cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MOLECULAR SYSTEMATICS AND BIOGEOGRAPHY OF THE COCKATOOS (PSITTACIFORMES: CACATUIDAE)

We sequenced a 433-bp region of the mitochondrial 12S ribosomal subunit gene for 15 of the 18 recognized species of cockatoos and also examined previously pub- lished data on allozymes. Tests showed that the allozyme and mtDNA data have similar phylogenetic signals. The mtDNA phylogeny placed the Palm Cockatoo (Probosciger aterri- mus) as the first extant cockatoo to split, followed by a subclade containing the black-cock- atoos (Calyptorhynchus spp.), the Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus), and the Gang-gang Cock- atoo (Callocephalon fimbriatum); followed by the Galah (Eolophus roseicapillus) and Major Mitchell's Cockatoo (Cacatua leadbeateri), respectively; and finally followed by two subclades of "white" cockatoos: (1) the "corella" clade (Red-vented Cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia), Goffin's Cockatoo (C. goffini), Little Corella (C. sanguinea), Ducorps's Cockatoo (C. ducorpsii)); and (2) the "galerita" clade (Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (C. galerita), Salmon-crested Cocka- too (C. moluccensis), White Cockatoo (C. alba), Blue-eyed Cockatoo (C. ophthalmica), and Less- er Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (C. sulphureal). If the mtDNA phylogeny accurately represents the evolutionary history of the cockatoos, then several of the phylogenetic problems within the group are resolved, including the positions and relationships of Nymphicus hollandicus, Callocephalonfimbriatum, Eolophus roseicapillus, and Cacatua leadbeateri. The mtDNA phylogeny supports some but not all of the nomenclature recently proposed for the Australian species. Biogeographic analysis of the mtDNA phylogeny supports the hypothesis that the cockatoos originated in Australia and that a combination of vicariant speciation and dispersal may have contributed to the diversification of the genus Cacatua in two separate radiations to the
A note on spherical summation multipliers

We give a new proof of a theorem of L. Carleson and P. Sjolin onL p -boundedness of spherical summation operators in two variables.
A cost of alarm pheromone production in cotton aphids, Aphis gossypii

The sesquiterpene, (E)-β-farnesene, is used by many aphid species as an alarm pheromone to warn related individuals of predation. Disturbed cotton aphids, Aphis gossypii Glover, released (E)-β-farnesene into the air as detected by solid phase microextraction and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Solvent extracts of cotton aphids of various life stages and weights also were analyzed by GC–MS for sums of ions 69 and 93, which discriminated (E)-β-farnesene from coeluting compounds. Aphids of all life stages and sizes reared on cotton plants in both an environmental chamber and glasshouse contained (E)-β-farnesene in amounts ranging from 0.1 to 1.5 ng per individual. The quantities of (E)-β-farnesene in aphids increased in relation to increasing body weight, and variation in individual weights explained about 82% of the variation in alarm pheromone. However, the concentrations (ng/mg fresh weight) declined exponentially with increasing body weight. These findings indicate that aphid nymphs try to compensate for their smaller size by producing relatively more pheromone per weight than adults but still cannot approach an evolutionary optimal load, as assumed in adults with the greatest total amounts. This suggests that young aphids need to balance costs of growth and maturation with costs of producing the alarm pheromone.
Intelligent agents for World Wide Web advertising decisions

We describe a new paradigm for the inclusion of advertisements on the WWW. This paradigm takes advantage of the internet's great ability for instantaneous online processing of information in real time. A methodology is described for the use of intelligent agents to help in the determination of the appropriateness of displaying a given advertisement to a visitor to a site using very specific information about potential customers. Use is made of fuzzy systems modeling for the construction of these agents.
Role of polarization functions in cation binding. H3NLi+ and H2OLi+

Abstract Interactions between a Li + cation and the bases NH 3 and OH 2 are studied by ab initio molecular orbital methods. Basis sets range in size from 6-31G* to 6-311 + G** and include also double-valence types containing two sets of polarization functions. Interactions energies computed with the singly polarized (SP) sets are too high, due in large part to overestimates of the dipole moments of the bases. Both of these errors are greatly reduced when d functions are added to first-now atoms (DP). The contributions of electron correlation to the interactions are included via Moller-Plesset theory to second and third orders. Whereas the SP basis sets lead incorrectly to attractive contributions of correlation, this component is positive with the DP sets which, moreover, involve substantially smaller basis set superposition errors at both the SCF and correlated levels. The second set of d functions is responsible also for correct behavior of both the second- and third-order components of correlation. Lithium cation and proton affinities calculated with the DP basis set are in excellent accord with values measured experimentally.
A Three-Dimensional Balance Theory for Rapidly Rotating Vortices

