cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Aminergic modulation of graded synaptic transmission in the lobster stomatogastric ganglion

Graded chemical synaptic transmission is important for establishing the motor patterns produced by the pyloric central pattern generator (CPG) circuit of the lobster stomatogastric ganglion (Raper, 1979; Anderson and Barker, 1981; Graubard et al., 1983). We examined the modulatory effects of the amines dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), and octopamine (Oct) on graded synaptic transmission at all the central chemical synapses made by the pyloric dilator (PD) neuron onto its follower cells, using synaptic input-output curves measured from cell somata. DA strongly reduced the graded synaptic strength at all the PD synapses. DA reduction of chemical synaptic strength from PD onto the inferior cardiac (IC) neuron could change the sign of synaptic interaction between these 2 cells from inhibitory to excitatory by uncovering a weak electrical connection. 5-HT had weaker and more variable effects, reducing graded synaptic strength from the PD onto the lateral pyloric and pyloric neurons and enhancing the weak synapse from the PD to the IC cell. Oct strongly enhanced the graded synaptic strength at all the PD central synapses. Oct enhancement of graded synaptic strength between the PD and IC cells could also change the sign of the interaction: weak, excitatory electrical coupling, which was sometimes dominant before Oct, was masked by the enhanced chemical inhibitory interaction during Oct application. Measurements of electrical coupling between 2 PD cells and between 2 postsynaptic cells suggest that Oct does not change the input resistance of these cells and may act directly at the PD synapses. The effects of DA and 5-HT are most easily explained by their general reductions in pre- and postsynaptic input resistance. DA, 5-HT, and Oct each produce a distinct pyloric motor pattern (Flamm and Harris-Warrick, 1986a). These amine-induced motor patterns may be explained by the unique actions of each amine on the intrinsic membrane properties of different pyloric CPG neurons (Flamm and Harris-Warrick, 1986b) and by modulation of graded synaptic transmission between the pyloric neurons.
Disjunctive Logic Programs and Constrain Processing

In this paper, we extend the semantics of extended Horn programs to disjunctive logic programs with classical negation. We call such programs as extended disjunctive logic programs. We show that the extension allows certain type of conclusions to be inferred which are not possible with disjunctive programs. We also develop declarative and procedural semantics for inferring from extended disjunctive logic programs. Next, we use extended disjunctive logic programs to deal with default reasoning, in the form of rules and integrity constraints. Disjunctive program clauses with negative conclusions are viewed as constraints which constrain the inference that can be made from the disjunctive program clauses with positive conclusions. Whenever a conclusion from the program violates an integrity constraint, then that conclusion is not allowed to be made. We develop a declarative semantics and define a proof procedure for constraint processing with disjunctive logic programs.
Accuracy and consistency in estimation and fusion over long-haul sensor networks

Long-haul sensor networks can be found in many real-world applications, such as tracking and/or monitoring of one or more dynamic targets in space. In such networks, sensors are remotely deployed over a large geographical area, whereas a remote fusion center fuses the information provided by these sensors in order to improve the accuracy of the final estimates of certain target characteristics. We consider the accuracy as well as consistency of information measures such as the error covariance matrices used to describe the theoretical error performance of sensor and fuser estimates. In particular, the impact of filtering and fusion, communication loss and delay, sensor bias, and information feedback on the accuracy and consistency of error measures is investigated by means of studying a maneuvering target tracking application.
Zoning, Transportation, and Climate Change

On February 2, 2006, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) expressed the consensus of the scientific community that global warming is unequivocal and that its main driver is human activity. On April 7, 2007, the IPCC issued a second report detailing the likely consequences of climate change: widening droughts, more severe storm events, increased inland flooding, sea level rise, and consequent inundation of low lying lands. The Center for Climate Systems Research at Columbia University estimates that sea levels around New York City's boroughs will increase by five inches by 2030, with some estimates predicting up to 12 inches more between 2030 and 2080. The biggest threat to the safety of millions of city dwellers and its trillions of dollars of real property is the prospect of increasingly vicious storms that may propel encroaching waters onto the shore and threaten the stability of vulnerable buildings.
Naked DNA in Gene Therapy

‘Naked DNA’ is DNA without an association with any synthetic or naturally occurring compounds. Significant progress has been made in the use of naked DNA for gene delivery. Keywords: electroporation; gene therapy; hydrodynamic DNA delivery; naked DNA; nonviral vector
Toward an Explanation of the UFO Abduction Phenomenon: Hypnotic Elaboration, Extraterrestrial Sadomasochism, and Spurious Memories

Autobiographical memories are often suspect. For example, a surprisingly large number of people report having been abducted by extraterrestrials. We offer a prototype of the abduction experience and an assessment of the frequency of such reports. These accounts are hard to dismiss on the basis of mendacity or insanity, but there are ample reasons to doubt their literal accuracy. We offer a cognitive-motivational explanation for how spurious memories of unidentified flying object (UFO) abductions can be created and maintained. The motivational roots lie in the desire to escape from ordinary self-awareness, and this explanation is supported by parallels between UFO abduction accounts and masochistic fantasies. The cognitive bases involve the integration and elaboration of hallucinations, general knowledge, and contextual cues into full-blown accounts, usually with the aid of hypnosis. Due to the pitfalls of hypnosis, people develop a high degree of confidence in the veridicality of spurious UFO abduction me...
COMPREHENSIVE LATENT TRAIT THEORY

