cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assessment of microbial DNA extraction methods of cadaver soil samples for criminal investigations

Gravesoil beneath decomposing cadavers undergoes substantial biochemical changes that have the potential to aid in PMI estimation and identification of clandestine gravesites. The use of DNA extraction methods is necessary for culture-independent downstream molecular applications such as PCR and next-generation sequencing. In this study, a comparison of four methods was performed for cadaver-soil collected beneath the heads and feet of 11 cadavers decaying in a natural setting. The four methods isolated 3.6–263 ng/μl of genomic DNA as determined by optical density analysis. The purity of the extracted DNA according to A260/280 and A260/230 ratios was determined. The A260/280 and A260/230 ratios were 1.24–1.97 and 0.27–2.12, respectively. The optical density at 320 nm was measured for humic acid quantification of the lysates from the method that provided the most efficient removal of humic acid. The results demonstrated that this method provided a 98% reduction of humic acid. PCR of 16S rRNA genes followed...
Analyzing powers in π + p elastic scattering at intermediate energies

The analyzing power, ${A}_{N}$, has been measured for ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$p elastic scattering at ${p}_{\ensuremath{\pi}}$=471, 547, 625, and 687 MeV/c on a transversely polarized target. The results are compared with three recent partial-wave analyses for the isospin (3/2) channel. The agreement with our data for all three analyses is good at 471 MeV/c and reasonable at 547 and 625 MeV/c. At 687 MeV/c two of the analyses show a sharp maximum near cos\ensuremath{\theta}=-0.4 which is not seen in the data. There is no indication in our data of the existence of new, narrow \ensuremath{\Delta} resonances.
Photo-assisted direct writing of conducting aluminum

We have succeeded in selective area deposition of aluminum films by ultraviolet photolytic decomposition of the organometallic complex trimethylamine alane, TMAA-AlH3(N(CH3)3)2. Both ultraviolet and visible light successfully photolysed the alane adduct and resulted in selective area deposition. The light sources exhibited different laser fragmentation mass spectra, suggesting somewhat different decomposition pathways.
RealBrush: painting with examples of physical media

Conventional digital painting systems rely on procedural rules and physical simulation to render paint strokes. We present an interactive, data-driven painting system that uses scanned images of real natural media to synthesize both new strokes and complex stroke interactions, obviating the need for physical simulation. First, users capture images of real media, including examples of isolated strokes, pairs of overlapping strokes, and smudged strokes. Online, the user inputs a new stroke path, and our system synthesizes its 2D texture appearance with optional smearing or smudging when strokes overlap. We demonstrate high-fidelity paintings that closely resemble the captured media style, and also quantitatively evaluate our synthesis quality via user studies.
Definition of a zeolite

Abstract Quotations from the literature are given to provide the basis for discussion of the terms zeolite, molecular sieve, isostructural (isotypic), homeotypic, simple analog, coupled analog, stuffed derivative. Unless an international commission rules otherwise, it is suggested that the term zeolite be used in its historical context: in brief, it is an aluminosilicate whose open tetrahedral framework allows ion exchange and reversible dehydration. The terms zeolite and molecular sieve are not synonymous.
Use of a Double Translocation Heterozygote to Suppress the Growth of a Laboratory Population of the German Cockroach

The effects of sequential releases of double translocation-carrying males, T(8;9),T(3;12), on growth of a laboratory population were studied. Populations were initiated with crosses of 5 double males to 5+/+females (5 replicates). A previously developed progeny group method was used. Releases equaled 1.5 to 2× the number of nymphs in each group. Most hatch was from the 1st 3 oothecae, but that from the 3rd was unexpectedly small. Complete sterility from embryonic trapping occurred in a least one of the 5 replicates of every group. Its occurrence in all replicates was most frequent among F3 groups. The total number of nymphs/generation increased in the F2 but decreased in the F3. A reconstruction of the total population indicated that decline in hatch and, subsequently, in total numbers, began in the 8th and 9th mo, respectively.
Naloxone stimulation of luteinizing hormone secretion in the female monkey: influence of endocrine and experimental conditions.

It is known that opiate administration results in the inhibition of LH release. In this paper, we examine the role of endogenous opiates in the regulation of gonadotropin secretion during the menstrual cycle of the monkey. The objectives of these experiments were to determine the experimental and endocrine conditions that are conducive to increased gonadotropinsecretion in response to endogenous opiate antagonism. In Exp 1, naloxone was administered during the luteal phase to three groups of monkeys under three different experimental conditions. When naloxone (2 mg, iv) was injected into conscious unrestrained or sedated animals, LH secretion increased 2- to 3-fold. In contrast, the same dose of naloxone failed to stimulate LH secretion in monkeys restrained in primate chairs. In Exp 2, the gonadotropin response to acute naloxone administration on each day of the menstrual cycle was determined. A significant increase in the serum LH concentration (≥20% within 40 min of injection) was observed after naloxo...
Compact routing with additive stretch using distance labelings

