cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Training native English speakers to perceive Japanese length contrasts in word versus sentence contexts.

This study investigated whether native speakers of American English with no knowledge of Japanese could learn to perceive Japanese vowel and consonant length distinctions through auditory training with immediate feedback. One group of participants was trained to identify the number of moras in Japanese words spoken in isolation (word training), and another group in sentences (sentence training). Trained groups’ pretest and post-test scores in the words-in-isolation context (word context) and the words-in-sentences context (sentence context) were compared to those of an untrained control group. The questions addressed were whether there was an overall effect of training, and whether there were differential effects of two types of training. Both trained groups showed similar improvement in their overall test scores. The results suggested that learning in one context generalized to the other. However, an advantage of sentence training over word training was found: at the post-test, there was a greater difference between the scores of the two contexts for the word-training group than for the sentence-training group. The results are discussed in terms of the factors that might contribute to the differences in second language learning between the word and the sentence contexts.
An essential heparin-binding domain in the fibroblast growth factor receptor kinase

Heparin or heparin-like heparan sulfate proteoglycans are obligatory for activity of the heparin-binding fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family. Heparin interacts independently of FGF ligand with a specific sequence (K18K) in one of the immunoglobulin-like loops in the extracellular domain of the FGF receptor tyrosine kinase transmembrane glycoprotein. A synthetic peptide corresponding to K18K inhibited heparin and heparin-dependent FGF binding to the receptor. K18K and an antibody to K18K were antagonists of FGF-stimulated cell growth. Point mutations of lysine residues in the K18K sequence abrogated both heparin- and ligand-binding activities of the receptor kinase. The results indicate that the FGF receptor is a ternary complex of heparan sulfate proteoglycan, tyrosine kinase transmembrane glycoprotein, and ligand.
Antigen-specific B memory cell responses to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and invasion plasmid antigen (Ipa) B elicited in volunteers vaccinated with live-attenuated Shigella flexneri 2a vaccine candidates.

We evaluated B memory responses in healthy adult volunteers who received one oral dose of live-attenuated Shigella flexneri 2a vaccine. LPS-specific BM cells increased from a median of 0 at baseline to 20 spot forming cells (SFC)/106 expanded cells following vaccination (p = 0.008). A strong correlation was found between post-vaccination anti-LPS BM cell counts and peak serum anti-LPS IgG titers (rs = 0.95, p = 0.0003). Increases in BM specific for IpaB approaching significance were also observed. In sum, oral vaccination with live-attenuated S. flexneri 2a elicits BM cells to LPS and IpaB, suggesting that BM responses to Shigella antigens should be further studied as a suitable surrogate of protection in shigellosis.
Acquired Ichthyosis With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

The occurrence of acquired ichthyosis in adults with systemic disease has previously been reported in Hodgkin's disease,1,2other lymphoreticular malignant neoplasms,3multiple myeloma,3Kaposi's sarcoma,4carcinoma of the lung, breast, and cervix,5leprosy,6and sarcoidosis.7It has also been reported in patients receiving triparanol therapy.8To the best of our knowledge, however, the association of acquired ichthyosis with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has not been described previously. Acquired ichthyosis developed in our patient as the only cutaneous manifestation of lupus, and the dermatosis followed a clinical course similar to that of the patient's underlying disease. Report of a Case A 26-year-old woman was admitted to the Durham (NC) Veterans Administration Hospital in July 1979 for reevaluation of renal disease caused by SLE. In June 1978, the patient had symptoms of malaise, recurrent fever, polyarthralgias, Raynaud's phenomenon, and pleurisy with cardiomegaly of three
Coresident Sibling Composition and the Academic Ability, Expectations, and Performance of Youth:

This study examines the effects of living with “nontraditional” siblings (i.e., step- and/or half-siblings) on the verbal ability scores, grade point averages (GPAs), and college expectations of adolescents and whether sibling composition effects are moderated by family structure. On average, youth who live with step- or half-siblings report significantly poorer outcomes than youth who do not. The sibling composition effects on verbal ability scores and grades are similar in direction and magnitude across family types. The association between nontraditional siblings and the college expectations of youth, however, appear to be conditioned by family structure, such that youth living with two biological parents or single mothers are negatively affected by the presence of half-siblings and the expectations of youth living in stepfather families are negatively affected by the presence of step-siblings. The mechanisms underlying sibling composition effects on academic-related outcomes also vary by family structure.
Organic/Inorganic Hybrid Composites from Cubic Silsesquioxanes

A new class of epoxy nanocomposites with completely defined organic/inorganic phases was prepared by reacting octakis(glycidyldimethylsiloxy)octasilsesquioxane [(glydicylMe2SiOSiO1.5)8] (OG) with diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM) at various compositional ratios. The effects of reaction curing conditions on nanostructural organization and mechanical properties were explored. A commercial epoxy resin based on the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) was used as a reference material throughout these studies. FTIR was used to follow the curing process and to demonstrate that the silsesquioxane structure is preserved during processing. OG/DDM composites possess comparable tensile moduli (E) and fracture toughness (KIC) to, and better thermal stabilities than, DGEBA/DDM cured under similar conditions. Dynamic mechanical analysis and model reaction studies suggest that the maximum cross-link density is obtained at N = 0.5 (NH2:epoxy groups = 0.5) whereas the mechanical properties are maximized at N = 1.0. Digestio...
Thermal diffusion of Cr2+ in bulk ZnSe

