cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Just get out the door! Importance of walking outside the home for maintaining mobility: Findings from the Women's Health and Aging Study

Objectives: To determine the association between volitional walking behavior and change in walking ability and lower extremity function over 1 year in functionally limited older women. Design: Longitudinal cohort study. Setting: Data were collected in participant's homes in Baltimore, Maryland. Participants: One thousand two cognitively intact community-resident female Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older enrolled in the Women's Health and Aging Study. Measurements: Reported walking behavior and change in reported walking difficulty, usual and rapid gait speed, and lower extremity physical performance score over 1 year. Results: Of 800 functionally limited women who could walk unassisted at baseline and were alive and contacted 1 year later, 226 (28%) walked regularly, at least eight blocks per week. These women exhibited better health and functioning than nonwalkers (e.g., lower prevalence of depressive and fatigue symptoms and cardiovascular disease and higher mean ankle-arm index, forced expiratory volume in the first second, and gait speed). One year later, independent of initial functional status, social-psychological and behavioral factors, and health conditions, walkers were 1.8 times (95% confidence interval=1.2–2.7; P=.002) more likely to maintain reported walking ability and showed less decline in customary walking speed (0.009 m/s vs −0.070 m/s; P=.001) and functional performance score (−0.17 vs −0.73; P=.01) than women who walked less than eight blocks. Conclusion: The strength, consistency, and specificity of the association between walking behavior and maintenance of mobility provide strong evidence that even a small amount of regular walking can confer short-term protection from further mobility loss in functionally limited women. The observation that most women capable of walking at least eight blocks per week were not doing so indicates the need to get more women “out the door” and to encourage those who walk a little to walk a little more.
Analysis of the turbulent regime of the progress curve when new learning additions have variable slopes

Abstract : Learning curves have been used extensively for predictive purposes in the airframe and other industries. In many instances this has led to erroneous results because analysts failed to extend learning curve theory and develop adequate analytical techniques in the turbulent regime of the cost history characterizing these industries. It is this area where a series of design changes induces a series of perturbations whose turbulence intensity is a function of the frequency of occurrence and magnitudes of the design changes under consideration. In AD-676 409, a series of formulations amenable to machine programming was developed for the accurate determination of perturbed unit costs. This development was based on additions of new learning having a constant slope. In this discussion, the development of AD-676 409 will be generalized by developing formulas for the addition of new effort having variable slopes. Consideration will also be given to the expressions involving elementary unit cost expressions so that cumulative average and cumulative total values can readily be obtained from existing experience curve tables. Conversely, the problem of determining the magnitudes of design changes and the slopes of new effort from graphical data will also be considered.
Cardiac Computed Tomography

Computed tomography (CT) is one of the greatest innovations of the twentieth century, and it has revolutionized clinical practice. Sir Godfrey Hounsfield, an English engineer working for EMI, and Allan Cormack of Tufts University, Massachusetts, a South African-born physicist, developed the concept and the first computed axial tomographic (CAT) scanner in 1972. For the first time, a large volume of data could be collected in an orthogonal plane by using a thin X-ray beam to rotate around a region of interest. The earliest scanners took hours to acquire data and several days to reconstruct the final image for analysis. Subsequent advances such as “slip-ring” technology removed the need for a rigid mechanical linkage between the power cables and the X-ray tube. This enabled the X-ray tube to rotate indefinitely and resulted in spiral CT. CT imaging has become a cornerstone of clinical practice, and it is thought that over 62 million CT scans are performed each year in the USA
A Stochastic Structure Model for Liquid-Electrolyte Fuel Cell Electrodes, with Special Application to MCFCs II. Effect of Structure on Performance

A novel stochastic structure model has been developed for the purpose of investigating the dynamic molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) performance, in particular, the effect of constant change of electrolyte distribution with time. As a preliminary application and verification of this model, the steady-state relationship between electrolyte distribution and cell performance has been investigated using the agglomerate model of porous electrode performance based on the stochastic structure. To investigate the optimization of electrode structure for maximum performance, the effect of microstructure and physical properties on electrode performance is analyzed taking into account total polarization (cell voltage loss), using the dimensionless-number (K) approach. This makes it possible to explore the effect of electrode microstructure on fuel cell performance, and power density in particular.
Increased Frequency of Low-Magnitude Floods in New England1

