cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
‘Data Warehouse’ und ‘Online Analytical Processing’

In diesem Kapitel werden die Konzepte des ‘Data Warehouse’ und ‘Online Analytical Processing’ als exemplarisches Anwendungsgebiet der multidimensionalen Datenanalyse eingefuhrt. Schenkt man Marktprognosen Glauben, so ist ‘Data Warehouse’ vor allem Eines: “Big Business ”. Wurden 1996 nur $4.5 Milliarden fur ‘Data Warehouse’-Projekte ausgegeben, so wird fur das Jahr 2000 ein Umsatz von $15 Milliarden prognostiziert ([Meta98]). Auch im wissenschaftlichen Bereich hat das Konzept des ‘Data Warehouse’ und die daraus resultierenden Anforderungen an Datenbanksysteme sowohl auf modellierungstechnischer aus auch auf systemtechnischer Ebene neue Impulse induziert. Einen umfassenden Uberblick uber forschungsrelevante Themen auf diesem Gebiet gibt [Wido95]. Die darin enthaltenen Ausfuhrungen werden durch die Arbeiten von [ChDa97] und [WuBu97] erganzt.
LAPTOPS, AIRPORTS, AND THE BORDER: EXPANDING TECHNOLOGY AND THE SHRINKING FOURTH AMENDMENT IN UNITED STATES V. ARNOLD

Introduction 1117 I. The Shrinking Fourth Amendment 1119 A. Firm Rules to a Flexible Test 1119 B. The Sovereign's Inherent Authority at the Border 1121 C. The Border Search Exception 1122 D. What is Routine? 1123 II. The Road to Arnold 1125 III. From the Philippines to the Ninth Circuit 1127 IV. The Opinion in United States v. Arnold 1129 A. The Government's Plenary Power at the Border 1129 B. Is the Search of a Laptop Intrusive? 1130 C. Rejection of the Lower Court's Sliding Scale Test 1131 D. Mobile Homes, Paper Bags, and Computers 1134 V. What Should be Done at the Airport Instead 1135 A. Border Search Exception Should be Eliminated 1135 B. Laptop Searches are Highly Intrusive and Nonroutine 1136 C. Laptop Searches Must be Limited in Scope 1137 D. The Law Must Adapt With Technology 1138 E. Laptop Searches are Outside Scope of Border Search Exception 1139 F. What Arnold Means to Everyone at the Airport 1140 1. Current September 11th Thinking 1140 2. Arnold has Already Doomed Another Traveler 1141 Conclusion 1142 “These [Fourth Amendment rights], I protest, are not mere second-class rights but belong in the catalog of indispensable freedoms. Among deprivations of rights, none is so effective in cowing a population, crushing the spirit of the individual and putting terror in every heart. Uncontrolled search and seizure is one of the first and most effective weapons in the arsenal of every arbitrary government.” Justice Robert H. Jackson. a1
The Optical Variability of Selected Blazars

The optical variability of a small number of BL Lacertae objects and OVV quasars have been monitored from 1972 to the present time. Major long term trends in their brightness have been observed with total amplitudes sometimes as large as 5.0 magnitudes detected as in the case of OJ 287. These variations have been observed to occur on the timescales of years. The nature of shorter term variations with amplitudes from 0.5 – 2.0 magnitudes on timescales of days to months have also been observed and investigated. An extensive effort has been made to investigate the possibility of significant optical variations which might occur on timescales much shorter than one day. Observations have been obtained which conclusively demonstrate that short-term, small amplitude variations occur frequently for BL Lacertae. An investigation of a number of other members of this class of objects has also revealed this type of optical activity to be present.
Distributed File Systems

A distributed file system, also known as a network file system, is a means for to access data transparently across a network. A user should not have to know whether a file actually resides locally or on a remote server. In the typical distributed file system architecture in Fig. 1(a), a client uses the same standard file system calls that are translated into network requests at runtime. If the access to remote data is not transparent, a client might have to retrieve explicitly a file locally, make modifications, and then move explicitly the file back to the server as in Fig. 1(b). Distributed file systems are a broad topic in computer science. We have organized our discussion into four distinct areas. We begin by focusing on high availability techniques that improve uptime and provide support for mobile or disconnected operation. Then, we closely examine several protocol standards for compatibility and implementation-independent optimizations. The next section describes several distributed file systems that are tuned for high-performance computing (HPC) applications. Finally, we discuss several distributed file systems that have application-specific features. Keywords: file system; server; network; cache; google; storage; security
Rapid Method for Detection and Quantitation of Hydroxylated Aromatic Intermediates Produced by Microorganisms

Tetrazotized o-dianisidine was used for quantitative measurements of the amount of 1-naphthol formed from naphthalene by fungi in liquid cultures. The reagent was also used to detect the accumulation of phenols and cis-dihydrodiols in fungal and bacterial colonies on solid media.
Vibrational spectra and structure of small ring compounds. XVIII - 3-oxetanone

Gaseous 3-oxetanone ring compound, investigating IR and vibrational spectra and molecular structure
Contraception with intrauterine plastic loops

