cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
GENERAL SCALAR EXCHANGE IN ADSD+1

Abstract The scalar field exchange diagram for the correlation function of four scalar operators is evaluated in anti-de Sitter space, AdSd+1. The conformal dimensions δi, i = 1, … , 4 of the scalar operators and the dimension Δ of the exchanged field are arbitrary, constrained only to obey the unitarity bound. Techniques similar to those developed earlier for gauge boson exchange are used, but results are generally more complicated. However, for integer Δi, Δ the amplitude can be presented as a multiple derivative of a simple universal function. Results simplify if further conditions hold, such as the inequalities, Δ
Informed consent and the redefining of conception: A decision illconceived?

The purposes of this study are to assess the use of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' (ACOG) definitions of conception (a synonym for implantation) and the beginning of pregnancy (at implantation) in the clinical practice of its members and to explore the implications of differing definitions of conception and pregnancy onset for the process of informed consent. A survey was mailed to 112 members of the Louisville Ob/Gyn Society asking what definition of conception they used in their clinical practice and when they judged pregnancy began. A second mailing was sent to nonresponding members. Using logistic regression analysis, the responses to these questions were evaluated with respect to practice type, number of years in practice, and the ACOG membership. Responses were received from 86% (96 of 112) of the members. A total of 73% (70 of 96) (95% CI 69–77%) of the members indicated that conception was a synonym for fertilization, and 24% (23 of 96) (95% CI 21–28%) indicated that conc...
Noise-Direct: A Technique for Power Supply Noise Aware Floorplanning Using Microarchitecture Profiling

This paper proposes noise-direct, a design methodology for power integrity aware floorplanning, using microarchitectural feedback to guide module placement. Stringent power constraints have led microprocessor designers to incorporate aggressive power saving techniques such as clock-gating, that place a significant burden on the power delivery network. While the application of extensive clock-gating can effectively reduce power consumption, unfortunately, it can also induce large inductive noise (di/dt), resulting in signal integrity and reliability issues. To combat these problems, processors are usually designed for the worst-case current consumption scenario using adequate supply voltage and decoupling capacitances. To tackle high-frequency inductive noise and potential IR drops, we propose a novel design methodology that integrates microarchitectural profiling feedback into the floorplanning process. We present two microarchitectural metrics to quantify the noise susceptibility of a module:self weighting and correlation weighting. By using these metrics in a force-directed floorplanning algorithm to assign power pin affinity to modules, we can quickly converge to a design for average-case current consumption. By designing for the average-case and employing dynamic di/dt control for the worst-case, we can ensure that a chip is noise-tolerant without exceeding decap budget constraints. Our observations showed that certain functional modules in a processor exhibit consistent and highly correlated switching activity, that can be used to guide module placement distance from power pins. The experimental results demonstrate that the force-directed floorplanning technique can effectively suppress supply noise experienced by modules, reduce the total number of supply-noise margin violations, and achieve a floor-plan with considerably lower IR drop, as compared to a wire-length driven floorplan.
Intraretinal silicone oil vacuoles after macular hole surgery with internal limiting membrane peeling

Abstract Purpose To report the detection of intraretinal silicone oil vacuoles after the use of a silicone oil tamponade for macular hole surgery with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. Design Observational case report. Methods A 57-year-old woman with a recurrent macular hole in the left eye underwent macular hole surgery with ILM peeling and silicone oil tamponade. After early silicone oil emulsification was detected, the silicone oil was removed. Results Follow-up ophthalmoscopic examination and optical coherence tomography imaging revealed intraretinal silicone oil vacuoles in the area of ILM peeling. Conclusions Internal limiting membrane defects may facilitate the entry of silicone oil into the retina, leading to accumulation of oil vacuoles. The use of silicone oil in macular hole surgery with ILM peeling may complicate the postoperative outcome.
Instrumental and hostile aggression in childhood disruptive behavior disorders.

An analogue task of instrumental and hostile aggression during a competitive game was evaluated in a sample of clinically-referred 8-to 12-year-old aggressive boys. Similar to a prior task in a normative sample (Having, Wallace, & La Forme, 1979), both types of aggression increased during provocation as compared to baseline, indicating the success of the provocation manipulation, with moderate correlations between the two aggressive responses. The aggressive group with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the aggressive group without ADHD each had higher rates of instrumental aggression than controls. Only the aggressive/ADHD group had higher rates of hostile aggression than controls. Parent Child Behavior Checklist ratings indicated a modest but significant unique relationship between instrumental aggression and delinquency. The high rate of both types of aggression in the aggressive/ADHD group suggests that comorbid ADHD and aggression may result in qualitative differences in aggressive behavior. The high rate of hostile aggression in the aggressive-ADHD group supports theoretical assumptions regarding the relationship of hostile aggression to poor impulse control.
MIGRATORY CELL LOCOMOTION VERSUS NERVE AXON ELONGATION : Differences Based on the Effects of Lanthanum Ion