Abstract Cr 2+ :ZnSe is now known as a room-temperature widely tunable solid-state mid-infrared laser material. Optimization of laser performance requires first and foremost optimization of the Cr 2+ -doping level in the crystals. A simple theoretical model has been developed for evaluation of the thermal diffusivity of Cr 2+ ions in bulk ZnSe single crystals and polycrystalline window materials, from optical absorption measurements in the 1200–2800 nm spectral region. Sputtered metallic chromium and powders have been used as dopant sources. Diffusion appears to be faster in polycrystalline materials than in single crystals for annealing temperatures below 910°C. The activation energy, which is lower in polycrystals, depends on the nature of the dopant source. For mid-IR laser application, the model predicts for example, non-negligible optical losses due to passive self-absorption in the 2000–3000 nm spectral region for chromium-doped polycrystalline materials after annealing at temperatures above 900°C for 1.75 days.
[2,3,4,6,6-2H5]-d-glucose as a general probe for sugar transformations in microbial metabolism: Application to the biosynthesis of sarubicin A, blasticidin S, and streptothricin F

Abstract [2,3,4,6,6- 2 H 5 ]- d -Glucose, 2c, was shown to be a general probe for metabolism in Streptomyces leading to modified sugar units in secondary metabolites. Three antibiotics were studied in this regard: sarubicin A, blasticidin S, and streptothricin F—produced by Streptomyces helicus, S. griseochromogenes , and S. L-1689-23, respectively. Analysis of labeled antibiotics was by 2 H NMR spectroscopy. Incorporation of 2c into sarubicin A resulted in deuterium enrichments at H-7 cis and at the methyl group, while incorporation of 2c into blasticidin S resulted in deuterium enrichments at H-6, -7, -12, -14, and the N -methyl group. In each case the labelings could be interpreted by rational metabolisms. Incorporation of 2c into streptothricin F led to extensive labeling of other portions of the molecule not directly derived from glucose, and the 2 H NMR spectrum was not interpretable.
Purification of Cytoplasmic Chicken Pituitary Granules with Gonadotropic Activity

Abstract THE RESULTS of work during recent years agree with the term “avian pituitary pattern” propsed by Rahn and Painter (1941) for the arrangement of cells in the pituitary glands of birds. This pattern consists of two lobes, namely cephalic and caudal, with the acidophilic cells distributed in both lobes and the basophils appearing throughout the gland but apparently concentrated in the cephalic lobe. These observations have been reported in a more extensive, comparative study by Wingstrand (1951) which included observations on chickens. Payne (1942) and others have also confirmed this pattern in the domestic fowl. Although the functional significance of these cell types is not fully understood, studies of the anterior pituitary glands of birds under different experimental and physiological conditions form the basis for the current hypothesis relating specific hormonal secretions to specific cell types. This report is concerned with the presentation of results obtained by the fractionation of …
The use of strain gradient theory for analysis of random media

Abstract In this paper we consider the equations governing the response to a forcing field of an infinite statistically homogeneous medium with small fluctuations in the constants of elasticity. These equations were previously derived by Beran and McCoy [1], The solution is obtained for the problem of a point force in an infinite medium and an analysis is presented to determine the ability of first strain gradient theory to approximate this solution. It is shown that a valid approximation can be obtained for the “slowly” varying (in space) portion of the solution only if the square of the lengths introduced in gradient theory for an isotropic centrosymmetric material are negative. This requirement violates the requirement that the strain energy density of the gradient theory be positive definite. Further consequences of choosing these lengths to be imaginary are considered. The value of going to higher order gradient theories is also discussed.
Nutritional evaluation of Zambia indigenous soy bean (Glycine max) and sunflower (Helianthus annus) as protein sources in poultry and pigs diets

Two trials were carried out to compare the nutritional values of two Zambian indigenous plant protein sources--soy bean cake (SBC) and sunflower meal (SFM) in the diets of broilers and growing pigs. In trial 1, 120 one week old chickens (Abbor acre strain) were used. There were no differences (P > 0.05) between chickens on SBC and SFM in voluntary feed intake. Average daily gain of SBC chickens differed (P < 0.05) from those of SFM. The protein source had an effect (P < 0.05) on N retained [g/day]. Carcasses dry matter and crude protein were higher (P < 0.05) in SBC chickens, but ash, ether extract, Ca and P were the same as SFM. In trial 2, 12 Large white x Landrace growing barrows 1-2 months old were used. In this trial, SBC diet was consumed more than SFM. Pigs on SBC and SFM gained 0.526 and 0.284 g/head/day, respectively (P < 0.05). Nutrient digestibility was higher (P < 0.05) in SBC diet. Trial 1, demonstrated that SBC and SFM could be used for broilers without adverse effect on growth rate and body conformation. However, for growing pigs SBC is a better protein source than SFM in the tropical environment of Zambia. Finally, results obtained seem to suggest that SBC and SFM can be used as plant protein sources, but SFM is not an ideal plant protein source for growing pigs.
STATISTICAL CROSS-LINKING AT THE SI(111)/SIO2 INTERFACE

