cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A General Framework to Derive Linear, Decoupled and Energy-stable Schemes for Reversible-Irreversible Thermodynamically Consistent Models: Part I Incompressible Hydrodynamic Models.

In this paper, we present a general numerical platform for designing accurate, efficient, and stable numerical algorithms for incompressible hydrodynamic models that obeys the thermodynamical laws. The obtained numerical schemes are automatically linear in time. It decouples the hydrodynamic variable and other state variables such that only small-size linear problems need to be solved at each time marching step. Furthermore, if the classical velocity projection method is utilized, the velocity field and pressure field can be decoupled. In the end, only a few elliptic-type equations shall be solved in each time step. This strategy is made possible through a sequence of model reformulations by fully exploring the models' thermodynamic structures. The generalized Onsager principle directly guides these reformulation procedures. In the reformulated but equivalent models, the reversible and irreversible components can be identified, guiding the numerical platform to decouple the reversible and irreversible dynamics. This eventually leads to decoupled numerical algorithms, given that the coupling terms only involve irreversible dynamics. To further demonstrate the numerical platform's power, we apply it to several specific incompressible hydrodynamic models. The energy stability of the proposed numerical schemes is shown in detail. The second-order accuracy in time is verified numerically through time step refinement tests. Several benchmark numerical examples are presented to further illustrate the proposed numerical framework's accuracy, stability, and efficiency.
Multiple pediatric dermatomyofibromas in a patient with a history of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma.

Dermatomyofibroma (DMF) is an uncommon benign myofibroblastic tumor most frequently seen in adult women; however, there are several reports of pediatric dermatomyofibroma.1,2 Lesions typically appear as long-standing, asymptomatic, skin-colored to red-brown, indurated plaques.1 DMF typically presents as a single lesion, with multiple DMFs representing an exceedingly rare presentation.3 Here, we present a case of multiple DMFs in a pediatric patient with a history of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma and propose a possible association between multiple DMFs and embryonal tumors.
A Retrospective Systematic Review of Diversity Variables in Mindfulness Research, 2000–2016

As mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) become widespread, MBP research samples should be representative of the general public to avoid exclusion of minoritized groups. This systematic review retrospectively investigates demographic diversity in MBP research, based on reported variables and patterns of omission during that time. We reviewed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of standard MBSR and MBCT that targeted self-regulation outcomes through 2016 with healthy and clinical adult populations. Completeness of documentation and analyses for race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, language, education, age, and intersectionality were extracted, compared with census data when possible, and tracked over time based on the date of publication. The included 94 RCTs comprised populations that were predominantly White (79%), middle-aged (46 years), highly educated (15 years), and female (70%). The composition of studies from the USA differed significantly from the US census data. Only 41% of studies reported race or ethnicity, 95% reported gender without non-binary categories, 64% reported education, 89% reported age variance, 2% reported sexual orientation, 9% stratified analyses by demographic variables, and none reported identity multiplicity or intersectionality. MBP efficacy could not be determined for subgroups due to lack of subgroup analyses. Temporal trends show limited improvements in diversity composition and reporting of race over time. MBPs’ potential benefit for diverse populations will depend on adequate reporting of currently underreported demographic variables. To develop culturally responsive interventions, MBPs research must include underrepresented populations to counter observed systemic bias and address inclusion disparities in the field. We offer recommendations to further this aim. The PROSPERO review registration (number: CRD42016051765 (Loucks et al., American Journal of Health Behavior 40:258–267, 2016)) with a review protocol was submitted on December 9, 2016, and confirmed on December 16, 2016.
The Interplay of Jargon, Motivation, and Fatigue While Processing COVID-19 Crisis Communication Over Time

Using the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, this three-wave experiment (N = 1,830) examined whether a public health crisis motivates people to engage with complicated information about the virus i...
The Importance of Wetland Carbon Dynamics to Society

The Second State of the Carbon Cycle Report (SOCCR2) culminated in 19 chapters that spanned all North American sectors – from Energy Systems to Agriculture and Land Use – known to be important for understanding carbon (C) cycling and accounting. Wetlands, both inland and coastal, were found to be significant components of C fluxes along the terrestrial to aquatic hydrologic continuum. In this chapter, we synthesize the role of wetlands in the overall C footprint of North America (from Canada to Mexico) as one metric of the societal values placed on these terrestrial-aquatic interfaces. We also summarize the effects of management activities and climate change on the wetland C cycle and give some perspectives on the current and future importance of wetlands to society.
Historical Perspective on Tunneling in SiO2

This paper examines tunneling in SiO2 in light of work since 1974. It considers both its near-ideal behavior and departures from the ideal. The trapezoidal tunneling barrier is a good first order model provided it has not been degraded by excessive tunnel injection. However, the tunneling dispersion relation x(E) is not constant throughout the oxide film, but different near each interface. For a specific barrier region, good agreement is obtained using a two valley, two effective mass k(E) dependence. Quantum interference effects are clearly observed at the Si-SiO2 interface, but not at the metal-SiO2 interface.
Satellite Cell Behavior in Cyclists Following Intensified Training With and Without Protein Supplementation