Abstract A flexible polyethylene plastic loop for intrauterine contraception which can be inserted without dilation of the cervix gave an over-all pregnancy rate of 2.2 per 100 women per year, 4.8 for the smaller and 1.0 for the larger size. Menstrual and intermenstrual bleeding were increased during the early months. Expulsions during the first 12 months of use were 21.0 per cent for the smaller and 7.7 per cent for the larger size. Removals for reasons related to the method during the same period were 15.2 per cent for the smaller and 14.4 per cent for the larger size. A linear polyethylene suture extending into the vagina makes it easy to determine whether the loop is still in place. When the loop was removed from 32 women who wanted a child, more than half became pregnant in 3 months, and none took longer than 9 months. All the children were normal. No increase in the proportion having pelvic inflammatory disease was noted. The rates found were 0.4 and 0.7 per 100 women years. Endometrial biopsies and Papanicolaou smears gave no evidence that the method induced carcinoma. The intrauterine loop appears to be an acceptable, safe, inexpensive, and effective method of contraception.
Remotely controlled positioning lasers

Positioning lasers used in radiotherapy generally require little adjustment. When required, this is easy to do for sidelights, but can be difficult and time consuming for ceiling mounted lasers. For this purpose, we have modified a commercial positioning laser by incorporating a device for rotating the alignment adjustment screws. This device is driven by a pair of motors remotely controlled through a cable. Two units have been built and installed. In practice, experience with these drive units has shown that it is now easier to adjust the ceiling lasers than the sidelights. Adjustment sensitivity in both units is considerably better than 1 mm, so there is little problem aligning the laser quickly and accurately.
Two Dragon Heads: Contrasting Development Paths for Beijing and Shanghai

In broad terms, the sources of economic growth are well understood, but relatively few countries have succeeded in effectively harnessing this knowledge for policy purposes so as to sustain high rates of growth over an extended period of time. Among the ones that have done so, China stands out. Its gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate, which averaged almost 10 percent between 1978 and 2008, is unmatched. Even more remarkable is the performance of China's three leading industrial regions: the Bohai region, the Pearl River Delta, and the Yangtze River (Changjiang) delta area. These regions have averaged growth rates well above 11 percent since 1985. Shanghai is the urban axis of the Yangtze River Delta's thriving economy; Beijing is the hinge of the Bohai region. Their performance and that of a handful of other urban regions will determine China's economic fortunes and innovativeness in the coming decades. The balance of this volume is divided into five chapters. Chapter two encapsulates the sources of China's growth and the current and future role of urban regions in China. The case for the continuing substantial presence of manufacturing industry for growth and innovation in the two urban centers is made in chapter three. Chapter four briefly examines the economic transformation of four global cities and distills stylized trends that can inform future development in Beijing and Shanghai. Chapter five describes the industrial structure of the two cities, identifies promising industrial areas, and analyzes the resource base that would underpin growth fueled by innovation. Finally, chapter six suggests how strategy could be reoriented on the basis of the lessons delineated in chapter four and the economic capabilities presented in chapter five.
The effect of the choice of wave functions on theoretical predictions for symmetry breaking processes: A view from the DKP formalism

When considering an elementary particle matrix element, of necessity one must make an assumption, which often goes unnoticed, as to what formalism should be used for the wave functions. A current or interaction Lagrangian-density matrix-element is of the form \(V = \bar \psi _{out} \Gamma \psi _{in}\) , where ψin and \(\bar \psi _{out}\) represent the physical ingoing and outgoing particles, and r represents the vertex function. A current must have the dimensions of (length)-3 = (mass)3 in units of ▄ = c = 1 ψin and \(\bar \psi _{out}\) must be described in terms of the physical on-shell masses or else one has no phase space. It is only the vertex function which can be symmetric in the internal symmetry under consideration.
Acute myeloid leukemia secondary to oxaliplatin treatment for esophageal cancer.

Introduction Therapy-related leukemias (TRL) are neoplasms that occur as a late consequence after exposure to certain cytotoxic agents or radiation. Several cytotoxic agents have been implicated in the development of TRL. These include alkylating agents (melphalan, cyclophosphamide); platinum compounds (cisplatin, carboplatin); and topoisomerase-2 inhibitors, such as etoposide, daunorubicin, and mitoxantrone. The latency period between exposure and the development of TRL varies from a few months to several years, depending on the cytotoxic agent. TRL after exposure to alkylating agents is thought to typically develop after a latency of more than 3 years; whereas, that which develops with use of opoisomerase-2 inhibitors typically present within 1 to 3 years. Cisplain, as well as carboplatin, used in the treatment of a wide variety of alignancies, have previously been linked with TRL, whereas, the role f oxaliplatin (1,2-diaminocyclohexane oxalato platinum) (OXP), a
A Technique for Pancreaticogastrostomy

A technique for pancreaticogastrostomy is presented. The technique is a one-layer, invaginated anastomosis of the pancreatic remnant to the posterior gastric wall following a Whipple resection of the pancreatic head. Key steps to achieve a successful anastomosis are described. Using this technique, there have been no pancreatic anastomotic leaks in 29 consecutive patients.
A New Fixed-Priority Scheduling Algorithm with (m,k)-Firm Guarantee