Angle-resolved photoemission measurements of the Si 2p core level as a function of polar emission angle were carried out to investigate the atomic populations and depth distributions of Si in various oxidation states for a SiO{sub 2} film thermally grown on Si(111). The suboxide states including Si{sup 1+} , Si{sup 2+} , and Si{sup 3+} exhibit different depth distributions. Despite these differences, the results are consistent with a chemically abrupt interface. A simple model based on the statistical cross-linking of dangling bonds between a bulk-truncated Si and an amorphous SiO{sub 2} layer explains our observations. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}
Obama administration outlines new strategy for wildfire season

As the wildfire season approaches, the Obama administration has released its new National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy, developed by federal, state, tribal, and community partners. The strategy outlines new approaches to maintain healthy ‘landscapes, prepare communities for the fire season, and better address the nation's fire threats. “Through more strategic coordination with local communities the National Cohesive Strategy will help us better protect 46 million homes in 70,000 communities from catastrophic wildfires,” U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said.
Computer-augmented learning programs for college instructors

A regional network of five small colleges supported by a university timesharing computer system provided the experimental setting for a teacher education program in educational applications of computers. The conclusions resulted from a three-year project to develop, implement, and evaluate a prototype program to educate college professors in techniques for using computers in their classrooms. The findings indicate that system reliability (as defined by the user) and significant professional assistance in computer-related curriculum development are key factors for the success of a regional program.
Benjamin F. Mudge, the State Geological Surveys, and Fossil Collecting in Kansas, 1864-1870

B. F. Mudge (1817-79), appointed the first Kansas State Geologist in 1864, served for only one year. Inexperienced, and with no chance of fulfilling the requirements of an expansive law, he was succeeded in 1865 by G. C. Swallow (1817-99). Aided by F. Hawn and the other former members of Mudge's survey, Swallow, who received a larger budget and an open-ended appointment with no specified duties, produced a more impressive report, although he was not funded in 1866. Mudge went to Kansas State Agricultural College, Manhattan, where he became the preeminent Kansas geologist during the years 1866-70. Although better known for his fossil vertebrate collections in the Cretaceous of Western Kansas in the 1870's, Mudge made significant invertebrate collections from the Cretaceous. Building on the foundation laid by F. V. Hayden and F. B. Meek, he was able, with considerable input from Meek, to make a major contribution toward elucidating the stratigraphy of the Kansas Cretaceous.
Impact of Study Design on the Evaluation of Inhaled and Intranasal Corticosteroids’ Effect on Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis Function, Part I: General Overview of HPA Axis Study Design

Inhaled and intranasal corticosteroids (ICS and INS) are among the mainstays of the treatment for asthma and allergic rhinitis, respectively, and also carry the potential to suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Several important factors affect the interpretability of trials investigating the impact of ICS and INS on the HPA axis. This paper reviews 106 published clinical trials, peer-reviewed articles, and New Drug Application reviews of approved ICS and INS, using MEDLINE and Drugs@FDA database. The trials included in this review evaluated the potential impact on HPA axis function of eight approved single-ingredient ICS and INS (beclomethasone dipropionate, budesonide, ciclesonide, flunisolide, fluticasone furoate, flucticasone propionate, mometasone furoate, and triamcinolone acetonide) and combination products containing these ingredients. The most commonly utilized design was blinded, placebo controlled, and short term (<6 weeks) for adult trials and blinded, placebo controlled, and long term (≥6 weeks) for pediatric trials. Factors potentially affecting trial results include the choice of dose, dosing duration, assay sensitivity, statistical methodology, and the study population evaluated (patients or healthy volunteers). All of these factors have the potential to affect the level of adrenal suppression detected. In conclusion, to be informative, a HPA axis study should be well designed and carefully implemented to minimize variability in results and improve the overall interpretability of data obtained.
The Spillover of Community Racial Diversity and Diversity Climate to the Workplace

We examined the spillover of community diversity to the workplace using a sample of 2,045 professionals living in communities across the U.S. Spillover effects were examined using two measures of c...
Environmental Aspects of Economic Relations between Nations

The last 30 years have seen growing concern about environmental issues and a continuous introduction of new environmental regulations. At present, global environmental issues, such as global warning, acid rain, and the disappearance of tropical rain forests, have become paramount. Furthermore, the impact of environmental regulations on international trade patterns is a related area of concern, with many analysts believing that countries may try to use environmental and safety regulations as barriers to free trade. Indeed, development of criteria for assessment of domestic environmental regulations is now part of the GATT negotiations. The paper assesses how environmental considerations affect economic relations between nations and the basic principals of international trade. 6 refs., 1 fig.
PROCRASTINATION, CONSCIENTIOUSNESS, ANXIETY, AND GOALS: EXPLORING THE MEASUREMENT AND CORRELATES OF PROCRASTINATION AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN

We explore the reliability and validity of a self-report measure of procrastination and conscientiousness designed for use with third- to fifth-grade students. The responses of 120 students are compared with teacher and parent ratings of the student. Confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses were also used to examine the structure of the scale. Procrastination and conscientiousness are highly correlated (inversely); evidence suggests that procrastination and conscientiousness are aspects of the same construct. Procrastination and conscientiousness are correlated with the Physiological Anxiety subscale of the Revised Children’s Manifest Anxiety Scale, and with the Task (Mastery) and Avoidance (Task Aversiveness) subscales of Skaalvik’s (1997) Goal Orientation Scales. Both theoretical implications and implications for interventions are discussed. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A developmental approach to understanding Fragile X syndrome in females.

The psychological phenotype of females with fragile X syndrome (FraX) is discussed, focusing primarily on empirical findings over the past decade and on studies of probands with the full mutation (FM). A developmental approach is used to help characterize specific patterns of cognitive, neuropsychological, social, emotional, and behavioral functioning across the lifespan of females with FraX. Approximately half of females with the syndrome present with cognitive abilities that fall in the borderline to mentally retarded range, and the remaining females with average intellectual functioning may experience relative deficits in math achievement and problems with attention and executive functioning. Reports of socio-emotional functioning are somewhat inconsistent, due in part, perhaps, to methodological differences in study design. To date, much of what we understand about the psychological phenotype of FraX is based on cross-sectional studies of girls and women with the disorder. Symptoms associated with shyness, and social anxiety and avoidance have been reported in some school-age, adolescent, and adult females with FraX. Only recently have efforts begun to identify the developmental trajectory of FraX in infants and toddlers. There is a void of information specific to these developmental periods. Identifying key deficits in cognitive and socio-emotional functioning has important implications for early detection and intervention for girls with FraX. Directions for future research are discussed.
Turbidity, velocity and interspecific interactions affect foraging behaviour of rosyside dace (Clinostomus funduloides) and yellowfin shiners (Notropis lutippinis)

Fish diversity is strongly affected by habitat degradation (e.g., increased turbidity) and invasive species. We examined the effects of turbidity, velocity, length, dominance and intra- and interspecific competition on focal point depth, movement rate, dominance and aggression rate in native rosyside dace (Clinostomus funduloides) and invasive yellowfin shiners (Notropis lutipinnis) in a southern Appalachian stream (NC, USA). We compared results for intra- and interspecific groups of fishes at two densities (two and four fishes), three turbidity levels (10, 20 and 30 nephelometric turbidity units), and two velocities (12, 18 cmAEs )1 ). Dominance was significantly correlated with length in intraspecific groups of both species, and dominant fish held more profitable foraging positions about 75% of the time. Yellowfin shiners were dominant more often than rosyside dace in interspecific trials. Akaike's Information Criterion indicated that models containing turbidity, velocity, species and intraspecific competition, explained the greatest amount of information in focal point depth data. By contrast, movement and aggression rates were best explained by models based on dominance and velocity. Finally, aggression rate was best explained by models containing fish length and turbidity. These results indicate that habitat degradation, intra- and interspecific interactions influence the foraging behaviour and future success of these species in the Little Tennessee River drainage.
Metabolism of nicotine to cotinine studied by a dual stable isotope method

Objectives (1) To determine the disposition kinetics of nicotine and cotinine, including the fractional conversion of nicotine to cotinine, (2) to compare the disposition kinetics of deuterium-labeled and unlabeled cotinine, and (3) to develop a pharmacokinetically based method for estimating daily intake of nicotine from cigarette smoking. Study design Twenty cigarette smokers received a combined infusion of deuterium-labeled nicotine (d2) and cotinine (d4). Six nonsmokers received a combined infusion of unlabeled cotinine, cotinine-d2 and cotinine-d4. Daily intake of nicotine was estimated with use of the plasma cotinine concentration during ad libitum smoking, clearance of labeled cotinine, and fractional conversion of nicotine to cotinine. Results The kinetics of labeled versus unlabeled cotinine and of cotinine in smokers versus nonsmokers were similar. On average, 72% of nicotine was converted to cotinine, with a range from 55% to 92%. Subjects with lower clearances of nicotine had lower fractional conversion of nicotine to cotinine, indicating that this is the most rapid of the proximate metabolic pathways for nicotine. The equation for estimating daily intake of nicotine from smoking was: Dnic (mg/24 hr) = K × (Plasma Cot) (ng/ml), where K averaged 0.08, with a range from 0.047 to 0.102. Individual variability in the clearance of cotinine (coefficient of variation, 27.5%) accounts for more of the variability in K than does variability in the fractional conversion of nicotine to cotinine (coefficient of variation, 12.3%). Conclusions Our study provides quantitative data on individual variabifity in the extent of C-oxidation of nicotine to cotinine and a quantitative perspective on the use of plasma cotinine as an indicator of daily intake of nicotine from tobacco. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1994) 56, 483–493; doi:10.1038/clpt.1994.169
Anodic asymmetry of leaves and flowers and its relationship to phyllotaxis.

