cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Separating higher-order nonlinearities in transient absorption microscopy

The transient absorption response of melanin is a promising optically-accessible biomarker for distinguishing malignant melanoma from benign pigmented lesions, as demonstrated by earlier experiments on thin sections from biopsied tissue. The technique has also been demonstrated in vivo, but the higher optical intensity required for detecting these signals from backscattered light introduces higher-order nonlinearities in the transient response of melanin. These components that are higher than linear with respect to the pump or the probe introduce intensity-dependent changes to the overall response that complicate data analysis. However, our data also suggest these nonlinearities might be advantageous to in vivo imaging, in that different types of melanins have different nonlinear responses. Therefore, methods to separate linear from nonlinear components in transient absorption measurements might provide additional information to aid in the diagnosis of melanoma. We will discuss numerical methods for analyzing the various nonlinear contributions to pump-probe signals, with the ultimate objective of real time analysis using digital signal processing techniques. To that end, we have replaced the lock-in amplifier in our pump-probe microscope with a high-speed data acquisition board, and reprogrammed the coprocessor field-programmable gate array (FPGA) to perform lock-in detection. The FPGA lock-in offers better performance than the commercial instrument, in terms of both signal to noise ratio and speed. In addition, the flexibility of the digital signal processing approach enables demodulation of more complicated waveforms, such as spread-spectrum sequences, which has the potential to accelerate microscopy methods that rely on slow relaxation phenomena, such as photo-thermal and phosphorescence lifetime imaging.
The organization of AMPA receptor subunits at the postsynaptic membrane

AMPA receptors are the principal mediators of excitatory synaptic transmission in the mammalian central nervous system. The subunit composition of these tetrameric receptors helps to define their functional properties, and may also influence the synaptic trafficking implicated in long-term synaptic plasticity. However, the organization of AMPAR subunits within the synapse remains unclear. Here, we use postembedding immunogold electron microscopy to study the synaptic organization of AMPAR subunits in stratum radiatum of CA1 hippocampus in the adult rat. We find that GluA1 concentrates away from the center of the synapse, extending at least 25 nm beyond the synaptic specialization; in contrast, GluA3 is uniformly distributed along the synapse, and seldom extends beyond its lateral border. The fraction of extrasynaptic GluA1 is markedly higher in small than in large synapses; no such effect is seen for GluA3. These observations imply that different kinds of AMPARs are differently trafficked to and/or anchored at the synapse.
Lessons learned from moving to one scientific name for fungi

With the changes implemented in the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi and plants, fungi may no longer have more than one scientific name. Although determining which scientific name to use is based on the principle of priority, situations exist in which applying a strict principle of priority does not contribute to the nomenclatural stability of fungi, thus exceptions can be made to this principle. Examples are presented showing how the single scientific name is determined at both the generic and specific level. In addition procedures are outlined for making exceptions to this rule. Considerable progress has been made in determining which genus to use for major groups of fungi. Interested scientists are invited to participate in the process of moving to one scientific name for fungi by contacting members dealing with specific groups of fungi as listed on the website of the International Commission for the Taxonomy of Fungi ( https://doi.org/www.fungaltaxonomy.org/subcommissions ). A new combination of Clonostachys is also made.
A VIEW FROM THE ACADEMIC EDGE: One Black Woman Who is Dancing as Fast as She Can

Few Black women are tenured faculty in academia, and the statistics are quite stunning. The Almanac of the Chronicle of Higher Education ( 2004–2005 ) shows that, in 2001, 1% of all faculty at the rank of professor were Black females—only 5% of all females at that rank. The numbers are only slightly better for the rank of associate professor, the only other rank where one is likely to be tenured. Of all faculty at the associate professor level, only 2% are Black women; among women at that rank, only 6% are Black. Of assistant professors, 3% are Black females (7.5% of all female faculty at that rank); Black females comprise 8% of female instructors (4% of all faculty at that rank); and 3% of lecturers (5% of all female lecturers).
CHEMORECEPTION IN DECAPOD CRUSTACEA AND CHEMICAL FEEDING STIMULANTS AS POTENTIAL FEED ADDITIVES

Types of chemical feeding effectors are listed, and locations and functions of decapod chemoreceptors are discussed. Low molecular weight substances found most stimulatory in behavioral, physiological, and electrophysiological studies on decapods are tabulated. Most of these chemicals have not been widely tested, and some are prohibitively expensive for use in feeds. The most generally stimulatory single substances are L-glutamic acid, glycine, and taurine. Mixtures of substances can be more effective than single substances; e.g., the use of betaine plus amino acids shows some promise.
Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) performed with 1470 nm laser: long term outcomes and comparison with 980 nm laser