Weakly hard real-time application requires that scheduling algorithm should provide service satisfied QoS parameter, so a new fixed-priority scheduling algorithm with (m,k)-firm guarantee is presented. It assigns scheduling priority of task based on period and QoS parameter, and the task is switched between preemptive state and optional state to reflect its pressure. Schedulability test inequation of the algorithm is presented in the paper. The validity and the flexibility of the algorithm are proved through the analysis of classical task sets.
Performance analysis of lightwave packet communication networks

To interconnect multiple user stations in Local Area Networks (LANs) and/or Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) environment a ShuffleNet multichannel multihop Lightwave Packet Communication Network concept has been recently proposed. The Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) concept is applied to provide a total network capacity in the order of hundreds or thousands of Giga bits/second (Gbps) with each user station assigned a peak limited capacity of 1 Gbps. The performance analysis of a ShuffleNet multihop lightwave network under uniform and nonuniform input traffic load patterns are studied and the corresponding simulation results are presented in this paper. The input traffic load to the network consists of uniform as well as nonuniform traffic patterns. . A fewer ShuffleNet network topologies are simulated and A Fixed Routing algorithm as well as an Adaptive Routing algorithm are applied for routing the uniform and nonuniform input packet traffic requirements. The resultant average network throughput and packet delay performance characteristic curves are plotted and analyzed. The corresponding simulation results indicate that the adaptive routing algorithm provides better average network throughput and packet delay performance characteristics when compared to fixed routing algorithm.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The Helicobacter pylori Amidotransferase GatCAB Is Equally Efficient in Glutamine-dependent Transamidation of Asp-tRNAAsn and Glu-tRNAGln

The amide aminoacyl-tRNAs, Gln-tRNA(Gln) and Asn-tRNA(Asn), are formed in many bacteria by a pretranslational tRNA-dependent amidation of the mischarged tRNA species, Glu-tRNA(Gln) or Asp-tRNA(Asn). This conversion is catalyzed by a heterotrimeric amidotransferase GatCAB in the presence of ATP and an amide donor (Gln or Asn). Helicobacter pylori has a single GatCAB enzyme required in vivo for both Gln-tRNA(Gln) and Asn-tRNA(Asn) synthesis. In vitro characterization reveals that the enzyme transamidates Asp-tRNA(Asn) and Glu-tRNA(Gln) with similar efficiency (k(cat)/K(m) of 1368.4 s(-1)/mM and 3059.3 s(-1)/mM respectively). The essential glutaminase activity of the enzyme is a property of the A-subunit, which displays the characteristic amidase signature sequence. Mutations of the GatA catalytic triad residues (Lys(52), Ser(128), Ser(152)) abolished glutaminase activity and consequently the amidotransferase activity with glutamine as the amide donor. However, the latter activity was rescued when the mutant enzymes were presented with ammonium chloride. The presence of Asp-tRNA(Asn) and ATP enhances the glutaminase activity about 22-fold. H. pylori GatCAB uses the amide donor glutamine 129-fold more efficiently than asparagine, suggesting that GatCAB is a glutamine-dependent amidotransferase much like the unrelated asparagine synthetase B. Genomic analysis suggests that most bacteria synthesize asparagine in a glutamine-dependent manner, either by a tRNA-dependent or in a tRNA-independent route. However, all known bacteria that contain asparagine synthetase A form Asn-tRNA(Asn) by direct acylation catalyzed by asparaginyl-tRNA synthetase. Therefore, bacterial amide aminoacyl-tRNA formation is intimately tied to amide amino acid metabolism.
Exposure and compositional factors that influence polarization induced birefringence in silica glass

Silica glass exhibits a permanent anisotropic response, referred to as polarization induced birefringence (PIB), when exposed to short wavelength, polarized light. The magnitude of the PIB has been empirically correlated with the OH content of the glass. Our recent studies pertaining to PIB have focused on careful characterization of PIB, with particular emphasis on understanding all of the contributions to the measured birefringence signal and finally extracting only that signal associated with birefringence arising from exposure to a polarized light beam. We will demonstrate that a critical contributor to the total birefringence signal is birefringence that comes from exposure beam inhomogeneities. After subtracting beam profile effects we are able to show that PIB is proportional to the OH content of the glass. Polarized infrared (IR) measurements were performed on glasses that developed PIB as a consequence of exposure to polarized 157-nm light. These studies reveal that there is preferential bleaching of a specific hydroxyl (OH) species in the glass with OH aligned parallel to the incident polarization undergoing more bleaching than those perpendicular. Further, we observe a very strong correlation between the measured PIB of these samples and the anisotropic bleaching. From these studies we propose a mechanism that can explain the role of hydroxyl in PIB.
Placeholder Content in Game Development: Benefits and Challenges

Literature on game design and development recommends using placeholder content and assets as a technique for, amongst other things, working around production bottlenecks (e.g. needs music to work but music is not ready) and streamlining development (e.g. focus on the "fun", without getting distracted by the art). However, this commonly accepted practice can cause problems that are rarely discussed or presented. We unpack this practice by discussing some of its issues. As a practice that is central to game development, it is important to better understand the interactions of social, technical, and cultural factors that result in the creation of sophisticated software artifacts, i.e. computer games. We discuss some of these issues and sketch out a research agenda for their further exploration.
How cells tell time.