Armstrong, William H., Mathias J. Collins, and Noah P. Snyder, 2012. Increased Frequency of Low-Magnitude Floods in New England. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 48(2): 306-320. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-1688.2011.00613.x Abstract: Recent studies document increasing precipitation and streamflow in the northeastern United States throughout the 20th and early 21st Centuries. Annual peak discharges have increased over this period on many New England rivers with dominantly natural streamflow – especially for smaller, more frequent floods. To better investigate high-frequency floods (<5-year recurrence interval), we analyze the partial duration flood series for 23 New England rivers selected for minimal human impact. The study rivers have continuous records through 2006 and an average period of record of 71 years. Twenty-two of the 23 rivers show increasing trends in peaks over threshold per water year (POT/WY) – a direct measure of flood frequency – using the Mann-Kendall trend test. Ten of these trends had p < 0.1. Seventeen rivers show positive trends in flood magnitude, six of which had p < 0.1. We also investigate a potential hydroclimatic shift in the region around 1970. Twenty-two of the 23 rivers show increased POT/WY in the post-1970 period when comparing pre- and post-1970 records using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. More than half of these increases have p < 0.1, indicating a shift in flow regime toward more frequent flooding. Region wide, we found a median increase of one flood per year for the post-1970 period. Because frequent floods are important channel-forming flows, these results have implications for channel and floodplain morphology, aquatic habitat, and restoration.
An architecture for EventWeb

While the volume and diversity of multimedia permeating the world around us increases, our chances of making sense of the available information do the opposite. This environment poses a number of challenges which include achieving scalability while accessing all the available media, live and archived, inferring its context, and delivering media to all interested parties with its context attached. We envision a solution to this set of challenges in a novel system architecture. As a starting point, however, we select a previously described framework, EventWeb, suitable for annotating raw multimedia data with context meaningful to end users. We then map it onto a distributed architecture capable of correlating, analyzing, and transporting the volumes of data characteristic of the problem space. This paper first presents the requirements for our architecture, then discusses this architecture in detail, and outlines our current implementation efforts.
Macromolecular Crowding and Size Effects on Probe Microviscosity

Development of biologically relevant crowding solutions necessitates improved understanding of how the relative size and density of mobile obstacles affect probe diffusion. Both the crowding density and relative size of each co-solute in a mixture will contribute to the measured microviscosity as assessed by altered translational mobility. Using multiphoton fluorescent correlation spectroscopy, this study addresses how excluded volume of dextran polymers from 10 to 500 kDa affect microviscosity quantified by measurements of calmodulin labeled with green fluorescent protein as the diffusing probe. Autocorrelation functions were fit using both a multiple-component model with maximum entropy method (MEMFCS) and an anomalous model. Anomalous diffusion was not detected, but fits of the data with the multiple-component model revealed separable modes of diffusion. When the dominant mode of diffusion from the MEMFCS analysis was used, we observed that increased excluded volume slows probe mobility as a simple exponential with crowder concentration. This behavior can be modeled with a single parameter, β, which depends on the dextran size composition. Two additional modes of diffusion were observed using MEMFCS and were interpreted as unique microviscosities. The fast mode corresponded to unhindered free diffusion as in buffer, whereas the slower agreed well with the bulk viscosity. At 10% crowder concentration, one finds a microviscosity approximately three times that of water, which mimics that reported for intracellular viscosity.
Modulation of cell surface protein free thiols: a potential novel mechanism of action of the sesquiterpene lactone parthenolide.

BACKGROUND There has been much interest in targeting intracellular redox pathways as a therapeutic approach for cancer. Given recent data to suggest that the redox status of extracellular protein thiol groups (i.e. exofacial thiols) effects cell behavior, we hypothesized that redox active anti-cancer agents would modulate exofacial protein thiols. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS To test this hypothesis, we used the sesquiterpene lactone parthenolide, a known anti-cancer agent. Using flow cytometry, and western blotting to label free thiols with Alexa Fluor 633 C(5) maleimide dye and N-(biotinoyl)-N-(iodoacetyl) ethylendiamine (BIAM), respectively, we show that parthenolide decreases the level of free exofacial thiols on Granta mantle lymphoma cells. In addition, we used immuno-precipitation techniques to identify the central redox regulator thioredoxin, as one of the surface protein thiol targets modified by parthenolide. To examine the functional role of parthenolide induced surface protein thiol modification, we pretreated Granta cells with cell impermeable glutathione (GSH), prior to exposure to parthenolide, and showed that GSH pretreatment; (a) inhibited the interaction of parthenolide with exofacial thiols; (b) inhibited parthenolide mediated activation of JNK and inhibition of NFkappaB, two well established mechanisms of parthenolide activity and; (c) blocked the cytotoxic activity of parthenolide. That GSH had no effect on the parthenolide induced generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species supports the fact that GSH had no effect on intracellular redox. Together these data support the likelihood that GSH inhibits the effect of parthenolide on JNK, NFkappaB and cell death through its direct inhibition of parthenolide's modulation of exofacial thiols. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Based on these data, we postulate that one component of parthenolide's anti-lymphoma activity derives from its ability to modify the redox state of critical exofacial thiols. Further, we propose that cancer cell exofacial thiols may be important and novel targets for therapy.
Sociometric Characteristics of Kindergarten Children at Risk for School Failure.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine if children identified by teachers at different levels of risk for school failure were distinguished by their peers in terms of social status and behavioral descriptors. Two sociometric measures, nominations and ratings, were used to assess social status. Children's perceptions of their peers were also obtained for a set of behavioral descriptors. A total of 348 kindergarten children in one school for three successive years were included in the data analysis. Children were classified by teachers as at no risk, moderate risk, or high risk for retention. The results from multivariate analyses of variance showed a significant effect for risk groups for both sociometric measures and descriptors. Univariate test results showed the no-risk group was viewed more positively than the other two groups on the sociometric measures. The high-risk group was judged to be more disruptive and aggressive and to prefer to be alone more. Gender was a significant factor for the peer nomination data and behavioral characteristics but not for the class rating. The results are discussed in relation to early intervention with at-risk children.
Mechanical properties of Cu/Ag multilayered composites