The effects of lanthanum ions (La+++) on the locomotion and adhesion of g lial cells and elongating nerve axons are reported. La+++ increases adhesion of both glia and of nerve growth cones to a plastic substratum. La+++ also markedly reduces glia locomotion, but it does not inhibit nerve elongation. Electron-opaque deposits are seen on the cell surface and within cytoplasmic vesicles of glia and nerves cultured in a La+++-containing medium. Possible modes of action for La+++ are discussed, particularly the possibilities that Ca++ fluxes or Ca++ involvement in adhesion are altered by La+++. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that cell migration and nerve axon elongation differ in mechanism, with respect to both adhesive interactions and the activity of microfilament systems.
How far can electrons be transferred

Abstract The intramolecular electron transfer between two naphthyl moieties (N) of trans -1,4-bis-(α-naphthyl-methyl)-cyclohexane in HMPA was studied over a range of temperatures . Although the inspection of the model indicates a separation by 9 A between the naphthyl groups the frequency of transfer is 0.9 × 10 7 s −1 at 15°C.
Use of spironolactone in heart failure patients receiving angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and beta-blockers

We read with great interest the report by Bozkurt et al. [(1)][1]which raises important issues related to translation of research findings into clinical practice. This is especially important for the use of spironolactone for patients with heart failure and left ventricular systolic dysfunction who
Finding road seeds in aerial images

Abstract We describe RoadF, a road finding system designed to drive road tracking programs either for automatic extraction of road networks or for testing and performance evaluation. RoadF utilizes clues in the form of antiparallel edge pairs, and, by using a special algorithm to analyze noisy road center sequences, spans gaps in these clues to construct road hypotheses even when edge continuity is imperfect. As a result long road hypotheses are generated, and the longer a road hypothesis is, the more confidence there is in its being correct. In linking hypothesized road centers, RoadF ignores geometric constraints, leading to obvious mistakes that are later corrected by a smoothness checking phase of the road finding program. Further improvement of results is achieved by linking road hypotheses that are consistent in a geometric sense. The main contribution of this research is the treatment of imperfect continuity. Whereas previous research has centered mainly on improved detection of local road properties, successful detection of imperfect continuity makes utilization of length more effective in pruning away false detections. The technique we presented can be used in conjunction with any of the local road property tests employed in previous work, and it can be expected that it would improve the capability to distinguish between real roads and false alarms.
Photographing The Planets From Orbiting Satellites

Photographic image acquisition from planet orbiters, examining systems performance and lens selection
In situ TEM imaging of CaCO3 nucleation reveals coexistence of direct and indirect pathways

Mechanisms of nucleation from electrolyte solutions have been debated for more than a century. Recent discoveries of amorphous precursors and evidence for cluster aggregation and liquid-liquid separation contradict common assumptions of classical nucleation theory. Using in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to explore calcium carbonate (CaCO3) nucleation in a cell that enables reagent mixing, we demonstrate that multiple nucleation pathways are simultaneously operative, including formation both directly from solution and indirectly through transformation of amorphous and crystalline precursors. However, an amorphous-to-calcite transformation is not observed. The behavior of amorphous calcium carbonate upon dissolution suggests that it encompasses a spectrum of structures, including liquids and solids. These observations of competing direct and indirect pathways are consistent with classical predictions, whereas the behavior of amorphous particles hints at an underlying commonality among recently proposed precursor-based mechanisms.
Mass Spectrometric Characterization of the Glycosylation Pattern of HIV-gp120 Expressed in CHO Cells

An analytical approach is reported for the characterization of the specific glycans found on highly glycosylated proteins based on a combination of specific proteolysis and deglycosylation combined with two different mass spectrometric approaches, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry, and nanoelectrospray mass spectrometry/tandem mass spectrometry using a hybrid quadrupole-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometer. The high resolution and mass accuracy of the mass spectrometric data obtained on the hybrid instrument combined with the high parent mass capabilities are shown to be extremely useful in the site-specific assignment of heterogeneous glycans. Using this methodology, 25 of 26 consensus glycosylation sites on HIV-1SF2 gp120, expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells, could be assigned. Good correlations between the relative abundances of members of heterogeneous series in the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectra and the nanoelectrospray mass spectra were o...
Effectiveness of endoscopy in patients admitted to the intensive care unit with upper GI hemorrhage

