cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
β-Amyloid Peptide Activates α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors Expressed in Xenopus Oocytes

Abstract The α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor is highly expressed in hippocampus and in cholinergic projection neurons from the basal forebrain, structures that are particularly vulnerable to the ravages of Alzheimer's disease. Previous work suggests that β-amyloid peptide can interact with α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, although the nature of this interaction has not been well characterized. To test whether β-amyloid peptide can activate α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, we expressed these receptors inXenopus oocytes and performed two-electrode voltage clamp recordings, characterizing the response to β-amyloid peptide 1–42 applied at concentrations ranging from 1 pm to 100 nm. In α7-expressing oocytes, β-amyloid peptide 1–42 elicits inward currents at low concentrations (1–100 pm), whereas at higher concentrations (nm), less effective receptor activation is observed, indicative of receptor desensitization. Preincubation with the α7-selective agents, the antagonist methyllycaconatine, and the agonist 4-OH-GTS-21 blocked β-amyloid peptide-induced receptor activation. β-amyloid peptide 1–42 at low concentrations was able to activate the L250T mutant α7 receptor. The endogenous Ca2+-activated chloride current inXenopus oocytes is recruited upon receptor activation since replacing Ca2+ with Ba2+ in the recording solution reduced current amplitude. Thus, when β-amyloid peptide activation of α7 receptors occurs, these currents are comprised, at least in part, of Ca2+.
Polarized q→Λ fragmentation functions from e+e-→Λ+X

Measurement of the helicity asymmetric cross section for semi-inclusive production of \ensuremath{\Lambda} hyperons in ${\mathit{e}}^{+}$${\mathit{e}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ annihilation near the ${\mathit{Z}}^{0}$ resonance allows a complete determination of the spin-dependent fragmentation functions for the different quark flavors into the \ensuremath{\Lambda}. The parity-violating, self-analyzing, decay of the final state \ensuremath{\Lambda} makes the experimental analysis of the helicity asymmetry possible. This experiment should be practical with present day technology at the LEP collider at CERN or at the SLAC Linear Collider.
Non-dyadic Haar wavelets for streaming and sensor data

In streaming and sensor data applications, the problems of synopsis construction and outlier detection are important. Due to their low complexity, desirable properties and relative ease of understanding, wavelet based techniques are often used for both synopsis construction and anomaly detection. In streaming data literature, Mallat's algorithm [1] is often used to achieve a Haar wavelet decomposition in O(n) time. However, there is one limitation to this popular technique, in that it leads to a dyadic decomposition of data. We demonstrate that the property of non-dyadicity is of considerable use in synopsis construction and anomaly detection. In this regard we present several application results, a synopsis data structure for streaming data that is an order of magnitude superior to the popular Haar based wavelet technique, a method for finding anomalies for sensor data over non-dyadic hierarchies, etc. In our work, we enable non-dyadicity by proposing a Mallat like construction for a wavelet system that admits non-dyadic basis. Our algorithm builds a non-dyadic hierarchical structure, and is more efficient than the state of the art construction. We prove the correctness of our construction by showing that our basis functions demonstrates the properties of a wavelet system.
Earliest art in the Americas: incised image of a proboscidean on a mineralized extinct animal bone from Vero Beach, Florida

Abstract A fragmented fossil bone incised with the figure of a proboscidean was recently found at Vero Beach, Florida near the location where Late Pleistocene fauna and human bones were recovered from 1913 to 1916. This engraving may represent the oldest and only existing example of Terminal Pleistocene art depicting a proboscidean in the Americas. Because of the uniqueness, rarity, and potential antiquity of this specimen, caution demanded that a variety of tests be used in an attempt to verify its authenticity. The mineralized bone was identified as mammoth, mastodon, or giant sloth. Rare earth element analysis was consistent with the fossil bone being ancient and originating at or near the Old Vero site (8-IR-9). Forensic analysis suggests the markings on the bone are not recent. Optical microscopy results show no discontinuity in coloration between the carved grooves and the surrounding material indicating that both surfaces aged simultaneously. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that the edges of the inscription are worn and show no signs of being incised recently or that the grooves were made with metal tools. In addition, the backscattered SEM images suggest there is no discontinuity in the distribution of light and heavy elements between the scribed region and the surrounding bone indicating that both surfaces aged in the same environment. This is very different from an intentional mark made on the bone for comparison. Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) shows that the surface contains significant amounts of calcium, phosphorus, oxygen, and carbon typical of a mineralized bone surface. Examination of a cast and mold of the incised bone by Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) also provided no evidence that the engraving was made recently. All of these results are consistent with the mammoth engraving being authentic.
Steady-state approach to the kinetics of radical polymerization of vinyl chloride: A reinterpretation

Previously reported studies on the kinetics of the radioinduced polymerization of vinyl chloride have been reexamined. It is pointed out that the reaction scheme on which the steady-state approach was based has certain limitations which cannot be resolved when applied to the radioinduced bulk polymerization of prepolymerized polymer --monomer mixtures, in which the polymer particle size shows a marked effect. (JGB)
Growth of SiC and III–V nitride thin films via gas-source molecular beam epitaxy and their characterization

