cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Attitudes Toward State-Led Conservation and Community-Based Conservation in the Village of Bigodi, Uganda

This article reports on research conducted in a rural Ugandan village. Residents of the village have experience with two types of conservation: one led by the state with minimal local involvement, and another led by community members with abundant local participation. The purpose of the research was to compare residents' attitudes toward the community-based approach to conservation with the state-led approach, and to explain any differences in attitude that might exist. The results are based on in-depth interviews conducted with 50 residents who have all been living in the village since both conservation areas were established. Findings show that the community-based approach has generated positive attitudes toward conservation while the state-led approach has not. The difference in attitudes is explained by specific beliefs that residents hold regarding each conservation approach. Possible implications for conservation behavior are discussed.
Evolution of reptilian visual systems: Retinal projections in a nocturnal lizard, Gekko gecko (linnaeus)

On the basis of the development of the dorsal ventricular ridge of the telencephalon, lizards can be divided into a type I group, to which Gekko and the majority of lizard families belong, and a type II group with more derived features, of which Iguana is representative. Most studies of retinal projections have utilized lizards of the type II group, which are adapted to a diurnal niche. Gekko gecko is differently adapted in that it is nocturnal. Study of the retinal projections was undertaken in Gekko gecko in order to insure that conclusions regarding the pattern of retinal pathways in saurians would be based on a sample which was more representative of the total range of variation. Unilateral removal of the retina by suction cannula was carried out on 12 adult specimens of Gekko gecko. After survival times of 10 to 74 days, brains were processed with various silver methods. The retina projects contralaterally to the pars dorsalis and pars ventralis of the lateral geniculate nucleus and the pars ventralis of the ventrolateral nucleus in the thalamus, nuclei geniculatus pretectalis, lentiformis mesencephali, and posterodorsalis in the pretectum, layers 8–14 of the optic tectum and nucleus opticus tegmenti. Additionally, the retina projects ipsilaterally to the dorsal and ventral lateral geniculate nuclei and to the pretectal nuclei, as well as to the optic tectum, particularly layers 8 and 9. The finding of ipsilateral retinothalamic projections in Gekko supports the idea that this pathway is generalized among saurians. However, presence of ipsilateral retinothalamic projections and the degree of binocular overlap cannot be correlated when lizards, snakes, crocodiles, and turtles are compared. The functional significance of this pathway therefore remains obscure. Ipsilateral retinotectal projections have not been previously described in land vertebrates other than mammals. Whether their presence is correlated with nocturnal visual habits or is generalized among type I lizards remains to be determined. The pattern of retinal projections has been studied in too few representatives of non-mammalian land vertebrates to presently permit conclusions regarding the origin of non-decussating pathways.
Identifying Collaborative Competencies

Increasingly, federal organizations must work together with other organizations to jointly produce public value. Thus, it is important for public employees to develop critical collaborative skills....
1-Benzyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (1BnTIQ), An Endogenous Neurotoxin, Induces Dopaminergic Cell Death Through Apoptosis

Endogenous MPTP-like neurotoxins such as 1-benzyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (1BnTIQ) have been suspected in the etiology of Parkinson's disease (PD). 1BnTIQ was found in a concentration three times higher in cerebrospinal fluid of PD brains than control subjects [J. Neurochem. 65 (6) (1995) 2633]. In the present study, we have evaluated the mechanisms of 1BnTIQ toxicity in human dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells and tested the neuroprotective action of SKF-38393, a dopamine receptor (D(1)) agonist. 1BnTIQ dose dependently decreased cell viability in dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells and the extent of cell death was more pronounced when compared to MPP(+). Similar to MPP(+), 1BnTIQ significantly decreased [3H]dopamine uptake. 1BnTIQ significantly increased lipid peroxidation, Bax expression, and active caspase-3 formation. Furthermore, it decreased the expression of Bcl-xL, an anti-apoptotic protein, in these cells. SKF-38393, a dopamine receptor (D(1)) agonist (1 and 10 microM) completely prevented the cell death and significantly increased cell viability. These results strongly suggest that 1BnTIQ induces dopaminergic cell death by apoptosis and dopamine receptor agonists may be useful neuroprotective agents against 1BnTIQ toxicity.
Marine stratocumulus climatologies

Conditions favourable to the formation and maintenance of marine stratocumulus cloud decks commonly occur in the subtropical latitudes off the west coasts of the major continents. The cloud decks over the eastern North and South Pacific and the eastern South Atlantic are well-established examples of the phenomenon; the eastern North Atlantic exhibits rather different behaviour. Large-scale climatological averages based on data extracted from the Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set are remarkably similar in the three of these regions that exhibit well-established marine stratocumulus cloud decks. Off the coast of northwest Africa, however, the sea-surface temperatures are higher and the cloud cover is less overcast than for the other regions. The correlation between interannual changes in clouds and SST is negative in all four areas: years with lower than normal SST tend to be more cloudy. The implication of this for climate system feedbacks is that these clouds have the potential to exert positive feedback in the climate system. A zero-order estimate of the strength of this positive feedback suggests that it could be comparable to that due to water vapour in the atmosphere.
The yeast actin cytoskeleton

Budding and fission yeast present significant advantages for studies of the actin cytoskeleton. The application of classical and molecular genetic techniques provides a facile route for the analysis of structure/function relationships, for the isolation of novel proteins involved in cytoskeletal function, and for deciphering the signals that regulate actin assembly in vivo. This review focuses on the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and also identifies some recent advances from studies on the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, for which studies on the actin cytoskeleton are still in their infancy.
A Question Classification Scale for Marriage and Family Therapy.

