cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A note on plating efficiency in fluctuation experiments.

In estimating mutation rates using the Luria-Delbruck experimental protocol, it is often assumed that all mutant cells survive the plating procedure to form visible mutant colonies. This assumption of perfect plating efficiency may not hold in certain circumstances, but none of the existing estimation methods that adjust for plating efficiency is strictly based on the likelihood principle. To ameliorate this situation, we propose likelihood based algorithms for computing point and interval estimates of mutation rates.
Characteristics of optimal workload allocation for closed queueing networks

Abstract We consider the problem of allocating a given workload among the stations in a multi-server product-form closed queueing network to maximize the throughput. We first investigate properties of the throughput function and prove that it is pseudoconcave for some special cases. Some other characteristics of the optimal workload and its physical interpretation are also provided. We then develop two computational procedures to find the optimum workload allocation under the assumption that the throughput function is pseudoconcave in general. The primary advantage of assuming pseudoconcavity is that, under this assumption, satisfaction of first order necessary conditions is sufficient for optimality. Computational experience with these algorithms provides additional support for the validity of this assumption. Finally, we generalize the solution procedure to accommodate bounds on the workloads at each station.
Tillage and Cattle Grazing Effects on Soil Properties and Grain Yields in a Dryland Wheat–Sorghum–Fallow Rotation

Cattle (Bos taurus) grazing intensifies production of the dryland wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)-sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]-fallow (WSF) rotation in the U.S. Southern High Plains. Stubble-mulch (SM) tillage controls weeds and counteracts soil compaction. No-till (NT) increases soil water at planting and dryland crop yields, but added grazing effects are unknown. Our objectives were to quantify dryland winter wheat and sorghum yield responses to grazing and tillage practices. At the USDA-ARS Conservation and Production Research Laboratory, Bushland, TX, we established all WSF rotation phases in triplicate ungrazed and grazed paddocks beginning 1999 on a Pullman clay loam (fine, mixed, superactive, thermic Torrertic Paleustoll) using SM tillage. During spring 2004, NT or SM tillage were superimposed within grazing main plots. Cattle gain, soil water after fallow, and crop yield were compared during 2005 to 2009 using a split-plot randomized complete block design. Cattle, stocked at 1.8 Mg ha -1 , grazed sorghum stover and growing wheat an average of 29 d for a mean gain of 147 kg ha -1 . Soil water at plantingwas unaffected by grazing, but increased from 14 to 28 mm with NT. Although grazing seldom reduced yield of wheat or sorghum, NT in ungrazed plots increased crop yields sufficiently (0.96-2.6 Mg ha -1 ) in 2008 and 2009 to offset any value added by grazing. We conclude that cumulative grazing effects in NT plots reduced soil water storage and depressed yield. We recommend post-wheat-harvest SM tillage to disrupt soil compaction and restore grazed soil productivity.
Rhythmic sensitization of nematocyst discharge in response to vibrational stimuli.

Sea anemones capture prey by discharging nematocysts and other cnidae. Discharge of microbasic p-mastigophore (mpm) nematocysts is regulated in part by hair bundle mechanoreceptors on tentacles arising from multicellular complexes consisting of supporting cells and a sensory neuron. Anemone hair bundles detect movements of prey and then sensitize cnidocytes (cnida-containing cells) to discharge mpm nematocysts in response to contact between the prey and tentacle. Data from a simple bioassay based on counting nematocysts discharged into test probes, indicate that approximately twice as many nematocysts discharge into test probes touched to tentacles after sensitization than before sensitization. We here report that sub-second bursts of vibrational stimuli at key frequencies (51, 55, 65, or 74 Hz; Watson GM, Mire P, Hudson RR. 1998. J Exp Zool 281:582–593) sensitize discharge for at least 90 sec. Very few complete cycles of vibration are sufficient to sensitize discharge. However, as the number of cycles of vibration is increased, discharge is sensitized in rhythmic patterns. Computer analysis of the data by fast Fourier transforms indicates discharge to vibrations at 65 Hz is sensitized every 6.75 cycles. At 51 Hz discharge is sensitized every 2.00 cycles. At 74 Hz, discharge is sensitized in a polyrhythm occurring every 4.26, 3.76, 2.46, and 2.10 cycles, respectively. At 55 Hz, discharge is sensitized in a polyrhythm occurring every 6.09, 3.20, 2.91, and 2.0 cycles, respectively. Apparently, cells in the neuronal pathway interconnecting anemone hair bundles with cnidocytes count cycles of vibration and then sensitize discharge or not according to the tally. J. Exp. Zool. 286:262–269, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Photolabile Ruthenium Nitrosyls with Planar Dicarboxamide Tetradentate N4 Ligands: Effects of In-Plane and Axial Ligand Strength on NO Release