Abstract Silicon carbide (SiC) and aluminum nitride (AlN) thin films have been grown on 6HSiC(0001) substrates by gas-source molecular beam epitaxy (GSMBE) at 1050°C. Step flow, step bunching and the deposition of 6HSiC occurred at the outset of the exposure of the (1 × 1) vicinal substrate surface to C 2 H 4 Si 2 H 6 gas flow ratios of 1, 2 and 10. Subsequent deposition resulted in step flow and continued growth of 6H films or formation and coalescence of 3CSiC islands using the gas flow ratio of one or the ethylene-rich ratios, respectively. The (3 × 3) surface reconstruction observed using the former ratio is believed to enhance the diffusion lengths of the adatoms, which in turn promotes step flow growth. Essentially atomically flat monocrystalline AlN surfaces were obtained using on-axis substrates. Island-like features were observed on the vicinal surface. The coalescence of the latter features at steps gave rise to inversion domain boundaries (IDBs) as a result of the misalignment of the Si C bilayer steps with the AlN bilayers in the growing film. The quality of thicker AlN films is strongly influenced by the concentration of IDBs. Undoped, highly resistive (10 2 Ω · cm) and Mg-doped, p-type (0.3 Ω · cm) monocrystalline GaN films having a thickness of 0.4–0.5 μm have also been grown via the same technique on AlN buffer layers without post-processing annealing.
Aversive conditioning of a phenothiazine-induced respiratory stridor

An attempt was made to reduce a loud high-pitched respiratory stridor in a 52-year-old male hospitalized for paranoid schizophrenia. Four consecutive schedules of electric shock were employed over a period of 68 days. Each treatment session lasted 15 min per day and consisted of ninety 10-sec intervals. In Schedule I (10 days), the subject was shocked every 10 sec if he emitted four or more stridors. In Schedule II (28 days), the subject was shocked if he emitted three or more stridors during each 10-sec interval. In Schedule III (15 days) shock was delivered immediately after the emission of a stridor, and in schedule IV (15 days) the shock switch was depressed immediately after the subject emitted a stridor but no shock was delivered. While the first schedule yielded a reduction in the subject's stridor, a greater decrease was found during Schedule II, wherein almost complete elimination of the behavior occurred. Schedules III and IV both had deleterious effects, with the former schedule showing the greater increase in the stridor. The differential effects of these aversive schedules are discussed.
Interleukin-30: A novel antiinflammatory cytokine candidate for prevention and treatment of inflammatory cytokine-induced liver injury

The liver is the major metabolic organ and is subjected to constant attacks from chronic viral infection, uptake of therapeutic drugs, life behavior (alcoholic), and environmental contaminants, all of which result in chronic inflammation, fibrosis, and ultimately, cancer. Therefore, there is an urgent need to discover effective therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of liver injury; the ideal drug being a naturally occurring biological inhibitor. Here, we establish the role of IL30 as a potent anti-inflammatory cytokine which can inhibit inflammation-induced liver injury. In contrast, IL27, which contains IL30 as a subunit, is not hepatoprotective. Interestingly, IL30 is induced by the pro-inflammatory signal such as IL12 through IFNγ/STAT1 signaling. In animal models, administration of IL30 via a gene therapy approach prevents and treats both IL12-, IFNγ-, and Concanavalin A -induced liver toxicity. Likewise, immunohistochemistry analysis of human tissue samples revealed that IL30 is highly expressed in hepatocytes yet barely expressed in inflammation-induced tissue such as fibrous/connective tissue. These novel observations reveal a novel role of IL30 as a therapeutic cytokine that suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokine-associated liver toxicity.
Dissociation of Bradycardia and Arterial Constriction during Diving in the Seal Phoca vitulina

Bradycardia associated with diving in the harbor seal has been dissociated from the arterial constrictor response by intracardiac pacing. Development of arterial constriction does not depend upon the development of bradycardia. During pacing, arterial constriction continues in the absence of bradycardia. Increases in heart rate to values greater than 120 beats per minute during a dive produce a progressive decrease in mean aortic pressure, which suggests that one major function of bradycardia is to reduce cardiac output, thus matching left ventricular output to the restricted vascular bed and decreased venous return associated with diving.
Targeting Toll-like receptors on dendritic cells modifies the TH2 response to peanut allergens in vitro