This paper proposes a Question Classification Scale (QCS) to permit more discrimination among the types of questions used in marriage and family therapy. The data base for the QCS development consisted of 503 family therapy questions drawn from tapes of eight family therapy experts and four trainees. The QCS was designed after studying question classification systems in philosophy, linguistics, educational research, and individual and family therapy. Each therapist-initiated question is coded in four ways, yielding a simple, yet multidimensional, picture of the therapist's questioning patterns. Future research potential of the QCS is discussed.
The Role of Prices in Measuring the Poor's Living Standards

In this paper, we revisit two pieces of conventional wisdom in the current debate about poverty, paying close attention to the price data underlying these findings: that the poor pay more than households of higher income for the goods and services they purchase; and that poverty rates, at least as measured by the U.S. Census, have remained essentially flat since the late 1960s, raising questions about the success of the policies implemented to reduce poverty. By examining scanner data on thousands of household purchases, we find that the poor pay less —not more—for the goods they purchase. And by extending the advances on price measurement in the recent decade back to the 1970s, we find that current poverty rates are less than half of the official numbers.
Noise Identification and Removal in Positron Imaging Systems

The noise (scattered and random) generated in two positron emission imaging systems has been studied and mathematically modeled as an exponential convolving function. Compton scattering is presumed to be a dominant factor, as opposed to random events. Deconvolution of the sensed data has enabled us to eliminate noise and to obtain images which can be quantified. Further, these images have improved diagnostic quality.
Communication of nonearnings information at the financial statements release date

Abstract This study examines whether annual financial statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission are timely sources of information for investors. We examine a summary measure, the probability of bankruptcy, through which the release of financial statements might communicate information to investors. The results indicate that a significant association exists between revisions in the probability of bankruptcy due to nonearnings data and security returns over the fiscal year, but that investors have largely revised their estimates of the probability of bankruptcy prior to the release of the full financial statements.
Anti-inflammatory IgG Production Requires Functional P1 Promoter in β-Galactoside α2,6-Sialyltransferase 1 (ST6Gal-1) Gene

The anti-inflammatory properties associated with intravenous immunoglobulin therapy require the sialic acid modification of the N-glycan of the Fc domain of IgG. Sialylation of the Fc fragment is mediated by β-galactoside α2,6-sialyltransferase 1 (ST6Gal-1), acting on the Gal(β4)GlcNAc terminal structure of the biantennary N-glycans on the Fc domain. However, little is known regarding the in vivo regulation of Fc sialylation and its role in the progression of inflammatory processes. Here, we report that decreased Fc sialylation of circulatory IgG accompanies the acute phase response elicited by turpentine exposure or upon acute exposure to either nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae or ovalbumin. However, Fc sialylation was increased 3-fold from the base line upon transition to chronic inflammation by repeated exposure to challenge. The P1 promoter of the ST6Gal-1 gene is critical for Fc sialylation, but P1 does not drive ST6Gal-1 expression in B cells. The Siat1ΔP1 mouse, with a dysfunctional P1 promoter, was unable to produce sialylated Fc in the systemic circulation, despite the presence of Gal(β4)GlcNAc termini on the Fc glycans. The major contribution of P1 action is to synthesize ST6Gal-1 enzymes that are deposited into the systemic circulation. The data strongly indicate that this pool of extracellular ST6Gal-1 in the blood impacts the sialylation of IgG Fc and that defective Fc sialylation is likely a major contributing mechanism for the proinflammatory tendencies previously noted in Siat1ΔP1 animals.
Lack of energy compensation over 4 days when white button mushrooms are substituted for beef

Increasing intake of low energy density (ED) foods in place of high ED foods has been proposed as a strategy for preventing or treating obesity. This study investigated how substituting mushrooms for beef in a test lunch affected energy intake, fat intake, palatability, appetite, satiation and satiety in normal weight, overweight and obese adults. Each subject consumed a total of eight test lunches in our lab over two consecutive weeks. The order of presentation of four consecutive meat lunches and four consecutive mushroom lunches was randomized. Energy content of meat and mushroom lunches varied (783 kcal versus 339 kcal), while volume was held constant. Energy intakes were significantly higher during meat lunches than mushroom lunches (730 ± 7.9 kcal versus 310 ± 5.8 kcal). Subjects exhibited only partial compensation (11.4 ± 12.0%) for this difference over 4 days. Total daily energy intake and fat intake were significantly greater in the meat condition than in the mushroom condition, while ratings of palatability, appetite, satiation and satiety did not differ significantly. These results suggest that substituting low ED foods for high ED foods in otherwise similar recipes can be an effective method for reducing daily energy and fat intake.
Arsenite induces p70S6K1 activation and HIF-1α expression in prostate cancer cells