Purpose To determine the effectiveness of EVLA of symptomatic lower extremity varicosities with 1470 nm laser fiber, and to compare the effectiveness to EVLA with 980 nm laser fiber. Materials and Methods IRB and HIPAA compliance were obtained. A retrospective review of electronic medical records of patients who underwent EVLA with 1470 nm laser at a busy outpatient interventional radiology practice associated with a major medical center was performed. Data collected included age, sex, laterality, vein treated, and parameters of treatment—i.e. watts, length of vein treated, energy density (J/cm), and tumescent anesthesia volume. Follow up duplex Doppler ultrasound exam results and follow up intervals were recorded. Ultrasound recanalization was defined as compressibility of and/ or presence of color Doppler flow within the treated vein segment. Fisher's exact test was used to compare the recanalization rate of the 1470 nm wavelength group to those treated with 980 nm EVLA during the same time period. Results Between 9/2009 and 4/2012, 74 vein segments were treated with 1470 nm wavelength EVLA. The distribution of vein segments was 47 (63.5%) great saphenous vein (GSV), 13 (17.6%) small saphenous vein (SSV), 10 (13.5%) accessory lateral tributary (ALT), and 4 (5.4%) other. The average US follow-up duration was 215 days (range: 7 - 1022). Recanalization rate for 1470 nm group was 5.4% (4/74). During the same time period at the same center, there were 714 vein segments treated with 980 nm wavelength EVLA. The average US follow-up duration was 310 days (range: 7 - 776). The recanalization rate was 3.5% (25/714).There was no statistically significant difference in long term recanalization rates between those treated with 1470 nm laser compared with 980 nm EVLA (p=0.34). Conclusion EVLA performed with 1470 nm laser showed a low long term recanalization rate. There was no statistically significant difference in recanalization rate compared with segments treated with 980 nm EVLA during the same time period.
Flirting with Death: Variables Affecting Risk Taking at Intersections1

A series of four field studies were conducted to examine how motorists behaved at intersections. In each study, the proportion of drivers who pulled out in front of oncoming cars at varying temporal distances was recorded. In the first study, it was found that the proportion of turns in front of an approaching car was related to the log of the temporal distance between the subjects and the oncoming cars by a normal ogive. The remaining studies examined the effects that the presence of various types of audiences had on this risk-taking function. It was found that being forced to wait in a line of cars before being allowed to turn substantially increased the risks that drivers took, whereas the presence of other cars behind and/or beside the subject's car had no effect on the risk-taking function. A hypothesis explaining these effects in terms of the frustration of being forced to wait was supported while a social facilitation hypothesis was not. It was also discovered that males take more risks than females, a fact which could explain the higher accident rate for males.
A REASSESSMENT OF THE SOURCES AND IMPORTANCE OF LAND-DERIVED ORGANIC MATTER IN SURFACE SEDIMENTS FROM THE GULF OF MEXICO

Organic matter in surface sediments from two onshore-offshore transects in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico was characterized by a variety of techniques, including elemental, stable carbon, radiocarbon, and molecular-level analyses. In spite of the importance of the Mississippi River as a sediment source, there is little evidence for a significant terrigenous input based on the low carbon:nitrogen ratios (8 -5) and the enriched d 13 C values of bulk sedimentary organic carbon (219.7‰ to 221.7‰). Radiocarbon analyses, on the other hand, yield depleted D 14 C values (2277‰ to 2572‰) which indicate that a significant fraction of the sedimentary organic carbon (OC) in all these surface sediments must be relatively old and most likely of allochthonous origin. CuO oxidations yield relatively low quantities of lignin products (0.4 -1.4 mg/100 mg OC) along with compounds derived from proteins, polysaccharides, and lipids. Syringyl:vanillyl and cin- namyl:vanillyl ratios (averaging 1.6 and 0.5, respectively) and acid:aldehyde ratios for both vanillyl and syringyl phenols (averaging 0.8 and 1.2, respectively) indicate that the lignin present in sediments originates from nonwoody angiosperm sources and is highly degraded. The d 13 C values of lignin phenols in shelf sediments are relatively depleted in 13 C (averaging 226.3‰) but are increasingly enriched in 13 C at the slope sites (averaging 217.5‰ for the two deepest stations). We interpret these molecular and isotopic compositions to indicate that a significant fraction ($50%) of the lignin and, by inference, the land-derived organic carbon in northwestern Gulf of Mexico sediments ultimately originated from C4 plants. The source of this material is likely to be soil organic matter eroded from the extensive grasslands of the Mississippi River drainage basin. Notably, the mixed C4 and C3 source and the highly degraded state of this material hampers its recognition and quantification in shelf and slope sediments. Our data are consistent with higher than previously estimated inputs of land-derived organic carbon to regions of the ocean, such as the Gulf of Mexico, with significant sources of terrigenous C4-derived organic matter. Copyright © 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd
Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering for identification of organic pigments and dyes in works of art and cultural heritage material

Purpose – Identification and characterization of organic pigments and dyes used in works of art and cultural heritage material such as prints, drawings, manuscripts, paintings, and textiles can provide important information for dating, authentication, and conservation treatment of these objects and studying art history in general. Applications of surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) for this purpose have recently attracted increasing attention of both academic scientists and museum researchers. This paper aims to review the latest development involving the emerging applications of SERS for the analysis of organic pigments and dyes used in works of art and cultural heritage material.Design/methodology/approach – First, the importance of organic pigments and dyes in the studies of works of art and cultural heritage material and the challenges in their identification and characterization are briefly summarized. This is followed by a discussion on sampling considerations in the context of art and archaeol...
“l'animal qui fait oink! oink!”: Bilingual children's oral and written picture descriptions in English and French under varying instructions