Background Delivery of allergens with bacterial adjuvants has been shown to be a successful immunotherapeutic strategy for food allergy treatment in animal models. How microbial signals, acting through the innate immune system, reshape ongoing allergic responses is poorly understood. Objective To investigate the contribution of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in the response to bacterial adjuvants, we designed an in vitro system to characterize the effect of heat-killed Escherichia coli vector (HKE) on peanut-induced responses of dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells. Methods Wild-type or TLR signaling–deficient bone marrow–derived DCs were pulsed with crude peanut extract (CPE) alone (50 μg/mL) in the presence of HKE (10 6 /mL). DC maturation was analyzed by means of flow cytometry. Treated DCs were cocultured with carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE)-labeled CD4 + T cells from sensitized mice. Cytokine production from DCs and T cells was measured by using Bioplex assays. Results Peanut-pulsed DCs induced the production of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, as well as IL-17 and IFN-γ, from primed T cells. Adding HKE to CPE-pulsed DCs resulted in a significant decrease in T H 2 cytokine production associated with an increase in IFN-γ levels and profound attenuation of T-cell proliferation. These effects were linked to HKE-induced TLR-dependent changes in DC reactivity to CPE, especially the production of polarizing cytokines, such as IL-12. Conclusions TLR signals modulate peanut-induced DC maturation in vitro , leading to changes in the T-cell response to peanut. These TLR effects must be confirmed in vivo and might constitute another alternative for allergen immunotherapies.
Dissociation energy of the PdO molecule

Abstract Mass spectrometric studies of the gaseous equilibrium Pd+O ⇌ PdO yield the dissociation energy D 0 o (PdO)=56±3 kcal mol −1 . This new value is significantly lower than one recommended in the most recent review, D 0 o (PdO)=90±20 kcal mol −1 , where an earlier value near 55 kcal mol −1 was rejected because of higher values ranging from 90 to 98 kcal mol −1 for neighboring metal monoxides. It is shown that the lower value reported here is consistent with the unique closed-shell structure of the Pd atom.
A refined analysis procedure for low temperature transient thermal measurements

We have employed a heat-pulse technique to study thermal properties at low temperatures. In the course of these studies we have identified a number of significant aspects of thermal transients which are not normally taken into account. These include finite-time effects for thermal diffusion, a modified equation in the presence of boundary scattering, and the role of thermal boundary resistance at the sample holder. We have used a steady-state, two-heater thermal conductivity measurement in conjunction with the heat-pulse studies to elucidate the latter effect. The result is that pulse measurements using a single thermometer can be used to determine both the boundary resistance and the heat capacity and thermal conductivity of a sample.
Program context antecedents of attitude toward radio commercials

A theoretical model of program context effects on attitude toward the ad (Aad) is developed and tested. Involvement in and liking for a program are shown to exert a positive influence on both claim and nonclaim components of Aad by enhancing commercial-processing motivation. Additional analyses replicate earlier findings that Aad mediates program influence on brand attitude and identify claim strength, appeal of nonclaim factors, and number of exposures as moderators of program effects on Aad.
Quasianalytical modal approach for computing Casimir interactions in periodic nanostructures

We present an almost fully analytical technique for computing Casimir interactions between periodic lamellar gratings based on a modal approach. Our method improves on previous work on Casimir modal approaches for nanostructures [Phys. Rev. A 82, 062111 (2010)] by using the exact form of the eigenvectors of such structures, and computing eigenvalues by solving numerically a simple transcendental equation. In some cases eigenvalues can be solved for exactly, such as the zero-frequency limit of gratings modeled by a Drude permittivity. Our technique also allows us to predict analytically the behavior of the Casimir interaction in limiting cases, such as the large-separation asymptotics. The method can be generalized to more complex grating structures and may provide a deeper understanding of the geometry-composition-temperature interplay in Casimir forces between nanostructures.
Developing Markov chain models for road surface simulation

Chassis loads and vehicle handling are primarily impacted by the road surface over which a vehicle is traversing. By accurately measuring the geometries of road surfaces, one can generate computer models of these surfaces that will allow more accurate predictions of the loads introduced to various vehicle components. However, the logistics and computational power necessary to handle such large data files makes this problem a difficult one to resolve, especially when vehicle design deadlines are impending. This work aims to improve this process by developing Markov Chain models by which all relevant characteristics of road surface geometries will be represented in the model. This will reduce the logistical difficulties that are presented when attempting to collect data and run a simulation using large data sets of individual roads. Models will be generated primarily from measured road profiles of highways in the United States. Any synthetic road realized from a particular model is representative of all profiles in the set from which the model was derived. Realizations of any length can then be generated allowing efficient simulation and timely information about chassis loads that can be used to make better informed design decisions, more quickly.
Brain mechanisms in problem solving and intelligence: A replication and extension