Distance labelings -- introduced as a new way to encode graph topology in a distributed fashion -- have been an active area of research (see [1, 2] for details). In both exact and approximate settings, results in distance labelings and compact routing (for an introduction, esp. for definitions of routing tables and headers, see [3]) seem to go hand in hand, but so far these results have been produced separately. It was already known that graphs with constantsized separators such as trees, outerplanar graphs, seriesparallel graphs and graphs of bounded treewidth, support both exact distance labelings and optimal (additive stretch 0, multiplicative stretch 1) compact routing schemes, but there are classes of graphs known to admit exact distance labelings which do not have constant-sized separators. Our main result is to demonstrate that every n-vertex graph which supports an exact distance labeling with O(l(n))-sized labels also supports a compact routing scheme with O(l(n) + log2n)-sized headers, O(√n(l(n) + log2n))-sized routing tables, and an additive stretch of 6. Our general result produces the first known compact routing schemes for classes of graphs where no previous compact routing scheme was known, such as permutation graphs.We note that it is possible to improve substantially on our general result for the classes of interval graphs and circular arc graphs (neither of which admits constant-sized separators). In both cases, a compact routing scheme exists with polylogarithmic headers and routing tables, and an additive stretch of 1; due to space constraints, we defer further discussion of these cases to future presentations of this work.
The changing ‘nature’ of Tiwanaku religion and the rise of an Andean state

The means by which past complex societies thrived at high altitudes remain puzzling. In this paper I suggest that religious ideology and ritual practice shaped the cultural processes that fostered Tiwanaku state rise in the south-central Andean highlands. Physical changes in the monumental core of the state's principal centre are particularly revealing. Material transformations in monumental axiality, spatiality, materiality and iconography were critical elements in a changing religion that sought to integrate the symbolism of prominent generative forces such as mountains, vital elements such as water and recurring celestial cycles. After AD 500, Tiwanaku's innovative religion meshed imposing natural features with timeless solar cycles. This embodiment and objectification of nature was increasingly critical for a polity that thrived precariously on an effective coordination of fishing, herding and new technologies of high-altitude farming. The symbolic appropriation of the natural world and its immanent spiritual forces was constitutive of Tiwanaku's political integration of diverse societies and productive landscapes.
Playing Russian roulette with tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

With the advent of molecularly “targeted therapies,” most notably the tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), there has been a significant shift in our formulary from intravenous to orally administered medications. The effect of food on bioavailability is a significant consideration for many drugs, especially those with a narrow therapeutic window. This article focuses on the complicated issue of oncology drug dosing with respect to food, highlighting the impact of food labeling on patient safety. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2013); 93 3, 242–244. doi:10.1038/clpt.2012.245
Impact of weighting matrices in the design of discrete optimal controller based on LQR technique for non-linear system

This paper proposes the design of continuous and discrete optimal controller based on Continuous and Discrete time Linear Quadratic Regulator (CLQR and DLQR). The controllers have been implemented in Pneumatically Actuated Inverted Pendulum system which is basically non-linear in nature. The main aim is to design the optimal controllers with the given specification for the system and to study the impact of the weighting matrices on the behavior of the system for both the continuous and discrete. The performances of the controllers both for continuous and discrete system have been compared and evaluated with the presence of disturbance. Simulation studies have been made to show the effectiveness of the controllers for pendulum system. Finally the effects of weighting matrices in the optimal controller to control the pendulum system have been studied.
Longitudinal influences of knowledge and self-efficacy on exercise behavior : Tests of a mutual reinforcement model

The central tenet of social cognitive theory, that individuals' construal processes and behaviors mutually reinforce each other, is tested for exercise behavior. Two longitudinal data sets (year 1 to year 2 and year 1 to year 6) from the Stanford Five-City Project, a field experiment to promote cardiovascular disease prevention in California, are analyzed through structural equation modeling techniques to evaluate the effects of demographics, exercise knowledge, and exercise self-efficacy on exercise behavior. The effects of exercise behavior on subsequent knowledge and self-efficacy are also examined. In both data sets (year 1 to year 2, N = 1254 and year 1 to year 6, N = 939), education, income, age, and sex were significant predictors of exercise behavior. Self-efficacy and knowledge also predicted behavior. Prior exercise behavior predicted subsequent knowledge and self-efficacy. Prior knowledge and self-efficacy, in turn, predicted subsequent exercise behavior. Recommendations are made for enhancing the effectiveness of public health efforts designed to promote healthy behaviors.
Reversible Tachycardia-Induced Cardiomyopathy

The boy was treated with oxygen, diuretics, digoxin, afterload reduction, and anticoagulation. Despite improvement in symptoms, he remained persistently tachycardic, with variable AV block during sleep. Amiodarone therapy was initiated for …
Quantifying the magnitude of anomalous solar absorption