How do children perform on four distinct picture description tasks in French, a language that has limited use in their lives? How does their performance on these tasks in the “limited use” language compare to the performance on the same tasks in English, the broader use language of their school and the society? And what are the effects of the children's home language environments on their performances both in French and in English? Fifty‐two 2nd‐ through 5th‐grade children at an independent school in Manhattan produced oral and written picture descriptions for a present audience (contextualized condition) and for an absent audience (decontextualized condition) in English and French. Descriptions were coded for measures of quantity, specificity, density, main theme, and narrativity. For the French tasks, children were most influenced by whether the task was written or oral. By contrast, in English, the instructions (contextualized vs. decontextualized) had a more powerful effect. Overall, English descripti...
Residency education on the prevention of physician-patient sexual misconduct.

Despite ethical prohibitions and legal sanctions, physician sexual misconduct continues to occur at alarming rates. Even in psychiatry, which historically addresses topics such as boundary issues for psychiatrists in residency training programs, little education exists about preventing physician sexual misconduct. The authors propose an outline for education in the prevention of sexual misconduct for psychiatry residency programs.
A critical analysis of the anterior-posterior radiographic anatomy of the ankle syndesmosis

To determine the normal anatomic radiographic landmarks of the ankle syndesmosis, standardized anterior-posterior radiographs of the right ankle were performed on 40 male and 40 female volunteers. The average tibiofibular clear space was 3.8 mm in females, 4.6 mm in males, and 4.2 mm overall. The tibiofibular overlap measured 6.0 mm in females, 9.6 mm in males, and 7.8 mm overall. Due to this variability and the gender differences, we investigated the anatomy of the syndesmosis as ratios of the potentially variable values to fixed landmarks. The ratio of the tibiofibular overlap to the fibular width averaged 54% and the ratio of the tibiofibular clear space to the fibular width averaged 30%, with no statistically significant difference due to gender.Our data show that for 90% prediction intervals, the values are: (1) tibiofibular clear space less than 5.2 mm in women and 6.5 mm in men; (2) tibiofibular overlap of greater than 2.1 mm in females and 5.7 mm in males; (3) tibiofibular overlap:fibular width ra...
Comparison of the HF−HCl and HF−BF3 maceration techniques and the chemistry of resultant organic concentrates

Abstract The common approach used to concentrate and isolate dispersed organic matter and to demineralize coal is by attack with HF. This reagent reacts with silicates to form SiF 4 , a volatile gas, and leaves the organic matter largely unaltered. Hydrofluoric acid also reacts with other inorganics to form fluoride salts, the most important being CaF 2 which is very insoluble. Hydrochloric acid is usually used as a pretreatment to remove carbonate minerals and to inhibit fluoride salt formation in the final deashing step with HF. The approach taken in this work is to selectively dissolve neo-formed fluorides in a two step demineralizing process, by reaction with BF 3 , which is a highly water soluble gas. The BF 3 is generated by the reaction of H 3 BO 3 with HF, in water. It then reacts with neo-formed fluoride salts to form water soluble fluoroborates. Several coals and organic rich sediments were demineralized with both techniques. The total ash in the test samples varied from ∼1% in samples of Wyoming subbituminous coal and a North Dakota lignite to 33% in an Irati oil shale sample. For high ash samples, the HF-BF 3 technique resulted in a final deashed product which is lower in ash by an average of 19% over those from the HF-HCl technique. Elemental analysis, FTIR and microscopic examination did not indicate any relative difference in organic alteration. The HF-HCl macerated samples however, were found to have a much higher Cl and F content, suggesting a lesser degree of organic alteration for HF-BF 3 macerated samples.
A virtual sensor system for user-generated, real-time environmental data products

With the advent of new instrumentation and sensors, more diverse types and increasing amounts of data are becoming available to environmental researchers and practitioners. However, accessing and integrating these data into forms usable for environmental analysis and modeling can be highly time-consuming and challenging, particularly in real time. For example, radar-rainfall data are a valuable resource for hydrologic modeling because of their high resolution and pervasive coverage. However, radar-rainfall data from the Next Generation Radar (NEXRAD) system continue to be underutilized outside of the operational environment because of limitations in access and availability of research-quality data products, especially in real time. This paper addresses these issues through the development of a prototype Web-based virtual sensor system at NCSA that creates real-time customized data streams from raw sensor data. These data streams are supported by metadata, including provenance information. The system uses workflow composition and publishing tools to facilitate creation and publication (as Web services) of user-created virtual sensors. To demonstrate the system, two case studies are presented. In the first case study, a network of point-based virtual precipitation sensors is deployed to analyze the relationship between radar-rainfall measurements, and in the second case study, a network of polygon-based virtual precipitation sensors is deployed to be used as input to urban flooding models. These case studies illustrate how, with the addition of some application-specific information, this general-purpose system can be utilized to provide customized real-time access to significant data resources such as the NEXRAD system. Additionally, the creation of new types of virtual sensors is discussed, using the example of virtual temperature sensors.
QED theory of excess spontaneous emission noise

