cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of temperature on hatching and growth performance of embryos and yolk-sac larvae of a threatened estuarine fish: Longfin smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys)

Abstract The abundance of longfin smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys) in the San Francisco Estuary (SFE) has declined to less than 1% of historic numbers, contributing to their listing as “threatened” under the California Endangered Species Act. To prevent local extirpation, a captive culture program is being developed for the longfin smelt at the Fish Conservation Culture Laboratory at UC Davis. To begin systematically addressing current issues with larviculture methods, we tested the effects of temperature on longfin smelt embryos from 7 clutches with different parentages. We reared embryos and newly hatched non-feeding yolk-sac larvae in freshwater at 9, 12, or 15 °C until the age when these fish underwent mass mortality (>90% mortality) during the experiment (3, 4, or 5 days post-hatch (dph), depending on rearing temperature). We measured hatch success, hatch morphometrics (notochord length, dry mass, yolk volume, and oil volume), length and dry mass growth rates, yolk and oil resorption rates, routine oxygen consumption rate, and locomotor activity (percent of time spent moving, total distance travelled, and average swimming velocity). Embryos and larvae reared at 15 °C performed poorly, experiencing reduced hatch success, hatch notochord lengths, growth rates, and earlier mass mortality. Embryos reared at 9 and 12 °C had similar hatch success but at hatch, larvae were longer at 9 compared to 12 °C. However, larvae grew faster in 12 compared to 9 °C resulting in both temperature groups having similar lengths prior to mass mortality (4 dph for 12 °C and 5 dph for 9 °C). Temperature had no effect on routine oxygen consumption rate among temperature groups but locomotor activity was elevated at 9 and 15 °C groups compared to 12 °C, suggesting that locomotor activity consumed a higher proportion of the energy budget, leaving a smaller fraction for growth. Finally, larval swimming speeds, one day prior to each temperature's respective day of mass mortality, were higher at 12 °C (3 dph) compared to 9 (4 dph) and 15 °C (2 dph), which could lead to higher foraging success. Interclutch variation was high, however, suggesting that parentage effects may result in brood-specific variation in the responses of larvae to water temperature. Taken together, these data suggest that rearing longfin smelt at 15 °C would have detrimental effects and we suggest that cooler temperatures such as 9 or 12 °C may improve the culturing of the earliest life stages of longfin smelt.
The mean field approach for populations of spiking neurons

Mean field theory is a device to analyze the collective behavior of a dynamical system comprising many interacting particles. The theory allows to reduce the behavior of the system to the properties of a handful of parameters. In neural circuits, these parameters are typically the firing rates of distinct, homogeneous subgroups of neurons. Knowledge of the firing rates under conditions of interest can reveal essential information on both the dynamics of neural circuits and the way they can subserve brain function. The goal of this chapter is to provide an elementary introduction to the mean field approach for populations of spiking neurons. We introduce the general idea in networks of binary neurons, starting from the most basic results and then generalizing to more relevant situations. This allows to derive the mean field equations in a simplified setting. We then derive the mean field equations for populations of integrate-and-fire neurons. An effort is made to derive the main equations of the theory using only elementary methods from calculus and probability theory. The chapter ends with a discussion of the assumptions of the theory and some of the consequences of violating those assumptions. This discussion includes an introduction to balanced and metastable networks, and a brief catalogue of successful applications of the mean field approach to the study of neural circuits.
Acrylamide and Related α,β-Unsaturated Carbonyl Derivatives

Acrylamide is a weak electrophile and a member of a large class of structurally related type-2 alkenes that includes acrolein and other well-known toxicants. Human exposure occurs through occupation, pollution, diet, and cigarette smoking and can result in mental status changes, ataxia, and skeletal muscle weakness. Acrylamide neurotoxicity appears to be mediated by early nerve terminal dysfunction in the peripheral and central nervous systems. Although the precise mechanism is unknown, acrylamide can inhibit presynaptic protein function by forming covalent bonds (adducts) with sulfhydryl thiolate groups on corresponding cysteine residues. Some evidence also suggests that acrylamide is a developmental toxicant and a possible carcinogen.
Perilymph antigen and antibody levels following an immunologically-induced middle ear effusion.

