cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In Vivo 3-T MR Spectroscopy in the Distinction of Recurrent Glioma versus Radiation Effects: Initial Experience

PURPOSE: To determine if 3-T magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy allows accurate distinction of recurrent tumor from radiation effects in patients with gliomas of grade II or higher. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This blinded prospective study included 14 patients who underwent in vivo 3-T MR spectroscopy prior to stereotactic biopsy. All patients received a previous diagnosis of glioma (grade II or higher) and high-dose radiation therapy (>54 Gy). Prior to MR spectroscopy, conventional MR imaging was performed at 1.5 T to identify a gadolinium-enhanced region within the irradiated volume. Diagnosis was assigned by means of histopathologic analysis of the biopsy samples. RESULTS: Sixteen of 17 biopsy locations could be classified as predominantly tumor or predominantly radiation effect on the basis of the ratio of choline at the biopsy site to normal creatine level by using a value greater than 1.3 as the criterion for tumor. The remaining case, classified as recurrent tumor on the basis of MR spectroscopy resu...
Bonding patterns in a strong 3c2e C-H...C hydrogen bond.

Analysis of the topology of the electron density and underlying local orbital interactions of the fully optimized structure of the molecular cage of the in-bicyclo[4.4.4]-1-tetradecyl cation reveals that the inside 3c2e C-H...C hydrogen bond is not only unusual but also strong. The inside C-H bond of the unsaturated, neutral precursor bicyclo[4.4.4]-1-tetradecene is involved in an intramolecular C-H/π interaction with the transannular double bond. Known and calculated 1 H and 1 3 C NMR properties, including diamagnetic and paramagnetic contributions to shielding tensors, are accounted for in terms of electron density redistributions and the unusual electronic environment within these hydrocarbon cages.
Relating fuel loads to overstorey structure and composition in a fire-excluded Sierra Nevada mixed conifer forest.

Although knowledge of surface fuel loads is critical for evaluating potential fire behaviour and effects, their inherent variability makes these difficult to quantify. Several studies relate fuel loads to vegetation type, topography and spectral imaging, but little work has been done examining relationships between forest overstorey variables and surface fuel characteristics on a small scale (<0.05 ha). Within-stand differences in structure and composition would be expected to influence fuel bed characteristics, and thus affect fire behaviour and effects. We used intensive tree and fuel measurements in a fire-excluded Sierra Nevada mixed conifer forest to assess relationships and build predictive models for loads of duff, litter and four size classes of downed woody fuels to overstorey structure and composition. Overstorey variables explained a significant but somewhat small percentage of variation in fuel load, with marginal R2 values for predictive models ranging from 0.16 to 0.29. Canopy cover was a relatively important predictor for all fuel components, although relationships varied with tree species. White fir abundance had a positive relationship with total fine woody fuel load. Greater pine abundance was associated with lower load of fine woody fuels and greater load of litter. Duff load was positively associated with total basal area and negatively associated with oak abundance. Knowledge of relationships contributing to within-stand variation in fuel loads can increase our understanding of fuel accumulation and improve our ability to anticipate fine-scale variability in fire behaviour and effects in heterogeneous mixed species stands.
Modeling california earthquakes and earth structures

Seismology has burgeoned into a modern science—force-fed by federal funding to advance technology for detecting underground nuclear explosions and predicting earthquakes, and by industry to improve tools for gas and oil exploration. Computers, seismic instrument systems, telemetry, and data reduction have played key roles in this growth.
Imbalanced Sex Ratios The Social Consequences

Imbalanced population sex ratios dramatically influence gender roles, shape relationships between them, and produce changes in family structures. This report briefly sketches these findings and, by means of social exchange theory, spells out the linkage between this demographic condition and its social consequences.
Antioxidant activity of aqueous and vitreous humor from the inflamed rabbit eye.

The effects of aqueous and vitreous humors and plasma on the rate of auto-oxidation of a rabbit brain homogenate were measured. Both aqueous and vitreous humors from normal eyes increased, while pl...
Polynucleotide circular dichroism calculations: use of an all-order classical coupled oscillator polarizability theory.

An all-order classical coupled oscillator theory in which monomer band shapes are explicity taken into account is applied to the calculations of polynucleotide circular dichroism. Calculations are shown for ApA and oligoadenylic acid of varying chain lengths, in both RNA and B-DNA geometry, and the advantages of this theory are assessed. By introducing an effective dielectric constant, good agreement with measured spectra is obtained. Variations in monomer parameters are tested in an attempt to eliminate remaining discrepancies between calculated and measured spectra.
The effect of long-term intake of cis unsaturated fats on the risk for gallstone disease in men: a prospective cohort study.

