cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Phencyclidine-induced desensitization of striatal dopamine release.

Abstract Increased release of dopamine (DA) and dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) from slices of striatum of DBA/2J mouse in response to administration of phencyclidine (PCP) in vitro has been observed to be transient, despite continued exposure to PCP. To determinewhether this transient response was a result of depletion of releasable pools, toxicity or an adaptice response (desensitization), the recovery of the response to PCP was evaluated. Slices in the control condition were exposed to PCP (300 μM) during test-exposure only. Slices in the PCP pre-exposure condition, were exposed first to PCP (30 μM; pre-exposure) and subsequently to PCP (300 μM; test-exposure). During a washout period (0, 30, 60 or 120 min) between exposures to PCP, the slices were superfused in the absence of PCP. Pre-exposure to PCP diminished the subsequent response to test-exposure to PCP (49 and 37% of control for DA and DOPAC, respectively) after 0 min washout. Overflow of DA evoked by PCP returned towards control values but remained decreased (66% of control) after up to 120 min washout. However, overflow of DOPAC did return to control values after 60 min washout. Thus, the diminished dopaminergic response, resulting from continued exposure to PCP was not due to depletion of the releasable pool or cytotoxicity but rather to a dynamic adaptive response of the dopaminergic neuron to PCP.
Modeling Dilute Gas-Solid Turbulent Boundary Layers Using Moment Methods

The specific focus of the current effort is on modeling dilute particle-laden turbulent boundary layers in which the gas-phase carrier flow is populated with a second phase of small, dispersed solid particles possessing material densities much larger than that of the carrier flow. A novel approach known as the conditional quadrature method of moments (CQMOM) developed by Yuan and Fox [1], derived from the quadrature-based method of moments (QMOM) developed originally by McGraw [2], is being implemented to model the dispersed particles as an Eulerian phase. Both enabled and disabled inter-particle collision treatments are included in the model for a dispersed phase coupled to the fluid via a drag force acting on the particles. Simulations are conducted with a Reynolds number of 2800 based on the boundary layer thickness at the inlet to the domain. The full 3-D mesh contains 800×128×98 structured cells with overall dimensions in terms of the inlet boundary layer thickness of 80×6 ×4 in the streamwise, spanwise, and wall-normal directions, respectively. The gas-phase carrier flow is computed using Direct Numerical Simulation of the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. The boundary layer develops spatially from a turbulent inflow condition and drives the particulate phase via drag and collisions. Comparisons are made against simulations performed using Lagrangian-based discrete particle simulation (DPS) of the dispersed phase and demonstrate the utility of the Eulerian moment method approach. Both instantaneous and time-averaged quantities are presented.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
On the mechanism and site of action of enkephalin on single myenteric neurons.

Abstract Intracellular recordings were made from neurons in the isolated myenteric plexus of the guinea-pig ileum. Methionine- and leucine-enkephalin were applied to the neurons either by adding them to the perfusing solution in known concentrations or by ejecting them by microiontophoresis. When applied in the perfusion solution, the enkephalin (1 nM-1 μM) hyperpolarized the soma membrane of less than half the neurons. The hyperpolarization was of rapid onset and reversed fully when the enkephalin was washed out; in a proportion of cells the hyperpolarization was associated with a fall in neuronal input resistance. This hyperpolarization was reversed or prevented by naloxone. When applied by iontophoresis to the soma membrane, enkephalin never hyperpolarized the myenteric neurons. Hyperpolarization in response to iontophoretic application of enkephalin was observed only when the enkephalin was applied to the surface of the ganglion away from the soma membrane; such hyperpolarization was prevented by addition of naloxone to the perfusion solution. The results indicate that the site at which enkephalin causes the naloxone-reversible hyperpolarization is not the soma membrane. The possibility is discussed that enkephalin may cause presynaptic inhibition in this preparation by hyperpolarizing or increasing the conductance of sites on the cellular processes from which acetylcholine is released.
Ictal asystole: A benign condition?

Ictal asystole (IA) has been implicated as a preventable cause of sudden unexplained death in epilepsy presumably provoked by a direct autonomic effect of the electrical stimulus on the heart. An electronic database search of patients with IA was performed comparing heart rate (HR) characteristics to a group of patients with vasovagal asystole. IA was seen in eight patients, all with temporal lobe epilepsy. No statistical difference was found in duration of asystole, bradycardia, and baseline HR characteristics except of a higher HR acceleration postasystole in the controls. None of the six patients with IA who underwent pacemaker implantation had recurrence of asystolic events during mean follow-up of 5 years. This study in a small group of patients suggests that the epileptic activation leading to IA is possibly mediated through a transient increase in vagal tone and not by a direct autonomic effect on the heart.
On the nature and order of organizational processing: A reply to Peterson.