Four ruthenium nitrosyls, namely [(bpb)Ru(NO)(Cl)] (1), [(Me2bpb)Ru(NO)(Cl)] (2), [(Me2bpb)Ru(NO)(py)](BF4) (3), and [(Me2bqb)Ru(NO)(Cl)] (4) (H2bpb = 1,2-bis(pyridine-2-carboxamido)benzene, H2Me2bpb = 1,2-bis(pyridine-2-carboxamido)-4,5-dimethylbenzene, H2Me2bqb = 1,2-bis(quinaldine-2-carboxamido)-4,5-dimethylbenzene; H is the dissociable amide proton), have been synthesized and characterized by spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. All four complexes exhibit νNO in the range 1830−1870 cm-1 indicating the {Ru−NO}6 configuration. Clean 1H NMR spectra in CD3CN (or (CD3)2SO) confirm the S = 0 ground state for all four complexes. Although the complexes are thermally stable, they release NO upon illumination. Rapid NO dissociation occurs when solutions of 1−3 in acetonitrile (MeCN) or DMF are exposed to low-intensity (7 mW) UV light (λmax = 302 nm). Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra of the photolyzed solutions display anisotropic signals at g ≈ 2.00 that confirm the formation of solvated lo...
Comparison of Dirac and Schrödinger descriptions of spin observables for proton-nucleus elastic scattering at 650 and 800 MeV

We compute the analyzing power, ${\mathit{A}}_{\mathit{y}}$, and spin rotation, Q, for proton elastic scattering at 650 and 800 meV from target nuclei $^{16}\mathrm{O}$, $^{40}\mathrm{Ca}$, and $^{208}\mathrm{Pb}$, using both nonrelativistic multiple-scattering theory and a relativistic impulse approximation model. We show that the nonrelativistic theory, based on the Schr\"odinger equation with relativistic kinematics, and the relativistic model, based on the Dirac equation, provide very similar and equally good descriptions of these spin observables when electromagnetic spin-orbit contributions are included in both approaches. The nonrelativistic model calculations include contributions from nuclear medium effects (Pauli blocking and binding energy corrections) and also target nucleon two-body correlations. Medium effects and correlations are not expected to be significant in the relativistic model based on the Dirac equation, and were not included.
Regional and Interregional Interdependencies: Alternative Accounting Systems

Increasing interest in the changing degree of interrelatedness within the industrial system and between the industrial system and the rest of the economy has given rise to the need for alternative accounting frameworks. This paper explores a number of these alternatives, and focuses in particular on social accounting systems, modified input-output frameworks, and micro-to-macro linkage systems.
Public administration and political science as key elements in policy analysis

Policy evaluation has emphasized the pretest-posttest models of social-psychology and the optimizing models of economics and operations research. There may, however, be a need for showing more concern for the political feasibility problems studied by political scientists, as illustrated by the fields of pollution, tariff, and farm-support policy. There many also be a need for showing more concern for the problemsf of alternative public asminstrative systems, as illustrated by the fields of housing and welfare policy.
Overburden Characterization as Topsoil Replacement at Jewett and Other Texas Lignite Mines—Texture and pH Indicators

Evaluation of the suitability of overburden as topsoil replacement material at the Jewett Lignite mine was conducted with an emphasis on the textural criteria and geochemical parameters. Attempts were made to determine the relationships between geologic units and their chemical properties, especially the parameters that are indicative of their suitability for use as topsoil replacement materials. These parameters included pH values, texture and elemental composition. Little workable correlation was found to predict the usefulness of overburden as topsoil replacement material. The only exception was a massive coarse to medium channel-fill sand that was found within the Calvert Bluff and Carrizo formations. This channel sand had somewhat consistent pH values. For this geologic unit only, the environment of deposition can be used as a predictive and planning tool to locate suitable topsoil replacement material in the Jewett Lignite mine. Comparing the results of similar studies in other mines within the same geological setting in Texas leads one to accept textural and geochemical variability as the rule. However, the channel-fill sand bodies are present throughout this lignite belt and maintain consistency in geochemical properties which are acceptable by the regulating guidelines. The high sand content can be corrected by mixing silt andmore » clay present within the sand bodies. It is recommended that by choosing this sediment unit as the topsoil replacement material in these mines, the reclamation process can be made more efficient and cost effective.« less
Row Arrangement, Phosphorus Fertility, and Hybrid Contributions to Managing Increased Plant Density of Maize

Published in Agron. J. 106:1838–1846 (2014) doi:10.2134/agronj2013.0382 Available freely online through the author-supported open access option. Copyright © 2014 by the American Society of Agronomy, 5585 Guilford Road, Madison, WI 53711. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. ABSTRACT Inter-plant competition must be carefully managed to realize the yield potential of increased plant density of maize (Zea mays L.). Twin row planting arrangement, P fertility, and hybrid selection may be important components of managing increased plant density. Our hypotheses were (i) that twin row planting arrangement would be superior to traditional 0.76-m rows at ultra-high densities and (ii) that supplemental P fertility would alleviate inter-plant competition. In 2010 and 2011, twin row planting arrangement was compared to single 0.76-m rows across densities ranging from 61,775 to 160,615 plants ha–1 and P fertility treatments ranging from 0 to 168 kg P2O5 ha –1. Twin rows did not increase yield relative to single rows, and twin rows o en yielded signi cantly less at plant densities greater than 111,195 plants ha–1. Mean responses to supplemental fertility were 1.0 and 0.3 Mg ha–1 in 2010 and 2011, respectively. ere was no interaction between plant density and P fertility suggesting that extra resource availability does not necessarily overcome inter-plant competition. In 2011, two hybrids of contrasting ear type were included to explore the role of hybrid selection in plant density response. Maximum yields of each hybrid were achieved at contrasting densities, and genetic di erences in plant density tolerance appeared to be related to (i) kernel number response on a per-area basis and (ii) stability of individual kernel weight. ese results highlight the importance of independently optimizing row spacing and soil fertility while understanding the plant density response characteristics of maize hybrids.
Neural control of ventilatory movements in the aquatic insectCorydalus cornutus: the motor pattern