Arsenite is ubiquitous in the environment, particularly in the form of contaminated water. Although this metal is a known human carcinogen, its exact mechanism of action remains unclear. P70S6K1 phosphorylates the ribosomal 40S protein leading to increased protein translation, and is an important regulator of cell growth and proliferation. Hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor composed of two subunits, HIF-1α and HIF-1β. HIF-1 activates the transcription of a number of genes that mediate angiogenesis and tumor formation. In this study we demonstrated that arsenite treatment increased levels of p70S6K1 phosphorylation and p70S6K1 activity in a PI3K and mTOR sensitive manner. We have also shown that arsenite specifically induces HIF-1α, but not HIF-1β, protein levels in prostate cancer cells in a mTOR-dependent manner.
Phototoxic reactions caused by sodium fluorescein.

Purpose To report three cases of phototoxic reactions to intravenous fluorescein for retinal angiography and to describe provocative testing in a volunteer. Methods Three patients with phototoxic reactions were interviewed, and one volunteer underwent a controlled challenge test by applying a potent sunscreen and exposing skin areas to direct sunlight before and after fluorescein administration. Results All patients experienced marked cutaneous erythema, edema, and pain to sun-exposed areas within 1 hour of exposure. The reaction faded during a variable period of time, and one case resulted in mild epidermal desquamation and prolonged discomfort. We noted minimal skin changes in the volunteer who was exposed to the sun before fluorescein administration; however, marked blanching erythema and pain were noted after fluorescein administration and sunlight. CONCLUSIONS: Consistent with its in vitro properties as a photodynamic dye, fluorescein may rarely act as a phototoxic agent in humans at doses employed for fluorescein angiography.
Parental Mental Disorder and Children's Functioning: Silence and Communication, Stigma and Resilience

In this article I argue that narrative accounts of the effects of parental mental disorder (particularly mood disturbance) on children's functioning may provide unprecedented windows on crucial issues of silence, stigmatization, diagnosis, etiology, and treatment, which can mutually inform empirical research efforts. In publishing a book-length account of the life of my father, The Years of Silence are Past (Hinshaw, 2002b), I departed from my usual academic writings and gave voice to a complex and troubling life history, marked by misdiagnosed bipolar disorder and misguided treatment that lasted 40 years. Herein, I focus on the ramifications of this narrative for scientific and clinical efforts in the field, including the still-prevalent stigmatization and silence surrounding mental disorder, the great need for accurate diagnosis and responsive treatment, the complex and transactional web of biological and environmental risk factors that exist for mental disturbance, the blending of inner experience with social realities regarding symptom content, the resilience and strength that can accompany mental disorder, and the ways in which parents with mental disturbance can promote active communication with their offspring. Narrative accounts may be particularly important in reducing silence and in framing the next generation of empirical research questions; blending qualitative and quantitative methods may help address crucial goals related to child functioning in the presence of parental mental disorder.
Analyses of liquid rocket instabilities using a computational testbed

A synergistic hierarchy of numerical and analytical models is used to simulate three-dimensional combustioninstability in liquid rocket engines. Existing phenomenological models for vaporization and atomization are used in quasi-steady form to describe the liquid phase processes. In addition to a complete nonlinear numerical model, linearized numerical and closed-form analytical models are used to validate the numerical solution and to obtain intial estimates of stable and unstable operating regimes. All three models are fully three dimensional. The simultaneous application of these approaches permits computationally inexpensive surveys to be performed in rapid parametric fashion for a wide variety of operating conditions. Stability maps obtained from the computations indicate that, when droplet temperature fluctuations are present, vaporization and atomization can drive instability. The presence of droplet temperature fluctuations introduces areas of instability for smaller drop sizes and colder drop temperatures. The computational procedures are demonstrated to accurately capture the three-dimensional wave propagation within the combustion chamber. The validated results indicate excellent amplitude and phase agreement for properly selected grid resolution. The nonlinear model demonstrates limit cycle behavior for growing waves and wave steepening for large-amplitude disturbances. The current work represents a validated computational testbed upon which more comprehensive physical modeling may be incorporated.
The expanded inframammary fold triangle: Improved results in large volume breast reductions