Abstract Background: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is generally indicated for the management of patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) with upper gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage but its impact in community practice has not been measured. Thus, the effectiveness of 3 EGD factors, viz., accurate initial diagnosis, performance within 24 hours of admission (early EGD), and appropriate intervention, was examined. Methods: Records of 214 patients admitted to the ICU of 10 metropolitan hospitals with upper GI hemorrhage were reviewed. Unadjusted and severity-adjusted associations of the 3 EGD factors with length of hospital stay, length of ICU stay, readmission to ICU, recurrent bleeding, surgery, and death were evaluated. Results: Inaccurate diagnosis occurred in 10% of patients at initial EGD and was associated with significant increases in risk of recurrent bleeding (70% vs. 11%, p p p p p Conclusions: Early, accurate EGD with appropriate therapeutic intervention is effective as practiced in the community and is associated with improved outcomes for patients with upper GI hemorrhage admitted to the ICU. Inaccurate diagnosis at initial EGD is uncommon but has a significant adverse association with all outcome measures. (Gastrointest Endosc 2001;53:6-13.)
Esophageal Tandem Stenting above the Lower Esophageal Sphincter

Abstract Fully covered esophageal metal stents can be used for the conservative management of esophageal leaks, perforations, and fistulas. However, the risk of stent migration is high. The authors present a case of tandem esophageal stenting above the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) by taking advantage of the natural anchorage offered by the LES, with additional radial expansile force provided by the inner stent holding the outer stent in place. Besides tandem stenting, endoclip application is another option to reduce the risk of stent migration. The authors advocate the choice between tandem stenting versus endoclip application depending on the underlying pathology and endoscopist's preference. After distal migration, esophageal stents usually stay within the stomach due to their long length and large stent flanges. However, there are rare reports of small bowel obstruction, ileus, or perforation from migrated esophageal stents, usually above the ileocecal valve or within the duodenum. Our case also stresses the importance of timely stent removal and patient follow-up. This article is part of an expert video encyclopedia.
Separation in a gas centrifuge at high feed flow rate

The separation of a binary gas mixture for high feed flow rates such that the E¼ vertical shear layer is nonlinear is considered. Numerical solutions for the velocity field and the temperature within the centrifuge are computed using the method originally described by Bennetts & Hocking (1973). These solutions are inputs to the separation problem which is characterized by a concentration boundary layer also of width of O(E¼). Results are presented for a wide range of parameters and the effect of thermal drive strength is examined in detail. Surprisingly the numerical results indicate that the analytical solution for the separation factor given by Conlisk, Foster & Walker (1983) may be used far outside its strict asymptotic region of validity.
Simulating a just-in-time production system

Abstract The Japanese Just-in-Time production system has drawn considerable attention from American managers as well as researchers. The researchers and the industrial executives are still in a quandary—how to implement the just-in-time pull system in the American industries while workers are here not as committed as the Japanese are to their industries. Many studies are being conducted to analyze and evaluate a pull system. The experimental configurations and setups are sometimes confusing and/or not well described to the readers. In this paper attempts are made to show how pull systems of different configurations can be simulated under different conditions. An example of a modeling application of a pull system using a SLAM network is shown. Simulation results are demonstrated to show the relative performance of push and pull systems. Computational problems and related findings are also reported.
School syndrome: Understanding the USA’s magical belief that schooling can somehow improve society, promote access, and preserve advantage

1 The US is suffering from a school syndrome, which arises from Americans’ insistence on having things both ways through the magical medium of education. Society wants schools to express the highest ideals as a society and the greatest aspirations as individuals, but only as long as they remain ineffective in actually realizing them, since one does not really want to acknowledge the way these two aims are at odds with each other. Schools are asked to promote equality while preserving privilege, so perpetuating a system that is too busy balancing opposites to promote student learning. The focus is on making the system inclusive at one level and exclusive at the next, in order to make sure that it meets demands for both access and advantage. As a result the system continues to lure one to pursue the dream of fixing society by reforming schools, while continually frustrating one’s ability to meet these goals. Also, a simple cure cannot be found for this syndrome because no remedy will be accepted that would ...
Evidence for X-Chromosomal Schizophrenia Associated with microRNA Alterations

Background Schizophrenia is a severe disabling brain disease affecting about 1% of the population. Individual microRNAs (miRNAs) affect moderate downregulation of gene expression. In addition, components required for miRNA processing and/or function have also been implicated in X-linked mental retardation, neurological and neoplastic diseases, pointing to the wide ranging involvement of miRNAs in disease.
Effect of differentiation on levels of insulin-like growth factor binding protein mRNAs in cultured porcine embryonic myogenic cells.

Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) have been shown to affect proliferation of several cell types via insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-dependent and IGF-independent mechanisms. The goal of this study was to determine if levels of IGFBP-2, -3, -4 and -5 mRNA changed during differentiation of cultured porcine embryonic myogenic cells. Total RNA was isolated from muscle cultures at various stages of differentiation and Northern blots of this RNA were probed with 32P-labeled cDNA probes specific for individual IGFBPs. Fusion, myogenin mRNA, and creatine phosphokinase activity were used as markers of differentiation. The level of IGFBP-3 mRNA in differentiating cultures (120 h in culture) was only one-third of the level in myogenin negative, nonfused cultures (72 h in culture) (P < 0.05, n = 4). In contrast, the level of IGFBP-3 mRNA in extensively fused cultures (144 h in culture) was increased by three-fold as compared to the level in myogenin negative, nonfused cultures (P < 0.05, n = 4) and approximately seven-fold as compared to the 120-h cultures (P < 0.05, n = 4). No significant change in the level of IGFBP-5 mRNA was observed during differentiation of myogenic cultures. IGFBP-2 mRNA levels were not significantly different at 72, 96 and 120 h, but at 144 h IGFBP-2 mRNA level was increased three-fold as compared to nonfused cultures (72 h) (P < 0.05, n = 4). IGFBP-4 mRNA was not detectable on Northern blots of total RNA from porcine myogenic cultures at any stage of differentiation. Changes in IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-2 mRNA levels are associated with differentiation of embryonic porcine myogenic cells in culture and this may indicate that these IGFBPs play a role in differentiation of these cells.
Additive-aggravated assays: An authoritative answer

Immunoassay interferences are diverse in scope (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8) and are the subject of several recent large-scale studies (9)(10), opinions, and editorials (6)(11). Most interferences originate from components of the sample (e.g., human antianimal antibodies, lipid, bilirubin, drug metabolites) that interact with assay reagents or the detection system. The latest interference to rear its ugly head has been an interference originating from an additive in a blood collection tube (12)(13)(14). In this issue of Clinical Chemistry , Remaley et al. (13) have extended their original work (12) on this problem and have now identified a common tube surfactant as the probable …
Understanding erectile dysfunction medication preference studies.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW The existence of three phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors has resulted in an increase in the marketing of the drugs. This has led to a shift in focus from scientifically rigorous endpoints such as efficacy and adverse event profiles to patient preference. RECENT FINDINGS Although no consensus currently exists as to the correct methodology for preference studies, some basic guidelines should be adhered to, including: (1) the double-blinding of drug administration; (2) non-biased drug administration instructions; (3) an adequately conducted crossover study; (4) comparison of equivalent doses; (5) standardized preference assessment; (6) declaration of patient demographics; and (7) rigorous statistical analysis. These factors are discussed in the light of the three published preference studies. SUMMARY In the final analysis, it is unclear to this author how preference studies impact upon clinician decision-making when confronted by a patient with erectile dysfunction.
The O(1D) + H2O reaction

Abstract The rate constant for the reaction of O( 1 D) with H 2 O vapor is found by measurement of th eintermediate quantum yield following flash photolysis to be 1.8 ± 0.8 × 10 10 1/mole sec. Under the conditions of the experiment OH relaxes to its ground vibrational state and does not siginificantly enhance the ozone quantum yield.
Effect of Vitamin a Deficiency on Efflux of Sodium Thiocyanate from Cerebrospinal Fluid

Summary Vitamin A deficient and normal Holstein calves were studied to provide information on the mechanism of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure increase occurring in vitamin A deficiency. Thiocyanate (SCN) was injected into the cisterna magna and the concentration of this marker remaining in the CSF was estimated at 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240, and 300min post-injection. Comparison of the SCN concentrations during the first 90min showed similar values. Samples taken thereafter exhibited higher values in the deficient animals. Graphical interpretation of these data resulted in SCN disappearance rates of 3.02×10 −3 mg/ml/min for the deficient group and 5.44×10 −3 mg/ml/min for the control animals. This difference would indicate a lesser reabsorption of the CSF in the deficient calves and could also explain the higher CSF pressures in the deficient animals—225mm as compared to 96mm.
What makes a successful biocontrol agent? A meta-analysis of biological control agent performance

Abstract We qualitatively reviewed the biocontrol literature in two major journals, Biological Control and Environmental Entomology, over the past 10 years by scoring 878 studies into 11 biocontrol-oriented questions. Quantitative meta-analyses were then used on data from 145 studies to examine the effects of different types of biocontrol agents (parasitoids, predators, and pathogens) on several attributes of weed and pest populations. Results for our qualitative review showed that most biocontrol studies were focused on lepidopteran pests, and that parasitoids were the most common biocontrol agents used. Our quantitative review showed that, for weeds, biocontrol agents significantly reduced weed biomass (−82.0%), flower (−98.9%), and seed production (−89.4%). For pests, our quantitative review showed that biocontrol agents significantly reduced pest abundance by 130% compared to control groups, increased parasitism (+139.0%) and increased overall pest mortality (+159.0%) compared to targets not exposed to biocontrol agents. Effects on pest mortality tended to be stronger for parasitoids than predators, although reductions caused in pest abundance were much stronger when predators were used as biocontrol agents. Addition of two or more biocontrol agents increased mortality by 12.97% and decreased pest abundance by 27.17% compared to single releases. Separate sets of meta-analyses demonstrated that the negative impacts of biocontrol on non-target species were much smaller than those for target species, although adverse effects of biocontrol on non-target organisms are based on small sample sizes and should be interpreted with caution. Our results also showed that biocontrol efficacy tended to be higher when agents were generalists than when they were specialists. Large fail–safe numbers found for most of the estimated effects indicate the robustness of the results found for the efficacy of biological control programs.
The pricing of capital assets in a multiperiod world