Several points in the original article by Palmer and Rock (1994) are clarified in light of Peterson’s (1994) commentary. First, we address several issues related to the nature and order of organizational processes in our theory. We argue that many of her objections result from misconceptions about our theory. We attempt to clarify the relevant issues, including the fact that we intended the theory to describe an ordering of processes in cascade rather than as a sequence of classical discrete stages. Second, we discuss Peterson’s objections to our discussion of her findings on the relation between figure-ground processing and object recognition. We argue against her “prefigural recognition” proposal on logical grounds and provide an alternative account of her findings in terms of our theory.
Ecology: Redefining nature

Shahid Naeem compares two books that call for us to embrace the influence of humans on ecosystems.
Concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins in processed ball clay from the United States

Processed ball clays commonly used by the ceramic art industry in the United States were collected from retail suppliers and analyzed for the presence and concentration of the 2,3,7,8-Cl substituted polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDDs/PCDFs). The average PCDD toxic equivalent (TEQ) concentrations of these processed ball clays was approximately 800 pg/g (TEQ-WHO) with characteristic congener profiles and isomer distributions similar to patterns of previously analyzed raw and processed ball clays. The PCDF concentrations were below the average limit of detection (LOD) of 0.5 pg/g. Correlation analyses reveal no significant relationship between total organic carbon (TOC) and either individual, homologues, and total tetra-through octa-chlorinated PCDD congeners, or TEQ concentrations of the processed ball clays. The results are consistent with earlier studies on levels of PCDDs in ball clays. Data from earlier studies indicated that dioxins may be released to the environment during the processing of raw clay or the firing process used in commercial ceramic facilities. The presence of dioxin in the clays also raises concerns about potential occupational exposure for individuals involved in the mining/processing of ball clay, ceramics manufacturing and ceramic artwork. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Irreversible capacities of graphite anode for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and in-situ intrinsic resistance measurements were applied to sandwiched disk graphite electrodes to investigate the mechanism of formation of irreversible capacity during initial galvanostatic or potentiostatic lithium intercalation into graphite in four different electrolyte formulations. The stability of the solid ∣ electrolyte interphase (SEI) film formed during pre-cycling eight times between 1.5 and 0.2 V versus Li ∣ Li + in 1.0 M LiPF 6 +ethylene carbonate (EC) based electrolytes was studied using EIS and in-situ intrinsic resistance measurements during subsequent cycling in the same electrolyte between 0.4 and 0.0 V, and in 1 M LiPF 6 –propylene carbonate (PC) between 0.4 and 0.0 V. The purpose of the first set of results was to investigate the effect of the volume change resulting from stage transformation during Li intercalation–deintercalation on the stability of the previously formed SEI film. The second measurements were taken to study the reaction of the corresponding film in PC electrolyte. Results show that the two potential plateaus at around 0.9 and 0.6 V in the first galvanostic charge largely correspond to solvated Li intercalation into graphite with some contribution from the formation of the SEI film. In EC-containing mixtures, this solvent has little influence on co-intercalation at 0.9 V, but can effectively inhibit the process at 0.6 V. Potentiostatic charging at 0.2 or 0.7 V accelerates co-intercalation. Although the SEI film formed during cycling in EC-containing electrolytes can inhibit PC co-intercalation during subsequent cycles in the presence of this solvent, a new layer of different SEI film may also form.
Freezing Tolerance and Injury in Grapevines

Summary Grapes, due to their wide distribution, are one of the temperate fruit crops most frequently damaged by freezing temperatures. Freezing injury can result in decreases in yield and substantial economic losses to grape growers, subsequently impacting fruit wholesalers, wineries, distributors, and related industries. Freeze damage is not limited to the northern or southern limits of the production range. Freezing injury can occur in spring, fall, or winter in many of the grape growing regions. An understanding of the mechanisms involved in freezing tolerance, acclimation, and deacclimation in grapevines is needed to match cultivars appropriately with growing sites, improve cultural practices that minimize freezing injury, and aid in breeding and selecting cultivars with improved freezing tolerance. The ability to avoid or tolerate freezing temperatures includes a complex set of traits that is influenced by the inherent genetic characteristics of the grapevine and its interaction with the environment....
Prediction of treatment outcome among patients with irritable bowel syndrome treated with group cognitive therapy.

Abstract Using a sample of over 125 patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) who were treated with cognitive therapy administered in small groups, we sought to predict end of treatment and 3-month follow-up improvement in two changes indices of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms (Pain/Discomfort Index which assessed change in abdominal pain, abdominal tenderness and bloating and Bowel Regularity Index which assessed change in diarrhea and constipation). We also sought to predict scores on IBS specific quality of life (QOL) and overall level of psychological distress using the Global Severity Index (GSI) of the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). Significant, but modest, levels of prediction were found for prediction of improvement in GI symptoms (4–15% of variance). Stronger significant prediction was obtained for the QOL and global psychological distress measure with R 2 's ranging from 0.36 to 0.50. A wide variety of demographic, GI symptom, psychological status and psychiatric status variables entered the final prediction equations.
Effect of Hot‐Pressing Temperature on the Thermal Diffusivity/Conductivity of SiC/AlN Composites