1. Ventilation in the dobsonfly larvaCorydalus cornutus consists of rhythmic retraction and protraction of seven pairs of abdominal tracheal gills at variable rates up to 120/min. Movement usually begins with segment 3, and activity spreads both posteriorly, with a short (8–40 ms) delay between segments 3 and 4, and anteriorly, with a longer delay (75–150 ms) between 3 and 2. Gill retraction is produced by a single power-stroke muscle which is excited by one motoneuron during ventilation. Several muscles participate in protraction. 2. The ventilatory motor pattern consists of alternating short-duration bursts of the gill retractor motoneuron and long-duration bursts of gill protractor motoneurons. Both retractor and protractor motoneurons often fire in decelerating bursts, but interspike intervals of protractor neurons are long (40–130 ms) compared to those of the retractor neuron (8–16 ms). At high ventilatory frequencies (> 54 beats/min), decreases in cycle-time are correlated with decreases in burst lengths and interspike intervals of both retractor and protractor motoneurons. At lower ventilatory frequencies, retractor burst lengths become constant, and protractor motoneurons sometimes cease firing. 3. Both abdominal ganglia 2 and 3 can produce rhythmic bursts of ventilatory motor output when either ganglion is isolated from other ganglia and from afferent input; ganglion 3 has the highest intrinsic frequency and is thought to contain the dominant central pattern generator. 4. Two types of spiking interneurons were found that influenced the ventilatory motor pattern when stimulated intracellularly. One type, the R cell, results in excitation of the retractor motoneuron and inhibition of protractor motoneurons. Excitation of the other type, the P cell, results in inhibition of the retractor motoneuron, but has no effect on the output of protractor motoneurons.
High-temperature compression behavior of Mo–Si–B alloys

Abstract The compression behavior of a two-phase (Mo solid solution + T2) Mo–6.1Si–7.9B (at.%) alloy is examined as a function of strain rate in the 1000–1400 °C range and compared to that of commercially available powder-metallurgy-processed TZM (often referred to as MT104). A limited number of tests was also conducted on a three phase alloy with a composition of Mo–8.6Si–8.7B (at.%) that lies in the three phase field, Mo solid solution + T2 + Mo 3 Si. These compression studies confirmed that deformation in the temperature-strain rate space evaluated is matrix-controlled, yielding an activation energy of ∼415–445 kJ/mol. As a consequence, the response of the three-phase material overlaps that of the two-phase material. In all instances evaluated, the Mo–Si–B alloys exhibit superior flow stress relative to their TZM counterpart. Examination of the deformed microstructure illustrates that recovery and in some instances, recrystallization occurs in the Mo solid solution matrix whereas the T2 phase either cracks or deforms plastically depending on the temperature and strain rate used. Finite element analysis assuming an elastic–plastic matrix and an elastic second-phase illustrates strain localization in the matrix, the extent being more severe when the work-hardening rate in the matrix decreases (i.e., increasing temperature and decreasing strain rate), while the T2 particles are highly stressed. However, if plastic deformation is permitted in the T2 particles, strain distribution is homogenized substantially and the level of stress build up in the T2 particles diminishes by an order of magnitude. The interplay between matrix and T2 properties and their dependence on temperature and strain rate are used to explain the observed deformed microstructure.
Reforming electricity rates: Benefits to low-income households

The electricity rate reforms proposed in the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act reflect the quest for an energy policy which encourages conservation, efficiency, and equity. Focusing on equity concerns, this research examines the relative effectiveness of lifeline and time-of-day rates in easing the burden of rising household energy prices among the low-income population. Lifeline rates establish a minimum number of kilowatt hours (kWh) required for basic necessities and a special low rate for these kWh. Time-of-day rates provide lower electricity prices to those households using electricity during off-peak generating hours. The data indicate that lifeline rates would assist low-income households in general, with the greatest benefits going to poor households with small numbers of members and older heads of household. Time-of-day rates would immediately benefit smaller households and those with older household heads. Some lifestyle changes, in the form of appliance use patterns, would be required among the low-income population if they are to benefit from time-of-day rates.
Dexamethasone treatment reduces astroglia responses to inserted neuroprosthetic devices in rat neocortex.