Abstract This paper proposes a general framework for the pricing of capital assets in a multiperiod world. Under quite general conditions, the analysis shows that the equilibrium expected nominal return on any asset can always be expressed as the sum of the risk-free rate and various risk premiums. The first risk premium is identical to the usual risk premium in the Sharpe-Lintner-Mossin capital asset pricing model. The mathematical forms of all the remaining risk premiums are identical even though each individual risk premium may be present for a different reason.
Pathologic response rates following definitive dose image-guided chemoradiotherapy and resection for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer

Abstract Introduction Treatment of technically operable, medically fit locoregionally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients is a controversial therapeutic challenge. Our group routinely uses a trimodality approach. Recent advances in radiotherapy allow for improved tumor targeting and daily patient positioning. We hypothesized that these technologies would improve pathologic response rates. We analyzed consecutively treated stage IIIA/IIIB NSCLC patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy before major lung resection, with particular attention paid to the impact of advanced technologies. Methods Locoregionally advanced NSCLC patients (N2) staged in a multidisciplinary forum with mediastinoscopy were planned to receive platinum-based chemotherapy and 60 Gy and major lung resection. Four-dimensional CT (4DCT) and image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) were used as available. Survival endpoints were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using the log-rank test. Multivariate analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards models. Results We identified 53 patients from 2/1999 to 2/2010. Median RT dose was 59 Gy. 68% underwent lobectomy. Forty-three patients were downstaged pathologically (81%), 38 experienced mediastinal sterilization (72%), and 21 (40%) had complete pathologic response (pCR). 1 and 2 year OS were 85.5% and 61.6%. Superior OS and DFS were associated with nodal downstaging and mediastinal sterilization (pN0). Treatment with IGRT/4DCT in 10 patients resulted in high rates of nodal downstaging (100% vs 77%, p = 0.0452), mediastinal sterilization (90% vs 67%, p = 0.0769), and pCR (60% vs 35%, p = 0.0728). Conclusions In selected patients, definitive dose CRT followed by major lung resection results in promising DFS and OS. The use of advanced radiotherapy techniques (4DCT and IGRT) appears to result in promising pathologic response rates.
High-performance Y0.9In0.1BaCo3(Zn,Fe)O7 + δ swedenborgite-type oxide cathodes for reduced temperature solid oxide fuel cells

Abstract With the goal of improving the electrochemical performance while maintaining good phase stability, the Fe-substituted swedenborgite-type Y0.9In0.1BaCo3Zn1 − xFexO7 + δ series of oxides have been investigated as cathode materials for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). All the samples with 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.8 were obtained as single-phase oxides with the P31c space group. Both the x = 0 and 0.2 samples were stable after 120 h exposure to 600, 700, and 800 °C, while the x = 0.6 and 0.8 samples showed instability at 700 and 800 °C. The x = 0.4 sample was stable at 600 and 800 °C, but generated a BaCoO3 impurity phase at 700 °C. The reversible oxygen absorption tendency of these materials was found to increase with increasing Fe content. Increasing the Fe content in the range of 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.4 was found to reduce the polarization resistance in the Y0.9In0.1BaCo3Zn1 − xFexO7 + δ + Gd0.2Ce0.8O1.9 composite cathodes, and the x = 0.4 sample was found to have performance superior to that of the well-studied Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3 − δ (BSCF) cathode in the range of 400–700 °C, making it an attractive cathode candidate for intermediate temperature SOFCs.
Laser spectroscopy of light Yb isotopes on-line in a cooled gas cell

A gas-filled, liquid-nitrogen-cooled cell on-line with an accelerator permits fluorescence spectroscopy of atoms of heavy-ion reaction products generated at rates less than ${10}^{3}$ ${\mathrm{s}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$. This low required rate of production allows the optical spectroscopy of radioactive atoms to be extended further from stability. With the cell we have measured isotope shifts of $^{152,154,156,158,166}\mathrm{Yb}$, reaching N=82, four nuclides further than previously reached with other techniques. The change in rms charge radius near the shell closure is surprisingly large.
Landscapes of a New Land: Fiction by Latin American Women; Short Stories by Latin American Women: The Magic and the Real

Landscapes of a New Land: Fiction by Latin American Women. MARJORIE AGOSIN (editor). Buffalo: White Pine Press, 1989. 194 pp., biographies. $12.00 (paper). ISBN 0–934834–96–2. Short Stories by Latin American Women: The Magic and the Real. CELIA CORREAS de ZAPATA (editor). Houston: Arte Publico Press, 1990. 224 pp., biographies. $13.50 (paper). ISBN 1–55885–002–3.
Introduction: genetic biocontrol of invasive fish species