Latent trait theory, or item response theory, started as a mental test theory, or as a social attitude measurement theory, dealing solely with the dichotomous response level. It has been developed tremendously in the past generation both in theory and in practice, however, to include the graded response level, the nominal response level and the continuous response level, both in the unidimensional and in the multidimensional latent spaces. The present paper attempts to give the reader some perspectives of this comprehensive theory, without intending to be a fair review of all the published papers in this area. Some promising applications, including the computerized adaptive testing and the Rorschach diagnosis, are also given.
Conformational Analysis and Dynamics of 9-Propylfluorene and 9-Ethylfluorene

The S1 excited state and cation ground state of jet-cooled 9-propylfluorene have been studied using resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization (REMPI) and zero electron kinetic energy (ZEKE) photoelectron spectroscopy. Three conformations of 9-propylfluorene have been experimentally identified. Quantum chemical calculations have been used to calculate the ground state and cation energies of each conformer as well as the barrier to conformer interconversion via a bond rotation. ZEKE spectroscopy has also been used to search for conformer interconversion upon vibronic excitation to S1, but no evidence for a dynamic barrier crossing has been found, even at the highest energy probed (3210 cm-1). Similar studies previously carried out on 9-ethylfluorene were also extended to higher energy, and no evidence of dynamic barrier crossing was found at energies as high as 3525 cm-1. Statistical density of state calculations have been carried out to predict the relative populations of each conformer as a function of ex...
Kinetics of bidirectional active sodium fluxes in the toad bladder.

Abstract The kinetics of isotopic Na+ flows was studied in urinary bladders of toads from the Dominican Republic. Initial studies of the potential dependence of passive serosal to mucosal 22Na+ efflux demonstrated the absence of isotope interaction and/or other coupling with passive Na+ flow. The electrical current I and mucosal to serosal 22Na+ influx were then measured with transmembrane potential clamped at Δψ = 0, 25, 50, 75 or 100 mV . Subsequent elimination of active Na+ transport mucosal amiloride permitted calculation of the rates of active Na+ transport J Na a and active and passive influx J Na Na and J Na a and J Na p . The results indicate that for Dominican toad bladders mounted in chambers only Na+ contributes significantly to transepithelial active ion transport; hence J Na a = J a . J a was abolished at Δψ = E = 96.3 ± 1.9 (S.E.) mV . As Δψ approached E , active efflux J a became demonstrable. At Δ = 100 mV , J a exceeded J a , so that J a was negative. Experimental values of J a agreed well with theoretical values predicted by a thermodynamic formulation: J exp a = 0.985 J theor a (r = 0.993) . The dependence of J a on Δψ is curvilinear.
Thermostable β-xylosidase from Thermomonospora curvata

produced a thermostable β-xylosidase during growth on birch xylan. The enzyme, extracted by sonication of early stationary phase mycelia, was purified by isoelectric focusing and size exclusion HPLC. The isoelectric point was pH 4.8. The molecular weight was estimated to be 102 000 by size exclusion HPLC and 112 000 by SDS-PAGE. Maximal activity occurred at pH 6–7 and 60–68°C. Km values for xylobiose and p-nitrophenyl-β -D-xylopyranoside were 4.0 M and 0.6 M respectively. The enzyme was sensitive to low levels of Hg2+ (50% inhibition at 0.2 μM), but was stimulated by Co2+ and Pb2+. Addition of the xylosidase to a xylanase reaction mixture increased the liberation of xylose equivalents from xylan and decreased the proportion of xylobiose in the hydrolysate.
Interfacing aspects between the picture archiving communications systems, radiology information systems, and hospital information systems

Information relevant to radiological applications is commonly managed by several autonomous medical information systems including hospital information systems (HIS), radiological information systems (RIS), and picture archiving and communications systems (PACS). In this report, we explain the need to coordinate these systems and to provide some framework in which they can exchange information. In the first half of this report, we describe the integration of a PACS system into a hospital operation. Next, we present the interfacing methods between the HIS and the RIS, and between the RIS and the PACS. Two methods are further detailed for the communication between the RIS and the PACS (1) the triggered database to database transfer, and (2) the query protocol. The implementation of the first method successfully allows RIS reports, procedure and patient demographic information to be displayed at the request of the user along with the associated images at a PACS workstation. The query protocol allows a PACS to dynamically query RIS information. It will be eventually integrated into the design of a scientific multimedia distributed medical database system built on top of the HIS, the RIS, and the PACS.
Near-field scattering optical microscopy probes for high-resolution beam scans of near-infrared lasers and waveguides