[1] The data set from ARESE II, sponsored by the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program, provides a unique opportunity to understand solar absorption in the atmosphere because of the combination of three sets of broadband solar radiometers mounted on the Twin Otter aircraft and the ground based instruments at the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Southern Great Plains facility. In this study, we analyze the measurements taken on two clear-sky days and three cloudy days and model the solar radiative transfer in each case with two different models. On the two clear days, the calculated and measured column absorptions agree to better than 10 W m−2, which is about 10% of the total column absorption. Because both the model fluxes and the individual radiometer measurements are accurate to no better than 10 W m−2, we conclude that the models and measurements are essentially in agreement. For the three cloudy days, the model calculations agree very well with each other and on 2 of the 3 days agree with the measurements to 20 W m−2 or less out of a total column absorption of more than 200 W m−2, which is again an agreement at better than 10%. On the third day, the model and measurements agree to either 8 or 14% depending on which value of surface albedo is used. Differences exceeding 10% represent a significant absorption difference between model and observations. In addition to the uncertainty in absorption due to surface albedo, we show that including aerosol with an optical depth similar to that found on clear days can reduce the difference between model and measurement by 5% or more. Thus we conclude that the ARESE II results are incompatible with previous studies reporting extreme anomalous absorption and can be modeled with our current understanding of radiative transfer.
Characterization of the components of the putative mammalian sister chromatid cohesion complex.

Establishing and maintaining proper sister chromatid cohesion throughout the cell cycle are essential for maintaining genome integrity. To understand how sister chromatid cohesion occurs in mammals, we have cloned and characterized mouse orthologs of proteins known to be involved in sister chromatid cohesion in other organisms. The cDNAs for the mouse orthologs of SMC1S.c. and SMC3S.c. , mSMCB and mSMCD respectively, were cloned, and the corresponding transcripts and proteins were characterized. mSMCB and mSMCD are transcribed at similar levels in adult mouse tissues except in testis, which has an excess of mSMCD transcripts. The mSMCB and mSMCD proteins, as well as the PW29 protein, a mouse homolog of Mcd1pS.c./Rad21S.p., form a complex similar to cohesin in X. laevis. mSMCB, mSMCD and PW29 protein levels show no significant cell-cycle dependence. The bulk of the mSMCB, mSMCD and PW29 proteins undergo redistribution from the chromosome vicinity to the cytoplasm during prometaphase and back to the chromatin in telophase. This pattern of intracellular localization suggests a complex role for this group of SMC proteins in chromosome dynamics. The PW29 protein and PCNA, which have both been implicated in sister chromatid cohesion, do not colocalize, indicating that these proteins may not function in the same cohesion pathway. Overexpression of a PW29-GFP fusion protein in mouse fibroblasts leads to inhibition of proliferation, implicating this protein and its complex with SMC proteins in the control of mitotic cycle progression.
Impact of Gastric Filling on Radiation Dose Delivered to Gastroesophageal Junction Tumors

Purpose: This study examined the impact of gastric filling variation on target coverage of gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) tumors in three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT), intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), or IMRT with simultaneous integrated boost (IMRT-SIB) plans. Materials and Methods: Eight patients previously receiving radiation therapy for esophageal cancer had computed tomography (CT) datasets acquired with full stomach (FS) and empty stomach (ES). We generated treatment plans for 3DCRT, IMRT, or IMRT-SIB for each patient on the ES-CT and on the FS-CT datasets. The 3DCRT and IMRT plans were planned to 50.4 Gy to the clinical target volume (CTV), and the same for IMRT-SIB plus 63.0 Gy to the gross tumor volume (GTV). Target coverage was evaluated using dose-volume histogram data for patient treatments simulated with ES-CT sets, assuming treatment on an FS for the entire course, and vice versa. Results: FS volumes were a mean of 3.3 (range, 1.7-7.5) times greater than ES volumes. The volume of the GTV receiving >=50.4 Gy (V{sub 50.4Gy}) was 100% in all situations. The planning GTV V{sub 63Gy} became suboptimal when gastric filling varied, regardless of whether simulation was done on the ES-CT or the FS-CT set. Conclusions: Stomach filling has a negligible impactmore » on prescribed dose delivered to the GEJ GTV, using either 3DCRT or IMRT planning. Thus, local relapses are not likely to be related to variations in gastric filling. Dose escalation for GEJ tumors with IMRT-SIB may require gastric filling monitoring.« less
Compensation Method Research on Plate Mill’s Stiffness Difference

Aiming at the camber problem caused by plate mill’s stiffness difference, this paper put forwards an online compensation method for plate mill’s stiffness difference. Based on the detective actual rolling force in the rolling process, calculate the spring of plate mill’s driving side and non-driving side to get the gap compensation value of plate mill’s stiffness difference. Via plate mill AGC system adjust the two sides’ gap difference online, eliminate additional spring caused by plate mill’s stiffness difference. Online algorithm of plate mill’s stiffness difference embeds in basic automation directly. With the going on of rolling process, update the compensation values constantly according to the changes of rolling force in order to increase the stability and decrease plate camber in the rolling process.
Development of a Slow-Switching Dronpa Variant for 2-Color Super Resolution Imaging of Drp1 During Mitochondrial Fission

