headed Blackbirds in Illinois. I also determined the amount of suitable habitat for the species in the area. Over the course of the study the population declined by 25%. Although habitat loss was likely to be responsible for the population's historical decline, currently the habitat is not saturated and many seemingly appropriate sites remain unoccupied. The reproductive success of the Illinois population is one of the highest recorded for this species. Adult survival was within the range of survival values found in other stable populations. Yellow-headed Blackbirds, like most migratory passerines, exhibit low natal philopatry; therefore, recruitment is primarily from outside the population. Recruitment was unusually low in this population, suggesting the population's isolation on the periphery of the species' range has reduced the number of immigrants. Although individuals in the population had high survival and reproduction, the population continued to decline because of low im- migration. Conventional management (i.e., restoring habitat) may not mitigate a population's decline if low immigration is responsible for the decline. Greater connectivity at a large scale may be necessary to conserve isolated populations of migratory birds.
STABILIZATION POLICY AS BIFURCATION SELECTION: WOULD STABILIZATION POLICY WORK IF THE ECONOMY REALLY WERE UNSTABLE?

This is the author's final draft of an article which is available in its originally published version from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S1365100502020023
Insulin-like growth factor gene expression during rat embryonic development.

The function of insulin-like growth factors I and II (IGF-I and IGF-II) in embryogenesis is unknown. To investigate the ontogeny of IGF gene expression during mammalian development we used a highly sensitive and specific solutionhybridization assay to determine the steady state levels of IGF mRNAs during midgestation in the rat. IGF-I mRNA can be detected as early as day 11 of embryonic development and rises 8.6-fold over the ensuing 48 h. By contrast IGF-II mRNA is relatively constant over days 11-14 of gestation. These observations suggest that both IGFs may play important roles in early fetal development. (Endocrinology 121: 2141–2144, 1987)
Inverse-Type Sampling Procedure for Estimating the Number of Multinomial Classes

Abstract A procedure with inverse-type sampling is proposed for the estimation of the number of classes (or cells) in a given multinomial distribution with a devised stopping rule that satisfies a preassigned P*-condition and controls the probability of a correct decision P{CD}. Dirichlet Integrals of Type II are adapted for developing the procedure, which is based on a decision-theoretic approach. We assume that we know neither the number of classes (or cells) nor the cell probabilities (parameters) of the given multinomial but we do assume the minimum cell probability e(>0). Finally, the Monte Carlo experimentation is carried out in order to illustrate the theoretical results and the behavior of proposed procedure.
Whole Blood Lumiaggregation: Evaluation of Reagents

We evaluated the whole blood lumiaggregation system, which analyzed the optimal sample dilutions and ago nist concentrations. We also showed that platelet aggregation using the whole blood impedance technique, as compared to the platelet-rich plasma optical method, yielded similar informa tion. In the extension of that study, we further evaluated the stability of the reagents used in platelet aggregation. The most commonly used agonists thrombin, ristocetin, arachidonic acid, adenosine diphosphate, and collagen were monitored over a 1-year period. Throughout the entire period, aliquots of the reconstituted reagents were stored at -20°C, -50°C, and -70°C, with the exception for collagen, which was kept at 4°C. Every 2 weeks tests were performed using the whole blood from the same healthy volunteer. Platelet aggregation and aden osine diphosphate release were measured after stimulation with 1.0 U/mL thrombin, 1.0 mg/mL ristocetin, 0.5 mM arachidonic acid, 10 μM adenosine diphosphate or 3 μg/mL collagen. The...
Piezoelectric composite lattices with high sensitivity

Lattice structures are presented with a piezoelectric sensitivity, d, much larger in magnitude than that of material comprising the lattice ribs. Large sensitivity is achieved by using piezoelectric bimorph elements as ribs; these bend in response to electric input, giving rise to a much larger displacement than for axial elements. Complex electrical connectivity is helpful, but not necessary; surface contact can be sufficient. Lattices are amenable to piezoelectric vibration damping. Piezoelectric sensitivity can be arbitrarily large and is unbounded.
Randomized leader election

We present an efficient randomized algorithm for leader election in large-scale distributed systems. The proposed algorithm is optimal in message complexity (O(n) for a set of n total processes), has round complexity logarithmic in the number of processes in the system, and provides high probabilistic guarantees on the election of a unique leader. The algorithm relies on a balls and bins abstraction and works in two phases. The main novelty of the work is in the first phase where the number of contending processes is reduced in a controlled manner. Probabilistic quorums are used to determine a winner in the second phase. We discuss, in detail, the synchronous version of the algorithm, provide extensions to an asynchronous version and examine the impact of failures.
Skin and surface lead contamination, hygiene programs, and work practices of bridge surface preparation and painting contractors.

A 2005 regulatory review of the lead in construction standard by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) noted that alternative pathways of exposure can be as significant as inhalation exposure and that noncompliance with the standard pertaining to hygiene facilities and practices was the second most commonly violated section of the standard. Noncompliance with provisions of the standard and unhealthy work and hygiene practices likely increase the likelihood of take-home lead via contaminated clothing, automobiles, and skin, thus contributing to elevated blood lead levels (BLL) among construction workers and their family members. We performed a cross-sectional study of bridge painters working for small contractors in Massachusetts to investigate causes of persistent elevated BLLs and to assess lead exposures. Thirteen work sites were evaluated for a 2-week period during which surface and skin wipe samples were collected and qualitative information was obtained on personal hygiene practice...
Embedded Premium Promotion: Why It Works and How to Make It More Effective

In this paper we define an embedded premium EP as an enhancement that involves a social cause added on to a product or service. We characterize EP as a sales promotion strategy and juxtapose it with traditional approaches, such as discounts and rebates. Across three experiments, using a nationwide Internet panel and employing stated measures and model-based inference, we find that at low denominations EP is more effective than an equivalent price discount. We describe how an EP's social association may influence consumer choice quite differently than price promotions and, contrary to the asymmetric price promotion effect documented in the promotions literature, we find that EP benefits an unknown brand more than a known brand. Our hierarchical Bayes approach uncovers heterogeneity in EP effectiveness that can be explained by affinity toward the focal charity, personal motivations, and demographic markers. An identifiable segment of individuals prefer the “other” over “self,” suggesting possible EP optimization and segmentation strategies. Two such strategies, customization and coverage, are empirically tested, and the former is shown to be very effective. Our findings have broad implications for brand managers with regard to resource allocation and EP program return on investment ROI, as well as important social welfare implications.
Development of the Lacrimal Apparatus in the Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Its Potential Role as an Animal Model for Humans

Rabbits have been proposed as a model organism for the human lacrimal apparatus (LA), including the nasolacrimal duct (NLD), based principally on comparative studies of adult morphology; however, little is known about its development. The NLD first appears as an incomplete primordium in the subcutaneous region of the primordial eyelid and subsequently elongates to reach the naris. One posterior and three anterior orbital glands are present fetally although one of the anterior glands is soon lost. The NLD follows a tortuous path and passes through a bony canal consisting of lacrimal, maxilla, and maxilloturbinal bones at different regions. Although early developmental similarities exist to haplorhine primates, the narial opening of the NLD resembles strepsirrhines. This distinction, along with the ductal and glandular differences at the orbital end of the NLD, indicates that rabbits may be a poor model for LA drainage in primates, specifically humans.