Near-field probe apertures are created for bent and chemically etched fibers using a technique based upon controlled compression of a malleable Au coating. Reproducible, near-circular apertures free of protrusions are obtained. The probes are first characterized using scanning electron microscopy and a near-field test pattern, then are used to perform high-resolution beam scans of near- infrared diode lasers and optical waveguides.
Soluble salivary proteins secreted by Schizaphis graminum

Schizaphis graminum (Rondani) (Homoptera: Aphididae), when feeding on a sucrose solution, secreted primarily three proteins of 154, 69, and 66 kilodaltons (kDa). The sequence of the first nine amino acids at the N-terminus of the 66 and 69 kDa proteins was identical suggesting that they differ only in processing at the C-terminus. The N-terminus of the 154 kDa protein was different, yet had some similarity to the N-terminus of the 66 and 69 kDa proteins. There was an immunological cross-reaction between the 154 kDa and the 66 and 69 kDa proteins indicating some amino acid sequence similarity. The probable relationships of these proteins are discussed.
Dynamic traditions: why globalization does not mean homogenization

In light of the relation between culture and markets, an analysis of cultural evolution reveals that globalization will not lead to the homogenization of world cultures.
PTSD Symptoms Among Men and Women Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence: The Role of Risk and Protective Factors

The purpose of this cross-sectional analysis of the National Violence Against Women Survey was to characterize current symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among 185 men and 369 women survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). In this subsample, 24% of women and 20% of men had current moderate-to-severe PTSD symptoms. PTSD scores were higher for women than men. Protective factors that appear to increase resiliency of survivors were higher education and income, being currently married, and reporting that IPV had stopped. Higher physical or psychological IPV scores, current depressive symptoms, and the survivor having left the relationship at least once were associated with risk of moderate-to-severe symptoms of PTSD. Protective factors may be used to boost resiliency of IPV survivors and reduce PTSD symptoms.
Global Solution of Optimization Problems with Parameter-Embedded Linear Dynamic Systems

This paper develops a theory for the global solution of nonconvex optimization problems with parameter-embedded linear dynamic systems. A quite general problem formulation is introduced and a solution is shown to exists. A convexity theory for integrals is then developed to construct convex relaxations for utilization in a branch-and-bound framework to calculate a global minimum. Interval analysis is employed to generate bounds on the state variables implied by the bounds on the embedded parameters. These bounds, along with basic integration theory, are used to prove convergence of the branch-and-bound algorithm to the global minimum of the optimization problem. The implementation of the algorithm is then considered and several numerical case studies are examined thoroughly
Field trials with the herpes virus of turkeys (HVT) strain FC126 as a vaccine against Marek's disease.

Abstract INTRODUCTION MAREK’S disease (MD) is a common lymphoproliferative disease of domestic chickens affecting the peripheral nerves and visceral organs. It is world-wide in distribution and is responsible for considerable economic loss, particularly in areas of high density poultry production. This highly contagious disease has recently been shown to be caused by a herpesvirus (Biggs et al., 1968; Witter et al., 1969). When a strain of “acute” MD virus (MDV) was passed continuously in cell culture it produced plaques which were larger (macroplaques) than those produced by the strain from which it originated and it also was non-pathogenic for chickens (Churchill et al., 1969). Chicks inoculated with this strain were protected from disease when subsequently challenged with a virulent strain of virus (Churchill et al., 1969) and the attenuated virus was effective against MD in field trials (Biggs et al., 1970). Witter et al. (1970a) isolated a herpesvirus from turkeys which…
Integrating evolutionary computation and sociotechnical simulation for flushing contaminated water distribution systems

A water distribution contamination event occurs when a chemical or pathogen is introduced to a pipe network dedicated to the delivery of potable water. During an event, complex interactions among consumers, utility operators, decision makers, and the pipe network can influence the number of exposed consumers, as human actors adapt their water use activities in response to warnings or exposure. An agent-based model is developed to model the water contamination event and provides insight and understanding about the effect of interactions on public health, such as the number of exposed consumers. Utility operators can protect consumers using a wide range of mitigation responses, and opening a set of hydrants is typically an effective strategy for flushing contaminated water before it reaches consumers. The ABM framework is coupled with an Evolutionary Strategy (ES)-based search to identify an optimal strategy for manipulating hydrants to minimize the number of exposed consumers. The application of the simulation-optimization framework is demonstrated for a virtual mid-sized municipality, Mesopolis.
Ouabain-stimulated trafficking regulation of the Na/K-ATPase and NHE3 in renal proximal tubule cells