Background Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats act as inhibitors of cholesterol cholelithiasis in animal experiments. Objective To examine the association between long-term intake of cis unsaturated fats and the incidence of gallstone disease in humans. Design Prospective population-based cohort study. Setting The Health Professional Follow-up Study. Participants 45,756 men, age 40 to 75 years in 1986, who were free of gallstone disease. Measurements Consumption of cis unsaturated fats was assessed starting in 1986 as part of the 131-item semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaires. Questionnaires were mailed to participants every 2 years. The main outcome measure was self-reported newly diagnosed symptomatic gallstone disease. Results During 14 years of follow-up, 2323 new cases of gallstone disease were documented. After adjustment for age and other potential risk factors, the relative risk for gallstone disease among men in the highest quintile of dietary intake of cis unsaturated fats compared with men in the lowest quintile was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.69 to 0.96; P for trend = 0.006). The relative risk among men in the highest quintile of polyunsaturated fat consumption compared with men in the lowest quintile was 0.84 (CI, 0.73 to 0.96; P for trend = 0.01), and the relative risk among men in the highest quintile of monounsaturated fat consumption compared with men in the lowest quintile was 0.83 (CI, 0.70 to 1.00; P for trend = 0.01). Limitations Outcomes were restricted to men with cholecystectomy or diagnostically confirmed but unremoved symptomatic gallstones. Conclusions A high intake of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats in the context of an energy-balanced diet is associated with a reduced risk for gallstone disease in men. For definitions of terms used in the text, see Glossary.
A Comment on Early Student Blunders on Computer-Based Adaptive Tests

This article refutes a recent claim that computer-based tests produce biased scores for very proficient test takers who make mistakes on one or two initial items and that the ‘‘bias’’ can be reduced by using a four-parameter IRT model. Because the same effect occurs with pattern scores on nonadaptive tests, the effect results from IRT scoring, not from adaptive testing. Because very proficient test takers rarely err on items of middle difficulty, the so-called bias is one of selective data analysis. Furthermore, the apparently large score penalty for one error on an otherwise perfect response pattern is shown to result from the relative stretching of the IRT scale at very high and very low proficiencies. The recommended use of a four-parameter IRT model is shown to have drawbacks.
Observations on the histopathology of a systemic ciliate (Paranophrys sp.?) disease in the Dungeness crab, Cancer magister

Abstract Infections of the hemolymph of crabs by ciliates have been known for almost a century. Originally placed in the genus Anophrys , these crab-parasitizing ciliates have been recently transferred to the genus Paranophrys . Infections were long thought to be confined to the hemolymph in living crabs, with death caused by consumption of all hemocytes. Histological examination of heavily infected, but living, Dungeness crabs demonstrate that the ciliates actively invade and probably consume many tissues of the host prior to death rather than saprophytically feeding on the decomposing tissues subsequent to death as previously reported.
Lower bounds for the low hierarchy

The low hierarchy in NP [Sc-83] and the extended low hierarchy [BBS-86] have been useful in characterizing the complexity of certain interesting classes of sets. However, until now, there has been no way of judging whether or not a given lowness result is the best possible.
Connection forces in deformable multibody dynamics

In the dynamic formulation of holonomic and nonholonomic systems based on D'Alembert-Lagrange equation, the forces of constraints are maintained in the dynamic equations by introducing auxiliary variables, called Lagrange multipliers. This approach introduces a set of generalized reaction forces associated with the system generalized coordinates. Different sets of variables can be used as generalized coordinates and accordingly, the generalized reactions associated with these generalized coordinates may not be the actual reaction forces at the joints. In rigid body dynamics, the generalized reaction forces and the actual reaction forces at the joints represent equipollent systems of forces since they produce the same total forces and moments at and about any point on the rigid body. This is not, however, the case in deformable body analyses wherein the generalized reaction forces depend on the system generalized reference and elastic coordinates. In this paper, a method for determining the actual reaction forces at the joints from the generalized reaction forces in deformable multibody systems is presented.
Wind tunnel wake measurements of heavier-than-air gas dispersion near a two-dimensional obstacle

The dispersion of a uniform two-dimensional flow of carbon dioxide gas in air over a square two-dimensional obstacle was studied experimentally in an atmospheric boundary-layer wind tunnel. The obstacle Reynolds number was about 6000 based upon the undisturbed velocity at the height of the obstacle, and the Froude number was about 1.75. Carbon dioxide was injected vertically upward from the surface at a rate of 10% of the freestream velocity. The injection surface area began one obstacle length upstream and extended upstream one and one-half obstacle lengths. A gas concentration measurement system for carbon dioxide and air mixtures was developed for use in an atmospheric wind tunnel. Centerline steady-state concentration profiles were measured for various locations downstream of the leading edge of the obstacle. The maximum concentrations of carbon dioxide occurred atop the obstacle in the thin recirculation zone above the obstacle. Immediately behind the obstacle within the larger downstream recirculation zone, concentration levels significantly decreased. Further downstream, the concentration levels continued to diminish.
Generation of monocyte-derived dendritic cells from precursors in rhesus macaque blood