Abstract Microfabricated neural prosthetic devices hold great potential for increasing knowledge of brain function and treating patients with lost CNS function. Time-dependent loss of brain-device communication limits long-term use of these devices. Lost CNS function is associated with reactive responses that produce an encapsulating cellular sheath. Since early reactive responses may be associated with injuries produced at the time of device insertion, for example, vascular damage and disruption of the blood–brain barrier, we tested the effectiveness of the synthetic glucocorticoid, dexamethasone, in controlling insertion- and device-associated reactive responses. Dexamethasone (200 μg/kg) was administered as subcutaneous injections for 1 or 6 days beginning on the day of device insertion. Single shank microfabricated silicon devices were inserted into pre-motor cortex of adult rats. Reactive responses were assessed by immunohistochemistry for glial fibrillary acidic protein (astrocytes), CD11b (microglia), and laminin that labeled extracellular protein deposited around the insertion site and in association with vascular elements. Data were collected by confocal microscopy imaging of 100-μm-thick tissue slices. Reactive responses in vehicle control animals were similar to non-injected control animals. Dexamethasone treatment profoundly effected early and sustained reactive responses observed 1 and 6 weeks following device insertion, respectively. Dexamethasone treatment greatly attenuated astroglia responses, while microglia and vascular responses appeared to be increased. The 6-day treatment was more effective than the single injection regime. These results suggest that anti-inflammatory agents can be used to control reactive responses around inserted neural prosthetic devices and may provide a means to insure their long-term function.
STACKING SEARCHES FOR GAMMA-RAY EMISSION ABOVE 100 MeV FROM RADIO AND SEYFERT GALAXIES

The EGRET telescope on board Compton Gamma Ray Observatory detected more than 60 sources of high-energy gamma radiation associated with active galactic nuclei (AGNs). All but one of those belong to the blazar subclass; the only exception is the nearby radio galaxy Centaurus A. Since there is no obvious reason other than proximity to expect Cen A to be the only nonblazar AGN emitting in high-energy gamma rays, we have utilized the "stacking" technique to search for emission above 100 MeV from two nonblazar AGN subclasses, radio galaxies and Seyfert galaxies. Maps of gamma-ray counts, exposure, and diffuse background have been created, then co-added in varying numbers based on sorts by redshift, 5 GHz flux density, and optical brightness, and finally tested for gamma-ray emission. No detection significance greater than 2 σ has been found for any subclass, sorting parameter, or number of objects co-added. Monte Carlo simulations have also been performed to validate the technique and estimate the significance of the results.
Noncontiguous presence during treatment sessions of relaxation and imaginal aversive stimuli: A reply to Nawas, Mealiea, & Fishman

The validity of the objections by Nawas, Mealiea, and Fishman (1971) of an earlier study by this author ( Davison, 1968 ) is questioned. Their “Non-contiguous Systematic Desensitization” condition (NSD) is said to have provided a control lacking in the earlier experiment by arranging for the presence of both relaxation and imaginal aversive stimuli in each session —but unpaired; the present writer suggests that additional data are needed to demonstrate either lack of pairing or the presence of both elements in each session. Nawas et al. also compared their various control conditions with “Scheduled Systematic Desensitization” (SSD); since progress up the hierarchy via SSD is not contingent on the absence of a subject's anxietysignals, we suggest that this variant of Wolpe's technique—albeit demonstrably effective (even when compared with appropriate placebo conditions) —is not a valid procedure with which to ask process-questions regarding counterconditioning. These and other questions lead this writer to see little validity in the criticisms of Nawas et al. and, further, little light being shed on the issue of why systematic desensitization works.
Revisiting the Monoamine Hypothesis of Depression: A New Perspective

As the incidence of depression increases, depression continues to inflict additional suffering to individuals and societies and better therapies are needed. Based on magnetic resonance spectroscopy and laboratory findings, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) may be intimately involved in the pathophysiology of depression. The isoelectric point of GABA (pI = 7.3) closely approximates the pH of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). This may not be a trivial observation as it may explain preliminary spectrophotometric, enzymatic, and HPLC data that monoamine oxidase (MAO) deaminates GABA. Although MAO is known to deaminate substrates such as catecholamines, indoleamines, and long chain aliphatic amines all of which contain a lipophilic moiety, there is very good evidence to predict that a low concentration of a very lipophilic microspecies of GABA is present when GABA pI = pH as in the CSF. Inhibiting deamination of this microspecies of GABA could explain the well-established successful treatment of refractory depression with MAO inhibitors (MAOI) when other antidepressants that target exclusively levels of monoamines fail. If further experimental work can confirm these preliminary findings, physicians may consider revisiting the use of MAOI for the treatment of non-intractable depression because the potential benefits of increasing GABA as well as the monoamines may outweigh the risks associated with MAOI therapy.
A novel method for assessing in vitro oncology drug combinations using growth rates.