A causal relationship between chronic otitis media (COM) and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) has been suggested (PAPARELLA et al., 1970, 1972; GARDENGHI, 1955). The potential etiology of inner ear dysfunction in this setting is unknown, but various hypotheses have been proposed which include the passage of toxic products from the middle ear into the inner ear and the deleterious effects on the cochlea of ototoxic drops used to treat suppurative episodes. To add credence to these hypotheses has been the observation that the round window membrane is semipermeable and as such permits passage of substances into the inner ear. RHODES (1980) and GOYCOOLEA et al. (1980) have demonstrated the movement of horseradish peroxidase and radiolabelled albumin across the round window membrane into the inner ear. ARNOLD has reported lymphatic connections between the middle ear space and scala tympani which traverse the round window membrane (ARNOLD and ILBERG, 1971; ARNOLD, 1976). COM is associated with production of local middle ear immune responses and byproducts of inflammation. SUZUKI (1977) demonstrated increased protein levels in the inner ear in the presence of acute middle ear inflammation. We undertook this study to determine whether antigen, antibody or both from an immunologically-induced middle ear effusion could pass into the perilymphatic space. Identification of elevated antibody or antigen within the perilymph of these animals would raise the possibility that these substances might play either a protective or injurious role within the inner ear in the presence of middle ear inflammation.
Structure and light-regulated expression of phycoerythrin genes in wild-type and phycobilisome assembly mutants of Synechocystis sp. strain PCC 6701.

Abstract Phycoerythrin is a major pigmented component of the phycobilisome, a cyanobacterial light-harvesting complex. It contains bilin-type chromophores that absorb and transfer light energy to chlorophyll protein complexes of the photosynthetic membranes. In many cyanobacteria, phycoerythrin expression is regulated by light wavelength in a response known as chromatic adaptation. Green light-grown cells contain higher levels of this biliprotein than do cells grown in red light. The phycoerythrin gene set from the unicellular cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. strain PCC 6701 was cloned and sequenced, and the 5' end of the phycoerythrin mRNA was localized. The amino acid sequences of the phycoerythrin subunits from Synechocystis strain 6701 and Fremyella diplosiphon were 90% identical. As observed in F. diplosiphon, the Synechocystis strain 6701 phycoerythrin transcript accumulated to high levels in green light-grown cells and low levels in red light-grown cells. Similar nucleotide sequences, which might control gene expression, occurred upstream of the transcription initiation sites of the phycoerythrin genes in both organisms. While the phycoerythrin structure and light-regulated transcript accumulation were similar in Synechocystis strain 6701 and F. diplosiphon, the steady-state levels of phycoerythrin subunits during growth in red light were quite different for the two organisms. This observation suggests that control of phycoerythrin levels in Synechocystis strain 6701 is complex and may involve posttranscriptional processes. We also characterized the phycoerythrin genes and mRNA levels in two phycobilisome assembly mutants, UV16-40 and UV16.
A Network Coloring Game

We analyze a network coloring game which was first proposed byMichael Kearns and others in their experimental study of dynamicsand behavior in social networks. In each round of the game, eachplayer, as a node in a network G, uses a simple, greedy and selfishstrategy by choosing randomly one of the available colors that isdifferent from all colors played by its neighbors in the previousround. We show that the coloring game converges to its Nashequilibrium if the number of colors is at least two more than themaximum degree. Examples are given for which convergence does nothappen with one fewer color. We also show that with probability atleast 1 − Δ, the number of roundsrequired is O(log(n/Δ)).
On the Controllability and Observability of Hybrid Systems

This paper considers a special class of hybrid systems, whose state space is a cross-product space of an Euclidean space and a finite-state space. Such models may be used to represent systems subject to known abrupt parameter variations, such as commutated networks. They may also be used to approximate some types of time-varying systems. The paper investigates controllability, observability, and stability of hybrid systems. In particular, it derives a necessary and sufficient algebraic condition, a simple algebraic criterion, and a computationally simple algebraic sufficient test for controllability and observability. Moreover, it provides a simple sufficient stability condition.
Diet and Lifestyle Associations of Stress in Two Older Adult Communities

Chronic stress negatively affects wellness, and is associated with chronic disease in older adults. Certain lifestyle factors such as a healthy diet and religious/spiritual involvement have been found to mitigate stress and improve health outcomes. We investigated stress and other wellness measures in financially secure male and female older adults, 蠅65 yrs old and without debilitating physical or mental impairment, living in a vowed Catholic community (VCC) or an independent retirement community (IRC). We hypothesized that participants living in a cloistered religious environment would experience less stress and have a higher level of wellness than those living in a cohesive secular environment. Study assessments included questions about lifestyle, the Perceived Stress Scale-10, Geriatric Depression Scale-15, Spirituality Index of Well-Being, a 24-hr dietary recall, and non-invasive physical measurements. Mann-Whitney U tests revealed no significant differences in age, gender, BMI, macronutrient intakes,...
Ceramic applications in turbine engines

In the past the potential of vehicular gas engines could not be realized because component materials served to limit the turbine operating temperature, thereby restricting fuel economy and initial cost. It was, therefore, not possible for the vehicular gas turbine to compete with more conventional engines. The emergence of low-cost, high-temperature ceramic components has the potential to reverse this situation. For example, the Allison GT404 engine, operating with ceramic components at turbine inlet temperatures up to 2350 F to 2500 F, has the potential of a fuel economy which is better than that of current Diesel engines. The Allison AGT100 engine operating with ceramic components offers the possibility of a 30% improvement in fuel economy over 1985 spark ignition engines. The materials considered for an employment in the ceramic components include silicon carbide, silicon nitride, aluminum silicate, and lithium aluminum silicate.
A deterministic dynamic element matching approach to ADC testing