Abstract While the dendritic cells (DCs) of mouse and man have been extensively studied, until recently those of non-human primates remained poorly characterized. We present a method for generating large numbers of DCs from precursors in rhesus macaque blood, based on techniques developed for human blood. For 7 days, a T cell-depleted population of mononuclear cells was cultured in 1% human plasma with GM-CSF and IL-4, both to initiate DC differentiation and to inhibit macrophage development. On day 7, 50% of the culture medium was replaced with a monocyte-conditioned medium (MCM), which is required for the final maturation of the DCs into potent stimulators of the allogeneic MLR. Between 0.5 and 1.0×10 6 DCs can be generated from 20 ml of rhesus macaque blood. We compared these cytokine-generated DCs to the adherent macrophages present in the same cultures. Cytokine-generated DCs were considerably more potent at stimulating allogeneic T cells than adherent macrophages. Furthermore, the DCs had a distinct morphology and phenotype, with long processes, high levels of p55, and a characteristic perinuclear collection of intracellular CD68. In contrast, adherent macrophages expressed very low levels of p55, and high diffuse levels of CD68. Macaque DCs generated by this method may be useful in vaccine development, and for studies of SIV pathogenesis.
Management of the Obstetric Patient With Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis in obstetric patients presents a challenging nursing problem to facilities caring for populations at high risk: the economically disadvantaged, minorities, the foreign-born, and patients with human immunodeficiency virus. Coordination of public health, outpatient, and inpatient services is essential for obtaining the desired outcome of a healthy family unit with a minimum of interruption of the attachment process. This article presents issues related to nursing care and medical management of tuberculosis in the perinatal period.
Effect of adrenalectomy and demedullation on the stress-induced impairment of long-term potentiation.

Inthese three experiments, we investigated the effect of adrenalectomy and adrenal demedullation on the stress-induced impairment of long-term potentiation (LTP) in the rat hippocampal slice. In the first, adrenalectomy alone resulted in a significant reduction in LTP, while exposure to stress resulted in a further reduction. In the second, replacing corticosterone in adrenalectomized rats did not restore LTP. In the last experiment, demedullation resulted in a reduction in LTP similar to that induced by adrenalectomy, while exposure to stress did not result in a further reduction. In combination, these studies provide evidence that the adrenal medullary system modulates hippocampal plasticity and the stress-induced impairment of LTP.
The Cloacal Gland—an External Indicator of Testicular Development in Coturnix

Abstract The quantitative relationship between cloacal gland size and testes weight during the stages of initial growth, involution and recrudescence is described. Cloacal gland foam was found to be a reliable indicator of testes size and function. The mean testes weight associated with the first presence of cloacal gland foam was 377 mg. and this occurred at a mean age of 29 days. The physical measurement of the cloacal gland provides a valuable noninvasive method of predicting testicular activity especially suited for long term experiments involving multiple measurements where a few coturnix may be used repeatedly (as their own control) rather than periodic killing of a large group of animals.
Windowing functions for SAR data with spectral gaps

Synthetic Aperture Radar systems are being driven to provide images with ever-finer resolutions. This, of course, requires ever-wider bandwidths to support these resolutions in a number of frequency bands across the microwave (and lower) spectrum. The problem is that the spectrum is already quite crowded with a multitude of users, and a multitude of uses. For a radar system, this manifests itself as a number of 'stay-out' zones in the spectrum mandated by regulatory agencies; frequencies where the radar is not allowed to transmit. Even frequencies where the radar is allowed to transmit might be corrupted by interference from other legitimate (and/or illegitimate) users, rendering these frequencies useless to the radar system. In a SAR image, these spectral holes (by whatever source) degrade images, most notably by increasing objectionable sidelobe levels, most evident in the neighborhood of bright point-like objects. For contiguous spectrums, sidelobes in SAR images are controlled by employing window functions. However, those windows that work well for contiguous spectrums don't seem to work well for spectrums with significant gaps or holes. In this paper we address the question "Can some sorts of window functions be developed and employed to advantage when the spectrum is not contiguous, but contains significant holes or gaps?" A window function that minimizes sidelobe energy can be constructed based on prolate spheroidal wave functions. This approach is extended to accommodate spectral notches or holes, although the guaranteed minimum sidelobe energy can be quite high in this case.
High Dead Volume Pumps: Delay Time Reduction by Short-Term Low-Ratio Split Flow in LC/MS Applications

The aim of our work was to develop a low-cost, simple and reliable solution to reduce LC/MS analysis time by compensating for limitations inherent to high dead volume standard HPLC pumps. In our approach, we utilized a temporary (sub-1 min) low ratio flow split (∼1:10) at 5 mL/min pump flow before the column. During this short period, 90% of the entire pump flow is delivered to waste and used for fast pump/system equilibration. Although full-time flow splitting is widely used in capillary/nano applications (usually with high split ratios in the hundreds or thousands), to our knowledge, this is the first time that short-term low-ratio flow splitting has been used in conventional LC/MS applications.
Central Diabetes Insipidus after Staged Spinal Surgery