Abstract Cu–Ag multilayered nanocomposites, as well as pure copper samples, were made by electrodeposition using a single-bath cyanide solution. Two groups of composites with different bi-layer thickness values (about 330 and 110 nm, respectively) were produced. The thickness of the silver layers (≈10 nm) was the same in all samples. Annealing was conducted to investigate the stability of microstructure at low temperatures. The results of this study showed that the as-deposited laminated composites have a much higher strength relative to the electrodeposited pure copper. However, the effect of the copper layer thickness on strength was not significant. Annealing at 150°C caused the specimens in both groups to lose their strength to the level of pure copper specimens. Based on the microstructural and mechanical properties analyses, it is suggested that the high strength of the electrodeposited Cu/Ag laminated composites arises from the refinement of grains in the copper layers, the resistance of the silver layers to plastic deformation and the existence of coherency stresses at the layer interfaces. Annealing at 150°C results in a loss of strength owing to the recovery of microstructure, copper grain growth and consequent relaxation of interfacial stresses.
Therapy of hepatitis C: Cost‐effectiveness analysis

The natural history of untreated chronic hepatitis C is controversial, and direct knowledge of the long-term clinical and economic outcomes of current alpha interferon treatment regimens remains limited. Decision analytic models using available information on outcome probabilities and associated health care costs in the United States have been developed but are available only in abstract form. They suggest that chronic hepatitis C is a life-shortening disease and that alpha interferon treatment, for 6 or 12 months, despite its up-front costs and failure to induce a prolonged therapeutic response in most patients, increases life expectancy (which nevertheless is still reduced). It does so with a marginal cost-effectiveness well within the acceptable range of medical interventions in the United States. Even empiric therapy, without regard to viral level, genotype, and baseline histology, is within an acceptable cost-effectiveness range. Improving the response rate is likely to make treatment even more cost-effective and possibly cost-saving. Discounting at 3% would also lower the marginal cost-effectiveness; treatment of younger patients would likely lead to cost-savings. Future needs include the development of better databases and cost data for estimating outcomes.
Urban Acquaintance Fields: An Evaluation of a Spatial Model

The present paper is concerned with examination of the spatial characteristics of empirical data relating to contact fields for a sample of residents in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It is shown that a model of individual urban contact fields described in an earlier paper (Moore, 1970) provides interesting insights into the spatial characteristics of the empirical contact fields. The model is briefly presented, its aggregate form is derived, and the data are then examined with reference to the aggregate-level model.Analysis of person-to-person contacts may be regarded as the first step towards identification of spatial regularities in information flows(1). Most studies of contact fields have been quite restrictive in their spatial representation, having adopted distance-decay functions as the prime means of description (Hagerstrand, 1957; Marble and Nystuen, 1963; Morrill and Pitts, 1967; Marble and Bowlby, 1968). If the distribution of opportunities for contact is neither uniform nor possesses a symmetrical declin...
Spinal subdural hematoma in a leukemic child.

Summary A 15-year-old girl with acute lymphoblasticleukemia developed signs and symptoms of cord compression following a lumbar puncture. At autopsy a large subdural hematoma was found compressing the cauda equina and extending upward around the lumbar cord. The cause of subdural hematoma of thecord are briefly discussed. The need to be aware of this potential problem and its presenting neurologic signs and symptoms is emphasized.
Semi-solid materials for controlled release drug formulation: Current status and future prospects

Semi-solid materials represent an important category of inactive ingredients (excipients) of pharmaceutical products. Here we review several common semisolid polymers currently used in the controlled release formulations of many drugs. These polymers are selected based on their importance and broad scope of application in FDA-approved drug products and include several polysaccharides (cellulose, starch, chitosan, alginate) and carbomers, a group of mucoadhesive synthetic polymers. Glyceride-based polymers used in self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) will also be discussed for its importance in formulating poorly water-soluble drugs. Unique features and advantages of each type of semi-solid materials are discussed and examples of their use in oral delivery of drugs are provided. Finally, future prospects of developing new and better semi-solid excipients are discussed with the objective of facilitating clinical translation.
Expanding the Nucleotide and Sugar 1-Phosphate Promiscuity of Nucleotidyltransferase RmlA via Directed Evolution