Our objective was to investigate the satellite cell (SC) response of endurance-trained cyclists (n=8) to 10 days of intensified cycle training (ICT) and 10 days of subsequent recovery (RVT – reduce...
Enhancement of Performance of an EEG-based Brain-Computer Interface by means of a Time-Frequency Approach

We have developed a novel time-frequency approach of classification of motor imagery (MI) tasks for brain-computer interface (BCI) applications. Through off-line data analysis on data collected during a "cursor control" experiment, we evaluated the capability of our proposed method in revealing the major features of the EEG control and enhancing MI classification accuracy. The pilot results in two human subjects are promising, with a mean accuracy rate of 87.9%, suggesting the feasibility of defining a new and more reliable EEG-based BCI
Dextrorphan and dextromethorphan, common antitussives, are antiepileptic and antagonize in brain slices

Abstract The antitussive, dextromethorphan (DM), and its metabolite, dextrorphan (DX), were evaluated for antiepileptic properties in vitro. Interictal bursts and prolonged ictal epileptiform afterdischarges, induced by perfusion of guinea pig neocortical brain slices with Mg2+-free solution, were blocked by DX (1 250 μM) or DM (100 μM). Intracellular records showed that these agents blocked N- methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA)-induced depolarizations without altering intrinsic membrane properties. DX blocked NMDA but not quisqualate-evoked multi-unit excitatory responses. DM is a widely available, orally effective drug with low toxicity in antitussive doses, which has antiepileptic and NMDA-antagonist properties in vitro. Its toxicity and effectiveness as an anticonvulsant should be expeditiously examined in clinical trials.
Estimation of aircraft performance parameters from ADS-C EPP data

New ATM trends consider a wide range of automation and shared data within new trajectory based operations. Within this concept aircraft will be able to predict and share very accurate trajectory data via Automatic Dependent Surveillance — Contract Extended Projected Profile (ADS-C EPP) reports. Current ground trajectory prediction tools do not have information on some important aircraft parameters that affect the performance and accuracy of predicted ground trajectory. ADS-C EPP is considered as an important source of those missing data. Most missing information is directly available from EPP report (e.g. current and predicted gross weight, predicted speed profile, predicted times on WPs, etc.). However, several other useful parameters can be further derived from EPP, such as rate of climb and descent, intended speed profile, and Mach/CAS crossover altitude. This article provides methods for how ground prediction tools can derive these parameters from EPP reports. Those parameters can then be used as input for the ground prediction process and help to make ground trajectory and ground aircraft performance predictions more accurate. By bringing together aircraft and avionics manufacturers, as well as the ANSPs and ground industry, SESAR has provided an appropriate environment to study and validate the benefits of the EPP for Air Traffic Control in parallel with the finalization of standards. This study provides a new method of using airborne computed data as to maximize ADS-C EPP expected benefits. Major emphasis is focused on climb data, however the cruise and descent phase are briefly discussed as well.
Retinoic acid and the heart

Retinoic acid (RA), the active derivative of vitamin A, by acting through retinoid receptors, is involved in signal transduction pathways regulating embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and cellular differentiation and proliferation. RA is important for the development of the heart. The requirement of RA during early cardiovascular morphogenesis has been studied in targeted gene deletion of retinoic acid receptors and in the vitamin A-deficient avian embryo. The teratogenic effects of high doses of RA on cardiovascular morphogenesis have also been demonstrated in different animal models. Specific cardiovascular targets of retinoid action include effects on the specification of cardiovascular tissues during early development, anteroposterior patterning of the early heart, left/right decisions and cardiac situs, endocardial cushion formation, and in particular, the neural crest. In the postdevelopment period, RA has antigrowth activity in fully differentiated neonatal cardiomyocytes and cardiac fibroblasts. Recent studies have shown that RA has an important role in the cardiac remodeling process in rats with hypertension and following myocardial infarction. This chapter will focus on the role of RA in regulating cardiomyocyte growth and differentiation during embryonic and the postdevelopment period.
Multi-Million Particle Molecular Dynamics on MPPs

We discuss the computational difficulties associated with performing large-scale molecular dynamics simulations involving more than 100 million atoms on modern massively parallel supercomputers. We discuss various performance and memory optimization strategies along with the method we have used to write a highly portable parallel application. Finally, we discuss some recent work addressing the problems associated with analyzing and visualizing the data generated from multi-million particle MD simulations.
Using Electronic Self-Assessment to Develop Effective Conferencing Skills