Background and Aims New approaches are needed to evaluate the various hypotheses of phyllotaxis, and an examination of anodic leaf asymmetry may be one such approach. Methods Data were collected on the direction of midrib curvature and leaf coil in Syngonium podophyllum, the location of floral buds in Acalypha virginica, the position of secondary leaves of Croton variegatus ‘Banana’ and the relative size of half-lamina in Aglaonema crispum and Calathea ornata. Key ResultsAllfive features were exclusively anodic with respect to the direction of the genetic spiral regardless of whether the spiral was clockwise or counterclockwise. Conclusions Any phyllotactic mechanism must include some asymmetric component which cannot be explained by the prevalent hypotheses of contact parastichies, inhibitory fields, available space, pressure waves and auxin transport. The most favourable hypothesis is the primary vasculature explanation as it includes an asymmetric feature.
Bonding mechanisms at the interface of ceramic prosthetic materials

The development of a bone-bonding calcia-phosposilicate glass-ceramic is discussed. A theoretical model to explain the interfacial bonding is based upon in-vitro studies of glass-ceramic solubility in interfacial hydroxyapatite crystallization mechanisms, compared with in-vivo rat femur implant histology and ultrastructure results.
Effect of Population Mobility on the Location of Communal Shelters

A method for estimating the size of an area served by a civil defense shelter as a function of building types is developed, walking speeds, warning and reaction times, and percentage of population to be protected are estimated, queuing at shelter entrances is evaluated. The results obtained are applied to the metropolitan area of Washington, D.C.
Binge eating disorder, weight control self-efficacy, and depression in overweight men and women.

OBJECTIVE: To examine binge eating, depression, weight self-efficacy, and weight control success among obese individuals seeking treatment in a managed care organization. DESIGN: Gender-stratified analyses of associations between binge eating, depression, weight self-efficacy, and weight change, using data from a randomized clinical trial that compared low-cost telephone-based, mail-based, and usual care interventions for weight loss. SUBJECTS: A total of 1632 overweight individuals (460 men, 1172 women; mean age: 50.7 y; mean body mass index: 34.2 kg/m2) were recruited from a large Midwestern US managed care organization. MEASUREMENTS: Height and weight were measured by study personnel at baseline, and self-reported weight was assessed at 6 and 12 months; self-reported depression status, binge eating, and self-efficacy for weight control were assessed at baseline. RESULTS: Lifetime prevalence rates for depression and probable binge eating disorder were high. Weight self-efficacy was inversely related to weight in both men and women. For women, depression was associated with lower weight self-efficacy and higher body weight. Women reporting depression or lower weight self-efficacy at baseline had less weight loss success at 6 and 12 months. Depression, binge eating disorder, and weight self-efficacy were not significantly associated with weight loss success in men. CONCLUSION: Negative emotional states are highly prevalent and predict poor treatment outcomes, particularly for obese women. As obese women with clinical depression typically are excluded from intervention studies, further research on how to address the intersection of obesity intervention and mood management may be warranted.
Guided neural network learning using a fuzzy controller, with applications to textile spinning

We apply neural networks to build a metamodel of the relation between key input parameters and output performance measures of a simulated textile spinning plant. We investigate two different neural network estimation algorithms, namely back-propagation and an algorithm incorporating a fuzzy controller for the learning rate. According to our experience, both algorithms are capable of providing high-quality predictions. In addition, results obtained using a fuzzy controller for the learning rate suggest a significant potential for speeding up the training process.
Chemotherapy-induced hemolytic uremic syndrome: description of a potential animal model

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is an uncommon complication of chemotherapy that contributes to the morbidity of oncology and bone marrow transplant patients. The pathogenesis is not well understood and no established clinical animal model exists. We studied four rhesus monkeys (RM) that developed fatal HUS following high-dose chemotherapy. Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (pre-Hct 40% and day 5-8 Hct 31% (P < .05), increased BUN (168 mg/dl), creatinine (8.2 mg/dl), and lactate dehydrogenase (1458 IU/L) (mean day 5-8 measurements) were observed. Platelets counts decreased to 39 +/- 15 x 10(9)/l from a mean of 397 +/- 31 x 10(9)/L (P < .0001). vWF, ATIII, thrombin:anti-thrombin complex (T:AT) and prothrombin fragment F1.2 levels were not different from a control group (N = 2). The data presented describe chemotherapy-induced HUS with typical clinical and laboratory features which may provide an animal model for the study of this important syndrome.
Controlling the visualization: evaluating spatial data mining patterns while exploring a familiar geographic environment