The results of a quantum-electrodynamical theory of excess spontaneous emission noise in lossy resonators will be presented. The " Petermann K factor" does not enter into the spontaneous emission rate of a single atom in the cavity. The QED theory allows different interpretations of the K factor and we use this fact to justify semiclassical analyses and to provide in one example a simple derivation of K in terms of the amplification of the quantum vacuum field entering the resonator through its mirrors.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Malignant recurrent extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma in a child A case report

A 16 year old male with a four year history of recurrent pheochromocytoma develops multiple osseous lytic lesions in the skull, clavicle, ribs, and fibula all of an expansile, ill-defined appearance. These are biopsy proven metastatic sites. To our knowledge this is the first reported proven case of malignant extra-adrenal or adrenal pheochromocytoma with multiple bone metastases in a child.
Secondary teachers’ and undergraduate education faculty members’ perceptions of teaching‐effectiveness criteria: A national survey

This essay presents findings from a national survey of secondary‐school teachers and undergraduate education faculty members regarding their perceptions of criteria related to gaining employment as a secondary‐school teacher, effective teaching, and preparatory undergraduate coursework. A questionnaire was sent to a sample of 1076 secondary‐school teachers and 538 undergraduate education faculty members asking them to rate criteria and courses. Data collected from 350 secondary‐school teachers and 201 undergraduate education faculty members showed that communication‐related skills (e.g., Interpersonal Communication Skills, Oral Communication Skills), attributes (e.g., Enthusiasm, Poise) and courses (e.g., Interpersonal Communication, Public Speaking) were rated among the most important criteria by both groups of respondents in all three areas (employment in a teaching position, in‐class effectiveness, and preparatory coursework). The role of teacher preparation in the current National Communication Associ...
Demography of the endangered North Atlantic right whale

Northern right whales (Eubalaena glacialis) were formerly abundant in the northwestern Atlantic, but by 1900 they had been hunted to near extinction. After the end of commercial whaling the population was thought to be recovering slowly; however, evidence indicates that it has been declining since about 1990 (ref. 1). There are now fewer than 300 individuals, and the species may already be functionally extinct2,3 owing to demographic stochasticity or the difficulty of females locating mates in the vast Atlantic Ocean (Allee effect4). Using a data set containing over 10,000 sightings of photographically identified individuals we estimated trends in right whale demographic parameters since 1980. Here we construct, using these estimates, matrix population models allowing us to analyse the causes of right whale imperilment. Mortality has increased, especially among mother whales, causing declines in population growth rate, life expectancy and the mean lifetime number of reproductive events between the period 1980–1995. Increased mortality of mother whales can explain the declining population size, suggesting that the population is not doomed to extinction as a result of the Allee effect. An analysis of extinction time shows that demographic stochasticity has only a small effect, but preventing the deaths of only two female right whales per year would increase the population growth rate to replacement level.
Planar fabrication process of a high-coupling-efficiency interface between optical waveguides of large index difference.

A high-coupling-efficiency interface connecting two optical waveguides of large index difference is reported. Both theoretical analysis and an experimental study were performed. High coupling efficiency is achieved by matching the mode profiles in two waveguides as well as connecting the waveguides with an antireflection (AR) section. Analysis shows a coupling efficiency as high as 98% between glass–SiO2 and Ga0.72Al0.28As–Ga0.59Al0.41As waveguides with an AR section of TiO2. An index difference of 1.8 for the TE0 mode between these two waveguides is obtained. To implement the glass–SiO2 waveguide with an AR section in the host AlGaAs waveguide, a new quadrilevel photomasking and lift-off process is developed. A coupling efficiency of 83% was measured for the TE0 mode at the 1.15- μm wavelength, a very high value considering the large index difference (1.75) between the two waveguides that were connected. The design concept and the fabrication process developed should facilitate efficient integration of low- and high-index waveguides on the same substrate to produce a greater variety of photonic devices and modules.
Electromagnetic damping of convective contamination in self-diffusivity experiments with periodic heating conditions

Accurate mass diffusivity values are important in mass transfer processes. Diffusion experiments conducted on earth are typically convectively contaminated due to either thermal or solutal gradients. Liquid metals and semiconductors have high electrical conductivities, and applied magnetic fields may suppress buoyant convection in these liquids. In this paper, an axisymmetric self-diffusivity model is considered in the presence of a steady, strong, uniform axial magnetic field with liquid indium. An isopycnic (radioisotope) tracer is used so that only thermal differences drive the convection. Five different combinations of a steady, uniform heat flux and a steady, periodic heat flux are imposed along the vertical wall while uniform heat loss is allowed through the top and bottom walls of the cylinder. The addition of periodic heat flux with the reduced uniform heat flux has a positive impact on the output diffusivity results for the same applied magnetic field of 5.24 T.
Topical Ophthalmic β-Adrenergic Blockade for the Treatment of Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension

Since the late 1970s, topical beta-adrenergic blockers have been the drugs of choice in treating ocular hypertension and associated glaucoma. The currently available drugs are timolol, betaxolol, levobunolol, metipranolol, and carteolol. All reduce intraocular pressure by decreasing the production of aqueous humor. Although these drugs are applied locally in the eye, they may enter the general circulation and reach concentrations high enough to cause systemic effects, including alterations in heart rate and rhythm, bronchoconstriction, dyslipidemia, and central nervous system abnormalities. Interactions with other drugs may also occur. Ocular beta- blockers differ in beta 1-selectivity (betaxolol is beta 1-selective, whereas the other drugs are nonselective) and in intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA) or partial agonist properties (only carteolol possesses ISA). These differences give betaxolol and carteolol potential advantages in minimizing certain side effects. The advantage of betaxolol vis-a-vis systemic side effects is more clearly established than that of carteolol. Further systematic study is needed to determine what advantages, if any, are conferred by the presence of ISA.
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention of Lyme Disease in Children

The approaches to diagnosing and treating Lyme disease (LD) have been improved and refined as a result of basic and clinical research, and considerable practical experience. In addition, there have been recent studies that have allowed improvements in the ability to prevent infection with Borrelia burgdorferi. This paper will review the relevant literature and address recent developments in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of LD. Issues specifically related to the management of children will be identified. Controversies regarding treatment approaches will be examined in some detail. Understanding the clinical manifestations, or stage, of LD is crucial when approaching both diagnosis and treatment. Early localized disease is best diagnosed by recognizing the characteristic skin lesion, erythema migrans. Early disease will frequently, but not always, be accompanied by a detectable antibody response, particularly IgM antibody to the spirochete. Late disease, chiefly arthritis, is generally associated with high levels of IgG antibody. Western blot technology allows confirmation of enzyme immunoassay results and is especially useful when the latter is in the low or equivocal range. Early localized disease responds well to oral antibacterial therapy. Early disseminated disease, often associated with neurologic findings, may require parenteral therapy. The arthritis associated with LD frequently responds to oral antibacterials, but some refractory cases may require intravenous therapy, and occasionally surgery. Doxycycline is the oral antibacterial of choice, while amoxicillin and cefuroxime axetil are alternatives that may be preferred in young children. Owing to its long half-life and once daily dose administration, intravenous ceftriaxone has become the accepted standard for parenteral therapy. Tick avoidance has long been the mainstay for preventing LD. Antibacterial prophylaxis, using doxycycline, for tick bites has been shown to be an effective approach to prevention, but its relevance to pediatrics is uncertain. Vaccines designed to prevent infection have also been developed.
AGGREGATION OF P,P' -DI( 2-ETHYLHEXYL) METHANEDIPHOSPHONIC ACID AND ITS Fe(III) COMPLEXES ∗

ABSTRACT The aggregation of P,P' -di( 2-ethylhexyl) methanediphosphonic acid, H2DEH[ MDP] dissolved in deuterated toluene has been investigated by small angle neutron scattering ( SANS) The title compound was shown to exist in solution as a dimer under all conditions. Dimer formation is independent of the acidity of the aqueous solution with which the organic solution is pre-equilibrated. Solutions of H2 DEH[ MDP] containing increasing amounts of Fe( lll) extracted from aqueous solutions in the acidity range from 0.1 to 5 M were also investigated. The SANS results confirm the tendency of H2DEH[ MDP] -Fe( III) species in aromatic diluents to form rod-like aggregates characteristic by a constant cross section and a length which increases with increasing amounts of metal in the organic phase. Particle growth is independent of the acidity of the aqueous solutions from which the metal is extracted. These results are important for understanding the chemistry underlying the solvent extraction behavior H2DEH[ MDP...
Evidence for a charge-density wave or spin-density wave in the Cu-O chains in YBa2Cu3O7-x.

The Doppler-broadened positron annihilation spectra of polycrystalline samples of ${\mathrm{YBa}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$ have been measured and analyzed. By studying the difference between the normal-state (room-temperature) and superconducting-state (liquid-nitrogen temperature) spectra, we have deduced that the valence electrons undergo a significant redistribution in momentum states when the material becomes superconducting. We present evidence to demonstrate that this redistribution is consistent with the formation of a static charge-density wave or spin-density wave in the Cu-O chains either concurrent or very closely associated with the superconducting transition.
The prevalence of the FMR1 and FMR2 mutations among preschool children with language delay.