We propose a new method that allows screening oncology drug combinations using data from in vitro studies to select agents that have the promise of showing a synergistic effect in vivo. In contrast to known approaches that define combination effects either on the concentration scale or on the percent inhibition scale, we use the growth rate of treated cells as a primary indicator of treatment activity. The developed method is based on a novel statistical model that describes the growth of cancer cells that are subject to treatment with a combination of compounds. The model assumes a multicompartment cell population with transition rates between compartments modeled according to biochemical reaction properties, and cells in each compartment growing according to exponential law. This translates to a linear system of ordinary differential equations, whose solution is accurately approximated by a closed-form expression using rapid equilibrium assumptions. Special cases of the aforementioned model represent si...
“In for the Long Haul”: Responses of Parents Caring for Children With Sturge-Weber Syndrome:

This descriptive study explores from a family perspective the positive and negative reactions of parents caring for children with Sturge-Weber Syndrome, a rare, progressive, congenital disease. The study, using three standardized instruments, considers perceptions of family functioning and the degree of the children’s independence. In addition, parental perceptions of their children’s disease, their stressors, and their unique caregiving roles were elicited through four open-ended items. A total of 125 primary care-givers and 89 secondary caregivers returned mailed questionnaires, of which 539 were mailed; their responses are reported and discussed within the perspective of the caregiver literature. Quantitative and qualitative data were triangulated for a more extensive picture of parental caregiver reaction. The findings contribute to knowledge on the manner in which families manage the challenges of a chronically ill child’s care and implications for ways nurses can help families achieve optimal family...
Preparation and photocatalytic properties of hybrid core–shell reusable CoFe2O4–ZnO nanospheres

Abstract Magnetically separable and reusable core–shell CoFe2O4–ZnO photocatalyst nanospheres were prepared by the hydrothermal synthesis technique using glucose derived carbon nanospheres as the template. The morphology and the phase of core–shell hybrid structure of CoFe2O4–ZnO were assessed via TEM, SEM and XRD. The magnetic composite showed high UV photocatalytic activity for the degradation of methylene blue in water. The photocatalytic activity was found to be ZnO shell thickness dependent. Thicker ZnO shells lead to higher rate of photocatalytic activity. Hybrid nanospheres recovered using an external magnetic field demonstrated good repeatability of photocatalytic activity. These results promise the reusability of the hybrid nanospheres for photocatalytic activity.
A series of approximation algorithms for the acyclic directed steiner tree problem

Given an acyclic directed network, a subsetS of nodes (terminals), and a rootr, theacyclic directed Steiner tree problem requires a minimum-cost subnetwork which contains paths fromr to each terminal. It is known that unlessNP⊆DTIME[npolylogn] no polynomial-time algorithm can guarantee better than (lnk)/4-approximation, wherek is the number of terminals. In this paper we give anO(kź)-approximation algorithm for any ź>0. This result improves the previously knownk-approximation.
The effect of emotional arousal and retention delay on subsequent-memory effects

Memory for emotional experiences often persists longer than memory for neutral experiences. The present study examined how encoding processes influence memory retention across 0.5- or 24-h delays and whether these processes differ between emotionally arousing and neutral information. Participants encoded items during an fMRI scan. Immediately following the scan, and again 24-h later, participants performed a recognition memory test. The results revealed that, for emotionally arousing information, most regions showed a correspondence to subsequent-memory performance that was at least as strong after the long delay as it was after the short delay. For neutral items, by contrast, many more regions, including portions of the hippocampus and lateral prefrontal cortex, showed a stronger correspondence to subsequent-memory performance after the short delay than the long delay. These results suggest that the processes engaged at the moment of encoding have a longer-lasting relation to subsequent memory for emotionally arousing information than for neutral information.
Establishment of a Near-Tetraploid B-Cell Lymphoma Line with Duplication of the 8;14 Translocation

Abstract The neoplastic cells of a patient with diffuse histiocytic lymphoma were grown in three systems: Soft agar, liquid culture, and by heterotransplantation into the nude mouse. In each case, the growing cells were shown to bear the same immunoglobulin heavy and light chain type as the original neoplastic cells (IgM-λ). In both the liquid culture and nude mouse heterotransplant tumors, karyotypic analysis revealed the presence of pseudodiploid and near-tetraploid metaphases bearing one and two copies of an 8;14 translocation, respectively. From the liquid culture separate clones of pseudodiploid and near-tetraploid cells were isolated in soft agar, and separate cell lines SK-DHL2A and SK-DHL2B were established. Studies comparing the proliferative characteristics of the two lines showed no difference in cell population doubling time or clonigenicity in soft agar. Hence, the presence of two copies of the translocated material did not confer a proliferative advantage on cells containing it. Theses lines may be valuable in future studies of cell proliferation and oncogenesis in the human immune system.
Discrimination of the number of sequential events by rats

Ten rats were trained to press a right lever following two successive sounds and to press a left lever following four successive sounds. Three sound sequences were used in initial discrimination training, such that reliable classification could not be based on the duration of each sound, the interval between sounds, or the total duration of the sound sequence. Classification of seven novel sound sequences suggested that the animals were either using number or the sum of sound durations in a sequence as the relevant cue. When this total sound duration was put in conflict with number, rats classified by number. The conclusion was that rats can discriminate number, even when temporal cues are controlled.
Development, reliability, and validity of a child dissociation scale