Diabetes insipidus (DI) is described following penetrating spinal cord trauma but rarely following instrumented spinal fusion. More commonly, hyponatremia is seen following spine surgery, which may be iatrogenic, attributed to the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone release. The authors present a case of a 57-year-old woman who underwent a planned two-stage operation for scoliotic deformity correction. On the third postoperative day, the patient developed hypernatremia (sodium levels of 157 mmol/L) and polyuria. In conjunction with endocrinology, the patient was diagnosed with central DI. The patient was treated with desmopressin acetate (DDAVP), which led to resolution of her symptoms. DDAVP was temporary and eventually weaned off. Central DI is a possible cause of hypernatremia following significant spine surgery. Correct diagnosis is paramount for rapid and appropriate treatment.
Ragweed allergen Ra3: relationship to some type 1 copper-binding proteins

We have found ragweed allergen Ra3 to be related to the type 1 copper proteins; it is most closely related to stellacyanin and basic blue protein. The type 1 copper proteins form a diverse group of proteins, most of which are involved in electron transport. However, key amino acids believed to be involved in copper binding are absent from the allergen sequence; thus, the allergen is not likely to be functionally related to the type 1 copper proteins. We have grouped these proteins into one superfamily and we depict the relationships among them by an evolutionary tree. As indicated by this tree, an ancient gene duplication resulted in the divergence of plastocyanin from the line leading to basic blue protein, stellacyanin, and allergen Ra3.
Energetics and Mechanism of Alkylamine N−H Bond Cleavage by Palladium Hydroxides: N−H Activation by Unusual Acid−Base Chemistry

The dimeric palladium hydroxide complex [(PPh3)(Ph)Pd(μ-OH)]2 underwent proton exchange reactions to cleave the N−H bonds of both alkyl and aryl primary amines to generate dimeric palladium amido complexes. This acid−base chemistry was reversible and provided thermodynamic information on the relative bond energies of the bridging amido and bridging hydroxo ligands. The mechanism of the N−H activation reaction was studied in both the forward and reverse directions to gain a detailed picture of the reaction pathway. Our data indicate that the reaction proceeds via cleavage of the hydroxide dimer by association of 2 equiv of amine followed by reversible proton transfer to create the amido ligand and a bound water ligand. Reassociation of the amido monomer with one of the original hydroxide monomers with displacement of water and amine gives the final amido hydroxo dimer product. Microscopic reversibility leads to the prediction that the reaction of water with the amido complexes is first order in product ami...
SU‐GG‐I‐51: Hybrid Computational Phantoms of the Developing Human Fetus

Purpose: Anthropomorphic computational phantoms are a useful tool for assessing ionizing radiationdosesdelivered through medical imaging,radiation therapy, and nuclear medicine procedures. The majority of computational phantom construction efforts have been directed towards pediatric and adult populations, with comparatively little treatment given to the developing fetus. Fetal radiosensitivity combined with growing concerns regarding medical radiationdoses suggests a need for computational phantoms that provide adequate representation of fetal anatomy. This work introduces a new set of fetal computational phantoms to be used for use radiationdosimetry purposes. Method and Materials: High‐resolution MR and CTimages of two preserved fetal specimens (13.5 and 23 weeks) were utilized to construct computational phantoms of the developing fetus. 4.7 T MR images of the younger fetus and clinical 1.5 T MR and CTimages of the older fetus were acquired. Images were segmented using 3D‐Doctor™ and exported to Rhinoceros™ where non‐uniform rational B‐spline (NURBS) surfaces were used to offset minor imaging and segmentation artifacts in the skeleton. Published fetal biometry data were used for age verification and as design criteria for volumetrically adjusting the phantoms to different gestational ages. Results: The thorough representation of the internal fetal anatomy comprising these phantoms is on par with currently available pediatric and adult computational phantoms. Conclusion: High‐resolution MR and CTimages of two preserved fetuses, in conjunction with established segmentation and modeling techniques, have produced two computational phantoms that provide improved representation of the fetal internal anatomy compared to those currently available. In the future, completed fetal phantoms may be combined with an adult female phantom to provide a powerful tool with which to simulate in utero internal and external medical radiation exposures.
Factors controlling the hydrodynamic detachment of particles from surfaces

Abstract The detachment of colloidal particles (5 to 40 μm) from surfaces has been studied. The influence of several variables such as flow rate, particle size, particle elasticity, ionic strength, pH, and gravity has been considered. Experiments were conducted to measure the critical hydrodynamic force required to detach particles from a flat glass substrate. It was demonstrated by conducting centrifuge experiments that the mechanism of detachment is rolling rather than sliding or lifting. The influence of particle size and elasticity as well as the surface chemical interactions between the particle and the substrate was included in a model that adequately explains the observed behavior. A consistent method is presented to compute the deformation of the particle and the adhesion and lift forces acting on it at equilibrium. These quantities allow us to compute the critical hydrodynamic force required for particle release. A comparison of the computed and experimentally measured forces shows good agreement, indicating that the essential physics of the problem has been captured in the model.
Malignant lymphomas in a population at risk for acquired immune deficiency syndrome