Conferencing is the commonly used vehicle for improving instruction by providing feedback to teachers. However, it is the nature of the feedback given to the teacher and how it is delivered, using effective conferencing strategies and techniques, that will actually involve the teacher in understanding, accepting, agreeing and initiating changes, or make him angry and hostile. This article focuses on defining effective conferencing strategies, and the process that was used to help program participants preparing for leadership certification to practice these strategies in a clinical setting. The leadership program at Hunter College prepares educators for certification as school building and district leaders. Supervision of instruction for student achievement is considered the heart of the work of the school and district leader. Therefore a major focus for program participants seeking leadership certification is on content and practice for conferencing effectiveness. Participants learn and practice these skills in simulations, and then implement them by trying out their abilities in the field in real observation and conferencing experiences with a practicing classroom teacher. Participants video-tape themselves conducing conferences with their practicing classroom teacher clients following an observation. They then view the video of their conference performance and self-assess their conferencing skills by electronically recording the behaviors they observe using a set of criteria and design a growth plan for the further development of their conferencing skills.
Canine Sinonasal Skeletal Neoplasms: Chondrosarcomas and Osteosarcomas

We studied 34 chondrosarcomas and 17 osteosarcomas among 285 sinonasal neoplasms in the dog. Mesenchymal chondrosarcomas (24) were more common than ordinary chondrosarcomas. Ultrastructural studies done in one case confirmed mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. Of the osteosarcomas, fibroblastic osteosarcoma (7) was the most common. In contrast to non-sinonasal skeletal neoplasms which are composed mostly (80%) of osteosarcomas, chondrosarcomas (66%) and mesenchymal chondrosarcomas (47%) were predominant among the sinonasal skeletal neoplasms of this study. The average age (ten years) of the dogs with sinonasal osteosarcoma was higher than that of dogs with non-sinonasal skeletal osteosarcoma, and there was a distinct male predominance in the dogs with osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma. Large breed dogs and boxers, frequently affected with skeletal neoplasms, were not affected commonly with sinonasal osteosarcoma. The frequency of metastasis in the dogs with chondrosarcoma and osteosarcoma was much lower than that seen in dogs with nonsinonasal skeletal neoplasms.
Using OLPC laptop technology as a computer science case study teaching tool

The One Laptop Per Child project has succeeded in developing a novel computer that is tailored to the particular needs of the developing world. The use of this example of a modern computer systems design challenge can be a valuable case study as a teaching tool in computer science. The OLPC laptop is a multiple-purpose computer that is rugged, low-cost, low-power, mesh-networked, and inexpensive. An overview of the technology in the laptops is given, as well as curricula suggestions for using the laptops in an undergraduate computer science curriculum.
Hybrid System for the Inventory of the Cultural Heritage Using Voice Interface for Knowledge acquisition

This document presents our work on a definition and experimentation of a voice interface for cultural heritage inventory. This hybrid system includes signal processing, natural language techniques and knowledge modeling for future retrieval. We discuss the first results and present some challenges for our future work.
Role of future scenarios in understanding deep uncertainty in long-term air quality management

The environment and its interactions with human systems, whether economic, social, or political, are complex. Relevant drivers may disrupt system dynamics in unforeseen ways, making it difficult to predict future conditions. This kind of “deep uncertainty” presents a challenge to organizations faced with making decisions about the future, including those involved in air quality management. Scenario Planning is a structured process that involves the development of narratives describing alternative future states of the world, designed to differ with respect to the most critical and uncertain drivers. The resulting scenarios are then used to understand the consequences of those futures and to prepare for them with robust management strategies. We demonstrate a novel air quality management application of Scenario Planning. Through a series of workshops, important air quality drivers were identified. The most critical and uncertain drivers were found to be “technological development” and “change in societal pa...
Functional genomics: technological challenges and opportunities

Strausberg, Robert L., and M. J. Finley Austin. Functional genomics: technological challenges and opportunities. Physiol. Genomics 1: 25–32, 1999.—In April, the Merck Genome Research Institute and the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Genome Anatomy Project, both supporters of functional genomics technology development and research, brought together a group of 27 scientists working at the forefront of this new field. Here we report on the presentations, discussions, and outcomes from this highly interactive and stimulating meeting held at the Banbury Center.
An Overview of RDM: Rational Design Methodology

The Rational Design Methodology (RDM) is a software design method that has been derived from a collection of concepts, models, and techniques taken from ten or more years of reaearch on programming methodologies. RDM unifies this work into a systematic method for design and documentation of sequential programs. The unique features of RDM are: The combined use of data abstraction and Dijkstra’s constructive approach to program design. The encapsulation of objects, their abstract data types and programs by an abstract machine. The structure of program design as a hierarchy of abstract machines representing refinements of abstract data types.
Gender and Comorbid Psychopathology in Adolescents With Alcohol Dependence