Abstract Many physiological phenomena are rhythmic and coincide with a particular time of day. These `circadian rhythms' are not dependent on external timing cues but are driven by internal circadian clocks that are ubiquitous features of living organisms. Although many of these rhythms manifest themselves as complex behavioural patterns, we now know that a circadian clock does not require a complex organism or an elaborate nervous system; it can be built from molecules within an individual cell. This review focuses on new advances in identifying and understanding the basic properties of cellular circadian clocks.
On the unreliability of judgments of certain social situations by minority groups

In certain situations like the aftermath of a revolution when discontent rises amongst certain groups of the population, it is frequently observed that the discontented groups are firmly convinced that their point of view is shared by the majority of the population. Yet future events prove that this is far from being the case. This effect is partly attributable to “wishful thinking,” partly to a purely social mechanism. The wishful-thinking effect may be considered as a case of psycho-physical discrimination in which a bias is introduced proportional to the degree of satisfaction anticipated from a given situation. H. D. Landahl's well-known equations can be applied to this case. The social factor is based on the circumstance that an individual associates by preference with such other individuals as have similar opinions. This results in an actual error of estimation of the relative minority or majority because of different frequencies of contact with individuals of the two opposing groups. Both factors may be combined into one equation.
Unified Discipline: A School-Wide Approach for Managing Problem Behavior.

Teachers are concerned about the growing inclusion of students with emotional and behavioral problems in general education classrooms and the increasing level of diversity common in America's schools. Proactive, school-wide approaches are considered best practice in addressing the challenge of maintaining discipline. Unified Discipline is a promising schoolwide intervention designed to support administrators, teachers, and other school personnel in meeting these needs by establishing unified attitudes, expectations, correction procedures, and team roles. This article explains how to implement Unified Discipline as a school-wide approach to managing problem behavior.
Stimulation of human monocytes by anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody: Induction of inflammatory mediator release via immobilization of Fc receptor by adsorbed immunoglobulin and T-lymphocytes

Human monocytes released superoxide anion, prostaglandin E2, leukotriene B4, IL-1, and TNF when exposed to plastic surfaces coated with murine anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody, OKT 3. Stimulation of mediator release by OKT 3 was dependent on the amount of antibody immobilized onto wells of plastic tissue culture plates. Soluble antibody or antibody adsorbed to monocytes and reacted with an aggregating (“cross-linking”) second antibody failed to induce mediator release. Monocytes “armed” with OKT 3 formed rosettes with T cells in a fashion indistinguishable from that seen between monocytes and T cells sensitized with OKT 3. Monocytes with adsorbed OKT 3 antibodies released IL-1β and TNF-α when exposed to unsensitized T cells, although increased superoxide release could not be detected. OKT 4a, a murine IgG2a antibody that reacts with a different T cell epitope (CD4), failed to induce cytokine release from monocytes when cross-linked by T cells or a CD4+ T cell line, even in the presence of IL-2 or IFN-γ. These data indicate that certain antibodies bound to Fc receptors (FcR) of monocytes may trigger monocyte function when reacting with cells bearing the appropriate target antigens. FcR-mediated signaling resulting in mediator release may be involved in initiating or regulating the immune response. Furthermore, systemically administered monoclonal antibodies may induce inflammatory responses and their attendant symptomatologies via their interaction with FcR-bearing inflammatory cells.
Repeatability and heritability of lactational occurrence of reproductive disorders in dairy cows

Abstract The repeatability and heritability of reproductive disorders were estimated using data from 28 277 Finnish Ayrshire cows. A four-trait linear model including effects of community-year, calving age and month, birth year of the sire, and random sire was used. The number of sires was 339. Variance components were estimated using a method of restricted maximum likelihood. The disease traits were analyzed also with a categorical model including the same effects except that community and year were included as two separate factors. Variance components were estimated with the method of marginal maximum likelihood. Genetic relationships between sires were included in both models. The phenotypic correlation between the first and second lactation was defined as a repeatability of the trait. The lactational incidence risk of reproductive disorders was 0.16 in the first lactation and 0.15 in the second. The risk of ovulatory disorder (anestrus and subestrus, 41%; cyst, 46%; other infertility, 13%) and metritis (early, 63%; late, 37%) were 0.13 and 0.04 in the first lactation and 0.13 and 0.03 in the second lactation, respectively. Average milk production was 4956 (6095 as 3.5% fat corrected milk (FCM)) kg in the first and 5547 (6805 as 3.5% FCM) kg in the second lactation. Estimates of heritabilities in the first lactation were 0.03 and 0.04 (0.03 and 0.02 in the second lactation) for ovulatory disorder and for metritis, respectively. Genetic correlations between the first and the second lactation recordings were 0.60 for ovulatory disorder, −0.58 for metritis and 0.94 for milk yield. Repeatabilities between subsequent lactations were 0.33 for ovulatory disorder, 0.24 for metritis, and 0.67 for milk yield. In the first lactation, the genetic relationship between milk yield and ovulatory disorder and between milk yield and metritis were large and unfavorable. Also in the second lactation, the genetic correlation between milk yield and ovulatory disorder was large, but the correlation between milk yield and metritis was zero.
Evaluation of worker exposure to benzene.