This paper presents results from an empirical research study designed to investigate the affect of data format on user exploration patterns of spatial data visualized through GIS tables and maps. An experiment was designed in which geographic data were organized into point, line, and area tables and maps. These data were explored through a customized GIS interface and user exploration patterns were recorded. The results provide support for the application of the dominant framework theories (that explain mental map formation from direct exposure to a real-world geographic environment) to learning spatial data visualized in GIS.
Preterm infant hippocampal volumes correlate with later working memory deficits

Children born preterm exhibit working memory deficits. These deficits may be associated with structural brain changes observed in the neonatal period. In this study, the relationship between neonatal regional brain volumes and working memory deficits at age 2 years were investigated, with a particular interest in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, parietal cortex and the hippocampus. While the eligible sample consisted of 227 very preterm children who were born at the Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne prior to 30 weeks gestation or weighing <1250 g, 156 children had complete data sets. Neonatal magnetic resonance images of the brain were obtained at term equivalent age and subsequently parcellated into eight sub-regions, while the hippocampus was manually segmented. The relationship between brain volumes for these regions and performance on a working memory task (delayed alternation) at 2 years of age was examined. Very preterm children who perseverated on the working memory task had significantly smaller hippocampal volumes than very preterm children who exhibited intact working memory, even after adjusting for relevant perinatal, sociodemographic and developmental factors. Preterm children appear to have altered hippocampal volumes by discharge from hospital which may have a lasting impact on working memory function.
Hiding relaxed memory consistency with a compiler

We present a compiler technique, which is based on Shasha and Snir's delay set analysis, to hide the underlying relaxed memory consistency model for an optimizing compiler for explicitly parallel programs. The compiler presents programmers with a sequentially consistent view of the underlying machine, irrespective of whether it follows a sequentially consistent model or a relaxed model. To hide the underlying relaxed memory consistency model and to guarantee sequential consistency, our algorithm inserts fence instructions by identifying memory-barrier nodes. We reduce the number of fence instructions by exploiting the ordering constraints of the underlying memory consistency model and the property of fence and synchronization operations. We introduce dominators with respect to a node in a control flow graph to identify memory-barrier nodes and show that minimizing the number of memory-barrier nodes is NP-hard.
Nucleotide Excision Repair Is a Predominant Mechanism for Processing Nitrofurazone-Induced DNA Damage in Escherichia coli

processed by the cell. In this study, we characterized the genetic repair pathways that contribute to survival and mutagenesis in Escherichia coli cultures grown in the presence of nitrofurazone. We find that nucleotide excision repair is a primary mechanism for processing damage induced by nitrofurazone. The contribution of translesion synthesis to survival was minor compared to that of nucleotide excision repair and depended upon Pol IV. In addition, survival also depended on both the RecF and RecBCD pathways. We also found that nitrofurazone acts as a direct inhibitor of DNA replication at higher concentrations. We show that the direct inhibition of replication by nitrofurazone occurs independently of DNA damage and is reversible once the nitrofurazone is removed. Previous studies that reported nucleotide excision repair mutants that were fully resistant to nitrofurazone used high concentrations of the drug (200 M) and short exposure times. We demonstrate here that these conditions inhibit replication but are insufficient in duration to induce significant levels of DNA damage.
Bumptrees for Efficient Function, Constraint and Classification Learning

A new class of data structures called "bumptrees" is described. These structures are useful for efficiently implementing a number of neural network related operations. An empirical comparison with radial basis functions is presented on a robot arm mapping learning task. Applications to density estimation, classification, and constraint representation and learning are also outlined.
Algorithms for splicing junction donor recognition in genomic DNA sequences

The consensus sequences at splicing junctions in genomic DNA are required for pre-mRNA breaking and rejoining which must be carried out precisely. Programs currently available for identification or prediction of transcribed sequences from within genomic DNA are far from being powerful enough to elucidate genomic structure completely. In this paper, we develop pattern matching algorithms for 5' splicing site (donor site) recognition. Using the Motif models we develop, we can extract the degenerate pattern information from the consensus splicing junction sequences. The experimental results show that, our algorithm could correctly recognize 93% of the total donor sites at the right positions in the test DNA group. Furthermore, more than 91% of the donor sites were correctly predicted by our algorithm. These precision rates are higher than the best existing donor classification algorithm.
Developing and analyzing high-level designs for safety-critical software systems

The author gives an introduction to software safety and a framework for developing and analyzing safety-critical high-level designs. The framework outlines important activities that should take place when developing critical designs, presents approaches for doing these activities, and suggests various methods and strategies that support designs for safety. The framework provides a design-independent approach and includes activities such as high-level-design hazard analysis, developing verificative information, and conducting a critical review. >
Immunological Consequences of Copper Deficiency in Mice