ABSTRACT Objective Although several mental disorders have been shown to be common in adolescents with substance use disorders, prior studies have not specifically focused on alcohol dependence and have not had sufficient sample sizes to examine gender effects. This study contrasts mental disorder diagnoses and symptoms between a sample of adolescents with alcohol dependence and a community control sample of adolescents and incorporates gender analyses. Method Adolescents (aged 14 years 0 months to 18 years 0 months) with alcohol dependence (females: n = 55; males: n = 78) and community-dwelling control adolescents without substance use disorders (females: n = 44; males: n = 42) were assessed by means of a semistructured interview for DSM-III-R. Results While cannabis and hallucinogen use disorders were common in the alcohol dependence group, females and males had similar rates. Conduct disorder (CD), oppositional defiant disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, major depression (MD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) had significantly higher rates in the alcohol dependence group than in the community control group. Depression and PTSD symptoms were more strongly associated with alcohol dependence in females than in males. A configural frequency analysis showed that CD and MD tended to occur together in both female and male adolescents with alcohol dependence. Conclusions While alcohol-dependent females and males similarly exhibited more comorbid disorders than control adolescents, gender affects the relationships of alcohol dependence to MD and PTSD. Rather than reflecting distinct types, the comorbid disorders of CD and MD jointly characterize many adolescents with alcohol dependence.
Photochemistry-based immune modulation in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis

The destruction of infectious pathogens by photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an emerging modality. We demonstrated the efficacy of PDT for the management of cutaneous leishmaniasis in our previous studies. However, much remains to be done for the improvement of PDT regimens. The modulation of the immune response by photochemistry is an exciting but under-explored area of PDT research. The goal of this study is to understand the mechanisms of the augmentation of the host immune response after PDT of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). We found that PDT with phenoxiazine analogues was capable for induction of Th1 immune response due to stimulation of IL- 12 production by dendritic cells. Single PDT treatment facilitated fast healing of the CL lesions due to effective parasite eradication and augmentation of the immune system. Comparative study with different photosensitizers (PS) (porphyrins, pehnoxiazines) demonstrated different immunomodulating properties of PDT depending on chemical class of PS. Knowing the particular profiles and immunomodulating properties of the pertinent PSs allows us to select the optimal PS with regards to both the photodestructive and immunostimulating potential.
An American doctor looks at 11 foreign health systems

Abstract This paper examines certain salient differences occuring among health systems of 11 different countries. Comparisons are made regarding relative efficiencies of medical care systems and the importance of relating the practice of medicine to the prevailing social conditions is examined.
An analysis of joint costs in a managed forest ecosystem

Abstract This paper analyzes the tenability of line item budgeting and independently determined output costs for a managed forest ecosystem. The general problem of cost allocation in a joint production system is discussed as one of choosing paths of integration. A production structure is hypothesized for describing a managed forest ecosystem and its characteristics of “jointness” are discussed. Finally, an empirical case example is presented which indicates that cost estimates and associated means of production which result from single output costing procedures and from joint costing procedures may be significantly different in a managed forest ecosystem.
Iliac artery bladder fistulization ten years post renal transplantation

Abstract We report the first known case of arteriovesical fistulization arising from the iliac artery and presenting ten years post-renal transplantaion.
An Analysis of Topical Coverage of Wikipedia

Many have questioned the reliability and accuracy of Wikipedia. Here a different issue, but one closely related: how broad is the coverage of Wikipedia? Differences in the interests and attention of Wikipedia’s editors mean that some areas, in the traditional sciences, for example, are better covered than others. Two approaches to measuring this coverage are presented. The first maps the distribution of topics on Wikipedia to the distribution of books published. The second compares the distribution of topics in three established, field-specific academic encyclopedias to the articles found in Wikipedia. Unlike the top-down construction of traditional encyclopedias, Wikipedia’s topical coverage is driven by the interests of its users, and as a result, the reliability and completeness of Wikipedia is likely to be different depending on the subject-area of the article.
The Ibis : Transformations in a Twentieth Century British Natural History Journal

The contents of the British Ornithologists' Union's journal, The Ibis, during the first half of the 20th century illustrates some of the transformations that have taken place in the naturalist tradition. Although later generations of ornithologists described these changes as logical and progressive, their historical narratives had more to do with legitimizing the infiltration of the priorities of evolutionary theory, ecology, and ethology than analyzing the legacy of the naturalist tradition on its own terms. Despite ornithologists' claim that the journal's increasing focus on "biology" represented a natural development after the preliminary phase of systematics and geographical ornithology, in fact a small group campaigned to bring the priorities of population ecology, behavior, and selection theory into the journal and British ornithology more generally. The problems involved in this transition highlight the importance of methodological and institutional context in determining and reinforcing appropriate research programs for ornithologists. Comparing the discipline-building rhetoric of moderns with the contents of the past illustrates how modern evaluations of 19th century research programs have been enmeshed in ornithologists' endeavors to forge new identities for traditional disciplines.
Whole-rock Pb and Sm-Nd isotopic constraints on the growth of southeastern Laurentia during Grenvillian orogenesis