Context: The inferior pedicle, Wise-pattern reduction mammaplasty is the most popular technique for breast reduction because of its reproducible results and reliability. However, complication rates in super obese patients or patients receiving large volume reductions are high, ranging from 35 to 78%. These complications include delayed healing, infection, seroma, nipple-areolar complex necrosis, fat necrosis and development of hypertrophic scars. Aims: This study aimed to determine whether a modification to the standard Wise-pattern reduction technique, an expanded inframammary fold skin triangle, produces improved outcomes in high-risk large volume breast reduction patients. We report that this modification leads to improved outcomes by decreasing wound complications and improving aesthetic appearance. Settings and Design: Twenty-two patients received the inferior pedicle Wise-pattern reduction mammaplasty, which was modified to include an 8 cm wide inferior pedicle. This pedicle was de-epithelialized and an 8 Χ 3 cm 2 triangle of skin was preserved at the inferior base to reduce tension at the triple point, inverted T-closure. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review was performed on all patients who underwent reduction mammaplasty with the expanded inframammary fold (eIMF) technique as well as all patients who received the standard wise pattern technique. Statistical Analysis Used: A student t-test was performed for both reduction populations using SPSS software package. Statistical significance was defined as P < 0.05. Results: The average patient age was 32.25 years old (range 18-59), average BMI was 35.0, and average tissue mass removed per breast was 1378.39 g. The modified technique was found to produce a statistically significant (P < 0.05) increase in the amount of breast tissue removed (693.96 g increase in the left and 571.21 g in the right) as well as a statistically significant (P < 0.05) reduction in dehiscence (75% reduction) and post-operative infection (44.10%). Conclusions: This method is an easily reproducible and reliable technique that produces a favourable cosmetic outcome with acceptable, sustainable results in high-risk reductions in obese patients.
Heat Transfer From a Translating Droplet at High Peclet Numbers: Revisiting the Classic Solution of Kronig & Brink

More than five decades ago Kronig and Brink published a classic analysis of transport from translating droplets. Their analysis assumed that the bulk of the resistance to transfer was in the droplet phase. It considered the limiting solution as the Peclet number became very large. Their work has been cited in many subsequent studies of droplet transfer. The present work revisits their solution using numerical techniques that were not then available. It was found that only the first mode of their solution is mathematically accurate. Hence, their solution is accurate only at large times.
ORGANIC AGGREGATES IN SEAWATER AND THE DYNAMICS OF THEIR FORMATION AND UTILIZATION

Much of the nonliving particulate organic matter in seawater consists of delicate, plate-like aggregates ranging in size from about 5 µ to several mm in diameter. The aggregates are amorphous matrices containing both organic and inorganic materials, with inclusions of bacteria and phytoplankton. Descriptive information herein deals primarily with a two-year series of observations in Long Island Sound. A consistent bimodal seasonal cycle has been found, with peaks in winter and early summer. These aggregates appear to be formed mainly by adsorption of dissolved organic matter on bubbles and other naturally occurring surfaces in the sea, a process readily duplicated under experimental conditions. Naturally occurring aggregates provide a substrate for bacterial growth and probably food for animals. They are present during certain seasons when phytoplankton is scarce and probably serve an important function as supplementary food for zooplankton under such circumstances. The presence of aggregates is an oceanic as well as a coastal phenomenon and is believed to have general ecological significance. A concept is developed that the reversible reaction between dissolved and particulate matter tends to stabilize the marine association, and there are suggestions of community adaptation in the development of this system.
Rinse liquid to improve pattern collapse behavior

We designed and prepared a test mask to study a pattern collapse (PC) and investigated a rinse dependency. We report the effect of surfactant and solvent in rinse. The collapse behavior was quantified in terms of the first collapsed critical dimension (FCCD) in 90nm L/S ArF resist patterns. In-house rinse liquids (SE series) showed relatively lower surface tension (ST) compared to commercial one. They greatly reduced pattern collapse behavior (PCB) of from FCCD 102nm to 85nm L/S using these solutions. However, SE-100 showed defect by bubble and the others show bad compatibility with photoresist. SES-100 is the only rinse liquid candidate in this experiment.
Trigonometric Maximum Likelihood Estimation and Application to the Analysis of Incomplete Survival Information

Abstract A procedure is derived for computing maximum likelihood estimates from the sample trigonometric moments. Several examples are given which demonstrate the convenience of this hybrid approach. The Zippin-Armitage method for dealing with incomplete survival information is generalized. A simple expression is obtained for the survival curve given nonparametric estimators of (1) the probability density of survival times for patients who have died, and (2) the probability density of known survival times for patients still alive. It is shown that this new estimator approaches the Kaplan-Meier product limit as the sample size approaches infinity.
Transcription during cell differentiation in Naegleria gruberi. Preferential synthesis of messenger RNA.

Amebae of Naegleria gruberi undergo phenotypic transformation into flagellates when the aqueous environment is changed from axenic growth medium to non-nutrient buffer. This differentiation, which requires 80 min at 25 °C, is dependent on transcription during the first 40 min. The nature of the RNA synthesized during differentiation is the subject of this report. Net synthesis of RNA continues for the first 30 min after differentiation is initiated, but thereafter degradation exceeds synthesis leading to an overall decrease of 6 % in total RNA per cell by 90 min. [14C]-Uracil is incorporated into RNA during differentiation. Incorporation is linear until roughly 10 min before the appearance of flagella, at which time the rate of incorporation declines. Sucrose gradient analysis has been used to compare the RNA synthesized by cells differentiating in buffer versus amebae in growth medium. There is proportionally more synthesis of messenger-like RNA and less of rRNA in differentiating cells. The messenger-like RNA synthesized during differentiation is heterogeneous in size, but very large molecules (> 45 S) have not been found. This rapidlylabeled RNA is first present in the nucleoplasm, and moves rapidly to the cytoplasm, reaching equilibrium (nucleuscytoplasm) within 10 min. In the cytoplasm it is found associated with polysomes, where it has the EDTA and ribonuclease sensitivity expected of mRNA. These observations support the interpretation that the rapidlylabeled RNA is mRNA. It is not yet known whether this mRNA includes the RNA essential for differentiation.
Radio-frequency ablation of small renal tumors: minimum follow up of 1 year