Dietary copper deficiency was produced in C58 mice by feeding dams a purified diet, low in copper (-Cu), from parturition. Some dams were given CuSO4 in their drinking water and served as controls (+Cu). Offspring from these dams were continued on their respective treatments until 6-9 weeks of age. Serum ceruloplasmin activity and blood hemoglobin levels indicated that copper deficiency was evident in the -Cu mice, but to varying degrees. Humoralmediated immunity was evaluated by the hemolytic plaqueforming cell assay of Jerne-Nordin. The number of cells from -Cu spleens producing antibodies against sheep erythrocytes was greatly reduced compared to the +Cu spleens. Furthermore, regression analysis demonstrated that the degree of reduction in antibody production in -Cu splenocytes was highly correlated with the degree of functional copper deficiency. Cell-mediated immunity was studied, in vivo, by investigating T-cell dependent immunity to lineb syngeneic malignant lymphocytes. Twenty of twenty-two -Cu male mice died of leukemia following an immunizing dose of cells, whereas no mortality was observed in ten +Cu mice. In vitro studies with isolated splenocytes also verified a T-cell impairment, as -Cu preparations were approximately one-tenth as active as +Cu preparations to blast transformation by concanavalin A. These studies indicate that copper deficiency in mice suppresses both humoral and cellular immunity. (Supported, in part, by American Cancer Society grant IN-13-T-23.)
Quantification Of Malondialdehyde Adducts In Platelet Activation As An Indicator Of Proinflammatory and Prothombotic State

Background The formation of malondialdehyde (MDA) has been previously described as a product of the thromboxane synthase. However, the reported approaches for its quantification have not been reliable, stymieing its use in research. As a reactive di-carbonyl, MDA reacts with primary amines, notably lysines on proteins, to form covalent adducts of several types. Three of the products of the reaction of MDA with lysine are an N-propenal adduct, a dihydropyridine ring adduct (N-lysyl-4-methyl-2, 6-dihydropyridine-3, 5-dicarbaldehyde), and a lysyl-MDA crosslink. Measurement of platelet protein modifications, such as MDA adducts, could provide a specific marker of in vivo activation of platelets, since these modifications accumulate over the lifespan of the platelet. Methods and Results To investigate thromboxane synthase-dependent formation of MDA adducts on platelet proteins, we developed an LC/MS/MS method for analysis of one of the MDA adducts, the lysyl-MDA crosslink, employing a [13C12] labeled internal standard. We demonstrated that levels of lysyl-MDA crosslink in human platelets are increased following its activation with arachidonic acid. This increase is inhibited by aspirin, the thromboxane synthase inhibitor, ozagrel and by γ-ketoaldehyde specific scavengers: 3-Methoxysalicylamine (3-MOSA) and Salicylamine (SA). To determine whether lysyl-MDA crosslinks reflect in vivo platelet activation, we analyzed samples from patients with medical conditions known to be associated with increased platelet activation. We employed traditional methods of measuring platelet activation: flow cytometry of p-selectin and reticulated platelets, and serum thromboxane, to measure platelet activation in patients with metabolic syndrome and sickle cell disease. These assays were compared with the levels of lysyl-MDA-crosslinks. In both populations, the levels of MDA-lysine-crosslink are increased by 2.5 fold compared to healthy volunteers and provide greater discrimination between groups than p-selectin expression and reticulated platelets. The inhibition of the lysyl-MDA crosslink adduct in patients taking NSAIDs further confirms the specificity for thromboxane synthase-dependent MDA modifications on platelet proteins. Discussion The results of this study provide compelling evidence that MDA-protein adducts in platelets may be a useful marker of in vivo platelet activation in humans and potentially helpful in predicting thrombotic risk and the benefit of antiplatelet therapy in patients with medical conditions associated with platelet hyperactivity. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Coastal Dynamics and Pre-Columbian Human Occupation in Horseshoe Cove on the Northern Gulf Coast of Florida, USA

Site-specific paleoenvironmental reconstructions are necessary to isolate environmental factors from social forces that influence shifting human practices in the coastal environment. This interdisciplinary study included the collection and analysis of marine and freshwater pond sediment cores and terrestrial sediment samples along with archaeological excavations at three directly associated pre-Columbian sites in Horseshoe Cove on the northern Gulf Coast of Florida. This research shows a strong correlation between environmental change, the timing of initial occupation, and the morphological characteristics chosen for settlement by the pre-Columbian residents of this area. Specific attributes sought for new settlements included elevated landforms in protected areas away from the immediate shoreline, access to fresh water from nearby spring-fed ponds or tidal creeks, and easy access to marine resources via tidal creeks. The result of this study can be useful as a model for locating and identifying archaeological sites in similar environmental settings.
Abundance of thymidine kinase 1 (TK1) message in breast cancer cell lines is better correlated with their doubling times than Ki67 or PCNA message levels