A deterministic dynamic element matching (DEM) approach to ADC testing is introduced and compared with a common random DEM method. With both approaches, a highly non-ideal DAC is used to generate an excitation for a DUT that has linearity that far exceeds that of the test stimulus. Simulation results show that both methods can be used for testing of ADCs but with a substantial reduction in the number of samples required for the deterministic DEM method. This technique of using an imprecise excitation to test an accurate ADC offers potential for use in both production test and BIST environments.
Defective Autologous Mixed-Lymphocite Reaction and Suppressor Cell Generation in Patients with Inflammatory Bower Disease

Impaired regulation of immune function may contribute to the abnormal immune responses associated with idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease. We examined the autologous mixed-lymphocyte culture in inflammatory bowel disease patients because this reaction may reflect self regulation of immune responses in vivo and results in activation of suppressor T cells in vitro. We also examined suppressor Tcell generation in two separate assays. In contrast to healthy and disease controls who had normal values, the autologous mixed-lymphocyte culture response was diminished in 44 of 51 (86%) patients with inflammatory bowel disease, independent of disease type, activity, or steroid therapy. Fourteen of 17 inflammatory bowel disease patients (83%) had decreased suppressor T-cell generation. These results show a distinct abnormality in autologous mixed-lymphocyte culture reactivity and in generation of suppressor cells in inflammatory bowel disease. Such impaired immune regulation may be partly responsible for the immunologic aberrations observed in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
Ethyl N‐Phenylformimidate

Ethyl N-phenylformimidate intermediate: N,N′-diphenylformamidine product: Ethyl N-phenylformimidate Keywords: alkylation, N-alkylation; tape, heating
Ab Initio Calculation of 81Br Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance Transition Frequencies for Brominated Aromatics (Flame Retardants)

Brominated aromatics, used extensively as flame retardants, have been studied with 81Br nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) spectroscopy. NQR requires lengthy frequency searches because 81Br NQR transition frequencies in brominated aromatics are spread over a wide (40 MHz) range. We investigate the ability of ab initio calculations to narrow this search range by predicting 81Br NQR transition frequencies for a series of brominated aromatics, using restricted Hartree−Fock (RHF) and Becke's three-parameter Lee−Yang−Parr density functional theory hybrid method (B3LYP). Basis sets used are of double and triple-ζ quality with varying degrees of polarization included on bromine. Geometries are the isolated molecules, with coordinates optimized for lowest energy. The results of calculations for nine simple brominated aromatics are fit against experimental frequencies and the fit is subsequently used to predict frequencies of larger, two-ring brominated aromatics (one is sold commercially as a flame retardant). Co...
Botulinum Toxin Treatment of Myofascial Pain: A Critical Review of the Literature

This is a review of literature relevant to the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome by botulinum injections. The objective is to critically review the studies to see if they are appropriately designed, conducted, and interpreted to provide guidance in the management of myofascial pain. The intent is to better understand the mixed results that these studies have provided. A search was made utilizing PubMed for literature relevant to the use of botulinum toxin in the treatment of myofascial pain. All identifiable series were reviewed, including open label, single-blinded and double-blinded studies, randomized and controlled, or not. In general, small case series of only a few patients were not included unless they made a relevant point and there were no available randomized studies or larger studies. Single case reports were not included. This is not a meta-analysis. The studies were evaluated according to their design and the selection of outcome measurements, and the interpretation of results. The studies were individually critiqued, and an overall assessment and commentary was made of the studies in the field as a whole. Problems that were common to the studies were robust placebo responders, incomplete treatment of a regional myofascial pain syndrome, inappropriate or confounding control populations or treatments, and inappropriate time periods for assessment of outcomes, or misinterpretation of the time-frame of action of botulinum toxin. The studies of the effect of botulinum toxin treatment of myofascial trigger points have had mixed results. However, few studies have been designed to avoid many of the pitfalls associated with a trial of botulinum toxin treatment of trigger points. Better-designed studies may give results that can be used to guide practice based on reliable evidence. At the present time, one must conclude that the available evidence is insufficient to guide clinical practice.
Reconfigurable Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor

The conventional Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor (SH-WFS) has a fixed subaperture area that is determined by consideration of several parameters such as the average atmospheric coherence diameter r 0 at the telescope site. Its SNR can be severely degraded due to low-light conditions caused by increasing turbulence, strong atmospheric scintillation, or simply viewing a faint object. Typically, the integration time of the sensor is increased to improve the SNR. Unfortunately, a decrease in bandwidth causes an increase in residual wavefront error that reduces image quality. We show that an increase in subaperture area produces a smaller residual wavefront error than an equivalent increase in integration time. Furthermore, we show that the ability to reconfigure the subaperture area, in combination with control bandwidth adjustment, provides superior performance over a system with fixed subaperture area when r 0 is different than the design point. We present a reconfigurable Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor (RSH-WFS) with adjustable subaperture area implemented using a phase-modulated liquid crystal device (LCD). Experimental results demonstrate that the RSH-WFS increases system dynamic range by increasing the subaperture diameter whenever the Hartmann spot irradiance falls below the threshold of operation of the conventional SH-WFS.
Various Methods for Assessing Static Lower Extremity Alignment: Implications for Prospective Risk-Factor Screenings

Context: Accurate, efficient, and reliable measurement methods are essential to prospectively identify risk factors for knee injuries in large cohorts. Objective: To determine tester reliability us...
Fluorescence of some proteins, nucleic acids and related compounds.

Abstract 1. 1. A simple method for the measurement of fluorescence efficiencies for compounds in solution has been described. 2. 2. Fluorescence efficiencies for some amino acids, nucleotides, and their derivatives have been reported. The nucleotides and nucleic acids exhibit little or no fluorescence in contrast to the proteins and aromatic amino acids, especially tryptophan, which fluoresce in the ultraviolet. 3. 3. The fluorescence of the proteins is related to their content of aromatic amino acids. 4. 4. The fluorescence efficiencies of the aromatic amino acids and proteins are dependent upon pH. In the case of tryptophan, at least, oxygen has no effect upon the fluorescence efficiency.
Dynamic updates for web and cloud applications

The center of mass for newly-released applications is shifting from traditional, desktop or server programs, toward web and cloud computing applications. This shift is favorable to end-users, but puts additional burden on application developers and service providers. In particular, the newly emerging development methodologies, based on dynamic languages and multi-tier setups, complicate tasks such as verification and require end-to-end, rather than program-local guarantees. Moreover, service providers need to provide continuous service while accommodating the fast evolution pace characteristic of web and cloud applications. A promising approach for providing uninterrupted service while keeping applications up-to-date is to permit dynamic software updates, i.e., applying dynamic patches to running programs. In this paper we focus on safe dynamic updates for web and cloud applications; we point out difficulties associated with dynamic updates for these applications, present some of our preliminary results, and lay out directions for future work.
Treatment schedule as a determinant of the development of tolerance to haloperidol

Three groups of rats received haloperidol 0.5 mg/kg IP twice daily for 20 days, twice daily for 10 days, or every other day for 40 days. The rats in control groups received saline injections according to the same schedules as the experimental groups. During the chronic treatments, spontaneous motor activity was measured as an indicator of behavioral tolerance, and at the completion of treatments, limbic and striatal homovanillic acid (HVA) levels were determined in order to provide a biochemical indication of tolerance. Both of the haloperidol groups on twice-daily injection schedules exhibited a trend towards recovery of spontaneous motor activity during treatment, indicative of behavioral tolerance, as well as reduced HVA levels indicative of near complete biochemical tolerance. The group receiving haloperidol every other day exhibited a trend toward behavioral intolerance to haloperidol, along with elevated HVA levels that indicated a complete absence of tolerance. The suggested importance of treatment schedule rather than cumulative drug dosage in the development of tolerance to haloperidol may have significance to long-term side effects of chronic neuroleptic treatment such as tardive dyskinesia and clinical issues such as drug holidays.
STABLE BINDING OF DNA TO ZWITTERIONIC LIPID BILAYERS IN AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS

We found that DNA molecules bind strongly to zwitterionic dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine lipid bilayers in solutions, facilitating in situ imaging with an atomic force microscope. The binding strength has a lower limit of about 2 kT per helical turn with kT the thermal energy at room temperature. The height of membrane-bound DNA is the same as the diameter of DNA, indicating no compression by the tip at a probe force of about 0.1 nN.
Make this!: introduction to electronics prototyping using arduino

This course is a hands-on introduction to interactive electronics prototyping for people with a variety of backgrounds, including those with no prior experience in electronics. Familiarity with programming is helpful, but not required. Participants learn basic electronics, microcontroller programming and physical prototyping using the Arduino platform, then use digital and analog sensors, LED lights and motors to build, program and customize a small paper robot.
Time Scales in Homogenization of Periodic Flows with Vanishing Molecular Diffusion

Abstract We study the long time transport property of conservative systems perturbed by a small white noise. We introduce the dissipation and martingale times and show how they are related to the diffusion time on which a limit theorem is valid. The limit theorem is a probabilistic version of homogenization with vanishing molecular diffusion. Examples of nontrivial time scales are given.
Risk areas for pediatric acute care: asthma differs from upper and lower respiratory illness