Abstract A three-dimensional balance formulation for rapidly rotating vortices, such as hurricanes, is presented. The asymmetric balance (AB) theory represents a new mathematical framework for studying the slow evolution of rapidly rotating fluid systems. The AB theory is valid for large Rossby number; it makes no formal restriction on the magnitude of the divergence or vertical advection, which need not be small. The AB is an ordered expansion in the square of the ratio of orbital to inertial frequencies, the square of a local Rossby number. The approximation filters gravity and inertial waves from the system. Advantage is taken of the weak asymmetries near the vortex care as well as the tendency for low azimuthal wavenumber asymmetries to dominate. Linearization about a symmetric balanced vortex allows the three-dimensional asymmetric dynamics to be deduced properly. The AB formulation has a geopotential tendency equation with a three-dimensional elliptic operator. The AB system has a uniformly valid co...
The "Goldilocks Zone" from a redox perspective - Adaptive vs. deleterious responses to oxidative stress in striated muscle

Consequences of oxidative stress may be beneficial or detrimental in physiological systems. An organ system's position on the “hormetic curve” is governed by the source and temporality of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, proximity of ROS to moieties most susceptible to damage, and the capacity of the endogenous cellular ROS scavenging mechanisms. Most importantly, the resilience of the tissue (the capacity to recover from damage) is a decisive factor, and this is reflected in the disparate response to ROS in cardiac and skeletal muscle. In myocytes, a high oxidative capacity invariably results in a significant ROS burden which in homeostasis, is rapidly neutralized by the robust antioxidant network. The up-regulation of key pathways in the antioxidant network is a central component of the hormetic response to ROS. Despite such adaptations, persistent oxidative stress over an extended time-frame (e.g., months to years) inevitably leads to cumulative damages, maladaptation and ultimately the pathogenesis of chronic diseases. Indeed, persistent oxidative stress in heart and skeletal muscle has been repeatedly demonstrated to have causal roles in the etiology of heart disease and insulin resistance, respectively. Deciphering the mechanisms that underlie the divergence between adaptive and maladaptive responses to oxidative stress remains an active area of research for basic scientists and clinicians alike, as this would undoubtedly lead to novel therapeutic approaches. Here, we provide an overview of major types of ROS in striated muscle and the divergent adaptations that occur in response to them. Emphasis is placed on highlighting newly uncovered areas of research on this topic, with particular focus on the mitochondria, and the diverging roles that ROS play in muscle health (e.g., exercise or preconditioning) and disease (e.g., cardiomyopathy, ischemia, metabolic syndrome).
Re-visiting the tectonics of the oceanic intraplate earthquake of March 25, 1998 (M 8.1) in the Balleny sea, offshore Antarctica

Abstract The Antarctic plate earthquake of March 25, 1998, M 8.1, and its aftershocks, are re-visited, to evaluate the role of the associated tectonics in stress concentration due to ambient horizontal crustal motion caused by deglaciation in Antarctica. Using a numerical technique called the “Distinct Element Method”, a two-dimensional, structural model of the epicentral region is developed, and tectonically loaded for a year along the inferred direction of the motion. A spatial correlation is observed between the resulting locations of relatively high shear stresses, and those of the main shock and associated aftershocks. In particular, seismicity is concentrated at and near the intersections of the main fault, Carey and Gambier fracture zones, where the shear stresses are significantly elevated, and whose sign duplicate the inferred sense of movement along them. The modeling results suggest that stress concentrations near pre-existing, intersecting fault and fracture zones, due to a possible deglaciation induced horizontal crustal force, may have been a cause of this enigmatic earthquake.
Healing of Periodontal Flaps Following Use of MBR 4197 (Flucrylate) in Rhesus Monkeys: A Clinical and Histological Evaluation*

Experimental periodontal surgery was performed on six adult Rhesus monkeys, using the modified Widman flap technique. Each monkey provided four or six segments for flap surgery, and three different experimental time intervals were used. Flaps were immobilized after surgery by conventional sutures or by application of MBR 4197 cyanoacrylate spray. Each animal provided its own contralateral comparison, and the mode of flap immobilization was reversed in the corresponding segments in the other animal of each experimental group. One monkey died approximately 12 hours after surgery, and the other animals were sacrificed at 14, 35 and 180 days. Histological sections were prepared from all operated areas, and examined for the pattern of healing. A special staining technique was used to determine the presence of MBR 4197 within the tissues.
Compensatory saccades made to remembered targets following orbital displacement by electrically stimulating the dorsomedial frontal cortex or frontal eye fields of primates

If the eye-position signal during visually-evoked saccades is dependent on the dorsomedial frontal cortex (DMFC), one would expect that saccades generated to briefly presented visual targets would be disrupted after displacement of the eyes via electrical stimulation of this cortical area. Compared are compensatory saccades evoked to brief targets following stimulation of the DMFC and frontal eye fields (FEF). Compensatory saccades produced to brief targets following perturbation via the DMFC were not affected. Accordingly, electrical stimulation of the DMFC does not disrupt the eye-position signal during the execution of visually-evoked saccades.
On the Contrast between the Seasonal Cycles of the Equatorial Atlantic and Pacific Oceans