estimated 2-3 million workers are potentially exposed to benzene (ATSDR 1989). It is important to have cancer risk factors available for the evaluation of worker exposures in various settings. The risk factors for benzene published by the EPA are designed to evaluate general population exposure (not worker exposure) and do not include the results of recent studies. In this paper, risk factors are derived for the evaluation of worker cancer risk due to the inhalation and ingestion of benzene. These cancer risk factors are characterized by route, species, strain, sex, dose, dose rate/kg, and fraction of lifetime exposed. Such characterization facilitates the matching of a risk factor to any exposure situation. Example applications of the risk factors are presented. These examples concern OSHA's permissible exposure limit (PEL) for benzene, inhalation exposure at leaking underground gasoline storage tank sites (LUSTs), and ingestion of contaminated soil. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cancer risk factors are usually derived from experimental studies in units of excess risk/(mg/m 3) or excess risk/(mg/kg/day). Experimental studies can be animal or epidemiologic. In order to obtain a risk factor, it is first necessary to compute excess risk and equivalent human dose from an experimental study. Excess risk is the frequency of response in the exposed group corrected for the control group response. The equivalent human dose from an animal or epidemiology study is a function of the following variables: pharmacokinetics; body weight (or surface area); exposure concentration; daily Send reprint requests to W. Hallenbeck at the above address.
Effects of dobutamine on atrioventricular conduction.

Abstract Dobutamine, a new beta-stimulating catecholamine, has been investigated in terms of its effect upon atrioventricular conduction. Bundle of His recordings were obtained on six patients in basal conditions and with right atrial pacing at rates of 100, 120, and 140 per minute. Recordings were repeated following intravenous administration of Dobutamine in doses of 5, 10, and 15 μg per kilogram per minute. Dose-response curves were thus obtained for A-H and H-V intervals. Heart rate increased only moderately with progressive concentrations of the drug. Very significant facilitation of A-H conduction was demonstrated with doses of 10 and 15 μg per kilogram per minute, with no effect upon H-V times. Dobutamine may be a clinically useful inotropic agent in conditions associated with A-V conduction disturbances.
An interactive pseudo-assembler for introductory computer science

Since 1968 the University of Iowa Computer Science Department has used a locally developed Easy Assembler SYstem (EASY) to accomplish a better comprehension of the concepts taught in the segment of the introductory computing course which dealt with internal structure and organization.In the fall of 1973 my attention focused on EASY (with all of its problems) as a likely candidate for a computerized-interactive-tutorial segment of this course. Since the consistency of use and precision in presentation were important aspects of teaching the concepts related to EASY, such an approach seemed natural.
Statistics of Branched Flow in a Weak Correlated Random Potential

Recent images of electron flow through a two-dimensional electron gas device show branching behavior that is reproduced in numerical simulations of motion in a correlated random potential [M. A. Topinka et al., Nature 410, 183 (2001)]. We show how such branching arises from caustics in the classical flow and find a simple scaling behavior of the branching under variation of the random potential strength. Analytic results describing statistical properties of the branching are confirmed by classical and quantum numerical tests.
Low-level microwave irradiation and central cholinergic activity: a dose-response study.

Rats were irradiated with circularly polarized, 2,450-MHz pulsed microwaves (2-microseconds pulses, 500 pulses per second [pps]) for 45 min in the cylindrical waveguide system of Guy et al:(Radio Sci 14:63-74, 1979). Immediately after exposure, sodium-dependent high-affinity choline uptake, an indicator of cholinergic activity in neural tissue, was measured in the striatum, frontal cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus. The power density was set to give average whole-body specific absorption rates (SAR) of 0.3, 0.45, 0.6, 0.75, 0.9, or 1.2 W/kg to study the dose-response relationship between the rate of microwave energy absorption and cholinergic activity in the different areas of the brain. Decrease in choline uptake was observed in the striatum at a SAR of 0.75 W/kg and above, whereas for the frontal cortex and hippocampus, decreases in choline uptake were observed at a SAR of 0.45 W/kg and above. No significant effect was observed in the hypothalamus at the irradiation power densities studied. The probit analysis was used to determine the SAR50 in each brain area, i.e., the SAR at which 50% of maximum response was elicited. SAR50 values for the striatum, frontal cortex, and hippocampus were 0.65, 0.38, and 0.44 W/kg, respectively.
Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor Antagonists: Novel Therapeutics for Nicotine Dependence and Depression?

Nicotine dependence is the primary motivational factor perpetuating the tobacco smoking habit that is one of the leading preventable causes of morbidity throughout the world. This Neuroscience Perspectives article summarizes and discusses recent evidence demonstrating the critical role of glutamate transmission in nicotine dependence and emerging data suggesting that compounds acting as antagonists at metabotropic glutamate receptors may be useful therapeutics to assist people in achieving and maintaining abstinence from tobacco smoking. Metabotropic glutamate 5 receptor antagonists may be useful in decreasing the reinforcing effects of nicotine, reducing motivation for nicotine and preventing relapse during protracted abstinence, whereas metabotropic glutamate 2/3 receptor antagonists may alleviate the depression observed during the early nicotine withdrawal phase. Metabotropic glutamate 2/3 receptor antagonists may also be therapeutics for non-drug-induced depressions.
Normalization of prolonged IV conduction time in a patient with acute pulmonary embolism.