The conventional view that the basement of the southern and central Appalachians represents juvenile Mesoproterozoic crust, the final stage of growth of Laurentia prior to Grenville collision, has recently been challenged. New whole-rock Pb and Sm‑Nd isotopic data are presented from Mesoproterozoic basement in the southern and central Appalachians and the Granite-Rhyolite province, as well as one new U-Pb zircon age from the Granite-Rhyolite province. These data, combined with existing data from Mesoproterozoic terranes throughout southeastern Laurentia, further substantiate recent suggestions that the southern and central Appalachian basement is exotic with respect to Laurentia. Sm-Nd isotopic compositions of most rocks from the southern and central Appalachian basement are consistent with progressive growth through reworking of the adjacent Granite-Rhyolite province. However, Pb isotopic data, including new analyses from important regions not sampled in previous studies, do not correspond with Pb isotopic compositions of any adjacent crust. The most distinct ages and isotopic compositions in the southern and central Appalachian basement come from the Roan Mountain area, eastern Tennessee–western North Carolina. The data set indicates U-Pb zircon ages up to 1.8 Ga for igneous rocks, inherited and detrital zircon ages >2.0 Ga, Sm-Nd depleted mantle model (T DM ) ages >2.0 Ga, and the most elevated 207 Pb/ 204 Pb observed in southeastern Laurentia. The combined U-Pb geochronologic and Sm-Nd and Pb isotopic data preclude derivation of southern and central Appalachian basement from any nearby crustal material and demonstrate that Grenville age crust in southeastern Laurentia is exotic and probably was transferred during collision and assembly of Rodinia. These new data better define the boundary between the exotic southern and central Appalachian basement and adjacent Laurentian Granite-Rhyolite province.
Bioavailability of Elemental Iron Powders in Bread Assessed with an In vitro Digestion/Caco-2 Cell Culture Model

esulting breads, with and without added ascorbic acid, w , with and without added ascorbic acid, w , with and without added ascorbic acid, w , with and without added ascorbic acid, w , with and without added ascorbic acid, were evaluated using F aluated using F aluated using F aluated using F aluated using FeSO 4 4 4 4 4 as as as as the contr the contr the contr the contr the control. D ol. D ol. D ol. D
Propagation properties of tapered graded-index waveguides

Abstract Propagation of light in multimode parabolic-index linear tapers is studied using a geometrical optics approach. Considering a two-dimensional model, ray trajectories are derived analytically for tapers with small angles. Both bound and leaky rays are examined. It is shown that ray trajectories are described by modulated sinusoidal functions with decreasing amplitude and period as light propagates in the direction of decreasing thickness of the taper core, thus gradual concentration of power from the larger area to the smaller one. Radiation loss of tapers when used to connect two multimode optical waveguides with different core areas, and coupling efficiencies when they are used to couple power from collimated-beam and Lambertian light sources to waveguides are determined. Numerical results for ray trajectories illustrating the gradual concentration of light power, radiation loss, coupling efficiency, and improvement in coupling efficiency for collimated-beam illumination and Lambertian sources a...
In Vitro Digestion Kinetics of Temperate Perennial Forage Legume and Grass Stems

Digestion of plant cell walls (CW) in the rumen is determined part by digestion kinetics. This study was conducted to gain information regarding plant factors that affect in vitro kinetics of CW digestion. Analyses were conducted on the basal 150 mm o immature and mature stems of field-grown cultivars of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.), red clover (Trifolium pratense L.), smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.), and orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.). Stem samples were digested in rumen fluid, and data were fitted with a first-order nonlinear model to estimate potentially digestible CW (PDCW), indigestible residue (IR), digestion rate of PDCW, and digestion lag. These parameters of digestion kinetics were related to CW constituents determined previously. Maximum size of IR was about two-thirds of CW mass. Within legume and grass stems, IR was closely correlated with lignic noncentration (r = 0.84 and 0.94, respectively). The IR:lignin ratio, however, was 71% greater in grasses than in legumes. The IR concentration was positively related by stepwise regression to total nitrobenzene oxidation products (NBO) of core lignin, lignin concentration, p-coumaric acid concentration, and arabinose:xylose ratio; and was negatively related to proportion rhamnose in CW neutral sugars. Digestion rate of PDCW was 50% faster in legume than in grass stems and 70% faster in immature than in mature stems. By using stepwise regression, digestion rate of PDCW was negatively related to NBO:lignin ratio, and was positively related to proportion mannose in CW neutral sugars and to the arabinose:xylose ratio. Results of this study suggest that selecting for low NBO:lignin ratio and low p-courmaric acid concentration will reduce the inhibitory influence of lignin on digestive kinetics. Joint contribution of the Iowa Cluster Program of the U.S. Dairy Forage Res. Ctr. and Iowa State Univ. Journal Paper no. J-12944 of the Iowa Agric. and Home Econ. Exp. Stn. Project 2709.
'Natural' search user interfaces

Users will speak rather than type, watch video rather than read, and use technology socially rather than alone.
Age-related changes in cochlear endolymphatic potassium and potential in CD-1 and CBA/CaJ mice.