OBJECTIVE: With the increased utility of complex imaging modalities small renal tumors are being diagnosed with rising frequency. We performed radiofrequency ablation to treat tumors less than 4cm in size using a combination of temperature, impedance, ultrasound and laparoscopic guidance. In this article we reviewed the outcome of radiofrequency ablation of renal tumors at one year at our institution. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Over a three-year period 75 patients with a total of 93 renal tumors underwent radiofrequency ablation. Average patient age was 64.5 years with ASA of 2.9. Indications for nephron sparing were imperative in 33 (solitary kidney 21, renal insufficiency 12). Seventeen patients had significant co-morbidities with ASA score of 3 or more and were thought to be poor candidates for nephrectomy or partial nephrectomy. Five were Jehovah's Witness patients. Average tumor size was 3.2 cm (1.5-4.0). 60% of the tumors were exophytic and 40% deep. Radiofrequency ablation was performed via a transperitoneal approach using the single pronged 3cm Cool tip electrode (Radionics Inc). Tumor was isolated laparoscopically. Prior to ablation the lesions were biopsied. Ablation was performed using both laparoscopic and real-time ultrasound imaging of the boarders of the tumor. During ablation impedance and temperature monitoring was performed. For each tumor two separate ablations were performed at perpendicular angles, the first ablation was for 6 minutes and the second for 3 minutes. The center and periphery of the tumor was monitored to insure that the temperature rose above 70 degrees Celsius. Patients were followed at three-month intervals with triple phase CT scan or MRI to evaluate efficacy of the ablation. Our criteria for recurrent tumor were growth or enhancement of the lesion. RESULTS: Average operative time was 109 minutes with and average EBL of <25cc. Mean hospital stay was 1.4 days. At average follow up of 19.2 months (range 2-24), one lesion showed evidence of tumor recurrence which was corrected surgically. Two masses did show some mild enhancement on CT 6 months post operatively, biopsies showed no evidence of tumor with fibrosis. Of the patients with follow up of greater than 12 months 75% had decreasing size of the lesion, 25% had no change in size. No complications were seen. CONCLUSIONS: Radiofrequency ablation of renal tumors is a feasible alternative for patients that have imperative indication for nephron sparing surgery or those that have significant co-morbidities. The procedure is expedient, efficacious and carries minimal morbidity. It is of extreme importance to follow these patients closely with imaging of the lesion on a frequent basis.
Reduced reciprocal inhibition during assisted stepping in human spinal cord injury

Abstract The aim of this study was to establish the modulation pattern of the reciprocal inhibition exerted from tibialis anterior (TA) group I afferents onto soleus motoneurons during body weight support (BWS) assisted stepping in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). During assisted stepping, the soleus H-reflex was conditioned by percutaneous stimulation of the ipsilateral common peroneal nerve at one fold TA M-wave motor threshold with a single pulse delivered at a short conditioning-test interval. To counteract movement of recording and stimulating electrodes, a supramaximal stimulus at 80–100 ms after the test H-reflex was delivered. Stimuli were randomly dispersed across the step cycle which was divided into 16 equal bins. The conditioned soleus H-reflex was significantly facilitated throughout the stance phase, while during swing no significant changes on the conditioned H-reflex were observed when compared to the unconditioned soleus H-reflex recorded during stepping. Spontaneous clonic activity in triceps surae muscle occurred in multiple phases of the step cycle at a mean frequency of 7 Hz for steps with and without stimulation. This suggests that electrical excitation of TA and soleus group Ia afferents did not contribute to manifestation of ankle clonus. Absent reciprocal inhibition is likely responsible for lack of soleus H-reflex depression in swing phase observed in these patients. The pronounced reduced reciprocal inhibition in stance phase may contribute to impaired levels of co-contraction of antagonistic ankle muscles. Based on these findings, we suggest that rehabilitation should selectively target to transform reciprocal facilitation to inhibition through computer controlled reflex conditioning protocols.
An ARIMA-Model-Based Approach to Seasonal Adjustment

Abstract This article proposes a model-based procedure to decompose a time series uniquely into mutually independent additive seasonal, trend, and irregular noise components. The series is assumed to follow the Gaussian ARIMA model. Properties of the procedure are discussed and an actual example is given.
The use of EPID-measured leaf sequence files for IMRT dose reconstruction in adaptive radiation therapy