We have demonstrated that ouabain regulates protein trafficking of the Na/K-ATPase a1 subunit and NHE3 (Na/H exchanger, isoform 3) via ouabain-activated Na/K-ATPase signaling in porcine LLC-PK1 cells. To investigate whether this mechanism is species-specific, ouabain-induced regulation of the a1 subunit and NHE3 as well as transcellular 22 Na ? transport were compared in three renal proximal tubular cell lines (human HK-2, por- cine LLC-PK1, and AAC-19 originated from LLC-PK1 in which the pig a1 was replaced by ouabain-resistant rat a1). Ouabain-induced inhibition of transcellular 22 Na ? transport is due to an ouabain-induced redistribution of the a1 sub- unit and NHE3. In LLC-PK1 cells, ouabain also inhibited the endocytic recycling of internalized NHE3, but has no significant effect on recycling of endocytosed a1 subunit. These data indicated that the ouabain-induced redistribu- tion of the a1 subunit and NHE3 is not a species-specific phenomenon, and ouabain-activated Na/K-ATPase signal- ing influences NHE3 regulation.
Evidence for the biochemical role of an internal sequence in yeast nuclear mRNA introns: Implications for U1 RNA and metazoan mRNA splicing

Sequence comparison of the introns of two yeast genes (rp51A and rp51B) coding for the same ribosomal protein shows homology only in the last 50 bases of the intron. This region of the intron contains an internal conserved sequence (ICS) present near the 3' end of all sequenced yeast nuclear mRNA introns. Removal of a 29 bp sequence containing the ICS prevents splicing of an intron-containing hybrid gene. In cells containing the wild-type gene, we have detected RNA molecules that we suggest are normal splicing intermediates, generated by an endonucleolytic cut in the primary transcript at the ICS. The homology of the ICS with a sequence near the 5' end of U1 snRNA suggests a model in which an interaction in cis between the ICS and the 5' splice junction in yeast is the counterpart of the interaction in trans between U1 and 5' splice junctions in higher eucaryotes.
Experimental Culture of Young Rainbow Smelt Osmerus mordax

Abstract There is a large demand for rainbow smelt as a bait and food fish, and culture of the species has economic potential. In 1979, we began experiments to define optimum conditions for incubation of eggs and growth of larvae and juveniles. Hatching success was 40–80% in fresh and brackish water, but zero in full-strength seawater. The timing of hatching was determined for incubation temperatures of 6 to 20°C. Larvae fed most successfully in full-strength seawater on the cultured marine rotifer Brachionus plicatilis. Eyed eggs were also stocked in two ponds, one newly constructed and one with a well-established food base. Larval fish raised exclusively with natural foods (primarily cyclopoid copepods, chironomids, and Chaoborus sp.) reached 44 mm total length within 6 months in the newly constructed freshwater pond, and 83 mm in the established pond; rates of 0.22 and 0.41 mm/day, respectively. Rainbow smelt in the latter pond reached commercial baitfish size before the first winter of life. Fish in t...
TU-E-304A-01: Hybrid Patient-Dependent Phantoms Covering Statistical Distributions of Body Morphometry in the U.S. Adult Population: Development and Validation

Purpose: To investigate the usefulness of patient‐dependent phantoms for medical patient dosimetry.Method and Materials: In order to create patient‐dependent phantoms built around the anthropometric distributions of a US adult population, a methodology was developed for modifying hybrid reference phantoms based on target anthropometric parameters as determined from the NHANES III database. This database compiled by the U.S. Center for Health Statistics includes roughly 15,000 adult patients and a variety of primary and secondary anthropometric measurements. Primary parameters including standing height and total body mass were parameterized according to 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 90th percentile values. The database was then culled according to these targets, and secondary parameters including waist, arm, thigh, and buttock circumference were selected based upon the average value within each sub‐grouping. The UF hybrid adult male (UFHADM) and adult female (UFHADF) were used as anchor phantoms for this study and remodeled non‐uniformly according to the target parameters. Fifty patient‐dependent phantoms were created and evaluated based on appearance and internal organ mass. Results: Aesthetically, the phantoms appeared correct and displayed characteristics of a diverse population including variability in shape and size. Organ masses displayed several general trends including a gradual increase with both standing height and weight. Organ mass was also validated by comparing with a series of segmented CAP scans and with a French‐based autopsy study. Conclusions: This work highlights the unique advantages of hybrid phantoms for the construction of diverse anthropomorphic models. These phantoms are of particular importance for medical patient dosimetry where there is a need for computational models that balance the practicality of reference models with the specificity and anatomical accuracy of patient‐specific models. As such, the UFHADM and UFHADF patient‐dependent series may be used for a wide variety of medical applications where body size may have a large influence on dose.
Forms of Male Domination and Female Subordination: Homeworkers versus Maquiladora Workers in Mexico:

Much of what is labeled "patriarchy" in the literature on women's subordination is more accurately described as "neopatriarchy" and "phallocentrism." Neopatriarchy arises when the nuclear family replaces the extended family as the norm and the male head of household is designated as breadwinner. Phallocentrism appears when women challenge male economic domination by entering the labor force and become subordinated due primarily to their sexuality rather than due to their reproductive functions. It is argued that home-based women workers in Mexico are enmeshed in sometimes contested neopatriarchal relations, whereas maquiladora workers are in many cases "kept in place" through machismo phallocentrism on the part of managers, foremen, and male coworkers. In either case, capitalist enterprise gains a docile labor force.
Physical conditions in the corona for a bipolar magnetic region