Abstract Anderson (1993, 1995) recently reported the extraction of a general intelligence (g) factor from a battery of tests administered to laboratory rats, conflicting with historical evidence and our more recent study of rat problem-solving behavior ( Thompson, Crinella, & Yu, 1990) . Anderson's findings are most likely due to use of an outbred strain, whereas we and others used inbred rats. However, it has been suggested that these unique findings may be due to Anderson's use of a more g-loaded test battery. We tested this hypothesis by analyzing the performance of 120 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats on seven laboratory tests, selected for diversity and g saturation. At 21 to 23 days of age, 96 of the animals were bilaterally lesioned in one of 48 brain sites, and 24 remained unlesioned. Testing began at 42 to 45 days of age. Analysis of data from the 24 unlesioned animals showed no evidence of a g factor. When data from unlesioned and lesioned animals were combined, uniformly positive correlations were obtained, and an unrotated first principal component accounted for 34% of the variance. This component had psychometric properties analogous to g factors extracted from human test batteries. The results support our contention that the disparity between Anderson's findings and ours are due to strain differences, and not psychometric properties of the respective test batteries. The results also show that the g loading of a test is directly related to the number of brain structures required to mediate its performance—biological support for the view that tests with higher g loadings sample a proportionately greater number of elementary processes than tests with lower g loadings. Because the psychometric g factor is sensitive to the widest array of brain lesions, it may be the best measure for detecting neuropsychological deficit irrespective of lesion location.
Chemotherapy Regimens in Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Recent Randomized Trials

Abstract Since the 1980s, cisplatin therapy for advanced non—small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has shown improvement in patient outcome with respect to overall survival. In the past decade, several new agents, such as the taxanes (paclitaxel and docetaxel), gemcitabine, vinorelbine, and irinotecan, have also shown promising singleagent efficacy in the treatment of advanced NSCLC. Superior efficacy was observed when these 5 agents were used in combination with cisplatin as compared to cisplatin alone for treatment of patients with NSCLC. The toxicity profiles of these 5 agents were found to be largely nonoverlapping with cisplatin. The results of recent randomized trials with different cisplatin-based chemotherapy regimens have shown that platinumbased therapy is still the mainstay for treatment of NSCLC; however, it appears that a chemotherapy efficacy plateau has been reached. Moreover, it has also been shown that for patients unable to tolerate cisplatin, nonplatinum doublets consisting of gemcitabine with either taxanes or vinorelbine are equivalent in efficacy and can be alternatives for first-line treatment of advanced NSCLC. Thus, the development of new and novel strategies is essential for treatment of NSCLC patients. Ongoing trials with vaccines, signal transduction modulators, antiangiogenic agents, and gene therapy in combination with chemotherapy will determine whether there is improvement in efficacy when compared to chemotherapy alone.
An Exploratory Study of Preferred Tree Form

Two computer-generated tree icons plus one icon copied from a nursery catalog were designed with five variations each in canopy size, trunk height, and trunk width. Seven classes of students select...
Rule of law v. rule of man: The search for the golden zigzag between conflicting fundamental values

Although most theorists from Aristotle to K. Culp Davis have recognized the need for law and discretion in any government, there has been very little analysis of the values protected by rule of law or the values preserved by rule of man (discretion). Nor has there been a systematic analysis of the relationship between these values. This article suggests that the law/discretion conflict is an essential and potentially productive conflict because both law and discretion protect fundamental, but limited, values which are essential for achievement of justice. Therefore, it is of the essence to understand the values underlying both law and discretion.
The shell structure of Ptychodesma (Cyrtodontidae; Bivalvia) and its bearing on the evolution of the Pteriomorphia

Observations of the hinge structure of the Middle Devonian species Ptychodesma knappianum Hall and Whitfield 1872 confirm the cyrtodontid affinities of this once problematic genus. The shell microstructure of P. knappianum supports Douville’s (1913) hypothesis concerning the ancestral nature of nacreous shell microstructure in the Bivalvia, and suggests further that modern arcoids and pterioids evolved from nacro-prismatic cyrtodontid ancestors. The Arcoida generally retained a rigid sub-periostracal shell margin and consequently evolved rigid crossed microstructure and a strong dentition to effect proper guidance of the shell margins upon closure. In contrast, the early Pterioida evolved a more prominent flexible outer prismatic layer to assist effective closure along the shell margins, and they retained nacreous microstructure as an adaptation for shell durability.
Neutron and X-ray diffraction studies and cohesive interface model of the fatigue crack deformation behavior

The crack-tip deformation behavior during a single overload, fatigue test of ferritic stainless steel, and Ni-based HAYNES 230 superalloy is studied at different structural levels using (1) neutron-diffraction, from which both the elastic-lattice strain and volume-averaged total dislocation densities are obtained, (2) polychromatic X-ray microdiffraction to probe the geometrically necessary dislocations and boundaries distribution, and (3) an irreversible and hysteretic cohesive interface model which has been implemented into a finite element framework to simulate the stress/strain evolution near the fatigue crack tip. Neutron strain measurements and finite element simulations are in qualitative agreement on the macroscopic length scale. Large plastic deformation induced by the overload and the resulting compressive residual strains are observed in front of the crack tip after the overload, and are the principal reason for the fatigue-crack-growth retardation. Strong strain gradients surrounding the crack...
Metabolizable Energy Values and Coefficients of Digestibility for Protein and Fat of Starfish Meal and Starfish Meal Combined with Fish Meal