Data are presented for the thermal diffusivity/conductivity of hot-pressed mixtures of SiC and AlN. Results indicate that hot-pressing at higher temperatures, which permits solid-solution formation, results in significantly lower thermal diffusivity/conductivity than is obtained by hot-pressing at lower temperatures, at which discrete phases exist.
Chondrocalcinosis and haemophilia

Chondrocalcinosis has been found in a wide variety of diseases. Cartilage calcification is commonly noted in patients with haemochromatosis., but it has not been previously reported in haemophilia, although increased levels of iron are present in the joints in both these conditions. The radiographic demonstration of chondrocalcinosis in patients with advanced joint changes due to haemophilia is precluded by the extensive joint narrowing and cartilage damage associated with the repeated haemarthroses. Cartilage calcification in less severely damaged joints of three patients with Factor VIII, AHG-deficient haemophilia is described. Inhibition of pyrophosphatase activity by divalent cations as a cause of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) deposition in cartilage is reviewed. The biomechanics of articular cartilage and the effects of divalent cations on normal cartilage elasticity are discussed. The possibility that both the development of the degenerative joint changes and the associated chondrocalcinosis may occur simultaneously due to the presence of abnormal divalent cations is suggested.
Special Section Guest Editorial: Advanced Plasma-Etch Technology

Plasma etch technology is an integral and indispensible part of patterning technology that has enabled continuous scaling in the semiconductor industry for more than forty years. Advancement in plasma-etch technology, along with other semiconductor process technologies, has brought the state-of-the-art semiconductor technology, the so-called 22 nm node of complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) technology, into mass production. This 22 nm node CMOS technology features a three-dimensional (3-D) FinFET, a metal one pitch of about 90 nm and copper/low-k interconnects. The next generation of 14 nm node CMOS technology is expected to be brought into mass production in the first quarter of 2014.
BBB leakage, astrogliosis, and tissue loss correlate with silicon microelectrode array recording performance

The clinical usefulness of brain machine interfaces that employ penetrating silicon microelectrode arrays is limited by inconsistent performance at chronic time points. While it is widely believed that elements of the foreign body response (FBR) contribute to inconsistent single unit recording performance, the relationships between the FBR and recording performance have not been well established. To address this shortfall, we implanted 4X4 Utah Electrode Arrays into the cortex of 28 young adult rats, acquired electrophysiological recordings weekly for up to 12 weeks, used quantitative immunohistochemical methods to examine the intensity and spatial distribution of neural and FBR biomarkers, and examined whether relationships existed between biomarker distribution and recording performance. We observed that the FBR was characterized by persistent inflammation and consisted of typical biomarkers, including presumptive activated macrophages and activated microglia, astrogliosis, and plasma proteins indicative of blood-brain-barrier disruption, as well as general decreases in neuronal process distribution. However, unlike what has been described for recording electrodes that create only a single penetrating injury, substantial brain tissue loss generally in the shape of a pyramidal lesion cavity was observed at the implantation site. Such lesions were also observed in stab wounded animals indicating that the damage was caused by vascular disruption at the time of implantation. Using statistical approaches, we found that blood–brain barrier leakiness and astrogliosis were both associated with reduced recording performance, and that tissue loss was negatively correlated with recording performance. Taken together, our data suggest that a reduction of vascular damage at the time of implantation either by design changes or use of hemostatic coatings coupled to a reduction of chronic inflammatory sequela will likely improve the recording performance of high density intracortical silicon microelectrode arrays over long indwelling periods and lead to enhanced clinical use of this promising technology.
Photodynamic therapy for endometrial ablation: a study of treatment parameters and effects

The use of PDT for endometrial ablation has been the focus of much recent research. However, the mechanism of action, optimal treatment parameters, and long-term clinical effect are still poorly understood. This study was undertaken to further the understanding of the endometrial response to this drug/light- induced damage. Postpartum rat (Charles River) uterine horns were used as the animal model for fluorescence and treatment studies. Aminolevulinic acid was administered topically (intrauterine), and following a 0.5- to 3-hour drug incubation time, the endometrium was either removed and processed for fluorescence microscopy to assess drug localization or exposed to 150-200 J/cm2 of 630-nm laser light via a 1-cm cylindrical diffusing tip. The light=treated uterine horns were removed and histologically examine 7 to 10 days following treatment. The extent and character of uterine and endometrial damage (gross and histological analysis) were recorded for the varying light doses and incubation times. With topical (intrauterine) application of photosensitizer, incubation time and penetration ability of drug were found to be crucial factors. The use of a drug penetration enhancing vehicle produced greater tissue effects (endometrial ablation). These preliminary studies also showed that tissue effect is drug and light dose related and that the most profound effects may be vascular mediated. The study provided preliminary information for the use of PDT in gynecological applications such as endometrial ablation and female sterilization through Fallopian tube occlusion.
Reliability of linear oscillators subject to wind loads