For intensity modulated radiation treatment (IMRT) dose reconstruction, multileaf collimator (MLC) log files have been shown applicable for deriving delivered fluence maps. However, MLC log files are dependent on the accuracy of leaf calibration and only available from one linear accelerator manufacturer. This paper presents a proof of feasibility and principles in (1) using an amorphous silicon electronic portal imaging device (aSi-EPID) to capture the MLC segments during an IMRT delivery and (2) reconstituting a leaf sequence (LS) file based on the leaf end positions calculated from the MLC segments and their associated fractional monitor units. These EPID-measured LS files are then used to derive delivered fluence maps for dose reconstruction. The developed approach was tested on a pelvic phantom treated with a typical prostate IMRT plan. The delivered fluence maps, which were derived from the EPID-measured LS files, showed slight differences in the intensity levels compared with the corresponding planned ones. The dose distribution calculated with the delivered fluence maps showed a discernible difference in the high dose region when compared to that calculated with the planned fluence maps. The maximum dose in the former distribution was also 2.5% less than that in the latter one. The EPID-measured LS file can serve the same purpose as a MLC log files does for the derivation of the delivered fluence map and yet is independent of the leaf calibration. The approach also allows users who do not have access to MLC log files to probe the actual IMRT delivery and translate the information gained for dose reconstruction in adaptive radiation therapy.
Introduction to the Special Issue on Negotiation Processes: Modeling Frameworks and Information Technology

The INFORMS (formerly TIMS) Section on Group Decision and Negotiation sponsored a Negotiation Writing Project on the theme, “Negotiation Processes: Modeling Frameworks and Information Technology,” leading to a group of sessions at the TIMS/ORSA Boston meeting, April 24–27, 1994. The articles published here derive from this project.
Impact of lymph node staging on therapy of esophageal carcinoma

Background & Aims: Therapy of esophageal carcinoma is stage dependent. The role of EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS FNA) in this setting is unclear. The aims of this study were to compare the performance characteristics of CT, EUS, and EUS FNA for preoperative nodal staging of esophageal carcinoma and to measure the impact of each staging test on treatment decisions. Methods: From December 1999 to March 2001, all patients with esophageal carcinoma seen at the Mayo Clinic Rochester were prospectively evaluated with CT, EUS, and EUS FNA. The impact of tumor stage on final therapy was assessed. Results: A total of 125 patients with esophageal carcinoma were enrolled. EUS FNA was more sensitive (83% vs. 29%; P < 0.001) than CT and more accurate than CT (87% vs. 51%; P < 0.001) or EUS (87% vs. 74%; P = 0.012) for nodal staging. Direct surgical resection was contraindicated in 77% of patients evaluated due to advanced locoregional/metastatic disease. Tumor location, patient age, comorbidities, and tumor stage determined by CT, EUS, and EUS FNA were associated with treatment decisions (P < 0.05). EUS FNA resulting in a higher/worse stage than CT (41 patients) was associated with a greater rate of treatments that were not direct surgeries compared with cases in which the stage was the same or better. Conclusions: EUS FNA is more accurate for nodal staging and impacts on therapy of patients with esophageal carcinoma. EUS FNA should be included in the preoperative staging algorithm of these patients.
Effects of Tongue Force Training on Orolingual Motor Cortical Representation

Previous research has demonstrated that training rats in a skilled reaching condition will induce task-related changes in the caudal forelimb area (CFA) of motor cortex. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether task-specific changes can be induced within the orofacial area of the motor cortex in rats. Specifically, we compared changes of the orofacial motor cortical representation in lick-trained rats to age-matched controls. For 1 month, six water-restricted Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to lick an isometric force-sensing disc at increasing forces for water reinforcement. The rats were trained daily for 6 min starting with forces of 1g, and increasing over the course of the month to 10, 15, 20, 25 and finally 30 g. One to three days following the last training session, the animals were subjected to a neurophysiological motor mapping procedure in which motor representations corresponding to the orofacial and adjacent areas were defined using intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) techniques. We found no statistical difference in the topographical representation of the control (mean=2.03 mm(2)) vs. trained (1.87 mm(2)) rats. This result indicates that force training alone is insufficient to drive changes in the size of the cortical representation. We also recorded the minimum current threshold required to elicit a motor response at each site of microstimulation. We found that the lick-trained rats had a significantly lower average minimum threshold (29.1+/-1.0 microA) for evoking movements related to the task compared to control rats (34.6+/-1.1 microA). These results indicate that while tongue force training alone does not produce lasting changes in the size of the orofacial cortical motor representation, tongue force training decreases the current thresholds necessary for eliciting an ICMS-evoked motor response.
Dependence of the internal relaxation time for DNA on salt type as inferred by quasielastic light scattering