Abstract SEVERAL experiments have been conducted in the past to determine the practical value of starfish meal and starfish meal replacing part of fish meal using growth as a criterion of measurement, Bird (1944), Morse et al. (1944), Whitson and Titus (1946), Stuart and Hart (1946), Ringrose (1946), Heuser and McGinnis (1946), and Levin et al. (1960). However, no experiments have been reported on the determined metabolizable energy or digestibility values of starfish meal or combinations of starfish meal and fish meal. This paper presents the results of an experiment which was conducted to determine the metabolizable energy and coefficients of digestibility of the protein and fat in starfish meal and starfish meal combined with fish meal (1:3). The metabolizable energy and coefficients of digestibility of the protein and fat of the fish meal used in this experiment were determined in a previous experiment using the same technique employed in this…
Demo: VisualComm - new robust channel of file transfer in mobile communications

There is a lack of method to communicate wirelessly without underlying networking infrastructure. We adopt the concept of camera-LCD communication and proposed this VisualComm system, a channel to communicate wirelessly through transmission and reception of a QR-code stream. VisualComm implements a series of techniques to overcome big challenges of frame missing, perspective distortion and viewing angle issue. In this demo, we show our VisualComm system can achieve real-time wireless file transfer with a reasonable bandwidth (of hundreds of Kbps) and good robustness.
Effects of Bird Age, Density, and Molt on Behavioral Profiles of Two Commercial Layer Strains in Cages

Two commercial strains, Hy-Line W-36 and DeKalb XL, were moved to a laying house at 18 wk of age. They were housed 6 hens/layer cage at 2 densities (361 and 482 cm2/bird) with 2 replications each per strain/density combination. The high-density treatment contained 24 hens/replication and the low-density treatment contained 18 hens/replication for a total of 168 hens. Production parameters were measured during the first egg production cycle, the molt period, and the first 4 wk of the second lay cycle (20 to 68 wk of age). Behavioral observations were taken during 2 consecutive d at 26, 34, 43, 51, 62, 64, and 68 wk of age to examine behavioral patterns. Modified Hansen's tests were conducted concurrently to provide indication of the fearfulness levels of hens at the various stages of production. The production characteristics were similar for both strains. The hens kept at the higher density had lower (P < 0.01) hen-day production and (P < 0.05) daily egg mass. Appetitive behaviors were not affected by strain or density but were affected by the age of the hen and by molting. During the molt, feeding and drinking behavioral acts were fewer (P < 0.05) at 0.018 and 0.013 acts per bird/min, respectively, and standing behavior was highest. The results indicated that the frequencies of pecking inedible objects during the molt period were similar to the frequencies at 26 and 34 wk. Hens performed more acts of standing, and crouching and had lower frequency of movement during the molt. Those kept at a low density performed more movement acts. Feather pecking decreased as hens aged and increased when they molted but was not affected by strain or density. The frequency of aggression and submissive acts was significantly lower during the molt period. Behaviors were affected by strain, density, bird age, and molting; however, the patterns and number of aggressive acts did not increase to compromise the welfare status of the hens. Behaviors during the molt appeared consistent with mechanisms for conservation of body reserves.
Preinjury beta blockers are associated with increased mortality in geriatric trauma patients.

Introduction: Beta-blockade decreases mortality and morbidity in selected older patient populations undergoing noncardiac general surgery. We hypothesized that preinjury beta blockade would increase mortality in geriatric trauma patients, given beta-blockers inhibit patient's physiologic responses to hypovolemic shock. Methods: Patients older than 65 years admitted to a level I trauma center were identified by the trauma registry. Medical records were reviewed for demographic and injury information. Preinjury beta blockade was determined by review of nurse and pharmacy admission histories. Logistic regression was used to determine whether there was any correlation between mortality and the use of preinjury beta blockers. Separate models were developed based on the presence or the absence of head injury. Results: Of the 1,598 patients older than 65 years admitted between 1996 and 2006, 1,479 met inclusion criteria. Primary reason for exclusion was lack of documentation. Two hundred seventy-three patients were taking beta blockers before their trauma, and 14.7% died before discharge. Mortality in patients not taking beta blockers was 13.4%. Mortality in patients with head injury was 25.9%, significantly associated with warfarin use (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.3-4.8). In patients without head injury, preinjury beta blockade had a significant association with mortality (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1-4.3). Conclusions: Many factors associated with mortality in elderly trauma patients are similar to the younger patient population. Unique to this population are increased comorbidities and use of prescription medications. Beta blockers, one of these common medications, are associated with increased mortality in the elderly.
Death of a Blow-up Doll

I cried during a scene from Lars and the Real Girl, a dark comedy about an unconventional man and his relationship with an inflatable sex doll. The tears started pouring as the doll was rushed to t...
Chronic central administration of valproic acid: Increased pro-survival phospho-proteins and growth cone associated proteins with no behavioral pathology