1425 Objectives Cancer cell-lines, established from either primary or metastatic sites of cancer patients, have contributed to understanding cancer biology and can help inform radiotracer development. Cell lines with shorter doubling time (DT) often have more aggressive behavior. In the current study, we assessed correlations between the DTs of breast cancer cell lines and the abundance of Ki67, PCNA, TK1, thymidylate synthase (TYMS), or transporters (SLC29A1-2) Methods A NCI 60 exon dataset (interrogating over 1 million exon clusters within the known and predicted transcribed regions of the entire genome) was selected from the NIH Gene Expression Omnibus which contains 178 chips including 5 breast cancer cell lines with triplicates for each: BT-549, HS578T, MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and T47D. Using Partek, commercial software, we obtained the average abundance of transcripts of interest above. Correlations between the abundance of genes and documented doubling times were plotted (α=0.05 for a one-tailed test) Results The correlation coefficient r of TK1 (phosphorylating FLT) vs. DTs was -0.85 (p = 0.03 Conclusions In this in vitro study, TK1 message abundance appears to have a better correlation to DTs of breast cancer cell lines than TYMS, or the conventional proliferation markers Ki67 and PCNA. This correlation is negative, indicating higher TK1 abundance and a shorter DT. These data provide biological support for the role of 18F- FLT as a proliferation marker in breast cancer Research Support NIH T32 training grant
Prevalence of Mastitis Pathogens Preceding and Following Parturition in Primiparous Beef Cows

Abstract Prevalence of intramammary infection was studied in primiparous beef cows preceding and following parturition. Aseptic mammary quarter samples were collected from Brahman-sired cows (Group 1; n = 19) on d −143, −30, and 110 ± 4 from parturition, and from Angus-sired cows (Group 2; n = 54) on d -36 and 37 ± 2 from parturition. In Group 1, 67.6, 55.6, and 9.3% of quarters sampled were infected with mastitis pathogens on d −143, −30, and 110 ± 4 from parturition, respectively. In Group 2, 35.3 and 10.4% of the quarters were infected on d −36 and 37 ± 2 from parturition, respectively. In Group 2, over 22% of the quarters that had previously been infected with Staphylococcus aureus, and over 26% of the quarters that had previously been infected with Staphylococcus species were still infected with the same organism on d 37 ± 2 postpartum. In Group 2, representative cows were selected for blood chemistry analyses (n = 30) and machine milking (n = 46). Serum potassium was higher (4.64 vs 4.36 ± 0.09 mmol/L; P
On the local solvability of vector fields with critical points

The article discusses the local solvability (or lack thereof) of various classes of smooth, complex vector fields that vanish on some non-empty subset of the base manifold.
Analysis of detection for influenza from 2009 to 2010 in Dalian city

Objective:To analyze the data from surveillance of influenza virus in Dalian from 2009 to 2010 and to explore the epidemic pattern and relationship between the novel influenza A(H1N1) and seasonal influenza.Methods: The swabs collected from influenza-like patients in 2 national surveillance hospitals were detected by Real-time RT-PCR.Results: A total of 1867 samples were detected,the positive rate of influenza virus was 19.82%.There was statistics diversity of the positive rate in different age group.From July 2009 to June 2010,there were two peaks of epidemic of influenza in Dalian.The first peak of epidemic of the novel influenza A(H1N1) virus appeared from October to November in 2009 while the second one of epidemic of B type of influenza virus occurred in February in 2010.Conclusion:The school students and youths were the prominent population stricken by influenza virus from 2009 to 2010 in Dalian.The epidemic strain of seasonal influenza virus was B type.The novel influenza A(H1N1) had not affected the epidemiologic characteristics of seasonal influenza in Dalian.
Neomycin spray in the treatment of nasal carriers of staphylococcus.

Twenty-eight nasal carriers of coagulase-producing Staphylococcus aureus were treated by spraying the nares and deeper nasal cavities once a day with a solution containing neomycin sulfate. The subjects received a total of forty-four courses of treatment; in 32 instances, the culture was negative the day after the first treatment, in 7 instances after the second, and in four instances after the third. One case remained positive after the fifth spray, the only failure in the study.
TOTAL AND NUTRITIONAL BLOOD FLOW IN THE FINGER

SUMMARY 1. Total and nutritional flow in the fingertip were investigated during reflex sympathetic nerve stimulation (total body cooling) or adrenergic nerve transmitter administration. Nutritional flow was measured by the disappearance rate of a local depot of Na13'I, and total fingertip flow by venous occlusion plethysmography. 2. With body cooling the decrease in nutritional flow was not significant, but total and therefore arteriovenous shunt flow decreased significantly. 3. Norepinephrine infused into the brachial artery decreased total and nutritional flow significantly although total flow decreased more than nutritional. 4. It is concluded that sympathetic nervous system activity exerts a greater effect on finger arteriovenous shunt flow than on nutritional flow. Therefore nutritional flow is not adversely affected.
Forty Years of Cost-Benefit Analysis

This year is a triple anniversary. With great fanfare the United States is celebrating the 200th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence. With considerable solemnity but less fanfare economists all over the world are celebratinglhe 200th anniversary of The Wealth of Nations. And with almost no fanfare whatsoever benefit-cost analysts are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their craft, which had its official inception in the Flood Control Act of 1936.1