Certain neoplasia are closely associated with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). To evaluate this relationship the authors reviewed the occurrence of lymphomas in populations at high risk for AIDS; the study population included prisoners from New York State and nonprisoner intravenous drug abusers (IVDA). Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was diagnosed in 16 prisoners, all of whom were IVDA, and four nonprisoner IVDA. The observed number of prisoners with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (11) diagnosed between January 1, 1981 and December 12, 1984, significantly greater than the expected number (2.28) based on age adjusted incidence rates for the US population (P less than 0.001). The calculated average incidence rate for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma among New York State prisoners aged 20 to 49 years was 21.5/10(5) to 67.2/10(5), which was nearly sixfold to 18-fold higher than the general population. For prisoner IVDA, specifically, this incidence may be as high as 164/10(5), which represents a 40-fold increase in the relative risk compared with the general population. It is concluded that, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is frequently a manifestation of AIDS among IVDA, and is the most common malignancy seen in IVDA with AIDS.
Comparison of superoxide dismutase, thiopental, and nimodipine for maintenance of somatosensory evoked responses during aortic cross-clamping and declamping in dogs

Abstract Paraplegia is a potential complication of aortic cross-clamping. The occurrence of this devastating sequels has caused increased interest in the use of somatosensory evoked responses ISER) to monitor spinal cord ischemia during aortic cross-clamping. This study was designed to examine changes in SERs during clamping and declamping of the canine aorta after injection of superoxide dismutase (SOD), thiopental (T), and nimodipine (N). In the control group, cross-clamping the aorta produced an increase in latency and a decrease in amplitude of the SER starting at two minutes. Isoelectric SERs were obtained after 16 minutes of aortic cross-clamping, but recovered with cross-clamp removal. When the aorta was clamped for more than 16 minutes in the control group, the isoelectric SERs obtained were irreversible. After the injection of SOD and T, SER latencies and amplitudes changed to a smaller degree with aortic cross-clamping and did not become isoelectric even after 20 minutes of clamping. During aortic cross-clamp removal in the control group, SERs initially improved and then showed signs of reperfusion ischemia, which disappeared after eight minutes. There were no significant SER changes due to reperfusion when SOD or T or the combination was given prior to aortic cross-clamping. There was no difference in SER changes from the control group during aortic cross-clamping and after release of cross-clamping when N was given. Nimodipine did not alter SER changes from aortic cross-clamping alone. In summary, SOD and T, alone or in combination, protect the spinal cord against ischemia during aortic cross-clamping and declamping.
A COURSE MODEL FOR TEACHING CONCEPTS RELATED TO THE SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF QUANTITATIVE ANALYSES

This paper examines a course model for teaching the concepts of successful implementation of quantitative analyses to both administrative and technical students. The objectives of the course were to examine the principles of effective model building and to examine the problems in communication between administrative and technical individuals. The course model utilizes case study discussions in conjunction with a series of applications projects. The cases illustrated a wide variety of implementation concepts, including concepts related to problem definition, analysis planning, information needs, systems modeling, and general model building philosophies. The applications projects gave the students varied experiences in realistic problem solving. A subjective evaluation of the student's progress in the course did show an increased perceptiveness of what constitutes good model building. The quantitative students in the course seemed to improve in their ability to develop practical solutions to problem solving, while the administrative students improved their ability to communicate with technical individuals and to perform evaluations of technical proposals for quantitative analyses.
Areal Distribution and Geophysical Significance of Heat Generation in the Idaho Batholith and Adjacent Intrusions in Eastern Oregon and Western Montana

Gamma-ray spectrometry has been used to measure potassium (K), uranium (U), thorium (Th), heat generation ( A ), Th/U, and ( A – Ak )/K ( Ak = heat from potassium) for over 600 samples in the Idaho batholith. Values of heat generation are remarkably consistent within a given pluton, but vary markedly and predictably between plutons of different composition and(or) different levels of emplacement. Values of ( A – Ak )/K are similar for suites of rocks that were emplaced at approximately the same depth during the same intrusive event, but are considerably different between suites belonging to different intrusive events emplaced at different depths. Thus, on the basis of their ( A – Ak )/K ratio and various geologic parameters, the rocks of the Idaho batholith can be divided into four intrusive groups. Table 1 lists these groups with their characteristics, weighted according to areal abundances of the constituent plutons. The remarkable uniformity of heat generation for a given igneous unit, even over large geographical areas, and the uniformity of ( A – Ak )/K. for rocks intruded during the same intrusive event suggest that these parameters are diagnostic properties of igneous rocks, and may be used by the geologist to map individual units, to correlate different rock types intruded during the same intrusive event, and to separate similar rock types intruded during different intrusive events.
Influence of puberty and antral follicle count on calving day in crossbred beef heifers.