A patient is presented in whom an ECG pattern of left bundle branch block temporarily disappeared following an episode of acute pulmonary embolism. Clinical improvement was associated with a return of the ECG pattern to the pre-embolization configuration. It is postulated that the original left bundle branch block pattern was due to delayed conduction along the left bundle branch, which was “normalized” by the occurrence of delay in conduction along the right bundle secondary to pulmonary embolism. Recovery from pulmonary embolism resulted in reappearance of the left bundle branch block pattern.
Kinetics and mechanism of the trialkylboron‐catalyzed polymerization of methyl methacrylate in the presence of oxygen

The rate of the bulk polymerization of methyl methacrylate catalyzed by triethylboron-oxygen was investigated. The rate was studied as a function of initial triethylboron and oxygen concentrations as well as temperature. The effect of hydroquinone was determined. The polymerization rate was also investigated using several other trialkylboranes. The initial rate of the triethylboron-catalyzed polymerization was found to depend on the square root of the oxygen concentration and on the square root of the difference between the triethylboron and oxygen concentrations. The rates at higher conversions were consistent with an initiation mechanism requiring consideration of reactions at all three boron–carbon bonds. An initiation mechanism involving oxidation to peroxide followed by a reduction utilizing unoxidized boron–carbon bonds is advanced. Ethyl radical, produced in this reduction, is the initiating species. The overall activation energy taken from initial rates was 2.4 ± 0.3 kcal./mole in the range 0–45°C. A very slow polymerization with triethylboron was observed in the absence of oxygen. Hydroquinone behaved as a typical inhibitor for the aerobic polymerization but did not inhibit the polymerization in the absence of oxygen.
Continuous-wave optical stimulation of the rat prostate nerves using an all-single-mode 1455 nm diode laser and fiber system

Optical nerve stimulation (ONS) has recently been reported as a potential alternative to electrical nerve stimulation. Continuous-wave (CW) laser stimulation of the prostate cavernous nerves (CN) in a rat model, in vivo, has also been demonstrated in our previous studies. The objective of this study is to present a new all-single-mode-fiber configuration for ONS with the laser operating in CW mode for potential diagnostic applications. An infrared pigtailed single-mode diode laser (λ = 1455 nm) was used in this study for noncontact ONS. This new all-fiber approach introduces several advantages including: (1) a less expensive and more compact ONS system, (2) elimination of alignment of optical components, and (3) an improved spatial beam profile. Successful optical stimulation of the rat CN using this new design was observed after the CN reached a threshold temperature of ~ 41 °C with response times as short as 3 s. Upon further study, this configuration may be useful for identification and preservation of the cavernous nerves during prostate cancer surgery.
Genetics and plant populations

Demography and Evolution in Plant Populations. Edited by Otto T. Solbrig Pp.222. Published by (Blackwell Scientific/University of California Press: 1980.) £15, $29.50.
The fate of inflorescence meristems is controlled by developing fruits in Arabidopsis.

The three-dimensional structure of pectate lyase E (PelE) has been determined by crystallographic techniques at a resolution of 2.2 A. The model includes all 355 amino acids but no solvent, and refines to a crystallographic refinement factor of 20.6%. The polypeptide backbone folds into a large right-handed cylinder, termed a parallel [beta] helix. Loops of various sizes and conformations protrude from the central helix and probably confer function. A putative Ca2+-binding site as well as two cationic sites have been deduced from the location of heavy atom derivatives. Comparison of the PelE and recently determined pectate lyase C (PelC) structures has led to identification of a putative polygalacturonate-binding region in PelE. Structural differences relevant to differences in the enzymatic mechanism and maceration properties of PelE and PelC have been identified. The comparative analysis also reveals a large degree of structural conservation of surface loops in one region as well as an apparent aromatic specificity pocket in the amino-terminal branch. Also discussed is the sequence and possible functional relationship of the pectate lyases with pollen and style plant proteins.
Nonlinear coupling of lower hybrid waves to the kinetic low‐frequency plasma response in the auroral ionosphere

A hybrid kinetic-fluid model is developed which is relevant to lower hybrid spikelets observed in the topside auroral ionosphere [Vago et al., 1992; Eriksson et al., 1994]. In contrast to previous fluid models [Shapiro et al., 1995; Tam and Chang, 1995; Seyler, 1994; Shapiro et al., 1993] our linear low frequency plasma response is magnetized and kinetic. Fluid theory is used to incorporate the nonlinear wave coupling. Performing a linear stability analysis, we calculate the growth rate for the modulational instability, driven by a lower hybrid wave pump. We find that both the magnetic and kinetic effects inhibit the modulational instability.
Rate and affinity binding constants determined by SPR spectroscopy reveal differential antigenicity of HIV gp120 and gp140