Directed evolution is a valuable technique to improve enzyme activity in the absence of a priori structural knowledge, which can be typically enhanced via structure-guided strategies. In this study, a combination of both whole-gene error-prone polymerase chain reaction and site-saturation mutagenesis enabled the rapid identification of mutations that improved RmlA activity toward non-native substrates. These mutations have been shown to improve activities over 10-fold for several targeted substrates, including non-native pyrimidine- and purine-based NTPs as well as non-native d- and l-sugars (both α- and β-isomers). This study highlights the first broadly applicable high throughput sugar-1-phosphate nucleotidyltransferase screen and the first proof of concept for the directed evolution of this enzyme class toward the identification of uniquely permissive RmlA variants.
Transposon-generated ‘knock-out’ and ‘knock-in’ gene-targeting constructs for use in mice

Abstract The conventional technique for targeted mutation of mouse genes entails placing a genomic DNA fragment containing the gene of interest into a vector for fine mapping, followed by cloning of two genomic arms around a selectable neomycin-resistance cassette in a vector containing thymidine kinase [1]; this generally requires 1–2 months of work for each construct. The single ‘knock-out' construct is then transfected into mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells, which are subsequently subjected to positive selection (using G418 to select for neomycin-resistance) and negative selection (using FIAU to exclude cells lacking thymidine kinase), allowing the selection of cells which have undergone homologous recombination with the knockout vector. This approach leads to inactivation of the gene of interest [2]. Recently, an in vitro reaction was developed, on the basis of the yeast Ty transposon, as a useful technique in shotgun sequencing [3]. An artificial transposable element, integrase enzyme and the target plasmid are incubated together to engender transposition. The DNA is then purified, and subsequently electroporated into bacteria. The transposon and the target plasmid bear distinct antibiotic resistance markers (trimethoprim and ampicillin, respectively), allowing double selection for transposition events. In the present study, we have modified this system to allow the rapid, simultaneous generation of a palette of potential gene targeting constructs. Our approach led from genomic clone to completed construct ready for transfection in a matter of days. The results presented here indicate that this technique should also be applicable to the generation of gene fusion constructs [4–8], simplifying this technically demanding method.
The social structure of social problems in New York state

A comparative study of the 52 upstate New York counties replicated a previous state level study that did a principal components analysis of social problems and attempted to predict them by aspects of social structure. In the New York counties the percent Democrat predicted various welfare measures. Population density predicted health and crime problems, and affluence. When population density was controlled, affluence related only to crimes of property. Contrasting with the state study, political competitiveness (per cent voting) was related to few variables.
Meaning-making, mattering, and thriving in community psychology: From co-optation to amelioration and transformation.

Community psychology is not a monolithic entity. While united by a set of values, theories, and principles, researchers and practitioners around the world engage in multifarious activities in the name of community psychology. Given that community needs vary greatly around the world, this is expected. United by the pursuit of meaning, mattering and thriving, community psychologists adopt diverse approaches in diverse contexts. In this paper I wish to capture the relationships among meaning-making, mattering and thriving, and to offer a continuum that goes from co-optation to transformation, with amelioration as its center point. As I do so, I will draw on the papers published in this special issue to illustrate the principles that unite us, the risks that beset us, and the promises that excite us.
Electrochromic Properties of Laminate Devices Fabricated from Polyaniline, Poly(ethylenedioxythiophene), and Poly(N-methylpyrrole)

Electrochromic devices composed of laminated polymer layers, as the working electrode, and vanadium pentoxide, as the counter electrode, were prepared and evaluated. Three different laminate systems were investigated using various combinations of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), poly(N-methylpyrrole), and polyaniline as the active electrochromes. The color change of the laminate devices was measured using spectrocolorimetric techniques and analyzed using Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage 1931 (x, y)-chromaticity coordinates. The device's observed colors in their fully doped and dedoped states are found to be linearly dependent on the color coordinates of the two individual polymers that comprise the laminate.
Vitreous and aqueous humors contain a latent proteinase activity that abolishes IGF binding to specific IGF binding proteins