Dissociation is a complex psychophysiological process that ranges along a continuum from minor, normal dissociation to Axis I psychopathology. High levels of dissociation are associated with increased self-destructive behaviors and other symptoms. Although several validated measures of dissociation exist for adults, no measures are available for children. The Child Dissociative Checklist (CDC) was developed to meet this need and is a reliable and valid observer report measure of dissociation in children. The CDC had a 1-year test-retest reliability coefficient of rho = .69 (N = 73, p = .0001) in a sample of normal and sexually abused girls. The CDC had high discriminant validity among four test samples including: normal control girls, sexually abused girls, boys and girls with dissociative disorder NOS and boys and girls with multiple personality disorder. The CDC is intended as a clinical screening instrument and as a research measure. The CDC is not designed to be used as a diagnostic instrument.
Convex optimization techniques in system identification

Abstract In recent years there has been growing interest in convex optimization techniques for system identification and time series modeling. This interest is motivated by the success of convex methods for sparse optimization and rank minimization in signal processing, statistics, and machine learning, and by the development of new classes of algorithms for large-scale nondifferentiable convex optimization.
Trivariate solid T-spline construction from boundary triangulations with arbitrary genus topology

A comprehensive scheme is described to construct rational trivariate solid T-splines from boundary triangulations with arbitrary topology. To extract the topology of the input geometry, we first compute a smooth harmonic scalar field defined over the mesh, and saddle points are extracted to determine the topology. By dealing with the saddle points, a polycube whose topology is equivalent to the input geometry is built, and it serves as the parametric domain for the trivariate T-spline. A polycube mapping is then used to build a one-to-one correspondence between the input triangulation and the polycube boundary. After that, we choose the deformed octree subdivision of the polycube as the initial T-mesh, and make it valid through pillowing, quality improvement and applying templates to handle extraordinary nodes and partial extraordinary nodes. The T-spline that is obtained is C^2-continuous everywhere over the boundary surface except for the local region surrounding polycube corner nodes. The efficiency and robustness of the presented technique are demonstrated with several applications in isogeometric analysis.
Decomposition of multipath Lamb waves with sparse wavenumber analysis for structural health monitoring

Guided waves, such as Lamb waves, are attractive tools for monitoring large civil infrastructures due to their sensitivity to damage. Yet, interpreting guided wave data and identifying effects resulting from damage is often complicated by the multimodal and dispersive characteristics of guided waves and multipath interference from the medium's boundaries. In this paper, we present a method to decompose guided waves into a collection of multipath arrivals by combining sparse wavenumber analysis, a methodology for accurately recovering multimodal and dispersive properties, with additional l1 minimization techniques. Its application to experimental Lamb wave data shows that the estimates all correspond to expected paths.
Distinct roles for β-arrestin2 and arrestin-domain-containing proteins in β2 adrenergic receptor trafficking

β-arrestin 1 and 2 (also known as arrestin 2 and 3) are homologous adaptor proteins that regulate seven-transmembrane receptor trafficking and signalling. Other proteins with predicted 'arrestin-like' structural domains but lacking sequence homology have been indicated to function like β-arrestin in receptor regulation. We demonstrate that β-arrestin2 is the primary adaptor that rapidly binds agonist-activated β(2) adrenergic receptors (β(2)ARs) and promotes clathrin-dependent internalization, E3 ligase Nedd4 recruitment and ubiquitin-dependent lysosomal degradation of the receptor. The arrestin-domain-containing (ARRDC) proteins 2, 3 and 4 are secondary adaptors recruited to internalized β(2)AR-Nedd4 complexes on endosomes and do not affect the adaptor roles of β-arrestin2. Rather, the role of ARRDC proteins is to traffic Nedd4-β(2)AR complexes to a subpopulation of early endosomes.
An ultrasensitive chemical test for quantitative chromatography of sugars

Abstract The ferricyanide test, which was originally developed for the determination of blood sugar, was applied to 17 other sugars in addition to glucose. Although sensitivity differed, all free reducing sugars gave a positive test. Substances without a free reducing group (inositol, glucose-1-phosphate, and sucrose) did not react. Acetaldehyde also failed to giv a positive test. Deoxy sugars and phosphorylated sugars gave less color than free sugars with a full complement of hydroxy groups. Standard curves, prepared for 10 sugars, indicated that Beer's law is followed reasonably well. The presence of cellulose fibers in suspension did not interfere with the ferricyanide test. It was also possible to hydrolyze sucrose in 0.5N sulfuric acid without significant hydrolysis of cellulose fibers washed from filter paper. Adherence to Beer's law, freedom from interference by cellulose, and extreme sensitivity (0.01 μmole of sugar) are advantages which should m ake the modified ferricyanide test well suited for quantitative chromatography of many sugars.
501 CONTINUITY IN A PRIMARY CARE RESIDENCY