Background The development of a practical, effective AIDS vaccine that can produce enduring broadly protective immunity to natural exposure by diverse strains of HIV-1 remains the ultimate goal for controlling the ongoing AIDS epidemic. The success of an effective AIDS vaccine will likely depend on designing immunogens that elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies to circulating HIV-1 strains, and it is important to thoroughly understand the mechanism of binding of HIV antigens and neutralizing antibodies. The current study was designed to determine differences in the specificity and quantitative properties of antibody binding to gp120 or gp140 envelope proteins derived from natural HIV isolates. Methods We previously described novel assays of Env-specific serum antibodies elicited by animal lentiviral and HIV infections and immunizations that measure qualitative properties of avidity and conformational dependence in an ELISA format. However, recent data have emphasized limitations of this format. To provide a more sensitive, specific, and reproducible format for our antibody assays, we have recently developed novel procedures using SPR spectroscopy as measured in the Biacore system to characterize real time reaction kinetics (association/dissociation rates). Results The assays conducted under physiological conditions (37°C, nondenaturing conditions, etc.) clearly indicate the potential of these kinetic measurements of antigenantibody binding to provide novel data not achieved with standard assays. We have used these binding assays and a panel of well-characterized monoclonal antibodies both to linear and conformational binding domains to characterize differences in reactivity between variant gp120 and gp140 antigens as determined by kinetic rates and affinity of antibody binding. We have identified significant distinguishing differences in several binding characteristics of monoclonal antibody binding to gp120 vs gp140 antigens. Conclusion These kinetic parameters offer novel insights into the fundamental interactions of reference monoclonal antibodies and variant Env proteins and have the potential to provide novel correlates of neutralization in vitro and protection in vivo.
A Semi-Empirical Model for Computing Land Surface Emissivity in the Microwave Region

In an effort to better simulate land surface microwave emissivity, a semi-empirical technique is developed and tested over the U.S. Southern Great Plains (SGP) area. A physical model is used to calculate emissivity at the 10-GHz frequency, combining contributions from the underlying soil and vegetation layers, including the dielectric and roughness effects of each medium. Adjustments are added for post-precipitation surface water effects on emissivity of the soil and water-coated vegetation emissivity. A five-year data set of retrieved emissivities from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer-Earth Observing System (AMSR-E) during clear-sky conditions is employed for calculation of a robust set of channel covariances. These covariances, combined with the modeled 10-GHz emissivities, provide emissivity values for each AMSR-E channel, which are then used to compute top of the atmosphere brightness temperatures Tbs. Results comparing these calculated Tbs to observed AMSR-E values show correlations of 0.85-0.93 and biases generally less than 1 K, with the largest bias appearing in the highest AMSR-E frequency. Such a modeling system could be easily implemented for the emissivity calculation required for atmospheric retrievals over similar land surfaces.
Disseminated varicella zoster virus encephalitis.

A 33-year-old homeless woman presented to the emergency room in September, 2012, with 2 days of dry cough, dyspnoea, and fever, and 1 week of pruritic rash. On examination she had a temperature of 41·0°C, blood pressure of 98/65 mm Hg, heart rate of 85 bpm, respiratory rate of 16 bpm, and O2 saturation of 47% on room air. She had a diff use papular rash with vesicles of diff erent ages with haemorrhagic crust aff ecting the trunk, extremities, face, and scalp, but sparing the palms and soles (fi gure). She had normal mental status, cranial nerves, motor, and sensory examination. Chest radiograph showed diff use bilateral airspace opacities. Within a few hours of presentation she suddenly became confused, with fl accid paralysis necessitating intubation and admission to the medical intensive care unit. Electroencephalogram showed non-convulsive status epilepticus. MRI brain showed multiple foci of punctate microhaemorrhages throughout the corpus callosum, both temporal lobes, and left posterior cingulate gyrus, consistent with infectious haemorrhagic encephalitis (fi gure). HIV testing was positive, with CD4 count 4 cells/μL (normal 348–1456 cells/μL), and viral load was 66 000 copies/mL (normal < 50 copies/mL). A skin biopsy sample stained positive for varicella zoster virus (VZV), but negative for herpes simplex virus (HSV). Zoster-associated encephalitis from disseminated VZV can develop within days of the disseminated rash, and should be strongly suspected in immunosuppressed patients. Characteristic signs of zoster-associated encephalitis include acute delirium, typical signs of stroke such as headache with acute hemiplegia, aphasia, ataxia, hemisensory loss, or visual changes, dependent on the predominant location of the VZV vasculitis. Intravenous aciclovir 10 mg/kg every 8 h for 7–10 days should be started early if there is clinical suspicion of encephalitis. Our patient was given intravenous aciclovir and multiple antiepileptic drugs to control her seizures. We treated her for VZV pneumonia, aspergillus pneumonia, propofolinduced pancreatitis, Escherichia coli urinary tract infection, and critical illness myopathy. After stabilisation in hospital she was started on antiretrovirals and pneumocystis pneumonia prophylaxis. After 2 months of rehabilitation she could walk independently and communicate without diffi culty. At last follow-up in March, 2014, she had made a near full recovery in terms of her cognitive and motor function. Lancet 2014; 384: 1698
Surgical treatment and outcomes of patients with primary inferior vena cava leiomyosarcoma