We have used the S-056 X-ray data from Skylab to determine quantitative values for the coronal conditions characterizing a new bipolar magnetic region (BMR). In particular, we include: (a) the time variation of the total soft X-ray flux from the BMR as a function of time; (b) the temporal and spatial variation of the temperature and emission measure; (c) the variation with time of thermal energy density; (d) the (calculated) magnetic field configuration and magnetic flux density in the corona; and (e) the temporal variation of the magnetic field energy in the corona. Detailed comparisons are made between the configuration of X-ray features and the magnetic field topology.
GINI: From ISH Images to Gene Interaction Networks

Accurate inference of molecular and functional interactions among genes, especially in multicellular organisms such as Drosophila, often requires statistical analysis of correlations not only between the magnitudes of gene expressions, but also between their temporal-spatial patterns. The ISH (in-situ-hybridization)-based gene expression micro-imaging technology offers an effective approach to perform large-scale spatial-temporal profiling of whole-body mRNA abundance. However, analytical tools for discovering gene interactions from such data remain an open challenge due to various reasons, including difficulties in extracting canonical representations of gene activities from images, and in inference of statistically meaningful networks from such representations. In this paper, we present GINI, a machine learning system for inferring gene interaction networks from Drosophila embryonic ISH images. GINI builds on a computer-vision-inspired vector-space representation of the spatial pattern of gene expression in ISH images, enabled by our recently developed system; and a new multi-instance-kernel algorithm that learns a sparse Markov network model, in which, every gene (i.e., node) in the network is represented by a vector-valued spatial pattern rather than a scalar-valued gene intensity as in conventional approaches such as a Gaussian graphical model. By capturing the notion of spatial similarity of gene expression, and at the same time properly taking into account the presence of multiple images per gene via multi-instance kernels, GINI is well-positioned to infer statistically sound, and biologically meaningful gene interaction networks from image data. Using both synthetic data and a small manually curated data set, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in network building. Furthermore, we report results on a large publicly available collection of Drosophila embryonic ISH images from the Berkeley Drosophila Genome Project, where GINI makes novel and interesting predictions of gene interactions. Software for GINI is available at http://sailing.cs.cmu.edu/Drosophila_ISH_images/
Quasi‐One‐Dimensional Riemann Problems and Their Role in Self‐Similar Two‐Dimensional Problems

We study two‐dimensional Riemann problems with piecewise constant data. We identify a class of two‐dimensional systems, including many standard equations of compressible flow, which are simplified by a transformation to similarity variables. For equations in this class, a two‐dimensional Riemann problem with sectorially constant data becomes a boundary‐value problem in the finite plane. For data leading to shock interactions, this problem separates into two parts: a quasi‐one‐dimensional problem in supersonic regions, and an equation of mixed type in subsonic regions. We prove a theorem on local existence of solutions of quasi‐one‐dimensional Riemann problems. For 2 × 2 systems, we generalize a theorem of Courant & Friedrichs, that any hyperbolic state adjacent to a constant state must be a simple wave. In the subsonic regions, where the governing equation is of mixed hyperbolic‐elliptic type, we show that the elliptic part is degenerate at the boundary, with a nonlinear variant of a degeneracy first described by Keldysh.
Drainage Size, Stream Intermittency, and Ecosystem Function in a Sonoran Desert Landscape

Understanding the interactions between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems remains an important research focus in ecology. In arid landscapes, catchments are drained by a channel continuum that represents a potentially important driver of ecological pattern and process in the surrounding terrestrial environment. To better understand the role of drainage networks in arid landscapes, we determined how stream size influences the structure and productivity of riparian vegetation, and the accumulation of organic matter (OM) in soils beneath plants in an upper Sonoran Desert basin. Canopy volume of velvet mesquite (Prosopis velutina), as well as overall plant cover, increased along lateral upland–riparian gradients, and among riparian zones adjacent to increasingly larger streams. Foliar δ13C signatures for P. velutina suggested that landscape patterns in vegetation structure reflect increases in water availability along this arid stream continuum. Leaf litter and annual grass biomass production both increased with canopy volume, and total aboveground litter production ranged from 137 g m−2 y−1 in upland habitat to 446 g m−2 y−1 in the riparian zone of the perennial stream. OM accumulation in soils beneath P. velutina increased with canopy volume across a broad range of drainage sizes; however, in the riparian zone of larger streams, flooding further modified patterns of OM storage. Drainage networks represent important determinants of vegetation structure and function in upper Sonoran Desert basins, and the extent to which streams act as sources of plant-available water and/or agents of fluvial disturbance has implications for material storage in arid soils.
A Great Novel in a "Small" Language: Representations of the African Intellectual in the Eritrean Novel Tebereh's Shop