Quasielastic light scattering methods were used to study calf thymus DNA in solutions of LiCl, NaCl, NH4Ac, and NH4Cl. Plots of the reciprocal relaxation time (1/τ) vs sin2(θ/2), where θ is the scattering angle, exhibit two linear regions, in accordance with theories for semiflexible polymers based on the t 0 approximation. In these theories the slope of the linear region at low angles is associated with the translational diffusion coefficient (Dt), whereas the slope of the linear region at high angles is associated with the segmental diffusion coefficient (Ds = kT/ƒs). The midpoint of the “transition” between these two linear regions is associated with the mean displacement between segments (b). Data presented here indicate that the Rouse-Zimm parameters b and ƒs are significantly different for DNA in 0.4M NH4Cl relative to the other salts at comparable ionic strengths. It is suggested that this difference reflects local solvent structure and that both b and Ds are sensitive to the local water structure.
Homework Purposes Reported by Secondary School Students: A Multilevel Analysis

ABSTRACT The author examined purposes for doing homework as perceived by 969 eighth–grade students from 52 classes and 831 11th-grade students from 45 classes. Through an exploratory factor analysis, 15 homework purposes were reduced to a 3-factor structure: peer-oriented, adult-oriented, and learning-oriented reasons. A series of 3 multilevel models were run, with each derived factor serving as the dependent variable. All three factors were positively associated with homework interest, teacher feedback, affective attitude toward homework, and family homework help. Adult-oriented and learning-oriented reasons were negatively associated with homework distraction. Boys reported statistically significantly lower scores in adult-oriented and learning-oriented reasons than did girls. Finally, older students were more likely to do homework for peer-oriented and learning-oriented reasons.
Spectral properties of three-mirror laser resonators

The spatial-mode and spectral-mode properties of a general three-mirror resonator with collinearly aligned cavity mirrors have been studied. It has been found that the resonator spatial mode can be controlled through engineering the complex reflectivity of the resonator mirrors. Further study reveals strong correlation between spatial modes and spectral modes of a three-mirror resonator. Strong spectral selectivity can be achieved with proper engineering of the spatial mode.
SATELLITE LIFETIMES UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF CONTINUOUS THRUST, ATMOSPHERIC DRAG, AND PLANET OBLATENESS

Approximate analytic solutions are obtained for the lifetimes of satellites in either circular or elliptical orbits under the influence of continuous tangential thrust, atmospheric drag, and planet oblateness. The cases treated are those in which the satellite mission requires the perigee of the orbit to remain within fixed bounds in altitude and position. For circular orbits it is found that, to increase greatly the useful life time over the nonthrusting case, an almost perfect matching of thrust to drag is required. Two solutions are obtained for elliptical orbits. The first requires that the thrust level over each revolution be the value needed to hold the perigee fixed. Extremely low thrust levels are found over most of the lifetime while increases in lifetime on the order of 30% over the nonthrusting case result. The second case considers thrusting at a constant level over a symmetrical arc about perigee; the length of the arc for each cycle being determined by the condition that the perigee remain fixed. Greatly increased lifetimes over the nonthrusting case and the preceding case are obtained with low mass consumption and small thrust-to-drag ratios. Expressions for the forces required to provide a secular change of the line of nodes, the line of apsides, and the inclination including the effect of planet oblateness are given and several examples are calculated.
Differential association in group and solo offending

The relationship between association with deviant peers and offending is a longstanding interest in criminology, however, the mechanisms that produce the relationship are seldom investigated. As a result, theoretical links between differential association and offending are often speculative. Differential association theorists maintain that interaction with deviant peers results in cognitive changes that make offending more attractive. Others contend that peers' influence on offending is enacted via group situations where associates encourage crime by offering opportunities or situational inducements. Using data from the National Youth Survey (NYS), this study explored the influence of delinquent friends' behaviors and attitudes on general, group, and solo offending for three crimes. OLS regression analyses supported differential association theory as originally written and no evidence was found that its effects were contingent on the presence of co-offenders. Implications of this exploratory analysis for differential association theory are provided along with directions for future research.
Visualizing the determinants of viral RNA recognition by innate immune sensor RIG-I

Summary Retinoic acid inducible gene-I (RIG-I) is a key intracellular immune receptor for pathogenic RNAs, particularly from RNA viruses. Here, we report the crystal structure of human RIG-I bound to a 5′ triphosphorylated RNA hairpin and ADP nucleotide at 2.8 A resolution. The RNA ligand contains all structural features that are essential for optimal recognition by RIG-I, as it mimics the panhandle-like signatures within the genome of negative-stranded RNA viruses. RIG-I adopts an intermediate, semiclosed conformation in this product state of ATP hydrolysis. The structure of this complex allows us to visualize the first steps in RIG-I recognition and activation upon viral infection.
A Numerical Model of the Effects of Seeding on the Evolution of a Lake-Effect Storm

Abstract The simulation of crystal growth by diffusion and by accretion of cloud droplets is incorporated into the Lavoie mesoscale numerical model for lake-effect storms. The model also allows simulation of seeding and its effect on changing the precipitation growth mode from riming to diffusion. Precipitation particle trajectories are computed so that the effects of seeding on snowfall distribution can be simulated. The model's predictions agree well with observations of nonseeded cases and, in terms of computer time, the model is sufficiently practical to allow experimentation with various seeding strategies under various meteorological conditions. Numerical seeding experiments with the model indicate that optimum seeding strategies can shift the characteristic localized heavy snowfalls to areas where their effect will be less damaging.
Improved respiratory delivery of the anticancer drugs, camptothecin and paclitaxel, with 5% CO2-enriched air: pharmacokinetic studies.