Valproic acid (VPA) is the most widely prescribed antiepileptic drug due to its ability to treat a broad spectrum of seizure types. However, potential complications of this drug include anticonvulsant polytherapy metabolism, organ toxicity and teratogenicity which limit its use in a variety of epilepsy patients. Direct delivery of VPA intracerebroventricularly (ICV) could circumvent the toxic effects normally seen with the oral route of administration. An additional potential benefit would be significantly reduced dosing while achieving high brain concentrations. Epileptogenic tissue from patients with intractable seizures has shown significant cell death which may be mitigated by maximizing cerebral VPA exposure. Here we show ICV administration of VPA localized to the periventricular zone increased pro-survival phospho-proteins (pAkt(Ser473), pAkt(Thr308), pGSK3β(Ser9), pErk1/2(Thr202/Tyr204)) and growth cone associated proteins (2G13p, GAP43) in a whole animal system. No significant changes in DCX, NeuN, synaptotagmin, and synaptophysin were detected. Assessment of possible behavioral alterations in rats receiving chronic central infusions of VPA was performed with the open field and elevated plus mazes. Neither paradigm revealed any detrimental effects of the drug infusion process.
Foraging behavior of Campoletis sonorensis in response to Heliothis virescens and cotton plants

Wind tunnel flight behavior of inexperienced female Campoletis sonorensis (Cameron) (Hymenoptera; Ichneumonidae) in response to its larval host Heliothis virescens (F.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) feeding on the host plant cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is described. The flight behavioral sequence was determined by quantification of frequencies of observed behaviors and probabilities of first-order behavioral transitions. Comparison of inexperienced C. sonorensis flights to undamaged and damaged cotton indicated that stimuli from undamaged plants alone are adequate to elicit the complete flight behavioral sequence observed in response to H. virescens feeding on cotton. Parasitoid foraging behavior was also analyzed after landing on the stimulus. This behavior appeared to be random in its initial stages, but became sequential after location of evidence of a host. Analysis of foraging on undamaged and 3 treatments of damaged cotton resulted in the determination that parasitoids tend to remain on damaged plants longer than undamaged plants although no significant difference was detected. C. sonorensis spent a greater percentage of their time foraging on host damaged plants than on undamaged plants. Resume Influence de la presence d'Heliothis virescens et de pieds de colon sur le comportement de prospection de C. sonorensis Les comportements d'evaluation de l'effectif d'hotes potentiels et de la position des hotes par C. sonorensis (Hymeno.: Ichneumonidae) ont ete quantifies pour determiner les sequences significatives des evenements comportementaux. La localisation de la colonie potentielle d'hotes est apparue comme une sequence reguliere des evenements comportementaux. Une fois que le parasitoide a localise une colonie potentielle, on a constate que la recherche au hasard des hotes se poursuit jusqu'a ce qu'il ait la demonstration qu'il s'agit d'une plante attaquee. La localisation par le parasitoide d'un hote certain a constitue une autre sequence reguliere des evenements comportementaux terminant la localisation de l'hote. L'influence de pieds de colon intacts, de pieds abimes mecaniquement et de pieds occupes par des chenilles du 3eme stade de l'hote et de plantes dont les chenilles ont ete retirees juste avant l'experience a ete determinee en modifiant la composition du complexe hote/plante. Des femelles naives de C. sonorensis ont montre en presence de pieds de coton intacts apparemment toutes les sequences comportementales de vol impliquees dans la localisation d'une colonie potentielle d'hotes. Une fois que le parasitoide a atteint la colonie potentielle d'hotes, la presence de degâts de l'hote n'a pas modifie le temps passe sur la plante, mais a modifie le temps consacre a la prospection.
Extremely wideband signal shaping using one- and two-dimensional nonuniform nonlinear transmission lines

We propose a class of electrical circuits for extremely wideband (EWB) signal shaping. A one-dimensional, nonlinear, nonuniform transmission line is proposed for narrow pulse generation. A two-dimensional transmission lattice is proposed for EWB signal combining. Model equations for the circuits are derived. Theoretical and numerical solutions of the model equations are presented, showing that the circuits can be used for the desired application. The procedure by which the circuits are designed exemplifies a modern, mathematical design methodology for EWB circuits.
The tectonic and volcanic history of Dione

Abstract The tectonic and volcanic modifications of Dione are described and interpreted. It is proposed that after the formation of a brittle outer shell, but before the end of heavy meteoritic bombardment, global expansion due to radionuclide heating (and perhaps a loss of oblateness due to tidal despinning and orbital recession) produced a global system of lineaments. An NH 3 · H 2 O melt was produced and “erupted” on the surface to form plains units. Cooling of the interior (or a phase change) led to horizontal compression in the surface. Compression of a thick deposit of plains material, possibly overlying a decollement surface, is proposed to explain cratered-plains ridges developed as thrust or high-angle reverse faults. Following formation of ridges and smooth plains, the surface experienced light cratering.
Arctic Ocean Ice and Climate: Perspectives on a Century of Polar Research

The Arctic Ocean ice-climate system has attracted scientific attention since the early 19th century, but systematic research awaited the First IPY and its successors, and the stimulus they provided. These contributions are reviewed and attention is then focused on our present understanding of surface energy exchanges on the Arctic ice. The complexities introduced by snow cover, summer melt ponds, and polynyi are examined, drawing upon Russian as well as Western sources. Large-scale ice-climate interactions are discussed for seasonal and longer time scales and potential human-induced impacts on the Arctic ice regime are noted. Although ice anomalies are pronounced on a regional scale, in response to atmospheric circulation patterns, there are also strong correlations between high-latitude temperature trends and total ice area over at least the past 30 years.
On the linear combination of normal and Laplace random variables

The exact distribution of the linear combination ?X+βY is derived when X and Y are normal and Laplace random variables distributed independently of each other. A program in MAPLE is provided to compute the associated percentage points.
Purification of berry flavonol glycosides by long-bed gel permeation chromatography.