Abstract Although the winds on the equator at 28°W in the Atlantic and 140°W in the Pacific have similar seasonal variations, the current fluctuations have pronounced differences. In the Pacific the maximum speed of the Equatorial Undercurrent, attained in the northern spring, can exceed 140 cm s−1, while the minimum speed, in the autumn, is less than 80 cm s−1. In the Atlantic the maximum speed of 80 cm s−1 hardly varies seasonally, although it tends to be largest in the autumn. Analyses of results from a realistic simulation of the equatorial currents indicate that the larger zonal extent of the Pacific, and the seasonal variations of the winds over the western Pacific, which can be out of phase with those in the east, are the principal reasons for the differences between the Atlantic and Pacific.
Determination of radioruthenium using a polyethylene film

A simple method is described for the determination of radioruthenium. A solution containing radioruthenium is placed in a conical flask with small amounts of sulfuric acid, silver nitrate, and potassium periodate. The mouth of the flask is covered with a thin polyethylene film, which is fixed with a soft rubber band, and the flask is heated for 2 hrs on a water bath. Radioruthenium is oxidized to tetroxide, evaporated by steam-distillation, and fixed quantitatively on the inner surface of the polyethylene film as a firm black stain. Contamination ratios of other nuclides are under 2·10−4.
Determination of bromine in flame-retardant plastics using pulsed glow discharge mass spectrometry.

A series of bromine-containing flame-retardant plastics was used to demonstrate the applicability of pulsed radio frequency glow discharge mass spectrometry to the determination of elements in commercial polymers. The direct analysis of bulk samples produced both atomic and molecular species, allowing elemental identification and molecular characterization. However, the low ion signal intensities hindered quantification. Atomization mechanisms for the plastic samples were studied in detail using scanning electron microscopy and mass spectrometry. Although some thermal desorption was observed, sputter atomization dominated when samples were not subjected to excessive discharge power. The sputter rates of various polymers, as evidenced by sputter weight loss measurements, showed a strong correlation with their ion production capabilities. Sputtering rates were related to the physical and chemical properties inherent to a polymer's composition. Analysis of samples compacted with a silver binder provided inte...
Identification Issues in Forward-Looking Models Estimated by GMM, with an Application to the Phillips Curve

Limited-information methods are commonly used to estimate forward-looking models with rational expectations, such as the \New Keynesian Phillips Curve" of Gal¶‡ and Gertler (1999). In this paper, we address issues of identiflcation that have been overlooked due to the incompleteness of the single-equation formulation. We show that problems of weak instruments may arise, depending on the properties of the ‘exogenous’ variables, and that they are empirically relevant. We also uncover a link between identiflcation and dynamic mis-speciflcation, and examine the (lack of) power of Hansen’s (1982) J test to detect invalid over-identifying restrictions. With regards to the New Phillips curve, we flnd that problems of identiflcation cannot be ruled out, and they deserve further attention.
More on the Uneasy Case for Using Mill-Type Methods in Small-N Comparative Studies

Selon l'A. les methodes de l'accord et de la difference de John Stuart Mill sont perimees et inappropriees pour les analyses comparatives ou historiques basees sur un petit nombre de cas. Il affirme leur incapacite a employer une perspective probabiliste, a traiter les erreurs de mesure, a utiliser une analyse multivariee ou a prendre en compte les effets d'interaction. Il porte un jugement critique sur la contribution de J. Savolainen et s'appuie sur l'appreciation de J. S. Mill lui meme quant a la portee de l'application de sa methode
Computing the positive solutions of the discrete third-order three-point right focal boundary-value problems

The existence of positive solutions to the discrete third-order three-point boundary-value problems (BVPs) was recently established in Ji and Yang [Positive solutions of discrete third-order three-point right focal boundary value problems, J. Differ. Equat. Appl. 15 (2009), pp. 185–195]. In this paper, we propose an algorithm for the computation of such positive solutions. The method is based on the power method for the dominant eigenvalue and the Crout-like factorization algorithm for the sparse system of linear equations. At each iteration of the method, it calls for a linear solver with linear computational complexity. The proposed method is extremely effective for large-scale problems. A numerical example is also included to demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithm when applied to the third-order three-point BVPs of differential equation.
Mechanisms of spontaneous cytosolic Ca2+ transients in differentiated human neuronal cells