Abstract Objective To determine if emergency department utilization for pediatric respiratory illness varies across small geographic jurisdictions within a large urban city. Design A retrospective analysis of Maryland Health Services Cost Review Commission Emergency Department discharge data. Setting/patients All non-neonatal, Baltimore City residents n =245,339). Main outcome measures Crude and adjusted ED visit rates for asthma, upper and lower respiratory illnesses (per 1000 population). To evaluate the effect of geography on pediatric ED visit rates, odds of an asthma ED visit, URI, or LRI vs. non-respiratory ED visit were compared across regions of the city. Results We determined that residential areas with high ED utilization rates for upper and lower respiratory illnesses, as well as non-respiratory illnesses correlate with regions of high ED utilization for asthma, even after adjusting for race, gender and age of the population. The regions with high odds ratios that an ED visit was for asthma were different from those with high ORs for URI and LRI after also controlling for poverty. Conclusions This suggests that poverty accounts for high utilization of the ED in urban settings, but suggests that environmental exposures that increase the risk of ED care for asthma differ from those that lead to URI and LRI.
Attenuating the decline in ATP arrests the exercise training-induced increases in muscle GLUT4 protein and citrate synthase activity

Thirty-two female Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to one of four groups: control (CON); exercise training (TR); exercise training + clenbuterol treatment (0.8 mg kg body wt(-1) d(-1)) (TR + CL) or exercise training + clenbuterol treatment + 2% beta-guanidinoproprionic acid diet (TR + CL + beta) to examine whether alterations in the high energy phosphate state of the muscle mediates exercise training-induced increases in skeletal muscle GLUT4 protein concentration and citrate synthase activity. Exercise training consisted of running the rats 5 d week(-1) for 8 weeks on a motor-driven treadmill (32 m min(-1), 15% grade). Gastrocnemius GLUT4 protein concentration and citrate synthase activity were significantly elevated in the TR animals, but these adaptations were attenuated in the TR + CL animals. Providing beta-GPA in combination with clenbuterol enabled training to elevate GLUT4 protein concentration and citrate synthase activity, with the increase in GLUT4 being greater than that observed for the TR animals. Skeletal muscle ATP levels were reduced in the TR + CL + beta animals while ATP levels in the TR + CL animals were significantly elevated compared with CON. An acute 40-min bout of electrical stimulation of the sciatic nerve was found to lower skeletal muscle ATP levels by approximately 50% and elevate cAMP levels in all groups. No difference in post-contraction cAMP levels were observed among groups. However, post-contraction ATP levels in the TR + CL animals were significantly greater than the other groups. Collectively, these findings suggest that exercise training-induced increases in skeletal muscle GLUT4 protein concentration and citrate synthase activity are initiated in response to a reduction in the skeletal muscle ATP concentration.
Low incidence of pathology detection and high cost of screening in the evaluation of asymptomatic short children

Objective To determine the incidence of pathology during routine screening of healthy short children, testing adherence to a consensus statement on the diagnosis and treatment of children with idiopathic short stature, and the cost per identified diagnosis resulting from comprehensive screening. Study design Retrospective chart review of 1373 consecutive short stature referrals evaluated at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic between 2008 and 2011. We identified 235 patients with a height of <3rd percentile, negative history and review of systems, and normal physical examination. Outcome measures were incidence of pathology detection, diagnostic group characteristics, clinicians’ adherence to testing guidelines, and screening costs. ANOVA and c 2 were used to analyze the data. Results Nearly 99% of patients were diagnosed as possible variants of normal growth: 23% with familial short stature, 41% with constitutional delay of growth and maturation, and 36% with idiopathic short stature. The incidence of newly diagnosed pathology was 1.3%: 1 patient with biopsy-proved celiac disease, 1 with unconfirmed celiac disease, and 1 with potential insulin-like growth factor I receptor defect. On average, each patient had 64.3% of the recommended tests for age and sex; 2.1% of patients had all of the recommended testing. The total screening tests costs were $315321, yielding $105107 per new diagnosis entertained. Conclusions Healthy short children do not warrant nondirected, comprehensive screening. Future guidelines for evaluating short stature should include patient-specific testing. (J Pediatr 2013;163:1045-51).
Transverse spin relaxation in inhomogeneous magnetic fields

We discuss the transition between two limiting cases of transverse spin relaxation due to magnetic-field inhomogeneities: very fast spatial diffusion, when the spins relax exponentially with time, and very slow spatial diffusion, when the spins relax exponentially with the cube of the time. Both limiting cases as well as intermediate cases can be described in terms of Airy functions, which are the eigenfunctions of the time-independent Torrey equation. Branch points in the eigenvalue spectrum and other interesting properties follow from the fact that the Torrey equation is not self-adjoint.
Eyelid myoclonia with absences: routine EEG is sufficient to make a diagnosis.