New Federal Regulations now require at least 25% continuity experience for housestaff participating in new federally supported 3 year Primary Care (PC) Training programs. A PC residency was established in 1973 at BCH to educate principally for inner city needs. Four cohorts of trainees (n=40) have entered training and one cohort (n=6) has completed training. The program is characterized by a psychosocial curriculum, integration of pediatric and internal medicine pathways, multidisciplinary faculty, and the use of multiple ambulatory sites. Continuity occupies 10% of year 1, either in hospital or neighborhood health center. Continuity increases to 20% for 1/2 of year 2 and is followed by a 6 month period of 30%. During year 3, 40% time is spent in continuity clinic following patients longitudinally as well as in selected specialty clinics. During continuity, residents provide care to an identified panel of families. Total continuity for the three year program is 26% meeting the federal requirement. A modified pairing system has been established to free housestaff for expanded educational and clinical experiences Small structural changes in scheduling without major change in the number of housestaff allowed the added continuity experiences These changes included giving up elective time during years 2 and 3 to meet both service and educational requirements. Continuity is an important feature of PC Training and achieving a 25% goal requires multiple strategies.
Viability of various solid and ascites tumors after prolonged storage at −78°C

Summary Thirty-seven mouse, rat, hamster, and chicken tumors were stored at −78°C (Dry Ice-alcohol chest) for from 1 to 7 years. Compared with the 1st year, the transplantability of the majority of the frozen ascitic and solid tumors decreased in varying amounts as the storage time increased. The percentage of growth of implants of frozen (7 years) and nonfrozen Friend virus leukemia and Rous chicken sarcoma was approximately the same. The viability of Ridgway osteogenic sarcoma and Wagner osteogenic sarcoma was practically destroyed by freezing at −78°C, which corroborates former findings. The sensitivity of nine tumors to nine standard compounds was similar whether the tumors had been frozen for 5 to 7 years or were nonfrozen.
Second derivative infrared spectra of hydroxyapatite

Abstract Infrared absorption spectra of polycrystalline fluor- and hydroxyapatite are transformed to their second derivatives for resolution enhancement. It is observed that although the symmetry of the hydroxyapatite lattice is lower than that of fluorapatite, the spectra are nearly congruent. The data of polycrystalline samples are analysed on the basis of single crystal Raman and infrared dichroism spectra. The number of vibrational bands that are observed in the spectra of polycrystalline fluor- and hydroxyapatite exceed the number predicted by factor group analysis. The “excess” bands are assigned to vibrations that are expected to be Raman active previously reported in the single crystal Raman data of these two minerals. This can be accounted for by a breakdown of factor group selection rules as applied to the infrared data of polycrystalline apatites.
Comparability of the external vs internal location of radiation in inhibiting neointimal hyperplasia.

Abstract Purpose. One of the most controversial issues in utilizing radiation to inhibit restenosis is the importance of the location of the radiation source. The experimental results from using external forms of radiation have been contradictory and conflicting. In this study, we undertook to externally place a brachytherapy catheter source and to determine if a dose–response effect could be observed, as has been demonstrated with endovascular locations. Materials and Methods. Neointimal hyperplasia was created in a rat carotid artery model by a balloon catheter technique. Immediately following injury, treatment groups received irradiation via an externally located high-dose rate (HDR) 192 Ir brachytherapy catheter. This system allows for a more uniform dose delivery compared with endovascular radiation sources. Radiation was delivered to a 2-cm length of the injured vessel at doses of 5, 10, or 15 Gy and the animals were sacrificed at various time points following treatment (24 h to 6 months). Serial sections of tissue were stained immunohistochemically with primary antibodies for CD11b, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and α -smooth muscle actin. Results. Radiation doses of 5, 10, and 15 Gy inhibited the appearance of neointimal hyperplasia in a dose- and time-dependent manner. That is, doses of 5–15 Gy allowed for varying degrees of neointimal hyperplasia at 3 weeks posttreatment, with a greater resurgence of monocyte/macrophage activity at 5 Gy than at 10 or 15 Gy, where an absence of macrophage activity and PDGF expression was noted. From 2 to 6 months, the 10 and 15 Gy doses were again more suppressive of neointimal hyperplasia than 5 Gy, and at 6 months posttreatment the doses were approximately 25% and 50% effective, respectively. Conclusions. The demonstrated effectiveness of external brachytherapy provides "proof of principle," that it is the radiation dose delivered to the arterial wall, and not the location of the source, which is critical to a successful outcome. Ablation of the resident monocyte/macrophage population (or prevention of their activation) occurs with low to moderate doses of irradiation, leading to the absence of a cytokine cascade as evidenced by a lack of PDGF expression. A favorable therapeutic ratio exists, therefore, for radiation treatment of the arterial vasculature to prevent neointimal hyperplasia postangioplasty.
Chantal Akerman by Marion Schmid. Manchester, UK: Manchester University Press, 2010

Over four decades, Chantal Akerman has authored a diverse and influential filmography. She has written, directed, and sometimes starred in experimental documentaries, minimalist fiction films, burl...
1592 NEURODEVELOPMENTAL FOLLOW-UP OF VLBW NEONATES: EFFECTS OF GMH/IVH