We have studied Ca2+ homeostasis in a unique model of human neurons, the NT2N cell, which differentiates from a human teratocarcinoma cell line, NTera2/C1.D1 by retinoic acid treatment. When perifused with Krebs-HEPES buffer containing 2.5 mM CaCl2, fura-2 loaded NT2N cells produced spontaneous cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations, or Ca2+ transients. These cytosolic Ca2+ transients were not blocked by antagonists of glutamate (6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione and D(-)-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid) or muscarinic (atropine) receptors. Omission of extracellular Ca2+ completely abolished Ca2+ oscillations and decreased the average Ca2+ level from 106 +/- 14 nM to 59 +/- 8 nM. Addition of the L-type Ca2+ channel blocker nifedipine (1 or 10 microM) or of the N-type inhibitor omega-conotoxin GVIA (5 microM) significantly, although incompletely, suppressed Ca2+ oscillations, while omega-conotoxin MVIIC (5 microM), a selective antagonist of P- and Q-channels, had no effect. Ni2+, at 100 microM, a concentration selective for T-type channels, did not inhibit Ca2+ transients. Non-specific blockage of Ca2+ channels by higher concentrations of Ni2+ (2-5 mM) or Co2+ (1 mM) abolished Ca2+ oscillations completely. The endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor, thapsigargin (1 microM), slightly decreased Ca2+ oscillation frequency, and induced a small transitory increase in the average cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. The mRNAs of L- (alpha1D subunit) and N-type (alpha1B subunit) Ca2+ channel were present in NT2N cells, while that of a T-type Ca2+ channel (alpha1-subunit) was not present in the NT2N cells as shown by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. In conclusion, NT2N neuronal cells generate cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations mainly by influx of extracellular Ca2+ through multiple channels, which include L- and N-type channels, and do not require activation of glutamate or muscarinic receptors.
A spectroscopic/thermodynamic study of the rhodamine B lactone ⇌ zwitterion equilibrium

Abstract Temperature dependences of the visible absorption spectra of rhodamine B (RB) in water and 18 alcohol solvents have been examined and utilized to estimate thermodynamic parameters (Δ G °, Δ H °, Δ S °) for the RB lactone ⇌ zwitterion (L ⇌ Z) equilibria in these sol From the L ⇌ Z equilibrium in the strong hydrogen-bonding solvent trifluoroethanol an intrinsic RB zwitterion molar absorptivity of e = 1.30 × 1O 5 dm 3 /mol·cm is estimated. The thermodynamic results suggest that the position of the RB L ⇌ Z equilibrium is strongly influence by self-association of the solvent. The position of the equilibrium in aliphatic alcohols can be predicted from simple features of the solvent molecules. Consequences of the results regarding calculation of the natural radiative lifetime of the fluorescent state from the absorption spectrum are discussed.
Urinary profiles of organic acids and volatile metabolites during the starvation process in rats

Abstract Capillary gas chromatographic procedures were used to quantify the volatile and acidic compound profiles in the urinary samples of Sprague—Dawley rats during the starvation and refeeding periods. Numerous metabolites, identified through mass spectrometry, showed significant variations due to these physiological processes. Correlations are attempted with the previously studied biochemical processes in diabetic animals.
Use of Caloric Restriction to Investigate Neuroendocrine Involvement in Aging

NELSON and colleagues describe the use of the caloric restriction (CR) paradigm to study the possible roles that neuroendocrine changes may play in mammalian aging. Our comments concern two aspects of this brief review. First, the physiological severity of CR appears to vary widely and importantly among studies with an apparent tendency for greater severity in mouse than in rat studies. Second, the authors have been quite selective in the data they chose to discuss and, accordingly, we contend that it is useful to present a portion of that overlooked by the authors. Although -90% of the age-sensitive biologic mea
GONADOTROPIN RELEASING HORMONE ANALOGUE ANTIANDROGEN FAILURE SECONDARY TO A PITUITARY ADENOMA

Antiandrogen therapy before radiotherapy for definitive treatment of localized prostate adenocarcinoma has become an acceptable neoadjuvant treatment alternative. Huggins first discovered the relationship between androgen deprivation and regression of advanced prostate cancer.' The lack of androgen stimulation on prostatic carcinoma cells initiates the process leading to apoptosis. This process is thought to be synergistic with the effects of ionizing radiation.' Studies have clearly demonstrated that physiological doses of luteinizing hormone (LH)-releasing hormone (RH) analogues mimic LH-RH action, whereas, paradoxically, long-term administration of supraphysiological, pharmacological doses elicits antigonadal effects and regression of hormone dependent prostate tumors.:' We report on a man with prostate cancer whose testosterone did not decrease following treatment with an LH-RH analogue due to the concomitant presence of an asymptomatic functional pituitary adenoma.
Increasing Export Diversification in Commodity Exporting Countries: A Theoretical Analysis

Drawing on the neoclassical theory of international trade, this study investigates the limits of efficient diversification in low-income commodity exporting countries, and the fundamental importance of relative factor endowments for determining the commodity composition of international trade flows is demonstrated under both certain and uncertain economic conditions. In recognition of the importance of international financial markets for risk spreading and allocating resources efficiently under uncertainty, open economic policies toward international trade in financial assets as well as goods are emphasized.
The Career Development Facilitator Project: Then and Now

The National Career Development Association (NCDA) has consistently been involved in the professional training of individuals who provide career development services for youth and adults. It has provided outstanding leadership in the field of career development. NCDA's impact on the training of professionals and paraprofessionals working in the career development field is evident in its support of the Career Development Facilitator (CDF) project and delivery of CDF training. This article provides a history of the CDF project, its development and expansion from national to international use, current developments in the project, and its impact on the careers of those involved.
A Heuristic Approach to Generate Good-Quality Linked Data about Hydrography