Lifetime productivity and longevity are greater in beef cows that give birth early in their first calving season. The ability of heifers to conceive early in the breeding season is traditionally thought to be a function of pubertal status; however, recent evidence suggests that antral follicle count is positively associated with calving day in pubertal beef heifers. Additionally, there is evidence to suggest that the total number of ovarian follicles may alter response to hormonal synchronization protocols. The objectives of this study were to confirm the beneficial influence of antral follicle count on calving day in beef heifers and to determine whether response to PGF2α is associated with differences in antral follicle counts. A 2 × 2 factorial experiment was designed to investigate the interaction between calving period (early vs. late) and PGF2α (control vs. PGF) on calving day and antral follicle count in yearling beef heifers (n = 95). As intended, calving day was less in the early calving period compared to the late calving period (P 0.05). There was a significant interaction between calving period and PGF2α on age at first calving (P < 0.01), such that heifers treated with PGF2α that gave birth early were younger than heifers treated with saline that gave birth early. Calf weaning weights were greater in the early calving group than in the late calving group (P < 0.01). Heifers that gave birth in the early calving group possessed more antral follicles at prebreeding ultrasonographic examination than heifers that gave birth in the late calving group (P = 0.05). These findings confirm that antral follicle counts are associated with calving day in pubertal beef heifers. The use of antral follicle counts as a prebreeding phenotype provides additional utility to reproductive tract scoring for commercial production because of its association with calving day. As a prebreeding ovarian phenotype, antral follicle counts may hold additional applicability for organic beef producers looking to reduce the length of their calving season without increasing the total number of replacement heifers retained.
Benthic Collector and Grazer Communities Are Threatened by Hemlock Woolly Adelgid-Induced Eastern Hemlock Loss

Eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis (L.) is a foundation species in eastern North America where it is under threat from the highly invasive, exotic hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae). Eastern hemlock is especially important in riparian areas of Central and Southern Appalachia, so we compared the spatial and temporal composition of benthic collector-gatherers, collector-filterers, and grazers in headwater streams with hemlock-dominated riparian vegetation to those with deciduous tree-dominated riparian vegetation to evaluate the extent to which adelgid-induced hemlock loss could influence composition and abundance of these two functional feeding groups. We found differences in benthic invertebrate abundance and family-level diversity based on riparian vegetation and sampling approach, and, often, riparian vegetation significantly interacted with location or season. Collector-gatherers and grazers were more abundant in eastern hemlock streams in the summer, when hemlock litter is readily available and deciduous litter is relatively sparse. Riparian eastern hemlock appears to exert considerable influence on benthic invertebrate functional feeding group composition in headwater stream communities, as expected with a foundation species. With the loss of eastern hemlock due to adelgid-induced mortality, we should expect to see alterations in spatial and temporal patterns of benthic invertebrate abundance and diversity, with potential consequences to both benthic and terrestrial ecosystem function.
Pupillary Light Reflex: Development of Teaching Models

During the past 15 years, many models have been developed for the pupillary light reflex system. Some of these models have been inadequately described while others have never been tested to determine their compliance or noncompliance with known experimental data. This paper reviews the major experimental and modeling advances that assisted in understanding the basic operation of the pupillary light reflex system.
Autosomal monoallelic expression in the mouse

Background: Random monoallelic expression defines an unusual class of genes displaying random choice for expression between the maternal and paternal alleles. Once established, the allele-specific expression pattern is stably maintained and mitotically inherited. Examples of random monoallelic genes include those found on the Xchromosome and a subset of autosomal genes, which have been most extensively studied in humans. Here, we report a genome-wide analysis of random monoallelic expression in the mouse. We used high density mouse genome polymorphism mapping arrays to assess allele-specific expression in clonal cell lines derived from heterozygous mouse strains. Results: Over 1,300 autosomal genes were assessed for allele-specific expression, and greater than 10% of them showed random monoallelic expression. When comparing mouse and human, the number of autosomal orthologs demonstrating random monoallelic expression in both organisms was greater than would be expected by chance. Random monoallelic expression on the mouse autosomes is broadly similar to that in human cells: it is widespread throughout the genome, lacks chromosome-wide coordination, and varies between cell types. However, for some mouse genes, there appears to be skewing, in some ways resembling skewed X-inactivation, wherein one allele is more frequently active. Conclusions: These data suggest that autosomal random monoallelic expression was present at least as far back as the last common ancestor of rodents and primates. Random monoallelic expression can lead to phenotypic variation beyond the phenotypic variation dictated by genotypic variation. Thus, it is important to take into account random monoallelic expression when examining genotype-phenotype correlation.
Effects of buoyancy and rotation on the polarity reversal frequency of gravitationally driven numerical dynamos