Abstract We examined the prevalence of the fragile X mental retardation (FMR1) full mutation and fragile X E mutation (FMR2) among preschoolers evaluated for language delay. A total of 534 preschoolers recruited from a Developmental Pediatric or Speech and Language Disorders clinic were tested with Southern blot and polymerase chain reaction DNA analyses; 3 were found to have the FMR1 full mutation. None of the 534 children tested positive for the FMR2 full mutation; however, 3 children had unusually small FMR2 alleles suggestive of FMR2 deletions. Screening for fragile X among language-delayed preschoolers is warranted, particularly when there is a family history of mental retardation, but regardless of sex or the presence of behavioral or physical features associated with the fragile X phenotype. The potential benefit of screening for FMR2 alterations is an unexpected implication of the study and is worthy of continued exploration. (J Pediatr 1998;132:795-801)
Biosynthesis of glycosphingolipids by human myeloid leukemia cells

We have performed comparative studies of the neutral glycosphingolipids synthesized by three human myeloid leukemia cell lines, K562, KG1, and HL-60, which were metabolically labeled with [14C]galactose, to evaluate changes in neutral glycosphingolipid synthesis with myeloid cell differentiation. Individual neutral glycosphingolipids containing one to four sugars were purified by a combination of the following methods: diethylaminoethyl-Sephadex column chromatography, acetylation-Florisil column chromatography, and high-performance liquid chromatography using an Iatrobead column. Compounds with one sugar were analyzed by thin-layer chromatography on borate plates. This analysis showed that HL-60 cells synthesize only glucosylceramide, whereas K562 and KG1 cells synthesize predominately glucosylceramide, but also a small amount of galactosylceramide. Compounds with two to four sugars were characterized by treatment with exo- and endoglycosidases. The results showed that K562 and KG1 cells are similar to cells from patients with acute leukemia in expressing two series (globo and neolacto) of natural glycosphingolipids, whereas the HL-60 cells are similar to mature human myeloid cells in expressing only one series (neolacto). Therefore, human myeloid leukemia cells blocked at different stages of differentiation vary in their ability to synthesize neutral glycosphingolipids.
Vibration rotation bands of 15N218Odetermination of precise values of internuclear distances

The rotational structure of sixteen vibration rotation bands of the 15 N 2 18 Omolecule in the 2–5 μ region has been measured and analyzed. Since the molecule 15 N 2 18 O is the heaviest of all the stable isotopic species of nitrous oxide, the study of its infrared bands allowed the determination of very accurate values for the equilibrium internuclear distances r N—N = 1.1266 5 ± 0.0005 A and r N—O = 1.1856 5 ± 0.0005 A. The distance between the end atoms is determined with a much higher precision ( r N—N + r N—O ) = 2.31230 ± 0.00003 A.
Three-Dimensional Numerical Simulations of Curved Edge-Curved Surface Hemming of Aluminum Alloy

Hemming is a manufacturing process to fold a sheet onto itself or another sheet. The dimensional defects (roll-in/rollout, warp/recoil, distortion due to springback, etc.) of hems critically impact the perceived quality of automotive exteriors. This paper summarizes the procedures and the results of three-dimensional (3D) numerical simulations on curved edge-curved surface hemming of aluminum alloy AA6111-T4PD. A solid-element model is built in ABAQUS using explicit quasi-static finite element (FE) procedure for flanging, pre-hemming and final hemming, and implicit procedure for the corresponding preloading and resulting springback at high simulation cost. Aiming at improving the computational efficiency, various approaches have been taken and tested including using shell elements as alternatives, developing simplified simulation procedure by combining pre- and final hemming in explicit scheme, and further simplification by neglecting intermediate springback analysis. The same conditions are analyzed using shell elements in LS-DYNA, but only final hemming springback is considered. The results of the simplified models are compared with the results of ABAQUS solid-element model with complete procedure. Both accuracy and efficiency of the models are presented and discussed.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Seed extracts impede germination in Brassica rapa plants

Allelopathy is an important mechanism of interference competition in some plants, but little is known about whether compounds exuded from seeds influence the germination of neighbors. We treated seeds of multiple lines of Brassica rapa (field mustard) with aqueous extracts of Brassica rapa Fast Plant seeds and extracts of seeds of the invasive, allelopathic plant Alliaria petiolata (garlic mustard). Germination patterns differed significantly among populations, with Fast Plants germinating earliest. As predicted, Alliaria seed extracts significantly delayed germination compared to controls. Surprisingly, Fast Plant extracts reduced germination probability and delayed germination more than both controls and Alliaria extract-treated seeds. These results suggest that compounds in the seeds of both species appear to be allelopathic, and indicate a potentially important and unrecognized role for allelopathy in intra- and inter- specific competition at the seed stage.
MBL or CLL : Which classification best categorizes the clinical course of patients with an absolute lymphocyte count ≥5 × 109 L-1 but a B-cell lymphocyte count <5 × 109 L-1?