The CD-1 mouse strain is known to have early onset of hearing loss that is progressive with aging. We sought to determine whether a disturbance of K+ homeostasis and pathological changes in the cochlear lateral wall were involved in the age-related hearing loss (AHL) of CD-1 as compared to the CBA/CaJ strain which has minimal AHL. In the present study, the endocochlear potential (EP) and endolymphatic K+ concentration ([K+]e) were measured in both strains of mice with double-barrel microelectrodes at “young” (1–2 mo) and “old” (5–9 mo) ages. CBA/CaJ mice displayed no changes with aging in EP and [K+]e of the basal turn. In the apical turn, there was a small positive shift of the EP (10 mV) with aging under both normoxic and acute anoxic conditions (−EP), without any change of [K+]e. Further, there were no obvious pathological changes in the lateral wall of CBA/CaJ mice. By contrast, old CD-1 mice displayed a significantly reduced [K+]e by 30% in both basal and apical turns with no significant changes in normoxic EP. The −EP in the apical turn was significantly reduced in magnitude by 6 mV. A severe loss of cells with aging was observed in the region of type IV fibrocytes of the apical and basal turns and of type II fibrocytes in the basal turn. A complete degeneration of organ of Corti was also observed at the basal turn of old CD-1 mice, as well as a basalward decline of spiral ganglion neuron density. The pathological changes in spiral ligament of CD-1 mice were similar to those of an inbred mouse strain C57BL/6J that expresses an AHL gene (ahl) and might be a primary etiology of AHL of CD-1 mice. These findings have ramifications for our understanding of AHL and for interpretation of genetic mutations in a CD-1 background.
C: a language for high-level, efficient, and machine-independent dynamic code generation

Dynamic code generation allows specialized code sequences to be created using runtime information. Since this information is by definition not available statically, the use of dynamic code generation can achieve performance inherently beyond that of static code generation. Previous attempts to support dynamic code generation have been low-level, expensive, or machine-dependent. Despite the growing use of dynamic code generation, no mainstream language provides flexible, portable, and efficient support for it.We describe 'C (Tick C), a superset of ANSI C that allows flexible, high-level. efficient, and machine-independent specification of dynamically generated code. 'C provides many of the performance benefits of pure partial evaluation, but in the context of a complex, statically typed, but widely used language. 'C examples illustrate the ease of specifying dynamically generated code and how it can be put to use. Experiments with a prototype compiler show that 'C enables excellent performance improvement (in some cases, more than an order of magnitude).
Solid phase microextraction of alkenylbenzenes and other flavor-related compounds from tobacco for analysis by selected ion monitoring gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Abstract Some constituents found in natural flavorings are known to exhibit toxic properties. We developed a rapid method for quantifying 12 flavor-related compounds in cigarette tobacco using headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Using selected ion monitoring, we quantified and positively identified coumarin; pulegone; piperonal and nine alkenylbenzenes, including trans-anethole, safrole, methyleugenol and myristicin in one or more brands of cigarettes. In 62% of 68 brands analyzed, we detected one or more of the flavor-related compounds ranging from 0.0018 to 43 μg/g. Toxic properties of these flavor-related compounds may constitute an additional health risk related to cigarette smoking.
Myocardial Coronary Hemangiomatous Tumors in Children

Persistent and severe ST segment and T wave changes associated with an apical diastolic murmur were observed in an asymptomatic five-year-old girl for ten years. Recent development of exertional dyspnea and chest pain prompted a detailed cardiovascular re-evaluation. The symptomatology and the electrocardiographic changes are attributed to an angiomatous tumor involving the anterolateral myocardium demonstrated by selective coronary arteriography. The literature regarding primary cardiac vascular tumors was reviewed and the clinical and therapeutic implications were discussed.
An equipartition of planar sets

We describe the "cobweb" partition scheme and show that it can split any planar set into eight regions of equal area.
Time-Resolved Beam Energy Measurements at LAMPF

A narrow atomic photodetachment resonance is used to measure the LAMPF beam energy. Energy and time resolution are adequate to permit the use of this method in studying transient changes in accelerated beam energy.
Tunneling hot electron transfer amplifiers (theta): Amplifiers operating up to the infrared