Purpose: To increase pulmonary deposition of anticancer liposome aerosols in mice by modulation of respiratory physiology through the addition of 5% CO2 to the air source used to generate the aerosols. Breathing CO2-enriched aerosol increases pulmonary ventilation with concurrent increased deposition of inhaled particles. Methods: Dilauroylphosphatidylcholine liposome formulations of two anticancer drugs, paclitaxel (PTX) and camptothecin (CPT), were investigated. The aerosol droplet size was measured using an Andersen cascade impactor. Drug concentrations in aerosol droplet fractions and tissues were determined by HPLC analysis. ICR mice were exposed to each liposome aerosol for 30 min. For each drug, one group of mice inhaled the drug-liposome aerosol generated with a mixture of 5% CO2 in air and another group inhaled the drug-liposome aerosols produced with normal air. Tissue distribution and pharmacokinetics were determined for both drug delivery systems. Results: Significantly higher concentrations of PTX and CPT were found in organs of mice exposed to 5% CO2-air aerosols compared to organs of mice exposed to normal air aerosols. The highest concentrations of drug were detected in the lungs and were two- to fourfold higher with 5% CO2-air aerosols than with aerosols generated with normal air. Higher concentrations were also detected in liver, spleen, kidneys, blood, and brain. Conclusion: 5% CO2 enrichment of air increased respiratory tract deposition of inhaled aerosol particles containing PTX and CPT.
Multiple roles for Hedgehog signaling in zebrafish pituitary development.

Abstract The endocrine-secreting lobe of the pituitary gland, or adenohypophysis, forms from cells at the anterior margin of the neural plate through inductive interactions involving secreted morphogens of the Hedgehog (Hh), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) families. To better understand when and where Hh signaling influences pituitary development, we have analyzed the effects of blocking Hh signaling both pharmacologically (cyclopamine treatments) and genetically (zebrafish Hh pathway mutants). While current models state that Shh signaling from the oral ectoderm patterns the pituitary after placode induction, our data suggest that Shh plays a direct early role in both pituitary induction and patterning, and that early Hh signals comes from adjacent neural ectoderm. We report that Hh signaling is necessary between 10 and 15 h of development for induction of the zebrafish adenohypophysis, a time when shh is expressed only in neural tissue. We show that the Hh responsive genes ptc1 and nk2.2 are expressed in preplacodal cells at the anterior margin of the neural tube at this time, indicating that these cells are directly receiving Hh signals. Later (15–20 h) cyclopamine treatments disrupt anterior expression of nk2.2 and Prolactin, showing that early functional patterning requires Hh signals. Consistent with a direct role for Hh signaling in pituitary induction and patterning, overexpression of Shh results in expanded adenohypophyseal expression of lim3, expansion of nk2.2 into the posterior adenohypophysis, and an increase in Prolactin- and Somatolactin-secreting cells. We also use the zebrafish Hh pathway mutants to document the range of pituitary defects that occur when different elements of the Hh signaling pathway are mutated. These defects, ranging from a complete loss of the adenohypophysis ( smu/smo and yot/gli2 mutants) to more subtle patterning defects ( dtr/gli1 mutants), may correlate to human Hh signaling mutant phenotypes seen in Holoprosencephaly and other congenital disorders. Our results reveal multiple and distinct roles for Hh signaling in the formation of the vertebrate pituitary gland, and suggest that Hh signaling from neural ectoderm is necessary for induction and functional patterning of the vertebrate pituitary gland.
Dimethyl sulfoxide, but not acidosis-induced metallothionein mRNA expression in neonatal rat primary astrocyte cultures is inhibited by the bioflavonoid, quercetin

Metallothionein (MT) mRNA levels were analyzed following exposure of neonatal rat primary astrocyte cultures to physiologic pH (7.4), acidosis (pH 6.5 and 6.0), and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Treatments were carried out both in the presence and absence of the bioflavonoid, quercetin. Total RNA was probed on northern blots with [alpha32P]dCTP-labeled synthetic cDNA probes specific for rat MT isoform mRNAs. MT-I and MT-II mRNA levels in astrocytes exposed to pH 6.5 or pH 6.0 were increased compared to controls (pH 7.4). Treatment with DMSO in the presence and absence of acidosis, also increased MT-I and MT-II mRNA levels compared to controls (pH 7.4). The DMSO-induced increase in MT mRNA expression was reversed by treatment of astrocytes with quercetin, such that MT-I and MT-II mRNA levels in DMSO plus quercetin-treated astrocytes were indistinguishable from mRNA levels in their respective controls at pH 7.4, pH 6.5, and pH 6.0. These findings suggest that both acidosis and DMSO exposure are associated with increased astrocytic MT synthesis at the mRNA level, and that quercetin, effectively blocks MT mRNA induction by DMSO.