Estimates are developed for the stationary response X(t) of a linear oscillator excited by wind loads. The wind loads are modelled as the square of a stationary Gaussian process Y(t). The analysis is based on three techniques, referred to as the characteristic function approach, the moment approach, and the path integral approach. The characteristic function approach uses an approximation to the joint density of X(t) and X(t) ≡ dX(t)/dt based on inverting the joint characteristic function. The mean upcrossing rate is thereby obtained and used to estimate the reliability. The moment approach also uses the mean upcrossing rate, but approximates it using higher moments of X(t) and dotX(t). The path integral method is equivalent to approximating the response by a Markov process. It provides the stationary distribution of X(t) as well as the mean time to failure.
The association of organic molecules with clay minerals in aqueous solutions

Abstract The uptake of dissolved organic molecules by kaolinite and montomorillonite clay minerals was measured in distilled water and saltwater solutions. Glucose and valine exhibited low affinities for both clay minerals over a wide range of concentrations in distilled water and seawater solutions. Stearic acid was efficiently removed by both clay minerals from all solutions over the concentration range 10–1000 ppb. These experiments suggest that some dissolved organic molecules may be preferentially removed by clay minerals in natural waters. It is unlikely, however, that the partitioning of simple organic molecules between natural waters and suspended clay minerals could produce the high concentrations of organic matter that occur in most fine-grained sediments.
Determining the representative volume element size for three-dimensional microstructural material characterization. Part 1: Predictive models

Abstract Recent advances in microstructural imaging and characterization tools have led to an increase in the direct examination of 3-D microstructures of composite materials in devices such as solid oxide fuel cells, battery electrodes, and composite gas separation membranes. In particular, focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy and x-ray nanotomography methods have opened the door for materials characterization at the tens of nanometer scale. These experimental methods have enabled the quantitative evaluation of microstructures for a variety of important parameters. However, there is often uncertainty in the literature regarding the necessary size of a representative volume element (RVE) in order to capture an accurate description of the structure. In an effort to provide guidance for the field, in this work simplified geometric models are presented to provide basis for the a priori estimation of RVE size for three common microstructural parameters: volume fraction, particle size, and network contiguity. In a second and complementary paper (Part 2), the results of the model will be compared to experimental data obtained from the extensive imaging of a multiphase composite membrane material using x-ray nanotomography.
Exploring the Dynamics of Resilience

Resilience is a complex of behaviours seen in complex work systems, whereby they are able to largely meet their fundamental goals despite threats and challenges to their work and even their existence. It is not something a system has, but rather something a system does. Because resilient behaviour (or lack thereof) is manifested over time, the dynamics of resilience are of interest. Studies of resilience to date have been largely descriptive, but understanding of how resilient performance comes about, and especially how we might enhance it, or recognize that a system is losing it, has been difficult. This work uses system dynamics models to develop inductively a theory of activities resulting in resilient performance in complex systems, and to elaborate on previous representations of system resilience. Such models might be useful in two ways: explaining how resilient behaviours observed might come about; and exploring the temporal dynamics of changes in state (for example, suggesting leading rather than l...
Effects of Undergoing Arbitrary Discrimination Upon Subsequent Attitudes Toward a Minority Group1

The purpose of the experiment was to test the hypothesis that having been both the object of prejudice and discrimination and the discriminator, a child will be less likely to hold prejudiced beliefs and exhibit discriminatory behavior toward a minority group. A 3rd-grade class was randomly divided into Orange and Green people. On Day I, Orange children were “superior” and Green children were “inferior”. On Day II, statuses were rcvcrsed. On Day III and again 2 weeks later, the experimental class was significantly more likely to desire a picnic with a group of Black children and held less-prejudiced beliefs when compared to the Control. The manipulation did not affect performance on Days I and II.
Characterizing the water extremes of the new century in the US South-west: a comprehensive assessment from state-of-the-art climate model projections

The impact of climate change scenarios in the hydrology of the Verde River basin (Arizona) is analyzed using an ensemble of downscaled climate model results, SPI analysis, and two hydrologic models of different complexity. To assess model uncertainty, 47 ensemble members combining simulations from 16 global climate models and 3 emission scenarios were used to provide an uncertainty envelope in the hydrologic variables. The analysis shows that simple lumped models and more complex distributed runoff models can yield similar results. Results show that under all scenarios, the distribution functions of hydrologic states will shift towards lower values and droughts will progressively become more frequent, longer and more intense.
Simulating the Effects of Fund Valuation Policies on the Measurement of Risk in Venture Capital

The common venture capital adage that there is “too much money chasing too few good deals” is in essence an indirect criticism that limited partners are not demanding sufficient risk premia from their venture portfolios. But the lack of objective, regular pricing data for venture fund assets makes this a difficult charge to evaluate even with the benefit of historical hindsight. How risky is a well diversified portfolio of venture funds and what kind of mean returns should LPs demand? This article explores that question indirectly by using computer simulations to estimate how much underlying asset risk may be masked by venture firms9 portfolio valuation policies. TOPICS:Private equity, VAR and use of alternative risk measures of trading risk, simulations
The Nature and Extent of Test-Wiseness Cues in Seventh— and Tenth-Grade Classroom Tests