Abstract A family of novel three-terminal devices which relies on the transfer of a quasi-monoenergetic hot electron beam through a thin base is described. The devices are similar in principle to the proposed tunneling amplifier by Mead in the early sixties (“Cold Cathode” or “Metal Base” amplifiers). Results are reviewed and the probable reasons for the poor performances are pointed out. It is predicted that, with a proper choice of parameters, metal-base amplifiers can operate as switches, negative resistance devices and continuous amplifiers in the subpicosecond range. Two subclasses are described: The tunneling emitter (THETA), in the major part of the work, and the nontunneling emitter (BHETA) amplifiers. In the THETA family the metal-oxide-metal-oxide-metal (MOMOM), the MOM-semiconductor (MOMS), and the heterojunctions devices are described. Members of the BHETA family generate quasi-monoenergetic electron beams by injecting electrons by an n + n − or a metal- n − junctions, and include a variety of metals and semiconductor combinations. Very thin films are required in these devices (oxides ∼15 A, metals ∼100 A, semiconductors ∼100 A). The molecular beam epitaxy technique and lattice matching considerations are required for pinhole free semiconductors and metal films with minimum interface states. Sputter-oxidation methods are needed for thin oxide growth. Systems which combine these features with availability of microfabrication make these devices feasible today.
Carotid angioplasty and stent placement for restenosis after endarterectomy

Introduction Recurrent carotid stenosis following endarterectomy is a common complication, and reoperation may be associated with increased morbidity. The goal of this study was to determine the procedural safety and long-term complication rates of carotid angioplasty and stenting for recurrent stenosis.
mTORC1 Inhibition via Rapamycin Promotes Triacylglycerol Lipolysis and Release of Free Fatty Acids in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Signaling by mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) promotes anabolic cellular processes in response to growth factors, nutrients, and hormonal cues. Numerous clinical trials employing the mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin (aka sirolimus) to immuno-suppress patients following organ transplantation have documented the development of hypertriglyceridemia and elevated serum free fatty acids (FFA). We therefore investigated the cellular role of mTORC1 in control of triacylglycerol (TAG) metabolism using cultured murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes. We found that treatment of adipocytes with rapamycin reduced insulin-stimulated TAG storage ~50%. To determine whether rapamycin reduces TAG storage by upregulating lipolytic rate, we treated adipocytes in the absence and presence of rapamycin and isoproterenol, a β2-adrenergic agonist that activates the cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway to promote lipolysis. We found that rapamycin augmented isoproterenol-induced lipolysis without altering cAMP levels. Rapamycin enhanced the isoproterenol-stimulated phosphorylation of hormone sensitive lipase (HSL) on Ser-563 (a PKA site), but had no effect on the phosphorylation of HSL S565 (an AMPK site). Additionally, rapamycin did not affect the isoproterenol-mediated phosphorylation of perilipin, a protein that coats the lipid droplet to initiate lipolysis upon phosphorylation by PKA. These data demonstrate that inhibition of mTORC1 signaling synergizes with the β-adrenergic-cAMP/PKA pathway to augment phosphorylation of HSL to promote hormone-induced lipolysis. Moreover, they reveal a novel metabolic function for mTORC1; mTORC1 signaling suppresses lipolysis, thus augmenting TAG storage.
Calculation of properties of ionic water clusters by the MNDO method

Abstract Airborne ions created by cosmic rays and earth radioactivity can be subject to hydration. Hydrated ion clusters are of great atmospheric importance, e.g. in regards to atmospheric electricity and ion nucleation. Computed results for the heats of formation and the entropy changes for small ion water clusters H 3 O + (H 2 O) n are reported in comparison with observations and ab initio calculations. Despite the exclusion of hydrated ion clusters in the procedure of parameterization in our earlier modified treatment of MNDO (modified neglect of differential overlap) specifically for treating water clusters (H 2 O) n , computed results of the hydrated ion clusters are in reasonable agreement with observation and ab initio calculations.
Ronidazole pharmacokinetics after intravenous and oral immediate-release capsule administration in healthy cats⋆:

Ronidazole (RDZ) is an effective treatment for feline Tritrichomonas foetus infection, but has produced neurotoxicity in some cats. An understanding of the disposition of RDZ in cats is needed in order to make precise dosing recommendations. Single-dose pharmacokinetics of intravenous (IV) RDZ and immediate-release RDZ capsules were evaluated. A single dose of IV RDZ (mean 9.2 mg/kg) and a 95 mg immediate-release RDZ capsule (mean 28.2 mg/kg) were administered to six healthy cats in a randomized crossover design. Plasma samples were collected for 48 h and assayed for RDZ using high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Systemic absorption of oral RDZ was rapid and complete, with detection in the plasma of all cats by 10 min after dosing and a bioavailability of 99.64 (±16.54)%. The clearance of RDZ following IV administration was 0.82 (±0.07) ml/kg/min. The terminal half-life was 9.80 (±0.35) and 10.50 (±0.82) h after IV and oral administration, respectively, with drug detectable in all cats 48 h after both administrations. The high oral bioavailability of RDZ and slow elimination may predispose cats to neurotoxicity with twice-daily administration. Less frequent administration should be considered for further study of effective treatment of T foetus-infected cats.
Egg Size and the Egg Predatory Behaviour of Crows