Abstract Background The inferior vena cava (IVC) is a rare site for primary soft tissue sarcoma. There are limited data in the literature regarding surgical management of the IVC and longterm survival of these patients. Study design From 1982 to 2002, a total of 25 patients with primary IVC leiomyosarcoma was treated as inpatients and followed in a prospective database at Memorial Sloan-Kettering. Presenting symptoms, tumor characteristics, operative management, postoperative morbidity, and disease-specific survival were assessed for each patient. Results The 25 patients with primary IVC leiomyosarcoma accounted for 0.5% of all adult patients with soft tissue sarcoma treated during this time. The median patient age was 56 years (range 41 to 79 years). The three most common presenting symptoms were abdominal pain (52%), distention (20%), and deep venous thrombosis (12%). Of the patients, 21 (84%) underwent complete resection of the tumor. The IVC was managed in one of three ways: ligation (n = 11), primary/patch repair (n = 8), and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene tube grafting (n = 2). Among patients undergoing IVC ligation and primary/patch repair (n = 19), 11% had severe postoperative edema and none had worsening renal function. Local recurrence occurred in 33% of patients and distant recurrence occurred in 48% of patients. Patients undergoing complete resection had 3-year and 5-year disease-specific survival rates of 76% and 33%, respectively. There were no 3-year survivors among patients with incomplete resections. Conclusions Complete resection of primary IVC leiomyosarcomas is feasible and associated with improved survival. The IVC can be managed by primary repair or ligation with a low risk of severe postoperative edema.
TNF-α decreases ABCA1 expression and attenuates HDL cholesterol efflux in the human intestinal cell line Caco-2

HDL cholesterol levels are decreased in Crohn's disease, a tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)–driven chronic inflammatory condition involving the gastrointestinal tract. ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), one of several liver X receptor (LXR) target genes, is a cell surface transporter that mediates the rate-controlling step in HDL synthesis. The regulation of ABCA1 and HDL cholesterol efflux by TNF-α was investigated in the human intestinal cell line Caco-2. In response to cholesterol micelles or T0901317, an LXR nonsterol agonist, TNF-α decreased the basolateral efflux of cholesterol to apolipoprotein A1 (apoA1). TNF-α, by attenuating ABCA1 promoter activity, markedly decreased ABCA1 gene expression without attenuating the expression of LXR-α, LXR-β, and most other LXR target genes, such as ABCG1, FAS, ABCG8, scavenger receptor-B1 (SR-B1), and apoC1. TNF-α also decreased ABCA1 mass by markedly enhancing the rate of ABCA1 degradation and modestly inhibiting its rate of synthesis. Inhibitors of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway, which is activated by TNF-α, partially reverse the effect of TNF-α on ABCA1 protein expression. The results suggest that TNF-α, the major cytokine implicated in the inflammation of Crohn's disease, decreases HDL cholesterol levels by attenuating the expression of intestinal ABCA1 and cholesterol efflux to apoA1.
A note on a random walk model for texture analysis

Abstract Wechsler and Citron recently published a random walk model with applications in texture analysis. It is shown in the current note that their chi-square test of homogeneity based on this model is misleading.
The Depth and Dynamics of Context: Tracing the Sources and Channels of Engagement and Disengagement in Students' Response to Literature

In this article, we analyze one coauthor's 12th-grade English class, focusing on a small group of students who interpreted the character of Gertrude in Hamlet through a body biography, a life-sized human outline that students filled with words and images that represented their understanding of the character. We analyze the body biography production as a function of the social context of activity and then analyze the processes of composition involved in their production. Analysis of the data reveals that (a) the students exhibited different degrees of commitment to and involvement in the group task, (b) the degree of equity in productivity and social relations varied within the group in accordance with these different degrees of engagement, and (c) the inequity in social relations and contributions to the group product belied the degree to which the final interpretive product met the teacher's assessment criteria. We conclude with a reconsideration of the notion of engagement that includes attention to bot...
Distribution of lanthanide and actinide elements between liquid bismuth and molten LiClLiF and LiBrLiF solutions

Abstract The equilibrium distribution of several lanthanide and actinide elements between liquid bismuth solutions and molten LiCl LiF and LiBr LiF salt solutions was determined at 600 to 700°C with salt solutions in which the LiF concentration was varied from 0 to about 25 mole %. At a given temperature, the distribution coefficients ( D M ), which are defined as the concentration of M in the bismuth phase divided by the concentration of M in the salt phase, for each solute obeyed the relationship D M = (N Li n )(K M * ) with each salt solution used. In this expression, which is valid for a specific salt composition, N Li is the mole fraction of lithium in the bismuth phase, n is the oxidation number of M n+ in the salt phase, and K M * is a constant. At a given temperature, the variation of K M * with the LiF concentration in the salt phase could be expressed as log K M * =logK 0,M * −log [(1−N LiF) n + μ M N LiF nn ] . In this expression, log K o,M * is the value of log K M * obtained with pure LiCl or LiBr as the salt phase and β M is a constant.