To eliminate overlap with monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL), some have proposed basing the diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) on B lymphocyte count rather than absolute lymphocyte count (ALC). Such criteria should be based, in part, on patient outcomes. We evaluated the clinical implications of the proposed re-classification in 112 consecutive, newly diagnosed, Rai stage 0 patients. The new criteria would have changed the diagnosis from CLL to MBL in 47/112 (42%) patients. There was no difference in time to treatment (TTT) between those classified as MBL and CLL under the new criteria. In contrast, CD38 predicted TTT (p = 0.02) regardless of the proposed new classification. Molecular characteristics of the leukemic clone are a better predictor of progression than an arbitrary ALC or B lymphocyte count threshold.
C4ISR architectures: II. A structured analysis approach for architecture design

A Structured Analysis based process for developing C4ISR architectures is presented. The process demonstrates the feasibility of developing architecture descriptions that conform to the C4ISR Architecture Framework based on the Structured Analysis paradigm that underlies the concepts and definitions in the Framework. Furthermore, the process incorporates the derivation of an executable model that can reveal the logical, behavioral, and performance characteristics of the architecture. The complete process is illustrated through an example involving the insertion of a new technology in a large legacy system. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Syst Eng 3: 248–287, 2000
Internal Tobacco Industry Research on Olfactory and Trigeminal Nerve Response to Nicotine and Other Smoke Components

Evidence has shown that factors other than the central pharmacological effects of nicotine are important in promoting smoking behavior. One such non-nicotine effect includes sensory stimulation, which may promote smoking by developing learned associations with nicotine's rewarding effects, or by constituting a rewarding experience independent of nicotine. The present study used internal tobacco industry documents to examine industry efforts to understand and manipulate stimulation of the sensory nerves by tobacco smoke, and the influence of sensory stimulation on smoker behavior. Research focused on sensory nerves of the head and neck, including the olfactory nerve, which carries flavor and odor, and the trigeminal nerve, which carries irritant information. The tobacco industry maintained a systematic research program designed to elucidate an understanding of responses of sensory nerves to nicotine and other components of tobacco smoke, and attempted to develop nicotine-like compounds that would enhance sensory responses in smokers. Industry research appeared intended to aid in the development of new products with greater consumer appeal. The potential influence of sensory response in enhancing nicotine dependence through an associative mechanism was acknowledged by the tobacco industry, but evidence for research in this area was limited. These findings add to evidence of industry manipulation of sensory factors to enhance smoking behavior and may have implications for development of more effective treatment strategies, including more "acceptable" nicotine replacement therapies.
Long-term reproducibility of in vivo measures of specific binding of radioligands in rat brain

The long-term reproducibility of measures of in vivo specific binding of radiolabeled forms of (+)-alpha-dihydrotetrabenazine (DTBZ) and d-threo-methylphenidate (MPH) in rat brain was examined. All studies were done using a consistent bolus plus infusion protocol and calculation of equilibrium distribution volume ratios (DVR). Over a period of eight years striatal DVR values for DTBZ binding to the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) in young adult (8-10 wks old) rats showed very good reproducibility (3.62+/-0.33, N=35). Equivalent values were obtained using either tritiated or carbon-11 labeled DTBZ, and were irrespective of sex of animals. Older animals (78 wks old) showed losses (-45%) of specific binding. Striatal binding of MPH to the dopamine transporter (DAT) showed a similar reproducibility over a five year period (DVR=2.17+/-0.39, N=52), again irrespective of radionuclide or sex. These studies demonstrate that use of a consistent in vivo technique can provide reliable measures of specific binding of radioligands to high affinity sites in the rat brain.
The Mechanism of the Positive Point-to-Plane Corona in Air at Atmospheric Pressure

Attention is called to the fluctuating character of the current in the positive point-to-plane corona in air at atmospheric pressure. It is shown that in the self-sustaining corona the current is due to a large number of individual current-pulses or bursts which are distributed over the surface of the point in regions of adequate field strength. The bursts of current are quite random in time, space, and intensity, and in general are composed of many successive avalanches of electron ionization which flow into regions of high field strength caused by space charges left by preceding avalanches. These bursts propagate outward across the gaps until extinguished by space charge accumulations, diffusion, self-repulsion, and ion migration in the field as well as by infelicitous coincidences of avalanche and the space charge distribution in the gap. The succeeding electron avalanches are initiated in air by photoelectrons produced in the gas ahead of the point. Evidence of an electrical, visual, and photographic character is presented confirming the existence of bursts and giving orders of magnitude of various features under operating conditions. The ionization produced is most intense at the point in the early stages and the number and intensity of the bursts increase with field strength. The development of a burst at one spot is exceedingly rapid (about ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}8}$ sec.) and is followed by a longer period (of about ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}$ sec.) as regards that spot, in which the field clears the space charge. In air it appears that the self-sustaining corona requires a high enough potential to overcome the space charge, an adequate current to furnish photoelectrons, and in addition the formation of negative ions to insure that fluctuations shall not break off the discharge. As both the field at the point and clearing field increase, the bursts propagate further into the gap and ultimately form streamers from 6 to 11 mm long. When these catch up with previous extinct space charge streamers further out in the gap, they project themselves further and further towards the cathode much in the manner of the leader-strokes in lightning discharge. If such a streamer striking the cathode creates an active cathode spot the return discharge produces a spark or an arc.
Recent understanding in the mechanisms of addiction