Current Geographic Information is highly heterogeneous due to the diversity of producers and to their different needs. Geographical databases have different information structures, different levels of abstraction and scale, and are available in different natural languages. This is a major obstacle to overcome when generating good quality Linked Data from these databases. In this paper we describe how we generate Linked Data from heterogeneous hydrographical databases from various Spanish institutions. We provide a characterization of the types of heterogeneity found, based on existing semantic heterogeneity classifications, and describe a heuristic approach to deal with duplicity or co-reference problems.
A Decade of Digital Arts and Sciences at the University of Florida

The advent of cinematic special effects and console gaming since the late 1990s suggests an increasing and sustained emphasis on combining elements from the arts and computer science. The author presents a 10-year synopsis of a degree program created in 2000 to build an undergraduate curriculum using this emphasis as a catalyst. The degree program has resulted in steady student enrollment over the past decade as well as a significantly higher female student participation compared with the university's other three computer science degree programs. The article presents an overview of the program, qualitative and quantitative assessments, lessons learned and recommendations for continued improvement.
A Closer Look at Stable Value Funds Performance

There exists a paucity of academic literature on stable value (SV) funds, although a growing volume of industry and practitioner literature has provided an in-depth look at how the funds are managed and the guarantees secured. To date, no rigorous analysis has been published on the performance of stable value funds from the investor's point of view. In this study, we provide what we understand to be the first published analysis of the performance of stable value funds
Modeling of DFIG-Based Wind Farms for SSR Analysis

This paper conducts an analysis of subsynchronous resonance (SSR) phenomena in doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG)-based wind farms interconnected with series compensated networks. A dynamic model is developed to analyze the induction generator effect (IGE) and torsional interaction (TI) in such systems. A test system derived from the IEEE first benchmark model is considered for the analysis. The effect of two factors namely: 1) series compensation level and 2) wind speed on the IGE and TI are studied. In addition, impact of the inner current converter controller parameters and turbine parameters on SSR is also addressed. Small signal (eigenvalue) analysis is conducted to assess the damping of network and torsional modes followed by dynamic (time domain) simulations. The major contribution of this paper is the analytical investigation on SSR phenomena presented in DFIG-based wind farms interconnected with series compensated networks. The paper clearly demonstrates that IGE instead of TI is the major reason for SSR in such systems.
Isolation and characterization of the osmium(V) - Imido complex [OsV(Tp)(Cl)2(NH)]

Trapped by a proton: In the formation of OsII -N2 -OsII dimers, an OsV ≡N complex has been invoked as a transient intermediate but not isolated. Herein conditions are reported that allow OsV ≡N species to be trapped either in acidic, aqueous solutions as a neutral osmium(V) imido complex (OsV =NH, see structure) or in non-aqueous solvents, with high concentrations of added reductant, by N- ion transfer before coupling can occur.
Convergence of Personality and Interests: Meta-Analysis of the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire and the Strong Interest Inventory

Using meta-analysis, we revised Ackerman and Heggestad’s (1997) identification of four trait complexes that propose personality and interest (P-I) linkages. Studies that had reported correlations between general and specific measures of vocational interests (Strong Interest Inventory [Strong; Hansen & Campbell, 1985; Harmon, Hansen, Borgen, & Hammer, 1994]) and personality (Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire [MPQ: Tellegen, 1982, 2000; Tellegen & Waller, in press]) were located. These meta-analysis was based on 2,023 people from five databases including gifted adolescents, college students, and adult career clients. The substantive P-I correlations ranged from |.20| to |.49|—reflecting between 4% and 24% shared variance. Within the Science/Math complex, we found Harmavoidance to be negatively linked with Realistic and Science interests and Achievement to be positively linked with Investigative, Math, and Science interests. Within the Intellectual/Cultural complex, Absorption was related to general and specific Artistic interests. Within the Social complex, Social and Enterprising interests were differentiated based on the former being related positively to Wellbeing and negatively to Aggression and the latter being related positively to Social Potency. Sex was not found to be a substantial moderator of P-I correlations.
Gravitational Systems of Groundwater Flow: Theory, Evaluation, Utilization.: Jozsef Toth. Pp. 297. Cambridge University Press. New York. 2009. ISBN 9780521886383. Price: US $126.00.

In this era of ever-more-common and ever-more-sophisticated numerical models, this book by Jozsef Toth is a welcome reminder of the great amount one can learn about a groundwater flow system by simply examining a geologic cross section and applying fundamental concepts of gravitational groundwater flow. The importance of groundwater in geologic processes, including the formation of ore deposits, has become increasingly evident in recent years, creating a growing desire amongst earth scientists who lack formal hydrogeologic training to better understand regional-scale groundwater flow. The strength of the book is that it satisfies this need beautifully for those interested in gravitational flow systems, which typically dominate to depths of a few kilometers. The fact that this type of flow system is believed …
The Texas Teacher Test