Several distinct insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) are present in tissues and fluids of the developing and adult eye. However, the mechanism(s) involved in the regulation of ocular IGFBP levels is unknown. We have now identified an endogenous factor in vitreous and aqueous humors that, when activated by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), abolishes the capacity of specific low molecular weight IGFBPs (i.e. 24-30 kDa) to bind IGF as assessed by western ligand blotting. In contrast, IGF binding to the 46 and 32 kDa IGFBPs (IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-2 respectively) is not affected by the SDS-activated inhibitory factor (IF). Maximal activation of the IF occurs at an SDS concentration of approximately 0.015%. Incubations in the presence of the serine-proteinase inhibitor aprotinin result in marked inhibition of IF activity. Preliminary characterization by ultrafiltration suggests that the IF is large (< 100 kDa) and/or that it is present in a complex. The finding of a factor, most likely a serine protein...
Calmodulin‐like calcium‐binding protein identified in calcium‐rich mineral deposits from freshwater mussel gills

Extracellular calcium concretions found in the gills of freshwater unionids are largely inorganic, containing calcium and phosphate. The organic fraction of the isolated concretions accounts for 25% of their dry weight as determined by ashing. The organic fraction of isolated concretions was examined using SDS-polyacrylamide electrophoresis. The concretion fraction is separated into 13–14 protein bands. These bands can be further differentiated into EDTA soluble proteins and insoluble core proteins. One of the soluble proteins has a molecular weight of approximately 17,000 daltons (Da) and comigrates with authentic vertebrate calmodulin. The 17,000-Da concretion protein cross-reacts with sheep IgG prepared against bovine brain calmodulin as shown by immunoblot. Rabbits and mice, challenged with the entire concretion organic fraction, produce an IgG fraction which always recognizes an epitope of the 17,000-Da protein as the major antigenic determinant. This same protein is also a calcium binding protein as shown by 45Ca autoradiography even after heat and SDS/mercaptoethanol treatment. To determine that this protein was not bound to the concretions as an artifact of the isolation procedures, immunocytochemical procedures were used to localize the antigenicity to 17,000-Da and vertebrate calmodulin in situ. Immunocytochemical localization indicates the protein is present on the concretions in situ but documents that the majority of this protein is located in concretion-forming cells. Electron microscopic immunocytochemistry demonstrates that the protein is found largely in early concretion-forming cells in protein granules formed before concretion architecture is observed. This may imply that the protein is likely important in the initiation of concretion formation, and is only a residual protein as found on the extracellular concretions.
The Development of Rotors Having Separate Sample and Reagent Transfer Channels for Use with Centrifugal Fast Analyzers

Abstract Two new rotors have been designed and developed for use with Centrifugal Fast Analyzers. These rotors incorporate separate sample and reagent chambers and transfer channels, which prevent premature mixing of the aliquots of sample and reagent and also provide for their simultaneous and rapid transfer and mixing when the rotor is accelerated.
A zero-to-few-hundred eV proton beam for calibrations of neutron β decay experiments

Abstract We have constructed a system using a duoplasmatron source to produce a beam of low-energy (0 – few hundred eV) protons with the principal goal of testing and calibrating detectors used to detect protons from neutron β decay. The system is stable and produces beams by simply turning on the associated power supplies without the need of careful tuning. As an example we show data from calibration of a surface barrier detector in the emiT apparatus. Protons from the system were scattered from an Al target and used to calibrate detectors in the emiT apparatus.
Testing Competing Explanations of Black Opinions on Affirmative Action

Using the 1996 National Black Election Study, I estimate black opinions of affirmative action by developing models that capture the effects of self-interest, group consciousness, reference groups, and social justice. The method I used is ordered logit. An examination of the data show that, unlike many studies that examine the effects of self-interest on public opinion, I find that self-interest matters. I also find that black individuals also support affirmative action from a sense of group consciousness. The results also suggest that some support affirmative action consistent with the reference group theory and the pursuit of social justice.
The diagenetic production of α-keto acids in heated and fossil Chione shells

Abstract Both pyruvic and α-ketobutyric acids are formed during heating experiments with modern Chione shells. These α-keto acids are also present in fossil specimens. These findings provide additional evidence that the dehydration reaction of free serine and threonine or the β-elimination reaction of peptide bound serine and threonine occurred in fossil materials. These experiments suggest that the formation of α-keto acids occurs early in protein diagenesis. A large fraction of the α-keto acids which were formed have been lost either by subsequent reactions or by diffusion out of the shell matrix.
Reduction of linolenate content in soybean cotyledons by a substituted pyridazinone

Abstract The effect of a substituted pyridazinone, 4-chloro-5-(dimethylamino)-2-phenyl-3(2 H )-pyridazinone (San 9785), on the reduction of linolenate content was examined in the cotyledons of the soybean cv. Century and a low linolenate mutant of soybeans, C1640, cultured in vitro . No apparent changes in dry matter and total fatty acid accumulation were observed in the cotyledons developing in the presence of San 9785. However, a significant reduction of linolenate content with a corresponding increase in linoleate resulted from growth of the cotyledons in culture medium containing San 9785. San 9785 had a greater effect on decreasing the linolenate content in cotyledons excised in early developmental phases than later stages from both the wild type and mutant soybeans. This result supports other observations that the biosynthesis oflinolenate relative to the other major fatty acids of soybean cotyledons declines in later developmental stages. The compound becomes progressively less effective in reducing the content of linolenate during seed development in the mutant than in the wild type. Both San 9785 and the mutation result in changes in phosphatidylcholine molecular species which indicates the presence of a number oflinolenate desaturation systems in developing soybean cotyledons. The possible biochemical nature of the mutation is discussed.
Authentic suffering, anxious narrator: survivor anxiety in Nagata Mikihiko's ‘The Wild Dance of the Flames’