Abstract While Sephadex LH-20 gel is frequently employed as a stationary phase during pre-separations and in open column chromatography systems, its separation power in long-bed gel permeation chromatography (GPC) applications is much less prevalent. Aimed at the characterization of bioactive constituents, a long-bed GPC protocol was established for lingonberry juice concentrate. The method included pre-fractionation over HP-20 resin to eliminate sugars and organic acids as well as a major part of other predominant berry flavonoids (anthocyanins, flavan-3-ols and proanthocyanidins), prior to the elution of the fraction containing 10% (w/w) of quercetin glycosides (QGs). Subsequently, seven major QGs were purified using a 10-m Sephadex LH-20 system and isocratic elution with methanol. The total mass recovery was 99.3 ± 1.4%, after eluting the highly-retained compounds from the employed pre-column with 70% acetone. Injecting 1070 mg per run, the yield of purified QGs ranged from 2 to 6 mg per collected single fraction. The LC–UV/PDA purities of isolated Q-3-O-α-rhamnoside and Q-3-O-β-galactoside were 82 and 94 area% at 250 nm, while the three Q-pentosides showed purities of 59, 30, and 57 area%. By comparison, purity assessment of these isolates by quantitative 1H NMR (total integral and modified 100% method) led to significantly lower purities of 70 and 52% for Q-rha and Q-gal and 38, 25 and 46% for Q-pentosides, respectively. This can be explained by the presence of hidden residual complexity (RC), which is revealed by the quantitative NMR method. This finding has potentially broader implication as it reveals an unexpected degree of RC in GPC fractions. Despite remarkable separation power for congeneric flavonoids, long-bed GPC on Sephadex LH-20 produces materials, which require careful analysis of purity before interpreting bioassay results.
New penstemons (scrophulariaceae) from the intermountain region

Four new species,Penstemon janishiae,P. barnebyi,P. mucronatus andP. patricus, and three new varieties,P. dolius var.duchesnensis. P. angustifolius var. vernalensis andP. acuminatus var.latebracteatus, all from the Intermountain Region, are described, illustrated and mapped, and relationships with next of kin are discussed.
Are investment bankers good for acquisition premiums

Abstract Since the 1980s, the number of acquisition deals has increased as has the use of investment bankers. Among their many strategic and financial advisory roles, investment bankers negotiate acquisition premiums. Studies have found support for agency conflicts between acquirers and their bankers, resulting in bankers being associated with acquirers' payments of higher acquisition premiums. This study investigates the transaction-specific attributes under which acquirers' bankers are associated with greater acquisition premiums and whether bankers' first-tier status attenuates the premium paid by acquirers when they use bankers. The study examines a sample of 481 acquisitions completed between 1988 and 1998 and finds that the presence of acquirers' bankers along with transaction-specific attributes can influence acquisition premiums.
Multiphase mixture model fragmentation solutions for self similar jet flows

Particulate fragmentation in jets is used as a model problem to study the issue of size class convergence associated with the multiphase continuum approach to fragmentation modeling. A mixture formulation and highly idealized fragmentation and turbulence models are used. Representative predictions based on both closed form and numerical solutions are presented graphically. It is found to be possible to achieve size class convergence for moderate numbers of size classes under a variety of circumstances, suggesting that the multiphase continuum approach is a practical one.
How Can Physician's Knowledge Be Activated to Provide Better Healthcare? Explaining Electronic Health Record Adaptation by Physicians

Despite the rising costs of healthcare and falling quality of care, the integration of EHR (Electronic Health Records) in supporting collaboration to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare remains a challenge. It appears that the physicians are at the center of this bottleneck. The literature suggests that the reasons for the limited use relate to policy, financial and usability considerations, but it does not provide an understanding of reasons for physicians' limited interaction and adaptation of EHR. Following an analysis of qualitative data, collected in a case study at a hospital using interviews, this research shows how a collaborative technology architecture can enable the physicians to better interact with their partners using the E.H.R technology for the purpose of improving healthcare provision.
Observations and Modeling of Profile Soil Water Storage above a Shallow Water Table