Tebereh's Shop (2003) is a remarkable novel written in Tigrinya, an important Horn of Africa literary language spoken in Eritrea and Ethiopia. It was written by Beyene Haile, an Eritrean novelist-cum-painter-cum-sculptor, who, though less known outside Africa, is regarded by his critics as one of the continent's major writers, contemporarily publishing in indigenous languages. The novel deals with the role of African intellectuals in the trajectory of nation-building and is framed within the context of political and economic adversity created by war and domestic repression. Published after three years of the end of the 1998–2000 border conflict between the neighboring countries of Eritrea and Ethiopia, and the Eritrean government's subsequent deferral of the constitution, closure of the free press, and detention of its political opponents, the novel paints a highly controversial image of intellectuals while at the same time charting a newly fangled and brilliant, even where it is romantic, task for them.
Small ice crystals and the climatology of lightning

[1] Vigorous debate still surrounds the cloud electrification process and unexplained regional variations in lightning activity. Here, we show that climatological maxima in lightning activity are associated with small effective diameter D-e of ice crystals near cumulonimbus cloud tops. This relationship, unlike lightning's more well-known relationship with cloud top height, is consistent over land and ocean. Since multiple studies indicate that D-e is reduced by atmospheric aerosol, this relationship strengthens previous suggestions of a role for aerosols as well as dynamics in electrification. Moreover, the angular distribution of backscattered radiance shows that modest (similar to 10%) D-e decreases reflect large (similar to 2x) increases in the number of small (< similar to 30 mu m) particles N, a finding supported by cloud model simulations. Both relationships provide an important new test of cloud microphysics and/or electrification models. (Less)
Cholecystectomy using a novel Single-Site(®) robotic platform: early experience from 45 consecutive cases.

The aim of this work was to study the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of single-incision robotic cholecystectomy using a novel platform from Intuitive Surgical. All operations were performed by the same surgeon. Parameters assessed included patient history, indication for surgery, operation time, complication rate, conversion rate, robot-related issues, length of hospital stay, postoperative pain, and time to return to work. All patients were followed for a 2-month period postoperatively. Forty-five patients (22 women, 23 men) underwent single-incision robotic cholecystectomy from March 1 to July 15, 2011. There were no conversions to either conventional laparoscopy or laparotomy, although in three cases a second trocar was used. There were no major complications apart from a single case of postoperative hemorrhage. Average patient age was 47 ± 12 years (range = 27–80 years) and average BMI was 30 kg/m2 (mean = 28.8 ± 4 kg/m2, range = 18.4–46.7 kg/m2). The primary indication for surgery was gallstones. The mean operation time (skin-to-skin) was 84.5 ± 25.5 min (range = 51–175 min), docking time was 5.8 ± 1.5 min (range = 4–11 min), and console time (net surgical time) was 43 ± 21.9 min (range = 21–121 min). Intraoperative blood loss was negligible. There were no collisions between the robotic arms and no other robot-related problems. Average postoperative length of stay was less than 24 h. The mean Visual Analog Pain Scale Score 6 h after the operation was 2.2 ± 1.51 (range = 0–6) and patients returned to normal activities in 4.48 ± 2.3 days (range = 1–9 days). Single-Site® is a new platform offering a potentially more stable and reliable environment to perform single-port cholecystectomy. Both simple and complicated cholecystectomies can be performed with safety. The technique is possible in patients with a high BMI. The induction of pneumoperitoneum using the new port and the docking process require additional training.
The Generalized Action Potential of Protest Movements: The New Class, Social Trends, and Political Exclusion Explanations

Three explanations have been advanced to account for the generalized action potential of contemporary protest movements: the rise of the new class, a set of general social trends that cumulatively lead to liberalized social values and loosened social restraints against protest, and the mobilization of excluded groups. Analyzing three dimensions of generalized action potential—protest potential, political action repertoires, and protest movement support—we find support for all three explanations. Educated salaried professionals, especially sociocultural and public sector professionals, display greater protest potential, especially for civil disobedience, and are supportive of emerging “middle class” movements. A set of general social trends centering on increased education, life-cycle and generational change, secularism, and increased women's autonomy also create greater action potential. Reflecting mobilization against political exclusion, African Americans display a consistently strong generalized action potential. These protests reflect the rise of new political repertoires, particularly “protest activism,” which combines protest with high levels of conventional participation and is centered among the more educated.
Evidence for a serum inhibitor of Clq.

Abstract Clq was isolated from fresh serum and chromatographed on a column of insolubilized Concanavalin A. Two fractions were obtained; one before (fraction A) and one after elutiion (fraction B) with α-methyl-glucopyrannoside. Fraction B contained Clq and precipitated upon double diffusion in agarose against fraction A. The anionic nature of fraction A was demonstrated by electrophoresis in agarose. Fraction B Clq was found to be more soluble in low ionic strength buffers and to have an increased hemolytic activity. Fraction A inhibited Clq hemolytic activity in a dose dependent fashion. This effect could not be eliminated by DNA-ase digestion.
Chromatography with permeable supports: Theory and comparison with experiments

Abstract An analysis of the flow field and transport processes in a bed of permeable spherical particles for chromatography is presented. Quantitative relationships are provided to relate the intraparticle flow to the permeability of the particles and the bed properties. A theoretical development focused on the response of the bed to pulse injections of inert and linearly sorbed solutes shows how intraparticle convection enhances intraparticle transport, improving the efficiency of chromatographic operations. The theory developed is consistent with experimental results obtained for low molecular weight solutes and proteins with a commercial large-pore support. For this system, the HETP is observed to increase linearly at low flow rates, leveling off to a plateau at high flow rates when intraparticle transport becomes dominated by convection.
Computer use of a medical dictionary to select search words