Abstract This article explores the seldom expressed class anxiety present behind representations of the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. As with most disasters, those living in the poorer districts suffered more acutely. The government was aware of this fact and it lies unspoken behind the post-quake ideological campaign emphasizing unity. Most popular representations of the quake did little to trouble the state discourse. In Nagata Mikihiko's work, however, the interaction between the narrator and a sufferer reveals both the differing conditions of vulnerability that caused the unequal distribution of damage as well as the middle class anxiety when faced with that difference.
Measuring the impact of probabilistic transmission on neuronal output

We have investigated the impact of stochastic transmission on the input-output relations of neurons in hippocampal slices. A synaptic input that fires a cell has a significant trial-to-trial variability in amplitude, reflecting the probabilistic release of transmitter. By measuring miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents, we estimate that synchronous release of a few vesicles can fire a CA1 cell. The firing threshold and variability can be physiologically modulated. Different cell types have distinct firing thresholds and variabilities. Long-term potentiation (LTP) decreases trial-to-trial variability. If after LTP, the stimulus is reduced to produce a threshold response, the variability returns to that observed before LTP. Thus, for a threshold input, the trial-to-trial variability is maintained with LTP. This may be important for the proper functioning of a plastic nervous system.
Surface Tensions of Alumina‐Containing Liquids

The surface tensions of C02- laser-melted alumina-containing liquids have been measured by a static, pendant-drop technique in air, helium, and a 90% helium-10% hydrogen mixture. The influences of up to 10 wt% Cr203, MgO, and TiO2 have been studied. Surface tension data are also reported throughout the whole concentration range between liquid alumina and zirconia in air. A new analytical technique based on comparing calculated and observed melt contours is reported. Using this technique, more precise surface tension to density ratios can be determined from low length to diameter ratio pendant drops than by previously reported procedures.
The nature of serpentine endemism

Serpentine soils are a model system for the study of plant adaptation, speciation, and species interactions. Serpentine soil is an edaphically stressful, low productivity soil type that hosts stunted vegetation and a spectacular level of plant endemism. One of the first papers on serpentine plant endemism was by Arthur Kruckeberg, titled "Intraspecific variability in the response of certain native plant species to serpentine soil." Published in the American Journal of Botany in 1951, it has been cited over 100 times. Here, I review the context and content of the paper, as well as its impact. On the basis of the results of reciprocal transplant experiments in the greenhouse, Kruckeberg made three important conclusions on the nature of serpentine plant endemism: (1) Plants are locally adapted to serpentine soils, forming distinct soil ecotypes; (2) soil ecotypes are the first stage in the evolutionary progression toward serpentine endemism; and (3) serpentine endemics are restricted from more fertile nonserpentine soils by competition. Kruckeberg's paper inspired a substantial amount of research, especially in the three areas reviewed here: local adaptation and plant traits, speciation, and the interaction of climate and soil in plant endemism. In documenting soil ecotypes, Kruckeberg identified serpentine soils as a potent selective factor in plant evolution and helped establish serpentine soils as a model system in evolution and ecology.
Angiotensin blockade: its clinical significance.

Abstract An understanding of the possible role of excessive angiotensin II activity In the pathogenesis of hypertension in every patient is therapeutically desirable, but it is frustrated by the lack of complete reliability of peripheral plasma measurements of renin activity. Observation of a clear-cut, supranormal decrease in blood pressure during the intravenous infusion of the angiotensin II antagonist, saralasin, has provided a far more reliable indication of the presence of an angiotensinogenic component in the hypertension. There is convincing evidence, however, that the presence of sodium-overload may prevent a decrease in blood pressure during saralasin infusion in persons known to have angiotensinogenic hypertension and that saralasin may cause a slight decrease in the blood pressure of normal subjects after natriuresis. For these reasons, it is important to study hypotensive responses to saralasin under standardized conditions after the administration of a potent diuretic and to compare the observations with those made on normal subjects under identical circumstances. This angiotensin antagonist may be used in the therapy of malignant or advanced hypertension and as an aid to therapeutic decisions in hypertensive patients who have known renal diseases, are taking oral contraceptives or have had severe trauma to the area of the kidneys. Side effects of saralasin are limited to excessive falls in blood pressure levels, mainly when vasodilators or ganglioplegic drugs are being taken at the time of the saralasin infusion, and excessive rises in blood pressure levels, especially in hypertensive subjects with "low renin" activity during high rates of saralasin infusion or after intravenous injections of large boluses. This safe and reliable drug is a valuable tool in the investigation and therapy of hypertension.
Biosynthesis of naringin in Citrus paradisi: UDP-glucosyl-transferase activity in grapefruit seedlings