Summary Purpose To identify the prevalence, clinical characteristics and routine EEG features of the syndrome of eyelid myoclonia with absences (EMA) using a retrospective case control study design. Methods EEGs from 1996 to 2005 were searched using the following keywords: eyelid flutter, eyelid blinking, tics, idiopathic generalized epilepsy, clinical absence, atypical absence and photoparoxysmal response. During the same period, patients with a diagnosis of idiopathic generalized epilepsy were identified. Patients with mainly eyelid fluttering/eyelid blinking as their seizure semiology were divided into EMA and non-EMA groups using previously published criteria and compared using parametric (Student's t -test) and non-parametric tests (Chi square) where appropriate. A p -value of Results The keywords identified 997 patients, 288 patients were diagnosed with idiopathic generalized epilepsy; 126 had eyelid fluttering/blinking as their major seizure semiology. After excluding 51 patients due to incomplete data, of 75 remaining patients, 26 (9.03%) had EMA. Patients with EMA were (1) older at time of first EEG (OR=2.86; 95% CI=7.00–10.23; p =0.005) (2) more likely to have an event on routine EEG (OR=3.62; 95% CI=1.28–10.19; p =0.01) (3) had >3 events per day (OR=9.73; 95% CI=2.06–45.96; p =0.0012) (4) had higher prevalence of developmental delay (OR=4.46; 95% CI=1.36–14.67; p =0.01) and (5) had normal EEG background compared to the non-EMA group. Conclusion EMA is not uncommon; diagnosis can be made with good clinical history and routine EEG. As developmental delay is a common association with EMA in this study, early identification and treatment are important.
Mutations in U1 snRNA bypass the requirement for a cell type-specific RNA splicing factor

Previous studies have demonstrated that efficient splicing of the primary transcript of the yeast MER2 gene requires the MER1 protein, which is produced only in meiotic cells. A genetic selection was devised to recover second-site mutations that bypass the requirement for MER1 in MER2 RNA-splicing. This selection identified a mutation in SNR19, the gene for U1 snRNA. The suppressor mutation affects the first residue in U1 snRNA, allowing this nucleotide to base pair with the eighth nucleotide in the MER2 intron. This base in MER2 lies outside the conserved hexanucleotide that defines the 5' splice site in yeast. The MER2 5' splice site (GUUCGU) differs from the consensus in yeast (GUAYGU) at the third position. When this nucleotide is mutated to restore the consensus, base pairing with U1 snRNA is increased and the requirement for MER1 is alleviated.
Effects of synchrony between primate corticomotoneuronal cells on post-spike facilitation of muscles and motor units

Cross-correlating the activity of neighboring motor cortex neurons recorded with independent electrodes in behaving monkeys has revealed synchronization peaks, largely due to common synaptic input. Corticomotoneuronal (CM) cells produced post-spike facilitation (PSF) of rectified forearm electromyograms (EMG); 15 cells synchronized with CM cells showed no PSF. Five pairs of CM cells with overlapping muscle fields exhibited similar synchrony peaks. The contribution of this synchrony to facilitation of common target muscles was assessed by two new methods: selective spike-triggered averaging and convolution. They showed that the PSF is composed predominantly of effects mediated by output of the triggering cell, but may include a broad, shallow component mediated by synchrony with other CM cells.
Theoretical infrared and terahertz spectra of an RDX/aluminum complex.

Density functional theory is employed to characterize the infrared and terahertz spectra of an explosive molecular species, RDX, deposited over an aluminum surface, modeled as a planar cluster of Al16. Changes in the inter- and intramolecular vibrational modes are systematically analyzed starting from the isolated monomer, dimer, and tetramer and then considering the interactions of the monomer with an Al plate. The results are compared to available experimental information for RDX films on Al surfaces. It is found that the RDX molecule changes conformation because of the interaction with the model Al surface, becoming closer to an AAA conformation with the three NO2 groups in nearly axial positions. The calculated spectra serve as an initial guideline to interpret the main peaks of previously reported RDX films on Al.
Ten years of tension: single-molecule DNA mechanics

The basic features of DNA were elucidated during the half-century following the discovery of the double helix. But it is only during the past decade that researchers have been able to manipulate single molecules of DNA to make direct measurements of its mechanical properties. These studies have illuminated the nature of interactions between DNA and proteins, the constraints within which the cellular machinery operates, and the forces created by DNA-dependent motors.
A Systematic Analysis of Members' Environments and Their Expectations of Elected Leaders

It is generally agreed that legislative leadership is contextual (Sinclair 1990). In this article, I explore the context of leadership by examining the relation ship between members' political, electoral and institutional constraints and their expectations of legislative leaders. The study of 120 state senators in Maryland, North Carolina, and Ohio reveals that members look to leaders to help them attain the legislative goals inherent in their particular situa tion. The analysis reveals statistically significant relationships between respondents' legislative experience, political ambition, campaign expenditures, electoral vulnerability, party status, party strength, and partisan relation ship with the executive, and their expectations of legislative leaders. The findings of this study underscore the importance of membership environ ment and goals in explaining and defining successful leadership and en courage further study of the effects of environmental context on successful legislative leadership.
Consecutive wide and long single hair-bearing transposition flaps in combination with hair transplantation for the management of slot formation after alopecia reducing surgery.