Abstract In a preceding experiment in text-searching retrieval for cancer questions, search words were humanly selected with the aid of a medical dictionary and cancer textbooks. Recall results were (1) using only stems of question words (humanly stemmed): 20%; (2) adding dictionary search words: 29%; (3) adding also textbook search words: 70%. For the experiment reported here, computer procedures for using the medical dictionary to select search words were developed. Recall results were (1) for question stems (computer stemmed): 19%; (2) adding search words computer selected from the dictionary: 24 %. Thus the computer procedures compared to human use of the dictionary were 50% successful. Human and computer false retrieval rates were almost equal. Some hypotheses about computer selection of search words from textbooks are also described.
Preventing Youths from Joining Gangs: How to Apply Inoculation Theory

Over the past twenty years, gang prevalence, the number of gang members nationwide, and the seriousness of their impact on society, particularly schools, have increased significantly. The purpose of this article is to analyze Inoculation Theory, a process by which attitude transformation can be resisted during social interactions that involve persuasive messages designed to change existing attitudes, and to promote its application as a solid method for preventing youths from joining gangs in and nearby schools. This analysis is original and unique in that Inoculation Theory has not yet been applied in the reduction of violence and crime in youths.
Piezoelectric-actuator excited-wave field solutions for guided-wave structural health monitoring

This work addresses the 3-D elasticity modeling of the guided wave (GW) fields excited by piezoelectric actuators in various configurations for isotropic structures. First, a general derivation for the GW field excited by an arbitrary shape, finite dimension, and surface-bonded piezo actuator in isotropic plates is presented. This is then used to generate solutions for the specific cases of ring-shaped and rectangular piezo actuators and rectangular Macro Fiber Composite actuators. An expression for the response of a piezo-sensor in a GW field is developed. Experimental verification supporting the model is provided. Excellent correlation is found between theoretical and experimental results.
Fenbendazole Clearance from Goat Milk

Abstract Eight Nubian does were distributed into treatment groups and received fenbendazole orally as a paste suspension at a dose of 5 or 25 mg/kg. Milk residues were monitored for 120 h post treatment by sampling at twelve-hour intervals. The half life of elimination from the milk was 9.6 h and proceeded in a single exponential manner 24 h after oral dosing. There were no detectable levels (detection limit 0.01 μg/ml) of fenbendazole in milk from the 5 mg/kg fenbendazole treated does after 48 h, and from the 25 mg/kg fenbendazole treated does after 72 h. The data suggest that a common practice of milk discarding for 96 h post fenbendazole treatment is sufficient to prevent contamination of milk food products by this anthelminthic.
The bactericidal and bacteriostatic effects of pinacyanole

Staining properties of pinacyanole on bacteria, its in vitro germicidal effect, its toxicity, and certain other characteristics have been determined and the results are reported in this paper. The conclusion reached as a result of these studies is that pinacyanole may possess useful therapeutic properties.
Stimulation of Transcription Factors NFκB and AP1 in Endothelial Cells Subjected to Shear Stress

Hemodynamic shear stress forces influence several important endothelial genes associated with arterial relaxation, pro/anti-coagulation, and growth control; however, the regulatory pathways remain unclear. Here we demonstrate stimulation of DNA binding activities of nuclear factor kappa B (NF kappa B), a member of the Rel Family of transcription factors, and nuclear factor activator protein-1 (AP-1) following exposure of endothelial cells to unidirectional shear stress in laminar flow. NF kappa B binding was stimulated within 30 minutes, reaching and maintaining maximal levels at 1 hour. DNA binding activity was inhibited by pre-incubation of nuclear extract with antibody directed against NF kappa B p65 subunit. AP-1 binding activity was biphasic, rising fourfold within 20 minutes and returning to basal levels before steadily increasing by 2 hours to a high level relative to basal values. These protein kinase C-coupled transcriptional factors may modulate endothelial genes that are shear stress-responsive and that possess appropriate binding sites in the promoter region.
The behaviour of hot-film anemometers in gas mixtures

The behaviour of hot-film anemometers in helium-air and argon-air gas mixtures is reported. Cylindrical parabolic and single-ended sensor geometries were examined. Unlike that of uncoated hot-wire anemometers, the behaviour of quartz-coated hot-film anemometers is only weakly influenced by the 'thermal slip' effect that is produced by a poor thermal accommodation coefficient between the gas and the hot sensor. The cylindrical sensor oriented with its axis normal to the flow is recommended for most applications. However, for dirty flows the parabolic sensor should be used.
Abcès récurrents du membre inférieur comme manifestation primaire d’une fistule para-prothétique aorto-fémorale

Un homme de 62 ans s’est presente avec des abces recurrents du membre inferieur. Il avait un pontage aorto-bifemoral pour maladie aorto-iliaque occlusive. Le diagnostic de fistule para-prothetique etait confirme par un angioscanner, tandis que la scintigraphie aux leucocytes marques etait negative. La prothese droite etait enlevee et un pontage femoro-femoral extra-anatomique etait fait avec resection ileale segmentaire de l’anse affectee et une anastomose latero-laterale. Les suites etaient simples, sans recidive de l’abces 18 mois apres la chirurgie. A notre connaissance, c’est le premier rapport publie d’une fistule para-prothetique se presentant comme des abces recurrents du membre inferieur. Dans cet article, nous avons discute la presentation clinique, les principaux resultats des tests diagnostiques, et les options therapeutiques.
The role of cadherin-mediated adhesion in breast cancer.