This special issue of Biological Invasions presents articles resulting from the International Symposium on Genetic Biocontrol of Invasive Fish that was convened June 21-24, 2010 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA (http://www.seagrant.umn.edu/ais/biocontrol). The symposium explored prospects and risks of genetic biocontrol—a new technological approach for controlling invasive finfish species that have established populations in natural ecosystems. The frustration by some fisheries managers regarding lack of well-targeted and effective tools to control invasive fish stimulated the organizing of this symposium (Kapuscinski and Patronski 2005). The motivations for and development of any technology are not divorced from influences of society and nature. Instead, technology is part of a coevolutionary process of change involving interactions and feedbacks among values, systems of knowledge, institutions, technology and the environment (Norgaard 1994:27). This context-dependence is rarely treated explicitly, credibly and genuinely in technology development and assessment. Such a crucial omission has contributed to undesired outcomes after deployment of new technologies: unintended consequences, social resistance, and, in some cases, failure to achieve stated goals (Norgaard 1994; NRC 1996; Gibbons 1999; Kapuscinski et al. 2003). The fact that genetic biocontrol technology is at an early stage of research and development offers a rare opportunity to take a wiser approach. We therefore designed this symposium to address genetic biocontrol technology per se and its crucial contextual factors. The symposium brought together scientific and policy researchers, fisheries managers, representatives of fishing groups, businesses and environmental groups, and government regulators to start building a comprehensive understanding of issues regarding development and use this technology. Specific objectives were to:
Four forward-looking guidance points.

Four key guidance points in the UNAIDS guidance document, Ethical Considerations in HIV Preventive Vaccine Research, are compared with analogous statements in three other recently issued documents dealing with international research. Those documents are: the Declaration of Helsinki, as revised in 2000; the report of the U.S. National Bioethics Advisory Commission, issued in 2001; and a current (2001) draft revision of the 1993 CIOMS International Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical Research Involving Human Subjects. The four guidance points compared with statements on similar issues in the other three documents are Guidance Point 2, which deals with making available a safe and effective vaccine after trials are completed; the second half of Guidance Point 4, which requires that the desired outcome should potentially benefit the population from which research participants are drawn; Guidance Point 11, which discusses what should be provided to a control group in a vaccine trial; and Guidance Point 16, which addresses the care and treatment to be provided for trial participants who become infected with HIV during the trial. The analysis and comparison concludes that the UNAIDS guidance points are at least as ethically sound as analogous points in these other documents, and for the most part are ethically superior in providing greater benefits to research participants and to others. Nevertheless, they are subject to the criticism that they are too ‘aspirational’ and not sufficiently ‘pragmatic’.
Political activists: French and Germans compared – Review of Oscar W. Gabriel, Silke I. Keil and Eric Kerrouche, Political Participation in France and Germany

Political Participation in France and Germany Colchester, UK: ECPR Presses, 2012 is the first volume of its kind. Its editors, Oscar W. Gabriel, Silke I. Keil and Eric Kerrouche, have put together an original and unusual work that compares political behavior in the two neighboring countries in a direct manner. While considering multiple forms of political activism, from conventional events to unconventional acts, the authors of the various chapters highlight the many similarities and few differences that these two countries reveal in the way in which citizens act politically. In the end, the overall conclusions side with a stronger evidence of healthy political participation on the part of French and Germans alike, despite their respective countries’ different political systems, but with a peculiar preference for unconventional, violence-prone protest activities in France, contrary to the corresponding German support for law-abiding acts. The volume’s findings seem to replicate a historical stereotype of the two countries, according to previous groundwork in comparative political behavior studies.
Studies on the Coulter counter Part I. Investigation into the effect of orifice geometry and flow direction on the measurement of particle volume

Abstract This paper is the first of three publications concerned with the broad investigation into the method of particle size analysis by the Coulter counter, which was initiated at IIT Research Institute in 1967. This paper first describes the objectives of the study as defined from the pre-1969 literature. It then describes the development of a flexible, low-noise Coulter system with minimal particle and electrical coincidence errors. Finally, experimental data are presented on some fundamental aspects of electrical resistance zone measurement methods. The results of this part of the investigation show that orifice geometry is a very important factor to consider in the design of the sensing zone of electrical resistance zone counters such as the Coulter counter. For the minimum pressure drop and minimum friction loss, a trumpet-shaped inlet to the orifice is theoretically the best design. The use of such an orifice in practice is shown to result in a lower background noise level, a greater resolution, and a wider range of application. The use of a flow-directional collar coupled with this orifice design is shown to give the maximum resolution and accuracy in measuring particle volume on our system. The protection of the flow-directional channel is this collar by a micromesh screen of aperture diameter equal to 40% of the orifice diameter prevents orifice blockage and minimizes sizing errors due to excessive particle/orifice area ratios. The use of such a combination is recommended in particle size analysis with electrical resistance zone counters.
Reconstruction errors in computer generated binary holograms: a comparative study