Abstract A UDP-glucosyltransferase activity capable of position-specific transfer of glucose to the 7-position of naringenin has been isolated from grapefruit seedlings. Leaves are the richest source of this activity on a fresh weight basis. Characteristics include a pH optimum of 6.5–7.5, a temperature optimum of 37°, an apparent E act of 7.76 kcal mol −1 , and an apparent K m for naringenin of 0.08 mM. Hesperitin and 2′,4′,6′,4-tetrahydroxychalcone are also glucosylated with apparent K m 's of 0.11 mM and 0.13 mM respectively. Thermal degradation studies indicate that the naringenin and hesperitin glucosylating activities have different stabilities. Chromatofocusing resolves the naringenin glucosylating activity into two peaks with apparent pI's of 4.4 and 3.9. The hesperitin glucosylating activity separates into three peaks with apparent pI's of 4.5, 4.4, and 4.0.
Cone Based Clustering for List Scheduling Algorithms

List scheduling algorithms attempt to minimize latency under resource constraints using a priority list. We propose a new heuristic that can be used in conjunction with any priority function. At each time-step, the proposed clustering heuristic tries to find a best match between ready operations and the resource set. The heuristic arbitrates among equal priority operations based on operation-clusters formed from the dependency graph. Based on this heuristic we have presented a new Cone-Based List Scheduling (\CBLS\@) algorithm. Results presented in this paper compare \CBLS\ with the well-known Force Directed List Scheduling (\FDLS\@) algorithm, for several synthesis benchmarks. In cases where \FDLS\ produces sub-optimal schedules, \CBLS\ produces better schedules and in other cases \CBLS\ performs as good as \FDLS\@. Moreover, in conjunction with a simple priority function (namely the self-force of an operator), \CBLS\ results in considerable improvement in latency when compared to \FDLS\ that has the same priority function. Finally, we show that \CBLS\ with the simple priority function performs better in execution time as well as latency when compared to the original \FDLS\ that has a relatively complex priority function.
Sums of exchangeable Bernoulli random variables for family and litter frequency data

We describe new families of discrete distributions that are used to model sums of exchangeable Bernoulli random variables. These discrete distributions can be parameterized in terms of their range, mean, variance, and shape parameters. These models are fitted to an example involving mortality rates for children in a survey of families in Brazil. The methods illustrate that mortality rates in this survey increase with family size and that the correlation of within-family mortality status also depends on the family size. These methods are also applied to a laboratory study of birth defects in mice.
Judgment Error and Expert Critics in Forecasting Tasks

This paper presents an approach to elicit and critique intuitive forecasts. It attempts to retain the valid component of experts' judgments while correcting some biases. Decision science and expert system techniques were unified with the design of an expert critiquing system. A real world application of the resulting critic verifies the approach. A discussion addresses how to create a similar critic for other forecast settings.
THE PHOTOCHEMICALLY INDUCED REACTIONS OF SULFUR DIOXIDE WITH ALKANES AND CARBON MONOXIDE

— The gas phase photochemical reactions of SO2 induced by 3130 A radiation have been studied in the presence of added alkanes or added CO. The quantum yields obtained in the reactions with the low molecular weight alkanes employed are lower than those obtained by previous workers. The quantum yields were found to be pressure dependent increasing slowly with increasing pressure. A stoichiometric ratio of one SO2 removed per molecule of hydrocarbon consumed was observed only under experimental conditions of [SO2] < [RH]. For reaction mixtures where [SO2] < [RH] the ratio of [SO2]/[RH] reacted always exceeded unity. The quantum yields decreased slightly with increasing temperature. In all the alkane reaction systems studied, the deposition of viscous, nonvolatile reaction products was observed. In the experiments with added CO, the quantum yields were computed with respect to the rate of CO2 formation. At 25°C and equal pressures of SO2 and CO, φco2 was observed to be 0.005 and it decreased slightly with increasing temperature. The results obtained are interpreted in terms of the sulfoxidation of the alkanes and the oxidation of CO proceeding by way of a 3SO2 reaction intermediate.
The Organization of Augustine's Psalmus contra Partem Donati

Augustine of Hippo writes in the Retractations that he composed his Psalmus contra Partem Donati (393) as a retort to the rhymed "psalms" which Donatist congregations chanted, and that he had intended his own Psalm for chanting in his congregation. Instead of a lyrical hymn, however, Augustine composed a brilliant defense of the catholic understanding of the nature and mission of the Christian community in the world. The piece was meant for his congregation to sing according to individual capacity but was structured and delivered as a homily rather than a hymn. To produce his didactic, polemical sung sermon, Augustine employed not only the standard rhetorical elements like repetition, anaphora, and even prosopopoeia, which readers have recognized, he also used the organizational pattern of forensic oratory: exordium, narratio, refutatio, confirmatio, and peroratio, which has not been commented on. The form of the Psalmus also has no sources in Latin but it reflects the pattern of other verse sermons of the era, such as those abundantly represented in the Greek East.
Studies of a colchicine-binding protein (tubulin) in the adrenal cortex and brain.