The cell adhesion molecule E-cadherin is expressed on the basolateral surfaces of normal mammary epithelial cells and is lost in a subset of breast cancers. Loss of E-cadherin expression has been postulated to facilitate tumor cell detachment from a primary tumor ultimately leading to metastasis. In this paper, I review the publishedin vitro data that initially supported this “invasion suppressor” role for E-cadherin as well as more recentin vitro andin vivo data showing that E-cadherin-positive tumor cells can metastasize. I examine other molecules required for E-cadherin function and discuss how defects in the expression or function of these molecules might alter E-cadherin function in E-cadherin-positive tumor cells. For example, loss of expression or function of catenins, intracellular molecules that interact with E-cadherin, can result in the loss of E-cadherin-mediated adhesion and a more invasive phenotype. Altered phosphorylation of E-cadherin or catenins can also influence E-cadherin function. Finally, expression of other cell surface molecules such as mucins may interfere with E-cadherin function. The collective effect of these molecules on the adhesive phenotype of breast cancer cells may be one determinant of metastatic potential.
Partially oriented short-fiber beds for downstream processing of biomolecules

Abstract The concept of partially oriented, short-fiber beds has been introduced. It has been shown that these novel beds have the potential for simultaneously providing a high adsorption capacity and high throughput capability. These beds are likely to find applications in the downstream processing of biochemicals.
Reusing proofs of program correctness in ENCOMPASS

If a program's proof of correctness can be reused, higher quality may be achieved with reasonable cost. Unfortunately, reusing proofs of program correctness is difficult. The approach being taken toward this problem in the ENCOMPASS project is explored. Specifically, the author presents examples of three types of proof reuse: instantiating (reusing) a parameterized component and its proof, reusing a development step with its proof, and reusing a provably correct program schema. The author believes that, although program verification will, in general, remain expensive, the reuse of verified components may become practical through the use of such methods. >
Contact nuclei breeding in motor controlled sliding of crystal seeds

Abstract A new apparatus for studying contact nucleation of crystals from solution by the Strickland-Constable sliding technique was designed and constructed. Experiments contacted with NaClO3 crystals showed that crystal sliding velocity is a critical parameter determining the number of produced nuclei.
Vitamin D status in children with chronic kidney disease

Background The role of vitamin D status in patients with renal insufficiency and its relation to dietary intake and parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion is of utmost interest given the morbidity and mortality associated with the disordered mineral metabolism seen in chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Long-term kinetics of the light-dependent regulation of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase activity in plants with and without 2-carboxyarabinitol 1-phosphate

The light-dependent modulation of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) activity was studied in two species: Phaseolus vulgaris L., which has high levels of the inhibitor of Rubisco activity, carboxyarabinitol 1-phosphate (CA1P), in the dark, and Chenopodium album L., which has little CA1P. In both species, the ratio of initial to fully-activated Rubisco activity declined by 40–50% within 60 min of a reduction in light from high a photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD; >700 μmol · m−2 · s−1) to a low PPFD (65 ± 15 μmol · m−2 · s−1) or to darkness, indicating that decarbamylation of Rubisco is substantially involved in the initial regulatory response of Rubisco to a reduction in PPFD, even in species with potentially extensive CA1P inhibition. Total Rubisco activity was unaffected by PPFD in C. album, and prolonged exposure (2–6 h) to low light or darkness was accompanied by a slow decline in the activity ratio of this species. This indicates that the carbamylation state of Rubisco from C. album gradually declines for hours after the large initial drop in the first 60 min following light reduction. In P. vulgaris, the total activity of Rubisco declined by 10–30% within 1 h after a reduction in PPFD to below 100 μmol · m−2 · s−1, indicating CA1P-binding contributes significantly to the reduction of Rubisco capacity during this period, but to a lesser extent than decarbamylation. With continued exposure of P. vulgaris leaves to very low PPFDs (< 30 μmol · m−2 · s−1), the total activity of Rubisco declined steadily so that after 6–6.5 h of exposure to very low light or darkness, it was only 10–20% of the high-light value. These results indicate that while decarbamylation is more prominent in the initial regulatory response of Rubisco to a reduction in PPFD in P. vulgaris, binding of CA1P increases over time and after a few hours dominates the regulation of Rubisco activity in darkness and at very low PPFDs.