The image degradation encountered in reconstructing computer-generated binary holograms is compared for the Lohmann-Paris, Lee, and Burckhardt-type hologram plots. The results reported here assist one in properly choosing the hologram plotting parameters and predicting resulting image quality for each type of hologram plot. The analytic results are supported by simulation.
Deteriorated geometric structure and strength of the midfemur in men with complete spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in a dramatic loss of bone mineral and a marked increase in fracture incidence in the femur; however, its effect on the femur's geometric structure and strength is poorly studied. The primary purpose of the present study was to assess the geometric structure, composition, and strength of the midfemur in men with long-term (>2 years), complete SCI (C6-L1 level; n=7) relative to men without SCI (n=8). T1-weighted axial images of the thigh were collected on a GE 1.5-T magnetic resonance imager and geometric, structure, composition, and strength measurements of the midfemur and skeletal muscle volume of the midthigh were determined. Areal bone mineral density (aBMD), bone mineral content (BMC), and bone area of the midthird of the femur and arms were determined using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. There were no differences in age, height, weight, femur length, arm BMC, arm aBMD, or arm bone area between the SCI group and controls. While the volume of the midfemur was not different in the two groups, the medullary cavity had 53% more volume and was 21-25% wider in the SCI group (P 0.05). These findings suggest that after SCI, the midfemur erodes on the endosteal surface, resulting in a decreased resistance to bending and torsion. Although midthigh muscle volume appears to decline to a greater degree than midfemur cortical bone volume and BMC, their relationships remain strong.
Study of Design Factors Affecting Turn-on Time of Silicon Controlled Rectifiers (SCRS) in 90 and 65nm Bulk CMOS Technologies

We explore the effect of layout factors on the turn-on time of Silicon Controlled Rectifiers (SCRs) in 90nm and 65nm bulk CMOS technologies. Using a Very Fast Transmission Line Pulse (VFTLP) tester, we show that a SCR in 65nm bulk CMOS technology can achieve a turn-on time of 500ps with proper design. Using device simulations, we identify factors limiting SCR turn-on time and provide a basis for the presented experimental results.
The risks of long-term neuroleptic treatment of schizophrenia: especially depression and akinesia

Most extrapyramidal side effects of neuroleptics are easily recognized and cause little problem in diagnosis and treatment. The exceptions are those which mimic psychopathology: akathesia and akinesia. Akathesia resembles anxiety. Akinesia is similar to depression, residual schizophrenia, and demoralization. Differential diagnosis may require interruption of the neuroleptic. Whether neuroleptics can cause depression not associated with akinesia has never been established. The first obligation of the clinician is to be sure that the depressive symptoms are not concomitants of akinesia, before treating with antidepressants which may not be the appropriate treatment. There is no convincing evidence that one neuroleptic drug is more likely to cause akinesia than another, although this had not been studied extensively using a broad definition of akinesia.
Toward an Anthropological Theory of Value: The False Coin of Our Own Dreams.

Toward an Anthropological Theory of Value: The False Coin of Our Own Dreams. David Graeber. New York: Palgrave, 2001. vii. 337 pp., notes, references, index.
Evaluation of individuals deferred from blood donation for medical reasons.

Modern techniques of blood collection require health screening of donors by non-physicians using general guidelines. Health problems of concern to the donor and possible loss to future donation of actually healthy individuals are inherent in this acceptance and deferral process. Of the 108,908 donors presenting at the bloodmobiles of a regional blood center from September 1978 to February 1979, 9,542 were deferred. Of these, 1,203 with possible medical problems other than hepatitis, hypertension, or infectious disease were referred to their physician for further information concerning their suitability as donors. Over 80% had irregular pulses or histories suggestive of potential cardiovascular problems. The purpose of this study was to review the evaluation mechanism. Responses for evaluation were received from only 222 out of 1,203 (18%), and of these all but 29 (13%) were granted full permission to donate. Since only one evaluated individual with pulse or cardiovascular findings of possible significance was under the age of 35 years, this age is a reasonable cutoff for such deferrals. The minimum increase in collections with this change in deferral screening would be over 1,000 units per year in Connecticut, and perhaps 60,000 nationwide.
Efficient processing of integrity constraints in deductive databases

Abstract One major operation in a deductive database is to verify the contents of the database with integrity constraints whenever the database is changed. The number of facts and integrity constraints in a deductive database often makes the validation process the bottleneck of the system. In this paper, we describe a set of approaches to process integrity constraints efficiently on sequential computers and on massively parallel computers.
Departure from the conical dispersion in epitaxial graphene