We studied the single-molecule photo-switching properties of Dronpa, a green photo-switchable fluorescent protein (PS-FP) and a popular marker for photo-activated localization microscopy (PALM). We found the excitation light photo-activates as well as deactivates Dronpa single molecules, hindering temporal separation and limiting super resolution. To resolve this limitation, we have developed a novel Dronpa variant, rsKame. The increased steric hindrance generated by the mutation reduced the excitation light-induced photo-conversion from the dark to fluorescent state. To demonstrate the applicability of rsKame, we paired it with PAmCherry1 in a 2-color PALM imaging method to observe the inner and outer mitochondrial membrane structures and selectively labeled dynamin related protein 1 (Drp1), responsible for membrane scission during mitochondrial fission. We quantified Drp1 helical ring diameters and lengths showing that the rings undergo changes in diameter between different stages of mitochondrial fission without significant modification of their length. These results support the twistase model of Drp1 constriction with some loss of subunits at the helical ends.
Late Paleozoic remagnetization of Precambrian crystalline rocks along the Precambrian/Carboniferous nonconformity, Rocky Mountains: a relationship among deformation, remagnetization, and fluid migration

Abstract Paleomagnetic and rock magnetic data and petrographic observations demonstrate that Archean to late middle Proterozoic rocks (three localities in metamorphic rocks, two in granitic plutons) in parts of the Rocky Mountains, along and below a regional nonconformity with Carboniferous strata, have acquired a secondary magnetization. This magnetization is exclusively of reverse polarity and, based on its unique direction, was presumably acquired during the Permo-Carboniferous Reverse Superchron. At most sites, the remanence is carried exclusively by hematite, although it also resides in magnetite at some localities. Based on comparison between paleomagnetic poles derived from locality mean secondary magnetizations (e.g. Decl.=137.2°, Incl.=−18.2° α95=4.1°, k=221.4, N=7 of seven samples, Archean gneiss, northern Laramie Range; Decl.=148.7°, Incl.=−15.0°, α95=4.6°, k=77.0, N=14 of 23 samples, Sherman Granite, southern Laramie Range; Decl.=174.3°, Incl.=−18.9°, α95=6.6°, k=48.6, N=11 of 13 samples, metavolcanic rocks, Sandia Mountains) and late Paleozoic reference poles for North America, this secondary magnetization does not appear to have been acquired as a direct consequence of subareal erosion prior to deposition of younger sedimentary strata. At two localities, the age of the remanence is demonstrably younger than the oldest overlying strata. Locally, the nonconformity between basement rocks and late Paleozoic strata, as well as steep shear zones within the basement rocks, may have been efficient channelways for brines flushed out of basins created during Ancestral Rocky Mountains deformation. On a continental scale, migration of fluids and attending remagnetization is consistent with epeirogenic uplift of the Pangean supercontinent and a relative lowering of ground water levels. The fact that these basement rocks do not show evidence of subsequent remagnetization during latest Cretaceous to early Tertiary (Laramide) contraction in this area suggests that the characteristics of the late Paleozoic remagnetization phenomenon were unique in time.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility of 200 Blood Isolates of Coagulase-negative Staphylococci to 20 Antimicrobial Agents

The in vitro susceptibility of 200 strains of coagulase-negative Staphylococci isolated from blood cultures to 20 antimicrobial agents including the newer beta-lactam compounds was compared. Rifampicin, vancomycin, nafcillin and gentamicin were the most active drugs. The newer cephalosporins and related beta-lactam antibiotics did not exhibit superior activity.
Safety of Hepatitis B Vaccine

The editorial by Gerald R. Fink describing the development of yeast recombinant technology at the National Science Foundation ([1 Mar., p. 1213][1]) was enlightening. However, readers may be left with the misconception that persons who receive plasma-derived hepatitis B vaccines risk “infection
Measuring transportation at a human scale: An intercept survey approach to capture pedestrian activity

Pedestrian travel data are critical for measuring and analyzing sustainable transportation systems. However, traditional household travel surveys and analysis methods often ignore secondary modes, such as walking from a street parking space to a store entrance or walking from a bus stop to home. New data collection and analysis techniques are needed, especially in areas where walking is common. This paper describes an intercept survey methodology used to measure retail pharmacy customer travel to, from, and within 20 shopping districts in the San Francisco Bay Area. Of the 1003 respondents, 959 (96 percent) reported all modes of travel used from leaving home until returning home, including secondary modes. Walking was the primary travel mode on 21 percent of respondent tours, but an analysis of secondary modes found that 52 percent of tours included some walking. Pedestrian travel was particularly common within shopping districts, accounting for 65 percent of all trips within 804 meters (0.5 miles) of survey stores. Detailed walking path data from the survey showed that respondents in denser, more mixed-use shopping districts tended to walk along the main commercial street as well as other streets connecting to the core shopping area, while respondent pedestrian movements in automobile-oriented shopping districts tended to be contained within specific shopping complexes.
Trickle irrigation rates and soil salinity distribution in an almond (Prunus amygdalus) orchard