In the present study, 100 seventh— and tenth-grade tests across several content areas were examined for the presence of six types of test-wiseness cues. Questions addressed included: (a) What is th...
Electrophysiological findings in a cohort of old polio survivors

A population-based cohort of poliomyelitis survivors was established and followed for 15 years (mean time since polio was 40 years). Over time, the cohort demonstrated a modest decline in summated compound muscle action potential amplitudes (CMAP) and a moderate decline in the summated motor unit number estimates (MUNE). There was no association between symptoms of late deterioration and magnitude of decline. Rather, the presence of these symptoms was associated with the magnitude of the residual deficits. Two patterns of neuron loss were modeled (linear and proportional decline). The summated MUNE was a more sensitive measure of loss of motor units than was the summated CMAP and appears to be a more valid measure of attritional loss of anterior horn cells. Of these two models of neuron loss, the proportional loss of motor neurons was a better fit of the data than a linear loss.
Electromyographic activity of selected trunk and hip muscles during a squat lift. Effect of varying the lumbar posture.

Electromyographic (EMG) activity of selected hip and trunk muscles was recorded during a squat lift, and the effects of two different lumbar spine postures were examined. Seven muscles were analyzed: rectus abdominis (RA), abdominal obliques (AO), erector spinae (ES), latissimus dorsi (LD), gluteus maximus (GM), biceps femoris (BF), and semitendinosus (ST). The muscles were chosen for their attachments to the thoracolumbar fascia and their potential to act on the trunk, pelvis, and hips. Seventeen healthy male subjects participated in the study. Each subject did three squat lifts with a 157-N crate, with the spine in both a lordotic and kyphotic posture. The lift was divided into four equal periods. EMG activity of each muscle was quantified for each period and normalized to the peak amplitude of a maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). A two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures was used to analyze the effects of posture on the amplitude and timing of EMG activity during the lift. Two patterns of EMG activity were seen: a trunk muscle pattern (RA, AO, ES, and LD) and a hip extensor pattern (GM, BF, ST). In the trunk muscle pattern (TP), EMG activity was greatest in the first quarter and decreased as the lift progressed. In the hip extensor pattern (HP), EMG activity was least in the first quarter, increased in the second and third quarters, and decreased in the final phase of the lift. Differences (P < .05) were seen among subjects and in the timing of the muscle activity in all muscles.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Thiazolidinediones expand body fluid volume through PPARγ stimulation of ENaC-mediated renal salt absorption

Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) are widely used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus; however, their use is complicated by systemic fluid retention. Along the nephron, the pharmacological target of TZDs, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma, encoded by Pparg), is most abundant in the collecting duct. Here we show that mice treated with TZDs experience early weight gain from increased total body water. Weight gain was blocked by the collecting duct-specific diuretic amiloride and was also prevented by deletion of Pparg from the collecting duct, using Pparg (flox/flox) mice. Deletion of collecting duct Pparg decreased renal Na(+) avidity and increased plasma aldosterone. Treating cultured collecting ducts with TZDs increased amiloride-sensitive Na(+) absorption and Scnn1g mRNA (encoding the epithelial Na(+) channel ENaCgamma) expression through a PPARgamma-dependent pathway. These studies identify Scnn1g as a PPARgamma target gene in the collecting duct. Activation of this pathway mediates fluid retention associated with TZDs, and suggests amiloride might provide a specific therapy.
Trypanosome Transmitted by Phlebotomus: First Report from the Americas

Transmission studies carried out in the laboratory incriminated Phlebotomus vexator occidentis as a vector of a species of trypanosome that infects Bufo boreas halophilus. Toads free of parasites contracted the trypanosome after eating infected flies and after intraperitoneal inoculation of flagellates cultured from the hindgut of flies that had fed on infected toads. Discovery of this vectorhost-parasite system in the Americas, and the localization of promastigote flagellates (leptomonads) in the hindgut of the vector, should assist in clarifying interpretative problems associated with infection of wild-caught flies in studies on leishmaniasis in the Americas and elsewhere.
Deposition of histone H2A.Z by the SWR-C remodeling enzyme prevents genome instability

The yeast SWR-C chromatin remodeling enzyme catalyzes chromatin incorporation of the histone variant H2A.Z which plays roles in transcription, DNA repair, and chromosome segregation. Dynamic incorporation of H2A.Z by SWR-C also enhances the ability of exonuclease I (Exo1) to process DNA ends during repair of double strand breaks. Given that Exo1 also participates in DNA replication and mismatch repair, here we test whether SWR-C influences DNA replication fidelity. We find that inactivation of SWR-C elevates the spontaneous mutation rate of a strain encoding a L612M variant of DNA polymerase (Pol) δ, with a single base mutation signature characteristic of lagging strand replication errors. However, this genomic instability does not solely result from reduced Exo1 function, because single base mutator effects are seen in both Exo1-proficient and Exo1-deficient pol3-L612M swr1Δ strains. The data are consistent with the possibility that incorporation of the H2A.Z variant by SWR-C may stimulate Exo1 activity, as well as enhance the fidelity of replication by Pol δ, the repair of mismatches generated by Pol δ, or both.
Sensation seeking and arousal systems