The rewarding effects of drugs of abuse have been linked to increases in dopamine transmission. However, changes in brain chemistry and morphology that are produced in addiction underlie the long-lasting vulnerability to relapse and are more closely linked with the adaptations in excitatory transmission. The drug-induced changes in excitatory transmission seem to be pathologic exacerbations of normal forms of brain plasticity, and they occur in the brain areas linked by neuroimaging studies in addicted patients to craving and relapse. This review describes the brain adaptations produced in excitatory transmission by addictive drugs and identifies new potential sites of pharmacotherapeutic intervention to ameliorate addiction.
Electrophysiological responses of frog skin to the peptides bombesin, caerulein, and physalaemin.

Abstract Isolated skins from the frog Rana pipiens were mounted on Ussing-type chambers and bathed with Amphibian Ringer’s solution on both sides. Electrical potential difference, resistance, and short-circuit current (SCC) were measured by using calomel electrodes, Ag-AgCl electrodes, Ringer’s-agar bridges, and Tektronix digital multimeters. Under the conditions employed, SCC is a measure of net Na + transport. The frog skin peptides bombesin, caerulein, and physalaemin were administered to the serosal side at concentrations of 0.5, 5.0, and 50 ng/ml. Control electrophysiological parameters were: potential difference, 23 ± 2 mV; resistance, 738 ± 59 Ω cm 2 ; and SCC 32 ± 3 μA/cm 2 . Although bombesin and caerulein had no significant, reversible effect on potential difference, resistance, or SCC, physalaemin significantly, and reversibly, depressed SCC by 22%. Caerulein did significantly depress SCC, but the response was not reversible.
Song, mate choice and the question of kin recognition in a migratory songbird

Abstract Songs of migratory indigo buntings, Passerina cyanea , were compared among kin for birds of known family history. In one population 9·7% of the banded nestlings were seen in a later year within 2 km of their birth site. Nearly all of the males that returned to their natal area had a song unlike their father's song. Four females mated with a male whose song was like their father's (two of the four mated with their father). The proportion of birds whose song was like their father's (or, for females, mated with a male with a song like their father's) was close to that expected by chance, based on the number of males with their father's song in the study area. Brothers, sisters, half-siblings and three-generation kin (maternal and paternal grandfathers compared with their grandsons and with their granddaughters' mates) had different songs. Birds within a song neighbourhood came from different natal song neighbourhoods and were not close relatives. The dispersal that accompanies long-distance seasonal migration and the disruption of family social bonds has the effect of dispersing relatives. Buntings do not appear to use songs to recognize kin in mate choice; songs are therefore not kinship markers in this species.
Corn growth and yield response to subsurface drain spacing on clermont silt loam soil

Subsurface drainage is an important water management practice on naturally poorly drained soils, and recommendations for appropriate drain spadngs for particular soils continue to evolve. The objective of this long-term study was to measure corn (Zea mays L.) growth and yield as affected by subsurface drain spacing on a soil that was traditionally not tile drained. Three drain spacings (5, 10, and 20 m) were compared with a nondrained control (40 m) for plant population, grain yield, and moisture content over a 10-yr period on a low-organic-matter silt loam soil. In addition, corn populations, heights at 4 and 8 wk, yield, and moisture were measured with distance from the drain for the 5-, 10-, and 20-m spacings. Significant distance effects occurred more frequently for the 20-m spacing than for the 10- and 5-m spacings, especially for grain yield and moisture. The 10-yr average corn yields were 9.8, 9.7, 9.5, and 9.2 Mg ha -1 for the 5-, 10-, and 20-m plots and the nondrained control plots, respectively. Grain yield was 1.3 to 1.7 Mg ha -1 lower in the nondrained control than in the 5-m spacing in 3 of the 10 yr and was likely due to both planting date delays and wetter soil conditions after planting. The smaller-than-expected yield differences among treatments may reflect the excellent surface drainage in this field as well as optimal planting dates in 7 of the 10 years. The results demonstrate that drainage improvements are a long-term investment and may not provide yield benefit in every year.
Ion-collision experiments with slow, very highly charged ions extracted from an electron-beam ion trap.

Highly charged Ar (up to 18+), Xe (up to 48+), and U (up to 71+) ions produced through electron-impact ionization and excitation in an electron-beam ion trap have efficiently been extracted from the trap, and mass and charge analyzed. Charge-state distributions for Ar and Xe ions following electron-impact ionization and excitation have been measured. Relative yields for the production of Ar{sup 16+} and Xe{sup 44+} ions have been deduced as a function of electron-beam energies. Ar {ital K} and Xe {ital L} x-ray emission following Ar{sup 17+}, Ar{sup 18+} and Xe{sup 44+}, Xe{sup 45+} and Xe{sup 48+} ion impact on a Cu surface was measured. The observed line positions demonstrate electron capture into high-{ital n} states and a fast radiative decay in the neutralization process at the surface.