Abstract Managing the soluble salts in the root zone of a trickle irrigated almond (Prunus amygdalus) orchard is desirable for tree growth and nut production. This study was conducted to determine the relationships among the volume (50, 100, and 150% of the crop evapotranspiration ( et c) of trickleapplied water and the amount and distribution of soil salinity, Cl−, B, and soluble Na+ in a clay loam soil. Irrigation water with an electrical conductivity of 1.5 dS m−1 was applied for four years. The greatest accumulation of soil salinity (electrical conductivity of the saturation soil extract, ec e) of 5.7 dS m−1 was beneath the trickle line for the 50% of et c treatment (14.0 m3 of applied water tree−1 yr−1). Soil salinity decreased with distance from the trickle line. Increasing the water volume to 100 and 150% of et c (26.9 and 40.3 m3 tree−1 yr−1, respectively) moves the zone of salt accumulation farther from the trickle line. The apparent leaching fraction based upon the Cl− ratio for the 50% of et c treatment was about 0.05 indicating loss of water by deep percolation within about 1 m of the trickle line. For trees irrigated at 100% of et c, the leaching fraction was 0.22 up to a distance of 1 m from the line, then decreased to 0.06 at a distance of 1.6 m. The leaching fraction for the 150% of et c treatment was from 0.36 within 1 m of the trickle line and then decreased to about 0.34 at 1.6 m from the line. Reasons for the leaching fraction being higher than expected are discussed. Further research is required to optimize the management of trickle irrigation to meet the et c and leaching requirements in young almond orchards irrigated with slightly saline water.
Hemipalmitoylcarnitinium, a strong competitive inhibitor of purified hepatic carnitine palmitoyltransferase.

Abstract We have synthesized (2S,6R:2R,6S)-6-carboxymethyl-2-hydroxy-2-pentadecyl-4,4-dimethylmorpholinium bromide (hemipalmitoylcarnitinium, HPC), which is a conformationally restricted analog inhibitor of carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT; EC 2.3.1.21). rac-HPC inhibits catalytic activity in purified rat liver CPT. In the forward reaction, HPC competes with both (R)-carnitine (Ki(app) = 5.1 ± 0.7 μM) and palmitoyl-CoA (Ki(app = 21.5 ± 4.9 μM). In the reverse reaction, inhibition by HPC is competitive with palmitoyl-(R)-carnitine (Ki(app = 1.6 ± 0.6 μM), but inhibition is uncompetitive with CoA. The forward reaction is also competitively inhibited by its product, palmitoyl-(R)-carnitine, Ki(app)'s 14.2 ± 2.1 μ m relative to (R)-carnitine and 8.7 ± 2.6 μ m relative to palmitoyl-CoA. rac-HPC is the most potent synthetic reversible inhibitor of purified CPT. HPC fails to inhibit carnitine acetyltransferase (CAT; EC 2.3.1.7). Palmitoylcholine also inhibits CPT in the forward reaction, competing with (R)-carnitine (Ki(app = 18.6 ± 4.5 μM) and with palmitoyl CoA (Ki(app = 10.4 ± 2.5 μM). Choline is not an effective CPT inhibitor. We have shown [R. D. Gandour et al. (1986) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun.138, 735–741] that hemiacetylcarnitinium inhibits CAT but not CPT. The combined data demonstrate further differences between the carnitine recognition sites in CPT and CAT.
On Eye Movements and Animal Magnetism: A Reply to Greenwald's Defense of EMDR

In his commentary on my article comparing Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with animal magnetism therapy (McNally, 1999a), Greenwald (this issue) expresses several criticisms. Unable to refute a single factual statement, he resorts to attacking my rhetorical style. The purpose of this reply is to rebut his critique.
On self-consistent estimators and kernel density estimators with doubly censored data

Abstract We study the detailed structure (in a large sample) of the self-consistent estimators of the survival functions with doubly censored data. We also introduce the kernel-type density estimators based on the self-consistent estimators, and using our results on the structure of the self-consistent estimators, we establish the strong uniform consistency and the asymptotic normality of the kernel density estimators for doubly censored data. From these, the strong uniform consistency and the asymptotic normality of the failure rate estimators for doubly censored data are derived.
Evidence for the existence of the gondwana ice sheet in the 18O depletion of carbonate rocks in the permian formations of the transantarctic mountains

Abstract New measurements of 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios of calcite lenses in the Permian formations of the Beacon Supergroup in the Queen Alexandra and Queen Elizabeth Ranges of the Transantarctic Mountains confirm the results of a previous study and indicate that the calcite lenses are probably of diagenetic origin. The δ 18 O-values of the calcites range from −30.1 to −15.5% (PDB) whereas δ 13 C-values range from −23.1 to + 2.6‰ (PDB). The depletion in 18 O requires that the calcite precipitated from meteoric water which was also strongly depleted in 18 O, such as glacial meltwater of the Gondwana ice sheet. The depletion in 13 C indicates that the carbon in the calcite is partly of biogenic origin. These results therefore suggest that in late Carboniferous to early Permian time the MacKellar Basin in the Queen Alexandra and Queen Elizabeth Ranges received discharge of glacial meltwater from the Gondwana ice sheet and that vegetation was growing on the land surrounding the basin and within the water.
The Diurnal Variation of Thunderstorm Activity in the United States

Abstract Starting times of thunderstorms for 450 stations in the conterminuos United States for a 25-year period were analyzed using harmonic analysis techniques. Diurnal variations were expressed as both the time of maximum storm occurrence and the concentration of activity around this time. Distinct seasonal and spatial variations in diurnal activity occur. Analysis of these variations indicates that the country can be divided into nine thunderstorm regions. In the central states the majority of storms occur at night, but storms are frequent at any time. In both the east and the west there is a marked concentration of storms in the afternoon. In the west and northeast winter storms are rare, while along the Pacific Coast summer thunder is uncommon.
Study of factors impacting remote diagnosis performance on a PLC based automated system