Abstract This article discusses the overgeneralized construct of ‘arousal’, pointing out some of the problems of speaking of it as mediated by a single system. The literature and current studies of the orienting and defensive reflexes, and augmenting-reducing of the cortical evoked potential in relation to the sensation-seeking (SS) trait are discussed. The data relating platelet MAO and CSF, plasma and urinary measures of bioamines, their metabolites and enzymes, to SS, extraversion and behavioral indices are also treated. Relationships between arousal measured in different systems are pointed out. Personality theory is seen as a vehicle for understanding the organization of arousal systems in adaptation to environmental stimulation.
Low-frequency Raman-scattering study of the liquid-glass transition in aqueous lithium chloride solutions.

Raman spectra of 15 and 30 mol % aqueous LiCl solutions were studied in the frequency range 3--350 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$, from room temperature to 78 K. At high temperatures, the spectra are very similar to the Raman spectrum of pure water. As the temperature is lowered through the glass transition, the broad central peak that is typical of liquids evolves continuously into a narrow central peak plus a broad band centered near 60 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$, both with a depolarization ratio of \ensuremath{\sim}0.8. This evolution suggests a common origin for these two features, which are typical of glasses. Comparison of our results with the disorder-induced-scattering model of Martin and Brenig [Phys. Status Solidi B 64, 163 (1974)], which is often used for glasses, produced poor agreement for both the intensity and depolarization ratio. In an alternative approach, we combined Stephen's [Phys. Rev. 187, 279 (1969)] second-order Raman-scattering theory for fluids with generalized hydrodynamics and mode-coupling concepts. This approach gave predictions for the depolarization ratio in excellent agreement with our experimental results. It also produced a qualitatively correct description of the low-frequency Raman spectral shape in both the glass and liquid phases.
Validation of Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results TNM staging for testicular germ cell tumor

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the accuracy of testicular germ cell tumor category in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database following the 2010 American Joint Committee of Cancer revision of the TNM staging criteria. Methods We performed a retrospective review of our testicular cancer database from January 2010 to July 2011. Registrar extracted data on 76 patients were entered into the Cancer Surveillance Program database from 2 hospitals. We reviewed the SEER coding for each patient, including T, N, M, and S and overall stage group, as well as the range and S value given for tumor markers (lactate dehydrogenase, beta-human chorionic gonadotropin, and α-fetoprotein) both preorchiectomy and postorchiectomy. We then compared these values with the actual staging and tumor markers determined by patient medical record review by a single urologist. Results A high proportion of registry records were found to have inaccurate values of category: 71% of S category entries and 34% of N category entries, leading to an overall group stage inaccuracy of 77% in SEER data. Accuracy of overall combined stage group was significantly different between hospitals, with a higher percentage of errors at Hospital A (P Conclusion Despite improvements made to the SEER criteria for extracting data used to code testicular germ cell tumor TNM stage, considerable errors were identified, most notably in tumor marker and nodal status, resulting in an overwhelming number of errors in overall stage. Our findings suggest caution when utilizing SEER data for review of patients with testicular cancer and their staging.
Neglect-Like Symptoms in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Results of a Self-Administered Survey

Abstract Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), recently reclassified as a complex regional pain syndrome, type I (CRPS- I), is best known for its disabling sensory symptoms, including pain, allodynia, and abnormal skin temperature. Yet, motor dysfunction is common in CRPS and can result in major disability. In addition to weakness of the involved limb, CRPS patients may develop symptoms akin to a neurological neglect-like syndrome, whereby the limb may feel foreign ("cognitive neglect") and directed mental and visual attention is needed to move the limb ("motor neglect"). Members of the patient support group, the Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association (RSDSA), were mailed a questionnaire inserted in their newsletter which inquired about the presence of these neglect-like symptoms; in addition, a separate medical history questionnaire was included to assess adequate documentation for the diagnosis of CRPS. A total of 242 patients returned the questionnaire but only 224 of the questionnaires were analyzed; 15 were excluded due to inadequate documentation of CRPS and 3 were excluded due to non-limb involvement. Eighty-four percent (84%) of these respondents endorsed the presence of at least one neglect symptom and 47% indicated they had both "cognitive" and "motor" neglect symptoms. Of interest, approximately 33% of respondents spontaneously wrote comments regarding the significant disability due to these neglect symptoms and the difficulty explaining these unusual symptoms to their health care providers and family. This patient survey confirms the presence of neglect-like symptoms in a subset of CRPS patients. Neglect-like symptoms need to be addressed and validated by health care providers.
An HCFG model of a traffic intersection specified using HiMASS-j