Abstract Colchicine-binding activity (tubulin) in the cytosol of the adrenal cortex of several species was examined by analytical polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and compared to the same activity using partially purified (assembly-disassembly method) tubulin from pig and guinea pig brain. Using this technique no distinction could be made on the basis of tissue or species, i.e. the colchicine-binding activity was essentially the same for all sources of tubulin.
Testing multinomial parameters under order restrictions

Let be a given probability vector .We consider the probability vector , defined by pi = λ iqi , for all i and satisfies an arbitrary quasi-order restriction. Given observations from a multinomial distribution with probability vector p, we consider estimation of p based on the directed divergence criteria subject to such restrictions. We consider the likelihood ratio tests when testing for and against the order restriction, and in both cases the asymptotic null distributions of the test statistics are shown to be of the chi-bar-squared type. When the directed divergence is used as a test criteria, the null asymptotic distribution of the test statistic is shown to be the same as the corresponding null asymptotic distribution of the likelihood ratio statistic in both cases. An example is used to illustrate the technique developed. A simulation is conducted to compare the performance of different test statistics.
Estimation of microscopic, zwitterionic ionization constants, isoelectric point and molecular speciation of organic compounds

Mathematical models based on structure-activity relationships and perturbed molecular orbital theory have been developed to calculate the ionization pK(a)s for a large number of organic molecules. These models include resonance, direct and indirect electrostatic field effects, sigma induction, steric effects, differential solvation and hydrogen bonding. The thermodynamic microscopic ionization constants, pk(i), of molecules with multiple ionization sites and the corresponding complex speciation as a function of pH have been determined using these chemical reactivity models. For a molecule of interest SPARC (SPARC performs automated reasoning in chemistry) calculates all of the microscopic ionization constants and the fraction of each species as a function pH along with the titration (charge) curve. The system has been tested on several biologically and environmentally important compounds.
Relationships among progesterone, androgen, and estradiol in corpora lutea and nonluteal ovarian compartments of pseudopregnant rats: effects of decidual tissue.

Rats (200–275 g) were rendered pseudopregnant on the morning of estrus (day 1) by cervical stimulation. On day 5 of pseudopregnancy (PS), the rats (8–12/group) were subjected to either hysterectomy (HX) or unilateral or bilateral decidual cell reactions (uni- or bi-DCR). Control pseudopregnant (C-PS) rats were sham operated on day 5. On days 8 and 12, the rats were killed by decapitation. Blood was collected, and serum was saved for RIA of estradiol (E2), progesterone (P), androgen (A), and gonadotropins. Corpora lutea (CL) and the nonluteal ovarian compartment (NLO) were incubated separately in vitro for 2 h in Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate buffer, and steroid concentrations were determined in CL and NLO (before and after incubation) and in incubation media. On day 8 of PS, P and A levels in the serum in bi-DCR rats were higher than those in C-PS but not in uni-DCR and HX-PSP rats; however, on day 12, serum P and A levels in bi-DCR rats were higher than the levels of other PS groups, with the exception of C-P...
APPLICATIONS OF FREEZE-SUBSTITUTION TO ELECTRON MICROSCOPE STUDIES OF INVERTEBRATE OOCYTES

A modified freeze-substitution process is described which gives a low percentage (less than 5 per cent) of preparations of invertebrate eggs which appear to be ice crystal-free at the resolution of the electron microscope. The mitochondria show no membranes in these preparations but can be recognized by internal spaces with the size and the distribution of the cristae. The Golgi bodies resemble those seen with diffusion fixatives, but the limiting membranes are here double; that is, they appear to be a triple-layered sandwich with two outer dark approximately 25A layers and an inner light layer of the same thickness. The endoplasmic reticulum is clearly present and resembles that seen with diffusion fixatives. Here again, the limiting membranes are double with the same dimensions as those in the Golgi bodies. The membranes of the Golgi bodies and ER are seen after permanganate but not lead hydroxide staining. The hyaloplasm (or "cell sap") is crowded with 150 to 200A particles and these are also seen lining the ER membranes. In general, the structures as seen with the present technique show considerable similarity to those seen with diffusion fixatives.