SUMMARY We present the results of 50 simulations of the geodynamo using a gravitational dynamo model driven by compositional convection in an electrically conducting 3-D fluid shell. By varying the relative strengths of buoyancy and rotation these simulations span a range of dynamo behaviour from strongly dipolar, non-reversing to multipolar and frequently reversing. The polarity reversal frequency is increased with increasing Rayleigh number and Ekman number. Model behaviour also varies in terms of dipolarity, variability of the dipole, and core–mantle boundary field spectra. A transition region is found where the models have dipolar fields and moderate (Earth-like) reversal frequencies of approximately 4 per Myr. Dynamo scaling laws are used to compare model dipole intensities to the geodynamo. If the geodynamo lies in a similar transition region then secular evolution of the buoyancy flux in the outer core due to the growth of the inner core and the decrease in the Earth’s rotation rate due to tidal dissipation can account for some of the secular changes in the reversal frequency and other geomagnetic field properties over the past 100 Myr.
Multiple sclerosis: Empirical literature for the clinical health psychologist

This article reviews the empirical literature related to clinical health psychology in multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a disease in which the immune system attacks the central nervous system. As such, the interactions between medical and psychological variables are complex, and potentially of considerable importance to patients. Common neuropsychological and psychological problems associated with MS and their etiologies are reviewed. The effects of stress and depression on MS exacerbation are discussed, including clinical, immune, endocrine, and neuroimaging findings. The types of coping common in MS and their effects on adjustment are discussed. The empirical literature on psychological and neuropsychological intervention is reviewed. The small literature on caregiving in MS is also summarized. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Psychol 57: 479–499, 2001
Nonlinear optical processing

It is well known that coherently illuminated optical processing systems are very useful for performing such linear operations as convolution, cross-correlation and Fourier spectral analysis because the Fourier transform of an optical signal exists physically and can, therefore, be measured and modified [1]. With properly synthesized composite grating filters and binary filters, the mathematical operations of addition, subtraction, differentiation, integration and generalized orthogonal transformations can easily be carried out [2-4]. To increase the computing capability and flexibility of optical processors, digital electronic computers are incorporated to form hybrid processors [5-10]. If nonlinear operations can be implemented easily, optical processing will be even more useful. Several schemes are presently available to perform nonlinear processing without employing nonlinear devices. These include the theta modulation technique [11], the half—tone process [12], the holographic approach [13] and the method utilizing active or amplifying elements [14]. This paper discusses, however, only optical processing involving real-time nonlinear devices, with and without feedback [2, 15], together with the current research activities at UCSD on nonlinear processing.
Identity, sexuality and commercial sex among Sri Lankan nachchi.

This study investigates the complex and contradictory ways in which gender identity, sexuality, and desire are configured in nachchi understandings of their lives in Sri Lanka. Nachchi was an insider term used by a group of sex workers best conceptualized using western understandings as both transgender and homosexual: nachchi celebrate their feminine gendered subjectivity, but also embrace key facets of their biological ‘maleness,’ and are ardent in their sexual desire for men. We examine the relationships between nachchi gender and sexual subjectivities, including how they compare and distinguish themselves from women and men. Particularly in the context of transactional sexual exchanges, we investigate the intersections of economics, desire, stigma and exploitation in shaping nachchi experiences.
Definition of alien H-2 determinants on a Friend leukaemia by analysis of alloreactivity of CTL from primary MLC.

SUMMARY A Friend virus-induced tumour of BALB/c (H-2d) origin, HFL/d, was examined for the expression of alien H-2 antigens. The alloantigens on HFL/d were typed by generating CTL in primary MLC with HFL/d as stimulator and measuring reactivity to targets with known H-2 antigens, and confirmed by assessing recognition of HFL/d targets by CTL generated in primary MLC with stimulators expressing known H-2 antigens. Potential cross-reactivities between alloantigens were analysed by cold-target inhibition experiments. BALB/c cells stimulated with HFL/d lysed H-2b targets, and BALB/c anti-H-2b CTL lysed HFL/d; analysis with recombinant haplotypes demonstrated both H-2Kb and H-2Db alien antigens on HFL/d. C57BL/6 (H-2b) cells stimulated with HFL/d recognized H-2Kd, H-2Dd, and an additional determinant unique to HFL/d. (BALB/c x B6)F1 cells also recognised a unique HFL/d determinant not of H-2b or H-2d origin. These unique determinants, which induced a strong cytotoxic response in primary MLC, were not shared by BALB/c or B6 tumours induced by cross-reactive FMR viruses. Thus, HFL/d expressed the K and D antigens of its strain of origin, two typed alien H-2 antigens, and at least one other untyped antigen which may represent an additional H-2 determinant. These studies further demonstrate the utility of examining the reactivity of CTL generated in primary MLC to probe for the presence of alien H-2 antigens.
Forced reconnection in the near magnetotail: Onset and energy conversion in PIC and MHD simulations