The specification of a simulation model of a complex traffic intersection using the Hierarchical Nodeling - SimulationSystem-Java (HiMASS-j) is presented. HIMASS-j is an object-oriented Java 1.1 based simulation software system that uses the Hierarchical Control Flow Graph (HCFG) Model paradigm. Models specified in this paradigm use two complementary hierarchical specification structures, one to specify the model components and their interconnections and the other to specify the behaviors of the individual components. Models are specified in HiMASS-j via visual inter active modeling. the model. HiMASS-j is a Java (Arnold 1996) based objectoriented software system developed and tested on Sun SPARC workstations running Solaris and Pentium based personnel computers running Linux and Windows 95; however, due to the platform independent nature of Java, HiMASS-j can be run on any system that provides Java 1.1 support. The remainder of the paper contains the following: an overview of the traffic intersection in Section 2, a description of the HIG, the HCFGs, and the Experimental Frame (EF) of the simulation model in Section 3, animation of the simulation model in Section 4, and a summary in Section 5.
Electrical conductivity and nonstoichiometry in doped Sr3Ti2O7

A series of doped Ruddlesden‐Popper phases, of general formula Sr3Ti2-xMxO7- (Ma Al;Ga;Co), were synthesized and their electrical conductivity characterized as a function of temperature and oxygen partial pressure. For fixed-valent dopants, p-type conductivity predominates at p(O2)> 10 ˇ5 atm, followed by a p(O2)-independent electrolytic regime, and n-type electronic conductivity at very low p(O2). The electrolytic regime exhibits activation energies in the range 1.7‐1.8eV. Doping with transition metals such as Co results in a very significant increase in total conductivity with a p-type conductivity at high p(O2). Furthermore, an apparent ionic regime at intermediate p(O2) is observed, characterized by high conductivity (> 10 ˇ2 S/cm at 700C) and low activation energy (0.6eV). This interpretation is consistent with iodometric measurements as interpreted by a defect chemical model. Other measurements are in progress to confirm this conclusion. # 1999 Elsevier Science Limited. All rights reserved
Minimizing bearing bias in tracking by de-coupled rotation and translation estimates

The problem of tracking Euclidean motion is formulated as a sequential learning of rotations and translations. For tracking modalities such as radar and sonar, this approach avoids a fundamental mismatch that arises with standard trackers that model motion dynamics in Cartesian coordinates but track based on measurements whose noise is best modeled in polar coordinates. By considering motion in terms of rotations and translations and using group-theoretic estimation, the proposed tracker enjoys the advantage of unbiased averaging on the rotation group, in accordance with the geometry of the measurements. We demonstrate the proposed method with illustrative preliminary experiments. The stability and convergence of the proposed algorithm is established, extending known convergence results for online learning of rotations.
GENERALIZED INVERSES FOR ROBOTIC MANIPULATORS

Abstract Jacobians are used in robotics for motion planning and control. They are also used in algorithms that determine linkage parameter errors of robots and in algorithms that determine pair variable corrections for accurate motion. Most applications require that the inverse of the Jacobian be obtained. The causes of singularities in Jacobians and a procedure to detect their presence are given. Appropriate inverse solution techniques and their implementation for robots with various types of singularities is outlined. The solutions are applicable to robots with less than, equal to, or greater than six degrees of freedom. For each case, the implementation of both the complete Moore-Penrose inverse and a robot specific pseudo inverse are included. Although it is not necessary to use the Moore-Penrose inverse on any particular robot, the Moore-Penrose inverse can be used to obtain generic inverses for general purpose applications.
Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α (HIF-1α) Is Required for Neural Stem Cell Maintenance and Vascular Stability in the Adult Mouse SVZ

HIF-1α is a hypoxia-inducible protein that regulates many cell and molecular processes, including those involved in angiogenesis and stem cell maintenance. Prior studies demonstrated constitutive HIF-1α stabilization in neural stem cells (NSCs) of the adult mouse SVZ, but its role there has not been elucidated. Here, we tested the hypothesis that HIF-1α plays an essential role in the maintenance of adult NSCs and stabilization of the SVZ vascular niche using conditional, tamoxifen-inducible Hif1a knock-out mice. We generated nestin-CreER T2 /R26R-YFP/ Hif1a fl/fl triple transgenic mice, to enable tamoxifen-inducible Hif1a gene inactivation in nestin-expressing NSCs within the adult SVZ. Hif1a gene deletion resulted in a significant loss of YFP + NSCs within the SVZ by 45 d post recombination, which was preceded by significant regression of the SVZ vasculature at 14 d, and concomitant decrease of VEGF expression by NSCs. Loss of YFP + NSCs following Hif1a gene inactivation in vivo was likely an indirect consequence of vascular regression, since YFP + neurosphere formation over serial passage was unaffected. These results identify NSC-encoded HIF-1α as an essential factor in the maintenance of the adult SVZ, and demonstrate that NSCs within the SVZ maintain the integrity of their vascular niche through HIF-1α-mediated signaling mechanisms.
Determination of optical wavefronts perturbed by random fluctuations of the index refraction