Abstract In this paper, we present systematically experimental and analytical evaluations on design of remote fault diagnosis systems for a programmable logic controller (PLC) based automated system. In order to investigate the factors of remote architecture, operator's skill level, and fault's effect on diagnosis performance, comprehensive experimental evaluations, statistical analysis and survey were conducted. The experiment compared three levels of remote architectures, two levels of operators’ skill levels on four typical faults in an automated system. Performance evaluation including detection time, amount of information search, number of diagnostic tests, number of asked questions, number of system runs, and performance score, were extracted from the experiment record. Two-stage statistical analysis including (1) analysis of variance (ANOVA) and (2) least significant difference (LSD) paired comparison was conducted on the performance evaluation data. From the statistical analysis results and expert survey, we concluded that: (1) the architecture sophistication eased the diagnosis on the faults that are related to the measurement signals, and (2) the diagnosis performance also increased with the sophistication of the architecture, but (3) operator's skill level did not significantly affect the diagnosis performance. The survey results on troubleshooters’ opinions and preferences about the diagnosis were also summarized, which can be applied for improvement on design of remote diagnosis system. The proposed evaluation approach is systematic; it can be applied on design and evaluation of diagnostics systems on other PLC based automated systems such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), robotics assembly.
Post-translational proteolytic processing of procollagen C-terminal proteinase enhancer releases a metalloproteinase inhibitor.

Activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) is regulated by a family of proteins called tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP). Four TIMPs have been cloned, and their molecular weights range from 29,000 to 20,000. By reverse zymography, we have observed a metalloproteinase inhibitor with an apparent molecular weight of 16,500 from medium conditioned by human brain tumor cells. Antibodies directed against TIMPs failed to react with the 16,500 molecular weight inhibitor, indicating that it was not a truncated form of a known TIMP. The inhibitor was isolated from conditioned medium using affinity and ion exchange chromatography. N-terminal sequences of the inhibitor matched amino acid sequences within the C-terminal domain of a protein known as procollagen C-terminal proteinase enhancer (PCPE). Thus, the inhibitor was named CT-PCPE. Comparison of the N-terminal domain of TIMP with CT-PCPE revealed that both contained six cysteine residues. As in the case of TIMP, reduction and alkylation abolished the inhibitory activity of CT-PCPE. Purified CT-PCPE inhibited MMP-2 with an IC50 value much greater than that of TIMP-2. This implies that MMPs may not be the physiologic targets for CT-PCPE inhibition. However, these results suggest that CT-PCPE may constitute a new class of metalloproteinase inhibitor.
Luminosity monitor using the coherent beam-beam interaction

At the Cornell Electron/Positron Storage Ring, a fast luminosity monitor has been implemented. The monitor works by measuring the amplitude of oscillation of selected bunches while the corresponding opposing bunches are shaken. Signal-to-noise ratios of better than 100:1 have been obtained with 1 sec averaging times. A software normalization program ameliorates the unwanted dependence of the signal upon certain vertical lattice parameters such as the vertical tune.
A Survey and Analysis of Important Visual Tasks in Offices

Although more office tasks need to be measured, the following visibility data make it possible to key lighting design more meaningfully to a particular office situation.
Cardiovascular research: a look into tomorrow.

Knowledge is proud that he has learned so much; Wisdom is humble that he knows no more. William Cowper, 1731–1800 The second half of the last century was a period of tremendous excitement and accomplishment in the fight against cardiovascular diseases. Looking back, one can point to three major events that provided the foundation for this era of great progress in medical as well as surgical approaches to these diseases. One of those events was the introduction of cardiac catheterization into clinical medicine by Andre Cournand and Dickerson Richards in the late 1940s. Its importance was appropriately noted by Liljestrand in his Nobel prize presentation speech in 1956: “Professors Cournand, Forssmann, and Richards: the Karolinska Institute has decided to award this year’s Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine to you jointly for your discoveries concerning cardiac catheterization and pathologic changes in the circulatory system… . Together, they signify the initiation and development of a new and important approach to our understanding of heart disease.” Indeed, as we reflect on our accumulated knowledge of the pathophysiology of heart disease, we must recognize that much of it is the result of the ever-wider use of cardiac catheterization. The second memorable event of the last century was the introduction of open heart surgery. A myriad of pioneers in many countries contributed to the surgical wonders that we, today, consider ordinary, but the surgeons who took the first steps must be recognized—John Lewis, for the first open heart surgery using hypothermia in 1952, and John Gibben, for the first open heart surgery using a heart-lung machine 1 year later. These two great medical advances would probably not have flourished as quickly, or even possibly as well, if a third truly defining event had not occurred—the creation of the National Heart Institute by the United …
Bilateral effects of spinal overhemisections on the development of the somatosensory system in rats.