Patterns of corvid predation on different sized white eggs were studied in a series of field experiments. Different sized eggs were set out singly and in simulated nests containing clutches of same sized and different sized eggs. The eggs were set out in meadows where they were subjected to intense predation by crows. The most common predation method of the crows was to fly off with eggs and to cache (bury) or eat them at a distance from the site of predation. The larger eggs were more frequently pecked open at the egg site and were less effectively picked up and carried off by the crows. Apparently as a result of the ease of grasping smaller eggs, these eggs were much more vulnerable to predation than were larger eggs. These results combined with field observations and previous findings indicate that Corvus predators may exert differential pressures on different sized eggs both within and among clutches, intra- or interspecifically. These patterns of crow predation analyzed in terms of the gulls' parental investment among the different eggs within a three egg clutch suggest that smaller third eggs may have been (and continue to be) selected in the evolution of a balanced predator-prey system between crow predators and ground nesting gulls. Cooperative aspects of corvid group hunting patterns are also discussed.
Electrophysiological properties of a new isolated rat retina preparation.

Abstract A piece of rat retina was mounted in an open chamber and perfused with a Ringer solution at 37°C. The electroretinogram (ERG) was recorded between an extracellular microelectrode in contact with the rod outer segments and a reference electrode under the retina. The addition of 250–500 μM of glutamate to the media prevented the b-wave from decaying in amplitude with time. Minor components of the ERG, the scotopic threshold response (STR) and oscillatory potentials (OPs), were well maintained with glutamate in the media. Experiments on the spatial properties of the recordings indicated that a small area immediately around the microelectrode contributes most strongly to the response. The similarity of ERGs recorded in vivo from the cornea to the transretinal ERGs from the isolated retina of the same animal indicated that the functional integrity of the isolated retina was well preserved in the media with glutamate.
MSH activity in plasma and pituitaries of rats with large hypothalamic lesions.

The effect of medial basal hypothalamic lesions on plasma and pituitary melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) was determined in albino rats. 32 days postoperatively, plasma levels of MSH were elevated
Use of Stiffness of Hot-Mix Asphalt as a Simple Performance Test

The objective was to determine whether the stiffness of a mix could be used as a simple performance test (SPT) parameter to complement the Superpave® volumetric mix design. This was investigated by a statistical analysis of the strength of the correlation between different mixture stiffness parameters and field performance (rutting, thermal, and fatigue cracking). A total of 30 mixtures were tested with laboratory-fabricated specimens. The studied stiffness parameters were compressive dynamic (complex) modulus |E*|, simple shear tester (SST) shear (complex) modulus |G*|, and dynamic elastic modulus Ed, obtained from ultrasonic wave propagation. Also, computed stiffness factors |E*|/sin ϕ and |G*|/sin ϕ for rutting and |E*|sin ϕ for cracking were studied as analogous to the Superpave binder specification. Research indicated that the correlation to rutting varied based on test temperature and frequency; it peaked at 54.4°C and 5 Hz. At peak conditions, |E*|/sin ϕ had better statistical correlation to ruttin...
Kuramoto-Sivashinsky dynamics on the center-unstable manifold

This paper studies the dynamical behavior of solutions of the Kuramoto–Sivashinsky partial differential equation with periodic boundary conditions on a spatial interval $[ 0,h ]$. The length h is the bifurcation parameter and reduction is made to a two-(complex-)dimensional system on a local center-unstable manifold near the second bifurcation point $h_2 $ from the trivial solution. The resulting $O( 2 )$-equivariant system displays all the behavior found in high precision simulations of the partial differential equation near this bifurcation point. In particular, bifurcation sequences to stable traveling waves, unstable modulated traveling waves, and attracting heteroclinic cycles are reproduced qualitatively and quantitatively within $1\%$ in the parameter range $h_2 \pm 20\% $. A clear understanding of the global dynamical behavior in this region is thus obtained.
A RESTRICTION FRAGMENT LENGTH POLYMORPHISM ASSAY THAT DIFFERENTIATES HUMANN-ACETYLTRANSFERASE-1 (NAT1) ALLELES

Abstract Currently there is much interest in the N -acetyltransferase-1 ( NAT1 ) genetic polymorphism and its relationship to cancer. Previous studies have described methods to distinguish NAT1 alleles through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and/or allele-specific amplification. However, these methods detect at most only four of the NAT1 alleles identified in human populations. In this paper we describe a PCR-RFLP-based assay that differentiates among eight human NAT1 alleles ( NAT1 * 3 , * 4 , * 5 , * 10 , * 11 , * 14 , * 15 , * 16 ). This method should prove useful in molecular epidemiological studies investigating associations between NAT1 genotype and cancer.