The storage capacity of a soil profile (soil water storage capacity [SWSC]) is the depth of water required to raise a shallow water table to the land surface. The concept of SWSC is fundamental to many hydrological processes, including surface runoff by saturation excess, expansion, and contraction of wetlands, and estimation of the length of an overland flow plane. A model is introduced and tested to estimate SWSC using simultaneous observations of shallow water table fluctuations and soil moisture in a shallow, sandy soil (hyperthermic Aeric Alaquods). The water table at the selected site fluctuated between a shallow depth and the land surface during the summer, allowing frequent observation of surface inundation and profile storage. An equation of the form SWSC = Ad B + Cd + D adequately described the variability of SWSC with d, depth to the water table. It is shown that parameters A, B, C, and D are easily derived from basic physical properties of the soil horizons, including porosity and water retention. The SWSC can be significantly limited by the capillary fringe above the water table, encapsulated air (the volume of air trapped under positive pressure beneath the water table), or the presence of a clay pan at shallow soil depths. The capillary fringe had some influence on SWSC in this sandy soil, but encapsulated air as high as 11.0% of the soil volume was observed at the site. Encapsulated air reduced the available soil storage and resulted in a rapid rise in water table. Ignoring encapsulated air significantly overestimated profile storage. Storage results including and excluding air encapsulation were compared as a function of water table depth.
NEBULIZED NITROPRUSSIDE (Neb-NP) SELECTIVELY REDUCES PULMONARY HYPERTENSION IN PIGLETS -- BUT THE MAGNITUDE VARIES WITH THE ETIOLOGY. † 2026

NEBULIZED NITROPRUSSIDE (Neb-NP) SELECTIVELY REDUCES PULMONARY HYPERTENSION IN PIGLETS -- BUT THE MAGNITUDE VARIES WITH THE ETIOLOGY. † 2026
A female preponderance for chemically induced lupus in SJL/J mice

Both spontaneous and chemically induced rodent models of autoimmune nephritis and autoantibody production have been explored to understand mechanisms involved in human systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). While it has been known for decades that women are more susceptible than men to SLE, mechanisms underlying this female preponderance remain unclear. One chemically induced model involves injection of hydrocarbon oils such as pristane into otherwise normal mouse strains, which results in the development of autoantibodies and inflammation in organs such as kidney and liver. It is unknown whether lupus-like disease induced by chemicals would exhibit a sex bias in disease susceptibility. Here, we show that SJL/J female mice injected with pristane display greater mortality, kidney disease, serum anti-nuclear and anti-dsDNA antibodies than their male siblings. This is the first evidence that a female sex bias exists in a chemically induced lupus model.
Containerless liquid to solid nucleation pathways in two representative grades of commercially available zirconium

Experimental measurements were conducted to determine the solid metal nucleation pathways of radiatively cooling, molten zirconium spheres of two different commercially available purity grades in a high-vacuum, high-temperature electrostatic levitator. The ensemble distribution of maximum undercooling temperatures was interpreted using Poisson statistics to determine the temperature dependence of the solid metal nucleation rate. For a sample of nominally 99.95% pure zirconium, the results are consistent with heterogeneous solid metal nucleation either on static catalyst particles at least approx. 30 nm diameter or on a surface coating. For a sample of nominally 99% pure zirconium, however, it appears that heterogeneous solid metal nucleation occurred either on a polydispersion of approx. 10 nm (mean diameter) static catalyst particles or on dynamic catalyst particles that precipitated from a solution that became supersaturated as the melt cooled.
Visual development: Neural basis and new assessment methods.

The strongest evidence for beneficial effects of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCPUFA) supplementation comes from measures of visual development. In particular, two measures of visual function, the electroretinogram (ERG) and grating acuity, have provided the primary basis for the addition of LCPUFA to infant formulas. However, the neural mechanisms underlying dietary effects on these visual functions are not well understood. Furthermore, the influence of dietary LCPUFA on other aspects of visual development is largely unknown. Additional measures of visual function would help to clarify the extent and nature of the effects of LCPUFA on the developing visual system, and several new methods promise to provide more detailed information about the sites of these effects. A number of recent reviews have described methods for visual assessment and the effects of infant LCPUFA supplementation on visual development. Therefore, the following review will emphasize newer developments in infant visual assessment and in understanding the neural mechanisms that may underlie the effects of LCPUFA.
Penicillium viridicatum mycotoxicosis in the rat. III. Hepatic and gastric lesions.

Abstract Hepatic and gastric lesions developed in rats fed grain cultures and fungal mats of Penicillium viridicatum. In the present experiment, the progression of hepatic changes was followed in rats fed a rice culture of the fungus at a dietary concentration of 25%. Initial lesions consisted of oedema of the portal areas and pericholangitis and were followed by hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the biliary epithelium, periductal fibrosis and focal areas of hepatic cell necrosis. Later lesions were necrotizing cholangitis, stenosis and obliteration of biliary ducts. A severe necrotizing cholangiohepatitis developed in rats fed fungal mats of P. viridicatum. Gastric erosions occurred in the fundic mucosa and some rats developed a necrotizing cellulitis of the gastric submucosa apparently unreleated to the erosions.