BACKGROUND. Because the Frechet-style triple hair-bearing transposition flaps use up a great deal of scalp laxity from both occipitoparietal areas, it is virtually impossible to perform simultaneous donor harvesting for hair transplantation. The flaps in this technique are also prone to tip necroses due to their narrow width and pointed tips. This article presents a sequential protocol that dramatically and easily treats the slot, while simultaneously allowing hair transplantation to be performed to the frontal area. OBJECTIVE. To present a simple method that combines hair transplantation with consecutive wide and long single hair-bearing transposition flaps for the management of slot formation after alopecia reducing surgery. METHOD. A wide and long single hair-bearing transposition flap is first performed. The area directly inferior and contralateral to the side from where the superior flap is transposed is then used for donor harvesting. This method is repeated with each progressive hair grafting session until the desired result is accomplished. RESULTS. In the over 100 cases performed by the author to date, the results have been consistently excellent with complications nonexistent thus far. CONCLUSION. Using consecutive wide and long single hair-bearing transposition flaps is a safer, more aesthetically pleasing, and easier way to manage slot formation when compared with the triple flap technique. Besides these advantages, it affords the surgeon the opportunity to work on the frontal hairline immediately after the flap procedure is performed.
Observation of nonlinear reflectivity from InSb surface and optical switching application

We report the observation of external switching of the reflectivity from the InSb surface by a plasma enhanced absorption mechanism. A HeNe laser and a pulsed CO2 laser were used as probe beam and switching beam respectively. We also report reflectivity switching initiated as a result of a thermal effect in the InSb surface.
Magnetic anisotropies in dot arrays: Shape anisotropy versus coupling

The magnetization and resonance frequencies of submicron Fe magnetic dot arrays are investigated using Brillouin light scattering (BLS) and magneto-optic Kerr Effect (MOKE). Large in-plane anisotropies, evident in both the BLS and MOKE results, are traced to shape anisotropies of the individual dots. The measured magnon frequencies are in good agreement with values calculated on the basis of isolated ellipsoids without interdot coupling.
Long-term yield potential of switchgrass-for-biofuel systems.

Abstract Limited information is available regarding biomass production potential of long-term (>5- yr-old) switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) stands. Variables of interest in biomass production systems include cultivar selection, site/environment effects, and the impacts of fertility and harvest management on productivity and stand life. We studied biomass production of two upland and two lowland cultivars under two different managements at eight sites in the upper southeastern USA during 1999–2001. (Sites had been planted in 1992 and continuously managed for biomass production.) Switchgrass plots under lower-input management received 50 kg N ha−1 yr−1 and were harvested once, at the end of the season. Plots under higher-input management received 100 kg N ha−1 (in two applications) and were harvested twice, in midsummer and at the end of the season. Management effects on yield, N removal, and stand density were evaluated. Annual biomass production across years, sites, cultivars, and managements averaged 14.2 Mg ha−1. Across years and sites, a large (28%) yield response to increased inputs was observed for upland cultivars; but the potential value of higher-input management for lowland cultivars was masked overall by large site×management interactions. Nitrogen removal was greater under the higher-input system largely due to greater N concentrations in the midsummer harvests. Management recommendations (cultivar, fertilization, and harvest frequency), ideally, should be site and cultivar dependent, given the variable responses reported here.
Developing computer integrated manufacturing: Major issues and problem areas