The TECAT, the Texas Examination of Current Administrators and Teachers, is a test of basic literacy that was given to Texas teachers in March, 1986. The test, seen as politically essential to leverage a tax increase and pay raise for teachers, was intended to raise the public esteem of teachers by weeding out incompetents. Teachers expended massive effort in reviewing basic skills and drilling on test format. After two tries 99% of the 210,000 who took the test had passed. Shop teachers, special education-teachers, and coaches were overrepresented among the failures. The costs of district-sponsored workshops and the in-service day to take the test brought its public cost to a sum 10 tunes greater than policy makers had anticipated. Though most teachers agreed that literacy skills are prerequisite to good teaching, paradoxically, most also reported that being threatended by a low-level test of fundamental skills was demoralizing. Ironically, many think that the TECAT damaged public esteem for teachers bec...
Debranching of the arch in aortic aneurysms

We read with interest the surgical approach of Kondoh et al. [1] for the treatment of the distal arch aneurysm. They performed the elephant trunk procedure with undersized grafts instead of using the frozen elephant trunk technique with 10–20% oversized stent grafts. One month postoperative the residual ‘endoleak’ was 14% in Group 1, and 67% in Group 2. They performed an additional procedure in 77% of these patients. Although 92% of the patients were operated on electively, hospital mortality and cumulative mortality rates were 7.1 and 21.2%, respectively. They performed a two-staged elephant trunk technique in patients with the descending aortic diameter ≥35 mm. In more recent procedures, they started using endovascular techniques in the second stage. The technique of catching the graft with a snare (inserted by the endovascular technique) and pulling it inferiorly is a dangerous procedure that could easily cause a rupture of the fragile aorta, or distal embolism. When compared with the above technique, the frozen elephant trunk procedure or stent graft completion after the first elephant trunk open procedure appears to be safer. Landing a stent graft within the elephant Dacron segment either as a ‘frozen’ technique or at a later time is far more efficient and leads to fewer life-threatening complications [2]. While working at the level of the diseased arch or distal ascending aorta may be technically more demanding, suturing the four-branched arch graft to the sinotubular junction will compromise any future surgical interventions to the heart. In their technique, the distance between the coronary arteries and the arch branches is not sufficient for cross clamping of the aorta in reoperation. In the debranching procedure, suturing the branched graft 3–4 cm above the sinotubular junction will facilitate effective reoperation [3]. In conclusion, it is an interesting study. We thank the authors for sharing their experience. We think it is important to effectively obliterate the full aneurysm as early as possible, rather than wait for thrombosis to occur in a delayed fashion. The elephant trunk procedure combined with the endovascular technique is a safer alternative to the catheter pulling technique described by the authors.
Engineering salt tolerance in plants

Recent progress has been made in the identification andcharacterization of the mechanisms that allow plants to toleratehigh salt concentrations. The understanding of metabolic fluxesand the main constraints for the production of compatiblesolutes (i.e. feedback inhibition and the limitation of substratesupply) open up the possibility of genetically engineering entirepathways that could lead to the production of osmoprotectants.This, together with the identification of the different sodiumtransporters (in particular vacuolar and plasma membraneNa
Understory vegetation indicates historic fire regimes in ponderosa pine-dominated ecosystems in the Colorado Front Range

Question: Can current understory vegetation composition across an elevation gradient of Pinus ponderosa-dominated forests be used to identify areas that, prior to 20th century fire suppression, were characterized by different fire frequencies and severities (i.e., historic fire regimes)? Location: P. ponderosa-dominated forests in the montane zone of the northern Colorado Front Range, Boulder and Larimer Counties, Colorado, USA. Methods: Understory species composition and stand characteristics were sampled at 43 sites with previously determined fire histories. Indicator species analyses and indirect ordination were used to determine: (1) if stands within a particular historic fire regime had similar understory compositions, and (2) if understory vegetation was associated with the same environmental gradients that influence fire regime. Classification and regression tree analysis was used to ascertain which species could predict fire regimes. Results: Indicator species analysis identified 34 understory species as significant indicators of three distinct historic fire regimes along an elevation gradient from low- to high-elevation P. ponderosa forests. A predictive model derived from a classification tree identified five species as reliable predictors of fire regime. Conclusions: P. ponderosa-dominated forests shaped by three distinct historic fire regimes have significantly different floristic composition, and current understory compositions can be used as reliable indicators of historical differences in past fire frequency and severity. The feasibility demonstrated in the current study using current understory vegetation properties to detect different historic fire regimes, should be examined in other fire-prone forest ecosystems.
Retaining learned behavior during real-time neuroevolution

Creating software-controlled agents in videogames who can learn and adapt to player behavior is a difficult task. Using the real-time NeuroEvolution of Augmenting Topologies (rtNEAT) method for evolving increasingly complex artificial neural networks in real-time has been shown to be an effective way of achieving behaviors beyond simple scripted character behavior. In NERO, a videogame built to showcase the features of rtNEAT, agents are trained in various tasks, including shooting enemies, avoiding enemies, and navigating around obstacles. Training the neural networks to perform a series of distinct tasks can be problematic: the longer they train in a new task, the more likely it is that they will forget their skills. This paper investigates a technique for increasing the probability that a population will remember old skills as they learn new ones. By setting aside the most fit individuals at a time when a skill has been learned and then occasionally introducing their offspring into the population, the skill is retained. How large to make this milestone pool of individuals and how often to insert the offspring of the milestone pool into the general population is the primary focus of this paper.
Immersion Cinema: The Rationalization and Reenchantment of Cinematic Space:

The psychoanalytic accounts of cinema that dominate so-called apparatus theory describe spectatorship as a primarily voyeuristic, scopophilic activity. But recent changes in projection technology and theater architecture suggest that the physical and kinesthetic experience of the spectator, immersed in high-fidelity audiovisual technologies, is of paramount importance. This article charts the development of “immersion cinema,” critiques existing theories of the cinematic apparatus, and uses a spatial analysis influenced by the work of Henri Lefebvre to suggest that recent developments in cinema may be harmful to its artistic quality and social relevance.
Volume loss, fluid flow and state of strain in extensional mylonites from the central Mojave Desert, California

Abstract Compositional changes in mylonitic rocks from the central Mojave metamorphic core complex, California, indicate that large volume loss (20–70%) attended formation of mylonite along the Waterman Hills detachment fault. Strong silica depletion and significant mobility of normally immobile elements imply large fluid/rock ratios during mylonitization, possibly as a result of multiple-pass hydrothermal convection connecting near-surface and mid-crustal alteration regimes. Dissolution of quartz during mylonitization indicates that the fluid was undersaturated with respect to silica, and therefore was probably not magmatic or connate. Large volume loss in a shear zone should result in apparent flattening strains, yet mylonites throughout the complex, including the mylonites that record large volume loss, exhibit constrictional strains. This inconsistency raises questions about the applicability of the shear-zone model to Cordilleran metamorphic core complexes.
The Use of Defined Peptides in Characterizing Idiotypes

The structural correlates of idiotypes have been sought in several antibody systems. The cumulative results suggest that the hypervariable regions (or complementarity-determining regions) of the heavy and light chains are the structural basis of idiotypes. However, in most cases, it is exceedingly difficult to associate a particular idiotypic determinant with a specific amino acid sequence. Recently, synthetic peptides were used to induce antibodies specific for predefined determinants in intact proteins. These findings led us and others to use synthetic peptides corresponding to the hypervariable regions/complementarity-determining regions to induce anti-idiotypes. These novel anti-idiotypic antibodies are easy to prepare, and are ideal reagents for structural and genetic studies of antibody responses.
Effect of Water Content on the Electrical Conductivity of Na2O≅3SiO2 Glass

Na2O–3SiO2 glasses with up to ≅12 wt% water were prepared under high-pressure, hydrothermal conditions and their electrical conductivities were measured. The conductivity (σ) was found to depend on H2O content in a manner similar to the “mixed-alkali” effect. At constant temperature, σ decreased initially with increasing H2O content to a minimum at 3≅4 wt% H2O and increased with further increase in water content. Infrared spectroanalysis of these glasses was made to determine the type of water present in the glass and the results were interpreted in the context of the measured activation energy and preexponential factor of dc conductivity. The sodium ion diffusion coefficient for a glass containing 0.76 wt% H2O was less than that of water-free glass and in agreement with the electrical conductivity results.
Complete genome sequence of the chromate-reducing bacterium Thermoanaerobacter thermohydrosulfuricus strain BSB-33

Thermoanaerobacter thermohydrosulfuricus BSB-33 is a thermophilic gram positive obligate anaerobe isolated from a hot spring in West Bengal, India. Unlike other T. thermohydrosulfuricus strains, BSB-33 is able to anaerobically reduce Fe(III) and Cr(VI) optimally at 60 °C. BSB-33 is the first Cr(VI) reducing T. thermohydrosulfuricus genome sequenced and of particular interest for bioremediation of environmental chromium contaminations. Here we discuss features of T. thermohydrosulfuricus BSB-33 and the unique genetic elements that may account for the peculiar metal reducing properties of this organism. The T. thermohydrosulfuricus BSB-33 genome comprises 2597606 bp encoding 2581 protein genes, 12 rRNA, 193 pseudogenes and has a G + C content of 34.20 %. Putative chromate reductases were identified by comparative analyses with other Thermoanaerobacter and chromate-reducing bacteria.
A Context-Adaptive Model for Program Evaluation.

The literature on the evaluation of language teaching programs has focused almost entirely on specific issues of methodology and measurement. This article presents a generalized model for ESL program evaluation. The context-adaptive model consists of a series of seven steps designed to guide the program evaluator through consideration of the issues, information, and design elements necessary for a thorough evaluation. These steps are illustrated with examples from the evaluation of the Reading English for Science and Technology (REST) Project at the University of Guadalajara, Mexico. The model is intended to be flexible, lending itself to effective adaptation and refinement as it is implemented in a variety of ESL/EFL contexts.
The use of IV pentamidine as second line prophylaxis for pneumocystis pneumonia

9043 Background: Pneumocystis jirovecii, formerly carinii, pneumonia (PCP) poses a serious risk to pediatric oncology patients. The use of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMZ) prophylaxis greatl...
GREAT PROGRAMS IN ARCHITECTURE: RANKINGS, PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENTS, AND DIVERSE PATHS TO PROMINENCE