During a 12-month period, our NICU admitted 65 VLBW neonates (BW <1250 g) who survived longer than 36 hr. CT scans and/or postmortem examination were performed on 62 (95%). CT scanning revealed germinal-matrix and/or intraventricular hemorrhage (GMH/IVH) in 27 of the 62 (43.5%), and GMH/IVH was found at postmortem in 7 others (11.3%), yielding a total incidence of 54.8%. There were no significant differences in the BW, GA, Apgars, sex, or mode of resuscitation in the survivors with or without GMH/IVH and in the deceased. No infants with Grades III or IV IVH survived. Of the 49 VLBW survivors, 32 (65%) have been followed with neurologic examinations and with the Bayley Scales of Infant Development at 3, 6, and 12 months corrected age. When the results for the survivors with and without IVH were compared at each age, no significant differences were found (see table). The incidence of major neurologic abnormalities was quite low and was similar for both groups. No infant with a Grade II IVH has required shunting for post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus. We conclude that a Grade I or II GMH/IVH appears to add little neurodevelopmental risk for the early development of the VLBW Infant.
Genomic structure of newly identified paralogue of RNA helicase II/Gu: Detection of pseudogenes and multiple alternatively spliced mRNAs

Abstract RNA helicase II/Gu (RH-II/Gu or DDX21) is a DEAD-box enzyme that localizes to the nucleoli and may be involved in ribosomal RNA synthesis or processing. It has two paralogues, RH-II/Guα and RH-II/Guβ, both genes of which are on chromosome 10. Their similar genomic structures suggest the two genes arose by gene duplication. Both genes are expressed at higher levels in some normal human tissues compared to matching tumor tissues. Pseudogenes for RH-II/Guβ exist on chromosomes 2, 3 and 4. No pseudogene was identified for RH-II/Guα. Both exon inclusion and exon skipping were found to post-transcriptionally regulate RH-II/Guβ gene expression. No alternative splicing was identified for RH-II/Guα. Overall, the results suggest that the two paralogues of RH-II/Gu arose by gene duplication but the resulting genes are differentially regulated.
Role of β2-adrenoceptor, M3 cholinoreceptor genes, and corticosteroids in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

In this issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, Selivanoca et al 1 suggest that the differential expressions of the 2adrenoceptor (ADRB2), M3 cholinoreceptor (CHRM3), and corticosteroids are associated with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and their response to treatment. 1 Increased levels of the ADRB2 gene were demonstrated in patients with severe asthma and COPD as compared with those having mild and moderate diseases. Higher levels of ADRB2 messenger RNA levels occurred in patients with severe asthma with persistent airflow limitation. Lower levels of CHRM3 occurred in patients with COPD as compared with asthma. The CHRM3 gene expression was more elevated in COPD patients with bronchial hyperresponsiveness than in those without. Many problems impede the diagnosis and therapy of these conditions and the resulting conclusions. These include definitions, pathogenesis, and the role of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. 2,3 The definitions of asthma and COPD are imprecise, with asthma having variable airflow obstruction, hyperinflammation, airway plugs, and eosinophilia and COPD having progressive deterioration of lung function and excessive mucus, macrophages, and neutrophils. Both diseases may be the extreme ends of a single condition. 3 Bron
The temporal dynamics of emotional acceptance: Experience, expression, and physiology

Abstract Emotional acceptance has begun to attract considerable attention from researchers and clinicians alike. It is not yet clear, however, what effects emotional acceptance has on early emotion response dynamics. To address this question, participants (N = 37) were shown emotional pictures and cued either to simply attend to them, or to accept or suppress their emotional responses. Continuous measures of emotion experience, expressive behavior, and autonomic responses were obtained. Results indicated that, compared to no regulation, acceptance led to more positive emotions, transiently enhanced expressivity, and lowered respiratory rate. Compared to suppression, acceptance led to more positive emotions, stronger expressivity, and smaller changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and pulse amplitude, as well as greater oxygenation. Acceptance and suppression thus have opposite effects on emotional response dynamics. Because acceptance enhances positive emotion experience and expression, this strategy may be particularly useful in facilitating social interactions.
Word-retrieval in aphasia: an investigation of semantic complexity.

Abstract Performance of aphasic subjects in adjective recognition and production tasks in which adjectives varied in semantic feature and markedness complexity was investigated. Twelve pairs of adjectives were examined in three experimental tasks; viz., picture recognition, antonym production, and sentence completion. Subjects were eight nonfluent and eight fluent aphasics. The results indicate significant differences in performance were dependent upon semantic features, markedness, experimental tasks, and type of aphasia. The discussion relates semantic complexity to cognitive processes.
Recent advances in alien gene transfer in wheat

The recent advances in alien gene transfer from distantly-related species into wheat are reviewed in the present paper. The main achievements during the last ten years include the great expansion of the range of wide hybridization and development of new techniques for production and characterization of wheat-alien chromosome translocations. Updated results of wide hybridization since 1983 and comprehensive characterization of wheat-alien translocation lines in our laboratory are compiled. The future outlook for alien gene transfer in wheat is also discussed.
High gain dielectric reflectarray antennas for THz applications

Dielectric reflectarray antennas are studied in this paper as a possible low-loss and low-cost solution for high gain THz antennas. Variable height dielectric slabs are proposed for the reflectarray elements which allow for the use of low dielectric-constant materials for the design. A 3-D printing technology is utilized to fabricate the antenna, and both numerical and experimental results are presented for a prototype operating at 100 GHz. This study shows that the proposed design approach is well suited for high gain THz antennas.