Abstract Computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) is a concept that combines various technologies to produce an entire integrated factory. Usually CIM consists of such technologies as computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM), robotics, automated material handling and identification, machine vision, and a communications network that links them. In addition, the appropriate functional areas such as marketing, purchasing, accounting, and finance should be integrated with CIM components. While there are several real and major benefits to be derived from integration of the processes, many firms have been unsuccessful in their attempts. Because factory automation and integration is a continuous process that will require support from all functional areas, an organization must define its specific short- and long-term needs and goals before attempting implementation. There are several major issues and problem areas that must be addressed if the implementation is to be successful. The first task is to establish whether CIM is going to provide a sustainable competitive advantage for the firm. This is a function of strategic planning. A critical question that management should ask is what the impact of not implementing CIM is likely to be on the company's competitive edge. There are several additional tasks once the major reason is established. One of the first tasks is to define the objectives and benefits of CIM and to sell management on the concept. An immediate issue is the proper cost/benefit analysis. Since CIM represents an innovation, traditional economic analysis is not appropriate. Another problem are is to convince departments used to operating independently that computer integration is going to benefit them. This concept is contrary to the historical evolution of manufacturing. There must be a communications system to integrate the components and this has been one of the most troublesome problems in factory automation. Recent data suggests that there is very little empirical evidence to provide guidance. What we have today on CIM experiences is based on case studies of individual firms. The reader must be cautioned that generalizations should not be made based upon individual case descriptions. There are several alternatives in developing CIM. This paper provides guidance for managers wishing to implement CIM.
A Renormalizable Model for the Galactic Center Gamma Ray Excess from Dark Matter Annihilation

Evidence for an excess of gamma rays with $\mathcal{\text{O}}(\mathrm{GeV})$ energy coming from the center of our galaxy has been steadily accumulating over the past several years. Recent studies of the excess in data from the Fermi telescope have cast doubt on an explanation for the excess arising from unknown astrophysical sources. A potential source of the excess is the annihilation of dark matter into standard model final states, giving rise to gamma ray production. The spectrum of the excess is well fit by 30 GeV dark matter annihilating into a pair of $b$ quarks with a cross section of the same order of magnitude as expected for a thermal relic. Simple models that can lead to this annihilation channel for dark matter are in strong tension with null results from direct detection experiments. We construct a renormalizable model where dark matter-standard model interactions are mediated by a pseudoscalar that mixes with the $CP$-odd component of a pair of Higgs doublets, allowing for the gamma ray excess to be explained while suppressing the direct detection signal. We consider implications for this scenario from Higgs decays, rare $B$ meson decays and monojet searches and also comment on some difficulties that any dark matter model explaining the gamma ray excess via direct annihilation into quarks will encounter.
An ultrastructural study of acid phosphatase localization in cells ofPhaseolus vulgaris phloem by the use of the azo dye method

Abstract The localization of acid phosphatase was studied in the sieve elements and companion cells in the phloem tissue of the bean, Phaseolus vulgaris L. The various organelles in the two kinds of cell showed fine granules of the azo dye as the final reaction product. The aggregated smooth endoplasmic reticulum displayed the dye particularly consistently. The dye was also present in the plasmodesmata and in the contents of the sieve plate pores. The reaction product was conspicuous in the cell walls and tended to be concentrated in the middle lamella and in the nacreous wall layer of the differentiating sieve elements.
The Fibrinolytic Activity of Hemolytic Streptococci from Normal and Diseased Throats

Since the report in 1933 by Tillett and Garner' of a fibrinolytic capacity in beta hemolytic streptococci isolated from severe human infections, several investigators have suggested that a test for fibrinolytic activity might be employed as a means of indicating the virulence of such strains. This test, if proved to be reliable, would be valuable in the early differential diagnosis of acute and mild infections, in the detection of carriers, in the diagnosis of scarlet fever, in the examination of contacts and in the examination of patients for quarantine release. Accepting the presence of actively fibrinolytic hemolytic streptococci in severe infections to have been adequately demonstrated, we have made throat cultures from a large number of normal persons and from a number of those suffering with mild infections, in order to determine if actively fibrinolytic strains are ever present in the absence of a severe infection. In view of favorable results from this study we have later investigated the application of the test to the control of scarlet fever. For our first study we chose a group of 10 students who were apparently free from respiratory infections. We made 8 cultures from each student, at weekly intervals, and tested the hemolytic and fibrinolytic activities of all of the beta hemolytic streptococci isolated. It was hoped that observations could be made on the fibrinolytic activity of streptococci isolated during the onset, the height and the convalescent stages of minor respiratory infections as well as during the absence of evident infection. Each throat swab was washed off in about 10 ml. of warm, sterile physiological salt solution, and the suspension was plated out on horse blood agar. After 18-24 hours' incubation if hemolytic, streptococcus like colonies were present, 8-10 were picked into horse meat infusion broth. The resultant cultures were further purified by plating out on blood agar and those which did not prove to be streptococci were eliminated after microscopic examination. Transfers were made into serum broth from which hemolysin titrations were made after 24 hours' incubation, and into infusion broth from which, after 18 hours' incubation, fibrinolytic tests were made according to the Tillett and Garner' plasma clot technic. In this, as well as in later studies, 4 strains of streptococci, originally isolated from severe infections, that were lytic in less than 30 minutes, were used as checks in order to avoid false results due to the use of a resistant plasma. In addition, we obtained one culture from each of 123 persons, who were apparently free from respiratory infections, and tested the fibrinolytic and