Using two-dimensional particle-in-cell (PIC) together with magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Q1 simulations of magnetotail dynamics, we investigate the evolution toward onset of reconnection and the subsequent energy transfer and conversion. In either case, reconnection onset is preceded by a driven phase, during which magnetic flux is added to the tail at the high-latitude boundaries, followed by a relaxation phase, during which the configuration continues to respond to the driving. The boundary deformation leads to the formation of thin embedded current sheets, which are bifurcated in the near tail, converging to a single sheet farther out in the MHD simulations. The thin current sheets in the PIC simulation are carried by electrons and are associated with a strong perpendicular electrostatic field, which may provide a connection to parallel potentials and auroral arcs and an ionospheric signal even prior to the onset of reconnection. The PIC simulation very well satisfies integral entropy conservation (intrinsic to ideal MHD) during this phase, supporting ideal ballooning stability. Eventually, the current intensification leads to the onset of reconnection, the formation and ejection of a plasmoid, and a collapse of the inner tail. The earthward flow shows the characteristics of a dipolarization front: enhancement of Bz, associated with a thin vertical electron current sheet in the PIC simulation. Both MHD and PIC simulations show a dominance of energy conversion from incoming Poynting flux to outgoing enthalpy flux, resulting in heating of the inner tail. Localized Joule dissipation plays only a minor role.
A fine-grain clock synchronization mechanism for Myrinet clusters

Clock synchronization is a fundamental requirement for any real-time distributed system operating with global schedules. The presence of a global clock permits co-scheduling, enhances the degree of synchronization between cooperating tasks of parallel programs, and permits implementation of quality of service (QoS) based communication. This paper describes the design and implementation of a high accuracy (/spl plusmn/5/spl mu/s) global clock on a Myrinet network of PC with low software overhead. The clock synchronization scheme uses a novel approach to reduce errors arising from variation of latency of transmitted clock values. The contribution of this work is that high-accuracy of clock synchronization is obtained without significant resource consumption. This makes the synchronization scheme equally suitable for high-performance and real-time distributed systems. The new approach achieves clock accuracy of the order of /spl plusmn/5/spl mu/s, compared to the other known clock synchronization algorithm on Myrinet that achieves accuracy of the order of milliseconds. Programmability of the Myrinet interface card and the presence of an on-board real time clock are critical to achieving this accuracy.
"The shard-borne [-born] beetle," Macbeth, 3.2.42-43

(2005). 'The shard-borne [-born] beetle,' Macbeth, 3.2.42-43. ANQ: A Quarterly Journal of Short Articles, Notes and Reviews: Vol. 18, No. 4, pp. 33-36.
Mercury content of blood transfusions for infants with extremely low birth weight.

OBJECTIVES: To assess whether blood transfusions for infants with birth weights of 1000 g or less are a source of mercury and whether any mercury delivered through the transfusion is above the currently set oral reference dose. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We studied an observational cohort. Inclusion criteria included birth weight 1000 g or less and receipt of 1 or more packed red blood cell transfusions. Packed red blood cell units were tested prospectively for mercury levels. The quantity of transfused mercury was calculated on the basis of transfused volume and packed red blood cell mercury level. The resulting mercury level was compared with the reference dose as set by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, the World Health Organization, and the US Environmental Protection Agency. RESULTS: Thirty-seven infants (birth weight: 736 ± 157 g; gestational age: 25.5 ± 1.5 weeks) met the inclusion criteria. A total of 325 transfusions from 49 packed red blood cell units were administered. Mercury was detected in 40 units. The average mercury level in a packed red blood cell unit was 1.9 ± 2.6 μg/L (median: 0.9 μg/L [interquartile range: 0.3–2.5]). None of the infants received any mercury above the reference dose set by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and the World Health Organization. Twelve infants received 1 transfusion, and 5 infants received 2 transfusions above the Environmental Protection Agency reference dose during their entire hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS: Packed red blood cells are a source of mercury for infants. However, the amount delivered is low compared with currently set safety levels. The episodes in which mercury intake exceeded the reference dose were rare. However, without long-term follow-up, no conclusions can be made about the cognitive implications of these episodes.
Risk Factors for Child Sexual Abuse

A number of surveys have by now provided information about the relative risk of persons from various backgrounds to experience sexual abuse during childhood. Interestingly, they are fairly uniform in failing to find differences in rates according to social class or race. However, several other factors have emerged from community studies as being consistently associated with higher risk for abuse: (a) when a child lives without one of the biological parents; (b) when the mother is unavailable to the child either as a result of employment outside the home or disability and illness; (c) when the child reports that the parents' marriage is unhappy or conflictual; (d) when the child reports having a poor relationship with the parents or being subject to extremely punitive discipline or child abuse; (e) when the child reports having a stepfather. The article draws some implications from these findings and makes recommendations for ways to improve subsequent studies of risk factors.