What makes a great program in architecture? This paper grapples with a key dilemma faced by architecture programs seeking to be recognized on campus and among their peers. How do schools position themselves to be perceived as programs valued by their universities, faculties, and students, distinguished in ways that represent important dimensions of architecture? The paper first explains how success or performance is currently measured in various ranking and assessment exercises: via reputational surveys; employer reviews; publication and citation counts; complex assessment rankings; and multiple, uncombined performance measures. It then outlines diverse paths or definitions of what it means to be a top or prominent program: elite design; practical readiness; technological sophistication; other substantive or pedagogical niches; and research. This paper argues there are multiple ways in which architecture can be practiced and thus diverse paths to prominence but at present ranking schemes reflect only a narrow range of practice. To take advantage of current rankings schemes, or provide real alternatives, requires institutional activity, however. Individual schools already promote their interests on their web sites and in academic guidebooks but such self representations do not have the appeal to students and university administrators that comparative rankings present. Alternative assessments need to be created such as in the multiple performance measure approach—an approach that allows comparisons among schools but on many dimensions. Merely creating indicators of achievement does not create or improve excellence, of course. However, such measures could provide students with better information for selecting programs, help programs argue for both their worth and their need for resources, and, most importantly, enlarge debates about architectural excellence and the future of the profession.
Global Bridges: Development and Analysis of a Tobacco Treatment Network

The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) set standards for global tobacco control, including the implementation of evidence-based tobacco dependence treatment. However, efforts to implement tobacco treatment programmes globally have been few. In order to expand tobacco treatment expertise and programmes, a new network called Global Bridges (GB) was established. This network provided training in tobacco treatment and opportunities to share best practices on implementation of tobacco dependence treatment and training programmes. In this analysis of the GB network, we found that 75% of the network members attended trainings, 60% disseminated knowledge gained through GB training, and network centralization was high (0.85). These results demonstrate initial success in network implementation, and create a foundation for expanded focus on tobacco treatment globally.
Successive Generations of Bollworms on Cotton in Field Cages

When field-grown cotton in the early squaring stage was caged and infested with 1st-instar bollworms, Heliothis zea (Boddie), 2 generations plus a partial 3rd generation developed successively without any apparent loss of vigor. The 3rd-generation larvae developed into diapausing pupae.
End-state comfort trumps handedness in object manipulation

A goal of research on human perception and performance is to explore the relative importance of constraints shaping action selection. The present study concerned the relative importance of two constraints that have not been directly contrasted: (1) the tendency to grasp objects in ways that afford comfortable or easy-to-control final postures; and (2) the tendency to grasp objects with the dominant rather than the nondominant hand. We asked participants to reach out and grasp a horizontal rod whose left or right end was to be placed into a target after a 90° rotation. In one condition, we told participants which hand to use and let them choose an overhand or underhand initial grasp. In another condition, we told participants which grasp to use and let them choose either hand. Participants sacrificed hand preference to perform the task in a way that ensured a comfortable or easy to control thumb-up posture at the time of object placement, indicating that comfort trumped handedness. A second experiment confirmed that comfort was indeed higher for thumb-down postures than thumb-up postures. A third experiment confirmed that the choice data could be linked to objective performance differences. The results point to the importance of identifying constraint weightings for action selection and support an account of hand selection that ascribes hand preference to sensitivity to performance differences. The results do not support the hypothesis that hand preference simply reflects a bias to use the dominant hand.
Iterative Learning Control with an Improved Internal Model for a Monitoring Automatic-Gauge-Control System

The long time delay in the monitoring automatic gauge control (AGC) of strip rolling by a tandem hot mill adversely affects system stability. To solve this problem, internal model control (IMC) and iterative learning control were applied to a monitoring-AGC system. A mathematical model of the hydraulic gap control system was established focusing on the seventh stand of a 1450-mm tandem hot mill in a factory. Model parameters were identified employing a particle swarm optimization algorithm. Using the identified hydraulic gap control model, a monitoring AGC system with an improved internal model (IIMC-MNAGC) and an iterative-learning-control strategy for an improved-internal-model monitoring AGC system (ILC-IIMC-MNAGC) were established. Finally, simulation experiments for IIMC-MNAGC and ILC-IIMC-MNAGC were conducted using MATLAB/Simulink software. The simulation results show that for the IIMC-MNAGC system, when the model matches, the rising time reaches 43.6 msec, the overshot reaches 4.34%, the integral square error (ISE) reaches 0.0131, and the Hα norm reaches 2.953. These levels are acceptable for the MN-AGC system. When there is model mismatch due to the inaccuracy of the pure delay, for the IIMC-MNAGC system, the rising time increases to 263.5 msec and the overshot increases to 36.7%, which are unacceptable for the monitoring AGC system. When there is model mismatch for the ILC-IIMC-MNAGC system, the rising time reaches 38.9 msec, the overshot reaches 1.37%, the ISE reaches 0.0095, and the Hα norm reaches 2.989. These levels are acceptable for the monitoring AGC system.