Connections of the forepaw regions of somatosensory cortex (S1) were determined in rats reared to maturity after spinal cord overhemisections at cervical level C3 on postnatal day 3. Overhemisections cut all ascending and descending pathways and intervening gray on one side of the spinal cord and the pathways of the dorsal funiculus contralaterally. Bilateral lesions of the dorsal columns reduced the size of the brainstem nuclei by 41%, and the ventroposterior lateral subnucleus (VPL) of the thalamus by 20%. Bilateral lesions also prevented the emergence of the normal cytochrome oxidase barrel pattern in forepaw and hindpaw regions of S1. Injections of wheat germ agglutinin conjugated to horseradish peroxidase were placed in the forepaw region of granular S1 and surrounding dysgranular S1 contralateral to the hemisection. The VPL nucleus was densely labeled, whereas the adjoining ventroposterior medial subnucleus, VPM, representing the head, was unlabeled. Thus, there was no evidence of abnormal connections of VPM to forepaw cortex. Foci of transported label in the ipsilateral hemisphere appeared to be in normal locations and of normal extents, but connections in the opposite hemisphere were broadly and nearly uniformly distributed in sensorimotor cortex in a pattern similar to that in postnatal rats. Rats with incomplete lesions that spared the dorsal column pathway on the left side but not the right demonstrated surprisingly normal distributions of callosal connections in the nondeprived right hemisphere, even though the injected left hemisphere was deprived. Thus, the development of the normal pattern of callosal connections depends on dorsal column input and not on normal interhemsipheric interactions. J. Comp. Neurol. 475:604–619, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Effective Treatment With Oxcarbazepine in Paroxysmal Kinesigenic Choreoathetosis

Paroxysmal kinesigenic choreoathetosis is often responsive to anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine and phenytoin. We report a boy with paroxysmal kinesigenic choreoathetosis, which is dramatically relieved by oxcarbazepine even after unsatisfactory treatment with carbamazepine and other medications.
Survival of Chlorella and Chlamydomonas after acute and chronic gamma radiation

Abstract The relation between DNA content per cell and radiosensitivity of Chlorella and Chlamydomonas was studied. Cultures were exposed to chronic gamma radiation for 3 days at dose rates ranging from 0 to 75 kr/20-hr day or to 0–4 min of acute gamma radiation (8 kr/min). On the basis of DNA content per cell, Chlorella (0·066 pg) was expected to be more radioresistant than Chlamydomonas (0·12 pg). This expectation was fulfilled for acute exposures, but not for chronic. Survival curves for acute exposures show that Chlorella has an LD 90 of 23 kr compared with 10 kr for Chlamydomonas . After chronic irradiation survival was reduced to 1 per cent by about 15 kr (5 kr/day) for Chlorella and 171 kr (57 kr/day) for Chlamydomonas . Various aspects of the results are discussed.
Grip sensing in smart toys: a formative design method for user categorization

Modern toys are interactive, motivate play, and can be used to aid detection and analysis of play behavior. Our research has investigated the use of wireless sensors embedded in toys to aid in the automatic detection and analysis of children's playtime activities. In order to guide age appropriate interaction style and facilitate data collection (adult vs. child), we need to identify who is playing with the toy. This becomes especially challenging when these smart toys are deployed into everyday play areas. In this paper we describe a formative design methodology to inform the creation of a smart toy that could allow differentiation between a child and adult. We also describe an evaluation of our prototype design from a pilot study that shows promise for future research.
Spectrophotometric determination of bromate ions using phenothiazines

Abstract A highly sensitive spectrophotometric method for the determination of bromate ion is described. The method is based on the reduction of aqueous bromate ion by a phenothiazine in acidic conditions to produce a colored species. The method is suitable for bromate ion determination in the 1–700 μg/l range. For the most sensitive reagent, trifluoperazine, the limit of detection and limit of quantitation were calculated to be 0.67 and 2.25 μg/l, respectively.
Induction of astrocyte metallothioneins (MTs) by zinc confers resistance against the acute cytotoxic effects of methylmercury on cell swelling, Na+ uptake, and K+ release

Abstract Metallothionein (MT) proteins play an important role in the detoxification of heavy metals. Since methylmercury (MeHg) preferentially accumulates in astrocytes, we investigated the ability of the astrocyte-specific MT isoform, MT-I, to attenuate MeHg-induced cytotoxicity. Increased astrocytic MT expression was achieved by 24-h pretreatment of neonatal rat primary astrocyte cultures with 100 μM zinc (ZnSO4). Subsequently, the astrocytes were treated with MeHg (10 μM), and its toxic effects on cell volume, Na+ uptake, and K+ release were investigated and compared to cells treated with or without MeHg, but in the absence of Zn pretreatment. Pretreatment of astrocytes with Zn was associated with a 2.9-fold increase in MT protein levels (P
The Intergenerational Transmission of Disciplinary Practices and Approaches to Conflict