Abstract The π bands of epitaxially grown graphene are studied by using high resolution angle resolved photoemission spectroscopy. Clear deviations from the conical dispersion expected for massless Dirac fermions and an anomalous increase of the scattering rate are observed in the vicinity of the Dirac point energy. Possible explanations for such anomalies are discussed in terms of many-body interactions and the opening of a gap. We present detailed experimental evidences in support of the gap scenario. This finding reveals a fundamental intrinsic property of epitaxial graphene and demonstrates the possibility of engineering the band gap in epitaxial graphene.
Thematic review series: Systems Biology Approaches to Metabolic and Cardiovascular Disorders. Approaches to lipid metabolism gene identification and characterization in the postgenomic era

The availability of genomic resources has already had a tremendous impact on biomedical research. In this review, we describe how whole genome sequence and high-throughput functional genomics projects have facilitated the identification and characterization of important genes in lipid metabolism and disease. We review key approaches and lipid genes identified in the first years of this century and discuss how genomic resources are likely to streamline gene identification and functional characterization in the future.
Restoring the social: offender reintegration in a risky world

How to manage and reintegrate offenders released from prison is a vexing problem for governments. The challenge of reintegration has forced a pendulum shift in corrections toward a more social-psyc...
The gravitational interaction: Spin, rotation, and quantum effects-a review

Previous work on spin, rotation, and quantum effects in gravitation is surveyed, with particular emphasis on the gravitational two-body interaction, both for elementary particles and for macroscopic bodies. Applications considered include (a) the precession of a gyroscope, (b) rotational effects on the equations of motion for the orbit, (c) binary systems, particularly the binary pulsar PSR 1913+16, and (d) the prospects of measuring spin-orbit and spin-spin forces in the laboratory. In addition, we discuss quantum effects that arise in the interaction between elementary particles. In particular, we point out the potentially decisive role of these forces in high-density matter, with emphasis on the fact that repulsive forces arise that may prevent gravitational collapse. All of the above considerations are within the framework of Einstein's theory of general relativity, albeit extended to treat spin-dependent and quantum forces. Finally, we consider the additional quantum terms that are present if one works with a generalization of Einstein's theory, the Einstein-Cartan-Sciama-Kibble theory of gravitation, in which the spin of matter, as well as its mass, plays a dynamical role.
Isolation and Analysis of Microtubules and Associated Proteins

Microtubules, microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs), and motor proteins are essential components of all eukaryotic cells. They are all involved in mitosis and in the movement of organelles, proteins, and vesicles in cells. MAPs act as structural elements of the microtubule component of the cytoskeleton, whereas molecular motors propel cargo along microtubule tracks or translocate microtubules in the cytoplasm. This introduction provides an overview of procedures developed by many labs to isolate microtubules from cell homogenates, purify tubulin, MAPs, and motor proteins from microtubules preparations, and analyze kinesin and cytoplasmic dynein activity by video-enhanced differential interference contrast microscopy and fluorescence microscopy. These ingenious microscope-based assays, which were developed to determine the motility characteristics of kinesin and dynein, reveal, in clear and dramatic fashion, the activity of these amazing nanomachines in real time.
Optimal concentrations of nitrate in cornstalks at maturity

The concentration of NO 3 #75 in the lower portion of cornstalks at physiological maturity has been proposed as the basis for evaluating the N status of corn (Zea Mays L.). Here we refine estimates of the optimal range in NO 3 #75 concentrations for this test by using relevant economic scenarios that include 900 plot-years of new data as well as 450 plot-years reported earlier. The results showed that rainfall had little effect on concentrations of NO 3 #75 identified as being optimal (...)
Fan and Plate Apparatus for Illustrating Stability Concepts Using XPC Rapid-Prototyping Environment

In this study, a fan and plate apparatus is used to demonstrate the aerodynamic resonance phenomena and stability concepts. A series of controllers such as P, PD and PID are used to illustrate the aerodynamic behavior of this system. This laboratory apparatus can be used in an undergraduate or graduate controls course to illustrate and reinforce stability and controller design concepts. The xPC Rapid Prototyping Toolbox of MATLAB® is used for a fast and flexible method to implement a variety of controllers using a high-level programming language such as Simulink® .Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Performance on the Cognitive Estimation Test in schizophrenia.

The Cognitive Estimation Test (CET) is generally considered to be a measure of executive function, but there is little information with respect to its clinical utility in patients with schizophrenia. In the present investigation, we evaluated the clinical utility of the CET in 42 patients with schizophrenia relative to 42 healthy comparison subjects matched for age, gender, and parental education. Construct validity of the CET was examined though correlation with other tests of executive and nonexecutive cognitive functions. Patients with schizophrenia performed more poorly on the CET compared with the healthy comparison group, which could not be accounted for by greater level of depression in the patient sample. In the schizophrenia group, CET was correlated with measures of executive function but also general intellectual functioning, verbal learning, and auditory attention. CET performance was not associated with depression or overall severity of psychopathology in the patient sample. These findings pr...