A method is presented by which the random amplitude and phase at any particular point of a wavefront may be determined. The only information needed is the electrical output of a detector the excitations of which is due to the integration of the incoming and a reference wave. The reference wave is the result of a point source. >
Dynamical properties of plane polynomial automorphisms

This note studies the dynamical behavior of polynomial mappings with polynomial inverse from the real or complex plane to itself.
Elevated temperature compressive steady state deformation and failure in the oxide dispersion strengthened alloy MA 6000E

A study of the compressive flow strength-strain rate behavior of the oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) alloy MA 6000E has been conducted between 1144 and 1366 K. Specimens taken in the longitudinal, long transverse, and short transverse bar directions were tested at strain rates ranging from 2.1 × 10−5 s−1 to 2.1 × 10−7 s−1. The inherent compressive strength of MA 6000E was essentially independent of orientation. Testing at the higher temperatures and slower strain rates produced large scale cracking. Such cracks formed and propagated in bands in which slip had dissolved and redistributed the γ’ precipitates. Steady state deformation could be described through use of a threshold stress model of creep where threshold stresses were calculated as functions of temperature and orientation from the relatively fast flow stress-strain rate data and the assumption that the effective stress exponent was 3.5.
On neural substrates of cognition: Theory, experiments and application in brain computer interfaces

Recent experiments with high-resolution brain imaging techniques provide an amazing view on the complex spatio-temporal dynamics of cortical processes. There is ample of evidence pointing to frequent transitions between periods of large-scale synchronization and intermittent desynchronization at alpha-theta rates (period length of 0.1 s to 0.25s). These observations have been interpreted based on the cinematic model of cognitive processing. In the corresponding mathematical theories, brains are perceived as open thermodynamic systems converting noisy sensory data into meaningful knowledge. We employ a graph-theoretic model called neuropercolation, which extends the concept of phase transitions to large interactive populations of nerve cells. We show that normal brains operate at the edge of criticality, where phase transitions are manifested via intermittent phase synchronization. Cortical phase transitions are viewed as neural correlates of cognition and serve as basis for non-invasive cognitive monitoring using novel brain-computer interfaces.
Adenosine Formation and Release by Embryonic Chick Neurons and Glia in Cell Culture

Adenosine formation and release were studied in 48-h-old cultured ciliary ganglia and confluent peripheral and CNS glial cultures from embryonic chicks. Metabolic poisoning induced by 30 mM 2-deoxyglucose and 2 micrograms/ml oligomycin reduced ATP concentration by 90%. An increase in adenosine accounted for 15-40% of the fall in ATP. Dilazep (3 X 10(-6) M), a nucleoside transport inhibitor, decreased both incorporation of adenosine (an index of nucleoside transport) and release of adenosine by 80-90%. Dilazep trapped the newly formed adenosine intracellularly. A concentration of alpha, beta-methylene ADP that inhibited ecto-5'-nucleotidase by 80-90% did not alter the concentration of adenosine or AMP in neurons, glia, or medium. The results demonstrate that adenosine is formed intracellularly and exported out of the cell via the nucleoside transporter. The participation of ecto-5'-nucleotidase was excluded.
Reinfection with Anaplasma phagocytophilum in BALB/c Mice and Cross-Protection between Two Sympatric Isolates

Infection with Anaplasma phagocytophilum in white-footed mice results in partial protection against reinfection with the same agent. However, humans and domestic animals may be sequentially exposed to different isolates of the agent circulating in the same or adjacent foci. We investigated whether immune response to a tick-borne infection with A. phagocytophilum provides protection against homologous and heterologous challenges. BALB/c mice were infected with one of the two sympatric isolates of A. phagocytophilum via tick bite and challenged 16 weeks later by Ixodes scapularis nymphs infected with either the same or the alternative isolate. As controls, groups of infected mice were challenged by uninfected ticks to confirm an absence of reactivation of the original infection or groups of naive mice were fed upon by ticks from cohorts used for an infectious challenge. Xenodiagnostic I. scapularis larvae were fed upon each mouse at 14 and 21 days postchallenge (PCH) and tested for the presence of A. phagocytophilum as freshly molted nymphs. Blood samples for quantitative PCR were collected at 7, 14, 21, and 70 days PCH. Serum samples were collected weekly to monitor development of immune response. The proportion of infected animals, levels of bacteremia, and the prevalence of infection in xenodiagnostic ticks were higher in groups of control mice exposed to A. phagocytophilum for the first time than in mice reinfected with either homologous or heterologous isolates. The presence of antibodies against A. phagocytophilum did not protect mice from a challenge with either homologous or heterologous isolates, however the ensuing reinfection was significantly milder and of a shorter duration than the first infection with either isolate.