The investigation of the intergenerational transfer of family violence has been largely limited to studies conducted in the United States, and has been plagued with methodological shortcomings. This study provides data on disciplinary practices and the intergenerational transfer of approaches to conflict from a non-western culture, the Zapotec of Oaxaca, Mexico. It deals with methodological concerns such as definitional ambiguities, inaccuracy of informant recall, and over-reliance on attitudinal and self-report measures. Furthermore, it discusses the relevance of the findings for reducing aggressive behavior within families and society. Three methods are employed to gather data relevant to the intergenerational transmission hypothesis: structured interviews, ethnographic observations and ethological observations. A comparison of two neighboring Zapotec communities shows one to be markedly more aggressive than the other in terms of fighting, wife beatings, assaults, and homicides. The levels of aggression...
Chemical flocculability of sludge organisms in response to growth conditions

The effect of waste characteristics on the removal of suspended solids and soluble phosphorus by alum, Al2(SO4)3·18H2O, was investigated in an activated sludge system with no cellular recycle. Under the conditions presently studied, it was found that sludge organisms grown in nitrogen- and phosphorus-restricted media possess exceptionally large capsules and produce a higher surface electric charge per unit of fry weight. Chemical demand for separation of these capsulated cells is obviously higher than those solids cultivated under a well-balanced nutrient condition. For phosphorus removal, the molar ratio of Al+3:P is a function of the initial concentrations of soluble phosphorus and suspended solids in solution. The relationship between percent phosphorus removal and the quantity of chemical coagulent used shows nonstoichiometric relationship; that is, the required molar ratio of Al+3:P is always greater than one and directly depends upon the content of suspended solids in the flocculated media. Moreover, the present study indicated that chemical separation of dispersed microorganisms occurred following phosphorus removal.
House dust hypersensitivity in perennial asthma of childhood

Abstract By means of intracutaneous tests and passive transfers it has been determined that approximately 79 per cent of children between the ages of one and twelve years who suffer from perennial asthma are skin sensitive to house dust extract and have reagins to this atopen in their serums. The frequency and severity of this sensitivity as evidenced by the magnitude of the skin test and passive transfer reaction increase with the advancing years of childhood.
Unusual mitochondria in the hepatocytes of rats treated with a vitamin B12 analogue.

Adult male rats were administered hydroxy-cobalamin (c-lactam) (HCCL), a vitamin B12 analogue, by means of osmotic mini-pumps. The metabolic effects of HCCL, are similar to those produced by simple dietary deficiency of vitamin B12 (Frenkel et al., 1976), but the morphological alterations in hepatic mitochondria are quite different in the two treatments. In HCCL-treated animals, hepatic mitochondria showed significant increases in number. In one rat, the hepatic mitochondria frequently had a single, elongated, circumferentially-oriented crista, with the inner compartment being occupied by a greatly augmented matrix. Such organelles appeared to be capable of division, as indicated by medially-partitioned forms. Numerous hooded mitochondria were present in the hepatic cells of the same animal. Almost every mitochondrion of whatever morphology was partially or completely shrouded by a cistern of rough endoplasmic reticulum. These mitochondrial morphological changes may be related to the chronic metabolic changes in this animal model of methylmalonic aciduria.
International media coverage of North Korea: study of journalists and news reports on the six-party nuclear talks

This study examines what factors influence journalists’ perceived importance of different attributes of North Korea. In particular, this study analyzes the degree to which journalists’ perceived credibility of their sources influences their perceptions of different attributes of North Korea, even after controlling for individual, organizational, and social-system factors. To examine these issues, this study conducts a survey of South Korean and Western journalists who covered North Korea and a content analysis of media reports on North Korea. The results show that the influence of factors at different levels can vary depending on the issues or aspects of issues that journalists deal with. In the case of North Korea issues, sources at the institutional level had significant influence on journalists’ perceived importance of the rogue state dimension of North Korea. In comparison, journalists’ nationality at the social-system level best predicted journalists’ perceived importance of the dialogue partner dime...
Preparation of trans‐octaethylchlorin‐D2(α,β),‐D2(γ,δ), and ‐d4 as well as octaethylporphyrin‐d2 using acid‐catalyzed exchange reaction

Preparation of three forms of selectively deuterated trans-octaethylchlorin (t-OEC) and octaethylporphyrin-d2 (OEP-d2) with high isotopic purity using acid catalyzed hydrogen-deuterium exchange reaction is described. Deuterated t-OEC labeled at γ,δ-methine carbons was prepared directly by equilibrating t-OEC in D2SO4:D2O (6:1, v/v) at room temperature for 20 hours. t-OEC labeled at all four methine carbons was prepared as above in 72 hours. And t-OEC labeled at α,β-positions was obtained by “back-exchange” of t-OEC-d4 under the protio condition, H2SO4:H2O (6:1, v/v), in 18 hours. The DDQ dehydrogenation of either dideuterochlorin species resulted in the formation of OEP-d2. The isotopic purities of all deuterated compounds were over 98 percent except for t-OEC-d2(α,β) which was estimated to be ∼ 90 percent by proton NMR spectroscopy.
Temperature profiles in plane poiseuille flow with electrical heat generation

Abstract Temperature profiles are calculated for laminar flow in a slit with electrical heat generation. The elliptic form of the thermal energy equation is sol which has an isothermal lower surface and an adiabatic upper surface. Our results show that a thermal inversion appears in the entrance region of the d and the modified device may be scaled 0(10) times in the transverse thickness.